Diann's ARTspot

Sending Good Cheer!

2012-01-30T08:17:00.003-05:00

My friend, Peggy, and I were recently at a crop sponsored by our Church....many were doing their lovely scrapbook pages but I don't scrapbook so I decided I would help Peggy catch up on some of her stuff...she brought nothing thinking she would help me with cards! Luckily I did bring a few things for cards and we enjoyed time working on Cheer cards! Peggy took home a couple, and so did I but the great time of friendship was what it was all about. I truly goofed when creating this one - the script stamp didn't cover as much of the red as I had hoped for and it looked a little off...soon as I got myself home, I searched for jut the right something and came up with the sweet bee! On the inside it will simply say, Bee Happy! It will become a Cheer card that we hope will bring happiness to someone in need! Thanks for stopping by and Enjoy your day! Diann

Sympathy Card!

2012-01-26T07:15:00.002-05:00

A friend in our Sunday School class recently lost her mother and I was asked create a card for her from our class. This card was presented to her in our class and we also did a luncheon after Church. It's not easy to create sympathy cards but it was easy to create for Liz...a wonderful sweet person that took wonderful care of her mother! I pulled out my Mariposa paper pack, made a selection and went from there adding lace, raised flower and butterfly to accompany the With Deepest Sympathy stamp. Inside was a message from the class. We all hope this card conveyed the feeling we wanted her to receive that we were there for her and cared. Thanks for your visit and I hope you'll come again soon to see my ART! Enjoy your day! Diann

Birthday Card #2

2012-01-22T06:03:00.002-05:00

I promised to share a man's card from the same image I used in my previous post...a totally different look, but still a nice card! What do you think of my using the same Graphic Fairy image for both male and female??? I hope you'll agree that there are just so many ways to use these wonderful images that great people share! Give it a try one day...pick an image and use it for cards to see how many different looks you get! Enjoy your day! Diann

Birthday Card #1

2012-01-20T05:05:00.005-05:00

I'm loving this birthday card ... you know I just love birds in my ART so when a friend (thanks, Shirley) passed this lovely image on to me from The Graphic Fairy, I knew just what I was going to do with it! I'd been asked to create a couple of birthday cards in my Sunday School class - one for a lady and one for a man - and I knew immediately this image would be the base for both of my cards! This is my lady card going to a special lady, Debra - she touches my heart and does so much good...you got it...I wanted the card to be as special as she is! Using a Spellbinder die I cut out the scanned image, distressed it a bit and then moved on to other elements on the card. From the same card stock that I printed the image on, I used my MS punch to create a border that I also distressed a bit. Next I added a bit of silver German Scrap across the top of the vine border to bring out the blue of the bird. All elements were attached to a piece of green dotted swiss background paper...this pulled it all together...it all was adhered to a distressed cream card. I added the dimensional blue flowers to enchance the bird image and to complete the card. Yes, I do want to know what you think of my lady birthday card??? As always, thanks for visiting my blog! Stay tuned for the man birthday card I created using the same blue bird image...a totally different look! Enjoy your day! Diann

Valentine Tag!

2012-01-17T05:32:00.004-05:00

I've always enjoyed creating tags-wonderful tags..in fact, at one time they had just about taken over my creativity so I slowed down with them, but I'm always happy to create a tag! Do you recognize the background paper I used here? It's the same I used for the Valentine ATC's I recently completed.....still trying to use what I have. I've decided that I could open my own store and that I'm going to curtail my spending...I'm now on a spending budget! The forward scrapbook paper is just awesome - it's Vintage Valentine by Nancie Rowe-Janitz and it did rather speak for itself so I added another of the K&Co embellishements that I used on the ATCs - this one says, BE MINE! A heart, lace, funky fibers and my MS punch at the bottom finished out the tag! This is going to my friend, Sandy, and I'm so hoping it will make her smile! Yes, I do want to know your thoughts??? Thanks for your visit and come again as often as you like! Enjoy your day! Diann

Valentine ATC's!

2012-01-14T06:45:00.002-05:00

Over in ARTHaven I joined in for a round of Valentine ATC's! I admit that ATC's are not my favorite ART form as I find them so small and it limits my creativity...I just need more space! Now that I've clarified that, I'm sharing a couple that I created! Each are basically the same but a tad different with each having a unique K&Company Valentine adhesion! I started with neat background papers that I had used in another project ...stamped each with a favorite old stamp (love anything with postcard on it!) - decided not to add more color but to let the color from the word adhesion and and the pink cardstock be enough ... but then added a Valentine too! For a person that just doesn't enjoy the ATC process, I was pretty satisfied and hope they will be well-received! Enjoy your day! Diann

Valentine's Are Here!

2012-01-09T07:48:00.003-05:00

My ARTspot has the colors of Valentine's all over and I'm creating away! I had the most fun creating this card for a swap over in ARTHaven...it is heading to Australia to my friend Wendy! I fell in love with the background paper from Best Creations Inc and it is actually Christmas paper...yep, it has Merry Christmas written right on the bottom! However, I had a different eye when I looked at it and here I am using it as Valentine paper...love it too! I added a black border and circle inset along with the black heart lock and keys...just felt the black was the perfect offset! The cream ribbon had an elegant look to me and I liked it with the Fleur de Lis die from spellbinder. I'd had a little trouble using this die in the past as it was not releasing well but I'm finding less problems as I continue to use it and play with it more often. Yes, I do want to know what you think of my untraditional Valentine card??? The inside simply says (thanks to Hero ARTs), You Have a special place in my heart! It's a card that can be used for most anyone you care about this Valentine's Day! Enjoy your day! Diann

Getting in the Mood for Valentine's!

2012-01-06T05:17:00.005-05:00

While thinking of Valentine ART and Valentine's Day coming around next month, my thoughts drifted to all the people I know with big hearts...those kind, loving, giving, always there for you hearts! It made me realize how lucky I am to have these wonderful hearts in my life - so I created this card just for YOU and your special heart! I was playing around with my Martha heart punch and frankly just got carried away! I'm not one to throw much out so instead of trashing it ... I made a card from it and was pretty content with the results after adding the sentiment, a framed glittery heart and some sparkles! It's my way of saying thank you for your special hearts and for your friendships! I have a favorite old stamp that says, "Friends are kept Forever in the Heart" and I've always loved it because it is a wonderful true feeling! I'm trying to be a better friend this year and I'm lucky enough to have wonderful role models in my life! As you get in the mood for creating Valentine ART remember the many that touch your heart in a special way! Enjoy your day! Diann

The Sew Easy Tool

2012-01-04T06:19:00.002-05:00

I decided long ago that sewing was just not my thing! These strong words come from a person whose mother was a great seamstress and did such lovely work - she made me and my sister many beautiful dresses in our young days! I'm also the one that left Home Ec class vowing to never sew, cook or tend to a home...that sure changed except for the sewing part! When the little Sew Easy tool landed among my belonging, I knew I'd have to give it a try! Yes, I wanted stitches in my ART! I ended up with 4 different heads to make different stitches. After viewing some online video's, I sat down to conquer this little "quick & easy" tool for those that don't sew or have a sewing machine at hand to use...I'd say it conquered me! Even using a ruler, it took me 6 tries to get a straight line, but I did manage to create a card from my effort! The image was already printed and in my stash - not sure if or how I'll use this little notecard but wanted to share my Sew Easy tool try! Anyone out there have this tool? Have you mastered using it in your ART or has it mastered you??? I do admit to having fun with my Christmas goodies! Enjoy your day! Diann

Happy New Year, Friends!

2012-01-01T08:06:00.005-05:00

Here we are at the beginning of a New Year - Welcome 2012! I'm adding to my ART die cut collection this year and decided to share a set of my newest ones - These are the Spellbinder Nested Mittens and even though they arrived at the end of last year, they are new to me. I'm ordering one set a month of either Spellbinder or Sizzix in 2012! Unless, of course, you have a recommendation that I should try??? This does not count for the ones I received as Christmas gifts - my plans are to order mid-month and then to actually use these dies! I'm a little disappointed that the intricate details of the top two small mittens didn't cut out...anyone know how to remedy that? I put a little padding under them for a second try but the slits are not cut through. I'm personally loving that big boy and am glad to have these. Wishing you all a happy, healthy and ARTful New Year! Enjoy your day! Diann

Until the New Year!

2011-12-29T06:29:00.002-05:00

I'm so hoping that each of you had the best and happiest Christmas! It was a really nice one at our home and we enjoyed family and friends, plenty of good food, and Santa was real good to us. The card I'm sharing today sorta rounds out my ART for this year unless I have a banner day in my ARTspot today! While the Mariposa papers and embellishements made a lovely card it was for a sad occasion...the death of a good friend's aunt during the holidays.

I wanted to take the time to thank each of you that pop in occasionally and leave comments on my blog...your friendship has meant so much to me this year. I'm hoping to continue blogging in the upcoming year and hope you will continue to grace me with your visits. I wish each of you a wonderful new year - Happy 2012!

Diann

Wishing You a Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T00:28:00.003-05:00

It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!

