Studio Calico: Far Far Away Kit Cards

These were two of my favorite stamp sets from Studio Calico, and I'm so happy I finally dug them out and put them to use!  The fruit set was from one of their kits: Far Far Away and the cactus set was from  Life.Love.Paper set that is no longer available (shucks! It's so cute!)

The fruit cards were stamped, colored with Copics, fussy cut and adhered with pop dots for dimension... and the houseplant was stamped directly onto the card using a masking technique.

I'll let you in on something: the little heart on the above pineapple wasn't planned!  It was a coloring error that I had to figure out how to correct!  I love happy accidents!  I may not have thought about adding the heart if it wasn't for that mistake, and I think it really brightens up the card!

Embrace your mistakes, and make the best out of them... they help your creativity grow!
Cheers,
Steph

Cool Cat: Scrapbook & Cards Today Publication

I'm so excited to have another layout in the Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine!  Ralphie's in the spotlight for this one, I just couldn't resist submitting this hilarious photo of our 'Cool Cat'!  He really is such a good sport! 

The layout came together quite quickly once I tracked down a few different sized punches at the Moncton Crop & Create!  I think that's what I love the most about crops, everyone is always willing to share their tools and supplies!

Download your copy of this wonderful publication HERE, and check out Ralphie on Pg 71!

PS: For the record, the glasses are from one of my Blythe doll's outfits!

Catnip Crazy: Scrapbook Layout

Oh yes.  Catnip.  This stuff is very popular in our house!  Of all the 6 cats,  Athena is the most affected by the herb, she just goes BONKERS!!  I think it's adorable that my most subdued, well behaved, dainty little girl goes all "Spring Break Crazy" as soon as she gets a whiff of the stuff.

Earlier this year I received a care package from Joanne, one of my favorite online scrapbooking friends!  Joanne's a cat lover (and dog and turtle lover too!), so of course there was a cute gift for the kitties!  Athena claimed the catnip toys almost immediately, Here is proof!

This scrapbook layout was created using one of my last Studio Calico kits: Fairground and one of my favorite cut files from the JustNick cutfile shop!

Thanks for reading!
Steph
xo

Herding Cats: Scrapbook Layout

Ahhh yes, the art of herding cats.  I am all too familiar with this term, and it couldn't be more true with these fuzz butts!

No matter how hard I try to get them all together for a nice photo, they just can't seem to focus on me for even one second while I try and take their picture!

And let's not even THINK about getting all six together, as that will never happen with the dynamics between Summer and the younger ones... she just doesn't like them, and never will (her nickname is Mrs Bitchypants for a reason... typical Tortie LOL)

The layout was created using Studio Calico's Lollipop Kit and some Studio calico alpha rubons I had in my stash.

Thanks for stopping by!
Steph
xo

Better Together: Scrapbook Layout and Process Video

I've been on a bit of a creative hiatus these past few months, and this is my first scrapbook layout of 2016!  I've had this photo printed since the fall, but I just hadn't gotten around to pulling my supplies out for ages. 

Do you ever feel like you just need to reset?  Go back to 0, and declutter your mojo?  That is how I'd been feeling lately, a bit overwhelmed; and it was interfering with my ability to create.  So I just stopped trying for a little while to see what happened. 

I knew my desire to create would come back to me, it always does.  I just didn't want to be caught up in all the expectations that surround us in the virtual world re: Instagram, Pinterest etc.  They say that comparison is the thief of joy, and this rang true for me.  There is a fine line between inspiration and inundation, and I found myself spending more time online than actually being creative myself!

This weekend, for the first time in months, I wanted to sit at my desk and make something.  And two watercolor paintings, a mixed media painting and a scrapbook layout later, I feel like I just woke up from a long winter's nap.  I've stretched a bit, and now I'm ready to get back into the groove.

Don't be scared to give yourself the space your mojo needs, it happens to us all.

Here is the process video for my scrapbook layout using Studio Calico's Goldie Collection
Thanks so much for visiting!
Steph

Sweet Ralphie - Scrapbook Layout Process video

OK.  So I gave it a try.  I've uploaded my first scrapbook process video.  Disclosure: I am not doing anything mind blowing or new.  It's a layered mixed media layout using Studio Calico inks. 

