Stampin' Happiness

Crazy for Cupcakes Class

2009-02-22T19:59:00.005-06:00

After receiving lots of requests for a birthday card class, I have planned a fun class just for you!

Make your next birthday celebration an event to remember when you gift your friend or loved one with this mouth-watering cupcake - themed card set! You will make 4 sweet birthday cards and an adorable cupcake box to hold the cards. You may want to keep this delicious card set all to yourself!

Date: Saturday, March 14

Time: 9:00 AM to Noon

Cost: $25.00

Location: My House

Please email me to sign up for this class: stampopotamus@hotmail.com

Supplies (All Stampin' Up!) -

Stamps: Crazy for Cupcakes

Inks: Basic Brown, Close to Cocoa, Pink Pirouette, So Saffron, Chocolate Chip, Regal Rose Classic inks, Optional: Close to Cocoa, Regal Rose WWC.

Paper: Sweet Always DP, Whisper White, Close to Cocoa, Chocolate Chip, Regal Rose, Pink Pirouette, Medium Whisper White envelopes

Accessories: Sticky strip, Snail adhesive, Stampin’ Dimensionals, 2-way glue pen,Crystal Effects, 1" Double - Stitched Rose Grosgrain ribbon, 5/8" Regal Rose ribbon, Dazzling Diamonds glitter,silver brads, paper snips, 1/16” handheld circle punch, 1 ¼” circle punch, ticket corner punch, Key Tag punch, crimper, blender pen

Valentine's Day Treats

2009-02-16T09:12:00.006-06:00

My children and I love to make homemade marshmallows. They are fun, easy and very sticky to make, but there is nothing like a homemade marshmallow. Until you have put one of those fluffy pillows of sweetness into your hot chocolate, you have not lived! Get out of the way Jet Puff!

Arianne's 4th grade teacher loves the marshmallows we make, so once a year, we make a batch to share. This year, I ran out of time at Christmas and we decided to make them for Valentine's Day instead. We sprinkled them with red candy sugar and cut them out with heart shaped cookie cutters. Just gorgeous. I made a little treat basket (pattern courtesy of Janine Tinklenberg) and we took them to school. They were a big hit.

This is a little sneak peak for my Technique Club gals because we are going to recreate this little treat basket in class this month, but I have changed up the colors to a springtime palette of Tangerine Tango and Kiwi Kiss.

Happy Stampin'!

Happy Lincoln's Birthday!

2009-02-12T10:03:00.005-06:00

I am off from work today because of Abraham Lincoln's Birthday. Last night, my children and I went to a free concert downtown. It was called "Let Freedom Ring" and was in honor of Lincoln's birthday. There were a lot of wonderful local school and church choirs, the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and the youth symphony. The highlight for me was when the symphony played Aaron Copeland's "Lincoln Portrait" and Bill Kurtis narrated. I grew up watching Bill anchor the evening news in Chicago and now he does a lot of work with PBS. He has such a rich voice. He read famous Lincoln quotes and provided glimpses about his life. So cool!

All supplies by Stampin' Up!

Stamps: Bloomin' Beautiful (111490), En Francais (109521), Print Pattern (retired)
Paper: Watercolor Paper, Really Rust, Chocolate Chip, Old Olive
Ink: Really Rust, Chocolate Chip, Always Artichoke, Old Olive, So Saffron, Versamark
Other: Chocolate Chip 5/8" grosgrain ribbon, dimensionals, aquapainter

Gettysburg Address

2009-02-09T20:16:00.004-06:00

Here in the Land of Lincoln, we are gearing up to celebrate the 200th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. This milestone event is being celebrated by our area schools with kids in all grades learning the Gettysburg Address. I remember as a child reading the words and not really paying much attention to what the words meant. Now, as an adult and a citizen of this great country, these words take on a whole new meaning as I hear them through the voices of my children.

My daughter's 4th grade class had the honor of being selected to read the Gettysburg Address at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. Their reading was filmed and can be viewed on the museum's web site.

Take a moment to listen to their earnst young voices as they read these famous words.

Ummmm...why all the traffic?

2009-02-07T15:47:00.004-06:00

Imagine my surprise today when I saw the jump in traffic on my little blog. I noticed that folks were visiting from a web site called Card of the Week. Susanna's beautiful blog keeps the pulse of stamping and scrapbooking projects all over the web....and she noticed me!

I can't believe it. My blog is definitely not a high traffic site. I really just keep it for my own pleasure. I even stopped posting for a long time because my family has a very busy life and I just couldn't keep up. With 2 active kids who participate in a variety of sports and other activities, a full-time job and a Stampin' Up! demonstratorship, I just couldn't keep the posts following regularly. And now someone noticed me...thanks Susanna. I will keep plugging along and enjoy myself.

Stampin' Technique Club

2009-02-06T20:04:00.002-06:00

In January, I wanted to have a little valentine-like fun with the techniques for my Stampin' Technique Class. The little treat bag is made using the Big Shot Top Note Die. I love this die. It is so versatile and can be used in so many fun ways.

The accordion flower technique is showcased in the Sale-A-Bration catalog. This technique is really wow, but it can be tedious to score the long strip of 1" x 12" designer patterned paper. We learned that it is easiest to use sticky strip to hold the flower together.

The lingerie card is my very favorite. I have seen "bra and panty" cards designed by other stampers and I had to jump on the bandwagon. As you can see, the card is made using various SU punches. I love to show how our punches are useful for much more than punching out a stamped image. The label, for example, is made using the square scalloped punch. Isn't that cool?

Although my 2008 Winter Technique Class is over, I am starting the 2009 Stampin' Technique Class in February. We have a fantastic time together. Class meets one Sunday or Tuesday (you pick) each month and there is just a $15 purchase requirement. The best part (besides great projects and chocolate) is that you get to be the hostess too. Each member gets a hostess month and all of the hostess benefits that month. I have a couple of slots left, so if you are interested in joining, please check out my web site here and send me a message.

Sale-A-Brate

2009-02-05T22:31:00.004-06:00

It's Sale-a-Bration time and this is the best time of the year to sign up as a Stampin' Up! demonstrator! Why? When you sign-up during Sale-a-bration, you will receive an additional stamp set of your choice (up to $47.95 value) from any of the current catalogs! That's in addition to the amost $350 worth of stamp sets, stampin' supplies and business items that you get in your starter kit! And, during SAB, you also receive 15% off the price of the starter kit.

