Anika's Polka Dottery

Trendy Tots #5: 9 months old!!

2012-02-02T16:35:00.005-06:00

I'm joining the Trendy Tots Party on A Real-Life Housewife's Blog this week. Here are the boys' 9 month pictures! It's hard to believe they are 3/4 of a year old already!

I am in love with their argyle sweaters from The Children's Place! Their jeans are lined with flannel and are from Old Navy and their black velcro shoes are from Babies R Us.

And here are their individual shots...

Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day!

~Anika

Surgery Update

2012-01-29T18:21:00.004-06:00

We are thrilled to say that we are home and everything went wonderfully!

We didn't hit rush hour traffic on the way to the hospital.
Ezra fell asleep during pre-op so he wasn't screaming from hunger pains even though surgery was delayed about 45 minutes.
The hospital staff was amazing!
Surgery took WAY longer than we thought it would, but they were able to keep the facial nerve completely intact! His surgeon said it was quite a mess in there.
The incision is shorter than I anticipated it would be.
Within hours after surgery, Ezra was a happy guy!
We realized how truly blessed we were after seeing other families dealing with much more challenging issues.
Ezra had very little pain after surgery. We didn't even have to get a prescription for pain meds when we left the hospital.
They were able to remove his drainage tube before we left so we don't have to deal with it at home or make an extra trip back to the hospital this week to have it removed.
So far, he doesn't rub or scratch at the incision so we don't have to keep the splints on his arms.

Here's a post-op picture...Steri-strips, left over marking pen, some swelling and a little bruising

Happy reading a book with Daddy and Ashton

Crawling all over the house with his little smirk! You can barely tell anything was done from this angle.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers for Ezra, our family and the doctors. We felt them all - especially during the extra 90 minutes of surgery when we were anxiously waiting to hear from the doctor. Keep praying that the rest of recovery goes just as well!

~Anika

Atypical Mycobacterial Infection

2012-01-20T16:05:00.003-06:00

Our little Ezra is way to cool for your run-of-the-mill ear infection or any other kind of typical childhood illness! Somehow, he managed to contract an Atypical Mycobacterial Infection. What's that?? Well, it's something you get from drinking unpasteurized milk (which Ezra hasn't) or from eating bird poop!! The infection has an incubation period, so that means he contracted it when he was 3-4 months old...not sure how he managed to get into bird poop at that age!

See the red lump on his jaw line? It just started turning red last week (which is the normal course of the infection) and it doesn't bother him at all; he doesn't poke at it and it doesn't hurt him when we touch it.

This is the short version of how we figured out what he had...

On November 28th, I noticed a lump on his jaw line and instantly freaked out. Lump=Cancer in my brain! The next morning I called to make an appointment with his pediatrician. Unfortunately, he wasn't in that day so we had to see a different doctor...I won't go into the details, but that was a BIG mistake!

After 3 weeks of appointments including an ultrasound, blood work, seeing a pediatric ENT, a CT Scan, a Fine Needle Biopsy, a TB skin test, and a chest x-ray, we FINALLY had our diagnosis. An Atypical Mycobacterial Infection. It requires surgery, but it is NOT life threatening and that was a huge answer to prayers.

We are lucky enough to live within an hour of several amazing Children's Hospitals and the one Ezra will have surgery at is brand spankin' new! His doctor/surgeon is awesome, and we are confident that he will do a fantastic job. The main risk to the surgery is damage to the facial nerve that runs along the jaw line. Ezra's doctor has never damaged the nerve, though! Surgery is in a week. Any prayers that you could say for a successful surgery and smooth recovery would be greatly appreciated! I will update you all as soon as possible after surgery.

Thanks a bunch!

~Anika

Our First Christmas in Pictures

2011-12-29T20:25:00.004-06:00

We hope your Christmas was Merry & Bright and that 2012 will be too!

~Anika

Halloween!!

2011-11-01T20:09:00.004-05:00

Guess what?? I got to dust off my craft supplies! I was able to do some sewing on Halloween costumes and make a couple gift tags for the ladies who take care of my boys while I'm working. Let's start with the gift tag. I only got pictures of one, but they were both the same. (Although the other was attached to a package of Heads & Tails Oreos instead...yummy!)

I was also able to put Ezra's scarecrow costume together. I had planned to make the lion as well, but we found this one and the price was right. Andrew's tin man costume never got finished, but it was good enough for some pictures. So here's our whole Wizard of Oz family.

And the boys in their pumpkins...

~Anika

6 month pictures

2011-10-27T21:27:00.009-05:00

I decided to take the boys 6 month pictures myself. I just love how you can capture so much personality in a single picture! Here's what I ended up with...

Enjoy your day!

~Anika

(Using my pictures is a violation of copyright laws.)

Quarterly Top 5 Photos

2011-10-03T18:31:00.006-05:00

I am participating in the Quarterly Top 5 Photo Party! Not that I need an excuse to share pictures of my boys, but if I did, this is it! And let's just say it was really difficult to only pick 5!

First up...

I just can't get enough of them in their sunglasses! They don't seem to mind wearing them either.

These silly little smiles get me every time.

Only 4 months old and they are already telling each other secrets!

Ready for a shopping trip. There is nothing better than two happy, smiley boys!

Not only do I love how cute they look in their new winter hats, but their personalities are totally captured in this picture as well!

It's amazing how much the boys have changed over a few months! I had so much fun looking back through all the pictures I have taken of them. Hope they brought a smile to your face too. If you want to join the party, you have until Wednesday, October 5th. Click on the button below for the details.

Enjoy the day!

~Anika

Someday

2011-09-21T19:57:00.003-05:00

Someday, I will get to craft again!

For now, these two take up every spare moment - but I am totally loving it!

~Anika

September?!

2011-08-23T05:47:00.005-05:00

I'm not sure where the days, weeks, and months have gone. When I started my maternity leave on April 1st, September was a long way off, but it's not anymore! Next week marks the start of another school year. I will be spending my days with 40 preschoolers - no, not all at once! The boys get to stay at home with a nanny 2 days a week and go to a neighbors house on the other 2 days. (I will admit to being quite jealous of Andrew - he has Fridays off so he gets to be home with them then.) I am excited to go back to teaching, but you can bet that when I get home from work I will be a baby hog!

Enjoy each day!

~Anika

New Little Bundle

2011-08-03T17:12:00.004-05:00

As I mentioned in my last post, my best friend has a new little bundle! Her daughter is absolutely adorable and I'm sure my boys will be fighting over her before we know it! Now that I know this card safely arrived in California, I thought I'd share it with you too.

And since I can't seem to write a post these days without adding a picture or two of my little bundles...here are a couple shots I caught this past weekend.

Ezra

Ashton

Happy Wednesday! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

You're too Kind

2011-07-27T09:22:00.005-05:00

This is a Thank You card I made using...

...you guessed it, more of the Tissue Paper Technique! This was also the first card I used Delightful Doilies on.

I also have to share a family picture we had taken a couple weeks ago.

It's so hard to get the boys to smile when we are outside, they are way to interested in looking around at everything to care about smiling! We took the pictures at our photographers farm and she had her 3 kiddos jumping around and waving burp rags in an attempt to get the boys to look towards the camera!

In other news, my best friend, (the one who surprised me by flying in from California when the boys were born) had her daughter yesterday! I wish I could be there to meet Miss Alexis! Congratulations, Kari and Jeff!

Enjoy the day!

~Anika

The boys at 13 weeks

2011-07-17T20:27:00.003-05:00

Last week, I was editing some pictures I had taken of the boys and I realized how fed up I was with my point and shoot camera. After a few days of telling Andrew how badly I wanted a new one, he broke down and we went shopping on Friday to pick one out. We settled on the Canon Rebel T3 and so far, we LOVE it! Even though we barely know how to use it, we are still getting some amazing pictures of the boys. Here are a few shots from today...

Ezra

Ashton

The weather here is brutal - hot and humid with no sign of a cool down in the near future. We have spent most of the weekend in our air conditioned house. Today, we needed something to do, so we decided it was time to bust out the pool we bought for the boys. We set it up in a shaded area of our back deck and got the boys changed into their adorable swim trunks for the first time.

They wouldn't flash us any of those adorable smiles, there was just too much to take in between being outside and in the pool, but they seemed to enjoy it! I have a feeling we will be spending more time out there in the coming days.

Hope you are finding ways to stay cool if you are in this heat wave too. Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Happy Together

2011-07-16T17:24:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post today to share a card I made for my best friend and her husband for their 5 year Wedding Anniversary.

Yup, that's more of the Tissue Paper Technique on the green strip with the Modern Basics stamps. (I can't stop using that technique, it's becoming an addiction!) I also used Color Couture Volume 4, Fancy Flourishes and some Rustic Jute Button Twine.

We had so much fun celebrating with Jeff & Kari on their hot & humid wedding day!

It sure is amazing how quickly 5 years can go by!

It's hot and sticky here this weekend too, so we are enjoying a couple low key days in the air conditioning with our boys. Hope you are having a fabulous weekend as well!

~Anika

Bea

2011-07-11T16:21:00.003-05:00

A little over a year ago, some of our good friends had a daughter and they named her Bea. Sadly, she had Trisomy 18 and her life on earth was short. She now lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known and loved her. A few days before her first birthday, her parents were at our house and her mom happened to look through one of my PaperCrafts magazines. A card made by Betsy Veldman featured a sentiment from the Papertrey Ink With Sympathy: Loss of Child stamp set. She wrote the sentiment on a Post-It. I had been trying to figure out what to get them in honor of Bea's birthday so as soon as they left, I got to work on this...

Sorry about the glare, I didn't have the time (or the patience) to take the frame apart and remove the glass for the pictures!

I used the tissue paper technique again, but this time I applied the tissue over some PTI & Basic Gray patterned papers. And since I don't own the PTI stamp set with the sentiment, I printed it onto cardstock instead. I used Raspberry Fizz ink and a stamp from Dot Spot to add some pink to some chipboard letters I had in my stash.

Enjoy the day!

~Anika

Summer Fun!

2011-06-29T13:39:00.003-05:00

I cannot believe how fast the weeks are flying by! Today, I'm lucky enough to have some help with the boys - a relative of mine has twin girls who live just a few blocks away and they came to play with the boys, giving me some time to craft and blog!

This past weekend we went to another wedding. I was so excited when we got the invitation - it was cream with black text and had a bright orange ribbon tied around it. I knew I had to make a coordinating card for the couple and this is what I came up with...

I used the Tissue Paper Technique that was featured in one of Papertrey Ink's Make It Monday challenges a few weeks ago. I L-O-V-E this technique and have used it on several projects since.

A few days ago, my friend Katie and I took our boys for a walk. Her little guy is almost a year old already and next summer when we go for walks, she will be needing a double stroller as well!

I snapped this picture of the boys yesterday while they were sitting in their Bumbo chairs. I love how it looks like Ashton is telling Ezra a great story. He's actually just yawning though!

It's beautiful here today! Looking and feeling like summer, I sure hope it lasts through the weekend so we can enjoy the outdoors on the long holiday weekend!

Enjoy the day!

~Anika

Celebrate!

2011-06-20T17:17:00.003-05:00

We had a very busy weekend...2 weddings and a graduation party! I managed to find time to make cards for each event, too! Here's the first one I have to share...

The smudge by the sentiment is from my camera lens. I guess I'd rather have it there instead of on the card itself, but it's still irritating me! I used the In Bloom impression plate on the Aqua Mist layer and wrapped the Vintage Cream card in Jute Button Twine. I am in love with this color combo!

And here is the family at my cousin Jeri's wedding! (Congrats Jeri & Seth!)

The boys were wonderful the entire day! Yes, they are usually good babies, but they were exceptionally good during the whole celebration! They slept through the ceremony, sat contently in their car seats while we at supper, and even tolerated being passed around until 11:00PM while we chatted with family and did a little dancing!

Enjoy the day!

~Anika

*All supplies are Papertrey Ink.

7 weeks!

