G is for GREAT deal!

I have been a HUGE fan of Jenn Ski for awhile and was excited when she came out with her Actopus to Zelephant Animal line (screams summer - pool, exploring, zoo - with a toddler). I've been stalking her etsy site for some time, debating on whether to splurge on some items or not. When I was at Michaels the other weekend, I found that line at the store! And you know what?!? If you go online to Michaels.com and sign up for their newsletter, you get a 50% off coupon on regular priced items. Her line is regular priced! So, I got the pack of Alphabet cards (so incredibly cute) for a whopping $3.56. What a steal!

The animal cards have an adorable illustration by Jenn on the front and details of each animal printed on the back. Cute and educational - what more could a mom want! I'm sold and will be getting more items there to scrap this summer. As for her etsy shop, I will be saving up to purchase that keepsake piece for my daughter. She also has a vinyl etsy shop of her artwork and a vintage goods etsy shop. Happy Shopping!

What is your best item you found for a steal?

(images courtesy of Jenn Ski Etsy and K & Company via Michaels)

I AM A PAPER ADDICT...I AM A PAPER ADDICT...I AM A PAPER ADDICT...

I admit it...I.am.a.paper.addict. I wonder if there is a 12-step program out there for me. Here are some pics of some fabulous papers I scored this weekend from American Crafts, Autumn Leaves, Basic Grey, Crate Paper, and Luxe Designs (these were in addition to the awesome DCWV Green Stack I picked up). Oh paper heaven! Be sure to peruse their site links for sooo many inspirations and fun ideas.

I have my hands full with enough paper for a million projects...now to work on those two extras days per week! I used the first three papers for my daughter's second birthday party decorations - folded paper cranes out of the two-sided papers and made other decos with them as well...it was a bird/owl theme - WHO's TWO? It turned out better than expected. The two Basic Grey papers I used were from Urban Prairie. Enjoy the eye candy!

Loving these Ads by Cosmo Cricket

You all know Cosmo Cricket is one of my favorite companies (hello Christmas cards). Check out this line of ads they have on their site. LOVE 'EM! I'm a sucker for clever copywriting and wordsmithing as well as a beautiful composition of their award-winning (IMHO) papers...loving these...

pssst...did you hear their COGSMO FABRIC collection is coming soon?!?! Yes, I did say F.A.B.R.I.C...I cannot wait!

(images courtesy of Cosmo Cricket)

Digging the GREEN STACK by DCWV Inc.

So, today I was treated to an afternoon of shopping for my birthday with one of my very best friends, Laurie - we hit quite a few craft and paper stores (sigh)...and I found WAY too much stuff I loved. Projects are always in my head 24/7 - I just wish I had enough time to get to them all - I seriously need another two days in a week and believe you me, I would make use of every minute! One at a time...one at a time...anyway, I found this great paper pack from DCWV Inc. (Die Cuts with a View) that I need to share with you. The Green Stack consists of 48 sheets of 70% recycled paper...yes, my friends, it is truly an eco-conscious collection AND the prints/patterns are UBER-AWESOME. I've posted the front of the paper stack pack as well as the stack contents...I can hardly wait to do some summer layouts of our activities with Gabrielle. The only thing I have left to do is pick up an embellishments package (I've posted that too) - and I'm off to dream of my adorable layouts that will be created. To finish off the post, I've included some layout samples from the DCWV website - be sure to peruse their website - they have lots of goodies. Sign up to receive their emails to be notified of new product and also coupons plus you are entered to win a monthly drawing of $50 of product! Not bad!!!

(images courtesy of Die Cuts with a View)