MCT Design Team Farewell Blog Hop: Love Wedding Card

My Giveaway Today

Today is the day. It's the last Blog Hop for the current MCT Design Team. It's so much fun being on this
team. Not only do we get to work with AWESOME products, but the team really becomes a family of sorts.

During the Hop, EACH Design Team member has a giveaway. To enter to win, just leave comments on the blog posts. Emma will announce all of the will on Monday, 12/23/13 on her blog. I'm giving away the Hexy Background Stamp (pictured right).

If you love seeing all of the Design Team creations, you'd probably LOVE actually being ON the Design Team, too! Today is the LAST DAY to get your DT submission in to be considered to be on the 2014 team. You can find out more information here.

For my project today, I've created a clean and simple card for a friend of my husband and I who just got married this week. We were SHOCKED when we found out the news. And we weren't the only ones. Only  their parents knew they were up and getting married. What an exciting time!

We are celebrating with the couple tomorrow at a very casual house party. Of course, we can't show up empty-handed! We're not quite sure what to give them yet (The Hubs would like to bring a gift and not just a check), but I knew we'd need a card. Voila!

Since the newlyweds are pretty low-key, I decided to keep the card that way, too. I stamped "LOVE" from 100% Sweetness onto the larger die from Square Stitched Goody Dies.

The wedding bands were made from different size circle punches. A little paper piercing around the edge of the blue layer adds some more texture while the pop dots behind some of the layers give the card dimension.

***SALE ALERT***
This weekend, My Creative Time is having a sale on all IN STOCK items! Just use the code: FARWELL2013 to receive 25% off. The sale is going on NOW and ends on Sunday, 12/22 at 11:59pm PST. Save on your IN STOCK items NOW!

Thanks so much for joining us on the Farewell Blog Hop today. I'm your last stop. Have a great weekend and a Merry Christmas!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 5 Days of Christmas: Gift Card Sandwiches

Welcome to the My Creative Time 5 Days of Christmas. Today is day 3 and the designers have some great Christmas projects to show you! For each of the five days, we will have a giveaway. You can check out Emma's blog for information on today's giveaway.

As I've shared before, The Hubs and I have a TON of gift cards to give for Christmas this year. Two of our nieces (Jenna, age 8 + Mariah, age 7) are very girly and love to shop. They've asked for gift cards to Justice for Girls this year. Ask and ye shall receive!

It's usually a no-brainer to wrap gift cards: throw them in a box or an envelope and you're all set. With so many to give this year, I wanted to switch it up a bit. So the girls are getting Gift Card Sandwiches. Who doesn't love a sandwich?

Disclaimer: This is a totally made-up name that I'm hoping will go viral in the crafting/blogging world. Spread the news. :o)

These 'sandwiches' are simply made by 'smooshing' two chipboard coasters together with a gift card glue-dotted inside. I then tied a bow around the sandwich to keep it together.

By the way, have you seen the wonderful bow-tying technique that doesn't leave any knots or bumps? Check this out. Totally worth it.

I decorated my Sandwiches using fabulous stamps + dies from MCT (recipe below).

MCT Products Used
A Day In December Stamp Set ("Believe" Star)
From Our Family To Yours Stamp Set (Bell + Tree)
Warm Holiday Fun Stamp Set (Stocking + Ornament Tag Dies)
Just Tags Stamp Set ("To:")

Thanks for stopping by today!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Black Friday Mini Release Blog Hop: No Peeking!

Happy Black Friday! Welcome to the MCT Black Friday Mini Release Blog Hop. You probably came here from Shar's blog, but if not, head on over to Emma's blog to start from the beginning.

I hope you had a blessed Thanksgiving with your families yesterday. After our 10K Turkey Trot, The Hubs and I went to his parents' house for a HUGE feast with family. We always have such a great time with them! Today, I'll head down there again to meet The Hubs for leftover lunch and I'll be sure to bring my Tupperware to bring some yummy food home. Who's not cooking for the next few days? THIS GIRL!

For today's project, I create this sweet little tag for one of my Gift Exchange presents this year. I used the Just Tags dies for the base and some new products to decorate it. The turquoise sparkly stars, yellow star and "No Peeking" present are from the brand new set, A Day In December. The grid background is from today's newly released, Get Schooled.

I thought it would be fun to 'dress up' my star, so I added the hat and mittens from Classy Girl Accessories. How fun is that?!?!

The new stamps and dies are available for PRE-ORDER right now and will start shipping out on Tuesday, 12/3. Not only are these stamps perfect for your "December Dailies", but they will work great for your Christmas cards, layouts, Smashbooks and 3D projects!

FREEBIE ALERT: Everyone who places an order this weekend will receive this NEW set called, Shine Bright.

BLACK FRIDAY DISCOUNT: Use the coupon code BLACKFRI2013 this weekend ONLY at the My Creative Time online store and you'll receive 25% off your ENTIRE order (new items included). The sale starts NOW and ends on Sunday, 12/1 at 11:59pm PST. What are you waiting for? Start shopping!
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That's all for me, but you still have ONE more stop! Click on over to TeriBeri's blog for more fabulous ideas!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 28th Release Blog Hop: Classy Gift Card Holder

Hey there! Are you hopping along with the My Creative Time team today? If so, you've probably arrived here from Tracy's blog. If you haven't already seen all the designers' fabulous projects today, head on over to Emma's blog to start this Hop from the beginning.

