On Dragon's Wings

Animal Birthday

2012-02-06T15:58:00.000-05:00

The Simon Says Stamp Challenge is currently Animal Antics. I needed to make a masculine birthday card, so I used Lawn Fawn's Critters in the Forest stamp set. I was inspired by Gingerbread-Gal's card here (it is the 6th card down.) I liked her design and background, but I wanted to add a few more images to the scene. I paper-pieced everything on the card. I find it easier than masking images.

Sorry about the dull colours - it was another overcast day. -sigh-

I am also entering this in Do You Stack Up Challenge #57 - Anything Goes

...in your heart forever

2012-01-26T14:50:00.001-05:00

I started making a card today for Lily Pad's Virginia's View challenge. I wasn't pleased with my original card - had a lot of messy glue with tissue paper issues - so I scrapped that idea and went with a new one. Still inspired by the pink hearts from the photo:

The vase with flowers is from Lawn Fawn and the sentiment is Hero Arts. I punched out the heart, stamped the flower vase on it and then stamped some LF hearts around it. Used Tim Holtz distress ink around the heart and Copics to colour the flowers and vase.

I am entering my card in:

Lily Pad's Virginia's View

Charisma Cardz Challenges - Pretty in Pink

The Ribbon Girl - Blue and Pink (my vase is coloured blue)

Simon Says Stamp - Anything Goes!

http://pennyblackatallsorts.blogspot.com/2012/01/january-challenge.html; love and hearts

Thanks for stopping by. Have a great day!

Dress-up Snowman Gift card holder

2012-01-19T11:01:00.000-05:00

For Lawnscaping Challenge #26 the theme is Winter Wonderland.

So of course I wanted to use my LF Making Frosty Friends stamp set. Don't you just love this adorable snowman? I had trouble deciding how I should outfit this cute guy, so I made a card that allowed the recipient to choose their own hats, scarf, and mittens. They can add the top hat and mittens, or the ear muffs and scarf - whatever they want, because they are just stuck down with removable adhesive. The snowman is also paper-pieced, but glued down.

I included a pocket to slip in a gift card - a Tim Horton's card. Now they can enjoy the cold, snowy weather with a hot tea (or coffee) to keep them warm.

We finally have some winter weather - snowy and cold...brrrr. Hopefully it is packing snow!

Have a great day!

Happy Birthday for a friend...

2012-01-14T09:21:00.000-05:00

Next week is the birthday of a friend of mine whom I have known since grade 1 (that's a looonnnggg time ago). I knew I wanted to use the cute Lawn Fawn stamps, but I had trouble coming up with an idea until I read about the CAS-ual Friday challenge - CFC35: Create a Clean And Simple project with scallops. I used scallops for the water, but I used the 'waste' portion of the scallops. I spent a lot of time cutting out the sea critters, but it was well worth it. I love the look of the paper pieced critters.

My friend has actually spent some time working with dolphins, so I thought this cute dolphin might make her smile. I also made and decorated the envelope. Now I just have to mail it and hope it gets across the country in time!

Challenges that I am entering this in:

CAS-ual Fridays Challenge 35 - scallops

Moxie Fab World - Die Cutting Challenge (make sure you stop by and play!)

Papertake Weekly - Die Cute Special

Charisma Cardz Challenges - Happy Birthday (it's their 3rd birthday and my first time playing)

Have a great day!

Christmas Cards that never got posted....

2012-01-12T13:57:00.000-05:00

As Christmas got closer, and the rush was on to finish my cards, I found I didn't have time to post my cards. I managed to take pictures of most of the last few cards I made. Unfortunately the lighting conditions weren't always the best.

This is my first Christmas stamp set from PB. I embossed the background and die cut the scalloped circle, adding the patterened paper underneath. I meant to raise the background, but decided to keep it flat.

These stamps are from my newest PB Christmas stamp set - Winter Wonderland. I coloured it with my Copics. The sentiment is from my very first stamp set ever (don't remember the name, though.)

I embossed the ornament shape with my Spellbinders ornament die. The first time I did this, I had the die and paper facing my A plate. Oops...it cut through the card base and left an imprint in my A plate. I was more careful the next time. :) The stamp on the card is from Inkadinkado, "naughty or nice".

I finally found this stamp from Hero Arts at Michaels this year! I love the winking reindeer. The banner is a stamp from Lawn Fawn.

Sorry about this picture - my lighting was really bad that day. Same winking reindeer as the one above. The banner is another stamp from Lawn Fawn.

The next two are gift card holders. I used the cup sleeve from Starbucks (had to buy my daughter some hot chocolates to get these) and used my Sizzix Snowflake die. The paper is from Bo Bunny.

I've learned that I need to start earlier in the year so I can make all my Christmas cards without being rushed. If I want to make individualized cards, I need way more time for each card.

Have a great day!

Moxie Fab Challenge: Die Cutting

2012-01-12T13:31:00.001-05:00

There are several new challenges at Moxie Fab World. As part of their Cool Tools week, one of the challenges is the Die Cutting Challenge. I love using my dies. And I recently bought some new ones. I thought I would try them out and enter the challenge.

Materials Used:
Dies: My Favorite Things Die0namice Mix & Match Banner; Sizzix Hero Arts Antique Flowers And Butterflies
Paper used: MME six by six Happiness
Copics
Card base: 4" x 51/2"
Gems

Lawn Fawn CHA Challenge 2012!

2012-01-05T21:24:00.000-05:00

I read about this challenge when it came out last week and have been trying to come up with a card to submit since then. With the deadline only half a day away, I asked my oldest daughter for some help. She took a look at the Plus One stamp set and sketched out a card idea. Several hours later, and after a few alterations to her original sketch, I had a card to submit! Since the first one was made for a boy, I decided to make a second one for a girl. I think my pink ribbon should have been a little darker, though. Oh, I just noticed that the top corner of my boy card looks like it is sticking up! I'll have to fix that, but unfortunately there is not enough time to re-take the picture. -sigh-

So go check out the challenge! And even if you don't get a chance to enter, you can still click on all the amazing entries. There are quite a few that I just love.

Snowfall....

2011-12-12T17:58:00.000-05:00

I just love the new Snowfall Collection (6x6) by Bo Bunny. It is such beautiful paper. I used it to create this Christmas card for my sister and her husband. I used a Penny Black stamp from Winter Wonderland, did some colouring with Copics as well as paper-piecing with the Bo Bunny paper.

I originally planned to use several buttons, but felt that just one sparkly button was good. I coloured white ribbon with my Copic B97 to match with the papers.

I am entering this card in the Random Fun Challenge in the Moxie Fab World.

Have a good day!

Lawnscaping's Second Blog Hop!

