A site for my handmade cards, accompanied by my photos and written meanderings which are occasionally witty, often tongue-in-cheek, and rarely profound. Beginning in June 2013, you'll also see lots of NBUS, which is an acronym I coined for Never-Before-Used-Schtuff. Note: my Privacy Policy can be found at a tab below and you can find my NBUS Challenge online. I hope you'll join in the fun there! Thanks for coming by! Have a beverage and enjoy!

September 4, 2014

NBUS Challenge #2! Here We Go!

Hello, my lovely lovely friends!

Never-Before-Used-Schtuff (Stamps, Dies, EFs, etc.)I am into and over my next milestone in follower numbers, so here we go with the second NBUS challenge!!

For those of you who have joined recently, NBUS stands for "never-before-used schtuff." The challenge is to use your virginal NBUS on a new creation, simple as that. Well, I mean there are other rules (below), but the theme is as simple as that. To see the first challenge, click here.

I made up the aachronym NBUS because I was purchasing product at a faster rate than I was using it. (I see you nodding your head in sisterhood and brotherhood.) Often I was just plain forgetting I owned the schtuff. Also, I'm old, so there's that. I started challenging myself to turn my NBUS into US and that has helped me use it up at a faster rate.

And you dearies have picked up the NBUS moniker, joined the brigattitude, and encouraged me to start a challenge. It was so much fun last time and the 281 entries were so amazing, I hope you will play this time, too! With the holidays, I won't be holding another challenge until the new year.

Rules

I have created a tab at the top of my blog for the NBUS Rules, so please refer to that before you begin. Some of you have asked if you can use brand-spanking new schtuff for the challenge and the answer is YES. That's the word "yes" as in "certainly." (I didn't want you to think it stood for another new aachronym!) 

Prizes

09/11/14 UPDATE: It's been a week and I see there are over 100 entries in the challenge, so five prizes doesn't seem like enough, does it? Let's up your odds a bit, shall we!

FIVE (5) TEN (10) $25 gift certificates will be

awarded to your choice of either

Inspiration Emporium or Simon Says Stamp!!


Since the first challenge, Simon Says Stamp (SSS) now offers online gift certificates. Inspiration Emporium is an American company, but they have a flat rate $10 overseas shipping rate which is exceptional. I hope these choices will be pleasing to everyone. 

Optional

The side option this time is the following multiple choice. Just to be clear, this option is just for fun and will not be considered when I throw you in the random thingie for prizes. 
  1. Christmas
  2. Make two cards using the same stamp.
  3. Both of the above.
  4. None of the above.
I chose number 3 for my Inspiration make:
I made my sediment banner with the Flying Nun wings because I thought it was different and also it looked a bit like the roof of a house. If you don't know what "Flying Nun wings" are, God bless you for your youth.

The sediment was made using the PTI die from "Wonderful Words Christmas" and I can't remember if I've used it before. (Goshwillikers, I wonder if the new computer will come with an extra memory chip?) The red sparkle paper is SU and the gold is cut from an ancient piece of handmade paper in my stash. Isn't it cool? I would never have remembered I had this paper if I hadn't organized all my papers recently. Both die cut sediments were outlined with white, but you have to look hard at a close-up to see that bit.

I used WOW cable car red and PSE gold embossing powders on the background. I'm sorry the embossed red houses didn't photograph as shiny and glossy as the gold ones did, but really, you would expect gold to show better considering the price.

My NBUS items are two Hero Arts stamps. That background was made using S5532 "Home and House Background," and the the inside (below) was made using K5534 "Winter Village." I only Versamarked and embossed part of the Winter Village stamp so I could add the sticker greeting.

So then the next thing that happened was Hammy woke up from his afternoon nap and said sardonically, "How are you going to mail those, Cap'n Think About It?"

Oh.

And now my cards look like this, ready for signing and mailing!
I am entering the gold card immediately above in the Jingle Belles challenge "Baby, It's Gold Outside" and the gold one with "wings" into the Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge. The red one immediately above is for the "Anything Goes" Christmas Card Challenges.