This is such a great deal! Even if you just want to purchase items for yourself and have no intention of selling to customers and building a business, this kit is a great value. What's more, you will receive a whopping 30% off on your very first order (minimium of $150) and after that, at least 20% off on every single order you place! You'll have access to the Stampin' Up! demonstrator website and all the inspiration and information that comes with it. You'll receive a monthly magazine, Stampin' Success, packed full of inspiring ideas and product sneak-peaks! And you'll be part of an energetic and creative team that loves what they do and shares what they love! Join my team now by clicking HERE.

Happy 20th Birthday Stampin' Up!

2008-10-05T21:02:00.005-05:00

Stampin' Up! turned 20! How exciting it is to celebrate 20 years of sharing stamping with others. In honor of this occasion Stampin' Up! is offering a fabulous Birthday promotion.

From now until the end of October you can purchase these select Birthday sets at 20% off with a $20 qualifying purchase. You can see the flyer up close here.

Remember our new Online Customer Ordering system makes it easier then ever to order your Stampin' Up! product and have it delivered right to your door.

Item # Page # Description Retail Price 20% Off Price
109439 62 Big Bold Birthday $27.95 $22.36
112895 62 Cumpleaños genial y divertido (Spanish Big Bold Birthday)* $27.95 $22.36
111532 63 Party Hearty* $26.95 $21.56
110994 64 Bitty Birthday $12.95 $10.36
111618 64 Crazy for Cupcakes* $23.95 $19.16
111546 65 Simple Birthday Thanks* $17.95 $14.36
111702 65 Time to Party* $16.95 $13.56
108559 68 Crab & Company $27.95 $22.36

2008-10-05T19:45:00.004-05:00

Are you looking for the perfect holiday gift for that "hard-to-shop-for person" in your life? Everyone loves to give cards during the holiday season, so why not gift them with this gorgeous card portfolio with 5 coordinating cards!

Date: Saturday, November 8
Time: 9 AM - 1 PM (come anytime and plan to spend about 2 hours)
Cost: $25
Location: My House

Please email me to sign up for this class: stampopotamus@hotmail.com. Can't come to class? Ask me about a class-to-go kit.

Open House Fun and a special gift!

2008-09-24T22:16:00.002-05:00

If you love stampin' you will want to join me on Saturday, September 27 for a Stampin' Up! Open House. Several of my demonstrator friends and I will be hosting an event at the Hampton Inn and Suites behind Meijer on Veteran's Parkway.

The open house is from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

We will have:

new stamps and accessories to drool over
a make/take project using BRAND NEW stamp sets
door prizes every half hour
a color chart that you can make using the new "In Colors"
demonstrations of the new Big Shot and special techniques

Come by anytime and bring a friend for a little Saturday stampin'!

If you RSVP for this event by leaving a comment on my blog, you will get a special stamp as a gift from me when you arrive at the event!

So much fun!

2008-09-21T17:50:00.002-05:00

I love this picture of Alexander and Arianne lying on the ground. The colors of the clothes they are wearing clashed with the colors I wanted to use for the scrapbook page, so I printed the picture in black and white.

The chipboard letters are from the Stampin' Up! On Board collection and are covered in designer paper. I love the felt fusion flowers. I am finally to the point were I don't hoard them anymore, I actually use them on a page!

If you would like to scrapbook with me, please give me a call and we can set up a scrapbook workshop.

Stampin' Up! On-line Ordering Now Available!

2008-09-20T03:10:00.005-05:00

Wow! I really didn't think this day would ever arrive - but it has!!!

If you go directly to my Stampin' Up! website and you can place an order for your favorite SU! items anytime - day or night!! Just look for the "Shop Now" button in the upper right-hand-corner. Now isn't that exciting!!

Be the first person to place an order of $50 or more with me online and I will send you a Gift Certificate for $10 OR a Free Catalog (if you don't already have one!!).

And just to make it a little more fun - as if ordering some new SU! products isn't fun enough! - if you order from me online during Sept. I will send you a hand-stamped card made with some of our new SU! products!! May be it will even be a card using the new Big Shot. Then you will want to come to my house and play with this fun, new toy.

Also check out my class schedule at my SU! website and take a look at the new project samples in the Gallery there.

So how do you shop on-line? Simple.

1. Visit my demonstrator website at http://connymoody.stampinup.net/.
2. Click on SHOP NOW in the top right corner.
3. Click on customer login to set up your own personal shopping account (be sure to save your password in a safe place).
4. Have fun shopping!

Thanks for stopping by today - see you over on my SU! website!!

New Round of Technique Classes Starts Soon

2008-07-29T22:50:00.003-05:00

I am about to begin a new round of Monthly Stampin’ Technique Classes.

WHAT IS IT?
A group of people interested in learning art stamping and scrapbooking techniques. The monthly Technique Clubs usually meet during the third week each month. Each club member receives a technique binder with instructions for the technique being presented that month. During the club meeting everyone will make a full-sized card or other item using the technique discussed. Two – three projects are completed monthly. Club members also receive special promotions, discounts and an invitation to an exclusive hostess-only event every summer.

WHY SHOULD I JOIN?
1. It’s a great way to build up your stamping supplies gradually. There is no class fee, just a minimum $25.00 monthly Stampin’ Up! product purchase. Soon you will have a great collection of stamping products!
2. Everyone gets their turn to be the “hostess.” This means you collect HOSTESS BENEFITS! You’ll get at least one exclusive hostess stamp set plus $15 in free catalog merchandise during your hostess month. (You could get a lot more!)
3. You will be learning tons of techniques and tricks, plus collecting patterns and ideas for great stamping projects. If you can’t make it to the monthly club workshop, just call in your order to me by the date of our club workshop and I will make your projects for you…it’s no problem!
4. Each time you sign up for sign up for a six month club, you receive a copy of newest Stampin’ Up! Idea Book & Catalogue FREE (a $9.95 value!), plus you get technique instructions and patterns each month.
5. Special offers and classes only available to technique club members.
6. Chocolate….I provide the snacks at our monthly club meetings and there is usually chocolate!