I've said before that I have A LOT of gift cards to give for Christmas this year. This classy gift card box is going to my mother-in-law.

I used all new products on my project. The Fun Stitched Edges Dies made the perfect little snow drifts in my scene. I decked my girl all out using Classy Girl & Furbaby Dies + Classy Girl Accessories Dies. There are a lot of really cute accessories to go with this classy girl!

The red satin bow adds some more Christmas spirit and the glitter on the snow banks and hat/mitten trim is so festive!

****BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY****
We will have TWO winners for our Blog Hop Giveaway:

Winner #1 ~  $50 gift card to the My Creative Time Online Store
Winner #2 ~  $25 gift card to the My Creative Time Online Store

To enter to win, just leave your comments on the Design Team blogs! You are NOT required to comment on ALL blogs, but the more you comment, the more chances you have to win! GOOD LUCK!

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***FREE STAMP WITH PURCHASE***
Emma is offering this adorable Angel Policy Stamp for FREE with all orders from now until Sunday, 11/24/13 at 11:59pm PST! No need to add it to your cart; the stamp will automatically be sent with your order! Learn more about this stamp here. If you miss out on this freebie this weekend, it WILL be available for purchase starting on Monday 11/25! If you are interested in the digital version of this stamp, you can download it for FREE here.

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Thanks so much for hopping along with us today! I'm your last stop.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

PS: Don't forget that today through next Wednesday, you can save 20% on your entire order (including this new release) by using code: NOV2013 at the My Creative Time Online Store! Sale ends 11/27 @ 11:59pm PST.

MCT 28th Edition Sneak Peek: 26.2 Ornament

The Hubs and I have had quite a year! We spent 28 weeks training to run our first full marathon - that's longer than it took to plan our wedding!

Each year, we like to add a new ornament to our Christmas tree that celebrates something special that year. So for this year's ornament, I made our own personal 26.2 Christmas bulb. And it was super easy!

Using a clear glass bulb, I simply squirted a bit of Glitter-It! by Beacon inside. I swished it around to fully coat the inside of the bulb and set the bulb upside-down in a plastic cup to let the extra Glitter-It! drip out. Then I poured some glitter (I used Martha Stewart Turquoise Fine Glitter) into the bulb, shook it up to coat the sides and poured the extra back into the jar. Once the glitter and 'glue' set, I put the top of my bulb back on. The "26.2" are simple white stickers from Recollections.

Did you see the super-cute bow on the top of my ornament? That's MCT's newest Fun Size Scallop Stitched Bow Die (available to order on Friday). If you have the Small + Medium Bow Dies, this would be a great addition to your collection!

Mosey on over to Emma's blog to see all the other fabulous sneaks for today. I'll see you back here Friday for the Release Blog Hop!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Totally Treats Tuesday: Gift Card Letter

This year, so many of our nieces and nephews have requested gift cards for Christmas. They may not be as exciting for me to buy, but they don't have to be boring to wrap!

Our nephew, Chris, turned 16 this year and bought his first car. Since he doesn't yet have a job, gas money can be a touchy situation. Enter the BP gas card!

Now, let's be honest: a 16-year-old boy isn't going to be impressed with my crafty wrapping of his gift card. So I kept it simple and used the Scallop Stitched Envelope as 'real mail' and decorated it using the Build A Postcard + Postcard Add-Ons stamp sets.

Did you know that the 3x4 Journal Die fits PERFECTLY inside the Scallop Stitched Envelope?!?!?! 

Awesome.

Check out Emma's blog today to see what the other designers created for Totally Treats Tuesday! And meet me back here tomorrow for the first day of SNEAKS for the 28th Edition!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 3D Wednesday: Christmas Planner

Can you believe it? Christmas is coming! I am so stinkin' excited, I can hardly contain myself.

But as you probably know, Christmas doesn't always travel alone. Sometimes, it brings stress with it. One of the ways I've found to be less stressed during the Christmas season is to be organized. Having lists and notes really helps to clear my head so I don't get so overwhelmed.

Last year, I shared my 2012 Christmas List with you. It was so handy to have - everything in its place! This year, I've gone a different route - a reusable planner that will be with me for a few seasons.

I found this "Believe" book in the dollar bin at Michaels and it really caught my eye. I knew that with a few tabs, it would be PERFECT for my Christmas planner.

The front of the book was so sweet and simple. Since I've decided that my theme for this year's Christmas season is pretty & simple, I decided to just leave it.

I used the Stitched Tab Die to separate my sections: To Do, Presents, Christmas Eve Eve. By adhering the tabs onto pages in the book and leaving LOTS of pages behind each tab, each year I can just rip out the pages from the previous year and keep on keepin' on!

On the inside, I kept it simple and added a little pocket on the cover for gift receipts using the Scallop Stitched Envelope Die. So that I didn't have a blank first page (since I didn't put anything on the tabbed pages), I printed out some Christmas Subway Art (same art I used in 2011, just re-colored to match my book) and cut it out with the 4x6 Stitched Journal Die.

I can't wait to start filling this baby out! Bring on the jingle bells!

Stop on over at Emma's blog to see what the other designer's have for you today.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Scrapping the Little Things: Corktown 5K

I have been just cruising along in my Running Smashbook lately! This layout combines the Corktown 5K we ran in March with a page filled with my favorite running quotes and sayings.