600-number
Thank you! Mwah!!
~~~

OKAY, GO FOR IT! I can't wait to see what you bring me! 

The challenge will end at noon on Thursday, September 25, 2014 and the winners will be announced at noon on Sunday, September 28, 2014.

Enjoy your day! No, seriously, enjoy.  LITS!*  

 
*Life Is Too Short!

157 comments:

Rahmat said...

Wow your cards are amazing as always Darnell, will play for sure :) I won't say I am loaded with NBUS, but yes I do have schtuff which I forgot that I have!

Sammy said...

Oh those cards are stunning Darnell! Loving the festive sparkle!
And I will absolutely be playing along! I have my huge bag of NBUS sitting next to me at my desk, just itching to be used for your challenge. (Just not all of it, because that would probably necessitate me entering about 300 times... Oops...)

Sarah said...

Fab cards Darnell and yes I have NBUS at the ready!! xx

Julie B said...

NBUS at the ready Darnell!! x

Cathy said...

Gorgeous chrissy cards. I love how different colours make these cards look so, well, different!! Looking forward to digging out some NBUS to play along, Cathy x

Peanut said...

I spy Christmas on top of the list and am moved to participate! For the record, I do remember the Flying Nuns ... Who needs wings to fly? Aaaah, those were the days. BTW, your cards are pretty special too. :)
hugs, Asha

Ustvarjalni utrinki Tamara P. said...

Great challenge
and your cards are breathe taking
so festive
love them
hugs Tamara

Carole said...

Congratulations [600] How do you keep up...and manage to write such wonderful and witty comments when you visit.
Oh this sure sounds like a fun challenge...and wowy cazowy the cards you made are crazy cool..astounding how they show together...brilliant DJK...and the wings were super fun...it's a shame they couldn't fly. Keep on Keeping on girl...you look marvelous {using a Billy Crystal voice}darling! Hugs Carole

Kim M said...

Congrats on reaching 600 followers! That's amazing! Love your Christmas cards! That gold paper is totally fabulous! Can't wait to play along again! I had tons of NBUS stuff. And more on the way! LOL! Hugs! :-)

Sarn said...

Super holiday cards Darnell.

CONGRATS on reaching your next mile stone.

Hugs, Sarn xxx

Linda said...

Whoo hoo! another NBUS challenge, fantastic!!! Already searching through the 'box of things bought and haven't seen the light of day since' I'm sure there'll be something in there that fits the bill.
Fabulous cards hun .... I love the red version, very festive! And Congratulations on reaching 600 (followers that is!)
Big hugs ..... Linda xx

Jenny L said...

Hi Darnell,
what fab cards.
Love those super stamps, and what you have created with it.
It's a pity about the flying Nun part.
I am going to join in with this one as I was ill last time and couldn't.
So as Arnie in the film says I'll be back.
Lots of crafty love. Jenny L.

Jenny L said...

Hi Darnell,
what fab cards.
Love those super stamps, and what you have created with it.
It's a pity about the flying Nun part.
I am going to join in with this one as I was ill last time and couldn't.
So as Arnie in the film says I'll be back.
Lots of crafty love. Jenny L.

Jenny L said...

ooooooooo sorry I pressed twice thinking nothing was happening.

Gerrina said...

Congrats on reaching that unbelieveble number of 600 (and more)!
Great bold cards; they look so festive!
Each week I use some NBUS or neglegted stash and I really like how different my cards and things look from when I first bought a stamp or die...so I think participating is dubble fun! Hugs, Gerrina

Stamps and Paper said...

Congratulations Darnell on reaching 600 followers...
Love your Christmas card designs very classy cards

Anne

Stamps and Paper said...

Congratulations Darnell on reaching 600 followers...
Love your Christmas card designs very classy cards

Anne

Sue - said...

Just love the red sparkly one - and the gold one too!

I Card Everyone said...

Both are darling, darling! I'm psyched D... I didn't know about the first one since I'm kinda new to the game. Can't wait to play!! Hmmmm... do I have NBUS?
=] M

Susanne Vargas said...

Congratulations on 606! That's fabulous! And you are celebrating with a new NBUS challenge - woohoo! I hope to play along! No lack of NBUS in this craft room! I wonder if I will ever run out of NBUS?

Jeanne said...

Very festive cards, Darnell. Love how they sparkle and shine. :) Congrats on the uptick in followers! That's fantastic! Have a happy day!

Alanna said...

These are so gorgeous Darnell. Very classy and perfect for Christmas. I'm so happy you are doing another challenge. Congrats on all the new followers.

Chriss Blagrave said...

Oh, what a wonderful post to see this morning! I have been a pondering when this event might take place and this is the month...yeah!
Love the cards you created Darnell, with and without the Flying Nun Wings. Too bad you had to chop them down...but I understand :)