After I posted a few layouts using this ink technique a couple of months ago, I had a few folks ask for details on the punchinella dots.  The layout is random, messy and full of hesitation... but that's how I roll!  I'm such a SLOW scrapbooker!  I tend to spend more time pushing paper around my table then gluing anything down... and in the end, they always look same. 

It is what it is, and I'm just going with it <grin>

Had lots of fun with this... and the only thing that was left out of the video what the bit of pen that I used to outline the page title and underline the inked journaling.

Have a look, let me know what you think!
Cheers,
Steph
xo

Supplies used

Paper: American Crafts and Studio Calico/Seven Paper

Foam title: Pink Paislee

Ink: Studio Calico

Word stickers, vellum hearts, enamel dots and vellum letters: Studio Calico/Seven Paper

Yellow Washi Strip: AC Amy Tangerine

Black and White Washi: A Beautiful Mess

Punchinella

Dear Lizzy Date Stamp

Michaels Dollar bin Alpha stamps

Banana Phone - Scrapbook Layout

This catnip banana toy was the best money I've spent in a long time!  Luna just loves carrying the thing around the house, from one room to another and even up and down the stairs!  It's a bit awkward for her, but oh so cute! 

She is the most playful cat!  She's just turned a year old, and I don't see her slowing down at all.  She plays fetch at least once a day, always chirping at me whilst dropping her furry mice at my feet.  She is so adorable and quite the character!

The scrapbook layout is just a bunch of scraps from one of my Studio Calico kits (or perhaps a combo of a few?) and a few items from my stash.  I'm still on a layering/sewing/pops of yellow kick... and I don't see that changing for awhile yet!

I usually like my stitching a bit messy and random, but this time I just did some simple straight lines, to add texture to the layout and to ensure my chipboard Thickers stay on the layout 10 years from now!

Thanks for stopping by!
Steph
xo

You Are... Adorable: Scrapbook Layout

This sweet girl cracks me up!  Luna is still consumed with the joy of being a kitten, and this photo really shows her funny side!  She gets so wound up when it's play time, that "look" is what happens... she's so intense!

Her first Birthday was just over a month ago, and I don't see any signs of her energy slowing down!  I've heard that Ragdolls don't reach full maturity until they are 4 years old, so we may still have quite a few shenanigans left!

The layout was created with a Studio Calico kit, and again with the layered rectangles and borders!  I swear, I don't do it intentionally... it's just what I like these days!  I think it may be time to dig out my Silhouette machine or at least my circle template and punches!  That would certainly help change things up for me!

Cheers,
Steph
xo

So Cute: Scrapbook Layout

Ralphie is such a dream to photograph!  His personality is very calm and relaxed, so even if he isn't snoozing he's fairly easy to capture.  However he doesn't always look at the camera, so I tend to have a wand toy handy to get his attention.  When he's being particularly cute (in good lighting of course), I take about 10-20 photos and this *usually* guarantees me one in focus shot. 

The layout is my usual "layered rectangle" style with borders.  I know, I know, I'm getting tired of it too... but its what suits my mood these days.  The supplies were from an older Studio Calico kit (Odyssey) I think) and I wish I had 100 of those kitty wood veneers!

Thanks for stopping by!

Steph

xo

Studio Calico Color Theory Ink: Process Video

The Studio Calico Color Theory Ink refills have been on my wish list for quite some time, and I finally managed to snag the collection during a sale last month! I had seen how others have used it on their scrapbook layouts instead of traditional watercolor washes, and wondered how they would fare if I used them for one of my cat watercolor sketches.

Whenever I want to test anything new, I always go to my default project: Cat sketching!  I just can't help myself, and I've decided not to fight it.... it's what appeals to me, so why not!?

Similar to watercolors, the color vibrancy for the inks vary depending on how much water you add to the ink drops.  Also, the working time is also very limited with these inks,  you can't linger or over think anything.  

I struggled a bit at first with the limited working time (in the video, you can see what happens when I'm adding color to the grey kitty's forehead), however it didn't take me long to gauge how fast I had to work.  Although, I do need to be a bit more careful when I'm working that fast as things tend to splatter around if I don't pay attention.  That's a Stephanie problem though, no fault of the ink ;-)

Thanks for stopping by!