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Contact -- Conny Moody, Independent Stampin’ Up Demonstrator
217-725-9009
stampopotamus@hotmail.com
http://connymoody.stampinup.net

Fall - Winter 2008 Stampin’ Technique Club Dates

I offer two classes – Sunday Technique Club and Tuesday Technique Club -- each month. The classes are held in my home and usually meet on during the third week of the month. A 6-month commitment is required so hostess benefits can be rotated. You are always welcome to come to either class. If you are unable to come, I will make your projects for you, but you must provide me with an order in advance of the class you are missing.

Sunday Technique Club – August 19, September 14, October 19, November 16, December 7
Time: 2 – 5 PM

Tuesday Technique Club – August 19, September 16, October 21, November 19, December 9
Time: 6 – 9 PM
Bonus for current members....if you refer a friend who has never participated in my technique class and they sign on for a 6 month club, you will receive a free In Color ink pad and a package of matching 8 1/2" x 11" cardstock as a free gift from me!

I made a Wordle!

2008-07-29T22:41:00.002-05:00

This is my wordle! A Wordle is a toy for generating “word clouds” from text that you provide. I found this as I was cruising other blogs and it is really addictive. You can enter your blog URL and make your own. It is really interesting to see what the Wordle ends up being. Try it your self!

Good Bye....In Colors!

2008-07-16T14:06:00.003-05:00

Say Goodbye to the 07-08 In Colors... Once the Stampin' Up! Retired Accessory List comes out on July 21st, items on that list will ONLY be available WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. However, as you already know, ANYTHING containing these In-Colors is going to retire - so to ensure that you receive the In Color Items that you want, get them ordered today!

To help you stock up on retiring In-Color Items, I'm offering the following discounts. You can take advantage of this pricing through July 28th, but remember, if you wait until after the 21st they might not be available.

Everything in the "In-Color" Block on page 163 of the Catalog will Retire.

1. Purchase ALL Six In-Color Classic Ink Pads for just $25! - a $6.50 Savings!

2. Purchase ALL Six In-Color Classic Ink Refills for just $13 - a $3.50 Savings!

3. Purchase ALL Six In-Color 8 ½ x 11 Cardstock Packs for just $26! - a $7.00 Savings!

4. Purchase ALL Six In-Color Double Stitched Ribbons for just $43! - a $10.70 Savings!

Contact me at stampopostamus@hotmail.com to place your order.

Masculine Cards

2008-07-08T20:20:00.003-05:00

Some times making a masculine card can be difficult. You want to make sure that the colors and the style bespeak male. Nothing too flowery or heaven forbid too pink! Here is the card I made for Father's Day this year for my own dad and my father-in-law. I saw a similar card on-line, and ran with the idea. The paisley background on the bandanna is stamped in Stampin' Up! white craft ink and embossed with clear embossing powder. The "rivets" are from the Sterling Silver Hodgepodge Hardware kit. The "tag" is also stamped with Chocolate Chip ink, covered with Versamark and then embossed with clear embossing powder. Then I roughed it up a little by rolling it between my fingers.

Now there was some controversy about what my design was supposed to be. My husband and son thought that the card was supposed to be a western shirt with the cowboy's bandanna tied around his neck. Everyone else seemed to get the idea that the card mimicked a pair of jeans with a bandanna stuffed in the back pocket.

What do you think it is supposed to be? Leave me a comment and tell me what you think. I am getting close to 1,000 hits and once I reach that number, I will offer up some blog candy!

Independence Day

2008-07-05T15:20:00.002-05:00

Hope you all had a very happy 4th of July yesterday. We spent a glorious day at the lake with friends. Good food, waters sports, mellow weather and good company. In the evening, we watch an awesome fireworks display while munching on chocolatey desserts and sipping wine. I can't remember the last 4th of July when the weather was so gorgeous.

Hope you all enjoyed the wonderful and weather. Blessings on all those who sacrificed so that we can enjoy such wonderful freedoms.

Enjoy your weekend............Conny

Simple is Good

2008-07-02T19:50:00.003-05:00

This is a simple card. It uses paper and stamps and inks. There are no rhinestone brads, no glitter sprinkles and even more surprising....no ribbon! I have a new demonstrator who joined my team (Hi Chrissy!) and she is trying to get ready for her first open house. I designed this card to give her an idea for a make-n-take project that she could prepare for her customers using just the contents of her Stampin' Up! starter kit. As a ripe old demo (I have been doing this for 4 years now), it is sometimes good to remember what it was like back when I didn't have almost every Stampin' Up! product ever sold...and it was a challenge to make this card, simply, but cute. We tend to forget that as art stampers, we don't have to have every accessory imaginable. Sometimes, a few layers, some cute stamps and some fun colors are enough. Simple is good!

So dear readers, I challenge you to make a simple card today...no embellishments, just ink, stamps and paper. E-mail a picture of your card to me and I will randomly choose one to display on my blog and I will send you some Blog Candy...an assortment of buttons, ribbons, and other accessories to use on your more elaborate cards. But for this challenge....simple is good!

Decor Elements - Decorating Made Easy

2008-07-01T22:11:00.003-05:00

A few days ago, I mentioned the new Decor Elements by Stampin' Up! These are self-adhesive vinyl art for walls, mirrors, windows, or other hard, smooth surfaces. Well, I got mine on Friday and after a busy weekend, I decided to put it up on Sunday evening.

In the picture, you will see the large CREATE image on my dining room/stamping room wall. My walls are painted a color called Linen, that is basically a Close to Cocoa color with gray undertones. The chocolate chip color of the Decor Elements provides a nice accent on this wall. It was easy to apply the element to my wall using the applicator from Stampin' Up! I also learned that it is important to follow directions carefully. There is a reason for each step and impatient me, had to be patient with the process. All in all, it took me about 45 minutes to apply the element. Not bad for a beginner!

The element is a nice high quality and appears to be stenciled on the wall by an expert. The finish is smooth and not obtrusive. I immediately ordered the word "Family" with my next order.

Now until July 11 I am offering 10 percent off your first order of Decor Elements. You can look at the current product offering by clicking on the word Decor Elements. Eventually, Stampin' Up! will offer about 100 different styles. Give me a call or send me an e-mail if you want to order some to decorate your space.

