Patriotic bee

This is busier than I usually like - but probably ok for a 4th of July celebration!  I added stickles and a gold metallic ink to include some sparkle - they do not seem to show on the screen.  The red and white dots are a piece of Recollections tape - I am really liking to use tape for some of these small accents - I can add the accent without adding bulk.
Sketch:  http://sparklensprinklecreativechallenges.blogspot.com.au/
Patriotic:  http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
Red, white and blue:  http://delightfulsketches.blogspot.com/

Girl Friends with Flowers

These Art Impressions Girl Friend stamps are adorable - and So popular in my age group LOL!  They are colored with Prismas, and surrounded with dots, stripes, and Petaloo flowers.  I prefer to not endorse adult beverages, but this caption just went with the image!
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Flowers:  http://artimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/
Stripes:  http://artimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/
Flowers:  http://carabbiemomentsofcraft.blogspot.co.uk/
Summer Blooms:   http://sirstampalotchallenge.blogspot.com/

Fluffles in the garden

Here is Fluffles in the garden, ready to present a bouquet.  The flowers are colored with gel pens. 
DP- Recollections; corners - Spellbinders;  metal brads - Craft Essentials.
Sketch:  http://sundaysketchandstamp.blogspot.com/
Garden:  http://www.craftyourpassionchallenges.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/
Pastels:  http://kaboodledoodles.blogspot.com/
Tic Tac Toe (die: cuts, emboss, metal):  http://incywincydesigns.blogspot.com/

/

A friend has asked for several cards with cats, and my deadline is approaching!  This is an image I have had in my "colored stash" for a while.  I think she is pretty cute and cuddly - and right for "Everybody wants to be a cat".  The dp is Paper Studio, flowers are Petaloo.  For mixed media I used the flowers and chalk on the dry embossing (You folder by CB - the line that says Fine, Fun, Fantastic).
Sketch:  http://feeling-sketchy.blogspot.com.au/
Wants to be a cat:  http://quirkycrafts.blogspot.com/
cute and cuddly:  http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Mixed media:  http://sugarcreekhollow.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/

Happy Anniverary, Dale & Marilyn

/I

I will finish later - think this is a Mo Manning image.  The dots are Recollections tape.
 (Edit - I had a problem with linking - now I need to catch up.)
Sketch:  http://sweetstopsketches.blogspot.com/
Red, white, blue:   http://perfectsentimentschallenge.blogspot.com/
Red, white, blue:  http://getinkychallenge.blogspot.com/
Red, white,blue:  http://paperplaytime.blogspot.com/  

Vintage Birthday for a Guy

This truck comes from a great Tim Holtz set, the Journey.  The shading is sponged with chalk.  The plaids and button add to the vintage feel.  The plaid DP is from a Karen Foster pad called Gone Fishing,the EF is CB Spots and dots,  and the plaid tape is Recollections.  This will go to a brother in law for his birthday.  I got the picket fence die (Memory Box) from Joan's Gardens.  The circles are cut with Nesties.
 Sketch:  http://adieforasketch.blogspot.de/
Vintage:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/
Masculine, with dots: http://herecometheboysblogchallenge.blogspot.com/
Masculine:  http://artimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/2013/06/challenge-112-masculine-cards-fathers_20.html
Use plaid, dimension, embossing, for a birthday:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/06/this-weeks-challenge_20.html

Lazy Summer

Here is another cute (free) digi from sliekjestamps.  I used:  CB HB folder, some misc plaid DP, paper tape, sheer ribbon, Prismas, a shell charm, distressed edges.  I made tiny whimsical plaid clouds from a Cheery Lynn die that I purchased not long ago from Joan's Gardens.
Sketch #80 :  http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/
Plaid, birthday, embossing, dimension:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/06/this-weeks-challenge_20.html
Summer:  http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/
Summertime fun:  http://digidarlas.blogspot.com/
At the beach:  http://digidarlas.blogspot.com/
Beach : http://marksfinestpapers.blogspot.com/