2011-06-01T21:48:00.003-05:00

I will get around to posting cards again, but these days anything that I make is a last minute project that I give away before I have a chance to take a photo of it. You'd think I was a new mom to twins or something! ;)

Our boys are already 7 weeks old! They have each gained over 2 lbs already - that means when I carry them both in their car seats I'm lifting more than 45 lbs. I am going to have some major muscles! We are adjusting pretty well to life with children. I actually don't think things could go much smoother than they are! The days are flying by way to quickly so I am holding on to every moment knowing that September 1st will be here before I know it and I will have to go back to work.

The dryer just beeped at me (I hear that sound a lot these days!) so I best be going. I will leave you with a few pictures of the boys...

Ezra at 6 weeks - 9lbs, 12oz

Ashton at 6 weeks - 9lbs, 10oz

Trying out their sunglasses from Grandma Roxie!

Enjoy the day!

~Anika

Our Family

2011-04-22T12:26:00.003-05:00

All together at home after what seemed like the fastest - yet longest - week of my life!

The twins are here!

2011-04-16T16:55:00.003-05:00

Our twins arrived on April 14th - two sweet little boys!

L: Ashton Jay, 7lbs 3oz, 20 inches long R: Ezra Steven, 7lbs 13oz, 20.5 inches long.

I'll post more pictures and details once we are home.

~Anika

Less than 24 hours!

2011-04-13T09:03:00.003-05:00

With less than 24 hours until we get to meet our babies, I am attempting to finish packing and cleaning, but Andrew told me to take it easy today, so I'm mostly just lounging around, watching TV, and watching my belly wiggle all over the place! I'm going to miss that. I'm going to miss my belly and being pregnant. I'm not going to miss my swollen feet, ankles, and legs!

I managed to do a little something crafty yesterday. (That REALLY made my feet swell!)

We will be filling these containers with mini cookies for the the OB and Radiology departments as a thank you for taking such good care of us over the past nine months. Having always been a rather healthy person, my weekly ultrasounds and appointments over the past 7 weeks have made me feel like I should just bring my pillow and jammies with and live in the waiting room! The last container of cookies is for the hospital nurses...might as well suck up a bit to ensure good care from them during our stay - not that I'm at all worried about that! I also have paper cut to size with scor-tape already on the back so I can write a little thank you to attach to the lid before delivering them - I want to wait to write them so I can include the babies names.

Here's a close up of one.

And before I go, one last belly picture. This was taken last Thursday when I was 37 weeks along and the babies estimated weighted were 7lbs 6oz and 7lbs 5oz! It will be interesting to see how accurate they were.

Hope you have a fabulous Wednesday!

~Anika

I made it!!

2011-04-02T14:20:00.003-05:00

Since the beginning of this twin pregnancy journey, my goal was to work until April 1st - as long as I wasn't harming the babies or myself in doing so. Well, the weeks kept passing by, I kept working, and at 4:00 yesterday, I met my goal!! 36w1d, ZERO complications! I am still in disbelief that I have made it this far and that in 12 days (or less) these babies will be born!

A few weeks ago, we had maternity pictures taken and they turned out great! Here's a peek at one of my favorites.

This is my 35w picture.

We are feeling pretty ready, the nursery has come together and I *think* we have everything we need for them to come home.

Still on the hunt for the perfect bookshelf to put that lamp on.

We are also looking for a tiny side table to put next to the rocker, but it's certainly not a big deal if we don't find something before they are born. (The marks on the wall behind the cribs are reflections from the branch decal, a few of the leaves are mirrored.)

I am looking forward to a week and a half of relaxing. I was hoping to make a bunch of Thank You cards to have on hand during my time off before they come, but sitting at my craft table wrecks havoc on my swollen feet, ankles and legs so we'll see if I can manage to get any done.

Hope you are having a fabulous Saturday. Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Spring Break!

2011-03-17T07:33:00.003-05:00

It's Spring Break here and I am taking full advantage of that! I couldn't go anywhere warm this year, but it's been pretty nice out here anyway. I got to start the week with a massage (birthday present from my parents)...not sure what part I liked better, the actual massage or being able to lay on my stomach for 90 minutes!? Then my best friend, Kari, had given me a gift card to a spa for my birthday so I went for a pedicure on Tuesday. Now instead of plain old swollen feet, I have cute swollen feet!!

Amidst the pampering, I have been quite productive. Remember those quilts I started after Christmas? Well, as of yesterday, both tops are finished!! Woo-Hoo!! Now I just have to have them quilted and bind the edges!

Here are some close ups...

Not all of my corners meet this well, but why photograph a bad corner? It's actually a very forgiving quilt pattern, and unless you are looking for them, you don't even notice the wonky corners!

4 weeks or 28 days or 672 hours or 40,320 minutes...however you want to put it, that's how long we have until these babies arrive! You have a couple more weeks to vote in our gender poll if you haven't already.

I'm off to be a model today! My cousin is a hairstylist, and she is teaching some color classes and asked if I wanted to be her model...maybe I should have asked which class she was teaching before agreeing, hopefully it's not "Choosing the Right Shade of Purple 101" or something!! :)

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you have a great day!

~Anika

Baby Shower Thank You

2011-03-05T17:18:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow is our first Baby Shower so I decided I should whip up some Thank You cards today.

We have been working on the nursery over the past couple weeks. The cribs my dad built are amazing! Last weekend I found curtains and we bought car seats. Less than 6 weeks to go now! If you haven't voted in our gender poll, check out my previous post and cast your vote on the right side of my blog.

I have weekly ultrasounds now until they are born, here are a couple pictures from this weeks. They were so wiggly it was hard to get clear pictures, but they needed to wiggle to "pass" the test so I guess they were just being good "students"!

Baby A weighed in at 4lbs 7oz and is head down. Baby A spends most of his/her time kicking Baby B in the face...awesome, right?? I just hope it doesn't continue once they are born! :)

Baby B weighed in at 4lb 12oz and is breech. I was also a breech baby and my mom has told me many times how much it hurt to have my head in her ribs...I am quickly realizing what she meant! Baby B is getting good at blocking the kicks to the face with his/her fists.

My doctor told me I look better than many singleton mom's do at 32 weeks! She also told me that I probably won't get any stretch marks on my stomach at this point!! WOO-HOO!! Then she said that also means my skin will bounce back better since it isn't 'damaged'. I had come to terms with the idea of "Twin Skin" so the possibility of not having a stretch marked flap of skin was certainly exciting news!

Whether I end up with "Twin Skin" or not, we are so excited that April is almost here and that my pregnancy has been so easy. Hope you are having a great Saturday!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Kraft, Vintage Cream

Stamps: Baby Button Bits, Star Prints, A Little Argyle

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Hawaiian Shores, VersaMark

Other: Sweet Blush Twill Ribbon, Hawaiian Shores Button, Cream Button Twine, American Crafts ZING! Clear Embossing Powder

Boys, Girls or One of Each? What do you think?

2011-02-17T07:04:00.003-06:00

Today marks 8 weeks until we meet our babies! To say we are excited would be an understatement! We are thrilled that the day is quickly approaching! My best friend (who is also expecting) posted a gender poll on her blog and since my maternal instincts are really lacking in this department, I thought it would be fun to see what all of you think we're having. So, I have a dozen Old Wives Tales and a recent picture of my bump to help you decide!

Old Wives Tale: Heart Rate - If the baby’s heart rate is above 140 bpm, it is said that the baby will be a girl. If it is under 140 bpm, then it will be a boy.

Early on, both babies had heart rates in the high 160's, but by week 20 or so, they had dropped to the 140's. At our 30 week appointment yesterday, they were both at 135 bpm. With the differences here, you'll have to decide if you want to go by early heart rates or the more recent ones.

Old Wives Tale: Shape of Belly - If you are carrying high with a big, round belly, you are having a girl. If you are carrying low with a smaller belly that sticks straight out, it’s a boy.

You can judge for yourself by the picture, but I would definitely say that I am carrying low and that my bump sticks straight out - my husband says that you still can't tell I'm pregnant if you see me from behind, that would mean boys.

Old Wives Tale: Shape of Mom’s Face - When your face gets fuller and rounder when pregnant, it means you’re going to have a girl. If your face is long and narrow, it’s a boy.

I haven't noticed any changes to the shape of my face, so that means boys.

Old Wives Tale : Key Test - This test involves a key. If you pick up a key at the top (the roundest part), you are going to have a boy. If you pick up the key at the bottom (smallest part), you are going to have a girl. If you happen to grab the key in the middle, congrats, it’s twins!

So I had to leave this one in the mix because I always grab a key by the middle. :)

Old Wives Tale: Mayan Tale - The Mayan tale adds the mothers age at conception and the year of conception. If the result is a even number then mom is having a girl. If the result is an odd number then a boy is on the way!

26 + 2010 = 2036, so even = girls.

Old Wives Tale: Acne - If you have acne while pregnant, it’s a girl. It’s thought that acne during pregnancy is caused by the extra hormones.

I have definitely had crazy, acne prone skin throughout my pregnancy, so if this OWT holds true, it's girls.

Old Wives Tale: Cravings - People believe that if you are craving salty foods while pregnant, you can count on having a boy. If you crave sweets, fruit, and orange juice, you are having a little girl.

I rarely crave salty foods, but sweet things always sound good! (You may want to take into consideration the fact that I'm mostly Swedish and Norwegian before assuming this means I'm having girls!)

Old Wives Tale: Skin under Left Eye - The eye test is when a “V” or “branches” appear when you pull down the skin under your left eye. If you see a “V” or “branches” in the white part, you’re having a girl.

No "V" or "branches" to speak of, just one squiggly line, so this one points to boy.

Old Wives Tale: Dream of Gender of Baby - If you have dreams that you are having a boy, you will have a girl. If you dream about having a girl, it will be a boy. Dreams show the opposite of what you are having.

I had a dream that they were both girls, so according to this OWT, that means we will have boys.

Old Wives Tale: Side You Most Rest On - If a pregnant woman prefers to lay on her left side, she’s having a boy. If she prefers resting on her right side, she’s having a girl.

I always fall asleep on my right side. But when I'm laying on the couch watching TV, I lay on my left side.

Old Wives Tale: Morning Sickness - If you had a smooth pregnancy with no morning sickness, it’s a boy. If you were sick or felt really nauseous during your pregnancy, count on a girl.

I had NO Morning Sickness, so we'll go with boy on this one.

Old Wives Tale: Hair on Legs - If the hair on your legs has been growing at record speeds, you might be having a boy.

I think the growth rate of my leg hair has slowed down dramatically. Girls??

So what do you think?? Boys? Girls? A Boy and A Girl? Cast your vote at the top right hand side of my blog!

~Anika

PTI Anniversary Contest: Think Big Challenge

2011-02-12T14:00:00.004-06:00

Papertrey Ink is releasing large scale sentiments every month this year!! In honor of their big sentiments, the Anniversary Contest for the day is to make a project with something big on it. Find more details here.

I decided to make a big flower out of tissue paper. I folded a strip of tissue paper in half a few times until it fit under the Large Scallop Border die. Then I stamped an image from Damask Designs randomly on the tissue paper before rolling and scrunching it up to make the flower. I put a few stitches in the back to hold it all together and then added a button to the middle. I was hoping it would be a little bigger than it is and I suppose I could have added to it, but it's much bigger than any embellishment I normally put on a card, so I figure it works!

Hope you are enjoying your Saturday! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Hibiscus Burst

Patterned Paper: Soft Stone Bitty Dot

Stamps: Damask Designs, BB: Sheet Music

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, True Black

Other: Raspberry Fizz button, Tissue Paper, Floss

PTI Anniversary Contest: Button Challenge

2011-02-10T19:09:00.004-06:00

I love using buttons, but when Nichole's challenge said to use them in a 'creative way' I was a bit stumped. I decided to add the buttons to a polka dot background and here's what I came up with...

Quick and simple, but I kinda like it. Definitely something I will try again.

Hope you are having a great day!

~Anika

PTI Anniversary Color Challenge: Lisa's Colors

2011-02-09T20:22:00.003-06:00

Lisa's Color Scheme...

My take on it...

