Stamped cards from 2019 coming to inspire you.

Here are the cards that the Seniors made in their classes for 2019 so far. My Seniors have been coming for about 10 years at least.  We've lost 2 seniors over the years.  Doris Biesecker was our last to depart and we do miss her.   She had cancer that took her too soon.     Recently another senior , Carolyn moved closer to her son.    They have been so loyal all these years and we do as much laughing as stamping.  It's a pleasure to have them once a month.

April 2017 class...relax at beach

April 9, 2017 class .
I love this set with the ladies.

 

 the flower

Has been curled to be raised.  Beads 

For the center.

September 2016 card class

Where does time go.  Hard to believe Fall is here again.
the years just fly by before you see another around the corner.

Probably can't tell but the bottom of this mostly

 white card was run thru embossing folder.

Time away from the blog

For anyone who follows my blog, I've been away for a bit plus a bit longer.

 Mama is 91.5 and up until now very healthy, driving, independent and in her home since 1946 when she came to this country from Cuba.

   6/30/14 she had diarrhea which upset her and she continued to have it daily for over a week and then off an on for next 2 weeks.  During those three weeks I contacted her family doctor of 40 years because she was also not eating, drinking, confused, wobbly, sleepy, anxious, aggitated, moody and the list goes on.    At one point her doctor said he was not worried about the diarrhea.  Then I was concerned that she might be dehydrated and he said he was not concerned.    With all the mood swings and she was having trouble getting meds down, he chose to put her on Prozac in addition to her Ativan which I was adjusting due to how she was reacting.

Finally due to some breathing problems, the cardiologist suggested we go to Prime Care (urgent care) to be sure her lungs were clear.  They discovered UTI 2 days after her doctor had done lab work.      Prime Care sent us home with meds for the UTI which he said can be so dangerous in an older adult.    The next day they called to check on her and suggested we go to hospital to be sure not in her blood stream as they could not do blood cultures in their office.

  7/19/14 they admitted Mama and said her sodium level was very low and we never heard about the blood culture.

7/23/14 the hospital was going to release Mama to our care to go home after which time they had not let her get on the potty chair alone and she had not walked.    I explained to the social worker that she lives alone and how would we handle all of this and could they please send her to rehab for a bit.    She said we would just have to deal with it.    Thank goodness for friends.  My friend Lora said that she felt sure the insurance would pay for rehab.  I called back and left a message for the social worker that I heard Ins. would help cover that and let me know what's next.  The next morning she came in with 3 choices, go look at them and let me know which one and she walked out.    Needless to say I had a moment of undue stress due to that gal.

7/24/14 they moved Mama to Rehab behind the hospital, The Oaks.    She was good and getting better but after about 5 days, she got a cough and I got nervous.  Yep, turned into Broncitis and she was put on oxygen for about 5 days.    She can get sick very easily.

I've been under such stress that I've been living in the bathroom and losing weight.  The guilt over not doing something in those first 3 weeks will always haunt me.

In addition to all that Mama was experiencing at home it just got worse at rehab.  She could not hold a fork, answer a phone, dial a phone number, write her name , not eating or drinking again and she prayed to die for about 4 days and was asking for hospice.   She was giving up and I did go talk to Hospice to help me prepare.    I did find out they have grief counseling that I so need as you do not need to wait til that day to avail of their services.

8/14/14, Mama has turned the corner and a new person.   Who would have thought such a change could happen.       Going home still seemed not the best idea due to the fact that she would still need a bit of assistance as she is almost back to normal but tired and needs help with meals, bathing, etc.    We have opted for Independent Living which will resolve the meals and give her some people to be around.  We think that will help her depression, give us some peace of mind.  We'll go over and help with baths til she gets stronger.    She's sad over leaving her house and neighborhood.  She has outlived everyone and she likes her new neighbors but it's time for a change and some fun.

I've been just as sick over this decision as well due to tight finances, the move, change, etc.    I'm also tired from hardly sleeping myself, living in the bathroom and my own set of nerves.