Pink and frilly

I see so many lovely collage type cards and just cannot seem to achieve the look I would like.  Here, the doily piece is Basic Grey, and I think the pink scraps I used are also BG.  The sentiment is Just Rite.  I added flowers by Petaloo and Ribbon Boutique sheer ribbon.
Sketch:  http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/justrite-friday-challenge/
Doily:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/
Flowers and a bow:  http://totallypapercrafts.blogspot.com/
 Any:  http://pausedreamenjoychallenges.blogspot.co.uk/

Kitty in B&W

Here is another image from sliekjestamps - she has a lot of freebies on her blog.  I used some scraps for the bg, and an EKSuccess border punch.
Masculine:  http://joannasheenchallenge.blogspot.ca/search/label/Challenge%2035
Encouragement: http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://pollycraftchallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/
A sweet kittie:  http://paulaholifieldcrafts.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/albc-something-sweet.html

Is this fun in the sun???

Two pink cards in a row!  Amazing for me!!!  I think this is a fun combo of image, sentiment, and inside verse (Things could be worse - we could be trying on bathing suits.)  Just be careful of your choice of recipient!  This is a rubbernecker image, colored with Prismas and gel pens, with half pearl earrings and rhinestones to embellish the tag. The DP is Paper Studio, and die cuts by Nesties  I added a bit of ribbon for more pizazz.  There are challenges regarding fun in the sun - as the title suggests, that could be a matter of opinion!  She certainly looks skeptical.

Sketch: http://cardsgalorechallenges.blogspot.co.uk/

Sentiment sun, sand:  http://perfectsentimentschallenge.blogspot.com/

Sentiment - summer:  http://audsentimentschallengeblog.blogspot.com/

Recipe-  ribbon, rhinestones/pearls, senti, image):  http://www.trimmiescraftchallenge.blogspot.com/

Fav. embellishment - toss up between ribbon and rhinestones: http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.co.uk/

Cherry is a fruit

This set from Ippity (Unity Stamps) always brings a smile - I am sure many of us can relate!  I think cherries are one of the most delicious summer fruits - but the season is SO short!  I used pink and brown - I used a verse inside that says: Birthdays are nature's way of telling us to eat more chocolate, so the color evokes the thought of chocolate cake.  The tag is cut with edging scissors, and the flowers cut from the Olivia alpha set (CB).  I colored the image with Prismas and a gold gel pen.  The icing is Ranger's Enamel accent, for added dimension - highlighted with gold glitter.
Sketch #262 - March:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/
Dimension :  http://lawnscaping.blogspot.com/
Fruit:  http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/

Summer fun on the beach

This Cool Cat is a Hambo digi.  I colored with Prismas, and used Ranger Enamel Accents (white) for the cat - I think you can see a hint of the texture.  I added a scrap of DCWV summer DP, some twine, and a die cut sun (from the CB Olivia alpha set.)  In case you are wondering, I am not sure what that pink liquid could be...
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Summer fun:  http://2sisterschallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Summer fun:  http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/
Beach:  http://marksfinestpapers.blogspot.com/
Sunny weather:   http://carabbiemomentsofcraft.blogspot.co.uk/

Summer is here

Birds and flowers - sure signs of summer!  The sentiment and image (Country Garden) are High Hopes, colored with Prismas.  The DP and cs are from my stash.
Sketch:  http://www.thehousethatstampsbuilt.com/
Summer:  http://highhopesstamps.blogspot.com/
Summer:  http://livelaughstamp.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/wordplaysaturday
Inspiration:  http://www.addictedtostamps-challenge.blogspot.com.au/
The great outdoors:  http://drsdesignsblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/challenge-75-great-outdoors.html