I'm hoping each of you that spent time viewing my blog and commenting on the ART on my blog have the best of holidays - a blessed holiday!

See you in the New Year! Diann

And yet Another!

2011-12-16T07:20:00.003-05:00

You will probably be glad when the new year arrives and I'm through sharing the tons of cards I created this year. This is also an image from Valerie Brinkcheck - I posted a link back to her wonderful sharing blog yesterday so please do check it out! Merry Christmas! Diann

and Another!

2011-12-15T06:40:00.004-05:00

Yep, here's another and there will be more to come! It seems I have been making Christmas cards forever and just when I thought I was done...I realized I was a few cards short and was back at it! This card was created by a beautiful Victorian image from Valerie Brincheck and her lovely and giving blog! I could not pass up these Christmas bells and hope those I sent these too will enjoy them too. What do you think of them??? I so hope you are enjoying the Christmas season! I sure am! Merry Christmas! Diann

Here's Another....

2011-12-13T05:41:00.003-05:00

of the Christmas cards I created this year! I've just had the best time with these this year and if I never ever do it again, I've so enjoyed it! With this card I can just picture Santa (in the corner) having just delivered those wonderful gifts for someone special! This is another of the lovely Graphic 45 images - it just couldn't help creating a lovely card! Well, as it says: accept from me a bundle of good wishes for your Christmas! Merry Christmas! Diann

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

2011-12-07T07:44:00.003-05:00

It really is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Christmas cards are starting to arrive and it makes me so happy to know that I have mine done and mostly in the mail! And then it was oooops...forgot about Church and the GA's delivering cards within the church family to raise money for the Lottie Moon offering. This inspired me to get out the Christmas "Stuff" once again and make a few more cards...I really wanted to participate in this and there are many I could send a card to. This is one of my creations made from purely leftovers and I'm liking this card - what do you think??? Thanks for viewig my cards throughout the Christmas season and do stop in again! Merry Christmas! Diann

HoHoHo!

2011-12-06T18:47:00.004-05:00

I've just got to say again...I've had the most fun creating my
Christmas cards this year! Remember I did the one a day for a month and then made some extras too, but I've the need for more! I sat dawn last night and began working on another few that I want to send. I really love this one - once again I used the lovely BoBunny paper that I had on hand to get the old Santa image! This card is from cream cardstock but it appears white...sorry about that! It has an old vintage feel to it and that just makes me smile! What do you think??? How about you...are you about ready for Santa? Thanks for stopping by and for your comments. Merry Christmas! Diann

Gift Tags!

2011-12-04T06:13:00.004-05:00

The holiday season is right on us...I'm shocked to see that there are only 20 days until Christmas! But, you know what...I'm ready this year! It's a good feeling to now just enjoy the wonders of the season and not feel so stressed and rushed. I created these two gift tags and wanted to share them with you. I used the Tim Holtz Carved Ornament die for my base...stamped with a favorite Christmas stamp from a dear friend (SU-Christmas Postcard) and then cut ovals with a nestabilities die and stamped the to and from to complete my gift tags. On the smaller one I added a few tucked in branches and tied a gold string on each . What do you think???

How are you coming along with getting ready for Christmas this year? Thanks for stopping by... Merry Christmas! Diann

Hanging of the Greens!

2011-12-01T05:07:00.004-05:00

I created this special ornament to use in our Hanging of the Greens service at Church this coming Sunday night! We are to each bring an ornament that represents us to be put on our tree in the sanctuary. My sweet angel represents prayer within the family, hope for all and thanks to God. Anyone else having a Hanging of the Greens service in your Church this week??? Enjoy your day! Diann

Hark the Herald!

2011-11-30T11:45:00.002-05:00

Hark the Hearld, Angel's Sing is a favorite Christmas carol of mine and I was singing it in my head as I was creating this card...it finally became a full blown sing out loud song and I don't have the best of voices! I'm sure you will recognize the Graphic 45 image - it's so very peaceful to me! I have a couple of friends that really love angels and I dedicate this card to them...they know whom I'm speaking of! As always, I'd like to know...what do you think of my angel card??? Thanks for stopping by and do check in later on this week...it really is beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Enjoy your day! Diann

Here Comes Santa Claus!

2011-11-28T04:52:00.004-05:00

One of my all time favorite colors is navy blue so when creating this particular Christmas card, it cane together beautifully and just yells out to me , "Here comes Santa Claus"!!! I'm hoping it will be a fun card to receive! Since it is one of my favorites, I want your thoughts...what do you think of this card??? Now that the Thanksgiving holiday is over, it really is beginning to look a lot like Christmas! I'm in the early stages of decorating our home for Christmas...at least I've taken down and put away all Fall colors and the reds & greens are coming down and being put into special places! I'm debating whether to put out my snowman collection this year - you know...just for a change, but then I know my family will miss them and so will I - guess I've talked myself out of it. How about you...is your home all decked out in it's Christmas best yet? I'd love to hear all about it!

Merry Christmas! Diann

SPA - Candles

2011-11-27T05:59:00.004-05:00

The theme for our post card over at Sunday Postcard ART is Candles. My very first thought was the Christmas season and candles of hope...did not find a single stamp, image or accessory like that among my stuff! I decided to use birthday candles and rightly so because today is my husband's birthday - he is now officially medicare eligible ! So I do dedicate this post card to him! Check out all the other lovely postcards at Sunday Postcard ART...join in if you will!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Addressing Christmas Cards!

2011-11-26T06:30:00.005-05:00

I took some time during the awesome Thanksgiving holiday to begin addressing the Christmas cards I created for friends and family this year! This one show cases a Graphic 45 image and a Tim Holtz rosette! Click on the picture to enlarge for a better view. Best of all ... it could be heading your way and soon! I so appreciate all of you that support my blog - your friendship means so much! Thanks again for taking the time to view my 2011 Christmas Card Gallery! Check back in a couple of days for yet another!

Merry Christmas! Diann

Check out Rudolph!

2011-11-22T05:43:00.002-05:00

I'm continuing to share the Christmas cards I created for this year with you! The sweet deer on this card is from a Tim Holtz alteration die that is new to me this year...it's a favorite!

It made a nice addition to leftover card stock and festive papers I thought! I've been calling this my Rudolph card and should have place a red ball on the end of his nose for fun...maybe next time or I could still end up doing that! Even though there is no carriage I find myself humming, "Over the River and through the snow to Grandmother's house we go" - Thanksgiving is right around the corner and I've been busy getting prepared for that - I have much to be thankful for this year. How I love and appreciate family, friends and life!

Stop in later for another card - I'm enjoying sharing them with you! Enjoy your day! Diann

SPA - You've Been Framed!

2011-11-20T05:59:00.003-05:00

How fun to join in the challenge over at Sunday Post Card ART again! You've Been Framed was our challenge so I set forth to meet this goal...you know it is hard for me to discard ART pieces even if they have some flaws, so I rummaged through my scrap box and found this old cabinet card image I had used for another swap...this one with a flaw that caused me not to use it. Right behind it a bit was this brown cut out where I had used the inside at some point in time. It made a nice frame for this piece! I added the canceled postage stamp and my piece was complete making a nice You've Been Framed entry! What do you think??? Hop on over and check out all the entries to the SPA -you may want to join in. Enjoy your day! Diann

Christmas Button Fairy!

2011-11-18T08:58:00.003-05:00

Over in ARTHaven we had a Christmas Button Fairy swap and I wanted to share the one I created with you. This one was sent to my friend, Clara, and well-received! I could not get a real clear picture to share so hope you can make it out as I describe it to you. Hang on...there is a story behind this fairy. I was taking a look at all the Christmas things in our local WalMart a few weeks ago - I need nothing but I do so love Christmas! The button fairy swap has just been announced so was fresh in my mind. I saw this fairy or ballarina decorataed in gold or silver. Something clicked in this head of mine! I immediately asked my ever patient husband if he could drill a hole in this little doll...he said he thought for sure he could - no problem. Well, one of each color came home with me! I also found the gold and silver sparkly buttons in th WalMart.....the jewels and beads came from my stash! The wire with my buttons and jewels go up through the doll an wrap around her waist...hopefully they are pretty well hidden by her draped skirt. Anyway, this was super fun and I wanted you to have the chance to make one or two if you were interested!

Betcha can't make just one! What do you think of my Christmas Button Fairy??? Run on down to your local WalMart and good luck in your fairy adventure! I'd love to hear your comments! Enjoy your day! Diann

Christmas and Chrildren!

2011-11-17T07:29:00.004-05:00

Here's another of my Christmas cards for this year! How precious is this one with the children enjoying the tree! I just felt it was a fun card! Would this be a card you would like to find in your mailbox??? Thanks for stopping by and taking a peek! Enjoy your day! Diann

Vintage Feel Christmas Card!

2011-11-15T04:18:00.002-05:00

I'm enjoying sharing my 2011 Christmas card ART with you! I save most everything in a "leftovers" container in hopes of putting it to good use and I feel that I did just that when I created this card! The image came from a leftover piece of beautiful Bo Bunny paper that I layered on other pieces in my box to add to the cardstock base. I had just enough of the lovely vintage lace to make it work on this card...to me it was a perfect touch! Your thoughts on this Christmas card???