The new beginning starts at Independent Living next week.   Mama very nervous over it all.  Wanted to let her go home first, after she had seen the new place but  we've been told by everyone that is not a good idea.  Best to move her from rehab.

She has a 3 month lease to decide.  I think while it will be a squeeze, her quality of life will be really better as she had 0 to do at home and if she gives up driving, she's trapped.    Wish my one sister was on board with all of this and try to see a better future for her.

Now Don might be getting sick.  He has RA and now needs a hip replacement.

At my age, I've discovered I can only work on one problem at a time and I've been going non stop since 6/30/14 so forgive me if my blog activities are on hold for a bit.    Keep you posted when I'm back to stamping and sewing.

Please keep us in your thoughts.  For those who have sent Mama a card, I thank you very much.

June 2014 class projects

  Hard to believe we're almost at the 1/2 year mark.  The older you get the quicker times passes you by.   Are you too busy to stamp these day.    If you think it's hard to gather up all the supplies to make a card, then you might want to consider Stampin Up's Paper Pumpkin.  It ships to you monthly with all the supplies to make the projects they have provided for you.    Ask me about it or check it out on line. 
 

 June 2014 projects were fun.   If you just like coming to class and/or  stamping with others            then you might enjoy these projects.     Look how easy these cards are to do.

Sorry that Calypso Coral is no longer available.  Such a pretty color and this is the last of my stash.  Time to find another use for that Pansy Punch you may have purchased.    Stay tuned for at least one more card using your punch. 

 

If you are interested in a class to make these projects, please let me know.  I like to have at least 3 people for a class.    Feel free to contact me to see if I have any openings in my regular monthly classes.  Class is normally around 2.5 hr. depending on the number in class as it's hands on and I'll provide everything needed for $15 per person.      Give me a call, 764-3546.

If you noticed, I also changed the tag color in the card above.  White was just too bold for the paper peaking thru the Pansy punch.

 

Well I'm thinking about the butterfly.  Often things look different in photo.  Wonder if the butterfly should be in black.  We'll see.  Comments welcome. 

 

As for the Starburst card with 3 pansies, lesson learned.  Don't try to put in the center flower first thinking it's the center..... DUH.  Glue dots don't come up.  So end flowers first and then the center flower.  Also the flowers will now be sponged around the edges. 

While I love the softness of the butterfly in white, I'm considering if I should try it in black.  We'll see.    
 
 
 
Yep,  I discovered not wise to put the center flower in what you thins

May 2014 class projects

Here are the class projects for May 2014.  If you need more information about them, let me know.  I'll have the supply list finished this week.  Drop me a line, jlowder1@bellsouth.net

If you would like a Stampin Up catalog, please let me know.  The cost is $5.  I already have one on order for my Seniors club as well as current stamp club.  

See what Stampin Up has to offer

I will have to say that in the years that I attended the Stampin Up conventions, I did have a great time.  They are over the top on presentation and what they do for their demonstrators.    I started with Stampin Up August 2001.  Hard to believe it's been that long.

Was just watching a video of the past convention and thinking about past fun.

They are posting even more things for the non demonstrator to check out.  http://www.stampinup.com/home/

Be sure to check out the blog attached.  It offers weekly Stampin Up deals.  They you can place your order at my site. http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/joanlowder/

                        See Shop:  http://www.stampinup.com/ECWeb/default.aspx

If you ever see a Stampin Up special to join the team, think about it as it's usually a good deal for what you get and in addition you'll get a monthly magazine full of ideas.

Call me if you have questions, Joan Lowder, 336-764-3546 or send me an email, jlowder1@bellsouth.net

Don't forget that I also have a special this month.  See Jan cards for special.

Oct class is all about Christmas

Sorry I'm so late this month.  Here are the projects for the Oct. 2013 class.  Of course I'm still  tweaking them and cutting for class.   
At this point I only have 3 classes this month.   My classes this month are full.
 If interested, I need 3 people for a class and I can possibly throw together another Oct. class.   Class is normally 2.5 hr. and I'll provide everything you need.  Class is $15.  Call me, Joan 764-3546.