Graduation Congratulations, Stephen

er

We just received an announcement for a graduation that took place several days ago, so it is time to get this card in the mail.  To personalize it, I used the sketch of his school from the announcement, as well as the burgundy and silver.  sentiment - 7Gypsies Library stamp, Nesties; CB numbers, sticker - cap and silver strip.  I left off frills to keep it suitable for a guy.
Sketch:  http://trystampinontuesday.blogspot.co.uk/
Masculine:  http://getinkychallenge.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://paperplaytime.blogspot.com/
Congratulations:  http://memascrafts.blogspot.com/2010/06/junes-challenge-with-twist.html

for their 50th

I am not sure I am happy with this result - I may have to tweak it a bit.  I used part of a doily for the half circle,  The small circle is DP, with a sentiment stamped on a strip of the dark pink.   The border punch is Martha Stewart.    I used the pink, lacy look for inspiration as well as 3 clear pearls at the top.
Sketch:  http://designed2delight.com/blog/
Inspiration:  http://www.theshabbytearoom.blogspot.com/
Inspiration, with pearls and lacy ribbon:  http://theribbonreelchallenge.blogspot.com/
Doily:  http://digidarlas.blogspot.com/
"3" (pearls):  http://glitternsparklechallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/

A kitty for you

This image is a freebie is one of several I got a while ago from sliekjestamps.  Thank You!  I used a LifeStyle crafts EF - the cs I used split in several places while being cut - I went for the rustic look and adhered the split pieces! 
Sketch: 
"Drink and be merry" - this kitty looks like he/she is having fun!  http://drsdesignsblog.blogspot.com-eat-drink-and-be-merry.  http://drsdesignsblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/challenge-74-eat-drink-and-be-merry.html
Kraft with twine:   http://www.thekraftjournal.blogspot.com/
Kraft cs:  http://simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/
Twine:  http://stampedblessings.com/

Quilting Party

This House Mouse image is perfect for a friend who quilts.  I colored with Prismas and gel pens, added a bit of tape and ribbon and a charm - which only shows a bit at the top - it is heart shaped.  Sorry!
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
House Mouse, with a charm:  http://housemouse-challenge.blogspot.com/
Red, yellow, green:  http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/

You know you're old...

This image is by Gina K, colored with Prismas.  I used a Spellbinder Ribbon Buckle die, and Recollections sentiment.
Note: our internet is once again unreliable - if my link is posted later - that is the reason.
Inside:  ...when getting lucky means you find your car in the parking lot.

Sketch:  http://craftycreationschallenges.blogspot.com/
anything:  http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/

5oth Anniversary

Friends are celebrating their 50th anniversary - I am making a number of cards for others to give.  I used tape, some ribbon, a computer sentiment, and "50" from Olivia (CB) dies.
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.craftdoormagazine.com/
Love:  http://inkychicks.blogspot.co.uk/
Anniversary;  http://delightfulsketches.blogspot.com/

Another for Dad

First of all, an update...  Please continue to pray for the people of CO who are in the midst of so many wild fires.  At last count, nearly 400 homes were destroyed in the Black Forest area, and some 39,000 people have been evacuated.   Our daughter son in law and family are still evacuated.  Fortunately, they own a fifth wheel and have parked with friends.  They are certain their house still has electricity - it is a mile or two just east of the burned area.  LATER - according to TV news, their area is being allowed back in - maybe tonight?  (Fri.)

This is a masculine card with a sentiment and verse that could be for Father's Day or simply for a special occasion.  OK, I know the paw prints are wrong - I left a lot of supplies behind when we packed the motor home for the summer (intentionally) - I guessed wrong on how much paper I would like  to have available!

Stamps:  Embossing Arts, Recollections;  DP:  Paper Studio;  border punch:  Martha Stewart;  Cheery Lynn Tiny Things with Wings dies - purchased from Joan's Gardens (there are 4 tiny dragonflies, 2 black and 2 beige); CB Distressed stripes EF, lightly sponged;  twine.