2011-12-09T00:01:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the second Lawanscaping Blog Hop ! So glad you’re here! You should have come to me by way of Karin (Peppermint Patty). This theme is all about RED!!! The hop runs from Friday, December 9th - Sunday, December 11th! Make sure to comment on all of the blogs because there are LOTS of prizes to be won! All the details can be found on the Lawnscaping home page. The hop is being sponsored by some amazing companies: Lawn Fawn, Mold Muse and Whiskers Graphics!

I decided to make two things for the blog hop. The first is a tag using the adorable bear and sentiment from Pa-rum-pa-pum-pum.

I also made a card with the tree from Critters in the Forest and Ornate Ornaments.

Edit: I can't believe that I forgot to mention my inspiration for this card! A few weeks back I saw a gorgeous card made by the talented Elizabeth Allan. I liked the way she edged her die cut with snowflakes and thought that this technique would work well with Lawn Fawn's branch from Ornate Ornaments. I also loved the layered tree idea.

Next head on to Danielle Walls' blog. If you've gotten off track, don't worry! Head on back to Lawnscaping to see the complete list of designers and prize information!

Have fun!
Jeanette

There's snow on the ground..

2011-12-08T15:09:00.008-05:00

I finally get to spend the day at home (and not outside in the frosty weather) and finish my Christmas card. I actually made two, but wasn't satisfied with the second card, so I'm not going to post it. I'll have to work on it some more - the background is bothering me.
But I am pleased with the card I made using Lawn Fawn's Cozy Christmas. I love the rich, old-fashion colours of the MME's Lost and Found Christmas paper.

I am entering my card in the following challenges:

Papertake Weekly Challenge - Anything Goes, plus something dangly (stockings)

The Color Throwdown -

DYSU -

Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Photo Montage

Have a great day!

Kathy's First Video

2011-12-06T07:13:00.001-05:00

The wonderfully talented Kathy, of The Daily Marker, is now making videos! I just love her site and tutorials, and her first video is fantastic. Go and check it out here.

To celebrate, she is also giving away some awesome blog candy!

Have a great day!

Merry Christmas PB Mice

2011-12-01T13:08:00.001-05:00

Wow, this is the first time that I will have entered my card is so many challenges! I haven't had a whole lot of crafting time, and when I do get it, I find myself getting stuck on what to do - or I keep changing what I'm doing as I go. I don't get a lot done that way. :(
But today I managed to make a card inspired by the colours in the picture from Cupcake Inspirations Challenge #138.

I used my paper from Penny Black for the card base and the PB stamp set Winter Wonderland. I used Spellbinders Reverse Wonky Rectangles to cut out the image and to emboss the card front. I outlined the outer edge of the embossed shape with my glitter gel pen (hard to see in the picture, though) and tied a ribbon around the top. The sentiment is from Lawn Fawn - Cozy Christmas.

I am also entering this card in the following challenges:
Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Anything Goes!
The Ribbon Girl - Jingle All the Way to Christmas Challenge
The Ribbon Reel - Anything Goes (plus ribbon)
Totally Papercrafts - Christmas

Have a great day!

Apple of my Eye...

2011-11-21T14:57:00.000-05:00

Inspirational photos are great, and this week the Lawnscaping Challenge is to create a card (or other project) inspired by this photo:

I used Lawn Fawn's My Silly Valentine and Critters in the Forest.

I am also entering my card in 4 Crafty Chicks challenge #64 - Paper Piecing.

Holiday Card Camp Week 2

2011-11-19T11:45:00.000-05:00

The weeks go by so fast that it is hard to believe that Holiday Card Boot Camp is already over! I have only had the chance to sit down and make one card for the class so far.
I really enjoyed the class, even if I haven't tried all the ideas/techniques yet - but I plan to next week.

For my card, I used my new Penny Black stamps (that I bought through Simon Says Stamp with my 15% discount as a HCBC student!), winter wonderland. These stamps are soooo cute! I love the little birds. I used the first sketch from Day 6 for my card. I thought it worked perfectly with the three birds.

I added some glitter to the hats, but it is hard to see on the picture.

Have a great weekend!

Thanks, Friend

2011-11-15T10:33:00.001-05:00

I just love my LF stamp set, Making Frosty Friends. There are so many things you can make with it!

The Lawnscaping challenge, that I'm entering my card into, is all about Thanks.

I created my little scene of animals and a small snowman. The idea was to have it look like the animals created their own 'snowman' as a thank you to their special wintery friend. I just love the smiling socks and adorable bunny from the My Silly Valentine stamp set.

Supplies:

Stamps: LawnFawn Making Frosty Friends; My Silly Valentine; Critters in the Forest (click on the LF image on the side to go to their wonderful site.)

Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, copics, glitter gel pen, Tim Holtz distress inks

Paper: BG Nordic Holiday, and paper scraps

Thanks for stopping by!

Birthday Card

2011-11-11T12:33:00.001-05:00

My mom's birthday is on Monday and I had so much trouble deciding what type of card to make for her. After picking out Bo Bunny Garden Girl paper (she has a gorgeous garden) I felt that a PB stamp would work perfectly. I wish the pictures turned out better, but it is so grey outside and I couldn't get a good picture. The close-up of Mimi is closest to the true colours of the paper.

I still have to make an anniversary card for my parents, but I think it is time to get some ironing done first. :)

Giveaway at Lawnscaping Challenge!

2011-11-03T08:57:00.000-05:00

Laurel, over at the Lawnscaping Challenge Blog, is giving away FC Watercolour pencils. So hurry over and check it out. :)

Paper Smooches Sparks Challenge

2011-11-01T13:23:00.002-05:00

I've seen the cute Paper Smooches images on a lot of cards recently (love the snowdudes) and checked out their challenge site, Paper Smooches Sparks. Luckily I am entering my card just in time - it ends tomorrow!
I don't own any PS stamps, yet, but they do have some free digital images that I used. You can go to Paper Smooches to check them out.

The inspirational picture has green, orange, cream and brown; the free image is a feather. I thought about it for a while and decided to cut the stem off the feathers, use distress ink to colour them, and arrange them like a butterfly. I used the Fall colours for the wings and then added a folded ribbon for the body.

Friends Warm the Heart...

2011-10-19T12:07:00.001-05:00

I have completed my second card for Lawnscaping Challenge #20 – Paper Piecing.

I’m not very quick at paper piecing, so it took a while; but I managed to stamp, cut and adhere everything down. I got a little glue near the smaller snowman and when I distressed the edges it didn’t cover properly. So I paper pieced a little bird and glued it on top of the flawed area. I just love these new stamps!

