This layout is created in My Digital Studio and was July's page in my husbands calendar which he received for Christmas.  Last summer, Jim took our oldest grandson Danny up to visit my Dad for a weekend.  Of course they spend a bunch of time fishing.  That's my dad fishing with them.  Pretty good looking gentleman too for a 78 year old! 

If you haven't yet looked into My Digital Studio, I would recommend it.  While I didn't think I would be a fan – I truly am.  Here's what I am lovin;

• versatility – calendars, scrapbooks, DVD slide shows, multiple sizes, etc
• efficiency – we all would like more time – this program allows me to complete my scrapbooks quickly and easily with impressive layouts.  Plus I don't have the mess of getting my stuff out – doing a bit and then putting it away.
• Cost – oh man – at $79 – this is a steal!  There are over $500 worth of stamp sets, punches, papers, accessories, etc in the program.  Sure, I can purchase more downloads – but, I can choose what I want – and they are still cheaper than buying all of the paper and accessories I used to by
• Printing – so many options – hardcover, softcover, leather.  Print on your own or for an awesome print and binding job – I totally recommed ordering through Stampin' Up!  Ladies, there is a big difference in quality.

Stampin' Up! provides new downloads most every week so it is easy to check them out and see if there is something that is in your style or fits your needs.  The beauty is that you only have to buy it once to use again and again – no more running out of your favorite paper!

Here are the latest downloads this week;

• Sweet details alphabet & numbers  125745
• Tickets and Tokens II digital Kit  125757
• Sunset Serenade kit  124229
• Sunset serenade stamp brush set  125754
• Delightful Digital Tape  125752
• Lovely as a Tree stamp bursh set  125779
• Dot, Dot, Dot stamp brush  125760
• A to Z stamp Brush  125761
• Solid Stripes Stamp Brush  125762
• Fine Flourish stamp brush  125763

Here's the sweet spot kicker. . .. Stampin' Up! has created a "space" for everyone to share ideas and get inspired.  This isn't just for Stampin' Up! demonstrators (we demos have access to TONS of ideas!).  So check out this space at www.mydigitalstudio.net    When you go, you'll see the headlines of "Exciting News!"

Blessings!

I decided I wanted to do a little pick me up for my hubby.  He's just the best!  As I mentioned in yesterday's post, work is a little stressful for him right now. . . . and I wanted to let him know that I'm there to support him.  I had purchased this chunky frame from the Definately Decorative Catalog (117599) after seeing what Shelli Gardner had shown at the Minneapolis Regional.  I'm super excited at how it turned out!   What do you think?

I am thinking this would be an awesome gift for many occasions;  weddings, birthday, someone who is difficult to buy for, etc. . . . I think I might just have to purchase another frame or two! 

Here's a couple of close up shots;

Here's the ingredients;

• Cardstock:  Crumb Cake, Woodland Walk DSP (117389)
• Ink:  Craft ink used – Garden Green, Early Espresso, Soft Suede
• Stamp Set:  Inspired by Nature
• Big Shot:  Tasteful Trim, Beautiful Wings embosslet
• Accessories:  Clear embossing power, Metallic Brads, Glue Dots, Decorative Label Punch, Antique Brads, Scallop Ribbon border punch, 1 1/4" Striped Grosgrain Ribbon in Early Espresso

A few details – cuz I know you are thinking that you would love to try this project out!

• the DSP is glued onto the frame with our Tombo multi-purpose adhesive
• the ribbon is made using a technique I learned from Cherie Manderscheid (an awesome upline) at the Minneapolis Regional.  I simply sewed elastic onto the back of the ribbon!
• The flowers are stamped with craft ink and then embossed with clear embossing powder
• The butterflies stand out just a bit – I made that happen by using the brads to give the back a shape – instead of having the "legs" of the brad flat, have them end up in a "V" shape – then use glue dots to adhere to your project.
• Can't find the Tasteful Trim die?  It was in the Holiday mini and is still available!

I also want to take a moment to thank my customers and friends for the words of encouragement you have sent.  We're at peace with whatever happens. . . prayer is powerful.  One of the things we have talked about is perhaps working our Stampin' Up! business just a bit more!  I love having a business that I can do that with! 

Blessings!