Thanks for stopping by and do come again as I have more to share with you! Enjoy your day! Diann

Gift Card Holder!

2011-11-14T06:45:00.003-05:00

I'm really enjoying getting ready for the upcoming holidays! A friend hosted a most fun swap that I want to share with you - She had us create a gift card holder using an empty toilet tissue roll! Now I admit that this just turned me OFF and I balked at the thought! However, I did save one or two just in case. I truly wanted to join in on the swap fun so decided on using an empty paper towel roll! It cleared my mind and allowed me to be a part of the swap...LOL! Inside you place your gift card and this one can hang on the Christmas tree if you like. Once I began this little project, I really had fun with it and hey...it is all about recycling...right? I can tell you now that I have made a couple others actually using the toilet tissue rolls and they turned out well too and I'll be sharing those too...you can't tell the difference! What do you think of this little project??? Stay tuned because I have several more cards of the season to share with you. How are you doing with your holiday ART, Christmas planning, shopping and all? Thanks for your visit and I hope to see you again in a couple of days! Enjoy your day! Diann

Christmas Card #5

2011-11-12T04:35:00.002-05:00

I'm sharing my 5th Christmas card with you today - sharing another that I used the Graphic 45 post card image - can't go too wrong with these beautiful images and you know I'm a post card fan! I continued trying to keep each of them unique with their own idenity. For this one, I added a background of Bo Bunny paper to the cream card and built up layers. Atop this one, I added a beautiful reindeer sporting a "Tis the Season" banner! It just made up quite lovely and it will be a joy itself to send these cards to friends and family! So, what do you think of this one???

There is something special about sitting down and creating your own Christmas card ART! Some of my crafting friends have been sharing their card ART and I find myself thinking, "Oh, I hope that one come my way"! Would this Christmas card put a smile on your face if it showed up at your home??? Hopefully so - that has been my goal! Enjoy your day! Diann

Veterans Day!

2011-11-11T06:43:00.003-05:00

Today we honor our Veterans! This is an annual US holiday where we give thanks to our Veterans (both living and dead) for their dedication and loyal service to our country. My husband is a Veteran, my daddy too and I have a grandson currently in the Navy. My husband and I visited our grandson this week and saw the air craft carrier he is on and that alone was quite touching...and I proudly salute all of you! Thank you for your service! Enjoy your day! Diann

Sunday Post Card ART - Shabby Chic

2011-11-09T12:02:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I've done Post Card ART - but it has

been one of my all time favorites! I stopped because it was all that I truly wanted to do! I've completed my Christmas cards for this year and needed to do a little ART just for me so I happen to take a look over at Sunday Post Card ART and here I am hooked again! This week's theme is Shabby Chic and I just had the right paper out on my table to achive this, I layered my favorite lady image and added the lace and flowers! This I may turn into a nice card front or it may go out as intended...a beautiful shabby chic post card! Thanks for taking a look and I'll be visiting your blog to see if you joined in the post card fun! Enjoy your day! Diann

Christmas Card Poinsettia

2011-11-09T04:46:00.004-05:00

Sharing with you yet another Christmas card I've created using Graphic 45 post cards! This one is layered several times and I've added the lovely poinsettia to the center! What do you think of this one??? It really was fun making my cards with the end goal of having each one a bit different. I hope you will stay with me as I share my Christmas card ART journey *** I promise that I will not forget Thanksgiving so do hang in here with me. Thanks for your visit and as always, I'd love to see your comments and read your thoughts! Enjoy your day! Diann

Vintage Christmas Card

2011-11-07T04:19:00.003-05:00

I created this lovely Christmas card with yet another beautiful vintage feel post card from the Graphic 45 papers. It didn't take much for me to fall in love with these post cards as they are my favorite! Yet, my goal was to make each one shine in their own light...be a little different from the first...you know the saying - step out and be yourself. Do you think I accomplished this??? I love the reindeer from Tim Holtz's Alteration dies "Reindeer Flight"... just a beauty and cut from the same background paper. The background paper is an old piece from Cosmo Cricket...I do believe this is my last piece and I'll miss its beauty! Thanks for stopping by and for any comments you care to leave. Come on back by in a couple of days and I'll share yet another post card Christmas card. Enjoy your day! Diann

Best Christmas Wishes!

2011-11-05T04:40:00.002-04:00

I spent the entire month of October creating my Christmas cards for this year - I was determined not to end up in the same situation I find myself most years - just a few handmade cards! This year I set a goal of making one a day during October and it worked for me! How fun it was to do ART every day with a wonderful end result! In fact, I still had "leftovers" on my work table at the end of the month and made a few more! I'm sure I'll still use some store-bought cards too as there are some beautiful ones to purchase. I began this project with a couple sheets of Graphic 45 paper that had beautiful images so it wasn't hard to get into the Christmas spirit. If you don't know, I truly love postcards and there were a couple on this sheet that I just fell in love with. Even though I knew I'd be using the same image more than once, I tried to alter each so they all had a different look to them. In this one, I played up the poinsettia stamp on the postcard! I've used this stamp for a few years and all I find on the wood is Santa-Rosa, CA #G-3341 but it is a beauty stamped! On my cream card stock I stamped it 5 times at different angles...colored with chalks and pencils, and sealed. Next I layered the postcard image onto a red layer and put this down in the center of the card. What do you think of this design - what would you have done differently??? Thanks for stopping by and chatting with me - Enjoy your day! Diann

Getting Ready for the Season!

2011-11-03T05:49:00.004-04:00

I've admitted that I'm a Paper-holic but I've also been told that I'm quite the organized person. At times I do beg to differ but planning does help me get loads of things accomplished in my life. Today I'm sharing my Christmas Planner that is already well-used this year and its only the beginning of November! Inside this little book I have covered most things that have to do with Christmas for me and my family - from shopping lists, Santa lists, recipes, gatherings, receipts, orders, ideas...my entire thoughts on Christmas are located right here! How do you keep up with getting ready for the season??? Yes, I'd really like to know - try a planner if you haven't done so. I know I just can't be the only one that writes everything down...oh, it's a paper thing for me! Enjoy your day! Diann

Christmas Card #1

2011-11-01T06:29:00.003-04:00

It's November and I'm beginning an adventure today of sharing Christmas cards I've spent the month of October making! I covered my ARTspot with beautiful Christmas papers, images, embellishments and just got to work. It's true that I make a few each year but this year I was determined to send handmade cards to my friends instead of store bought ones, which I have nothing against and will use often! I remember the feeling I have each and every time I open one myself that a friend has taken the time to create and send to me.....I wanted to share that warm cozy feeling of love too this year. One of these cards could be coming your way after Thanksgiving! I tried hard to change things up on each and every card even though the same image, background paper and embellishment is used more than once. Graphic 45 helped me bunches and then I was on a roll! This special card is made from the last of my supplies and its one of my favorites - there is sparkle on the trees and and swirls that may not be showing up in this scan. Thanks for taking this Christmas journey with me...I'm thrilled to have friends like you to share with! Sit back and enjoy Christmas with me and the other few ART pieces I share!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T06:08:00.003-04:00

I sat this same Halloween easel ART out last year and am still pleased to put it out this year as part of my Halloween decorations! I do hope it is a good night for all "Trick or Treaters" - a fun safe happy night for all! My candy dish is full (we've only eaten a bit) and just waiting for spooky faces to show up at the door! Happy Halloween everyone! Enjoy your day! Diann

To Welcome a Baby Girl!

2011-10-29T06:17:00.003-04:00

I'll be attending a baby shower next week and knew that I'd be needing a card too - here is what I created for the little one! I felt so fortunate to have this lovely paper that came in a paper pack called appropriately, "Sweet Pea"! I altered it a bit by highlighting the yellow duckie on the second row - Not sure if you can tell but it has a double layer that stands out a bit. I was accenting more of the pink and covered a blue background of the same duckie - it also gives the card dimension. The inside simply says, "Welcome Baby Girl" along with a personal note.

Enjoy your day! Diann

A Friend's Birthday!

2011-10-27T11:32:00.003-04:00

Early this morning while I was at my ART table I created this card for a friend's upcoming birthday - I personally liked the way it turned out and think it will put a sweet smile on her face! November is a busy month for birthday's among my family and friends, so I best begin creating a few more...in fact, I have another on the drawing table now! Thanks for stopping by and share your ART!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Halloween is Coming!

2011-10-26T08:39:00.003-04:00

Yes, Halloween is coming and I am ready! Well, considering I have already had to replace one bag of candy that hubby and I could just not resist! There are children in our neighborhood again and it will be a festive time! This is a card I made using an image I use about every Halloween because its a favorite of mine! I hope all of you have a fun but most of all, a safe time doing your favorite Halloween things! Enjoy your day! Diann

Fall ATCs!