Next class will be in Dec.

Inside of Country card

  Still tweaking this one.   Maybe we'll play in class.

September 2013 afternoon stamp class

These are the projects for the Sept. 2013 stamp class.  3 cards.  Shown are some different options.   Class is 1-3:30 pm, hands on.  Class is Monday, 9/9/13, $15.  I'll provide everything needed unless you prefer something other than glue sticks.  Where warranted, I will provide alternate adhesive.  

I've had a last minute cancellation for Monday's class.  1 seat open.  If interested, please call Joan Lowder, 336-764-3546. 

Sadly my camera not taking good pictures in terms of color.  This is on Kraft cardstock.

I love embossing folders.  Great backgrounds.  Here is an option in the stars.

May 2013 Class projects

May 2013 Class projects:   

My creations based on someone else's design and credit will be applied when I post the supply list later.  I liked them, hope you do.  The tie card was to be a June card but I didn't quite get the other one ready for May.   I think you can make either of the flower cards into a Mother's Day if you need to.  Tie card could be Father's Day.  

Where is the year going.  It's hard to believe that it's time for new catalogs already.  Here it is May almost and soon 1/2 of the year will be gone.  Is it my age but time is flying by.... when I'm having fun. 

Want to have some fun, consider calling for a seat in the May class.  Cost is $15 for 2.5 hr. of girl time and I'll supply everything you will need.  If you don't like glue sticks, bring your own adhesive and be sure it's labeled.  I can seat up to 8 people for a class.  Call for a seat 336-764-3546.   Classes: http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/joanlowder/events   I will be adding a morning class so check back for that date.

If you want a new catalog, please let me know as they are arriving this week.  $5 for past customers. 

Say Goodbye to your favorites. The retiring Stampin Up Lists are here

It's that time of year where Stampin Up retires many items in preparation for the new catalog that takes effect in June, 2013.  http://www.stampinup.com/home/  will allow you to view the retiring list of stamp sets, colors, etc.  There is also an accessory list.    I would encourage you to mark your catalog with the retiring items.    There's something for everyone.

You can place your orders directly on line by going to my Stampin Up website and they will ship directly to your home.  I'll be place a May order if you are interested in that.    You can also see the retiring lists here, at the bottom of the page.  http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/joanlowder/

Keep in mind that retired items, especially in accessories, are while supplies last.    Once the items are gone, that's it. 

Remember Mother's Day is around the corner and perhaps your mom would like some of the retiring items. 

Call me if you have any questions.  Joan Lowder  336-764-3546

April 2013 Stamp Class Projects

I'm ready for Spring, are you. Hope you have a wonderful Easter Weekend.

Are you coming to my place for stamp class this month.  Below are the projects for this month.  One card of each.  Class is $15 and I'll supply everything.  It's around 2.5 hr. and I think you'll have fun.  Consider bringing a friend. 

Due some doctors appts. I had to move a morning class.   I still have seats for the afternoon class Monday 4/8, 1 pm;  Tuesday am class, 4/9 at 9:30 am.  and if that doesn't work I can work you in with the Club class which is Wed. night, 4/3, 6:15 as I don't think those gals would mind. 

  If you are interested in the Wed. class, I need to know by Sunday morning, 3/31/13. 

If you are interested in the morning or afternoon class the following week, I need to know by 4/5/13.  Of course always feel free to call at the last minute as I may have enough cut or someone may have cancelled. 

 I'll have a selection of yarns, ribbons, for the basket - bucket card.    The girl with the umbrella is a current hostess set in back of the Spring Mini.    They all say Spring to me. 

Paper Pumpkin arrives at your door monthly...... it's a monthly kit

Make life easy in this busy world.  Many gals were thrilled with the cute card we did in March class that actually came from the SAB mini catalog,  peel, stick, little stamping and viola, a very pretty quick card.   