Sketch:  http://sketchandstashchallenge.blogspot.com/

Father's Day/Masculine/Special person:

http://kaboodledoodles.blogspot.com/

http://dutchdare-cardchallenges.blogspot.com/

http://dianamlarson.blogspot.com/

http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/06/this-weeks-challenge_13.html

http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/

http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/

For Father - relax

Another card for father - close to the deadline!  THis is a great masculine stamp by AI, and the plaid (Paper Studio) works well.  I added some of the Cheery Lynn Wreath die cut - good instead of hearts or flowers for a guy.  It does not seem to show, but the chair is beige.
Sketch:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/
Father's Day:   http://inkyimpressionschallenges.blogspot.com/
                http://stampedblessings.com/2013/06/amusing-challenges-fathers-day/

Dad having summer fun?

This is a card for dad - one of the challenges is fun in the sun -not sure he is having fun!

I got the image from a friend at WishRAK (SS) and have forgotten the origin.  He probably represents a lot of golfers!!!  I colored with Prismas, and used a variety of Basic Grey dp (Hopscotch).  The letters are CB Olivia, and I used some leafy die cuts from Cheery Lynn.  I outlined the Nestie Label directly from the ink pad - I sometimes find that the next size of Nestie makes too large a piece.

For the boys:  http://crafts4eternity.blogspot.co.uk/

Sketch:  http://sweetstopsketches.blogspot.com/ 

Embossing:  http://pinkgemchallengeblog.blogspot.com/

Summer Fun:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/

Digi frame

First of all, a personal note.  Please include in your prayers the people in Colorado affected by the many fires.  Our daughter and son-in-law had to evacuate last night.  They managed to pack up quite a few important items, and had help to get their vehicles, including a fifth wheel.  We have been watching tv and internet sites all day to try to figure out the affected Black Forest area.  As of tonight, it seems they are just a couple of miles from the SE edge of the fire - so far, the strong winds have been in their favor - but the last report we heard indicated close to 100 homes destroyed.  With little or no containment, that number is going to increase.
As a result, this card took me forever to complete - I was pretty distracted.  I tried the freebie from Delicious Doodles, then was not sure how to use it!  I hand cut the borders including butterflies.  I colored with Prismas and gel pens.  The "leaves" are from the Cheery Lynn wreath die - available at Joan's Gardens.  She also has many CB and Spellbinder items.  I used the CS Swiss Dots for the hot pink layers.
Sketch:  http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Digi frame:  http://deliciousdoodleschallenge.blogspot.com/
Pink, black, embossing (oops - I used a circle rather than oval - too distracted.  I will see if I can fix it.) http://www.atjoansgardens.com/

For a golfer wannabe - Walter

This image and DP have been in my possession for a long time - sent by a friend at Wish RAK - she thoughtfully stamped some to paper piece and included extra (SU) dp.  This guy is Golfafella.  I added some Baker's twine and a JustRite sentiment.
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
Father's Day:  http://wagsnwhiskersrubberstamps.blogspot.com/
Sport:  http://dreamvalleychallenges.blogspot.com/
Masculine:   http://getinkychallenge.blogspot.com/

Relax and Fish

http://getinkychallenge.blogspot.com/

We have many fishermen at our summer RV park - 3 have birthdays today!  I had te be innovative with this die cut - my "square" Labels set decided to hide - so I used this one, and used the side of the die to cut the end in a more straight line (left side) so it would fit the image and the card. The DP is from a small set of fishing designs. 
Sketch, with a die cut: http://diecuttindivas.blogspot.com/
Go fish:  http://drsdesignsblog.blogspot.com/2013/06/challenge-73-go-fish.html
Any:  http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
Brads:  http://artimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/2013/06/challenge-111-use-brads-or-eyelets-week.html
For a man:  http://getinkychallenge.blogspot.com/

Thank you!