2011-10-24T05:02:00.002-04:00

My friend, Penny, over in ARTHaven, recently hosted an ATC swap that I just couldn't resist even though doing the smaller ART isn't usually my cup of tea! I really couldn't resist this Fall themed fun and it was truly a swap where you create one for every player, send to the hostess, and receive one back from every player! I haven't added new ATCs to my binder in a while so this will be most nice! It also gave me the chance to use a new Tim Holtz Alterations die - ATC & Corners along with his Tattered Leaves die! And who would not enjoy the colors of Fall, so it has turned out to be a nice swap for sure!

We are beginning to get more color in our trees and I know the lovliest of times are right around the corner in our neck of the woods...can't wait!

I hope you have had time for ART this week so do tell me all about anything you have created this week. Thanks for stopping by and as always,

Enjoy your day! Diann

Clutch Purse!

2011-10-20T15:26:00.006-04:00

Over in ARTHaven we are having a paper Pocketbook/Purse swap and I eagerly joined in! Our hostess, Kathy, gave a couple patterns and there are also many to be found on the web...so, I got busy looking for what I wanted to create and came up with this clutch purse and really liked the results! I hope you can tell from the squashed scan but its from a single sheet of paper and closed with the help of magnetic discs. I really liked the fall colors in the paper and flowers too! I used decorative scissors to make the curved top. Inside you can add a note or it honestly would make a super gift card holder. I found this pattern here on Vicky's blog! Although quite different from many pocketbook cards I really like this one and will make more like it!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Something With a Lid!

2011-10-18T16:06:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I shared a note card that will be accompanying this pill box I created for my friend, Dee, over in An Affair with ART...she won the October Lottery and requested anything with a lid!

It was fun to decorate a store bought pill box for her to keep in her pocketbook and I do hope she will like it! Inside she can keep asprins or even a prescription medicine if she needs to. I can just picture her taking it out and opening the lid now!

Of course, this is raised quite a bit and doesn't allow for a good scan...the background is actually orange to make the butterfly show up better but it didn't scan that way.....oh well, this went out in the mail today! Enjoy your day! Diann

Just a Note!

2011-10-17T06:41:00.004-04:00

I'm sharing a little note card I created to go along with a gift I've made for my friend that won the Lottery over in An Affair with ART! There is a personal message for her inside and it accompanies the special gift I created for her theme for the Lotter...something with a top! I'll be sharing it soon but wanted it to have time to reach her first! This little notecard was cut from scrap papers using my nestabilities scalloped circle dies...love them! I do think this pretty little butterfly was in a gift bag received at the ARTful Gathering Retreat I attended in July and it does go well with the gift I'm sending! That's my ART for the day but I must share that I've been working on Christmas card of late...a little too early to share those on my blog but I will in December...which will get here fast! I may share one or two along the way so you will know I'm busy working away with Christmas cards! What ART have you been creating lately??? Can't wait to see it! Enjoy your day! Diann

Autumn in the Air

2011-10-14T04:29:00.005-04:00

Yesterday we were out riding through the country side just looking...and we did find Autumn in the air! It was a blustery day and as we rode the backroads with the leaves raining down on us...it was a warm cozy feeling yet a slight nip in the air reminded us the season is changing. As we looked at the farm land we saw pumpkin fields - some harvested and some still in their beauty! In the midst of fields with dried cornstalks, deer stands were set up right in the middle...didn't like that! Oh, and the rolled hay bales were just fantastic...love those! As we continued our journey we saw market stands selling the dried corn stalks, pumpkins and beautiful mums! All the homes had the beautiful colors of fall on their doors, yards and mailboxes! Yes, there were many Halloween decorations and I was amazed to think that these homes were not too close yet decked out for children and everyone to enjoy! The trees were not at the peak of color but enough that you could notice the change and ooh & aah at a few when the sun hit them...just lovely! Some trees were losing their leaves and even though I loved when they rained down on us I wanted them to hold onto them!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Discarded!!!

2011-10-11T04:34:00.003-04:00

Well...my title heading does sort of sum up my post today as we were to create a project using discarded product packaging! I think this made for a pretty good card...your thoughts??? I bought this package of 15 ravens from our local Dollar Tree for yep...$1. Now I'm using the product packaging in my ART too - how fun is that! I had to trim it up to fit my 5x7 card front, added the raven and it gives the appearance he is looking at or at least interested in the other birds at the window. The small orange flower has a purple center added and it covers up the fact there are 15 ravens in this package!

I put a little gold glitter on the bird and do appologize for the dirty scanner...it really shows on the bird! Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment! Enjoy your day! Diann

Here Comes the Elephant!

2011-10-07T15:08:00.003-04:00

It was fun to create a 4x6 postcard with an Elephant theme over in AAwART! I had previously used this wonderful Graphic 45 paper and had just enough leftover to create my postcard plus I added a center rubber stamp of an elephant that I've always liked. Don't you just love postcards? I'm a big fan of them and have tried to not just limit my ART to making postcards and tags...always fun to get back to them! Thanks for stopping by and taking a look...I'm off to visit your blog this afternoon!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Link Up for PINK!

2011-10-05T09:22:00.003-04:00

Today I am featured as a guest designer on Link up With Pink. This is a wonderful cause of supporting breast cancer awareness...it's been all around me - family and friends have been affected by this dreaded disease. I am not usually a guest designer any where but could not turn down the chance to bring awareness to even one person. I thank Celeste for the opportunity to share and be a part of her awareness campaign. It has grown so much but still needs your support so I do ask you to visit today and to even link up with Pink! My ART today is the journal I made for Celeste to take to a cancer center for someone to have to write or doodle their way through breast cancer...we all need to be able to write down our thoughts and plans and even our hopes for our future. God Bless you, Celeste!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Thinking of You!!!

2011-10-03T11:49:00.003-04:00

I sat down this morning and created a series of cards for friends that need to know that I'm thinking of them and that they are in my thoughts and prayers. Though the cards are simple in nature - yep, I used what I had on hand and many "leftovers", I am glad to have these to send out today! Inside is a note to each special person. The House Mouse stamps are ones I've had for years from Stampa Rosa...quite old but still convey a thoughtful message. I then added a little decoration to compliment each card...the base is from leftover cardstock and the front is a box of panels that I'm hoping to use up soon! It has always made me feel good to send out my ART cards, whether simple or elegant to friends I care about...I don't do this as often as I should but its on my list to become better at such! Who knows...one of these could be coming to you!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Welcome October!

2011-10-01T03:32:00.006-04:00

Happy October, friends!!! Over in An Affair with ART, we are doing an October Make & Take, and this is my version of our Autumn Leaves card! Lucky me can use this card for another swap I'm a part of! Instructions and a supply list is given but its up to individuals to create their own unique masterpiece! I did make a slight boo-boo on mine as I should have wrapped the sheer ribbon around the first layer of decorative paper so it would have shown up more, but not wanting to leave it out, I put it around the next layer...improvising! The most fun I had creating my card was making the two beautiful leaves (click on picture for a close up of them). Wow...they just popped! I know I could have saved a lot of time by using die cut leaves (Tim has some beautiful ones and some of the cutting machines do too) but I stamped mine, cut them out, and dressed them up with distress inks and clear embossing powder...loved the look! I copied the sentiment, printed it out and used Spellbinder die cuts for the ovals. What a fun card to create! Your thoughts???

Enjoy your day! Diann

A Special Day!

2011-09-29T10:25:00.004-04:00

It's a special day for sure because it is my youngest grandson's 15th birthday...Happy Birthday, Zack! I can hardly believe how time just rolls right by or how I became this age!!!

I'm sharing a card I created once again using my favorite friendship stamp and it will head out in the morning mail to my friend Jean...she recently had surgery and I'm sending her a hug with it. I loved the background ART paper and only found the one sheet of it in my stash. I used a nestibilities die for the shapes and used a punch I have for the dragonfly accents. Hope you like it!!! Thanks for stopping by and checking out my ART for the day!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Card for a Friend!

2011-09-27T08:51:00.004-04:00

I'm often needing an ART card that just expresses the friendship I feel so sat down this morning and created this one for a dear friend that just has a lot on her plate right now! It worked up quickly and came together well. The inner cherry/writing is from wall paper that I love to use. The friendship stamp is one of my all time favorites as it just expresses what I want to say many times...the recipient understands! Just have to ask...what do you think of this card??? Thanks for stopping by and I'll be blog hopping myself today!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Autumn Leaves

2011-09-24T06:40:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was the first day of Autumn and this year, I'm ready for it! It has just been so hot and humid the past couple of months that I'm ready for the cooler temps to come our way. And I'm celebrating those beautiful leaves that come with the Autumn/Fall season! Our area will surely have some beautiful colors a little later on - they are just beginning to show hints of turning and just thinking of all the lovely colors make me smile! Oh, we do have several that have already fallen...on a windy day this week it was like they were raining down on us! I made this pair of earrings to celebrate the season and would love to know what you think of them??? Here's wishing you a wonderful Autumn season!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Something to Crow About!

2011-09-22T06:52:00.002-04:00

I'm thinking I've just had too much ART fun getting ready for Halloween but I really know that isn't the case at all - I say it each and every year! This one is going to Kris as a swap exchange over in An Affair with ART - sure hope she likes it!