Since the Corktown 5K was St. Paddy's Day themed, the rainbow papers were perfect! I used green and orange card stock to keep with the theme and added the "Treasured Moments" sentiment from the Treasured Moments stamp set. (Get it? Treasure... Like the gold at the end of the rainbow?)

FABULOUS was already on the page on the right. Instead of covering it up with paper, I decided to just write around it (and inside of it) for a more personal touch. I'm not a big fan of my handwriting, but it's mine. These are just some of the sayings that keep me motivated to hit the pavement.

Be sure to check out what the other designers have in store for you today on Emma's blog. And you WON'T want to miss Emma's HUGE announcement here!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Totally Treats: Everlasting Gobstoppers

Every Halloween, my brother and his family come over to my house so that my niece, Evelyn, can trick-or-treat in our neighborhood. I hate to brag, but our neighbors do a FAB job with candy and one even sets up a FREE photobooth each year!

This year, Evelyn (who will be 7 in December) has decided that she'd like to trick-or-treat for half of the night and help pass out candy for the other half. Like The Hubs and me, she likes to see all the kids' costumes. 

Wanting to be sure that I had her favorite candy on hand, I asked Evelyn what she likes. Her answer? Gobstoppers.

I'm more of a chocolate candy girl myself, so I didn't buy the mixed bags of candy that included the Gobstoppers to pass out (after all, when all is said and done, WHO'S eating all the leftovers?!?!?!). But I made sure to pick Evelyn up her very own box of Gobstoppers.

MCT Products Used

3x3 Trifold Card Die

Medium Stitched Scallop Bow Die

Fright Night Stamp Set

Since it is Halloween Week, I thought I'd share our costumes that we wore this weekend. Not only did we have three parties to go to, but we also got to run in a Halloween-themed 10K. 

My girlfriends and I went as Three Blind Mice and The Hubs was "The Fox". We had a great time and a great run! 

Thanks for stopping by today! Be sure to swing by Emma's blog to see what the other designers have created for Totally Treats Tuesday!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Halloween Hustle: Witch Hat Headband

Welcome to My Creative Time's week of Halloween Hustle! This week we will share 5 days worth of last minute ideas to trick your treats!  You will also see 3D projects, home decor and cards!  Hopefully you are ready for some Halloween Hustle Fun!

We will have giveaways all week: check Emma's blog to see what is up for grabs each day!  If you missed out on last week's sale, for this weekend ONLY - starting TODAY, 10/25/2013 @ 12:01am PST through Sunday 10/27/2013 @ 11:59pm PST - you can use the code OCT2013 to get 20% off your entire order in the My Creative Time Online Store!  And don't miss out on the NEW Teeny Tag Holidays stamp set available this Friday!

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Tomorrow is going to be a busy, busy day of Halloween FUN! First, we start our day off with a Halloween-themed 10K race in the morning. The best part? We get to dress up! My two running buddies and I are going as Three Blind Mice (...see how they run... LOL, get it?). The Hubs will be The Fox.

After the race, The Hubs and I are attending a Pumpkin Carving Party and then I have a Witch-themed jewelry party to go to in the evening. Phew! It'll be a little hectic jumping from one thing to another, but so much fun!

For the jewelry party, we were all asked to wear a witch hat. But I didn't want to walk into the party with the same hat as someone else! *gasp* That would be a travesty! So I decided to (kinda) make my own.

Now, I have to give my Mom major kudos for this one. I had called her about my idea for my headband hat and she kept her eye out for fun stuff while she was out shopping. In one shopping trip, she found two headbands (one black with black sparkly tulle, and one with the fancy green hat on it) that would work PERFECT for my project. And they were around $5 each. Score!

After cutting off some tulle from the hat and merging the two headbands together, all I had to do was add a bit of purple using MCT's Rolled Flower Dies and I was set!

Tip: If you have single-sided patterned paper (one side is plain white), but you want a design on the inside and outside of the rolled flower, simply cut the flower out twice in the two patterns you want. On the second cut, FLIP the paper over so you're cutting it out upside down. (First cut: patterned side up; Second cut: patterned side down). Then, glue your cuts together with the patterned sides showing. Now you'll have double-sided paper flowers!

I can't wait to show off my fancy hat at the party tomorrow! Head on over to Emma's blog to see what the rest of the designers have in store for the last day of Halloween Hustle.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Halloween Hustle: Halloween Treat Flag

Welcome to My Creative Time's week of Halloween Hustle! This week we will share 5 days worth of last minute ideas to trick your treats!  You will also see 3D projects, home decor and cards!  Hopefully you are ready for some Halloween Hustle Fun!

We will have giveaways all week: check Emma's blog to see what is up for grabs each day!  If you missed out on last week's sale, for this weekend ONLY - starting this Friday 10/25/2013 @ 12:01am PST through Sunday 10/27/2013 @ 11:59pm PST - you can use the code OCT2013 to get 20% off your entire order in the My Creative Time Online Store!  And don't miss out on the NEW Teeny Tag Holidays stamp set available this Friday!

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I love to bake. Even more, I love to receive compliments on my baking. Is that bad?

This weekend, The Hubs and I are attending a few Halloween events, and I've offered to bring 'my' famous Pumpkin Spice Muffins. The recipe isn't originally mine. But since I'm the only one around these parts that bakes them, I've claimed it as mine. Fair enough.

When I bake 4 dozen muffins for adults, I want them to be cute, but I don't necessarily want to go too crazy with decorating them. So a very simple flag does the trick... get it...? trick...