~Anika

PTI Anniversary Color Challenge: Heather's Colors

2011-02-09T20:20:00.002-06:00

Heather's color scheme...

My take on it...

~Anika

PTI Anniversary Color Challenge: Dawn's Colors

2011-02-09T20:07:00.002-06:00

Next up is Dawn's Color Scheme...

And here's my take on her colors...that red/pink combo was tricky for me!

~Anika

PTI Anniversary Color Challenge: Betsy's Colors

2011-02-09T20:00:00.003-06:00

I'm taking part in a few of PTI's Color Challenges tonight. First up is Betsy's color scheme...

Here is what I came up with using her color choices...

~Anika

Make It Monday #1: Go-To Sentiment Card, Take 2

2011-02-08T18:04:00.003-06:00

Since I was in need of a Valentine's Day card for my husband, I decided to give this Sentiment Technique another try. I couldn't decide what to do on the red background but I felt like it needed something, so I ended up using the same sentiments from the focal point in VersaMark ink to give it a more finished look.

There was just enough daylight left to try and get a decent outside picture, so even though it's FREEZING cold here, I swung open the front door, set up the black cardstock, plopped my card on it and quick snapped a picture before everything blew away! It's still not perfect, but way better than trying to find a spot in the house with good lighting.

Enjoy the evening!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Pure Poppy, True Black, Vintage Cream

Patterned Paper: Simple Valentine (I cut out the heart from one of the pieces.)

Stamps: Signature Greetings, Embellishments, Just the Ticket, Simple Sentiments, Delightful Dahlias, Damask Designs

Ink: True Black, Pure Poppy, VersaMark

Make It Monday #1: Go-To Sentiment Card

2011-02-07T17:59:00.003-06:00

For the Third Day of Papertrey Ink's Anniversary Celebration, they are kicking off their "Make It Monday" Series. For details, visit Nichole's blog. I am so in love with the idea of using several sentiments surrounding the same theme to create a card - I never seem to have the right image to fill space on a card, but I sure do have plenty of sentiments!

I went with a baby card for my first crack at this concept.

It was more challenging than I thought it would be to get all the sentiments arranged just right, but I had a lot of fun working on this card and will definitely be using this idea on cards in the future!

Hope you are having a fabulous day! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Berry Sorbet, Vintage Cream

Patterned Paper: It's Official, Bitty Box

Stamps: Baby Button Bits, Bitty Baby Blessings, Signature Greetings

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Dark Chocolate

Other: Rustic Jute Button Twine, Dark Chocolate Button, pink buttons from Spring Mix button collection, Small Scallop Border Die

PTI Anniversary Contest: Customer Favorites

2011-02-05T11:03:00.006-06:00

Papertrey Ink is celebrating their 4th Anniversary! Today, we were asked to post our favorite PTI project from the past year. You can find all the details for the contest (and see the AMAZING prize package) here.

I have several PTI cards that I love from the past year - it was really fun to look back through my pictures and see everything I have made. In the end, I had to go with this Kraft, Red, White & Polka Dot card. I just adore these colors together and you all know how much I love Polka Dots!

Hope you are all enjoying your Saturday!

~Anika

Been working on the nursery...

2011-01-31T20:34:00.003-06:00

Well, kind of! It's all cleaned out - except for the computer and desk since I haven't found a desk that will work in the new computer area yet. Last week, we found the changing table/dresser that we wanted on craigslist so we took a trip across the twin cities to pick it up...totally worth the long drive! Saturday we ended up at Babies R Us and I bought the changing pad and cover for it.

See those 2 boxes of diapers on the shelf? They will last us about 7 days! I'm really hoping to switch to cloth diapers once the babies weigh about 10 lbs.

My dad has been busy building cribs! On Saturday, he sent me a text message saying that all 8 sides were assembled! Now he is working on the finish. Can't wait to bring them to our house and put them all together! Dads are the best!!

Here he is working on one of the 'headboard' pieces, while mom 'supervises'!

Andrew's holding a completed 'footboard' (front side of the crib.)

And this is the pile of scraps!

Today I had my 28w Growth Scan. Both babies are looking great! Baby A weighs around 2lbs 13oz and Baby B is up to 3lbs. Both heartbeats were around 135-140. Baby B has also moved from being transverse (sideways) to being breech meaning I have a head under my ribs...I guess it's just payback since I was a breech baby and stuck my head under my mom's ribs!

With tomorrow being the start of PTI's Anniversary Month, I hoping for some challenges (and prizes) that will motivate me to head back to my craft table! Can't wait to see what all they have in store!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

12.31.10

2010-12-31T08:45:00.003-06:00

Are you ready to ring in the New Year tonight?? I have a lot of crafting to do before counting down to 2011, but I wanted to share a few things first. I have been busy making more birthday cards, this time for my Grandma's Birthday Calendar - thankfully we decided to celebrate Christmas on January 2nd with my mom's side which gave me more time to get her book in order and filled with cards! Here are just a couple that I have made. (I can't wait until I can take pictures outside again, it's so hard to get good lighting in my house.)

When I get bored with birthday cards, I switch to quilting. Here's a shot off all the fabric cut into strips just waiting to be stitched together. From the blue print to the first set of thin brown strips will be one quilt and from the green print to the second set of thin brown strips will be the other.

Yesterday, I managed to sew all the strips for one quilt together and get them cut into squares!! And even though it was late, I couldn't resist laying the squares out to see if I actually liked the fabrics we picked. Good News: I do!!

The agenda for today includes more birthday cards and a few anniversary ones as well and sewing the strips for the second quilt! Sometime this afternoon we will be heading down to some friends house to welcome 2011! I even bought myself a bottle of sparkling grape juice for the celebration!

Have a wonderful, safe and happy New Year's Eve! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

The post of Randomness

2010-12-28T18:50:00.004-06:00

I have several random things to share with you today. The first being the cards and gifts my students' made for their parents. We started out by making these cards, they always love using my Cuttlebug!

Then we stamped lunch bags, added a container of Hot Cocoa and topped it off with some candy canes and marshmallows that we dipped it chocolate. I think they turned out pretty cute and I hope the parents appreciate it!

Next up is the Birthday Calendar book I made my mom for Christmas. I just adore this cover which was inspired by the layout of a card Maile Belles did awhile back (if I'm remembering correctly).

Today I was able to go shopping with my best friend! All through high school we would make trips to the fabric store to pick out material for miscellaneous projects...garters and dresses for prom, dresses for a Madrigal Dinner, numerous altered shirts in support of our school's athletic teams, the list could go on and on! Now that she lives on the West Coast and I'm still in Wisconsin, our shopping adventures are few and far between, but today we were able to head back to the fabric store for baby quilt material! Here is what will **hopefully** turn into 2 beautiful baby quilts in the coming weeks...

I pre-washed it all when I got home and am in the process of pressing it so I can start cutting the strips and squares tomorrow. I figure if I don't get a good start on them before I head back to school next week, all I will have in April is a pile of fabric! I have a pretty easy pattern picked out so it should be pretty smooth sailing if I can manage to cut the pieces out without any mistakes!

Wish me luck!

Hope you are recovering from your Christmas celebrations and gearing up for the New Year!

~Anika

Winter in Wisconsin

2010-12-12T11:39:00.003-06:00

No card to share today, although I did make a bunch yesterday while watching the snow fall! We were told to expect a blizzard beginning Friday night and lasting through Saturday. So I managed to talk my husband into going for dinner Friday evening and finding a place to take our Christmas picture. (I had been putting it off, waiting for the baby bump to grow a bit more.) We took my brother in law along as our photographer. Here is the picture we ended up with...

(There is no way I would go out in short sleeves now, but it actually wasn't too bad at the time...but maybe that's just the pregnancy heat wave talking!)

Sure enough, we woke up Saturday morning to blowing and drifting snow that lasted all day! It was really hard to tell how much snow we were getting since we live on a relatively wide open hill where it blows all over the place. A few trucks in our neighborhood ventured out and this car made an attempt...but it was a huge fail!

It wasn't until this morning that we even attempted to go out in the mess! At about 9:30 we were still waiting for the city plow to come by when my dad came by. He had to plow a path on the road to get to our driveway. (Not sure why our street is last on the plow list...it's noon now and there is still no sign of the plow.)

Anyway, see that big bare spot on the driveway?? All the snow that was supposed to be there, blew up against our garage door instead!

Andrew and a neighbor worked on shoveling that while my dad took care of the rest of the driveway and I stayed warm and dry in the house! (At least I have a good excuse for not being out there this year!)

Now that we can actually drive out of our garage and down the road, we are headed out with my parents to a bakery for a Christmas Cookie Exchange. For $45, we get to sample about 30 kinds of cookies while sipping on Hot Cocoa and Cider, then we can pick 12 dozen of our favorites to take home! As much as I love to bake cookies this time of year, I don't really think this deal can be beat - especially since my kitchen won't need to be cleaned up afterwards!!

Enjoy your day!

~Anika

A Card and The Bump

2010-11-24T16:38:00.004-06:00

Where do the weeks go? I am finally back to blog world with a few things to share, so here we go...

A Birthday card using Color Couture that I made for my best friend last month.

And my bump at 17 weeks. At our last appointment Baby A's heartbeat was 160 and Baby B's was 150! So far, they aren't kicking me, but I can feel them move around quite a bit. I'm still pretty tired...no 2nd Trimester energy yet like everyone told me I would get, but that's okay.

Enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend. We are looking forward to celebrating with family tomorrow and doing some shopping, wrapping and decorating on Friday!!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Paper: Select White, Hawaiian Shores, Summer Sunrise Bitty Box, White A2 Envelope

Ink: Tea Dye Duo

Color Couture: Volume 6

Other: Dark Chocolate Satin Ribbon, Polka Dot 2 Impression Plate, A2 Envelope Die, Hawaiian Shores Button, Rustic Cream Twine

Giveaway Winners!

2010-10-31T13:55:00.003-05:00

Just a quick post to announce the winners of my 100th post giveaways...

Teresa (@ baseret.blogspot.com) is the winner of Papertrey Inks CHA Stamp Set - Four of a Kind

Amy (@ stamp-n-paradise.blogspot.com) is the winner of the PTI goodies

Congratulations! I'll be sending you both a PM on the PTI forum.

~Anika

100th Post & Giveaways!!!

2010-10-23T11:13:00.003-05:00

So I've finally made it to my 100th post! I'm getting some energy back now that I have officially entered 2nd Trimester and I feel like I'm in the swing of things at school. So hopefully, I can get back to blogging on a regular schedule!

A friend asked me to make a couple of card sets for her last week so I thought I'd share some of them for this post. With all the Christmas inspiration going on at PTI, I was in the mood to pull out my Christmas sets and this is what I came up with...

Now for the Giveaways. I have the CHA 2010 Exclusive set, Four of a Kind, up for grabs and for those of you who already have that set I am putting together a little box of some PTI things...ribbons, die cuts, buttons, etc...

To win you need to be a follower of my blog and leave a comment on this post. Be sure to let me know if you want the stamp set or the box of PTI stuff in case you win! (I will ship internationally as well.) I will draw 2 winners on Saturday, October 30th. Good Luck!!

~Anika

Double the Pleasure, Double the Fun!

2010-09-26T20:15:00.003-05:00

I have a really good excuse for not blogging the past few weeks...We are expecting in April! And it's twins! We just shared the news with our families and friends this weekend. It's been so hard to keep it a secret, especially since we found out there were 2 little beans!

Tomorrow I will be sharing the news with my coworkers and wanted to do it in a creative way, so I bought a bunch of little packs of DoubleMint Gum and attached a little poem to it. I'm planning to just leave it in the staff work room in the morning and listen for the shrieks and squeals from my classroom that's just across the hall and down one room. (I work with some very excitable people!)

So here's the little basket all ready to go.

And here's a close up of the poem.

I hope to be back to my perky, crafty, blogging self soon, but I have a feeling that it might be a couple more weeks before I get my energy back. Keep an eye out though, because this is post number 99, meaning the next post is my 100th post and I will have a giveaway!

Have a great week!