I again used what I had and liked the results if I say so myself. I dug into my paper to recycle pile and found Bazzil purple cardstock to create a 5x7 card. Then scrap paper that has a small purple polka dot in it. I then ruffed up the edges and used black soot distress ink around the edges. Used my old trusty Trick or Treat UM stamp and glued on Mr Black Crow from the $1 pack of 15 silhouette cut-outs I found this year at the Dollar Tree. I added the bright yellow to the backside for his eye! Well, what do you think of my Something to Crow About card???

Enjoy your day! Diann

Hello Pumpkins!

2011-09-20T05:10:00.005-04:00

One of my very favorite things about the Fall season is pumpkins! On the news lately they reported this would be a year of sparse and expensive pumpkins due to the fields of these beauties that were drowned and rotted by the rains of Hurricane Irene in the North - that gave me a sad feeling. Around here our pumpkins survived better but they are a bit delayed in turning their beautiful orange colors - but we do have pumpkins! I'm down to my last sheet of this beautiful Fall Pumpkins paper by Tim Coffey and it's on my favorite list too. In my ART I've made many pumpkin cards from it and now realize I'm so low...I'll be saving the one sheet for more pumpkin fun next year and I'll begin looking for more or another paper that might take its place! My card today has a few stamps of my favorite manuscript background, nestabilities oval dies, and a pumpkin cut from a K & Co border. Can't wait to see your pumpkin cards! As always, I want to know what do you think of my pumpkin card???

Enjoy your day! Diann

Trick or Treat!

2011-09-18T07:13:00.004-04:00

I've had fun creating Halloween ART with a last year's stamp and my new Tim "Bewitching Hour" die cut - it just brings out the witch in myself...hopefully, a good witch with loads of fun thrown in! I particularly love this Trick or Treat stamp but don't know the maker, unfortunately. I did purchase it from Archiver's last year so you may find them there this year if you are interested. It was also my first try using my new Tim distress ink, Black Soot - I liked it! I decided to showcase it as the witch on her broomstick riding by the moon screeching Trick or Treat and I'm wondering just what this witch will do! Will it be a trick or will it be a treat...just let your imagination run wild! Okay, just have to ask, what do you think of my card??? How many of you have this same stamp or die cut - if so, please give me some pointers on how you are using yours! Enjoy your day! Diann

Making Fun Earrings!

2011-09-16T13:35:00.004-04:00

Today is a cool Fall feeling day and I'm loving it. There is a chill in the air and a gentle breeze and we have had a few drops of rain too! I know it's only teasing us but what a nice change!I drug out my bead boxes and decided to play with beads for my ART for the day ... you know I've been in a Halloween mood and that hasn't changed...I worked on three different sets of Halloween jewelry. Thought I'd share some earrings that were just simple but oh so much fun! Some days I may qualify to wear the Witch earrings and on gentler days I'll go for the pumpkins with the happy faces! Which of the two do you like the best??? Thanks for your visit and come again soon! Enjoy your day! Diann

Make Some ART!

2011-09-15T09:58:00.003-04:00

My friend, Angie Haviland, won the September Lottery over in ARTHaven . Her beloved theme was for everyone to just Make Some ART and I loved it. She is not only a personal friend but one of the best ARTist I know of and creates the most beautiful things.....when she can find the time to be in her ARThaven.....she is blessed with a husband and three children that keep her hopping! I sat down to create a piece for her Lottery and of course, kept coming back to two images I had on my work table...I finally decided these three friends would be my choice for her ART...she can name the third friend but I think we know whom she would be! I rumbled through the leftover papers and found the beach chairs and my creation began to take shape! So, in the name of my buddy, I've just made some ART...it will be heading her way soon! What do you think of it???

Enjoy your day! Diann

Crayola Blue/Gray

2011-09-14T05:33:00.004-04:00

I've so enjoyed doing the Crayola colors and creating my own personal book from my ART!

I simply love this background paper and I am not even sure where it came from...found it and several similar pieces in my stash. I had the nearly same stamp and featured it as the heart of this piece. This reminds me of taking leaves and doing prints of paper...fun! Thanks for stopping by and for your comments as I always enjoy hearing your thoughts! Enjoy your day! Diann

Fall Inchie ART

2011-09-12T07:14:00.003-04:00

At times I really enjoy the inchie ART but at other times I'm truly scared of this tiny ART form...this was a good day! In fact, I really liked these. I choose my paper carefully and then inked color to the outside edges...each different to represent the colors of fall. I knew I was going to use the lovely metal leaf shapes I've had and kept for years now!I pulled out my favorite writing stamp and stamped over each inchie...that didn't quite do it for me so I next ran them through the Big Shot in an embossing folder and loved the textured look and feel of them. All that was left was to find my glossy accents and glue the leaves on to the base.These are going to my friend Barbara and I hope she will be as pleased to receive them as I was to create them and send them to her! Yep, I want to know.what do you think of my fall inchies??? Enjoy your day! Diann

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-11T07:34:00.005-04:00

Today marks the 10th anniversary of what is simply know in America as 9/11 and my ART reflects my love for America. It's the date our sweet land of liberty was attacked by terrorists.....a date that won't be quickly or easily erased from our hearts and minds. Most of us remember just where we were on this day and what we were doing - going about normal routines without a thought to danger on our own soil. I was home from school on this day and watched it take place on TV like so many others. My heart broke, I cried, I was afraid and it was just so unsettling to me and I was no where near NY, Washington DC or Pennsylvania. During this time, I was a substitute teacher at a middle school and was at this one school nearly every single day with few days off...but I was off that day. I almost felt like it was meant for me to watch this on television. Although I had no family member or best friend affected by this terrorist act, I suffered along with the rest of our great nation. The next day at school was so full of suffering because many of the students didn't know about grandparents, aunts & uncles, cousins...even a parent or two. It again just broke my heart but my role was to offer encouragement and be there for the students I loved and to carry on. How many hugs I received that day as I consoled students! Life has forever changed...we carry on but we never forget. God Bless America!

Enjoy your Day! Diann

Happy Halloween!

2011-09-10T06:07:00.003-04:00

Back to my Halloween ART using "leftovers" along with Dollar Tree finds to create! While in the Dollar Tree this past week, I found cute cut-outs for $1 per package - there was a flaw -each package contains 15 (3 designs per package) of either bats or ravens but only the top one of the 3 designs were cut through enough that you could punch out the eyes and accent marks. I have tried cutting the others out but most have torn beyond use. Getting one of each for $1 isn't bad but I do wish they had been cut well. These are fun for sure, aren't they! Yes, I want to know what you think of my batty ART???

Enjoy your day! Diann

Crayola ART Continues!

2011-09-08T05:44:00.004-04:00

Slowly but surely, I continue to work through my Crayola ART colors and this week I've completed the color, Torch Red. I'm having fun putting together this 5x5 journal of colors! I'm not normally a red person but love to use the color red with creams while ARTing and this image (found in my stack begging to be used) just fit the bill perfectly. In fact, I'd so much enjoy being this classy lady sitting down in my boatneck top, pencil thin black skirt, wide brimmed hat and way too dangerous high heels having some chocolate with a cup of warm tea - sounds good to me!

Well, what do you think - could this be you too??? I'm still playing with Halloween ART but have a couple of tags calling for my attention so stay tuned for more displays of fun this week. Thanks for your visit and come again soon!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Enjoy Halloween!

2011-09-06T08:01:00.005-04:00

Over the long holiday weekend, I found myself sitting at my ART table clearly being drawn to my Halloween goodies...this time it was the small cute image that I had left on my desk that got me once again in the mood. I used a black card for my base and added a panel of paper I had in my leftover bin with much orange in it. Once it was layered on my cardstock, I grabbed a six inch orange dollie and glued it down, next came the Trick or Treat ribbon (also on my desk) and then I just layered the smalled image and placed it in the middle. It's quite cute...even cuter in person because all the colors don't scan so well...it has a feeling of layers and textures and it puts a smile on your face!

Yes, I do want to know what you think of this card???

Enjoy your day! Diann

Halloween in the Round!

2011-09-05T07:00:00.005-04:00

I have some fun Martha Stewart Halloween coasters that were yelling out "please play with me" and that is just what I did! I created a fun little round Halloween ART booklet to sit out during the holidays...I've a tad of tweeking to do and then this could become a RAK to someone...could be you! There is nothing scary here but just some fun Halloween pictures and additions -even the one ghost has a friendly appeal! I have another to create and I'm planning to make it a tad more goulish...just for fun!

Thanks for stopping by and come often!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Celebrating Big Granny!

2011-09-03T14:21:00.004-04:00

Today I created a birthday card for my husband's mother and wanted to share it with you! She will be 86 on the 11th of this month and I wanted to create a special card for her. I've had time to play in my ARTspot today and just enjoyed the heck out of it and came up with this card for her...I'm so hoping she will think it's pretty!

Yes, I admit to having time to play each and every day but today has been extra special because football has begun and my hubby is happy as can be watching games - more ME time!