Supplies:
Stamps: Lawn Fawn Making Frosty FriendsPaper: MME Lost & Found Christmas 6x6; Bo Bunny Blitzen Collection 6x6; Kaiser Craft December 25th
Inks: TH Distress Ink Antique Linen, Walnut Stain; Memento Tuxedo Black; Copic R29
Other: Ribbon; Glossy Accents; Enamel Accents; Liquid Pearls; SewEasy Fancy Floss, Blueberry, Limeade; Sakura Gelly Roll glitter pen

You are my Cutie Pie!

2011-10-18T11:49:00.001-05:00

For my daughter's birthday, we bought her a board book by Joyce Wan, "You Are My Cupcake." I know it is not meant for a 13-year-old, but she just loves the book...and I couldn't resist getting it for her. One of the pages in the book has an adorable picture of a smiling pie, which immediately reminded me of Lawn Fawn's pie from 'My Silly Valentine' - sooo cute!
I recently ordered this stamp set from Simon Says Stamp and received it yesterday. I was so excited to find it in my mailbox!! I spent some time this morning making a special treat for my daughter.

I made a triangular box (found the video for it this morning: Stamp with Heather) and filled it with some caramel kisses. I am going to surprise her with it when she comes home from school. It goes perfectly with her book!

I am entering this in Lawnscaping Challenges #20. I paper pieced the pie with the same paper pack - April Showers. I liked the blue and green umbrellas on the paper, and luckily the cutie pie stamp fit perfectly inside each umbrella.

Supplies:
Spellbinders Labels 20, Sizzix Original Dies Scallop Combo #2
Paper: 3 Bugs in a Rug - April Showers
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Tim Holtz Distress Ink Worn Lipstick
Copic: R29
Ribbon

Penny Black Stamps

2011-10-05T06:09:00.000-05:00

Over at Clips-n-Cuts, Vicky has been featuring awesome stamps by Penny Black. Besides two great videos, she is also having a giveaway.

Three stamps for three lucky winners. I just love that transparent set and the mimi one - so cute!
It ends in just over 2 days - so hurry over and check out her wonderful cards, videos and the giveaway!

Merry Christmas

2011-10-04T15:18:00.000-05:00

On Sunday night I made a card that I entered in Penny Black's World Card Making Day challenge. I used a sketch from PC's Card Ideas for the Paper Crafters. It's a wonderful magazine.

The paper is from Kaiser Craft December 25 6x6 paper pad. The sketch is such a great way to use up those extra strips of paper. The stamp is from Penny Black, and the sentiment is Kaiser Craft. The bow is made with Hero Arts Designer Twine. After making the bow, I sprayed a little water on the ends and wrapped them around the end of a paint brush. I added a bit of tape to hold it in place and then left it to dry.

The picture I took on Sunday night did not turn out very well at all. I was able to take a bit better picture today - with the sun shining! It is such a welcome change to the cold, rainy days that we had recently. :)

Lawn Fawn Tags

2011-09-28T14:05:00.000-05:00

I love my Lawn Fawn stamps! I wish I had some more. They work so well. Some of my other clear stamps don't produce a clean image, but the Lawn Fawn ones always do.
Ever since I found out that I could use the Sizzix dies in my Cuttlebug I have been very happy. Michaels had a big 50% off sale and I bought a couple Sixxix dies. My favourite one is the tags. It has three different sizes of tags, but I like the largest one best.
For the Lawnscaping Text Challenge, I made a couple tags: one with a Christmas theme and one with a "love life" theme. I stamped the text on first, distressed the edges, added some glitter with my glitter pen and adhered my images to the tags.
I am also entering them in the Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Anything Goes.

2 Challenges...

2011-09-19T13:30:00.000-05:00

The challenge at CAS-ual Fridays this week is to make a mini card - no larger than 4"x4".
For my card, I used MME Lime Twist Life of the Party 6x6 paper. I used my spellbinders circle die and made a lot of little circles. After I glued them together, I used my Marvy heart punch. I adhered it to a 4x4 white cardstock base, added the faux stitches and bow. The sentiment is from Hero Arts.

I am also entering my card for the 'Anything CAS Goes', at Less is More.

Binder Dividers

2011-09-16T08:50:00.000-05:00

It is amazing how expensive binder dividers are! When my kids told me they needed several packages of them, I decided to make a few instead. All the cardstock I used was purchased on sale or clearance.
I don't have any pictures of the one set of binder dividers that I made for my youngest, but I have a picture of the ones my oldest is using. She wanted to use the Halloween paper I got in a clearance pack.

I made the tabs from the bottom of the purple spider paper. I trimmed two tombstones, added some more white dots with my gel pen, and folded it to fit over the paper.

They are quick and easy to make, and definitely a lot cheaper than buying them!

Inspired by...

2011-08-31T15:39:00.001-05:00

This week at the Penny Black blog, the challenge is to create a card based on the inspiration of one of their incredibly talented DT members. They all make such beautiful cards. But on Monday, when I saw Elizabeth Allan's amazing card, here, I felt inspired. I love the layers of white she used and her adorable mimi image.

I used Penny Black's Embrace stamp. I love this adorable elephant!

I am also entering this card for the Simon Says Stamp-tember challenge.
Supplies used:
Spellbinders Label 17
Memento Tuxedo Black ink
Copics
Swiss Dots Embossing Folder
Sentiment: Hero Arts

Moxie Fab Horizontal Sketch Challenge

2011-08-25T14:15:00.000-05:00

Check out Moxie Fab sketches! My favourite of the four is the horizontal sketch challenge. The deadline for this challenge is September 19th, so make sure you stop by their blog and enter!

I am also entering this in:
Less is More - Things that Move

Items used:
Penny Black: Touch of Whimsy, and Airmail
Hero Arts: Anytime Messages
Lawn Fawn: Admit One (I used the balloon string for the bee)
Spellbinders Classic Scalloped Squares
Copics
Tim Holtz Distress Ink - Tumbled Glass

CASE Study Challenge

2011-08-23T10:31:00.001-05:00

The inspiration at CASE Study Challenge Blog this week is Chupa! Her cards are amazing. I really liked the Christmas cards she had on her blog. As soon as I found this card, I knew it was the perfect one! I love the PB stamp she used and the layout was great.

For mine, I used Bo Bunny papers. I coloured part of the image with Copics, and paper pieced the rest. I realized quickly that I was going to have a problem with the tree ornaments. I tried glitter and gems, but didn't like either of them. So I settled with punching little circles of coloured paper. Next time I will do it differently. I used my white gel pen for the fur on Mimi's clothes, but the red started to show through as pink. I also added some white Enamel Accents, but I can still see the pink in spots. Again, something to improve on for next time. Overall, I'm happy with the way the card turned out, and I will definitely make a few of these for Christmas cards (once I figure out what to do about the ornaments.) :)

Here is the inside. The sentiment is from Hero Arts.