~Anika

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-06T09:49:00.003-05:00

What a weekend it's been! My husband was in his cousin's wedding on Saturday - which meant we had rehearsal on Friday evening, a full day Saturday, and breakfast and gift opening yesterday morning. Then last night - after I took a nap - we had some friends over for supper. They are missionaries at a school in Africa and have been gone for the past 4 years. It was fun to catch up with them and see how much their 5 children have grown!

Here's a picture of the family at the wedding reception...

BIL's Girlfriend, BIL, SIL, Me, Andrew, MIL, FIL

Now onto a card...

I just love this card and the best part is it was so incredibly easy to put together! Stamped the background, added some ribbon, and adhered a Color Couture Embellishment.

Hope you are enjoying your Labor Day weekend! We are spending today recovering and then heading to a cook out at some friend's house before heading back to work tomorrow. And speaking of work, tomorrow is Andrew's first day at his new job!! Yeah!

Thanks for stopping by and listening to my ramblings!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Vintage Cream

Stamps: Damask Designs

Ink: Dark Chocolate

Other: Raspberry Fizz Satin Ribbon, Color Couture Volume 1 Embellishment

Back to School

2010-09-02T06:48:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was the first day of school. It went great, but I was so exhausted by the end of the day - I forget every year how long it takes me to adjust to being back with students all day!

Anyway, I made a these cards - one for the other Kindergarten Teacher and one for the Aide in my room.

I'm still trying to make it to 100 posts...this is 97. Not sure when I'll get there now, but if you still want a CHA set keep your eyes peeled for my giveaway when I finally get to 100!

Have a great day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Orange Zest, Ripe Avocado, Select White, miscellaneous brown scraps

Stamps: Leaf Prints, Signature Greetings

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Tea Dye Duo, Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink

Other: Book Print Impression Plate

Thank You, Nichole!

2010-08-30T17:55:00.000-05:00

Nichole,

Just a Thank You for giving of your time and talents month after month. I can't even begin to imagine how much energy it must take to prepare for each release, but I want you to know that every moment you spend is truly appreciated and does not go unnoticed. Thank you for answering all of our questions, listening to our concerns, and being a source of inspiration! Papertrey Ink is an amazing company because of you! (No one else has me staying up late or waking up early from the 5th-15th of each month!!)

Thanks Again!

~Anika

Altered T-Shirt

2010-08-28T11:28:00.005-05:00

A couple months ago, I saw this post on Kimberly Kesti's blog and since then, I have been scouring the clearance section of every store I go into for cheap t-shirts that I can spruce up.

Well, I hit the jackpot at Target about a week ago when I found these purple t-shirts on clearance for $2! Here's what you do...buy 2 of them - it doesn't matter if they don't have 2 in your size, because you are just going to cut the second one up anyway. In my case, I bought a small to embellish and a large to cut apart.

I made my flowers a little differently than Kim did. I cut out 5 inch circles and then spiral cut them like this. (They don't have to be perfect!)

Then, I stitched the inside edge of the spiral to gather the material.

Once it was all stitched, I wound it into a flower and stitched it together at the bottom.

I made all 5 flowers and then I stitched them onto the other t-shirt. Easy peasy and I have a cute t-shirt in an hour for $4! After trying it on, I'm actually thinking that I will add a couple more flowers to it - I think they need to go all the way up to the shoulder, but for now...here's the finished shirt.

Sorry the colors are so wacky in these pictures, I was working on this late last night.

Hope you are having a great Saturday!

~Anika

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop: August 2010

2010-08-25T16:40:00.004-05:00

The challenge for the Papertrey Ink Blog Hop this month is to use a lunch bag in some way. The details and list of participants can be found here on Nichole's blog. With the beginning of the school year approaching quickly, I didn't have a lot of time to make something super creative, but I did come up with this cute little gift gift bag.

I cut the top off and ran the bag through my Cuttlebug to get the scallops on the top, then I stamped the background, added some ribbon and a sentiment.

Thanks for stopping by! Enjoy the Blog Hop!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Raspberry Fizz, Kraft

Stamps: Embellishments, Signature Greetings

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Dark Chocolate

Other: Raspberry Fizz Satin Ribbon, Small Scallop Border Die, Spellbinders Petite Oval Nestabilities, brown lunch bag

One week from today...

2010-08-22T16:12:00.003-05:00

will be my last day of Summer Vacation. I can't believe how fast the months have flown by! I am certainly looking forward to a new school year, but I will miss my low key summer days.

Last week, I posted this card using Hawaiian Shores. I decided to give the same layout a try in a few different colors so here we have...

Orange Zest

Raspberry Fizz

and Plum Pudding!

These were so simple to put together since I only needed one stamp set.

Hope you have had a great weekend. Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Orange Zest, Raspberry Fizz, Plum Pudding, Vintage Cream

Stamps: Round & Round

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Dark Chocolate, True Black, Tea Dye Duo; Spiced Marmalade & Dusty Concord Distress Inks

Ribbon: Orange Zest Saddle Stitch, Raspberry Fizz Satin, Plum Pudding Swiss Dot

Other: Mat Stack 2 Die, Hole Punch

Cute as a Button Tag

2010-08-21T21:40:00.003-05:00

I made this gift tag in a matter of minutes for the Baby Shower for Katie & Asher that we are having tomorrow. Love it when things come together so quickly! (Katie, hope Asher is sleeping for you tonight so you don't see this before tomorrow!)

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Ripe Avocado, Kraft, Ripe Avocado Bitty Box paper

Stamps: Baby Button Bits

Ink: Peeled Paint Distress Ink

Other: New Leaf Buttons, Cream Button Twine

Card Set

2010-08-20T16:07:00.004-05:00

I think this is the first set of cards that I have made that are all similar.

These all use Vintage Cream Cardstock and a Black Creative Memories fine tip marker.

Stamp Sets: Star Prints & Scattered Showers

Ink: True Black & Peeled Paint Distress Ink

Stamp Set: Signature Greetings

Ink: Raspberry Fizz

Cardstock: Raspberry Fizz & Dotty Biscotti Patterned Paper

cut with Beautiful Blooms 2 Die Collection #3

Stamp Sets: Embellishments & Leaf Prints

Ink: Pure Poppy & Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink

Stamp Set: Star Prints

Ink: Enchanted Evening

Cardstock: Enchanted Evening & Spring Rain Bitty Box

cut with a Cricut Cartridge

I've got a busy weekend ahead of me, but I am determined to make it to 100 posts before the first day of school so I will try to post some other projects I have been working on soon!

Have a great day!

~Anika

All Supplies listed are Papertrey Ink, unless noted otherwise.

Hawaiian Shores

2010-08-17T07:12:00.003-05:00

I just adore this color! I've got a super simple card to share today.

I just love all that Hawaiian Shores...paper, ink, ribbon! I bought the Mat Stack 2 Die at CHA and I made this card primarily to try it out!

I'm headed out to go Back-to-School shopping with my mom today! Hope you have a great Tuesday!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Hawaiian Shores, Vintage Cream

Stamps: Round & Round

Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Dark Chocolate, Tea Dye Duo

Other: Mat Stack 2 Die, Hawaiian Shores Bitty Dot ribbon

Thank You card & Desk Organizer

2010-08-15T06:48:00.000-05:00

A couple things to share today. The first is a Thank You card and it's the last in my first set of cards for the baby shower game prize. I just love how simple this card is and plan on making many more with the same layout just different colors and sentiments.

I was having 'sew' much fun with my sewing machine on some cards when I came across this adorable desk organizer. You can find official patterns and directions here.

Since my machine was out, I decided to modified the design to fit some material I had on hand and came up with this!

It was so easy peasy! I think I finished it in under an hour and now that I have the kinks worked out, I don't even think they would take that long. Any guesses as to what is in between the layers of material that make up the sides and bottom? Here is a hint...I would have to buy 5 PTI Stamp sets in order to make 2 organizers. I'll let you think on that one for a second. (You can find the answer in the supply list below.) Since I don't have the scalloped square die cut that the original version uses, I just cut squares and then clipped and frayed the seam allowances after it was all sewn together.

This is going to be a back to school gift for the other Kindergarten teacher on my team. It happens to match this tote bag that I made for her for Christmas last year. (She's a coffee fanatic.)

Thanks for visiting! Have a wonderful Sunday!

~Anika

Supplies:

Thank You Card (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Vintage Cream, Simply Chartreuse

Stamps: Polka Dot Basics 2, Asian Fusion

Ink: Dark Chocolate

Other: Beautiful Blooms 2 #3 Die Collection, Brown Thread

Desk Organizer

10 - 5x5 inch squares of fabric

4 - 3x5 inch squares of fabric

5 - 4x4 inch squares of acetate (I used the clear boxes that my PTI stamps come in...finally a use for the many I have collected! And it cuts easily with my paper cutter.) Note: You could leave the bottom acetate sheet out and then the organizer would be foldable like the original version.

It's Saturday!!

2010-08-14T06:11:00.003-05:00

ETA: Oops! Meant to schedule this for tomorrow AM...so if you are reading this before midnight, it's not quite Saturday yet!!

Yeah for Saturday and PTI release night! I've got a birthday card to share today. I was able to use up lots of scraps from my "Blue" file on this one.

We are headed back to the fair for some more food...the pie is calling my name! Enjoy your Saturday!

~Anika

Supplies:

Cardstock: Vintage Cream & Spring Rain Bitty Box (PTI), Glitter paper (Animal Crackers Mat Stack), Damask paper (Old World Mat Stack), Distressed paper (Kioshi by BasicGrey)

Stamps: Delightful Dahlia (PTI)

Ink: Enchanted Evening (PTI), Peeled Paint (Ranger Distress Ink)

Other: Vintage Cream Satin Ribbon (PTI), Brown thread

Filled with Happiness

2010-08-13T05:03:00.002-05:00

This is another card from the group I am making for the baby shower game prize. I've been meaning to use the cork I bought a couple months ago so I finally pulled it out for this card. And while I love the simple layout, colors and the ribbon on this card, I'm not completely sold on this cork flower. I think part of the reason is that since it's sticky back cork, it's 'bent' around the multiple layers of ribbon underneath it. Oh well!

We are off to the County Fair again today...I just can't get enough of the food and people watching! Enjoy your Friday!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Vintage Cream, Harvest Gold, Old World Mat Stack

Stamps: Big & Bold Wishes

Ink: Dark Chocolate

Other: In Bloom Impression Plate, Dark Chocolate Satin Ribbon, Button from the Holiday Button Mix, Floss, Sticky Back Cork from JoAnn's

Hope your Day is Fabulous

2010-08-12T13:10:00.002-05:00

I'm busy making cards today, but I wanted to quick share this card. It's going to be part of a set that I'm making for a prize for a baby shower game.

Hope you're having a great day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Vintage Cream, Hibiscus Burst, Kraft, Dotty Biscotti Patterned Paper

Stamps: Life, Signature Greetings

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Raspberry Fizz, Tea Dye Duo, Antique Linen Distress Ink

Other: Petite Oval Spellbinders Die, Brown Thread

Orange Zest!

2010-08-10T10:51:00.003-05:00

I just love this Orange Zest and I wouldn't even consider orange to be a favorite color of mine! Just makes for some fun and cheery cards!

Well, I'm off to my classroom. It needs some major work and since my sister-in-law volunteered to come help me today (love her!!) I figured I'd take advantage of the extra hands. Besides that, it's raining out so I might as well get some inside things done!

Have a great day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Orange Zest, Kraft, Dotty Biscotti

Stamps: Signature Greetings, Fancy Flourishes

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink

Other: Beautiful Blooms II #3 Die Collection, Scor-Pal, Misc. buttons from Wal-Mart

Paper Dolls Challenge #16

2010-08-08T08:08:00.000-05:00

I'm back today with another Paper Dolls Challenge. This one is hosted by Lee Anne and it can be found here. She challenged us to use this sketch...

I don't think I have ever made a circle card, but I have always wanted to. So thanks for the challenge, Lee Anne!