New Stampin' Up! Stuff

2008-07-01T07:55:00.002-05:00

It is only 7:45 AM and I have already been on-line to pre-order new Stampin' Up! merchandise. The new catalog debuts on August 10 and demonstrators get to pre-order stamps sets and the new "in colors". Many of my fellow demonstrators stayed up until midnight to place their orders right away, so shipping mine may be several days (especially with the holiday weekend)! I can't wait to get my hands on "Kiwi Kiss"!

Stampin' Up! also announced that all of the new stamp sets will be die cut! That's right...no more precious time wasted cutting out images. Now we will be able to peel, stick and ink!

Stampin' Up! announced - "When it comes to quality stamp sets, Stampin' Up! has been an industry leader for several years. Our original, exclusive stamps have earned the prestigious Creating Keepsakes Readers' Choice Award for best rubber stamps eight years in a row, and every year we work to make them even better!
We're excited to announce that all new stamp sets in the Fall-Winter 2008 Idea Book & Catalog (including new hostess sets) will be die cut for your convenience! We know you enjoy the flexibility of custom mounting your stamps, and with these die-cut sets, all you'll need to do is pop, peel, and place before you begin stamping.
Only our new stamps will be die cut; sets carried over from the last catalog and those on the dormant list will still require trimming. "

Whohoo! I can't wait to get my order.

Cherry Cake

2008-06-23T23:48:00.004-05:00

My dear mom makes the finest cherry cake (Kirsch kuchen) in the world. This is a German specialty that she learned to make in her mom's kitchen in Bavaria. The streusel topping is pure rich butter, sugar and cinnamon. Fresh out of the oven, this cake is like a slice of heaven.

Thanks Mom for making the best treats for your little girl!

Decor Elements - New Stampin' Up! Products

2008-06-18T21:10:00.003-05:00

Oh my...what excitement! Beginning July 1, Stampin' Up! is offering a new product!

What is this new product? Décor Elements is a line of wall art made from vinyl used to decorate your home. They are self-adhesive vinyl wall decorations that can be used on walls, windows, plates, vases, mirrors, picture frames - anything the vinyl will cling to!

This exciting new product will be available to customers on July 1st. I will have brochures available to my customers in about a week. Please email me if you would like one.
I have seen the brochure (available to demonstrators as an early sneak peek) and the images are FABULOUS! I just ordered a yummy chocolate chip element that is the definition of the word "Create." I should have it sometime next week. Let me know if you want to stop by and check it out...I plan to put it in the dining room/stamping room!

2008-06-18T07:29:00.004-05:00

The Retired SU! Stamp Set List is Here!

A whole page of stamp sets from the Stampin' Up! Spring-Summer Collection 2008 are retiring. Don’t wait too long to get your favorite ones —they’re only available through August 10, 2008, and then they will never be available for purchase again!

Click here to take a look at the retire stamps list http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/connymoody/promotions Check back here for a fantastic special I will be offering on retired stamp sets in July!

New Class for July

2008-06-18T07:23:00.003-05:00

Carousel Notes Scrapbook Purse Class

This cute little scrapbook purse features those great Stampin’ Up! Carousel Notes along with the Afternoon Tea Designer Series 12 x 12 paper. This is a very unique project made to look like a purse on the outside, but the inside features spots for photos and journaling and two Carousel notes pull out of the inside envelopes with spots for more photos or messages. This makes a beautiful gift -- or something special just for you.

Class Date: Tuesday, July 22, 6 PM
Class Fee: $30.00

Note: Class fee includes a 1/2 package of 12” x 12” "Afternoon Tea" Double-sided Designer PaperRSVP and Pre-payment due by Monday, July 7 to ensure that your package of paper arrives in time! Note: If you place a Stampin’ Up! order of $25 or more on the night of class, get a 10% discount off the price of class.

R.S.V.P………….Conny Moody 217-725-9009 or email stampopotamus@hotmail.com

Blog special - Bring a friend who has never attended one of my classes and you both receive a Stampin' Write Journaling Marker ($3.95 value) as a free gift!

Friends

2008-06-11T20:35:00.002-05:00

I love this classy floral stamp set, True Friend. I have recently been on a chocolate chip color trip. I love pairing chocolate chip with tempting turquoise or wild wasabi (how I will miss that color) or certainly celery.

This little tin is filled with pebble magnets. I buy the large glass pebbles at my local chain craft store and add super-strength magnets to the back with hot glue. These tins make great gifts or sticking stuffers.

We spend the weekend in Branson celebrating DH's parent's 50th wedding anniversary. What a fantastic milestone. The cousins got to swim and play together and have fun riding roller coasters at Silver Dollar City. Although I was really dreading the lines, it wasn't too bad and the weather held also. I was never a big roller coaster fan, but the older I get, the less nerve I have for riding them. I used the excuse that someone had to hold the bags, hats, cameras, glasses, etc.! Best of all, my little nephew (5) called me Uncle Conny all weekend and I was on the receiving end of lots of hugs!

eScape from the hectic, everyday world....

2008-06-04T23:14:00.006-05:00

Technology is great and often makes our hectic lives a little easier! But sometimes it's nice to take a step back and communicate the "old-fashioned" way--with a handwritten note. .

Plan now to join Stampin' Up! during the entire month of June in breaking free from the 'e'! Stampin' Up! has designated June 25, 2008 as eScape day--a day to put away your cell phones and laptops and focus on reconnecting with your "wireless network."

To help celebrate our love of the handwritten note, Stampin' Up! is offering an eScape Bundle (item 113700) during the month of June. The bundle contains:

Love Notes assortment p. 167 $8.95
Circle of Friendship stamp set p. 143 $17.95
Rose Red Classic Stampin' Pad p. 165 $5.25
Very Vanilla 5/8" grosgrain ribbon p. 191 $7.95
Total (non-bundled) $40.10 - eScape Bundle price $30.00

This is a great bundle with lasting value for stamping. Join me today in celebrating eScape, by placing your order soon.

Time Flies When You Are Having Fun!