The little flag was creating using the die from Chocolate Greetings. Using MCT's new stamp set, Teeny Tag Holidays (available on Friday), I stamped the sentiment in two steps (since the original stamp has the two parts on separate lines) onto my flag.

Since I want my Pumpkin Spice Muffins to be fresh this weekend, I've used an extra chocolate cupcake I had from baking for a friend's birthday yesterday as a 'stand-in' for my photo.

There's more to see on Emma's blog today - head on over and check it out!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

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Pumpkin Spice Muffins Recipe
Makes 12 - 16 muffins

Ingredients
1 15oz. can of pumpkin
1 box of Spice Cake mix (I recommend Duncan Hines)

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees (F).

In a large bowl, combine ingredients (Do NOT add anything that the box mix tells you such as eggs and oil. You ONLY need the mix itself.).

Fill paper-lined muffin tins with batter.

Bake for 20 minutes.

27th Release Blog Hop: All Boy Baby Card

Welcome, welcome! You've probably hopped here from Tracy's blog. If you haven't, you can start this Blog Hop from the beginning at Emma's blog. Go ahead, I'll wait.

Today I'm showcasing the new Small Stitched Scalloped Bow Die. This card is for a baby shower I'm going to tomorrow afternoon.

As you've probably guessed, IT'S A BOY! But the scallops on the bow die are a bit...girly. No problem! A little snip here and there and - VOILA! - they're gone! Easy peasy.

The sentiment is from Life is Good and I used a cloud embossing folder to 'baby' up the shirt. Looking at it, it's not much of a baby card, but I still think it's pretty cute.

***BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY***
For our blog hop giveaway, we will have 2 winners!

Winner #1: $50 gift card to the My Creative Time Online Store!
Winner #2: will be our "Guest Designer" for our Next Release!

To enter to win, all you have to do is leave your comments on our blogs! You are NOT required to comment on ALL blogs, but the more blogs you comment on, the more chances you have! GOOD LUCK!
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The Hop isn't over yet! Click on over to our Guest Designer, Heather's, blog for more fun!

Thanks for stopping by today!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 27th Edition Sneak Peek: Simply Sweet Treat Box

Have you ever had a really great idea and it actually WORKS?!?! Mine can seem few and far between, but ladies and gents - it happened!

When I first saw the new MCT Scalloped Stitched Envelope Die, I just knew there was more to it than an envelope. So I thought outside the box. Or maybe this is thinking IN the box? Either way - now it's a box.

To create my box, I cut the envelope out twice. The bigger flaps of each die cut are on the 'outside' of the box (see side view photo). The little circle that comes with the die serves as the 're-enforcement' for the eyelet that the rope strings through. I cut a piece of card stock at 3-1/8" x 2-1/4" to make a bottom.

This simple little box would be perfect for some sweet treats, don't you think? Add some tissue and cookies and you've got a great little package for someone special!

MCT Products Used

Scalloped Stitched Envelope Die (pre-order starts today!)

Life is Good Stamp Set ("Sweet")

Here's Lookin' at You Stamp Set ("simply")

***Sneak Peek Giveaway***

Today Emma is giving away the Scalloped Stitched Envelope Die to ONE lucky reader! The winner will be announced on her blog tomorrow. ALL you have to do is leave a comment on each of our blogs for a chance to win. You are NOT required to comment on EVERY SINGLE blog, but the more you comment on, the better chance you have to win! 

For EXTRA entries, you can spread the word about this release on Facebook, tweet about it OR even Instagram it! #mycreativetime!

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE & let's start spreading the word!

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Are you IN LOVE with this release?!?! Great news! You can start PRE-ordering today! Don't forget to SAVE 20% on your ENTIRE order with code OCT2013.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. You can see what the other designers have up their sleeves over at Emma's blog. I'll see you back here tomorrow for the 27th Release Blog Hop.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Scrapping the Little Things: Races of 2012

So there I was: sitting at my craft table, staring at the photos of the races I ran in 2012 thinking, I have to make an entire PAGE for each race? But I only have one photo each... And then it hit me. Why does each race need its own page? There are no rules to this.

So instead I created a 'map' layout of all of the 2012 races ordered chronologically. Little arrows guide you around the layout. I wrote small descriptions of fun facts about each race: who ran with us, what happened, what my favorite part was, etc.

MCT Products Used
You Are Here (arrows)
Label Font ("2012")
Type Calendar ("June 30")

Thanks for stopping by today! Be sure to check out Emma's blog to see what the other designers have for you.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Fave Stamp of the Month: Home Is Where Your Heart Is...

My BFF, Stephanie, just purchased her first house. It's not a new house. In fact, it's not really even a new-to-her house. After months of searching for the perfect place, it turns out that home was right where she started: the house she grew up in.

I created this very simple little card to congratulate her on her new place. It can be tough for me to keep things super simple, but I like the clean, crisp look it gives.

MCT Products Used
Home Sewn Stamp Set
100% Sweetness Stamp Set (heart die)

You can see what the other designers have for you today on Emma's blog.

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Designer Challenge: Fall Colors

Welcome to another Designer Challenge with My Creative Time. Today my fellow Design Team sister, Cheryl, has challenged us to create a Fall-themed project using Fall colors.

For my challenge project, I decided to create a sweet little tag that I can attach to a home decor project, batch of cookies or gift.

The tag was cut out using the Just Tags Dies and I stamped the pumpkin and sentiment from Piles of Smiles. The pumpkin was colored with my Copics and the wood grain background is an original design that I created on my computer.