I'm also entering it in the Penny Black weekly challenge - PB elegant.

Children's Challenge at Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog

2011-08-22T18:59:00.000-05:00

My 12-year-old daughter, Rachel, would like to share a card she recently made and enter it in the Simon Says Stamp Children's Challenge. It started with a desire to colour the image I had from The Greeting Farm - CC Wednesday. Once she had the image coloured she wanted to try my Cuttlebug. It was great to see her take an interest in something I enjoy doing. :)

Card Patterns 127 Sketch Challenge

2011-08-12T14:28:00.000-05:00

This has been an incredibly busy week, but I managed to finish my card before the deadline tonight. I also wanted to finish it because I'm going to be giving it to my niece for her birthday Monday (but the party is Saturday).
Here is the Card Patterns Sketch for this week:

Here is the card for my niece:

Supplies Used:
Spellbinders circle and lacey circles dies
Mementos Tuxedo Black
Versamark Watermark Stamp Pad
Copics
Penny Black stamps: Mimi the mermaid, Trims, Fun in the Sun
Sentiment is from Hero Arts
Cardstock is PennyBlack "mix & match"papers
Sew Easy Floss

Kathy's Blog Candy

2011-08-04T06:33:00.000-05:00

The Daily Marker is a wonderful blog. Kathy's work is always amazing and I'm so glad she shares how she makes her awesome cards (and projects). Her blog is now 2 years old, and to celebrate she is giving away some exciting blog candy. Click the picture on the sidebar (now that I know how to do that) and visit her fantastic blog!

Card Patterns and More Challenges

2011-08-03T19:56:00.000-05:00

Finally got some time to myself today to make some cards. I really wanted to participate in the Card Pattern Sketch 126 this week. So I used the sketch as my base for several challenges.

I love the mimi in paris stamp set! I recently purchased it from Simon Says Stamp online store. When I can't find a stamp here in Canada, I know I can find it there. I was so excited when it came in the mail!

I started with the navy paper from MME's Lime Twist. Then added a few more patterns from the same paper pad. The first die cut (Spellbinders Label 16) was stamped with PB Paisley Swirls in Broken China, then distressed with Broken China and Faded Jeans. The second die cut (traced) was coloured with Faded Jeans distress ink. The third die cut was coloured with Antique Linen distress ink. The flower stamp (from mimi in paris) was stamped with Memento Rich Cocoa - I first stamped the image on scrap paper and then on the die cut so the image wouldn't be quite so dark.
I paper pieced the image, using MME's Lime Twist papers and cut it out. The sentiment is from PB's Fun in the Sun. My idea of summer fun is an exciting vacation to Paris, France! I really do wish I was there.

Challenges I am entering:
Allsorts Challenge Blog - Free and Easy
Penny Black Saturday Challenge - Penny Black/Ground
Penny Black at Allsorts Challenge - August Free and Easy
Card Patterns - Sketch 126

Sweet Sunday Sketch

2011-07-29T09:21:00.000-05:00

I really wanted to make a card for the Sweet Sunday Sketch challenge this week at The Sweetest Thing. I think the sketch is great.

I just got in my new 6x6 MME's Lime Twist paper pads! I love this paper. I used paper from Life of the Party (the patterns and colours are so pretty). The stamp is from Unity, Itty Bitty: Time and Season and the sentiment is from Hero Arts.

I love Penny Black Stamps!

2011-07-26T06:40:00.000-05:00

Near the end of June, I received a newsletter from Penny Black (to join the club click here). It had a preview of the most adorable stamps - mimi the mermaid and Fun in the Sun. I have been anxiously awaiting the release of these stamps and last week, on the Penny Black Blog, they were giving away five (a set a day) Fun in the Sun stamp sets!!! All I had to do was leave a comment for a chance to win - which was easy to do since the design team's cards were all awesome!
They announced the winners today and I am the Monday winner!! I am so excited about this. I LOVE the stamps and I can't wait to start using them. Plus, they are also sending me some of their wonderful Mix & Match cardstock. Thank you Penny Black!
What a great way to start the day!

Next week, they are featuring their new catalog. Check out Monday's post for the information. Isn't Jill's card beautiful? I love the new "Christmas Pride" stamp.

Blog Candy by Nancy

2011-07-22T06:26:00.001-05:00

Nancy, at Happy Heart Studio, is giving away some wonderful blog candy!

All you need to do is visit her blog for the details. And don't forget to check out her great cards!

Week 4 at Summer Card Camp

2011-07-20T10:06:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that this is the last week of Summer Card Camp. I've learned so much from the instructional videos and inspirational cards from everyone.
For my week 4 card, I've tried to use Jennifer's fingerinking technique. Had a little trouble with it, but it is my first attempt...so I'm sure I'll improve with practice. :) I used clear embossing powder (on IO Cover-a-Card Flourishes stamp), instead of white - I don't like the white I have, it makes the image look a little blotchy. I should have started with my darker colour (peeled paint)and then my lighter colour (shabby shutters). I also added a little bit of Tumbled Glass.
The image is Hero Arts Three Flowers (CG128). I embossed it with gold - love the gold embossing powder - and coloured it with my copics. I used Spellbinders die Labels 4 and added Antique Linen distress ink to the edges. I coloured the ribbon to make the flower and punched out a smaller Labels 4 for the senitment.

I'm going to practice the fingerinking, but I think I'll use my white embossing powder to make the image stand out more. :)

Anything Goes for SimonSaysStamp Challenge

2011-07-19T21:21:00.001-05:00

It's the last couple hours of the SimonSaysStamp challenge where they are giving away 2 extra prizes for reaching 1000 entries. I made this card for Week 4 of the Summer Card Camp, but I just don't have enough time to do a proper post. :)
The picture did not come out as nice as I would have liked it to - the lighting is very bad. I should have borrowed my daughter's camera. I will try to get a better picture tomorrow, before I put a link to it for the SCC.

It looks better in real life - without the washed-out colours and shine from the light.

Week 3 of Summer Card Camp!

2011-07-12T14:08:00.000-05:00

As soon as I saw the colours, I thought of the Bo Bunny Timepiece papers. The stamp I used is from Greeting Farm - Special Autumn.

Week 2 at Summer Card Camp

2011-07-07T13:38:00.000-05:00

I finished my card yesterday, but I wasn't sure if I was happy with it or not. I had some trouble with the distress ink background - I need more practice. :)

Still working on my blog background/layout...

2011-07-06T19:50:00.000-05:00

I'm stuck. I haven't been able to come up with any ideas for my blog background. My oldest hasn't had time to help, so now I'm going to seek the help of my second oldest - Bella. :) For the moment, I am using a picture she made a few years ago. I had to drop the quality to get the file size small enough. I'm hoping, now that school is over for the summer, that she'll have some time to work with me on this.