Stampin Up is expanding on this idea and thought you might be interested in an on going Kit idea such as this but with more goodies. www.mypaperpumpkin.com  Looks like they are even throwing in a small gift with the first order.  I'm still checking into it as well but hope you'll check it out.   You can try the kit for a month and see what you think.....  $19.95.   There is also a Q/A section on site above.   If you have questions, please ask me or call Stampin Up at 1-800-Stampinup  

There is a Trial kit that can be ordered thru me or on line.  That kit is #132600.     To sign up for the monthly kit, you will need to sign up yourself on line and it will ship directly to your home. 

Call me if you need more help.  Joan Lowder, 336-764-3546

Makes me remember when I was a teenager, I signed up for a monthly craft club and I got goodies every month.  Do you know of a grandchild who might like a monthly surprise. I was taught early on that it's only polite to send a thank you card.


                     I loved the surprises in the box.... like Christmas once a month.  
                        It's not to late to get the March kit, no committment.     

Try Me—You'll Like MeTry Me—You'll Like Me..................Available in March

Afraid of commitment? Too much pun'kin for you to handle? You can try me and I'll visit just once. (But I know you'll want me to come back every month.)

• I'm $16.95 (plus shipping).

• I've got all the stamps, ink, paper, and accessories to create beautiful projects.

• I'm all cut, measured, and ready—with instructions included. (Don't worry, I'm easy.)

Desperate measures in stampin

From time to time I end up with projects that were demo'd that used the real thing.... Chocolate.  Often desperate times call for desperate measures..... no chocolate in the house.  Ah ha moment brings back the memory of treats and therefore I took a picture to share before I broke into the bag and ate the chocolate.
Gosh they were good and hit the spot. 

March 2013 Stampin Class at Joan Lowder's

I'm still tweaking the colors for the class this month but here are the projects. 3 cards and a little St. Patty's treat.   I think that the butterfly card will be in different colors.  As for the tulip card at bottom, I'm leaning more toward the pink color.    More details to follow as well as supply list after last class.   

If you are interested in a class this month, it is $15 for class, 2.5 hr. and I'll supply everything.  Now if you have this butterfly punch and care to share please bring it along but be sure your name is on it. 

I do use glue sticks and will provide other adhesives as needed.    I have a seat open for the Monday 3/11 class at 1 pm.  There are a few seats left open for the Wed. am class 9:30 .  Please call me by Sat. 3/9 if you are interested in a seat in one of the classes.  Joan Lowder  336-764-3546. 

For sure I think this card with butterflies will change to more spring colors. 

February Stamp class projects & Supply List

Joan Lowder's February 2013 class projects & supply list below.. 

Lovely Lilacs is a sign of spring

Sets: Heaven Scent (retired); All I have Seen (envelope) retired; butterfly from Bloomin Marvelous (2013 SAB)

Cardstock: Wisteria Wonder (2011-2013 in color), W. White

Ink: Wisteria Wonder, Always Artichoke, Concord Crush (Retired), Pretty in Pink

Accessories: Stampin Dimensionals, daubers, snips, Big Shot, Embossing Folder “Woodgrain”,
Instructions:  Cut Wisteria Wonder down to 4 x 5 ¼” and run thru the Big Shot with Woodgrain embossing folder.

Stamp Words on Scraps of W. White in Concord Crush or Artichoke. Your preference. Fussy cut around the words. You’ll only pop dot the back of the right side.

Lilac stack: White 1 ¾ x 3 ¼”. Layered on top of Wisteria Wonder 2 x 3 ½”, layered on top of W. White cut 2 ¼ x 3 ¾” . (personally, I’d cut the white piece for lilac out of the back piece and save paper)

On white scraps I stamped the butterfly from Bloomin Marvelous in Pretty in pink, fussy cut out.

Sturdy Oak Tree

Sets: Lovely as a Tree, 3 little words

Cardstock: Card is River Rock. Front is Soft Suede, W.White for the tree, white scraps for words.