This is a High Hopes image - colored with Prismas.  The color does not look quite right - it is more of a salmon color with the greens and blues.  The papers are DCWV
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Thank you:  http://highhopesstamps.blogspot.com/

Blessings and encouragement

For this card, I selected some DCWV DP that I have had a long time.  The scripture is one of several sent by a friend at WishRAK (Splitcoaststampers) - it reminds me of he poer and blessings of God.  I used Memory Box and Nestabilities dies, Petaloo flowers and a few misc. rhinestones as well as Martha Steward tape.
Sketch:  http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/
Blessings/encouragement:  http://www.ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Shining%20the%20Light%20Challenge
Blessings: http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/
Die cuts, with encouraging Scripture:  http://twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com.au/ 
Wasabi, saffron, plum:  http://www.addictedtostamps-challenge.blogspot.com.au/

Fishing is a sport

More later!!!
Monday, June 10 - our internet is not so great, and I ran out of time to finish this one on Sat.  I  am at our club house and forgot to bring the details.  I believe the stamp company is Holly Hill.  I used some fishing DP, and a sticker to add to the fishing theme.  I colored with Prismas.  I will not use a Father's Day card, but I thought the For You sentiment could be appropriate. 
There are lots of challenges for Father's Day / Masculine themes:
 http://partytimetuesdays.blogspot.com/
 http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/
http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.co.uk/
http://perfectsentimentschallenge.blogspot.com/
http://www.bellichallenge.blogspot.com/

Vintage for Father

One more with a vintage vehicle!  When I inked up the EF, I made two panels - this is the first, darker one.  I like the other best - it is the previous post.  Just a different look!  The EF is LifeStyle, the image Tim Holtz, the sentiment Just Rite.  Once I figured out what to do, this is a fairly quick card to make.
Father's Day:  http://anythingchallenge.blogspot.com/
Masc/Father's Day:  http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/ http://justri
Manly: http://justritestampers.typepad.com/justrite-inspiration/justrite-friday-challenge/

Vintage masculine

Here is another of several masculine cards - again using the Tim Holtz Journey set.  I inked the LifeStyle crafts EF - I think it looks a bit like tire tracks - what do you think?  The swirls are from Spellbinders, and the HB is Just Rite. There are two strips of cream colored ribbon as well.  The shading and image are a vintage look.
Sketch:  http://sundaysketchandstamp.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://www.lovesrubberstampschallenges.com/
 Masculine, with ribbon:  http://herecometheboysblogchallenge.blogspot.com/
Vintage/chic:  http://cutedaisymay.blogspot.com/
For the fellas:  http://creativecraftchallenges2.blogspot.com/

RAK in B & W

This is a card I made for the TeaPot Tuesday challenge on Splitcoaststampers.  We are sending cheer to someone who is seriously ill - his major interests are motorcycles and horses - this is not an Apaloosa but the best I have!  I used a variety of black and white papers and twine.  I try to find something besides flowers so thought this punch would work.  The image is Inkadinkado, and the sentiment Close to my Heart. I know this is not what you would normally think of, but the image reminds me of spring and summer - as we travel through the countryside we see so many "spring babies" and their mothers!
Sketch:  http://sketchsaturday.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2013-06-03T12:30:00%2B01:00&max-results=4
Summer:  http://pinkgemchallengeblog.blogspot.com/

Father's Day birthday

I don't have any one to whom I would send a Father's Day card - but that is the day of my brother's birthday, so this is kind of double duty. Once again I used a new Tim Holz stamp set, with Ranger Distress Tea Dye ink.  It is combined with some cute DP from a Wish RAK (SCS) friend.  The image is cut with Nesties Labals 4.   I have lost the id for this set of sentiments.  It does not fit my oval, so I cut it with scissors - then distressed the edges to hide my cutting!!
Sketch #41:  http://annabellestamps.blogspot.com/
Father's Day, with a die cut:  http://cutitupchallenges.blogspot.com/
Father's Day:  http://sweetstampinchallengeblog.blogspot.com/

Ervin's birthday

Ervin's birthday

I need so many masculine cards in the near future - DH and his twin (#81!!!), and two friends next Monday.  I got this in the mail today so it should be on time.  I got a Tim Holtz set (The Journey) a while ago and have used only one stamp so this is a good time to try different views.  There is not much to explain.  The ink is Tea Dye distress ink, and I used my go-to HB folder (Cuttlebug).I added a button with some cord and a bit of washi tape.
Sketch:  http://seemsalittlesketchy.blogspot.com/
Masculine, with ribbon (cord):  http://herecometheboysblogchallenge.blogspot.com/
3 of same letter (B= brad, button, birthday, brown):   http://crafts4eternity.blogspot.co.uk/
"B":  http://glitternsparklechallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/