I want to thank Kathy for her comment on my last post (and for following me!) I will keep checking SimonSaysStamp for those new PB stamps!

New Penny Black Stamp Set

2011-07-06T06:09:00.000-05:00

Kathy at The Daily Marker, is giving away Penny Black's brand new stamp set, 'fun in the sun'. I would love to win this stamp set. I've contacted some of the stores I buy from, but so far they haven't been able to find anything out about this (and mimi the mermaid) new stamp set. I received an email from Penny Black (sign up here to join their club and receive emails about new products) about pre-ordering these stamps, but no luck so far on doing that. Now that they are released, I hope to have a better chance.
If you haven't stopped by Kathy's blog to enter, just click on the link above, otherwise...cross your fingers that I win!

Gallery Idol 2011

2011-07-04T16:15:00.000-05:00

I wish I had more time to make cards for Gallery Idol 2011, but it has been a very busy few weeks and I managed to get only one card made.

The theme was Congratulations, so I made a wedding card. The stamps are from Recollections and I used Antique Linen distress ink and Walnut Stain distress ink. I used my gold embossing powder and really like how it looks.

Week 1 of Summer Card Camp 2011

2011-06-30T12:03:00.000-05:00

It has been a very busy week. I haven't had a lot of time to make cards, but I did manage to make my first card for Summer Card Camp.

The colour combo was a great one with lots of bright, happy colours. I used my copics to stamp the dragonfly, and then layered some bright pink and orange paper underneath.

New Lily Pad Contest

2011-06-29T06:11:00.000-05:00

I became a Member of Lily Pad Cards today! Go become a member for a chance to win a collection of Hero Arts stamps. Contest closes at 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, July 15!

Have a great day!

Ladybugs!!!

2011-06-23T14:11:00.000-05:00

Here is the inspirational photo for Challenge #116 at Cupcake Inspirations:

I just love ladybugs. They are so cute! I was so excited when I saw the challenge that I found my CC Designs EZ Mounted Gingersnaps Oh Baby Set and started stamping and colouring the baby. The papers I used are from Echo Park Essentials Metroplitan Dots & Stripes.

Sorry about the picture quality. It has been raining, so the sun is hiding.
I am entering my card in the Cupcake Inspirations Challenge.

My First Follower!!

2011-06-22T06:53:00.000-05:00

I have a follower! Thank you so much, Archana for following me. :) I visited her blog and her cards are beautiful. I saw a few from the Card Patterns challenges (1, 2)and they are amazing. As well as the rainbow coloured ones from her Trigger Tuesday post.
Thanks again!!!

Card Patterns Sketch 120

2011-06-19T20:44:00.000-05:00

This week at Card Patterns, I was inspired by the sketch and created a water-themed card. The pp was from my Echo Park Summer Days 6x6 pad. I really love their beautiful papers. I wish I could find a store around here with a greater selection - there are so many that I want to buy!!! I used the masking technique to make my water area (with Tumbled Glass and Faded Jeans - also adding a light misting of water) and added the Imaginisce Rub-ons that were a bonus gift from an early order from my favourite scrapbooking store. I coloured my ribbon orange (Copic marker) to match my pp and then tied my bow with the bow easy tool.
I love the bright colours of the Echo Park paper pad!

Too late for LIM challenge

2011-06-19T19:18:00.000-05:00

I was originally creating this card for the LIM one layer challenge, but I did not get it finished in time.
It involved a lot of masking and I really enjoyed the process (and results).
Once I knew that I was too late to enter the challenge, I paper pieced the bird. :)

Where does the time go?

2011-06-17T15:13:00.000-05:00

Can you believe that it is already June 17th? I can't. My kids are almost done school (except for my oldest in College - her ECE program continues over the summer months.) The days are finally drier and warmer, and the flowers (including the weeds) are growing rapidly. My peonies started blooming earlier this week and I didn't even notice until the Mailman made a comment about how pretty they were. I looked at the plant and saw the large deep pink blooms and agreed they were beautiful. I thanked her and continued to admire the flowers. I don't know how I missed them - I walk by them every day. I guess I just need to slow down and start paying attention to all the wonderful things spring is bringing us.

I barely made it into the Penny Black Blog's challenge last week. I managed to make and upload my card a couple hours before the deadline. The challenge was 'fun folds'.

I also had a little time Sunday afternoon to participate in the Hero Arts Flickr group Scramble. It was to make Scraplings. So I dug through my big bag of scrap papers and got to work. The cards are approx. 2.25" x 4". It was my first time playing along and I really enjoyed making the smaller cards.

Still haven't had a chance to work on the look of my blog. I guess I'll have to wait until the summer holidays to work on it.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and Happy Father's Day!

Cupcake Challenge

2011-05-31T10:27:00.002-05:00

I was checking through some blogs this morning and saw this week's challenge (Challenge #113) at Cupcake Inspirations. Their challenges are based on some yummy-looking treats. :)
Take a look for yourself at how delicious these look:

Recently I bought a gift card for someone and purchased the $1.00 card sleeve. I used that as a template to make my own. When I saw this challenge, I thought I would create one based on the cupcakes and use it for my sister's birthday. :)

I am entering it in the challenge.
I wish I had one of the delicious cupcakes right now...

Upgrading my template

2011-05-30T10:42:00.001-05:00

I wanted to make some changes to my blog, so I've upgraded from my Classic template. It will probably take me some time to get everything the way I want, but if enlist the help of my oldest daughter, I might get done by the end of the week. I'm not sure what I want for the background, but I'm sure she will have some wonderful ideas for me. :)

Pretty and Pink

2011-05-29T19:43:00.000-05:00

When I was young, my favorite colour was pink. I had pink shirts, pink shorts, pink skirts, and pink dresses. My sister preferred blue. Her loss - pink is an awesome colour. Although I have very few pink clothes as an adult, I still love pink! When my girls were little, I would find the most adorable pink fabric and make them clothes - usually dresses. Unfortunately, they have outgrown wearing pink - and dresses.
So when I saw the Penny Black Saturday Challenge was "one for the girlies" it took me back to my pink days, which was the inspiration for the main colour on my card. I used the sketch from this week's challenge at the Penny Black Blog...that ends tonight.
The majority of paper I used was from My Mind's Eye Stella and Rose 6x6 paper. It has such beautiful patterns and colours. The stamp is from Penny Black - 'sealed with a kiss'. The sentiment is Hero Arts.