Be sure to check out what the other designers have in store for you today on Emma's blog. While you're there, why don't you jump in and join us? You can submit your project on Emma's blog.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Scrapping the Little Things: Smashin' 2012

I'm not sure if I'm "Smashing" the right way, but I'm having fun! (and I don't think there is a right or wrong way anyway)

Today's Smash layout is the 'title page' to my 2012 race 'section' in my new Smash book. Sometimes, separating a scrapbook into categories is just what it needs to flow nicely and not let the 'reader' get lost.

The quote on the left has been a favorite of mine since the day I saw it. When I'm having a rough run, I remind myself that today - I CAN do this. During our half-marathon this last July in Chicago, a spectator was holding a sign with those words and yelling out, "Maybe tomorrow! But NOT TODAY!" She really motivated the two friends I was running with and myself to keep on keepin' on.

MCT Products Used
Sports Sentiments ("Dedication+Motivation..." & "I {heart}")
You Are Here (little runner)
Things I Love ("DETAILS")
Stitched 4 x 6 Journal Dies ("2012")

I'm still getting used to using my handwriting - I'm not a big fan of it. But I know that it adds a personal touch to my pages. And since I'm "Smashing", I keep telling myself that it's not supposed to look perfectly put-together.

If you love the motivational quote on the left page as much as I do, feel free to download this FREE printable I created for my page and use it as you wish. I hope that it can motivate you to keep striving for your own goals!

Thanks for stopping by today! You can head over to Emma's blog to see what some of the other designers have created for today's Scrapping the Little Things.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 26th Release Blog Hop: Makeup Brush Makeover

Welcome to the Release Blog Hop! If you've arrived here from Tracy's blog, you're on the right road. If not, mosey on over to Emma's blog to start from the beginning. Trust me, you DON'T want to miss anything!

If you're like me, you tend to not give yourself enough time to get ready. I always think I need about 15 minutes less than I actually do - must be a gift of mine. When I'm running behind schedule (as in, everyday), it's nice to have the things I need right where I need them.

But I don't like a lot of clutter on my counter tops. That's where this beauty comes in.

This makeup brush holder is simply a glass candlestick (you can find one for $1 at your local thrift or dollar store) glued to a gravy jar. Add a little paint to the candlestick and a cute new 'label' to the jar and voila!

I used Build A Chevy Background for my label and distressed the edges with Walnut Stain Ranger Distress Ink  and my Tim Holtz Distressing Tool. A satin, Tiffany Blue ribbon finishes the look nicely.

Since my gravy jar was taller than the handles of my brushes, I added little wood circles to the bottom of the jar to raise the brushes up.

Confession Time: This brush holder is a brand new addition to my bathroom, but sadly, the gravy jar is not. I've actually stored my brushes in the gravy jar (with the Heinz label still attached) for several weeks. I think The Hubs will be pleasantly surprised to find this new, much more stylish brush holder in the bathroom this morning!

BLOG HOP GIVEAWAY!

For our blog hop giveaway, we will have 2 winners:

• Winner #1 will win a PRIZE PACKAGE from Liz's Paper Loft Boutique AND a $50 gift certificate to the My Creative Time Store! 
• Winner #2 will be our "Guest Designer" for our September Release! 

All you have to do is leave your comments on our blogs! You are NOT required to comment on ALL blogs, but the more you comment on, the better chances you have! GOOD LUCK!

You've got one more stop on this fabulous Blog Hop! Head on over to our talented Guest Designer, Teri's blog for more great projects!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 26th Edition Sneak Peek: Smashin'

Have you "Smashed"? This is my first time. I didn't think I was interested in trying it until I found a bunch of Smash stuff on clearance. And if you know me personally, you know I can hardly resist a clearance!

I started paper crafting as a scrapbooker, but I've always had trouble with the organization part. Don't get me wrong, I'm actually quite organized. It's the organization of the book itself that frustrates me. Do I put like pages together? Should the book be chronological? Can I scrap this if I haven't scrapped that yet? It's a raging battle in my head - so I usually stick to cards.

But I've been wanting to document my running journey and I figured a 'quick and dirty' way to do it would be to Smash. I don't have a ton of photos of our races, but I have at least one from each. Plus I have our bibs (the number you wear when you race) and some other memorabilia. Of course, when I decided to Smash my running stuff I was faced with the dilemma: Where do I start? As The Sound of Music says, the very beginning is a 'very good place to start', so I decided that would do just fine.

On the left page, I've featured the new Photobooth Die from My Creative Time. It's the perfect little photo strip that allows you to use any tiny pictures you have in a fun way.

MCT Products Used
Photobooth Die
3x4 Stitched Journal Die
Journal It! Stamp Set ("Details" card)
Stitched Round Speech Bubble Dies
Fly Away With Me Dies (clouds)
You Are Here Stamp Set (little runner)
Things I Love Stamp Set ("Never give up!", "You got this!")
Stitched Tab Die


I have to admit, it was difficult for me to just 'Smash' everything on the pages. The Hubs said it's still pretty organized; I guess it's just in my nature.

click for larger view

Sneak Peek Giveaway
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We will be giving away the set we are showcasing each day to ONE
lucky winner! Today's winner will be announced tomorrow on Emma's blog. ALL you have to do is leave a comment on each of the Design Team members' blogs! You are NOT required to comment on EVERY SINGLE blog, but the more you comment on, the better chance you have for winning!