Color with markers

The image, by the Rubber Cafe, is colored with Fiskars metallic gel pens.  The bg is  the Cuttlebug Victoria EF, and I used a LifeStyle EF for the pink circle.
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
 Embossing:  http://paperprettiesblog.blogspot.com/
Markers:  http://www.addictedtostamps-challenge.blogspot.com.au/
Any:   http://simonsaysstampschallenge.blogspot.com/

For my sister

Our prayers are with all who are dealing with the suffering and devastation as a result of so many tornadoes, storms, and other natural disasters.
I just heard yesterday that my sister was injured as a result of Friday's tornadoes in OK.  She lives about 40 miles from what I thought was the path so I had not really been overly concerned.  However, they had been in the underground shelter some 100 yards away from the house.  When the warnings cleared, she was opening the trap door when the wind caught the door - which hit her in the jaw.  I was not able to get a lot of detail as she could not talk much - she at least needs a fair amount of dental work.  So I am sending her this card.  She enjoys nostalgic items so this digital image is great for her - sorry, I cannot locate the original in my files so I do not know the artist.  It is a precolored image - I touched up the flowers and pump.  (Thanks, Suze - it is from Beccy's Place.)   I used a LifeStyle crafts leaf EF, and the Cheery Lynn Wreath Strip die.  I really like the versatility of that die - purchased at Joan's Gardens.  The flowers are Petaloo.
Sketch (#68):  http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/
White, green, purple; purple flowers; sentiment; leafy bg; item from her store:   http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/05/this-weeks-challenge_30.html
 Any:  http://www.inkspirationalchallenges.blogspot.com/
Flowers:  http://sweetstampsblog.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://partytimetuesdays.blogspot.com/

Layered birthday

One more image with scanner no know-how!!!  I will see some grandkids tomorrow - maybe they can help.
I am not much for using yellow, but this is a great shade and I like it with the floral image from Our Daiy Bread ( Birthday set).  I used a new die from Cheery Lynn - called leafy wreath, but it is a border punch - though the branches can be used separately.  I colored with Prismas and gel pens.
ETA:  I did get help and here is the better image.
Sketch:  http://tuesdaymorningsketches.blogspot.com/
Many layers: http://stamp-n-doodle.blogspot.co.uk/
ODB stamp, and die:  http://www.ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Shining%20the%20Light%20Challenge
Hand colored image:  http://lacysunshinechallengeblog.blogspot.co.uk/

Happy 80th

See below for photo explanation!  This is for the 80th birthday of a member of our Bible Class.  He is somewhat challenged both mentally and physically - so this is a special milestone.  I hope he enjoys the card.
Brown cs ha been in my stash for a couple of years - as has the image, from WishRAK on SCS:  http://clearitoutchallenge.blogspot.com/
sketch:  http://feeling-sketchy.blogspot.com.au/

Any:  http://kaboodledoodles.blogspot.com/

Floral and acetate

Oh, to be more technical!  All of a sudden something happened to the settings on my scanner - I need to find someone to help create a "full" image.  Oh, well...
I hope you can see the results of my experiment - to meet challenges using an unusual item/recycling (acetate).  I used the same leafy embossing folder on the acetate - the result was a milky look on the embossed leaves.  I then placed it over the green layer in the same spot - except I should have had a larger piece as much of it is covered with the image.  The acetate was from some packaging, and there were lots of bumps and curves so the flat section was a bit small.  This is something I will do again - maybe with flower dies next time.  I used a bit of the CB birthday folder, and a Hampton Arts stamp, colored with chalk pencils.  I finally got to use the picket fence die I bought from Joan's Gardens.
Sketch, with lace:  http://sketchandstashchallenge.blogspot.com/
Outdoors: http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/
Outdoor fun - take a walk!:  http://sentimentalsundays.blogspot.com/
The woods:  http://simonsaysstampandshow.blogspot.com/
Leafy bg; white, green, purple; purple flowers; sentiment; item from her store:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/05/this-weeks-challenge_30.html
Acetate packaging - not usually used for cards:  http://inkyimpressionschallenges.blogspot.com/ 
Transparent:   http://stampotiquedesignerschallenge.blogspot.com/2013/04/sdc-may-2013-challenge-links.html