I will be playing along latr in the week. I have been organizing every day for at least 15 minutes and I have come across some really old NBUS stamps from SU, circa 2004. Yes, 10 years old and not even mounted to the wood. I snipped and mounted last night, mentioning to my Mister that these were the age that they are and he had a peculiar look on his face. I am not sure if he was thinking "love, you have so much sctuff that you don't know what is in that room" or if he was as amazed as me that the glue backed rubber would still stick to the wood! Anyway...not sure what will appear on my creation for the NBUS, but it will be fun to select for your challenge!
Have a great day!

Connie said...

Good Morning Darnell! I am delighted to meet you and happy to become your #607 follower. I like this challenge and will be looking for something to enter. I might have to get the dust out of my brain to get it started, LOL. I did receive the most adorable up-cycled gift from my neighbors for my birthday. I will be posting photos of it, but I can not take any credit. I'm keeping it a surprise, but I have to say, that it stole my heart away:)
Have a wonderful day and thank you for the lovely comment that you left on my blog.
Your newest blogging sister,
Connie :)

Veerle said...

Lovely cards Darnell. I too have a huge pile NBUS. Because I am fairly new to the card making I am catching up in buying supplies that others already have for a long time. However this also means that a lot of this new stuff is in the waiting cue to be used and that it takes much longer than I thought to start using them. Si I will have to make a choise wich NBUS I will use first for your challenge.
Hugs Veerle xx
http://veerleskaartenhoekje.blogspot.be

1CardCreator said...

Love these cards Darnell, what a fun challenge too! I had to laugh when I saw you trim those babies down too, I do stuff like that all the time, make it then figure out how do I mail it, lol. Looking forward to joining in on this one! ~Diane

Pia S said...

You know, I love to see examples of cards using the same image and/or layouts, it's impressive what a difference a change of color can do to a look! As demonstrated in this post! I'll definitely going to join your NBUS challenge this time!

Sue said...

Yippee, glad to see the return of your NBUS challenge, I still have your perfectly colour coordinated badge displayed in my side bar!
Your cards are stunning. I love the image and the colours look amazing. Thank goodness your little trim doesn't ruin your brilliant design.
hugs Sue xx

Kay Miller said...

Yay!! Another NBUS challenge!! I' m so happy since I have created the NBUS mountain range, I need something to help wear those sharp mountain peaks down a bit! haha!! I'm going for #3 too! Sounds fun! LOVE your two cards! All of that fabulous embossing looks marvelous!! Can't wait to get started!!! Yay!!

Geri said...

Fabulous cards Darnell....awesome job embossing the images! I'm hoping to find time to play along with you for challenge #2.

...and...A HUGE, HUGE WHOOOOO HOOOOOO for reaching 600 crafters who love stopping by your lovely playhouse for a visit!

Hettie said...

Yeay! NBUS here we go...maybe! Gorgeous cards there. I must be youngish! Well done Hammy too for his quick thinking!
I will have a look to see if I have anyfink I forgotted I had! Cough!
Hugs
xx

Carol Cel said...

Hi Darnell, cute cards -- I hope to join your NBUS challenge this time around.

KT Fit Kitty said...

Hi, Darnell - How fun! Another NBUS challenge - congratulations on your awesome number of followers! I love your gorgeous cards - I actually like them better without the wings! The gold one is spectacular but the red one is equally as beautiful! Well done!

Shona Chambers said...

Fantabulous cards Darnell! Even though they are the same the colour makes them seem so different, brilliant idea. You know I will be joining you for this challenge, probably many times. Congratulations on the big '600' and I hope your ready for the millions of entries!!!

Redanne said...

Your inspiration, as ever, is amazing, I love both beautiful cards, especially the red and white one. Just beautiful.

Reaching 600 is fantastic - just like you! Hugs, Annie xx

Nora Noll said...

I loved the show "The Flying Nun." Sally Field ROCKS!! (I watched Gidget too!!) LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, your cards. I love the fun background paper you created and your sentiments-FABULOUS. Really awesome challenge!!

Bonnie said...

Congratulations on your 600 mark! I predict you'll be over 700 by the first of the year! Love these cards! Too bad you had to take the flying nun hats off! But airmail is pretty expensive! Isn't it fun to use new schtuff?!!

dottielottie said...

WOW! 600+ followers congratulations Darnell. And WOW for your cards too they are so...well... Christmasy. Love the gold one. Will have to get my rear end in gear to take up your new NBUS challenge. Hugs Lottie x

Carol L said...

Just look at you growing!! I/m thrilled for all of your wonderful followers!! The cards are both great - with or without the flying nun wings! Thanks for the 2nd big NBUS challenge! I can't wait to play!

Karen Petitt said...