Photo Inspiration at Allsorts Challenge Blog

2011-05-26T09:15:00.000-05:00

The inspirational photo at Allsorts Challenge Blog has me wishing summer was here - instead of the wet, cool spring we're experiencing. It's raining, again, as I'm posting this.
I used Stamping Bella images Arthur and Annie. The clouds were made with a little doodle-type stamp from Hampton Arts. I started with white cardstock and used distress inks to make my beach/sky background. I used dimensional foam on Annie and the little sand pile, just to add a little extra dimension to the card.

I am entering this is at Allsorts Challenge Blog. There is also an extra part to the challenge this week, that I've already completed and emailed, so check out their site! (But it ends soon.)

Happy Birthday for my sister...

2011-05-12T12:53:00.000-05:00

My sister's birthday is coming up this month and I thought I would make her a card with my new HA stamp, Tall Flower. I coloured it with copics and paper pieced the darker part of the flower. The sentiment is also from Hero Arts. I am entering it the Hero Arts May contest.

Flowers Amongst Flowers...

2011-05-03T12:22:00.000-05:00

The Penny Black Blog’s weekly challenge is to “lift” a card by one of their designers. I choose this card. I used my Marvy brush markers to colour the PB stamp. I misted it with water and stamped it on some watercolour paper. To get most of the image, I had to rotate my square die to cut this out. I used Antique Linen to ink up my letter stamp and stamped it on the patterned paper underneath the image and mat. The pp is from MME Stella and Rose collection.
I am entering this card in three challenges: Penny Black blog, Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog (Anything Goes) and Penny Black Saturday Challenge (Milestones – I am celebrating 19 years of marriage to a wonderful man.)

Hero Arts April Contest B

2011-04-28T12:53:00.000-05:00

I managed to finish my entry for the second half of the Hero Art April Contest. It is a masculine Gift Card holder. I made two of these earlier this month for my dad and nephew - they each received a Tim Horton's gift card. I forgot to take a picture of them, so I had to make a new one for the contest. Luckily, my new Bo Bunny paper arrived in time for me to use it on the card. :) I used my Hero Arts sentiment stamps for the inside and front. Check out the Hero Arts Flickr Group to see all the wonderful entries!

Emboss it!

2011-04-26T19:30:00.002-05:00

Well, here it is Tuesday night and I am just submitting my entry for the Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog (which ends tonight). It has been another busy week and I was lucky to find a little time while baking buns to finish my card.
The theme this week at Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog is Emboss It. I embossed a square piece of cardstock and turned it so it stood out more. I stamped the sentiment in black and embossed it with clear embossing powder - gives it a little shine. :) The image is one of my new ones from Penny Black. You might have noticed that the button does not have any thread through it...the first button broke and I had to add a new one after the card was done. I guess I could have glued a piece of floss on...I'll have to try that later.

I just noticed that the sentiment looks a little blurry. If you click on the picture and see the larger image, you can see it clearer - I guess the shine is what makes it blurry.
Edit: Sorry, the contest ends Wednesday at 8:00am CET, not last night.

For a Child and Masculine...

2011-04-19T06:54:00.001-05:00

It is another busy week and unfortunately I don't have as much time as I would like to make some cards. Luckily, yesterday I was able to find a little time and made a card to enter into two challenges: Hero Arts April Challenge - Masculine and Simon Says Stamp Challenge - For a Child.

My daughter was home yesterday and told me what image I should use and how to lay it out. It was nice to see her show an interest in it. :)
I'm off to school to help the kindergarten kids make some Easter cards for their families. Have a great day!

The Daily Marker Blog Candy

2011-04-18T09:06:00.000-05:00

Kathy, at The Daily Marker, is giving away some wonderful blog candy! I have a picture of it on my sidebar. Check out her awesome blog, full of beautiful cards and great tutorials!

New MME papers!

2011-04-14T14:55:00.000-05:00

I just got my new papers from MME and I'm really excited to use them! I bought Stella and Rose Gertie (the one I used for this card), Hattie and Mabel. I coloured the ribbon with my copic YR23 - after hearing so many other people say they colour their own ribbon I had to try it myself. It is definitely easier than having so many different coloured ribbons to store.

I'm entering my card this week in two challenges: Card Patterns Sketch 110 and Penny Black Saturday Challenge - Say it with Flowers.

While Searching for New Ideas....

2011-04-08T22:30:00.000-05:00

I came across a link to Cathy's blog, Ellieskeepers Creations. She is giving away some awesome items and I thought I would enter for a chance to win.
I really like her blog (from what I've had a chance to read so far) and she has made many beautiful cards! While reading through, I realised that I have seen some of Cathy's wonderful cards on other blogs (like Basic Grey).

Simon Says Stamp Challenge - Domi's Sketch

2011-04-04T14:34:00.000-05:00

This week at Simon Says Stamp, the challenge was to use a sketch by design team member, Domi. I made a slight change to it because I like using the scalloped dies and don't have any rectangular ones. :) I used a Penny Black Christmas stamp (I bought them recently and have been wanting to use them!) The paper is from Bo Bunny. I made a mistake and put adhesive on the wrong side of the inside square...and I couldn't change it. I really wanted to use the side with the purple and green Christmas trees. The center paper blends in too much and the snowflakes don't have quite the same effect. I didn't have time to re-do it, though, and I really wanted to enter this week's challenge.

Penny Black Challenge

2011-03-27T15:51:00.000-05:00

For this challenge at The Penny Black Blog, the theme is background stamping. I used my new paisley stamp on the green cardstock to add the pattern behind my stamped image. The green and yellows I used make me think of spring and sunny days - something which we haven't had a whole lot of lately. :)

Birthday Challenges

2011-03-22T12:21:00.000-05:00

Quick post today. I only have a little time before I have to leave and pick up my daughter.

I am entering my card in Simon Says Stamp Challenge and Hero Arts March Contest. The sketch is from Card Patterns - sketch 107. I am also entering my card for that challenge.

The cupcake is Hero Arts. The sentiment is Recollections.

Penny Black Challenges

2011-03-18T08:24:00.000-05:00

The theme for this week's challenge is Green at Penny Black Saturday Challenge . I used PB's Yearning. I know I use that stamp a lot, but I only have a couple PB stamps . . . for now.

I am also going to enter it in the Penny Black at Allsorts March Challenge - Welcome Spring.

Hero Arts Monthly Contest

2011-03-17T09:48:00.000-05:00

Last month I never got the chance to make and enter a card for the Hero Arts Contest. This month I have finished in time to enter the contest for the first half of the month. All I had to do was use a Hero Arts stamp and upload it to their Flicker Hero Arts group.

Card Patterns Sketch 106

2011-03-17T09:37:00.000-05:00

I really love this paper, called 'Up, Up and Away', from Kaisercraft. I thought I would use it to make my card for the Card Patterns Sketch 106 challenge this week.