Thinking of you RAK

This will be good for one of several RAK cards I would like to send.  The sentiment is from SU Thoughts and Prayers' the DP is an old DCWV pad I have had for a LONG time.  The strip is tape from Recollections.
Sketch: http://sundaysketchandstamp.blogspot.com/
Square card: http://twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com.au/
Encouraging:  http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/

Navy and White

I am not here often as we are in the RV and internet access is not good - at times uploading to my SCS gallery goes more smoothly, for some reason.
I used Nesties dies, a Sizzex EF, and a stamp by Hampton Art, using navy ink.  I added sheer ribbon and white metal brads.  I am not sure how much will show, but the white circles were the ultimate in recycling - I used some cs that had been unintentionally printed with a colored bg (pale blue).
Sketch:  http://www.sweetsketchwednesday.blogspot.com/
Navy ink:  http://simonsaysstampandshttp://incywincydesigns.blogspot.com/how.blogspot.com/
Metal:  http://incywincydesigns.blogspot.com/
Brads:  http://paperplaytime.blogspot.com/
White, no DP:  http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/

CAS pastel

CAS cards are the most difficult for me.  I forced myself to keep this clean!  The strip is a CB border die, and I added bits of the negative to highlight the sentiment - I got a bit of ink in the wrong spot!  The sentiment is a 7 Gypsies library stamp - this has a dozen sentiments and is my go-to stamp for small sentiments.
Sketch:   http://lawnscaping.blogspot.com/
CAS in pastel:  http://cleanandsimpleonsunday.blogspot.com/
CAS with a sentiment:  http://sentimentalsundays.blogspot.com/

Another white, black and red

I used a CB border die, and Cheery Lynn  wreath border which I cut to make the trim at the right.  The vellum flower is a Spellbinders die - all backed with Swiss dots embossing.  The image has been in my stash ( a gift), and the sentiment is7Gypsies library stamp.
 Black:  , white, red; vellum flower; border die; sentiment; Cheery Lynn die sold at Joan's Garden:  http://www.atjoansgardens.com/http://www.atjoansgardens.com/
Dry embossing, with a Cheery Lynn die:  http://cheerylynndesignschallenge.blogspot.com/
Red, black white; sentiment, vellum flowhttp://cheerylynndesignschallenge.blogspot.com/
Black, white and one color:  http://lexiscreations.blogspot.com/
(I have been trying to complete this for 3 days, while on the road - sorry if there are errors.)

Another Graduation - Leah

This is my second graduation card - two granddaughters, one HS, one college - same family, same day, hundreds miles apart.  what a problem.  I used a photo of her high school.  Sorry - the L got tipped and I did not notice - too many things going on right now.  I will fix it!  The DP are both Basic Grey.  THe mortar board is a chip board sticker. 
Sketch:  http://bearlymine-challenges.blogspot.com/
Mix & Match:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/
Any  http://annabellestamps.blogspot.com/
   http://paper-craftingjourney.blogspot.com/
   http://craftycatzweeklychallenge.blogspot.com/

Anna's Graduation

My apologies for this scan - not sure why it looks like this.
Our granddaughter will graduate from her university in a week.  She has been student teaching this semester and will be looking for an elementary school teaching position.  We wish her all the best in this.  She has also been with several choir tours (church, high school, college) so I wanted to include the music.
I used her college colors and seal.  I have had the Cuttlebug die for a while and this seemed a good time to use it. The image is a Bella.
Sketch:  http://mojomonday.blogspot.com/
Special woman:  http://cutedaisymay.blogspot.com/
Special woman:  http://digistamps4joy.co.za/eshop/
Celebration: http://greatimpressionsstamps.blogspot.com/
For a lady:  http://kaboodledoodles.blogspot.com/