I cut both circles with my Cricut and then roughed up the edges with a scissors. I'm still not sure I like the red buttons, but I didn't have any yellow ones - can't believe I didn't pick up Harvest Gold buttons at CHA! To make this a card, I attached a little 3x3 inch card to the back of the red circle.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Pure Poppy, Harvest Gold, Stampers Select White

Stamps: Star Prints

Ink: Pure Poppy, True Black

Other: Pure Poppy Buttons, Fiskars Star Punch, Cricut Expression

Paper Dolls Challenge #15

2010-08-07T07:00:00.001-05:00

I was a busy bee yesterday down at my craft table! I was able to get caught up on some Paper Dolls challenges and I got a few other cards made that I will either sell to the boutique, send to the sailors, or add to my stash. Anyway, on with the card...

Bonnie Rose challenged us to use this scarf as our inspiration. Isn't it gorgeous!?!

This is what I came up with.

This challenge (found here) is still open so feel free to join us!

Enjoy the weekend and thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Hibiscus Burst, Harvest Gold

Stamps: Library Card, Floral Fusion, Asian Fusion

Ink: Versamark, True Black, Raspberry Fizz

Other: Making Memories Die Cut, Prima Flowers, misc. rhinestones

Paper Dolls Challenge #13

2010-08-06T11:32:00.004-05:00

So I am a day late on this challenge, but wanted to do it anyway! Leish challenged us to use some kind of fabric or material that we could find around our house as inspiration for a card. Well, I looked and looked in my closet, but no such luck. Then I thought about my bathroom towels. I fell in love with the color combo in this towel one day when we had just started to build our house. I immediately knew I wanted to paint the 2nd bathroom that rich blue color. After 2 years, we are still getting comments on it! I decided the stripes would be perfect for a guys - or should I say 'Dudes' - card.

I used a scissors to rough up the edges of the Vintage Cream layers to mimic the fluffy towel look.

Hope you are having a great Friday! My friend Katie will be here soon and we are going to do some more crafting...can't wait! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Orange Zest, Vintage Cream, Ripe Avocado

Stamps: Distressed Stripes, Signature Greetings

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Enchanted Evening, Peeled Paint & Spiced Marmalade Distress Inks

Other: Rustic Cream Button Twine

Live, Laugh, Love

2010-08-04T12:58:00.004-05:00

This is going to be quick. I have to run to a friends house to do a little card making in a bit.

Just a fun girly card today!

I also wanted to show you my beautiful pile of PTI goodies from CHA!

Here it is! Lots of paper, ribbon, Impression Plates, dies! I also got some twine, envelopes, reinkers, patterned paper, Library Card stamp and of course the exclusive CHA set! (I earned 2...watch for a giveaway of my extra set when I reach 100 posts!)

This last picture is of most of the make n take projects we were able to do. 2 PTI projects, a card make with the Sizzix, a duck tape wallet, card make with an EKSuccess border and corner punch, digital layout from Jessica Sprague, Earrings, Scissor holder, denim Travel Butler, and an airbrushed t-shirt. Wish I could have gone the second day for more make n takes!

Have a great day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Raspberry Fizz, Kraft, Dotty Biscotti designer paper

Stamps: Fancy Flourishes, Round & Round

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Fresh Snow

Other: Prima flowers; Petite Oval Spellbinders die; button, floss, raffia, ric rac, & eyelet trim from my stash

Sold!

2010-08-02T15:47:00.005-05:00

Over the past few weeks, I have been making a stack of cards that I was hoping to sell at a little boutique shop in a neighboring town. Last week before I left for Chicago, I finished them up and delivered them. I found out today that the owner loved them, and she paid me for the whole stack! Now I have to get busy making more! I'm excited about making a little money to help fund this addiction of mine and now I have a place for all the cards I make for challenges and such!

This is one of the cards that was in the stack I brought to the store.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Smokey Shadow, True Black, Select White

Stamps: Big & Bold Wishes, Polka Dot Basics II

Ink: Pure Poppy, Versamark

Other: True Black Satin Ribbon, Clear Embossing powder

CHA 2010

2010-08-02T09:16:00.006-05:00

What a fantastic time! I had a blast at CHA...even waiting in line for 2 hours to get in was fun! My mom and I ended up getting to the convention center around 10:00. We hadn't planned to get there that early, but we were sitting in the hotel all ready to go and just decided we would head over. After about 15 minutes of sitting in the line, I heard a some commotion and when I looked up Michelle, Dawn & Heather were all standing on the other side of the ribbon!! By the time I grabbed my camera and stood up, Michelle was right next to me! You can tell from these pictures that I was not excited at all to meet them...haha!! All I could do was smile. By the looks of some of the pictures, my mom must have been really excited too. (Just a little blurry!)

After awhile, we weren't in a line anymore. It was more like a mob. The security guards didn't seem to understand what all the excitement was about. It was funny to watch them shake their heads, roll their eyes, and laugh at all of us crazy crafters! (Let me know if you find yourself in this picture.)

I'm pretty sure almost everyone went straight to the PTI booth were Nichole handed us shopping bags. After grabbing all the paper and ribbon I wanted, Jenn handed us a slip with all the dies and Impression Plates that they had. We just had to mark what we wanted, then some fabulous workers picked them all up for us and they were ready when we got to the front of the check out line.

After shopping, we went to work on the make n takes. My mom made her first PTI card and I met Nadine!

After we were finished at the PTI Booth we walked around the rest of the show and made some other fun projects and tried out some new tools. We ended up at the PaperCrafts booth where I met Susan, Cath and Maren. I happened to be the "Mega Fan of the Week" on the PaperCrafts facebook page which made it even more fun to meet them since they also "knew" me!

While at the PaperCrafts booth, I also met Belinda, the 2010 Gallery Idol. We had a great chat.

A little earlier in the day, I was working on a project at a booth and I was sure that I saw

Taheerah, but I didn't feel like I could leave the booth to run down the aisle to catch her in the middle of my project. Then, as we were getting ready to leave the show, I decided to take one last loop around the PTI booth and there was Taheerah!

I wasn't able to make it to the get together that evening because I had family fly in that evening and the rest of the weekend was spent running around Chicago with all 8 of them! I would have loved to meet more of you though!

As you can probably tell from that crazy cheesy smile I have in just about every picture, CHA was awesome! I will definitely try to go again.

~Anika

Card Making Day with Katie

2010-07-26T17:55:00.004-05:00

Katie & I have been friends since Kindergarten and she had a baby boy a couple weeks ago. Today she came over to make some thank you cards. We had fun chatting and crafting.

We managed to make 22 of these before we ran out of Kraft cardstock. (Katie is now in love with Kraft cardstock and is having me pick up 2 packs of it for her at CHA!) I think they are adorable - it certainly helps having a cute baby as the focal point! We are planning another day to craft some more before I head back to school and she heads back to work.

Over the weekend we went to a bridal shower and this is the card I made them. I {heart} Guidelines 2!!

I'm not sure if I will be back here before I leave for Chicago or not - tomorrow might get busy. I can't believe that one week from today I will already be home! Can't wait to meet some of you!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Thank you card

Cardstock: Kraft, misc. baby blue

Stamps: Star Prints

Ink: Dark Chocolate

Other: Polka Dot Impression Plate, Ribbon from Michael's, baby picture

Celebrate card

Cardstock: Kraft, Stamper's Select White, Berry Sorbet, Hawaiian Shores

Stamps: Guidelines 2, Damask Designs

Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Berry Sorbet, Tea Dye Duo, Antique Linen Distress Ink

Other: Dark Chocolate Satin ribbon, Cream Button Twine, White Button

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop: July 2010

2010-07-25T16:16:00.007-05:00

The challenge this month was to incorporate office supplies into our projects. I have been wanting to use staples on a card for awhile now, but never remember to so that's what I used on my card. I also used a notecard. It might not be something everyone has in their office, but it is essential in my 'office' (aka my classroom).

Can't believe how fast this month is flying by! Looking forward to meeting some of you at CHA this week!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Kraft

Stamps: Signature Greetings, Damask Designs

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Fresh Snow, Tea Dye Duo

Ribbon: Sweet Blush Twill

Other: Staples, Notecard

Curtain Call: Act 38 & Moxie Fab: Fun & Cute

2010-07-16T09:58:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! Can't believe how quickly this week has gone by! Today's card fits a couple challenges Curtain Call: Act 38 and Moxie Fab: Fun & Cute. It's been so fun looking at all the different styles of cards this week over on the Paper Crafts Blog and the Moxie Fab Blog! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of Card Style.

This was a tough color combo for me, but now that it's all together, I like it! I just love that cupcake, but haven't used it before now. It's so cute and very easy to paper piece.

Hope everyone has an enjoyable weekend! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Kraft, Plum Pudding, Vintage Cream, Spring Moss, Pretty Pastels designer papers, Orange glitter paper from Animal Crackers Mat Stack

Stamps: Baby Button Bits

Ink: Dusty Concord Distress Ink

Other: Saddle Stitched Ribbon in Orange Zest and Berry Sorbet, Vintage Buttons in Spring Moss & Orange Zest, Rickrack Die, Large Scallop Die, Glitter, Cream Floss

Play Date Cafe #38 & Moxie Fab: Clean & Graphic

2010-07-15T12:14:00.003-05:00

It's been a busy couple of days! I've made a bunch of cards and I'm on a domestic streak - lasagna and cookies yesterday, casserole and brownies today. YUM!

This card is for the Play Date Cafe Challenge #38 and the Moxie Fab: Clean & Graphic Challenge. I thought this would be easy, but I guess my style isn't usually Clean & Graphic!!

It's beautiful here today after a stormy day yesterday so I'm excited to go sit outside and enjoy it for awhile! Have a great day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Bazzill Basics in Boysenberry Delight, Sparkleberry Delight & Lime Crush

Stamps: A Little Argyle and Big & Bold Wishes

Ink: Fresh Snow, Dusty Concord Distress Ink

Practicing Creativity Sketch Challenge

2010-07-13T11:41:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to be playing along with the PCD Sketch Challenge. You can find the details here if you want to play along too! This is the sketch I chose to use.

This is what I came up with.

I ran out of Vintage Cream cardstock! Oh, the horror! I can't believe I didn't notice how low my stash was. The card base is Vintage Cream, but I couldn't even find a 2 inch scrap to use for the sentiment so I used a scrap of something else that's not as white as Stampers Select White, but it's not very creamy either. Oh well, CHA can't come soon enough, I have some stocking up to do!

Hope you are having a great day; thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Vintage Cream, Plum Pudding Bitty Box, Orange Glitter from Animal Crackers Mat Stack, scrap of something in a whiteish/cream color

Stamps: Guidelines 2, Signature Greetings

Ink: Hawaiian Shores, Antique Linen, Dusty Concord & Spiced Marmalade Distress Inks

Other Hawaiian Shores Bitty Dot Ribbon

Color Throwdown #100

2010-07-10T07:24:00.000-05:00

I had a lot of fun making my card for the Color Throwdown this week! I think I had every kind of supply I own out at some point. It seemed like everything I reached for sparked a new idea. I didn't have the exact colors, but I think I'm close enough. There are tons of great prizes up for grabs, so be sure to play along with this challenge - you have until Monday night to submit your project.

I found this pretty ribbon tucked in an old cigar box full of ric rac, ribbon, and buttons that I got from my grandma. I would love to know how old it is! The tag is from Color Couture Volume 2, I was so excited when I saw it peeking up at me with 3 of the colors I needed for this challenge.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Spring Rain, random scrap of light pink

Stamps: A Little Argyle

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Pure Poppy, Hawaiian Shores, Peeled Paint Distress Ink, Tea Dye Duo

Other: Color Couture Volume 2 Embellishment, Pure Poppy, Spring Rain, & Spring Moss Buttons, Vintage Ribbon

Picture Frames

2010-07-09T08:52:00.004-05:00

Today I have a couple frames to share instead of cards.

This frame is from Michael's. I think it was $2.50! I used A LOT of Scor Tape to cover it with that fun patterned paper. The sticker is from the same paper pack and I put it on a piece of Kraft cardstock and cut around it before putting it on the frame so that it wouldn't get creases in it from the ribbon. I'm giving this to a friend who recently had a baby girl.