2008-05-28T12:22:00.003-05:00

Boy, so much time has passed since the last time I updated. With the end of the school year and a multitude of spring sports activities on the calendar, May has passed me by in a blur. I have a bunch of new samples that I will be sharing with you soon and a new class scheduled for July in which we will make a Scrapbook Purse....so cute, I can't wait to see what you think.

Tomorrow is the last day of school, so I am taking the day off to play with my kids. I will leave you with an end of the school year special..........

Let the Summer Begin Sale
School is out and the summer is upon us and that means all sort of sales. With the kids flocking to the malls in droves, who wants to brave the crowds? And wouldn't you rather shop from the comfort of your own home?

So, what's better than having your order delivered right to your door?? No driving!
And what's better than not having to drive (besides free gas???

FREE SHIPPING! FREE SHIPPING! FREE SHIPPING!

Here's how it works:
Place an order ANY TIME from 10 am Friday, May 30 th, through 5 pm Monday, June 5 and get FREE SHIPPING on all orders $60 and over!(Orders totaling over $150 will get free hostess benefits!)

I am going to make this offer a little more exciting....Because I like to make my customers happy....

the 3rd person to order receives a FREE White Signo Uni-Ball Gel Pen,
the 5th person to order receives a FREE Package of Stamping Sponges, and
the 7th person to order receives a FREE Pack of Hemp Twine

Don't have Stampin' UP catalog? Just CLICK HERE to view our catalog online!
Make sure you take a look at the Occasions Mini Catalog. The mini catalog items are only available through June 30, so get them while they last.

Stampin' Up! is also offering a Chipboard special.... through May 31st. When you spend $35 on any Stampin' Up! products, you'll get 25% off all On Board chipboard products from pages 178-179 of the catalog.

And.....Get a free hobby blade when you purchase a Stampin' Up Cutting Mat on page 184 of the catalog.

To take advantage of this "Free Shipping" Special --

Email me at: stampopotamus@hotmail.com
Call me at: 217-725-9009 (cell) - Feel free to leave your order on my voice mail and I will call you back with your total.

I accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card or check.

Manic Monday

2008-05-12T16:14:00.003-05:00

Today has been a manic Monday for sure. This morning my DD complained of an "icky stomach" and we decided to keep her home from school. She rarely is ill and never wants to miss school, so we knew that she was not feeling well. Then this afternoon, the school called and DS is also complaining of nausea and a stomach ache. Hope that this doesn't mean a bout with influenza.

My dear friend Robin and I started out the week right with a 3 mile walk at 6 AM this morning. We are both trying to establish healthy eating and exercise habits, so we are hoping to walk together several times a week. Our neighborhoods adjoin, so we can each walk halfway and meet in the middle. Day one....success! What kind of good habits are you trying to build as we finally move into spring?

This cute little tote is made using Stampin' Up!'s retired Cutie Pie Designer Paper. The stamp set is one of my favorites -- Garden Whimsy. It is such a graphically clean stamp set. I added clear stickles to the spots on the butterfly wings to create some bling. I made this for my sweet sister who was undergoing treatment for breast cancer so that she could send thank you notes to her friends who have been so supportive.

Color Combos

2008-05-09T14:39:00.002-05:00

Do you ever have trouble putting together color combos? I have some tried and true favorites that I like to stick with....Certainly Celery and Chocolate Chip are my absolute faves. But sometimes, I am stumped or want to break out of a rut. Here is a great web site that allows you to put in a Stampin' Up! color and it will automatically generate coordinating colors. Or you can select the "Surprise Me" feature -- you never know what you will get!

http://www.scraptitude.com/colorcombo/

Happy Mother's Day to moms everywhere!

Patterned Paper Phobia

2008-05-07T13:08:00.009-05:00

I am a patterned paper addict (and a ribbon addict and a embossing addict, and on and on....), however my BFF just confessed that she has a phobia about patterned paper. She admires it and collects it, but isn't sure how to use it on her cards and scrapbook pages. I was surprised to hear this comment from such a talented stamper (her stuff is gorgeous and I admire her creativity...hi Sherry!). But in polling other friends, I realized that there is a lot of trepidation in using patterned paper.

I tend to collect beautiful patterned paper. I have been that way since my days as a student in Europe when I used to visit paper shops and purchase sheet after sheet of beautiful textured paper. However, because I love to collect it, I have built up quite a stash and I've found that using it is fun and exhilarating if it is used effectively. If you don't use it correctly, your card or scrapbook page can become a jumble mess. Here are some tips I've gleaned from the experts in various art media.

Stick with the Theme -- Don't use delicate flowered paper on a rugged sports-theme scrapbook layout of your son catching a football.

Be Prudent -- A little patterned paper goes along way, especially some of the bolder papers. A small border of bright color can be just what a card needs to make it pop, but too much patterned paper can overwhelm. Notice the card at right uses a small strip of patterned paper that fits the theme and draws the eye downward toward the stamped focal image.

Watch for Out-of-Whack Proportions -- If you are using a small and subtle the pattern, the photos can be smaller or the stamped images can be more delicate and still retain their focus. However, if you are using larger and bolder patterns, then your photo or stamped images have to be larger and more eye-catching so that they are not overwhelmed on your design.

Create a Border Around Patterned Papers -- Matting patterned paper or creating a border with solid cardstock or with ribbons or fibers is an effective way to keep the eye moving across the card or scrapbook page. See the border created with the So Saffron solid cardstock on the page at left.

Distress, Distress, Distress! -- I always tell my class that tearing, sanding or inking around the edges of patterned papers will create a softer edge to the pattern and will give it dimension without diluting the effect. It is one of the cheapest treatments you can apply.

Tone it Down -- If you want to use a particular patterned paper, but it is too bright for your design, tone it down with vellum. Vellum creates a classy, elegant effect and diffuses the colors and patterns to make them more subtle.

Happy stampin'..............Conny

Baby 6 x 6 Album

2008-05-06T22:02:00.014-05:00

Recently, I was commissioned by a coworker to create a 6 x 6 baby album for her niece's baby shower. This was one of the most fun projects I have done in a long time. I really got to stretch my creative wings! The mother-to-be does not know the sex of her baby yet, so I used some of my favorite Stampin' Up! colors -- Certainly Celery, So Saffron and Tempting Turquoise. I threw in lots of coordinating embellishments and ribbon of course! I used the SU linen ring-bound 6 x 6 album. I love ring-binder albums. They are easy to use and since I never scrap in chronological order, I can change page order in a snap. The album contained 20 pages. Here are a few pics of my pages. I also made a coordinating gift bag and card. Needless to say, Aunt Kate was thrilled with the result.