Bless you

This RAK card is for a man who has severe health problems, but his faith is a big help to him.  I hope it will encourage him.  The Scripture is a digi, and the sentiment was sent to me.  I used a Halloween scene (Sizzix) for the tree, and covered the pumpkin with the sentiment.  The green cs and DP are from Amuse.  I cut the corners with edging scissors - used an inverted scallop.
Sketch:  http://graphicatsketchs.blogspot.com/
White with some green: sweetstampsblog.blogspot.com/
Trees, with encouragement:  http://twistoffaithcards.blogspot.com.au/
"B" - Bless you, Bible verse:  http://www.craftysentiments.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://stampedblessings.com/amusing-challenge/
Any:  http://bearlymine-challenges.blogspot.com/

s

Emerson in red and white

I have procrastinated in doing this red and white card, as I was trying to think of something that did not look too much like a Valentine or Christmas.  This Emerson works well for that color combination.  I added dots to her dress with the gel pen.  The dp is not quite spots - they are tiny stars.  This is DP that I have had in my stash for several years - and I had scraps just the right size.  The bg is a new swirl folder.
Sketch:  http://sketchandstashchallenge.blogspot.com/
Red & white:  http://ladybugscraftsinkchallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Any:  http://annabellestamps.blogspot.com/
Spots & Stripes:  http://cutedaisymay.blogspot.com/
Any, with encouragement:  http://www.wordartwednesday.blogspot.com/

Tailored and Elegant for Mother

My mother has been gone for several years, but I should find a mother to send this to.  This is a favorite image, by Endless Creations.  I used odds and ends of cs.  I embossed the CB Victoria folder.  It is very hard to see, but the black strip has embossed faux stitching, done with a CB border folder.  The scrollwork at the bottom is cut with a CB border die.  I am terrible at piercing, even with a metal template but I gave it a go!  ALso hard to see - I added glitter to the flowers for more sparkly elegance.  Also, the scroll work and the mat for the image are shimmery black cs.
Black and white:  http://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/  
Sketch #63:  http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/p/papertake-sketches.html
For Mother:   http://cuttlebugmania.blogspot.co.uk/
Piercing:  http://www.ourdailybreaddesignsblog.blogspot.com/search/label/Shining%20the%20Light%20Chhttp://eurekastamps.blogspot.com/allenge
Faux stitching: http://www.trimmiescraftchallenge.blogspot.com/

Fun Masculine birthday

I always need more masculine cards:  Both the image and sentiment were sent to me - I think the image might be GinaK.  I used a bit of the CB trellis border die, and some twine from Paper Pizzazz.
The DP is from Basic Grey Hopscotch - kind of goes with the Goofy sentiment and image!
Sketch:  http://sundaysketchandstamp.blogspot.com/
Masculine:  http://basicgreychallenges.blogspot.com/2013/04/challenge-92-masculine.html#comment-form
Any:  http://partytimetuesdays.blogspot.com/

T.U.L.I.P.S.

For some reason the color is not at all true - the image is more pink and less purple IRL.  I used a digi freebie from A Day for Daisies, with some newsprint type print on the DP. 
This challenge - http://www.atjoansgardens.com/2013/04/this-weeks-challenge-4-25-13.html - uses the letters in TULIPS - and some were a bit of a stretch for me!  T = texture; U = Unity (sentiment) stamp;  L = lavender, layer, leaves; I = image, inset;  P = pink. poppy(??); S = sentiment, shading.  The Victoria EF can be purchased at Joan's shop.  Yes, it is debossed - the cs is double sided and I put it in the folder wrong http://foreverfriendschallengeblog.blogspot.com/side up.
Sketch:  http://digisketchchallenge.blogspot.com/
Anything:    http://foreverfriendschallengeblog.blogspot.com/
Flowers:  http://pileitonchallenge.blogspot.com/
Newsprint, using their image:  http://adayfordaisies.blogspot.com/