I whipped up this little mat the other day when my friend had her baby boy. We brought it with us to the hospital that evening. The diamonds that I stamped in Hawaiian Shores don't show up very well in this picture, but they do IRL.

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend? We are planning an afternoon with friends down by the river tomorrow - should be great, as long as we can keep the mosquitos at bay!

Happy Friday!

~Anika

Supplies:

Frame #1:

Cardstock: Basic Grey - Indian Summer, PTI - Kraft

Stamps: PTI - Life

Ink: Dusty Concord Distress Ink

Other: Basic Grey - Indian Summer sticker label, PTI - Dark Chocolate Satin Ribbon

Frames #2:

Cardstock: PTI - Ocean Tides

Stamps: PTI - A Little Argyle

Ink: PTI - Hawaiian Shores, Ocean Tides, True Black; Spiced Marmalade & Peeled Paint Distress Inks

Other: Basic Grey - Indian Summer sticker and sticker letters

HEC #8 & SSSC76

2010-07-08T16:30:00.007-05:00

I have been meaning to play along with Ted's Happily Ever Challenged challenges for several months, but I always seem to run out of time. You can find details for the current challenge to make a Red, White, and Blue card here. I also used the Sweet Sunday Sketch for this week. Here is what I came up with.

I decided to ink the edges of the red layer with white ink...bad idea! I had so much ink on it, that I had to let it sit and dry for hours, even then it was 'smudgable'. Live and learn!

Before I go, I want to alert you to a giveaway! My friend over on the PTI forum, Jen, makes these great button & bead rings and she is giving one away on her blog, so be sure to stop HERE and check it out!

Can't believe tomorrow is already Friday! Hope you're having a fantastic week!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Stampers Select White, Enchanted Evening, Pure Poppy

Stamps: Star Prints

Ink: Fresh Snow, Versamark

Other: Pure Poppy Swiss Dot Ribbon, Fiskars Star Punch

Paper Dolls Challenge #9

2010-07-07T12:36:00.006-05:00

Holy crafting, Batman!! This is my second post today. Scroll down to my first post for the day for a couple cards I made with Color Couture.

I'm trying to catch up on some of the Paper Dolls Challenges. This one was issued by Katie: What's Old is New! Meaning use one of the first Papertrey Ink sets you ever purchased. Well, my first order included 3 sets - Butterfly Kisses and Fancy Flourishes, that I use often and Background Basics: Spots and Dots, that I love, but just don't reach for very often. It was fun to pull it out again, hopefully it will see a little more ink in the coming weeks too! Anyway, I managed to use all 3 sets on my card for this challenge. I also chose to use Berry Sorbet since that was the first ink color I purchased from Papertrey.

Although it's still not perfect, I have gotten much better at lining up the outline and inside of this background image. It's probably the hardest one for me to line up.

Well, I think I'm caught up with the Paper Dolls Challenges that are still open. There are a few others that I never had a chance to do that I still want to try though! Please feel free to play along with the challenges on the Paper Dolls blog - they are issued every Thursday and are open for 3 weeks - we would love to see your work!

Have a great day!

~Anika

Color Couture Cards

2010-07-07T11:16:00.006-05:00

When Papertrey Ink introduced Dawn's Color Couture embellishments, I was in love!! Of course, I bought Volumes 1-3 right away. I hadn't used them much because they were on a shelf where I didn't see them much and I never seemed to have the time to cut them out. Well, last night I sat down with my trusty Cutterbees - while my husband was watching a show that I didn't care about - and I just started cutting away! I am happy to say that I now have all of Volumes 1-3 cut out, and yes, my hand hurts a little! Now I have to buy Volumes 4-6!

I LOVE this color scheme! And I finally got to add some ruffly ribbon to a card!
I am loving this polka dot stamp from the Round and Round set! (Go figure!)

For those of you who saw my previous two posts, I have an update...my friend had a baby boy this morning!! Can't wait to meet him.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Card #1:

Cardstock: Kraft, Raspberry Fizz, Aqua Mist Bitty Box

Other: Color Couture Volume 1, Raspberry Fizz Satin Ribbon, Hawaiian Shores Button, Giga Guidelines Impression Plate

Card #2:

Cardstock: Kraft

Stamps: Delightful Dahlia, Round and Round

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Dark Chocolate

Other: Color Couture Volume 3, Berry Sorbet Saddle Stitched Ribbon

Paper Dolls Challenge #10

2010-07-06T11:31:00.005-05:00

I'm trying to catch up on some of the Paper Dolls Challenges so here is #10: A Sketch by Amy. I rotated the sketch - it was tall with the scallops on the bottom.

And here is my card. If you saw my pink baby girl tag in yesterday's post, here is it's boy counterpart. I thought the snail was an appropriate image since my friend is nearly a week overdue! (I know that is common, but mommy-to-be probably feels like she's a month overdue.) I wish the sentiment said "look who has finally arrived!" though. :)

So girl or boy, I am all set! Just have to pick up a boy or girl outfit on the way to the hospital to go with the rest of the gift!

Well, I am trying to organize our trip to Chicago for CHA. In February, I asked my mom to go with me and she agreed. Then we mentioned it to my aunt, since her son's family lives in Chicago. She decided to come. Last week we thought it would be fun if all the girls on that side of the family came so we checked with my other aunts and girl cousins and 1 aunt and 4 cousins decided to come!! So there will be 8 of us! I think just my mom and I will be attending CHA on Friday though and then we will spend the rest of the weekend sightseeing with the family. It's going to be a riot, I'm so excited!! I'm off to scour the web for some deals on hotels!

Hope you have recovered from the holiday weekend. Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Kraft, Spring Rain, Patterned Paper from Animal Crackers Mat Stack

Stamps: A Little Argyle, Baby Button Bits

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Enchanted Evening, Tea Dye Duo

Other: Spring Rain Buttons, Dark Chocolate Satin Ribbon, Large Scalloped Die

Monochromatic Tag

2010-07-05T13:19:00.005-05:00

A friend of mine is expecting a little one any day now. They didn't find out if it was a boy or a girl, so I am getting prepared for either!! When I saw the CARDS blog challenge was to make a Monochromatic project, I knew I had to make something all pink in case this baby is a girl. After much trial and error, I finally ended up with this flowery pink tag.

I adore the color pink!!

Here you can see the whole package. Love how it dresses up the plain Kraft bag!

Hope you all had a safe and fun 4th of July! We have been busy with friends and family since Friday and it's been a blast. We are so blessed to have so many wonderful people in our lives.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Hibiscus Burst, Sweet Blush, Pretty Pastels Designer Paper

Stamps: Baby Button Bits

Ink: Raspberry Fizz

Other: Beautiful Blooms II #3 Die Collection, Raspberry Fizz & Scarlet Jewel Buttons, Cream Button Twine

Paper Dolls Challenge #11

2010-07-01T08:00:00.003-05:00

It was my turn to post the challenge over at the Paper Dolls Blog today. The challenge is to make a non-standard size card - anything but 5.5" x 4.25". This is the card I made.

It is 3" x 8" on Sweet Blush Card Stock. The patterned paper is from the Pretty Pastels collection and I inked the edges lightly with the Tea Dye Duo. The sentiment is from Bitty Baby Blessings and is stamped in Raspberry Fizz. I cut the flowers from fabric I had left after making this blanket.

I am in love with this floral fabric from JoAnn's! The card and blanket are for my husband's cousin who is expecting a baby girl in September!

If you create a non-standard sized card, be sure to stop by the Paper Dolls blog and link it up so we can all see it! You have 3 weeks.

Happy July!!

~Anika

EBTKS Challenge #18

2010-06-30T10:13:00.005-05:00

For a long time, I have been checking out the EBTKS challenges, but have never participated. Well, today when I saw the challenge to use Aluminum Foil, I had to play along! Click here for the details.

This is what I came up with. First, I scrunched the foil, not too tightly though since I had to be able to open it back up. Then, I used my new Fiskars Star Punch (so glad I picked that up the other day!) and punch out three stars. I used bits of Scor-Tape to adhere them to the cardstock and then cut around them. I used some scraps to make the stripes and decided to add a little interest by weaving them in the corner.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Kraft, Pure Poppy, Stampers Select White, Enchanted Evening

Stamps: Scattered Showers

Ink: Enchanted Evening

Other: Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil, Fiskars Star Punch

Celebrate!

2010-06-29T16:07:00.006-05:00

Just a quick little festive card to share today. We are so looking forward to the weekend and celebrating Independence Day with family and friends.

I got to use my new Fiskars Star Punch that I picked up yesterday when we were out shopping!

Have a fantastic day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Stampers Select White, Kraft

Stamps: Star Prints, Scattered Showeres

Ink: Enchanted Evening, Pure Poppy, Tea Dye Duo

Misc: Enchanted Evening Satin Ribbon

Dare to be Fabulous

2010-06-28T08:06:00.004-05:00

The card I have to share today is based on this sketch from the Go To Sketches magazine.

I needed to make a card based on a sketch for a Grad class I was in...yes, I found a way to incorporate cards into a class called "Supervising Field Experience Students"! That was the only way I could make time for some crafting during the last 2 weeks! Anyway, I love this sketch and this is what I came up with...

I am headed out to do a little shopping with my Sister-in-law today...we are hitting all the crafty stores in the area, Michael's, JoAnn's, & Archiver's! Hope you have a fantastic Monday!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Kraft, Sweet Blush, Pretty Pastels Designer Paper, Flowers are cut from Basic Grey's Kioshi paper

Stamps: Big & Bold Wishes

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Tea Dye Duo

Misc: New Leaf Buttons and some others from my collection, Beautiful Blooms II #3 Die Collection (small), Rhinestones by Kaiser in Green

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop: June 2010

2010-06-25T16:00:00.003-05:00

The challenge this month was to create a card using your favorite Papertrey Ink color combination. Recently, I discovered this simple little combo and I just LOVE it!

Here is the card I made. It's kind of a spin off from a card I made a week or so ago

that I shared in this post (it's the last card).

Thanks for stopping, enjoy the Blog Hop!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: Kraft, Pure Poppy, Stampers Select White

Stamps: Polka Dot Basics II, Star Prints (sentiment)

Ink: Versamark

Other: Pure Poppy Ribbon, Small Scallop Die, Beautiful Blooms II #3 Die Collection (medium size), White Embossing Powder

Celebrate Today

2010-06-19T16:10:00.007-05:00

Tomorrow is my Grandma's birthday so I got busy and made her a card. I think I spent more time on this card than any other I've ever made. First I couldn't decide what to do. I finally decided to make that paper flower, which was fun, but took a lot of time! I saw a tutorial on it a few months back but I don't remember where. Anyway, I cut 3 flowers from Sweet Blush card stock with my cricut, they had 6 petals and were 2" across. Then I cut them apart, overlapped petals, scrunched the paper, inked the petals, glued things together, and finally glued it to the card and added that little pearl.

The card base is Stampers Select White, but I used a lot of my Tea Dye Duo inks, I think everything was inked except the pearls. The little pink scallop is Sweet Blush cardstock and was cut with my Small Scallop Die. The patterned papers are all from Basic Grey. The sentiment is from Round & Round and the pearls are Kaiser and were purchased at Archiver's.

Well, I need to get ready for an evening out with my BFF! She is visiting from California!

Hope you are having a great weekend! Thanks for visiting my blog.

~Anika

(All supplies listed are Papertrey Ink, unless noted.)

Betsy's Men's Wear Challenge

2010-06-17T14:27:00.004-05:00

I've been needing to make a Father's Day card for my Father in Law so when I saw Betsy's challenge to use a piece of men's clothing as inspiration for a project, I decided to stop procrastinating and make something.

The first thing I found was this Urban Pipeline shirt in my husband's closet...

I've always loved the colors of this shirt and the image on the back. Here is what I came up with...
I don't know, I kinda like it. I think it would be great for a trendy young dad, but it definitely doesn't look like something we would give my Father in Law. So I went back into the closet and started searching. Then I came across this apt. 9 tie...
Now this looks like something my Father in Law might wear so I decided to try again.