For EXTRA entries, you can spread the word about this release on Facebook, Tweet about it OR even Instagram it! #mycreativetime!

GOOD LUCK EVERYONE & let's start spreading the word!
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Don't forget that you can start pre-ordering this release TODAY!!! Head on over to the My Creative Time Shop to start ordering! Be sure to use code AUGUST2013 to save 20% on your entire order through September 6th!

Thanks for stopping by today! Head on over to Emma's blog to see what my DT sisters have up their sleeves for you.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Inspire Me Tuesday: Let's Bake!

One of my favorite hobbies is baking. It's something I picked up in high school and have been doing ever since. I'm a cupcake girl myself - it's so easy to just pipe on some cute frosting, add a little somethin' on top and VOILA! I still have yet to master frosting a cake smooth (how DO they do it?!?!), but that shouldn't last too long: I've signed up for a cake decorating class at my local bake supply shop and they claim that I'll learn how to make buttercream frosting look like fondant - can't wait!

For today's project, I was inspired by photos of a Baking Day I had with my 6-year-old niece, Evelyn.

Evelyn had asked me if we could bake a cake for Grandpa (my Dad) for his birthday this year. Since his birthday is on St. Patrick's Day, she insisted that it was themed accordingly: including lots of green, clovers and Lucky Charms cereal.

She loved my idea of tinting the vanilla cake green, so we went with that. Of course, we had to test the cake before subjecting our family to it, so we made a couple of extra cupcakes for us to try out. *giggle* We had such a fun time baking and decorating together.

I can be a bit of a perfectionist (and by "a bit", I mean that I'm totally OCD), so I'll admit that it was a little difficult to let her go nuts on the decorations (notice all the green sprinkles and Lucky Charms). But since this cake was her idea, I wanted to be sure that it followed her 'vision'.

She wanted the cake to say, "Happy Birthday", so I used a toothpick to draw the letters and she traced them with the brown and yellow frosting (her choice of colors). Everyone agreed that the cake was beautiful and delicious (once you scooped off most of the sprinkles!).

I used the colors from the photos (our aprons, the cake) and the birthday theme of the cake to inspire today's card. This will be for my mother-in-law's birthday next week.

MCT Products Used
Stitched Doily Die
Celebrate Good Times Stamp Set (Cupcake Dies)
Birthday Buddies Stamp Set ("Happy Birthday")
Tab Notes Stamp Set (Banner)

I hand-cut the candle and colored the flame with my Copics.

Thanks for stopping by today. Head on over to Emma's blog to see what the other designer's have been inspired by today!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Designer Challenge: Black & White ONLY!

It's Designer Challenge day over at My Creative Time and my fellow Design Team member, Cassandra, has whipped up QUITE the challenge: use black and white ONLY! We can create whatever our little hearts desire, but it can contain NO COLOR!

I've been wanting to do a card made up of squares for a while now, so I though since I wouldn't be using any color, the squares would add some interest to the design. To get the hot air balloon stamped onto the same layer as the clouds without either one overlapping the other, I first cut out the hot air balloon shape from Fly Away with Me Dies and used just a little adhesive to stick it to my white layer (5" x 5"). Then I stamped my Cartoon Clouds Background onto the white layer (with the hot air balloon shape covering a part of it). When I removed the little cover, that space was left blank - a perfect spot to stamp my hot air balloon (Fly Away with Me Stamp Set). I colored in my balloon with gray Copics (gray is safe to use in this challenge, right?) and then cut my white layer into 25 1" squares.

After pop-dotting all my squares onto my black card base, I glittered the hot air balloon a bit (Star Dust Stickles), popped up some gray and white Cartoon Clouds and called it done.

There are a ton more beautiful black and white projects from the other Design Team members listed on Emma's blog, so be sure to pop on by there.

Thanks for stopping by for a visit today!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Inspire Me Tuesday: It's Take a Long Time...

Hey there!

Today at My Creative Time, we are showcasing projects we've created and what inspired us to create them. I was inspired by this photo of an old pocket watch. I loved the gold color of the metal, roman numerals, and wood background of the photo.

Image via Wikipedia

Typically, pocket watches are seen as masculine, but I wanted to 'girly' it up by using rhinestones, pearls and flowers in my design.

I embossed the clock (All Around Birthday Time) in gold and stamped the sentiment (More of My Favorite Sayings) in brown.

A diamond score pattern on the Kraft card base, paper piercing on the chocolate layer and gold shimmer card stock add more dimension and class to this already sophisticated design.

Thanks for stopping by today. Be sure to head over to Emma's blog to see what the rest of the Design Team was inspired to create.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 3D Wednesday: Dishwasher Magnet

As the "Woman of the House", I take great pride in keeping my home clean and tidy, but feel no shame in asking for some help every now and then. Turns out, I'm NOT Superwoman. 

Who knew?

The job I most often ask for help with is loading and unloading the dishwasher. Why?

1. It's a fairly easy task.
2. The Hubs knows where almost everything gets put away. Almost.
3. It can be done without me having to ask.

Well, #3 isn't always so true. Many a time I will find a single dirty plate in the sink and wonder to myself,

Why was this left here? The dishes in the dishwasher are dirty. This plate should be with its friends in the dishwasher. 