Steph

xo

LCOM Crop - One Hour Challenge: Scrapbook Layouts

I was in Moncton recently to attend the LCOM Fall crop with the lovely Kristine!  We had so much fun catching up and playing with paper.  We haven't spent any time together since the Spring, so it was a much needed reconnect! 

The crop had two "One Hour Layout" challenges, and I had great fun with the sketches provided!  Having limited time, and limited supplies (since I'm not in my scraproom), really takes the pressure off.  It's a bit surprising, because you would think otherwise.  However, it really forces me to stop over thinking every darn enamel dot placement and to "Get 'er Done!"

The first layout above was a cool chevron sketch, and I used Crate Paper's Wonder collection.  I believe it's meant to be a baby collection, but with all those cute little kitty faces on the paper and embellishments I couldn't resist!

The second layout was a layered layout using Studio Calico's Baxter collection, and I'm still not sure about that pop of yellow... but I'm leaving it in there anyway.  That's what this is all about, to stretch your creativity and get you out of your comfort zone.  I probably would never use this color combo again, but that's ok! 


Thanks for stopping by!
Steph
xo

Meow: Scrapbook Layout

These four furry critters crack me up!  I often feel like I'm part of a never-ending Conga line, and I love it!  Sure they are underfoot, and I have to watch out that that I don't trip over them, but having  their company in the house is so lovely.

All four cats are VERY different from each other, and they all show affection and cuddle in different ways.  However, they are all so social they can't help but follow me around the house even if it's just to the washroom and back!

I scrapbooked this favorite photo with a lovely collection by Studio Calico's Seven Paper.  I think it is hands down, my favorite release of 2015.  I love that it's all about cats/dogs and in a pastel palette!  Often pet lines are in browns and oranges and I just find those colors difficult to work with as I'm still on my "bright" kick.

And the kitty wood veneers?!?  I may have ordered about 10 packs of those, I never want to run out!

Thanks for stopping by!
Steph
xo

Scrapbook Layout: Family Fun with a Selfie Stick!

Like most families, when we gather together we are a flurry of non-stop stories, conversations and catching up.  Too many times I find myself on the road home, face palming because I forgot to strong arm them into a group photo!

So at the end of our last gathering for my Dad's birthday, I made sure we grabbed a quick informal photo with my selfie stick!  These often intrusive devices come in handy for family photos... no one is left out and no need to set up a tripod!  (It helps that my brother is super tall LOL)

Is it perfect?  Of course not!  But I love it!  We are all staring into the sun, blinding ourselves, Rohan even has his eyes shut tight... which I find so cute!  It adds character to the photo, and I love that we captured our fun weekend.

Does your family enjoy taking group photos?  Or do you have to bribe and coerce them like I do?

Steph

xo

Princess Luna de Noche

Some call it a weak moment on my husbands part, I call it the best Christmas present ever!

Princess Luna de Noche. She is lovely, adorable and we are completely smitten with her. She loves with her whole heart and has brought us so much joy.

Here is my first scrap page of her, I'm certain there will be many more to follow :-)

Steph
xo
 

Cool Kid

This boy and his cat crack me up... they are like two peas in a pod! Lucky has the perfect personality for a rambunctious fella like Rohan!  

Rohan has very good cat manners; he is very gentle with Lucky and doesn't tease or annoy him intentionally.  All he wants is a snuggle, and even then he doesn't push too much.  However, he is still only 6 after all, and little boys can play LOUD!  When Lucky has had enough, he just goes upstairs to his quiet place to recharge.

This paper and embellies were all part of a past Studio Calico kit... and I have to admit, I love the concept, but I really struggled with this beautiful graphic design paper. 

Sometimes I think I'm just in a scrapbook rut, in that when something is outside of my wheelhouse I can't figure out which direction to take.  Sure, I got the layout done... but I feel like I haven't "wowed" myself in a long time.  You know that feeling when you are finished a layout and you can't wait to show someone else because you are just so thrilled with it?!  Yeah, I haven't really had that lately. 

I'm sure it will pass... I probably just need to find more time in my Scrapbook space and work out those creative blocks.



Thanks for stopping by!
Steph

Cat In the Hat

I've been collecting Blythe dolls this past year, and one of the trendy items to outfit your doll with are these beautiful critter hats by Sweet Days.  When Ingrid posted this pink cat hat I just had to have it!

