OK, in looking at the title of this post, I want to make something pretty clear. . . . I am not feeling Vintage – but, was on a bit of a roll recently with my card making.  Now I could be feeling vintage personally – I am working VERY hard at loosing a bit of weight and exercising has become a big part of that.  So far about 16 pounds have been shed. . . but so much more to go.  I've never felt this motivated before, the only difference is that I am exercising very regularly.

So exercise?  Yep, I have found (against my firmest beliefs) that my body LOVES exercising in the morning – so 5:30 every M, W, F you will find me at Body Pump!  On the other days, I have alternated between walking on the treadmill, a core conditioning class and working on a machine that I call "killer".   haha!  I tried a boot camp class and decided this body couldn't do the things I asked of it!      

So, let's tackle the other question I hinted at last week and perhaps a bit of why I have had a few days hiatus from posting. . . . My dear best friend and husband is having a life challenge right now.  The job he has held for almost 38 years may be going away. . .    So, we have been looking into options, doing some financial planning, etc.  Nothing definate yet but, we are praying hard, trying to be positive and taking good care of ourselves and each other right now. 

Alright – now for the fun stuff like this card!   I think it is very simple and cute!!!!!  And it could be for a guy.  Here's what I used;

• Cardstock;  Very Vanilla, Early Espresso, Botanical Gazette DSP from spring mini
• Ink:  Early Espresso, Kraft
• Accessories:  Neutrals buttons, Crumb Cake Seam Binding (spring mini), Champagne Shimmer Paint, Sticky Strip, Dimensionals, Linen thread
• Big Shot:  Petal Cone Die (the "for you" tag), Finial Press embossing folder (I coated with crumb cake ink prior to embossing)

This will be one of the cards at my sympathy and man card class on Monday, March 28!   RSVP today!

Visiting Stampin' Up!'s home office was a highlight on my recent trip to convention.  Especially since my downline and I were given the opportunity for a VIP tour!   One of the best highlights is their idea rooms – check out these highlights! 

 Isn't it amazing what can be done with Stampin' Up! products, a little paper or fabric?   (Fabrice – yep check it out!   Coming soon to the mini catalog near you!)  While I have a great desk – the one in the picture looks soooo inviting!  The fireplace just speaks to me of relaxed time with a cup of tea and a nice warm fireplace.  The bedroom – hmmmm, my niece just painted her walls pink – I think I need to encourage her to try ou the flower touches – they look so great!  I hope you feel as inspired as I do when I see pics like this!

Here are my Easter baskets this year. . . using the scallop square and the Big Shot of course!  Don't you love it!  Just too stinkin' cute!  The flower is made out of fleece and is cut from the clear Flower die. 

My craft room is in a bit of an upheavel as I am getting new cabinets.  You won't want to miss the BIG reveal at Club nights April 6 and 7 (I hope!)   I'm excited about the new cabinets but the mess is driving me crazy!    There are surprises in the works for the Big reveal (a new technique, great promotion, fun fun fun!)  So, don't miss it!!!! 

Here’s a quick and easy Halloween decoration.  Isn’t it boootiful!       I used the Scallop square die and the Serif Essentials alphabet.  The finishing touches from the Eat, Drink and be Scary stamp set.   Give me a call if you are interested in making this quick and easy banner!

Do you belong to Twitter or Facebook?  If you do, look for me and follow my posts.  I am "stampinbj" on both of these social networking sites. 

Are you checking the weekly specials from Stampin’ Up!  There are some fantastic deals out there!  This weeks specials are;

• Perfect Setting Die – Sale $25.99
• Flower Burst Embosslet Die – Sale $5.99
• Pop-Up Three Tier Cake Die – $25.49