 But I forget that I'm 'in charge' of the dishwasher all day, and I can't expect The Hubs to know that the dishwasher is full of dirty dishes waiting the arrival of more friends. I mean, how is he supposed to know that the dishes are dirty? It's not like there's a way to find that kind of classified information out! (Ladies, I know that WE know there is a way. *cough* open the dishwasher and check *cough* But can we really expect the men in our lives to know that secret? *giggle*)

Since I'm always looking for ways to making life easier (on both of us), I created this super simple magnet that we (*cough* I *cough*) can flip around on the dishwasher so we'll always know what state of cleanliness our dishes are in.

After designing and printing the graphic on my computer, I simply cut it out using the Stitched 3x4 Journal Die. To give it some extra weight, I also cut out the die in chipboard and adhered the graphic layer to it.

Pro tip: If you don't have chipboard laying around, a cereal box or backside of a paper pad will do fine!

I adhered a couple of magnets to the back and VOILA! It's ready for its kitchen debut!

If you're thinking to yourself, Wow! This is a great idea! I wish I had one just like it!, you're in luck. You can click here for a free download of the graphic file and cut it out for yourself at home!

Thanks for stopping by today. You can see the other designers' 3D projects on Emma's blog.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 25th Release Blog Hop: 13.1

Welcome to the 25th Release Blog Hop! If you've hopped here from Tracy's blog, you're on the right track! If not, mosey on over to Emma's blog and you can start this Hop from the beginning.

Today I'm showcasing the new set Treasured Moments on a card I've made for my BFF, Stephanie. This Sunday, she and I (along with my husband) will be running in our very first Half Marathon. I'm so excited to be 'earning' my 13.1 sticker for the back of my car!!! *giggle*

I haven't been running for too long, but Stephanie is a very new runner, and I know she's nervous about the Big Day. So I made her this card (with a photo from her first official 5K) to remind her how awesome she is and how much I believe in her.

MCT Products Used
Stitched Round Speech Bubble Dies
Stitched 4 x 6 Journal Dies (numbers)
Type Calendar Stamp Set (July 21)
Treasured Moments Stamp Set ("I have faith in you!")

***BLOG HOP GIVEWAY ALERT***

For our Blog Hop giveaway, there will be 2 winners chosen from ALL the comments combined!  Both winners will win a $25 Gift Certificate to the My Creative Time Online Store!  All you have to do is leave a comment here along with the rest of the design team's blogs AND also leave a way for us to contact you! Emma will use random.org to pick the lucky winners!  Leave a comment on all blogs in this Hop for more chances to win! The deadline is Saturday, July 20th at 11:59pm! Emma will announce the winners on her blog on Monday, July 22nd!  EASY PEASY!!! GOOD LUCK!

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The Hop doesn't stop here - you've got one more blog! Check out what our Guest Designer, Jessica, has in store for you on her blog.

Thanks for stopping by today!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

P.S. If you happen to be in the downtown Chicago area this Sunday and see Stephanie and me running (we'll be wearing our Hope Water Project jerseys - just like in the photo above), be sure to shout out some love to us. We can use all the motivation we can get!

MCT 25th Edition Sneak Peek: Feelin' Hexy

Hey, hey! It's Day 4 of My Creative Time sneak peeks (and pre-order). Today I'm featuring a 'special order' Card for a Cause that I made for a friend.

The design and layout of this card is pretty simple, but the dimension and patterns give it pizzazz. I was asked to not put any sentiments on the 'special order' cards so that they could be used for any occasion.

*****Sneak Peek Giveaway Time!*****

Okay, this time around we are doing something DIFFERENT! Since you ALL have seen this release in its entirety, we've decided to play a FUN game!  First of all, let me tell you what you will win! ONE LUCKY person will win ALL of this!

Prize Package Includes:

• D-Ring 12" x 12" album - Black Core kit
• (500) 3" x 4" Journaling cards
• (40) Bi-fold journaling cards 
• (4) 4" x 6" First page cards
• (4) 3" x 4" First page cards
• (4) 4" x 6" Last page cards
• (4) 3" x 4" Last page cards
• (60) 4" x 6" Title cards 
• (60) 12" x 12" Photo pocket pages
• (12) 13" x 3" Project Life dividers
• 14 White divider labels

We will ALSO have a 2nd prize winner who will win a $50 certificate to the My Creative Time store!

How do you qualify to win either of the two fabulous prizes? Let's play "I Spy"!

If you can "spy" one old or new My Creative Time product and tell us about it in the comments, you will be eligible to win one of these great prizes!

 ***SPREAD THE WORD TO THE WORLD ON Facebook, Instagram it (#mycreativetime) or even tweet about it. Then let us know on the MCT Facebook page.

GOOD LUCK!

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Be sure to check out what the other designers have in store for you at Emma's blog today. And remember that you can reserve your own Card for a Cause on my training blog (and just catch up on how I'm doing in my journey to 26.2 miles).

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 25th Edition Sneak Peek: The Best is Yet to Come

Welcome to the second day of Sneak Peeks for the NEW RELEASE! Yesterday's projects were FABULOUS, right?

Don't forget while you're hopping from blog to blog that you can PRE-ORDER this ENTIRE release NOW!!! Awesome-sauce!

As promised yesterday, I have another special card to share today. This beautiful, sophisticated card needs a new home - could it be yours? This is another Card for a Cause (click here to learn about Cards for a Cause and how YOU can support Hope Water Project by receiving this one-of-a-kind greeting card).