I stamped the stripes and used my white gel pen to mimic the pattern on the tie. Then I picked out two stars that had similar patterns.

I was hoping to hang out on the deck today, but it's so windy, I think I'd be blown away! Oh well, more crafting time!

Have a great day!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Card #1:

Carstock: Terracotta Tile, Vintage Cream

Stamps: Distressed Stripes, Fancy Flourishes, Out to Sea, Star Prints

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Fresh Snow, Tea Dye Duo

Misc: PASSPORT chipboard alpha stickers by Making Memories

Card #2:

Cardstock: Enchanted Evening, Dark Chocolate, Vintage Cream

Stamps: Distressed Stripes (I used the back side of the stamps), Star Prints

Ink: Dark Chocolate, Enchanted Evening

Misc: Sakura Gelly Roll White Gel Pen

Cards for Sailors Part 2

2010-06-16T15:24:00.010-05:00

I have 4 more cards to be sent off to the sailors today. (See yesterday's post for the details.)

I used my Giga Guidelines Impression Plate and the Guidelines 2 & Asian Fusion Stamp Sets. The colors are Hawaiian Shores, Vintage Cream and Kraft. I also used the lighter of the two Tea Dye Duo Inks around the edge of the Hawaiian Shores paper.

I love Guidelines 2 and I'm not sure why I don't use it more often! I used Kraft, Plum Pudding & Vintage Cream PTI card stock and a strip of Basic Grey patterned paper. The ribbon is Berry Sorbet and the ink is Ocean Tides, Berry Sorbet & Dusty Concord Distress Ink. Oh and that sentiment is from Big & Bold Wishes.

I used more Basic Grey patterned papers on this card. The stamps are from Asian Fusion. The ink is Hawaiian Shores and Dark Chocolate and 3 different Distress Inks: Dusty Concord, Peeled Paint, and Spiced Marmalade.

And my favorite of the day...I just adore this card. I ran a sheet of Pure Poppy through my Cuttlebug using some Beautiful Blooms Dies, then I masked and stamped Fancy Flourishes, A Little Argyle, and Polka Dot Basics II onto the card base using Fresh Snow and Dark Chocolate Ink. I stamped and embossed the sentiment from Signature Greetings and put the pieces all together.

I'm going to go enjoy some of this sunshine that we (finally) have today! Hope you are having a fantastic Wednesday!

~Anika

Cards for Sailors Part 1

2010-06-15T16:30:00.010-05:00

My best friend's husband is currently deployed with the Navy and I've been wanting to make a bunch of cards to send him that he can use to write home or share with his buddies who need a special card to send home. Kind of like a mini-version of Operation Write Home. Now that school is out, I've had time to start making them. This is what I was able to accomplish today. I'm hoping to make a bunch more this week and get them in the mail by the weekend.

I used Star Prints and A Little Argyle on the card. The ink is True Black and Enchanted Evening, and Peeled Paint and Spiced Marmalade Distress Inks. Cardstock is Stampers Select White and New Leaf.

I used Damask Designs and Asian Fusion stamps, Pure Poppy Ink, Stampers Select White and Pure Poppy Cardstock. The die cut was cut with my Cricut.

No stamping on this one! I ran the Dotty Biscotti paper through my Cuttlebug with the Giga Guidelines Impression Plate. Then I cut an embellishment from Color Couture Volume 3 and put it all on a Stampers Select White card base.

I used some Pretty Pastels paper on this card along with Stampers Select White and Melon Berry. I used the small Scallop Die for the strip on the left. The stamps are from Scattered Showers and Fancy Flourishes and are stamped in Dark Chocolate and Antique Linen Distress Ink. To finish it off I tied some white floss around the mat layer.

This card uses YOF: Violets and Signature Greetings all stamped in Hawaiian Shores Ink. I used the large Scallop Die to make the border on the bottom. The cardstock is Stampers Select White and Hawaiian Shores. I added a strip of Fresh Snow Twill to finish it off.

Can't wait to make some more tomorrow!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Way to go!

2010-06-12T12:45:00.005-05:00

We are headed to a graduation party today then to a cook out with some friends. Too bad, it's not a very nice day...this sure doesn't feel like summer vacation! I don't think I've seen the sun since I've officially been on break, bummer!

Anyway, this is the card I made for the graduate.

Hope you're enjoying your Saturday!

Thanks for stopping by.

~Anika

Supplies: (All PTI unless noted)

Cardstock: Pure Poppy, Kraft, Dark Chocolate

Stamps: Star Prints, Distressed Stripes

Ink: Fresh Snow, Dark Chocolate, Tea Dye Duo, Antique Linen Distress Ink

Misc: Cricut Expression used to cut the circles

Papertrey Paper Dolls: Challenge #8

2010-06-10T17:04:00.006-05:00

School's Out for Summer!! I am thrilled to have a few months to myself! So far my plans include a 2 week grad class, crafting, tending to my plants, figuring out how to teach first grade, going to CHA Chicago, and most importantly RELAXING!

Today I made a couple cards. One of them is for the 8th Papertrey Paper Dolls Challenge (find more info here). I also made one for the 7th challenge, but I'm not sure I like it yet. Anyway, Challenge #8 was to use this color combo...

And here is my card...

I just got Life in my last order and I really wanted to use it. I also used the Large Scallop die. Everything is PTI except the green ink, which is Peeled Paint Distress Ink.

Thanks for looking, I should have more to share tomorrow. Now I'm off to eat some yummy chicken that my husband made on the grill! Enjoy your evening.

~Anika

Papertrey Paper Dolls: Challenge #6

2010-05-31T15:10:00.006-05:00

Wowzers! Where has the time gone! It's been forever since I've been able to update - that will all change next week though when school is done! Here is the Paper Dolls Challenge for the week. It was supposed to be a gift card holder, but I rarely give gift cards and I needed a baby card so I just used the layout instead.

I used Soft Stone for the base and Spring Moss for the mat layer. Then added a bunch of patterned papers - the polka dot one is from PTI Pretty Pastels the others are from a Glitter & Animal Crackers Mat Stack that I had laying around. The stamp is from Baby Button Bits and is stamped in Peeled Paint Distress Ink. I used misc buttons and some Rustic Cream Button Twine to attach the 'o' button.

I have a few reasons for being so absent from my blog lately, the main one being that it's the end of the school year. Another one being the basement family room project.

This is what it looks like today. We have to trim and clean up tonight, because carpet goes in tomorrow morning! This corner will be my craft space so I am very excited to wrap this project up and start organizing and decorating the space!

We have also been enjoying so fabulous weather! Last week we went to the Twins game at the brand new Target Field Stadium. We lucked out and had a beautiful day to go and the Twins won in extra innings!

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you are having a great Memorial Day!

~Anika

Papertrey Paper Dolls: Challenge #3

2010-05-12T20:26:00.007-05:00

I'm alive! I can't believe it's been so long since I've posted. I've actually had some time to create over the past few weeks, just no time to edit photos and post. Sorry this picture is so terrible, but I really wanted to be able to participate in this weeks challenge over on the Paper Dolls blog so at 8:30 tonight, this was the best lighting I could get.

Here's the sketch. (Love square cards. Way to go, Suzanne!)

And here's my card.

I needed a little thank you card for a student who brought me a basket of fruit for Teacher Appreciation Day last week. I used Soft Stone cardstock for the base and some Pretty Pastels PP for the first mat layer. The second mat layer is some Archiver's cs I had in my stash. I used the A Little Argyle and Round & Round stamp sets, Dusty Concord Distress Ink and PTI Fresh Snow Ink. Then a little piece of Fresh Snow Twill to finish it off.

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

(All supplies are Papertrey Ink unless noted.)

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop: April 2010

2010-04-25T15:58:00.003-05:00

Can't believe it's already the 25th again! The challenge this month was to use tissue paper. I stamped polka dots onto torn strips of tissue paper to create the background for my card.

I want to try this again with flourishes and the Argyle set!! I'm keeping it short and sweet, because I'm sure you are hopping to many blogs tonight! Thanks for stopping here!

~Anika

Supplies: (All PTI unless noted)

Cardstock: Kraft, Raspberry Fizz, Stampers Select White (under the tissue paper

Stamps: Polka Dot Basics II, Delightful Dahlia

Ink: Raspberry Fizz, Hawaiian Shores, Fresh Snow, Dusty Concord Distress Ink, Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink

Other: Tissue Paper, Felt in Hawaiian Shores & Raspberry Fizz, Hawaiian Shores Button, Rustic Cream Button Twine, BB Dies

Paper Dolls Challenge #1

2010-04-24T09:51:00.005-05:00

I joined a blog group on the PTI Forum! We call ourselves the Papertrey Paper Dolls! We will take turns hosting challenges that anyone can participate in. So if you make something using this sketch, link it up on the Paper Dolls blog so we can all see it!I needed to make a birthday card for my husband's foreman. We are headed over to his house later today for a surprise party! So here is my 'masculine' take on the sketch!

I love that Dotty Biscotti paper! The lighting in my living room is perfect for taking pictures right now, but I guess I wasn't at the best angle to pick up the cool Woodgrain Impression. You can kind of see it here, but it's much more noticeable in person.

It's been busy around here lately! I feel like I've barely been home - just enough to sleep, eat and make the house a mess! There are 31 days of school left so I am looking forward to some extra hours to just relax around the house and do some more crafting!

Thanks for stopping by; have a great weekend!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: New Leaf, Dark Chocolate, Vintage Cream, Dotty Biscotti Patterned Paper

Stamps: Signature Greetings, Out to Sea

Ink: Dark Chocolate

Misc: New Leaf Vintage Buttons, Woodgrain Impression Plate

Baby Card

2010-04-17T14:17:00.007-05:00

I'm finally getting around to posting a project again! It's been a busy week with wonderful weather so I haven't been at my craft table much. Not to mention the fact that my craft space has been moved again because we started working the the basement family room! My things are all scattered in an unfinished bedroom that only has one light and none of the outlets are live yet, so I can't even plug in a lamp. I just keep reminding myself that it will be short term and the next time I move it, it will be put in its permanent place!

Tomorrow, I am going to a baby shower for one of my good friends, she is due in about a month! I can't wait to meet her little boy. I decided to make him this little flannel blanket. It's so soft!

And here is the coordinating card. I got my copy of Go-To Sketches in the mail this week and this is one of my favorite sketches from the magazine...although I have tabbed about 3/4 of them!
Sorry for the bad lighting, but it's too windy to take pictures outside today!

And here is the basement! The first coat of tape is on the drywall so it should be ready for paint by the end of next week - I just have to pick a color! Then we will lay some tile by the walk out, trim and have the carpet installed. Can't wait!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Pure Poppy, Orange Zest, Spring Rain Bitty Box, Polka Dot paper from Animal Crackers Mat Stack, Green paper from my scraps

Stamps: Bitty Baby Blessings

Ink: True Black

Other: Orange Zest ribbon, Misc. Buttons

CAS Set on Kraft

2010-04-11T17:37:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow evening there is a Baby Shower at my church and I am in charge of the game and the prizes for it. So this afternoon I got busy stamping away and created 2 sets of 6 cards to bundle up as the prizes. Hopefully those who win them will appreciate them more than a kitchen towel or a candle! I decided to make the whole set on Kraft and to keep them pretty clean.

Here they are...This one uses Asian Fusin, BasicGrey Koishi paper, Dark Chocolate Ink, and Dusty Concord Distress Ink.

I used Delightful Dahlia and Damask Designs along with more Koishi paper, Button Twine, Dark Chocolate Ink, Dusty Concord and Peeled Paint Distress Ink.

Lots of masking on this one! The stamps are Year of Flowers: Violets and all the ink is Distress Ink...Dusty Concord, Peeled Paint, & Spiced Marmalade. (Maybe everyone else has figured this out, but I didn't until last week, so here's my tip for you...after you cut out an image to use as a mask, save it in a ziploc bag instead of throwing it away. Then next time you need a mask for that image, you can just pull it out and go! Like I said, maybe I'm the last one to figure this little time saver out, but I had to share!)