I love football too so I'll join him shortly.

For this card I used La Creme matstack on pale yellow cardstock.I've used the Fleur de Lis nestibilities die and attached a beautiful antique button in the center. I also used a nestie to cut out the Happy Birthday sign that is stamped on the same yellow cardstock. I don't use the La Creme matstack often because to me it is a little busy...just hope the Fleur de Lis doesn't make it too hard on the eye! Your thoughts please???

Hope you are having a very nice Labor Day Weekend!

Enjoy your day! Diann

September Has Arrived!

2011-09-02T04:09:00.003-04:00

It's probably just me, but when September arrives, I begin to think of Fall and the holidays to come! It's still hot as can be here, but it doesn't stop me from thinking of leaves changing colors, acorns, cooler days and did I mention holidays! Just to celebrate the arrival of September, I pulled out my bin of Halloween ART items and made this card! I'm a big Halloween fan as long as it is not evil, bloody or gory...just love the fun! I had many a good time doing the "Trick or Treat" thing as a kid! I'm also in a couple Halloween card ART swaps so this will be one of the ones I'll exchange! I have another Halloween goodie in the works too, but I'll leave that for another time! As always, I do want to know what you think of my card??? Wishing each of you a nice day and thanks for your visit to my blog...do come again!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Ribbon Spool Box!

2011-08-30T19:57:00.004-04:00

Have you ever just had something call out to you even when you knew you were not interested in it? Well...this was my feelings towards the Ribbon Spool Box and did it ever put me in my place...I absolutely fell in love with it! The pictures aren't very good and my camera died mid-way through so I scanned the top and bottom so you could get an idea of the complete package!

My friend, Celeste, is hosting this swap in ARTHaven and it kept calling to me - I love to take part in swaps and truly decided this was just not a swap for me...however, look at this completed project and tell me that I didn't have FUN! I had a blast and can't wait to swap it out! I love this very sturdy little box made from a ribbon spool...yes, the ones we throw away all the time. Even the Graphic 45 papers I used were in my stash, so no money spent to create this! I began by taking the top off and sanding the spool pretty good. All directions on the internet showed attaching the top with a ribbon but I didn't like it at all and think it is what turned me off in the beginning. Another friend, Eileen, had told me how easy working with the flexible grunge board so I cut a strip and glued it to the inner lid and it fits so nicely into the bottom portion - made a sweet box for sure! I then went out to my husband's shop and sprayed it all over with black spray paint. Once it was dry I brought it up to my ARTspot and the fun began! I used circle and circle scalloped nestibilities to cut my paper for the top & bottom - inside and out. Then I cut paper to go around adding a more colorful part in the center....loved this because the word "fashion" is right there! I added the flower & bead for accent.

Yes...I'm just eager to hear what you think of my box???

Enjoy your day! Diann

Just Another Pretty Card...

2011-08-28T10:23:00.003-04:00

or is it only that.....I'm hoping it will bring joy to a friend that needs uplifting at this time, so to me...that makes it pretty special in it's own right! It's also another way of me justifying the creation of another ART card when I already have so many in my stash that I could have used! I picked the beautiful butterflies up as a freebie and just had to create a card! Well...what do you think??? You know I love your thoughts and hearing from you!

I'm so thankful that Hurricane Irene has left us and I'm so hoping that everyone in its path is safe. Ironically, we have beautiful sun out today and much debris to be cleaned away.

Enjoy your day! Diann

Tassel & Smash Book Pages!

2011-08-25T19:19:00.006-04:00

I'm enjoying the learning curve of making pretty beaded tassels...yep...still learning! Here is the tassel I made today and as you can see I've already added it to my Smash book!

Unfortunately, I didn't take an up close & personal scan of the tassel itself...hope you can see it a bit here as its quite lovely.

I hope you can see the beautiful blue bead with the unique bead cap on top...added these with one of Tim's swivel clasps. I admit that I have not coordinated colors and you will see brass with copper and silver...just as hogpog of things I have here already. I'm going to make an all silver one next. I've also shown the first page I did in my Smash Book...sort of a silly page but just getting started. I've covered some of my writing because I told what my sister was going to do with the jar mix recipes she has requested...I don't think I was suppose to tell...LOL! I've also added the second page I have composed and smashed together...it features the great time I had with friends - where I learned to create these wonderful tassles I'm enjoying! It was wonderful to spend time ARTing and laughing with friends! Notice the tags in the pocket...notes they did just for me while I was with them! I used my bead lady stamp to really accent our day...slapped on a journal note page with a rubber stamp I've had forever and used about once - I'll be using it a lot in my Smash Book!

Well, we felt the Earthquake slightly this week and now we are preparing for Hurricane Irene ... always something!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Beaded Tassel - A Learning Process!

2011-08-24T02:34:00.003-04:00

I was most fortunate to spend time with two of my ART buddies from SC on Monday . Nancy and Claudia were in my area visiting a childhood friend and invited me to join them. I had so much fun meeting their friend, Diane, and ARTing away with the three of them...I did only one partial string for a beaded tassel they were creating but I came home and enjoyed the heck out of this fun project. Now my first one isn't as lovely as theirs but its a start and I fell in love with the process, so thank you ladies for introducing me to the ART of beaded tassels. Now most of you know that I love my beads and just have so many to use...tons of unused ones from other projects that I now know what to do with! This one will be a fixture on my ART board until I decide where to use it, but I'm now working on a shorter one to go on my smash book! What do you think of my first beaded tassel??? There are endless possibilities with the beaded tassels because they can be as big and full as you want and you can add charms, color coordinate them or just use up left over beads! I must say that the most fun of the day was seeing old friends, meeting a new friend, the laughter, sharing and those wonderful hugs only good friends can share!

Enjoy your day! Diann

A Treasure Found!

2011-08-23T15:26:00.003-04:00

Many of you know I've been cleaning out and re-organizing my ARTspot these last several days. I am the first to admit it needed this so badly but I'm also the first to admit that it seems strange...almost like it's not mine! I did find a few treasures while doing this and I decided to share one with you today. This is a card my son Michael (now 42) made for me while attending Wee Care at the Baptist Church...according to the sweet message inside, I'm pretty sure it was a Mother's Day card...Oh, what a treasure!

It's fragile and going into a zip lock bag now, but I wish you could see it upclose and personal. That's beautiful vintage lace glued all around the card and those are real stitches on the leaves. He is snaggled-toothed in this picture also...he was the sweetest little boy that any mother could have asked for! I'm so glad I found this and another box of personal goodies, but just had to share this one!

We have a hurricane headed towards us and there was an Earthquake in Virginia...oh my!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Smashing Away!

2011-08-21T07:11:00.003-04:00

My first so called SMASH book is underway and I'm so excited to begin this journey! I'll be sharing the process with you every now and then. I've been hearing so much about SMASH books but was not interested in the store-bought ones around and began to see where others were creating their own. This one is 8.5 x 11 and is made of various full sheets of cardstock - the most wonderful thing about this book is that my sister and I put it together when I was visiting with her prior to her major surgery last year - we were laughing and having a really good time, so it is full of memories to begin with (even though it is blank)! Didn't I just have the most perfect SMASH book right at hand???

So far, all I've done is add a couple pieces I liked to the front cover. I know I'm planning to do this by month beginning with August...there is still time for this month! When it is full, I'll do another if I am enjoying the format...I do not scrap book at all but do enjoying journaling so this is a new and interesting concept to me...wish me luck! I'd like a cute/catchy title, but it may end up as "SMASH This"! Anyone have suggestions to share??? Come back and enjoy this new adventure with me...hope it's a fun ride!

Enjoy your day! Diann

A Lottery Piece!

2011-08-20T06:28:00.003-04:00

My friend, Victoria, chose the theme "Summer Time" for the August Lottery over in ARTHaven. Whenever I think of summer my thoughts have always been of the SEA and all the wonderful joys of life you find there. I also knew I wanted to create and send her something she could keep and enjoy. While on a vacation trip to the SEA, I shopped at a bead shop in Wilmington and bought a few shell beads...among them this lovely starfish for a necklace. I found the silk cord at a bead shop in town and put together the necklace as a summer time keepsake for her! Wish with me that she will like and enjoy it!

Enjoy your day! Diann

Swap Challenge!

2011-08-17T07:11:00.002-04:00

Pink is the color for this swap...just a touch of pink somewhere on the card...not necessarily the focal point! I had the lovely imagine right at hand and knew I wanted to use this young lady on my card - she qualified with a touch of pink! I added the trim of pink German scrap and found a lovely background scrap that I felt would blend well. I'm hoping my friend, Shirley, will perhaps use this card for another friend - it will make a great card that you can stamp most any sentiment you care to on the inside! Well....what do you think???

Thanks for stopping by as I look forward to your visits and comments. I'm most busy doing a thorough clean out and re-organizing of my ARTspot...could take forever!

Enjoy your day! Diann

F is for Fairy!