OMGEE! I can't believe you've already had a couple of entries lol! Gorgeous cards Darnell - all four of them are real beauties but I do love the red and white, always had a weakness for that combination! Will be back UK time tomorrow as I'm supposed to be asleep right now! Will check the rules too as I don't want to be told off lol!
Congrats on your followers numbers too huni - you are so loved and liked by so many of us because you're a fabulous lady! Karen x

MaryH said...

Wellll! I just saw your name over at Pat's and that you were sneaking in another NBUS! (Now I need to add the tag back on the sidebar!!!). That Hammy...I need him here to spot my mistakes - that critter has got a good eye. Loved both of your Christmas cards, and 'specially the way you charged 'em up with the different colors. 2 down in your CC stash. I'll try to find time to play and congrats on yet another (unsurprisingly) milestone feather in your following cap. TFS & Big Hugs. Mwah!

MackieMade Paper Creations said...

Love those gorgeous cards!!! Yay! 600!!! You go girl!! Can't wait to join in the fun!

Lindsey said...

Hammy is way too sensible. I liked the Flying Nun banners! And love the cards. ;)

Kim Heggins said...

Wow...a big congrats to you my sweet friend! And your cards are just over the top fabulous and so perfect for Christmas! Can't wait to play along.

Marybeth said...

Congratulations Darnell!!!! wow that is a huge number! Way to go! Love both cards with the same stamp how fun! Loving the red and white! Hugs and big congrats!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on another milestone, Darnell. These cards are so sparkly and beautiful.
Heather T

Bobby said...

Had to laugh at the Flying Nun reference. Sally's only a few years younger than I am so I remember her and the show well.

I'm so glad there's a new NBUS challenge. I was afraid I'd have mine all used up before you had one. (Don't tell my husband but I placed an order not too long ago that hasn't arrived yet.)

That little house set makes a great holiday background. You must have used a ton of embossing powder though. ;)

Claire Grantham said...

Congrats Darnell! I obviously have NBUS..I will be rooting around this weekend. LOVE the cards, so shiny and fun. Cx

Taunya Butler said...

I love both your shiny cards - I am partial to the red one but just because to me that is a traditional Christmas color!! They turned out fabulous - love the words, both turned out so great!! I LOVE that stamp set - cute houses, car with christmas tree on it, snowflakes!! Simply looks so good!! I am going to do your challenge this time cuz I have NBUS - plenty of it!! Mostly Stampin' Up stamps I have ordered and never used! Silly me, but I forget which ones I have!! Have a fantastic day and thanks for doing the challenge!!

Lisa Elton said...

I can see that number reaching a gazillion Darnell!!! It's so much fun to visit your blog, who WOULDN'T want to follow you!! Big congrats on the 600 mark and big congrats on these two fabulous cards! That Hammie, he's a wise little chap ;)

Joyce said...

Your two cards are just fantastic. So glad to see you are doing another NBUS challenge. I have been shopping, and this challenge is just what I need.

Loll said...

Love both versions of your beautiful holiday cards Dolly. I know what flying nun wings are ... and I have the gray hair to prove it! :)

Doesn't it make you crazy when you come up with a different way of adding a banner, only to find it won't fit in the darn envie ... luckily, you did a little trimming and no one would be the wiser! Lolly xx

Petra Swart said...

Congrats on the 600, Darnell and thanks for having another NBUS challenge!!!! Will be digging into my stuff to find all the NBUS to use!!

Love your two fun holiday cards!!

Have a super day!!!

Faye Wynn-Jones said...

What a great post to read and delicious cards too. I really like the red version :)

Inkyfingers said...

Congratulations on another milestone my friend! I don't know why it always takes me by surprise that the same card in two different colours can have such a different feel to them. The red card looks sparkly and sassy but the gold one has such an elegant look!
Thank you for another challenge - I'll be back for it!
Hugs
Carol x

Doreen said...

Your cards are just fabulous, thank you so much for helping me over the 1000 follower and your very kind comments. I love reading your blog it so very entertaining.xxx

Carole Z said...

Fab post Darnell and many congrats on the 600! Your two Holiday cards are just gorgeous!!! Hugs Carole Z X

nwilliams6 said...

Darnell, you are too funny girl. I love the flying nun panels but the mailing trick is a big hurdle - I love how you sailed over it. Both are fun card with lots of sparkle and interest. Super post as always! Hugz!

Heather said...

Gorgeous cards Darndll, fabulous designs and stamping. I love the red with die-cut sparkling sentiment - stunning!!!

Thanks so much for joining Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Hop Challenge
hugs
Heather xx

sandie said...

Can't wait to play along and these card are so full of fun and sparkle...just like you!!

Aileen said...