Ink: Early Expresso, Crumb Cake, River Rock

Accessories: Paper snips, Embossing folder “Woodgrain”, Big Shot, yarn or ribbon, daubers, stampin Dimensionals, Tombow glue to hold ribbon in place

Instructions:  Cut the Soft Suede 4 x 5 ¼”; Cut the white for the tree 2 ¼ x 2 ½:; River Rock 2 ½ x 2 ¾”
Stamp the tree in E.Expresso on White with 2 ½, horizontal. Stamp the words in E. Expresso and cut out with a punch or fussy cut with snips.

Daub around the edge of the white w/E. Expresso. Lightly dust the edges of the white with the tree as well as the words with Crumb Cake . Lightly daub River Rock over the tree if you want a bit of color.

Bloomin Marvelous

Set: Bloomin Marvelous (2013 SAB), Sincere Salutations, Best Yet (retired) , For words in sq. scallop I liked : Natural Beauty, Sage Advice (both retired)

Cardstock: W.White on a Rich Razzleberry card.

Ink: Rich Razzleberry, Wild Wasabi, Black

Accessories: Stampin Dimensionals, Reinstones or pearls, Square Scallop Punch, snips, Tombow Glue just in case.

Instructions:
2 pcs. Of W. white (for front and inside), 4 x 5 ¼”
Stamp words on W.White , about 2 x 10” & punch out with Square Scallop Punch out of works,, set aside
You’ll have enough what left over to stamp a quote for front of card.
Stamp 4 flowers in Rich Razzleberry on white scraps (about 1 x 5 inches) and cut out
Cut: Wild Wasabi, 3 pcs 1 1/2"” x 1 1/2" pcs to back the sq. scallops pieces with words.
Apply something to center of flowers if you wish.

October 2012 Stampin Up Class projects

Sincere thanks to everyone who came to class in 2012 and I hope to see you in 2013. 

We made what I call an ink smudge card with leaves and 2 Triple Time stamping cards.  Below are just some of the ones I had on display.  Supply is a little general as you can see some variations.   You should be able to click on any photo and enlarge it. 

Triple TIme Stamping



Triple Time Stamping
Triple Time Stamping: in general              Stamp sets: any of your choosing

Cardstock: Card can be the layer for front of card or use white or vanilla and use colored layers on front. Meaning you’d have 6 layers on the front of a card. I prefer to save a bit and use 5 layers onto the front of a card.

Cardstock Layers: Stamp piece sizes 5 ¼ x 4” 4 ¼” x 3” 3 ¼” x 2”

Lightly adhere all three layers before stamping and be sure to assemble back in same order and direction.

Mat sizes: 1: Folded card 2: 3 ¼ x 4 ½” 3: 2 ¼” x 3 ½” Take note, you can cut out #3 mat from center of #2 mat. Saves weight for mailing as well as cardstock.

Ink: your choice

#1: Fall Leaves on V.Vanilla on Old Olive

Sets: Autumn Leaf Prints (R); All Season’s Wreath (R)

I stamped all colors but would look just as nice in one color.

Ink: Early Expresso, So Saffron, Tangerine Tango, Old Olive, Crumb Cake

Accessories: adhesive, Twine, yarn or ribbon;



Ink Smudge card with Lucky Limeade

Falling Leaves


Stamp Sets used: Thoroughly Thankful (R) for words on front; French Foilage for the leaves;

Cardstock: Very Vanilla card with front cover of Chocolate chip (with inside cut out). V.Vanilla 5.5 x 8.5 and fold in half. Chocolate Chip 4 ¼ x 5 ½” with inside cut out at 3.5 make a vertical cut, flip around and do the same at the other side and then at about 7/8” cut the ends. Now you can use the donut hole for another project. You’ll also need a piece of V. Vanilla 5 ¼ x 4” for the front of the card.

Ink: Chocolate Chip, Cajun Craze

Using some cardstock scraps, cut a piece the same size as the front of your card or the piece you plan to use, in this case 5 ¼ x 4”. Then tear or cut out any shape you wish from the middle . This is your template. Place the template over the front of your cardstock and drag down with an ink pad.

Triple Time Stamping

Serene Sunflower

Triple Time Stamping