2011-08-13T04:47:00.003-04:00

In my alphabet ART (I'm creating my own tag book), I decided the letter F would stand for Fairy...for no other reason than I just loved the Graphic 45 paper and it fit the bill! Now how is that for just telling it like it is just plain and simple! While I like faries, I don't usually get all squishy over them, but I did with this paper. Just thought of sweet little girls and fell in love with it! I'm really enjoying creating tag ART just for me and going through the alphabet has proven to be a fun way to create my tag book. You know I'm gonna ask...what do you think of it???

After many years, I've decided to clean out and re-organize my craft room...oh, it needs revamping! This process will take a goodly amount of time and effort but I'm made up my mind to begin this process...wish me luck! If I continue as I am...you might see me on one of those "hoarder" programs!

Enjoy your day! Diann

The Theme is "Cats"!

2011-08-11T05:58:00.004-04:00

Am I ever so glad I purchased this fun kitten unmounted stamp when I was at the ART retreat in Texas - I've now used it twice in a month's time! I'm allergic to cats and have just always stayed away from them but as I was shopping I tried to get a few UM stamps that I had nothing like to add to my collection...so far I've done okay with this one! I stamped the image using black ink onto a paint chip card called Cornucopia (yes, it made me & probably you think of Autumn). I thought the kitten showed up really well so next I layered this to an orange dotted paper that has a linen look. I didn't want this to turn out to be a Halloween project so I then grabbed a bright pink bookboard and mounted it to that....loved it! Next I adhered the entire piece to a black velour easel back, added a flower cascade in multiple colors and I'm all done! Well....what do you think??? I'm hoping Nancy will really enjoy this piece and sit out in her ART studio - maybe it will make her think of all the fun we shared at the ART retreat where I purchased this kitten!

Enjoy your day! Diann

ARTing Again!

2011-08-09T18:51:00.004-04:00

I'm in just under the deadline with my Dance Cards! Over in An Affair with ART, our latest fun mingle was to create two vintage Dance Cards and send these to two different partners. I have to admit, it took several rounds of research to make sure my songs were during the 1930's - I chose my own time frame. I really enjoyed putting this blue book together but I'm not very good with needle and thread and I wish they were more professional looking......pooh...I just can't make a straight stitch...LOL! I found the small pens at Party City and added a bead cap along with a few crystals and attached it to the book - I liked my idea! My second book is the same except tht it is green in color and has an attached green pen. All this so the lovely lady all dressed up for the grand ball can keep up with the men requesting dances throughout the night! The inside pages detail the type dance and provides space for the book owner to write the names of the men claiming certain dances...I just know mine will be full - I intend to have fun and dance the night away with several partners! Check out the inside pages and add your name if you would like to have me as a dance partner! Yes, I do want to know - what do you think of my dance card??? Click on the pictue to see it enlarged!

We had the best of vacations by the SEA...what fun and what a wonderful time we had with our son and two of his sons! Family is so important!

Enjoy your day!

Last of our Summer Vacation!

2011-07-29T08:35:00.004-04:00

We will be heading out around noon today for the last of our summer vacation - heading to our beach cottage on Oak Island!

We are super excited because our youngest grandson, Zachary, flew in yesterday afternoon and will be with us...his daddy (our son) will also get to the cottage this evening and its been a few months since they have seen each other so its going to be a nice family get-together! We are hoping our oldest grandson, Christopher (currently at SEA on the USS Eisenhower) will be back in port and perhaps can come down the last weekend to see his younger brother! Now if we could just be with our middle grandson, Caleb, for a few days!

The ART I'm sharing today is a sweet little tag I made while at my sister's ART retreat! I shared with you that so many little gifties were given and I took some of those goodies and created this sweet tag! I had the little girl image but the tag, butterfly and velvet ribbon were given to me...thanks so much to the giver! What do you think of this tag???

I'll have my laptop to keep up with the two groups I participate in but I'll probably not update my blog unless we make a quick run home overnight mid-week. We have been known to do this!

Enjoy your day!

Alphabet ART - C

2011-07-27T08:47:00.005-04:00

I'm going through the alphabet with the AAwART group creating ART that I enjoy and trying some new things too.

For this particular ART I'm using tags that I will create a tag book with once the alphabet is complet. I've already shared by A & B and today I'm introducing my C for Cat! I'm allergic to cats so never have much to do with them and didn't even own a rubber stamp of one....so, at the rubber stamp convention I attended in Texas, I decided to buy a few UM stamps of things I just didn't have around! Cats came to mind! It's a cute stamp of a cute cat and I'd probably enjoy one like this if I weren't allergic to them...for me, they are better on paper! How do you like this black cat??? I think I can have fun with him around Halloween too!

Enjoy your day!

Altered Book Covers!

2011-07-26T14:49:00.002-04:00

I've so enjoyed sharing the altered book I created at my sister's ART retreat - ARTful Gathering 2011! This isn't the clearest picture but you can get an idea of how the AB was put together. Our spreads were done on watercolor papers with each spread being a signature in our book...these were glued together and adhered to the book covers by 7 Gypsies. We used 3 pieces of ribbon binding to hold our book together...the top green piece, my sister dyed with re-inkers...I chose not to add anything else to my covers at this time but may decide to go back later and add the words GARDEN along side the butterflies and perhaps add one lovely flower to the backside. I really enjoyed the Conservatory papers we used from 7 Gypsies. That's it for my Altered Book but it will give me many memories of the friends and fun we shared at the retreat! I hope you have enjoyed this AB tour!

Enjoy your day!

Altered Book - Spread 6

2011-07-25T05:58:00.002-04:00

I can hardly believe I'm sharing the last spread of my Altered Book from the ARTful Gathering Retreat! This lovely spread was designed by Kris H. and I admit to changing things up a bit but it still has the look Kris intended it to be...the grand thing about altering a book with a group, is that you can make it yours in so many ways...I switched the bird cage using one I had brought with me in a darker color and used my own sweet little birds. The paper scrunched flower was indeed designed by Kris and its Tim's flower die doubled, wet with a spritz of water and dried to hold its shape.....closing the book altered that shape a bit but I loved the results - reminds me of a birds nest really! I also turned my small brown paper bag because I wanted to add the bird beside it...I just love the word BIRD and definition showing! It was a fun spread to create and yes, I want to know - what do you think of spread 6???

I'll share the book cover and more make N takes from the retreat this coming week so drop by to see those!

Enjoy your day!

Altered Book - Spread 5

2011-07-24T07:41:00.007-04:00

I'm sure hoping you can tell that I had a whale of a fun time creating ART in this altered book! Spread 5 is actually my page and it was that way for everyone. Jeri gave us this page to create our own spread using our lovely background papers along with "gifties" from our friends and just whatever we had brought and would like to include in our book! I just had fun! Don't forget to enlarge the photo so you can see all details! My sweet niece Whitney gave me the birds and feathers & I just wanted them in my book! The swirl stamp is my sister, Jeri's stamp that I just grabbed and used. The library card, heart pins, flower heads were all gifties from friends at the retreat. I made the pocket featuring the blue butterflies and filled it with flower seeds, the Hydrangea packet tag (my gifties + the blue bead butterfly you can see on the bird page) and thought it all just came together well! So...this is officially called MY Page! Yes, I would love to hear your thoughts ????? Can't you just imaine a garden filled with flowers, birds and butterflies - makes me just smile!

Enjoy your day!

Make N Take - Our Mini Garden Book!

2011-07-23T08:43:00.006-04:00

Each attendee was to create a tall skinny favorite flower ART page and from them we created our second mini altered book! We put these together with a ring after passsing them around and having everyone sign the back with a personal note.....how fun was that!!! Most of us also placed our name tags (created for each of us by Joan W) at the front of our book and it was super easy to keep up with as they were being passed around. Don't you just love the wire names and yes she did spell my name correctly - you go girl! I so wish I could share all the pages with you but I just picked a few so you could get a better idea of the book. Its a treasure because each page does represent a favorite flower but the back messages are just great! Makes you feel good just to pull it out and read and remember all the fun we had as a group! Can't wait to hear what you think of this little garden mini book...well, your thoughts??????

Enjoy the day!

Altered Book - Spread 4

2011-07-22T07:29:00.004-04:00

Our garden theme took on the form of garden ART with statues and good thoughts - this beautiful spread was created by Joanne H. I was drawn to this lovely spread but not quite sure why...could have been the peacefulness it represents or the colors within. It's the only page I did as one complete page instead of breaking it down to two and I do like working with the smaller individual pages best. What do you think of my garden statue page???

Enjoy your day!

Altered Book - Spread 3

2011-07-21T13:55:00.005-04:00

The fun just kept on coming as we continued with our altered book spreads! This was one jam packed ARTsy spread that I just loved. The gates are just awesome and swing back and forth. This spread was designed by Joan W. I think all of us thought this was so hard to do but in hind sight it really was so much fun and not that hard at all...it just required a bit more assembly but when everything is given to you and right before you even the least experienced person can do it! Ain't ART grand! I chose to add a few different items to the inside of my gate doors. I have a love for birds and used that on one gate and also postal things which were in the original game plan. I do know that these gates are from a cricut die...they are adhered to a panel that is covered front and back with old book pages. Fun, huh? Yes, please tell me...what do you think of Spread 3???