When making an album like this, I have found that using coordinating papers, like those available from SU makes the design process much easier. Although I don't have any baby-related stamps, my dear friends were able to loan me the now retired "I'm Here" set and Nursery Necessities (111049) which is in the 2008 Spring-Summer Collection.

Now I need to prepare for my May Stampin' Technique Class, which is held on Sunday, May 18 and Tuesday, May 20. One of the techniques we will trying this month is the Dahlia Fold.

Happy May Day!

2008-05-02T15:12:00.002-05:00

May is here and the April showers have brought some beautiful May flowers! Stampin' Up! is offering some fantastic specials for the month of May. Let me know if you have any questions about any of these great offers...............

Get On Board with Chipboard!

Promotion Dates: May 1-31, 2008
Promotion Details: Spend $35 on Stampin' Up! products and get 25 percent off any On Board items from the Spring-Summer Collection.

All On Board products (pages 178-179) qualify for this promotion.
109181 On Board Blossoms & Basics $11.21
109179 On Board Ginormous Pieces $11.21
107925 On Board Bitty Book $7.46
108495 On Board 5" x 5" Art Journal $5.21
107065 On Board Art Journal (5-3/4" x 8-3/4") $7.13
107307 On Board Accents $9.71
109182 On Board Lots of Letters $9.71
109180 On Board Simon Upper $9.71
107306 On Board Simon Lower $9.71
109192 On Board Clipboard (13" x 7-1/2") $11.96
109190 On Board Clipboard (9" x 9") $5.96
109191 On Board Clipboard (4-1/2" x 9") $4.88
110713 On Board Book Basics Large $5.96
110712 On Board Book Basics Small $4.46

There is no limit to the number of discounted chipboard products you may purchase once the qualifying order of $35 has been reached.
Customer order deadlines: Friday, May 30, 2008

Cutting Combo Pack Special Offer

Promotion Dates: May 1-31, 2008
Promotion Details: During the month of May, buy a Cutting Mat and get a Hobby Blade for FREE!Customers must use the Cutting Combo Pack item number (113421) in order to receive the free Hobby Blade.
Customer order deadlines: Friday, May 30, 2008

Hodgepodge Recruiting Special!

PromotionDates: May 1-31, 2008
Promotion Details: For the month of May, Join Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator and get 20 percent off the Starter Kit, PLUS a free tin of Hodgepodge Hardware (a $27.95 value). To make this offer even sweeter, I am offering free shipping on the starter kit and a free stamp set (value up to $25.95) so you will get almost $500 worth of Stampin' Up! products for only $159!

Hodgepodge Hardware assortment choices include:

105532 Aged Copper
105531 Antique Brass
105515 Pewter

Only Hodgepodge Hardware from the Spring-Summer Collection 2008 qualifies for this promotion; Hodgepodge Hardware from Occasions Mini Collection 2008 does not qualify.

Iould love for you to join my team and this is a great time to join The Stampin' Up! family!! Email me at stampopotamus@hotmail.com for more information!

Sunny Days...Finally!

2008-04-30T13:25:00.004-05:00

Today is turning into a beautiful day. I am so happy that we may finally be moving into warmer spring days after so many false starts. Yesterday, it barely go to 50 F -- our average temperatures for this time of year should be around 70 F!

Today's featured project makes a great little gift for a birthday girl. I covered hair clips using Stampin' Up!'s wide grosgrain ribbon in old olive of course! Then I added some of our new Felt Fusion flowers, silk flowers from the Pretties Kit and rhinestone brads. I also added some of our white rub-ons to the card sleeve that I punched with the slit punch so that the barrettes would stay.

I saw this project at the SU! Leadership Conference this Spring and thought it would be a wonderful little gift. This year I got to attend my first Leadership Conference. Stampin' Up! "rewards" demonstrators who have achieved Senior Supervisor status and above with a special conference designed just for them. This conference is full of business building classes and workshops that help demonstrators in getting the most out of their demonstratorship. I really enjoyed the camaraderie and sharing. SU demonstrators are some of the kindest and most generous people. They are willing to share tips and ideas freely. I had the best time....of course, being in Palm Springs, California in January wasn't bad either! Here is a picture of my dear friends from Springfield and I at the conference. Cheryl, Robin (my upline), and Claudia had a great time. We had adjoining rooms at the hotel and got to make swaps, eat and laugh together. I hope that I will be able to go again next year. The 2009 SU Leadership Conference will be held in Orlando, Florida. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a SU Demonstrator, please leave me a post or e-mail me. It is really a fulfilling hobby!

5 Stampin' Up! Products I Love...

2008-04-28T22:43:00.003-05:00

Although there are many SU products that I love, there are 5 that I can't be without --
1. Stampin' Up! card stock. I love that it comes in 48 beautiful colors, plus neutrals and In Colors. I never lack for a shade that is perfect for my project. The heavy weight quality makes it a joy to use.
2. Love, love, love the gorgeous ribbon....especially the new 5/8" striped grosgrain ribbon. My customers know that if Conny makes a card, it is almost guaranteed to have ribbon on it.
3. The new sterling silver Hodgepodge Hardware, currently available through the Occasions Mini Catalog. I have always enjoyed using (er...hoarding) the pewter Hodgepodge pieces, but the bright and shiny new silver pieces satisfy my need for bling!
4. Wild Wasabi anything. When the 2007-2008 In Colors were unveiled, I thought I died and went to Purely Pomegranate heaven...that is until I started using Wild Wasabi. Now it is hard for me to make a spring card without this amazing color.....of course I said the same thing about Cool Caribbean last year! LOL!
5. The Scallop Circle Punch is like a little black dress. It goes with anything and looks great for all occasions. I can't wait for the new scallop border punch that SU announced for the new catalog that will be available in August.

Wow...that was easy. I could have listed another 5 product faves without even trying very hard!