Here I used Polka Dot Basics 2 and Scattered Showers. The Ink is Hawaiian Shores, Berry Sorbet, and Dark Chocolate. The paper that the umbrella is on is also from the Koishi Pad.

I used Fancy Flourishes, Year of Flowers: Violets, and Signature Greetings on this card. The ink is Raspberry Fizz and True Black and the paper that the flower is on is Raspberry Fizz. Oh, and the flower is there because I didn't get a clean image with the flourish so I had to cover it up!! Oops!

This is the last one in the set. I used Butterfly Kisses and Signature Greetings. Ink is Pure Poppy, Ocean Tides, and Dark Chocolate along with Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink. Also added some Rhinestones on this one.

We are enjoying some gorgeous weather here today! I took a break from crafting for a bit to go for a walk and have a Root Beer Float on the front deck with my husband. Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

**All Supplies used are Papertrey Ink unless otherwise noted.**

Compose a Card #8

2010-04-10T10:33:00.004-05:00

I was able to make a card for Becky's latest challenge last night. I went with the Dark Chocolate/New Leaf Color Combo. I kept it pretty simple.

I have listened to I'm Yours about a million times since Becky posted this. I just love that song - and I think I was one of the last people on Earth to hear it too! Last spring we had an a cappella group come to our school to perform and they sang this song, the entire student body was singing along and I had never heard it before! I rarely change my radio station from my Classic Rock. Anyway, thanks for stopping by! Hope you are having a wonderful Saturday. The sun is just starting to peek out of the clouds here so hopefully it warms up a bit!

~Anika

Supplies: (All PTI unless noted)

Cardstock: Dark Chocolate, Stampers Select White, New Leaf

Stamps: Polka Dot Basics II, Asian Fusion

Ink: Fresh Snow

Other: Misc. Buttons from my stash, Rustic Cream Button Twine, New Leaf Saddle Stitched Ribbon, Flower Punch from Paper Shapers

Wishing You Sunshine!

2010-04-09T18:08:00.005-05:00

Today's card is what I made for the PTI forum Spring/Easter Card Exchange. Diane Jaquay was the recipient of my card.

I had fun using some cheery Spring colors! The base and ribbon are Berry Sorbet, the mat layers are Hawaiian Shores and Orange Zest. I stamped Guidelines 2 onto Stampers Select White using Ocean Tides, Berry Sorbet, Hawaiian Shores & a Distress Ink called Spiced Marmalade. The sentiment is from Scattered Showers and I stamped the top of it in Hawaiian Shores and the bottom in Spiced Marmalade, then tied it to the ribbon with a bit of Button Twine.

Happy Friday! Hope you are all able to log a few hours or more in your crafty spaces this weekend...I sure hope to! Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

*All supplies are Papertrey Ink unless noted.*

Mojo Monday - Week 133

2010-04-07T12:06:00.003-05:00

When I saw this weeks Mojo Monday Sketch I decided to play along! I have been loving all the fun patterns in the BasicGrey Kioshi paper pad that I picked up last week and thought this was the perfect sketch to use some more of it! Here's the sketch...

And here's my take on it.

The papers in this Kioshi pack are amazing!! I bought the 6x6 pad so I believe the scale of the patterns is smaller, which makes them perfect for cards! The base and other white cardstock is Stampers Select White from Papertrey Ink. I used Plum Pudding Swiss Dot Ribbon. The green buttons are from the Holiday Mix jar and the stamps are from Baby Button Bits. I used Dusty Concord and Peeled Paint Distress Inks. You can barely see it in this picture, but I ran the green background paper through my Cuttlebug using the Giga Guidelines Impression Plate.

Thanks for stopping by! Hope you are having a wonderful day!

~Anika

*Ribbon, Buttons & Stamps are from Papertrey Ink.

Happy Birthday

2010-04-06T11:09:00.002-05:00

I've got a quick card to share today. It follows the Sweet Sunday Sketch #63 found here.

My Delightful Dahlia set hadn't seen enough ink and since I needed to make a birthday card for a girlfriend, I decided to pull it out. After I stamped the flower, I masked it and stamped the leaves.I was able to use my Fiskars Circle Cutter to cut out both circles since I was able to cover up the 'uneven spot' with that big button - every time I try to cut a circle, no matter how careful I am, the cutter moves just enough to make a notch at the end of the circle. I really need some Nesties so I can avoid this!

Thanks for looking!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: True Black, Berry Sorbet, Vintage Cream and Pretty Pastels Patterned Paper

Stamps: Delightful Dahlias

Ink: Berry Sorbet & Peeled Paint Distress Ink

Other: Vintage Buttons from the Spring Mix, Rustic Cream Button Twine, Small Scalloped Die

How I Build Plaid Patterns

2010-04-05T09:49:00.008-05:00

I had so much fun creating my plaid pattern using PTI's Distressed Stripes for my PTI Blog Hop Post that I thought I would make another one. I took pictures of each step so you can see how easy it really is! For this one, I used a 4" square of PTI's Stampers Select White Cardstock to build on. Then I picked out 6 different ink pads to use: PTI's Ocean Tides, Hawaiian Shores & Berry Sorbet and Distress Inks in Peeled Paint, Spiced Marmalade & Dusty Concord.

I just randomly pick a stripe and start stamping leaving about the same amount of space between each stripe. Just be careful to keep your stripes parallel - I just eyeball it.

Then switch stripes and add the second color. (I suppose you wouldn't have to switch, depending on the look you are going for.)

The third color completes the bottom layer.

Then turn your paper 90 degrees and start stamping again! Here I have added all of the Berry Sorbet Stripes and the first of the Ocean Tides stripes.

After adding the Hawaiian Shores stripes, my plaid pattern is finished!

Here is the card I created with it.

I used Kraft Cardstock for the base. The distressed purple paper at the top is from BasicGrey's Kioshi 6x6 paper pad. (I LOVE this collection!!) The sentiment is from Big & Bold Wishes. I wrapped New Leaf Saddled Stitched Ribbon around the patterned paper and tied it off with Rustic Cream Button Twine and a transparent button from my Spring Mix. It was nice enough to take this picture outside today! Yeah for Spring weather!!

Thanks for stopping by; have a fabulous day!

~Anika

*All Supplies used were Papertrey Ink, unless otherwise noted.*

Happy Easter & a Quick Card

2010-04-04T19:23:00.006-05:00

I hope everyone's Easter was joyful! We had a great day beginning with our traditional breakfast at church. Then after the service we went to my Aunt and Uncle's house. We had a wonderful time - yummy food, goofy conversations, and a hilarious game of Telephone Pictionary! Now we're justing relaxing at home and I am looking forward to my day off tomorrow!

Here is a quick card I made the other day. I had fun using a few of my new PTI products...Soft Stone Cardstock and Glitter! I think everything I make for the next few days will have glitter on it!

Besides the Soft Stone CS & Glitter, I used Distressed Stripes and Signature Greetings. Berry Sorbet & Ocean Tides Ink and some Berry Sorbet Saddle Stitched ribbon. After I tied on the ribbon, it still needed something so I used my Small Scalloped Die on a piece of Ocean Tides CS.

That's all for today! Hopefully I will get some crafting time tomorrow and have a chance to post some of it! Have a great evening!

~Anika

Thank You Card & Scrap Storage

2010-04-02T11:36:00.007-05:00

Lately, I have been seeing so many cards created with black bases so I decided to give it a whirl. I finally got around to using my Scor-Tape and Glitter that I bought last month. When I first started this card, I was going to have a bunch of flowers on it, so I cut out 6 Violets and then only used 2. Oh well, guess I have a little jump start on another card!

I organized all my scraps awhile back and now that I know I like this method, I thought I would share it. I just used a cardboard box that some of my PTI Supplies were shipped in and folded the flaps down on the inside. Then I labeled file folders for each color. I sorted my scraps into the folders and set them in the box. Easy Peasy! I am able to keep my little supply of PTI patterned paper and my Mat Stacks in the front of the box.

I also keep the white sheet (or the label) that comes in the packs of PTI Cardstock right in front of the folders. I am constantly using them as shims for my Cuttlebug, or to catch embossing powder, etc... So it's nice to have them in reach.

Here is the "Pink" file. (Not all my scraps are this big.)

And the "Green" file.

I know I have saved a lot of money by doing this, because it is so easy to find exactly what I need. No more cutting into a brand new piece of cardstock just for a small piece!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink)

Cardstock: True Black, Hawaiian Shores, Raspberry Fizz, and Bitty Box in Lemon Tart

Stamps: Year of Flowers: Violets, Asian Fusian

Ink: True Black

Other: Vintage Buttons in Hawaiian Shores, Raspberry Fizz & Lemon Tart; Glitter; Clear Rhinestones; Polka Dot Impression Plate

Compose a Card #7

2010-04-01T16:54:00.005-05:00

You can get the details for Becky's latest challenge here.

I had a lot of fun making this card, but it was definitely a challenge! I started it on Tuesday evening, but just couldn't 'get it'. It wasn't until today when I saw Betsy's post for the PTI DT Challenge that I finally figured out what I wanted to do! I loved her idea of inking the Impression Plate before sending it through the Cuttlebug - definitely a technique I will use frequently!! So here is my card...

My other favorite thing these days is blanket stitching! On Tuesday night (after I gave up on my card for the night), I took a chunk of black felt and free hand cut a bunch of flowers out of it and stitched around the edges while I watched TV.

Thanks for checking it out!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink - except the blue floss)

Cardstock: Vintage Cream, Lemon Tart, Bitty Box in Spring Rain

Stamps: Year of Flowers: Violets

Ink: True Black, Fresh Snow

Other: Black Wool Felt, Spring Rain Button, Rustic Cream Button Twine, Rickrack Border Die, Giga Guidelines Impression Plate, Embroidery Floss

Thank You So Much

2010-03-28T18:26:00.005-05:00

Just a quick post today. I love Damask Designs! I waited way to long to get this set. I have been using it on everything lately!

For this card, I used all Papertrey Ink Supplies. I started with a Kraft cardstock base and added a square of Enchanted Evening and a Square of Bitty Box paper in Spring Rain. Then I stamped the largest image from Damask Designs onto a square of Kraft using Enchanted Evening Ink. I wrapped the Rustic Cream Button Twine around the card before putting the top square on using foam dimensionals. The sentiment is also from Damask Designs and is stamped in Enchanted Evening.

Hope everyone had a fabulous weekend! I am looking forward to a 4 day work week, a 4 day weekend, and another 4 day work week! Hopefully I will have lots of crafting time on my days off!

Thanks for stopping by!

~Anika

Papertrey Ink Blog Hop: March 2010

2010-03-25T16:39:00.004-05:00

This month, Papertrey Ink challenged us to use buttons on our project! I love buttons! On my cards I usually just incorporate them as a small accent, but for this challenge I decided to make them more of the focal point.

I was so excited to buy Distressed Stripes this month and I've had my order for almost a week and I hadn't had a chance to ink it up so I new I wanted to use it for this card. I had so much fun building this plaid! I can already tell that it's going to be a set that sees lots of ink! After I stamped the plaid, I used my Fiskars circle cutter to cut out a 2" circle. I don't use it often because it always slips and never gives me a clean circle, but since I knew I was going to cover it up with buttons that didn't matter. After I attached the buttons, I felt like it needed just a little something in the top corner. I think the twine was a nice final touch.

And here is a close up. I have also been using trying of Becky's photography tips! It's been fun trying out some of the different settings - rather than just using "automatic" for everything!

Thanks for Hopping!

~Anika

Supplies: (All Papertrey Ink unless noted)

Cardstock: Berry Sorbet, Stampers Select White

Stamps: Distressed Stripes, Signature Greetings

Ink: Berry Sorbet, Ocean Tides, Hibiscus Burst, Raspberry Fizz, Dark Chocolate, Spiced Marmalade Distress Ink by Ranger

Other: Vintage Buttons in Hibiscus Burst, Orange Zest, Raspberry Fizz & Melon Berry, Rustic Cream Button Twine