Penny Black Sparkle Challenge

2011-03-15T20:13:00.000-05:00

Well, I won't miss entering this week's PB Challenge. I used glitter around my image (PB's Yearning) and also on the hearts around the sentiment (Hero Arts). I don't have any sentiments from Penny Black yet.

Anything Goes....

2011-03-15T19:57:00.000-05:00

The current Simon Says Stamp Challenge (which ends tonight) is 'Anything Goes'. I originally made this entry for a different challenge that wanted a colour combination (teal, purple and orange), but I ran out of time. So I figured I would enter it for the Simon Says instead.
I used my PB stamp Yearning, added a couple orange flower brads and a bow over the stamped 'Hello'. It's hard to tell in the photo, but the watering can is purple and the blue mat is the closest I had to a teal colour.

Card Patterns Sketch 105

2011-03-11T15:10:00.000-05:00

I bought some beautiful paper from MME a few weeks ago and finally decided to use it to make a card using Card Patterns Sketch 105.

No Cook Recipe Challenge

2011-03-08T20:45:00.000-05:00

This week at Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog, the challenge is a no cook recipe. The entries require: 1 image, 2 patterned papers, and 3 different types of embellishments.

I almost missed submitting my entry (it's been a busy week!)

I used a PB stamp, "...your birthday", two different papers - but from the same pack (sorry, can't remember where I got them from) and for the embellishments I used red brads, ribbon and a red button. :)

Coffee and Cream...

2011-02-24T16:08:00.000-05:00

Inspired by Simon Says Stamp challenge - Coffee and Cream, I made the following card:

I used my PB stamp, Yearning, and coloured it with my copics (warm grey and earth tones). I used My Mind's Eye Union Square "Perfect" Damask print paper.
I am entering my card in the Simon Says Stamp Challenge (Coffee and Cream) and the Penny Black @ Allsorts challenge (Say it with Flowers).

Card Patterns Sketch 103

2011-02-22T21:06:00.002-05:00

Happy 2nd Anniversary to those at Card Patterns! I've only been visiting their blog for a short time, but it is such a great blog - great sketches, wonderful designers.

For sketch 103, I have chosen to make a card that can be used for a boy's birthday. I haven't made a lot of those and find them a little trickier to make - as I tend to want to add flowers and gems.

I am also entering this card for the Penny Black Saturday Challenge - Mens Cards.

Sorry about not having a different title on this post to include the Penny Black challenge! I realised too late.
I just realised that I did not use a PB image/sentiment for this card. So I cannot be part of the PB Saturday challenge. Sorry about that.

Cardabilities Card Sketch #25

2011-02-17T21:06:00.003-05:00

I bought a new PB hedgehog stamp yesterday and wanted to try colouring it a little differently than normal. I stamped the image in Memento Rich Cocoa and coloured it with my Copics (W-3, W-5, E08 and E11). I started making the card with another image in mind, but once I bought this one I knew it was perfect for the card.

I'm entering it in Cardabilities Card Sketch #25. I really liked the DT's cards - Holly's and Rhonda's especially.

Sorry it looks a little crooked - I photographed it on the same colour background as the base of the card and when I trimmed the picture I realized I couldn't trim it exactly square, and it's hard to tell the background from the base. :)

Penny Black Saturday Challenge Week 138

2011-02-13T13:56:00.002-05:00

The challenge this week at Penny Black Saturday Challenge is 'Pretty in Pink'. I used PB's hegdgehog stamp, 'Yearning'.

Simon Says Stamp Challenge

2011-02-08T14:36:00.002-05:00

"LOVE IS IN THE AIR" is the theme at Simon Says Stamp Challenge Blog. I've entered my card in their challenge.

Card Patterns Sketch 101

2011-02-07T16:05:00.003-05:00

I really like the sketch this week at Card Patterns and wanted to make a card with it as soon as I could.

I have also entered this card in the Penny Black Winter White Challenge.

Sketch Challenge 100

2011-02-04T09:47:00.002-05:00

It is the 100th card sketch challenge at Card Patterns. I liked the sketch and decided to make a card(I have a few family members who have birthdays coming up.)

Penny Black Stamp

2011-01-27T19:53:00.002-05:00

I really love the Penny Black stamps. They are hard to find around here, so I ordered my first one from a store near London. I just love it and can't wait until I get some more!

Card Sketch #22 Challenge

2011-01-25T09:40:00.006-05:00

I'm new to making cards, and I'm really enjoying it. I've been finding all kinds of amazing cards on blogs and I also found this challenge. It is Cardabilities Sketch Challenge. It is my first challenge, and I had a lot of fun making the card.

New Year

2010-01-26T11:19:00.003-05:00

With the new year comes new goals. My first was to join SCBWI, and I did - a few weeks ago. I also joined the listserv for the Eastern Canada members of SCBWI. :)

As for my writing goals, I need to finish editing my first mg novel and find an agent. I already have one in mind - but I need to make sure my novel is ready. Then I can continue writing my second mg novel.

I still plan to write and submit short stories, but I have been enjoying writing longer stories.

Long overdue post...

2009-08-14T13:17:00.004-05:00

Benches are very uncomfortable. It wouldn't be so bad sitting on the hard benches if the temperature was more reasonable - not a muggy 90+F. The only reasons to keep me from moving to the comfy couch in the air-conditioned lobby are my kids. I enjoy watching them during their swimming lessons. Some parents read, some watch...I sometimes write, though.

Last week, during the swimming lessons, I got a few more characters written - I need to develop 8 characters. I figure the best way to do this is to write an introduction for each one. I can then see how they react to the MC and interact with the other characters. I wrote a couple lines describing them, but that didn't help me understand their personalities. I need to see how they behave and the only way to do this is to start writing a couple pages of the story. Each character meets the MC in the same way - at the MC's front door. So far I have five completely done and I have a better grasp of how each of the children think and behave. I don't know if I'll use any of those pages in the story, but it definitely helps me understand each of these characters.

I have strayed from my goal of submitting this year. Once I have all my characters written, I will have to start submitting again. :)

Great start to the new year!

2009-02-04T11:21:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, I got my first acceptance of the new year. The story I sent to Stories For Children was accepted. I am very excited and cannot wait for the May issue to come out!

The New Year...