Stamp Sets for Sale

2008-04-27T09:14:00.004-05:00

It is spring time and the cleaning bug has attacked at the Moody home. I have been sorting clothes and getting things ready for a big Boy Scout garage sale that we are having in a few weeks. I have also cleaned out my stamping studio and am offering the following stamp sets for sale. All the stamps come from a smoke-free home. Some of the stamp sets have been well loved and have a few stained wood blocks, but many sets contain stamps that have never been inked at all. All Stampin' Up! sets come in their original cases with no missing pieces.

Email me to reserve the sets you are interested in. I will send the set(s) out as soon as I receive payment . I accept Credit Card, personal checks and money orders. I will send priority Mail in the US, so we will have a tracking number and delivery confirmation. Flat Rate Envelopes are $4.60 now, Flat Rate boxes $8.95. I can also ship internationally, but will have to go to the post office then to find out the shipping costs. Email me at stampopotamus@hotmail.com to reserve the sets you are interested in. If you live locally, there will be no shipping charges if we can make arrangements for pick up or deliver.

The original set price is listed in brackets, with the asking price after the hyphen.

Stampin' Up! Sets

A is for Adorable ($21.95) - $15.00
All the Best ($19.95) - $10.00
Tiny Talk ($16.95) - $10.00
Expressive Flexible Phrases ($39.95) - $20.00
Classic Alphabet, double mounted upper and lower case ($38.95) - $25.00
Classic Numbers ($16.95) - $5.00
Doodle Alphabet ($29.95) - $15.00
Doodle Numbers ($16.95) - $10.00
Shapes & Shadows ($29.95) - $10.00
Mixed Bouquet ($29.95) - $15.00
Season's Greetings ($29.95) - $20.00
Fun Filled ($16.95) - $5.00
Mini Messages ($16.95) - $5.00
Best Blossoms, Sell-A-Brations Set ($12.95 value) - $5.00
Label Classics - $10.00
Garden Silhouettes (Hostess) - $20.00
Double-Line Doodles - $20.00
In the Spotlight (Hostess) - $20.00

Other Stuff for Sale
Making Memories Foam Stamps Dingbats (6 stamps, $12.95 never used) - $5.00
All Night Media 1" circle punch ($5.99) - $2.00

Excuses, Excuses, Excuses!

2008-04-27T08:46:00.005-05:00

I didn't mean to let a whole week slip by without posting, but suddenly, here I am apologizing for not posting! Like all families at this time of year, we have been tremendously busy. With school activities, soccer and volleyball, and household chores. On top of all that, the kids had 3 days off school because our teachers attended a national Lutheran teacher's conference.

Alexander, Arianne and I traveled to Hannibal, Missouri, for a day trip. I lived in Hannibal for 10 years as a child, attending junior and senior high school there. It was fun to show my children around town and to see the sights I remember visiting as a child. We really enjoyed our trip through Mark Twain Cave. It was fascinating to see all of the old signatures written on the wall of the cave, some dating back to the early 1800s. Alexander was particularly interested in Jesse James' signature. He also astonished the guide by telling him that Mark Twain had been born in the year of Haley's Comet and died in the year of Haley's Comet 75 years later! We stopped for homemade root beer floats at the Mark Twain Dinette and penny candy at a cute little candy store.

Yesterday was my nephew's birthday. A happy birthday shout out to Drake! Drake is such a fun kid. He is a great student and active in sports, especially baseball. His cousins love to go and visit him and play touch football in the back yard. Alexander and Arianne are on the left in this photo. Although we don't see each other often enough, I love that when the cousins all get together, it is like they just said good-bye yesterday. Happy birthday young man! May you have a wonderful year filled with many great adventures. Love ya guy!

Saturday was also my Cool and Sassy Album class. Six people registered for the class, including two high school students and their moms. Kelly and Marissa (isn't that a beautiful name) were two of the nicest, kindest teens. They just sparkled yesterday. Although they had never made a project like this before, they did such an excellent job. Both of them were in awe of the embossing technique. I have often watched grownups' faces light up when they watch the embossing powder melt on their image, but watching Kelly and Marissa's excitement just tickled me. I really enjoyed working with them. I am going to have to work on designing more classes for teens and pre-teens. Children are such a joy to work with and I love to see how their creativity takes over when they gain confidence in themselves. Thanks Kelly and Marissa for making yesterday so much fun.

Earthquake!

2008-04-18T10:24:00.006-05:00

I woke up at 4:30 AM to house that was shaking and after a discombobulating moment, realized that we were in the middle of an earthquake! It was a truly bizarre experience and seemed to last about 30 seconds, although it felt like 10 minutes. We live in the Midwest, so earthquake tremors are not an everyday experience. I had the windows open in our bedroom and everything outside was deathly still. About a minute after the tremor ended, a duck quacked loudly and the birds started singing again. According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter of the earthquake -- the strongest in the region in 40 years a 5.2 on the Richter Scale -- was about seven miles below ground and 38 miles north-northwest of Evansville, Indiana. What an weird way to awaken on a Friday morning! Unbelievably, at 10:30 AM, we experienced a 4.5 after shock. What an amazing day.

This is a mini album that I made using a Simply Scrappin' Kit from Stampin' Up! The pictures are from a surprise trip to Disney World we took with our children, Alexander (11) and Arianne (8) in April 2007. I think that I have mentioned before that I am a "mini album junkie." These little art pieces are fun to scatter around the house for a quick memory of special times. They also make great gifts for friends and family.

I am always looking for new ideas on how to preserve memories in meaningful, but unique ways. I took a class with Ali Edwards, the scrapbook designer and author. She is very well know in scrapbooking circles and writes often about designing pages that reflect the everyday moments of our lives, not just special occasions. I have been trying to do more of that, so that in the future, my family will look back and see the love that filled every moment of our days. Ali talks eloquently about being a "Life Artist." I think that is an important concept for those of us who preserve memories for future generations through photography and scrapbooking.

Happy Tax Day!

2008-04-15T21:53:00.005-05:00

Yes...today is April 15th. I trust that you got your taxes completed and filed on time. We finished ours earlier this month, waiting much longer than normal. Somehow, life just gets in the way of good planning these days. Last night, I attended a school board meeting that went until 11:00 PM. I am pooped today! Luckily, the weather is finally getting better. The sun was shining and the temperature got up to 65 F today. Living in the midwest is so much fun.