Enjoy your day!

Make N Take - Garden Glove Corsage!

2011-07-21T09:08:00.003-04:00

My sister, Jeri, provided this Make N Take with the garden theme and I just loved the corsage - it's a child's garden glove and there were several colors but of course, I chose a blue one. We added a choice of rake, hoe or pitch fork and ribbons and flowers along with our ARTful Gathering 2011 tag! Now is this fun or what????? Stay tuned...I'll be posting Spread 3 from our Altered Book a little later today!

Enjoy your day!

Altered Book - Spread 2

2011-07-20T09:17:00.003-04:00

You should have been with us as we were creating our pages...had a really good time with this one and it was one of my favorites...could be that the ART had an elegant simplicity that I just loved! Of course, you could add more to the pages - our choice! Our designer for this page is Jean Bennett and she first gave us a demonstration of how to use the Angelina fibers we put over the dragonfly wings...beautiful stuff! It has to be heat set and its something you must see to really appreciate. The dragonfly was already stamped for us and cut to the shape of the pocket so we just did an overlay and then added our own Angelina wings over the original ones. Just imagine the lovely iridescence of the dragonfly wings! We added a cut out butterfly tag to our pocket. The flower page was also an overlay to highlighted book pages! I loved this page....how about you???

Enjoy your day!

Altered Book - Spread 1

2011-07-19T07:10:00.003-04:00

I've just returned from the wonderful retreat my sister offers to all members of her ART group (An Affair with ART) and it was a fantastic time! We have so much fun sharing ideas and creating ART! Each and every year we create a themed altered book - this years theme was GARDEN! What fun we had and I'm going to be sharing my altered book with you! My sister was not able to create the entire book herself this year due to health reasons but oh, her group members came and provided us with outstanding instruction and items to work with. This is the first spread in our book, which was designed by Julie). It's our choice to follow Julie's design or change it up in anyway we desired. Mine is basically like the one Julie created with some minor placement changes...loved this beautiful spread! Be sure to click on the picture so you can see it larger and in more detail! As I said, all materials are provided...I added the sweet pink and jeweled butterfly in the bottom left corner that was made just for me by a close friend, Angie! Yep, I want to know what you think of my spread 1???

Enjoy your day!

Link Up for Pink!

2011-07-12T16:04:00.006-04:00

I'm doing last minute things before heading out toTX for my sister's ART retreat and I thought I'd update my blog with more of my bead ART. This bracelet and earrings have been sent to my sweet friend, Celeste....Celeste is currently taking sponsors for Link up for Pink and asking that we spread the word...she and a couple more ladies will be having an October 1 - 14 blog hop and you can be a winner. Its a great cause to support Breast Cancer Awareness. My sister and my MIL have had breast cancer and I'm happy to show my support...please think about it too. You can visit Celeste's blog here and show your support too! I'll see you again in just a few days!

Enjoy your day!

Yellow is the Color!

2011-07-11T14:27:00.003-04:00

Do you remember the song by Donovan, "Yellow is the color of my true love's hair in the morning when we rise"??? I've been humming and singing this song all morning as I created and scanned my ATC for a swap over in ARTHaven! This is a sweet and sassy little young one to me! I just loved the image and was able to offset her lovliness with a wonderful ATC background that someone created and sent to me - it just makes her sweetness shine! Yes, I want to know - What do you think of my yellow ATC???

I leave Wednesday for an ART retreat out in Texas - yep, I'll be with my sister for 5 days! I'm so looking forward to it! I'm honestly having fun creating ART since our family mountain vacation. I have one more swap to complete before I leave and it is half done so I should be on target - I'll try hard to get it posted before leaving again!

Enjoy your day!

Keeping with the Red, White & Blue!

2011-07-09T13:55:00.003-04:00

The month of July is certainly a fun month and I love the colors red, white & blue together in any type of ART! I'll be using this card over in ARTHaven for the July card swap! I'm not even sure where I got this lovely young lady but you know I collect all I can get and she seemed just perfect for this month! If you know you gave me this image, please holler and I'll surely give you credit for it....love her! I also changed this card up a bit but I knew it would not scan well so you are seeing the image before I "doctored" it a bit! My dear friend, Angie, crocheted some flowers for me and I added a beautiful red one over the flower she is holding and added a button to the center......too raised when I tried to scan it and it turned out too distorted...but, you can surely imagine how beautiful the crocheted flower looks! Yep, I want to know...what do you think of my holiday young lady??? What ART have you created today?

Enjoy your day!

Celebrating JULY!

2011-07-08T17:37:00.003-04:00

I'm home from vacation and I'm all about celebrating the month of July! I made this postcard for my sister...she won the Lottery in her group - she had never ever won and was pretty thrilled and chose postcards in a red, white and blue color...quite patriotic for July and it didn't have to be patriotic at all! You know me.....gave the flowers and overall postcard the red, white and blue look! I'll be heading to Texas mid-week to see my sister and spend a few days with her and about 24 other ladies in her An Affair With ART group...should be a fun time! Towards the end of July we have plans to head to our beach cottage by the SEA at Oak Island - and wonderful news...our youngest grandson, Zachary, may get to visit us there! He is 13 and we don't get to see him that often so I am so hoping it will work out!

Happy July everyone!

Enjoy your day!

By the Beautiful SEA!

2011-07-01T06:16:00.007-04:00

There is no place I'd rather by than by the beautiful SEA! This was the theme of some ART swaps over in ARTHaven this past month and I just wanted to share a card and tag I made in this theme...so very fun to create about the SEA! I'll not make it down to the beautiful SEA until August but it is calling out to me, so I'll look forward to our time there. I really do love the peace the SEA brings to me, the feel of the sand under my feet and the hot sunshine on me! I can just see the pelicans and SEAgulls flying by and the laughter of children and adults playing in the water! I'll have a grand time shell seaking! Okay...getting carried away and I have a mountain vacation coming up! What do you think of my interpretation of By the Beautiful SEA ART???

Enjoy your day!

Beading Again!

2011-06-30T06:35:00.005-04:00

Oh my... once I pull out my beads, I'm lost in a world of creating fun! This is an ART form that I truly love and get carried away with! Mostly I'm using new beads with lovely white pearls to create my sets...yes, some things are my "leftovers" but I'm always happy to use them. I'll be wearing this red, white and blue set myself over the Fourth of July holiday! This is a lovely set to me and I know I'll enjoy using them. Yes, I do want to know...What do you think of this set??? I'll begin a few days of vacation on July 4 but I'll be back!

Some of you have asked if I'm actually using crayons in my Crayola ART...Nope, just papers that represent the Crayola Color. I'm creating a book from my 5x5's!

Enjoy your day!

Granny Smith Apple ART!

2011-06-29T05:54:00.003-04:00

I'm continuing on with my Crayola Crayon ART and the lucious color I've created with this week is Granny Smith Apple! I love that little twang of a good ole Granny Smith Apple...one of my favorites! I loved this image of a Southern lady in her green too... I can just imagine her picking GS apples and baking them into a pie...yum! If it weren't so early in the morning, I'd run down and get me a GS apple right now...this has made me hungry for one! Okay...your thoughts, please??? I'm hoping today will be a great day for you and yours and that you'll grab some Granny Smith Apple colors and create ART today!

Enjoy your day!

2011-06-27T06:36:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since I've beaded but the minute I pulled out my bead boxes I quickly remembered how much I love my beads! I have tons of miss-match beads just looking a home and you all know I love to use what I have in my ART...so...I had a mission ahead of me! I wanted to use these beautiful beads in shades of blue and tan and all I had to purchase were the beautiful smoky antique-looking blue glass beads. Look closely because I don't want you to miss them - they are just beautiful! Of course...I am wanting to know what you think of my bracelet & earring set??? I really hope you have beads to pull out and make ART!

Enjoy your day!

Mango Tango ART!

2011-06-25T08:26:00.003-04:00

I'm adding to my 5x5 Crayola ART book and the latest color hue is Mango Tango! You know I'm not much of an orange person except of course, I do love orange sherbert...however, I found these great flowers in the right hue and they made me smile! At first, I was just thrown by the Mango Tango color but I'm now rather pleased with the 5x5. You know I have to ask...what do you think of my Mango Tango ART???

I must say that I've been having a blast playing with my beads again...I thought I had given those up! I'll try and post a picture of those soon!

American Idol

2011-06-23T09:08:00.002-04:00

I had an opportunity to create a bit of ART using music as the theme so my mind immediately went to Scotty MCreery...winner of American Idol season 10. I created a hangie danglie as was required and put his picture and played up his I Love You This Big release. I do believe the recipient will like this very much!

I'm so pleased to do this because I actually know Scotty McCreery! He is every bit the young Southern gentleman you have seen on TV and he should make it big because his voice is wonderful. I had the opportunity to do long term sub positions at his middle school so had him for much of his time there and it was a blessing to me. I pulled for him big time all through American Idol and to hear him announced the winner just touched my heart. I really love this guy.....this big!

Enjoy your day!