2009-01-03T17:38:00.010-05:00

With the new year comes a new goal - a goal to edit and submit the manuscripts that I have been neglecting over most of the past year. I have already submitted one story and have two more that just need to be printed and mailed.
In November I attempted to write a 50000-word novel (Nano) and did not succeed. But I did find that I really wanted to finish a novel that I started writing several years ago. I read through the chapters I already had and the long timeline I wrote (so I wouldn't forget who all my characters were and how they were related to the main character.)
I would also like to continue editing my first complete novel. I did submit it once - but was rejected. Part of the problem was that I did not submit it to the right publisher. Although the guidelines said they accepted humour, I could not find any humourous novels in the books they have already published in that category.
The publisher I think would be perfect for this book is currently not accepting unsolicited manuscripts or queries. So I am watching patiently for an update on their site, while also looking for another publisher for this novel.

Updated my links

2008-09-29T09:07:00.003-05:00

I have updated all the links at the side by removing the links that no longer work. I have also edited a few of my past posts, but not all of them.

If you would like to read one of my stories whose link is no longer available, just post a comment and I can post the story.

My story is out in Wee Ones!

2008-05-01T08:59:00.003-05:00

This will be my last story published with Wee Ones; they will be closing at the end of the year. My first story was published in Wee Ones in July 2004. I want to thank the editor, Jennifer Reed for giving me the courage I needed to continue submitting my stories. I will miss Wee Ones.

Don't forget to stop by Wee Ones and read my story, Close To My Heart.

Thanks!

In April...

2008-03-31T08:06:00.003-05:00

Earlier this month, I was sent an email from V.S. Grenier, editor of Stories For Children online magazine. She informed me that I won a "Granny Award" for my September 2007 story, Wind-Song. I'd like to say thank you to the Editorial Staff. :)

In their April issue, they will be announcing all the winners in the different categories. Congratulations to all the writers and illustrators receiving this award.

Happy New Year

2008-01-08T12:13:00.000-05:00

Over the last few months I have had to put my writing on hold. Now that the holidays are over, I plan to get right back into writing. I'm also working on another course through ICL.

Hopefully I will get a chance to update my blog this week. I'll add the links to my stories from September, October and November. :)

As summer holidays come to an end...

2007-08-27T19:23:00.001-05:00

I look forward to the month of September. In Stories For Children online magazine, my story Wind-Song will be available to read. It is a touching story about a young girl who remembers the day she had to say goodbye to her grandmother.

I also look forward to their October and November issues that will include my first article A Life Saving Plan and my story Matt's New Bike. This is a wonderful e-zine to share with your family and friends. :)

Wow, I missed almost all of July...

2007-07-31T12:01:00.002-05:00

With the kids home for the summer holidays, I have not had much chance to get on the computer.

I know this is quite late, but my story The Mouse Catcher can be found in the July issue of Fandangle Magazine. It will be in the archives after today, so I will change the link at the side in August.

In August, look for my story The Fairy and The Frog to appear in Stories for Children.

A good month...

2007-06-06T14:11:00.001-05:00

June is here, and with it comes good news. My story, Wind-song, has been accepted for the September 2007 issue of Stories For Children.

Wind-song was written with a special person in mind. Although it is fiction, the emotions are very real.

Now available online is the June issue of Stories for Children. This issue includes my middle reader short story, Lizzie's Lemonade Pops.

End of May...

2007-05-28T09:55:00.001-05:00

Coming up in a few short days, my story, Lizzie's Lemonade Pops, will appear in the online children's magazine, Stories for Children. Please take a look at this great new ezine.

Spring is here?

2007-04-11T08:57:00.000-05:00

I was almost fooled by Mother Nature into thinking that is was spring. The snow had melted with the rain's help, and the temperature was above zero degrees Celsius. But, as always, the colder temperatures returned with the company of a chilling wind. Soon more snow was covering the ground. Today, the 11th of April, it is cold and damp. The forecast calls for more snow. Definitely a practical joke by Mother Nature.

I am late in posting my story, Ginger Rose, Please Raise Your Hand in the April issue of Fandangle. This issue is full of great stories and articles for you and your children to sit down together and read.

I have a story, The Fairy and the Frog, that has been accepted for the August 2007 issue of Stories for Children. This is a newer ezine for children. Check out it's first issue!

Acceptances...

2007-01-30T12:43:00.001-05:00

I have had a busy month with submitting my short stories. The editor of Fandangle Magazine had accepted my story, "Ginger Rose, Please Raise Your Hand," for her April 2007 issue.

I also received an acceptance from the editor of Wee Ones. She accepted my story, "Close to my Heart" for the Family issue, May/June 2008. It is a long wait, but well worth it. :)

Cecil Child's January Issue Online

2007-01-09T08:12:00.000-05:00

My story, "Max and the Cottontails" can now be read at Cecil Child. Unfortunately, there will not be a print issue for this January/February issue. I was hoping for the print issue, but understand how busy things are around the holidays. There are lots of great articles in this issue, so don't forget to drop by and click on the magazine cover.

January 2007 Fandangle is out!

2007-01-04T22:31:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to the editor of Fandangle, Nancy Cavanaugh, for a wonderful job on her magazine. Be sure to stop by Fandangle Magazine and read my story, "I Wish I Was a Snowflake" as well as all the other great stories, articles, poems and activities in the magazine.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T14:04:00.000-05:00

January 2007 will be my first time for a story published in print. I am very excited about my story, "Max and the Cottontails" that is coming out in Cecil Child this month. The editor said she will send me a copy of the entire magazine.

I also have a story coming out this month in Fandangle, "I Wish I Was A Snowflake."

As soon as the new issues are online, I will post a link.

Wee Ones has opened up to submissions for 2008, so I better get busy writing. They now have a theme for each issue. :)

November Issue is out

2006-11-01T10:23:00.000-05:00

The November issue of Fangangle Magazine is out. This is a great magazine filled with stories, articles, puzzles and crafts. You can read my story, "No Peanuts Allowed" at Fandangle Magazine.

Coming in November...

2006-10-30T11:34:00.000-05:00

November is only a few short days away. I have a new story coming out in Fandangle Magazine, called "No Peanuts Allowed." I wrote this story because it's hard for children to understand how serious some allergies can be. It seems hard for some adults, too. There are a lot of children who enjoy eating peanut butter for lunch at school. But what about those children who have peanut allergies? Would you still try to sneak in a PB & J sandwich? No one would know, right? Anyways, what harm could one sandwich do? Erika learns that we have rules for a reason when the student with the allergy is exposed to some sticky peanut butter on a pencil. She understands the importance of following the 'no peanuts' rule and realizes it is not the new student's fault.

New for October

2006-10-06T09:07:00.000-05:00

Although the weather isn't cooperating, October promises to be an exciting new month. I have two new stories online this month. The first one (rebus) is "Anna's Homemade Pizza." It is online for the month of October at Fandangle Magazine.

My second story, "It's a Dog!" is available online at StoryBox. This is a great new online story library created by the talented Kevin Scott Collier. Thanks so much to Kevin for all his great work!