Who doesn't love birthdays?

Happy birthday! Dreaded words? Or do you appreciate the heartfelt wish, because for one day everyone celebrates you and reminds you that they are happy that you are in their life?

Even though the years are flying by faster than seems possible, I still love to celebrate my birthday. And I especially enjoy reminding my family and friends how much I love and celebrate them on their birthdays. And what better way to do that with a handmade card! Sending a card with a happy thought to let someone know how much we appreciate them is something we just don't do enough of these days. But I know how excited I get when there is a piece of mail that isn't a bill, or credit card offer, or some other item addressed to "resident". It's even better when it's a card shaped piece addressed just to me!

I know you feel the same way when someone takes the time to actually send you a card to celebrate a special occasion, right? So why not make someone's day and make a commitment to send more birthday cards. The Amazing Birthdays stamp set makes it easy to make your own handstamped greetings.  

 

This lovely little set has so many possibilities. You can make something quick (or a dozen to have on hand or give as a gift). 

 

Or you can design something really special tailored just for your special loved one.

 

You can also use the designs to create party favors treat bags, gift tags, and party decor.  

 

 

So many uses, so easy to get carried away with. 

 

Why not make and send a card today?

Who knows what it will lead to...happy friends, reconnecting with distant family, maybe even a card in return. You can find Amazing Birthdays at www.clothpaperstring.stampinup.net.

Back to School!

I can't believe that it is already time to go back to school! This summer has breezed by, and it seems I have been focused on back to school since before school let out, so I feel a little like I missed it all together.  

Of all the preparations, the kids are most excited about learning who their new teachers will be. And of all the jobs out there, teachers have the toughest and most important. Welcoming them back to a brand new year is a treat I enjoy giving them, a little thanks in advance for all that is ahead. 

My kids are older and at the age where they have not one, but many teachers during the week, so welcome back gifts have to be small, portable, and affordable. This year I decided to send in some pens - you can never have enough, right?  

But they couldn't be plain pens. They needed a little pizazz. I found inspiration on Pinterest (where else?), and adapted a post by stampedblessings.com.  

I started with a 6 x 3 1/2 inch piece of decorative paper. 

Score it along the long edge at 1 1/2" and 3". Use a circle punch to make a half circle cut at the top of the middle section. 

Apply adhesive along the right side of the 1/2 inch flap and bottom edge. And fold the left 1 1/2" section to meet the edge of the folded 1/2 inch section and seal. The pouch is finished and ready for decoration. Here are my pouches with their decorations. 

Here they are all together. My kids can't wait to share these treats with their teachers.

I hope everyone has a great back to school season.