It was just by chance that one day when I was sorting through my Blythe hats, and poor Ralphie was sleeping on my desk, that I noticed the hat would probably fit him.  Well, it's safe to say that Blythe doll heads are about the same size as a Persian Cat's head!  haha! 

Since that day, whenever I receive a new Blythe hat, Ralphie has a little photoshoot with it first.  I have to schedule them just after a nap while he's still groggy, but I don't think he minds much anyway ;-) 

I dug out one of my favorite kits for this layout: Studio Calico Sugar Rush  (They still have some of the SC patterned paper left)

Thanks for stopping by!
Have a great week!
Steph

Creative Scrappers Sketch 265

Grids are Back baby!!!

I just love this latest Creative Scrappers sketch!  It was the perfect way for me to document our first week with Athena, and I added a couple of extra photos in there just to capture it all.

I dug out one of my older Studio Calico kits and just loved playing with the sketch design and moving my embellishments around the layout.

 

Be sure to stop by the Creative Scrappers blog to see the full DT reveal and submit your take on Sketch 265 for your chance to win a prize from our monthly Sponsor Chic Tags!

Cheers,
Steph
xo

Welcome Home Athena.....Um, or Lola or Ruby

If you have visited my blog before (Thanks you!!) then you have probably caught on that I am a cat lover.  Self titled Crazy Cat Lady, and I wouldn't live my life any other way.

The opportunity to adopt this beautiful girl presented itself almost a month ago and we couldn't resist.  She was described as a sassy, affectionate and cuddly 8 year old, retired Silver Persian Queen.  A lap cat. 

It was the last sentence that prompted Dave to immediately suggest we offer her a home.  You see, I had two lap cats who passed away late 2012 (Gabe 12) and early 2013 (Bronte 16).... and my lap has been empty every since. 

I drove the 8hrs to New Brunswick and back to pick her up, and immediately fell in love.  I think she *may* have felt the same way about me, because when I transferred her from the travel carrier to my carrier she just got up and walked in. 

We've been getting to know one another this past month, and I know this sounds corny, but she "fits".  She gets along so well with our other 4 cats, its almost as though she's always been with us!  (those of you with a multi cat household, know that this isn't always the case!)

She is lovely, sweet and a bit sassy... she meows like Chewbaca when she wants me to scratch her head.  It is adorable. 

She's 8years old, and doesn't know her name.  So we were entertaining the idea of renaming her since Athena doesn't really suit her.... we've tried Ruby, Rue, and Lola is the current favorite.... but it may just evolve as we continue to acquaint ourselves.... I caught myself calling her "Chewy" the other days, so who knows ;-)

Creative Catch Up!

A couple of weekends ago I was in a total Stashbusting mood and was able to get a few layouts finished!  My stash is slowly working its way down, without bringing in too many new items (Although I couldn't resist Amy Tangerine and Dear Lizzy's new AC lines!)

My goal is to have a much more manageable stash, where I don't hoard anything for longer than a couple of months.  I have a tendency to buy items that I absolutely adore, and will hang on to it for years because I don't want to "run out" or "use it all up".... and really, what's the point in that?!

So my personal goal is not to be wasteful and re home the items I know I will never use...It's an ongoing process, and the change in my shopping habit is the toughest part!  I love so many new items, but I need to remind myself I don't need every single release! Ha!

So enough chatter.... here are the Stashbusting layouts I completed... all with product that is over a year old or more!

Thanks for stopping by and catching up with me!
Cheers,
Steph

Scrapaganza 2014!

My lovely friend Mercy Tiara invited me to her house for her annual "Scrapaganza" all day scrapbooking event!  Basically, she has a few scrappy friends over for an all day session (9am-until we drop) and I was thrilled to accept!

It was lovely meeting new scrappy friends, and spending time with others who enjoy this hobby as much as I do.  I haven't been to a crop in some time, so I was really looking forward to it.

The company was lovely, the food was delicious, and I think we all had a great time :)

Here is a photo that MT's hubby took of us in her amazing scrappy space.... can you imagine, she has room for 5 people to scrap comfortably!  I'm just a little envious LOL

Here are some of the layouts I completed during the day, I almost killed an entire SC Kit + Add on!

Thanks for stopping by!
Hope you are having a great week :)
Steph