The layers, embossing, beautiful patterns and lace ribbon give so much elegance to this card, while the pearl, rhinestone and studded centerpiece really make it a stunner. This card is perfect for a wedding, new baby, new job, graduation, or ANY milestone!

*****Sneak Peek Giveaway Time!*****

Okay, this time around we are doing something DIFFERENT! Since you ALL have seen this release in its entirety, we've decided to play a FUN game!  First of all, let me tell you what you will win! ONE LUCKY person will win ALL of this!

Prize Package Includes:

• D-Ring 12" x 12" album - Black Core kit
• (500) 3" x 4" Journaling cards
• (40) Bi-fold journaling cards 
• (4) 4" x 6" First page cards
• (4) 3" x 4" First page cards
• (4) 4" x 6" Last page cards
• (4) 3" x 4" Last page cards
• (60) 4" x 6" Title cards 
• (60) 12" x 12" Photo pocket pages
• (12) 13" x 3" Project Life dividers
• 14 White divider labels

We will ALSO have a 2nd prize winner who will win a $50 certificate to the My Creative Time store!

How do you qualify to win either of the two fabulous prizes? Let's play "I Spy"!

If you can "spy" one old or new My Creative Time product and tell us about it in the comments, you will be eligible to win one of these great prizes!

 ***SPREAD THE WORD TO THE WORLD ON Facebook, Instagram it (#mycreativetime) or even tweet about it. Then let us know on the MCT Facebook page.

GOOD LUCK!

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Thank you so much for stopping by to see my project today. You can see what the other designers have up their sleeves on Emma's blog. And remember that YOU can own this "The Best is Yet to Come" card (and help provide clean water for people in need). Click here for more information.

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT 25th Edition Sneak Peek: Think Green

Hey there! How awesome is it that you not only get to see FABULOUS sneak peeks from the MCT Design Team, but you can see the WHOLE release (and pre-order it) at the same time?!?!?! Ahhh!!!! So exciting.

Today (and throughout Sneaks) I have a very special card to share. This card is not only super cute, but it's up for grabs! Yep! You read that right. This is a Card for a Cause (click here to learn about Cards for a Cause and how YOU can own this one-of-a-kind greeting card).

This 5.25" square card is perfect for an earth-lovin', tree-huggin' friend for ANY occasion! If you've seen other projects of mine, you know that I often have a clean and simple style. But what I really love is piling a BUNCH of stuff on! *giggle*

The layering, patterned papers, paper piercing and LOADS of accessories give this card so much interest and make it a lot of fun.

The sun was made with two different sized circle punches and a large star punch (punched twice and layered to make the sun's rays). The little snail is a part of the grassy patterned paper (isn't he adorable?) and the earth and "think green!" thought bubble are dimensional stickers from a Recollections pack.

*****Sneak Peek Giveaway Time!*****

Okay, this time around we are doing something DIFFERENT! Since you ALL have seen this release in its entirety, we've decided to play a FUN game!  First of all, let me tell you what you will win! ONE LUCKY person will win ALL of this!

Prize Package Includes:

• D-Ring 12" x 12" album - Black Core kit
• (500) 3" x 4" Journaling cards
• (40) Bi-fold journaling cards 
• (4) 4" x 6" First page cards
• (4) 3" x 4" First page cards
• (4) 4" x 6" Last page cards
• (4) 3" x 4" Last page cards
• (60) 4" x 6" Title cards 
• (60) 12" x 12" Photo pocket pages
• (12) 13" x 3" Project Life dividers
• 14 White divider labels

We will ALSO have a 2nd prize winner who will win a $50 certificate to the My Creative Time store!

How do you qualify to win either of the two fabulous prizes? Let's play "I Spy"!

If you can "spy" one old or new My Creative Time product and tell us about it in the comments, you will be eligible to win one of these great prizes!

 ***SPREAD THE WORD TO THE WORLD ON Facebook, Instagram it (#mycreativetime) or even tweet about it. Then let us know on the MCT Facebook page.

GOOD LUCK!

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Thanks so much for stopping by today! Be sure to see what the other designers have in store for you at Emma's blog. And don't forget that YOU can own this Think Green card (and support a worthy cause). Click here for more information!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica

MCT Designer Challenge: Birdie Birthday BLING!

This Saturday is going to be a pretty exciting fun-packed day! First The Hubs and I will start out with a 6-mile training run with our team and then we'll head out to help set-up for and celebrate our oldest nephew's graduation party. It's a double-whammy celebration because it's also my Aunt/Godmother's birthday! 

Growing up, my nickname has always been "Ronnie-bird". It was my Grandmother's nickname (whom I unfortunately didn't get to meet) and was passed down to me. My Aunt Chris is one of many who always calls me this, so I thought a little birdie on her birthday card was appropriate.

Emma's challenge for today is to use BLING! It's easy to see the rhinestones I've added to my card, but the photo doesn't show the glitter very well. I used Star Dust Stickles to glitter the music notes, leaves and birdie and also to dot the blue strip on the right side.

The Woodgrain embossing folder (Stampin' Up!) gives this card a nature feel, but using it on white card stock keeps the design crisp. I just love merging two styles! To add a bit more 'nature', I tied some hemp twine (from Liz's Paper Loft Boutique) around the green banner layer.

MCT Products Used
It's All About You Stamp Set (sentiment)
Birthday Buddies Stamp Set (image)

Thanks for stopping by today. Be sure to check out the rest of the design team's fabulous projects on Emma's blog!

I hope you were inspired!

- Veronica