This is a frame that I stamped for my Aunt and Uncle's 70th wedding anniversary. I love making decorated frames for gifts. They are beautiful and are so very personal. The stamp set is a retired Stampin' Up! set and all of the other elements (except for the rub ons) are from SU also. My Aunt and Uncle really enjoyed their gift. They remarked that they have few recent pictures of the two of them together. I hope that my husband and I are as blessed as they have been.

Scrappy Sunday

2008-04-13T17:54:00.002-05:00

My kids are the joy of my life and each year they are more and more fun. At 8 and 10 years old, we can take them anywhere with us and we do! The photo in this layout was taken at Christmas time. I wanted to play around with my new camera and shot this picture from above. Since they were wearing Christmas colors, I edited the photo to black and white to use it on this page. The large chipboard letters are from Stampin' Up! On Board Simon Lower Chipboard Alphabet and are covered in patterned paper. The felt flowers are from the Flower Fusion kit.

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-04-09T21:28:00.004-05:00

I have been very busy completing a scrapbook for my in-laws who are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this weekend. My wonderful sister-in-law is planning a surprise anniversary party for them. I haven't done a lot of stamping lately because of work and the children's school activities. Soccer season has started for both kids and volleyball is still winding down. One of the projects I taught at my February technique class was "Faux Silk." This technique is beautiful when you see it up close because it is very subtle and elegant. For this card I used the Stampin' Up! Embrace Life stamp set.

Supplies Needed:

Stamps, Aqua Painter
Classic ink
Tissue Paper
Adhesive, i.e., Glue Stick
Cardstock and Neutral Cardstock (i.e., Very Vanilla)Embellishments, as desired

Step-by-Step:

1. Carefully stamp image on Neutral Cardstock. Add additional ink with aqua painter if desired.
2. Crumple tissue paper and unfold. Smooth slightly, but leave creases. This will give the look of raw silk.
3. Spread glue stick over stamped cardstock, making sure that all edges are covered.
4. Smooth tissue paper over stamped cardstock and trim edges.
5. Finish card as desired.

Hope you enjoy it!

Wow Wednesday!

2008-04-09T08:30:00.004-05:00

This week's Wednesday Wow is how to make a paper bow using double-sided paper. The picture at right shows each of the steps. With pretty patterned paper around, you will never be without a bow for a present when a special occasion sneaks up on you!

Supplies Needed:
6” x 12” Double-sided Patterned Designer Paper (DSP)
Paper Cutter
Dimensionals
Double-stick Tape
Brads
1/16” circle punch

Step By Step:
1. Cut 8 strips 1” x 6” DSP; 4 strips of 1” x 5” DSP; and 1” x 4” DSP. Note, it is important to cut the 1” x 4” strip before cutting the 1” x 5” strips.

2. Put adhesive on bottom of each strip and wrap the strips into a semi-cone shape. Criss-cross ends slightly. These “loops” will form the “petals” of the bow.
3. Use the 1/16” circle punch to punch a hole at the bottom of each petal.
4. Use a brad to attach 4 petals together.
5. Place a dimensional in the center of each layer.
6. Stack each layer, alternating the direction of the points.
7. Use 1” x 4” strip to form a circle and attach in center of paper bow with double-stick tape.

Scrapbooking

2008-04-08T14:56:00.008-05:00

I have been a scrapbooker since I was in high school. I have always enjoyed keeping memories and pictures of special ocassions, vacations and fun times in my life. Looking back now at some of my old scrapbooks makes me laugh. My children have so much fun looking at my pictures and asking about the people and places in my scrapbooks. It is also a great trip down memory lane to see the clothing styles and the hair styles of days gone by. Today, I can't believe that once upon a time I wore "pegged" jeans, a polo shirt, and sprayed my bangs sky high...can you guess when I was in high school?

Last year, I came across a website that has sketches for scrapbooking...Got Sketch? (see the link at right) by Valerie Salmon. Val is a tremendous designer and you have probably seen her designs in Memory Makers and BHG Scrapbooks Etc. When she had a call seeking contributors for 8 1/2" x 11 " pages, I submitted my gallery for consideration and she chose me! Val sends us a sketch and then we design a page using any product we would like. I am really honored to be able to participate. I really enjoy the sketch process because it allows you to free yourself up creatively. By using a sketch, you are able to think about colors and elements, rather than being stuck on the compositon of the format.

This is a page that I designed for Got Sketch? using a now retired Simply Scrappin' Kit by SU!

Mini Album Class

2008-04-07T14:37:00.005-05:00

I was challenged by one of my technique class members to design a mini album for teens so that she and her daughter could have some fun together. I wasn't sure that I was up to the challenge until I saw Stampin' Up!'s fun new Spring Break designer paper. I made a cute little 5 x 5" mini album that passed the "teen" approval process! What do you think? Is it sassy enough?

I have scheduled a class for Saturday, April 26 from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM. The cost is $30 per person. Below is the class description. If you are interested in joining me, give me a call at 217-725-9009.

Cool and Sassy Mini Scrapbook Album Class
This fun class is especially designed for teens, tweens and anyone who is young at heart. Using the So Cool and Sweet and Sassy stamp sets, you will make a 10 page mini album that can be filled with pictures, quotes and other memorabilia. This mini-album is perfect for senior class or prom pictures or to journal a special school year.

Class includes:
Mini 5” x 5” Spiral-bound Art Journal
Stampin’ Up! Spiral Punch
Stampin’ Up! Spring Break Designer Paper (1/2 package)
Various Embellishments
Instruction

Venturing into Blogland!

2008-04-06T17:43:00.004-05:00

After all of this time, I am finally venturing into the land of the bloggers! There are so many amazing stamping blogs out there that I don’t think I will be able to compete, however, I will use this space to provide a glimpse into my stamping space!

It is a beautiful Sunday afternoon and I think that spring has finally sprung. This spring-y card was made using the Bloomin’ Beautiful (111490) stamp set from the Stampin’ Up! Occasions Mini Collection 2008. The image is stamped in Stazon ink and watercolored using classic inks and an aquapainter.