Wow all that sparkle. Did you notice in the post of the christmas card in red second version, you have really really captured the sparkle in the word. Love them. Cant wait to see what gets entered.

Angela said...

Good, I got in while the comment count is low. If you call 61 low. Darnell, you are a genius for coming up with this challenge! I just got a shipment of much needed supplies (lies) and am waiting to try some out. Thank you for NBUS!

Em Louise Fairley said...

Wow Darnell, I love these! I'll be linking up another of the cards I created using my new die and stamp set later :)

Princess Judy Palmer said...

Let's see... if I'm following the rules correctly I make a card or two using options A, B or C or D but not a combination of A and C when doing D and not on a full moon and its okay to use new stuff but not for option C and.... yeah... No, srsly, I get it. I don't have time for it but I get it. I like how all your cards sparkle! Either by glitter or embossing or their own coolness!

OH Babs said...

I am baffled, actually Barb/Babs/Barbara, how in gawdsgreenearth do you find the time to read yet alone answer the letter from your fans? Poor Hammy sure has to work hard. I hope when the new computer comes he gets a new Hampster Wheel. By the way the cards are elegant and lovely and so are you.

Sue said...

Fab cards. Can't believe you know what is fast approaching:)

Hope you have a nice weekend.

Sue said...

Thank you for organising another NBUS challenge, Darnell and congrats on having 600 followers, so well deserved! Love how you made different cards using the same stamps and the gold embossing looks particularly spectular. Thank you for visiting my blog and for your very encouraging comment on my card, it really touched me. xx

Sandy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sandy said...

Yay, a NBUS#2 challenge... I never got around to entering the first challenge (but not for lack of owning any NBUS, I'm afraid), so I'm glad to have another chance.
(deleted previous comment to fix spelling...)

conil said...

Gold or Red, these ROCK! Wings and all. Sadly, I remember flying nun wings. Ah me. Think I'm gonna enter this challenge. Congrats on your follower success.

Brenda said...

Wow Darnell, these two Christmas cards are amazing! I love, love the gold embossing and the red embossing. Those stamps look like so much fun and way to go using NBUS schtuff! Now I will need to get into my stash of NBUS schtuff and post. Hugs, Brenda

Viv said...

Hi Dee ! another week has flown by yet again...it must have wings! Fabulous cards and I am in love with all that sparkliness...my peepers were out on stalks.Oh yes another challenge....if you could only see my mountain of NBUS..it's called Everest now! I must use it..and soon. Enjoy your week my luverly friend :) hugs Vee xx

Barb Ghig said...

Your cards are absolutely gorgeous, Darnell! I love all the embossing, the pretty papers and the beautiful holiday colors...just WOW!

And, another NBUS Challenge? I'm so excited, and can't wait to get started!
Thanks so much for your generosity, and for creating such a fun blog to visit ~ You're the BEST!!! I know, I know, the Mister tells you that all the time :-)

Pat said...

Wow Darnell, 600 followers and another lovely giveaway too! I love these cards, the embossing is beautiful and love the colours too. Hope to enter but will probably be near the end as won't be around til then. x

Tracey McNeely said...

Darnell you really are the most popular in Blogland! I love your embossed cards all so fabulous. I played along with you for fun, NO prizes for me. ~MWAH!!

Anonymous said...

Darnell, your holiday cards are gorgeous!! I love the embossing in gold! Have a great weekend, Deena x

Anonymous said...

Darnell, your holiday cards are gorgeous!! I love the embossing in gold! Have a great weekend, Deena x

Sharon Fontenot said...

Love your cards. Going to be enjoying the NBUS challenges. I've only been paper crafting for a year and a half, but even I have a stash of stuff that will keep me in challenges for months!

Sheila H said...

Hooray for the new challenge. I love your cards. And I plan to enter :)

Vicki Dutcher said...

Oh how fun! Great couple of cards that red is fabulous! I hope to play in your challenge -- so many fun ones this month, so little space on my blog :( - I'll figure it out though! :)

La Papera Gialla said...

Both cards are lovely!
Thanks for playing with us at Christmas Card Challenges!
Monica - CCC DT

Kelly Latevola said...

All that sparkle is just gorgeous! Beautiful cards :)

Sarah G said...

Thank goodness for another NBUS challenge! I have been buying new products like crazy over the past few months and they are sitting in the corner of my craft room looking at me ominously....You are a star - no wonder you have 600 followers :) Love your gold and red cards - perfect amount of festive bling and I love those backgrounds.

Ros Crawford said...

You are such a kind lady! I love your glittery cards and so thoughtful of hammy to help out ... Have a lovely weekend!!

Wendy Nicola Jackson said...

Awesome designs Darnell. LOVE the red, such a Scandinavian feel, which I utterly love. Very cool. Hugs, Wends x

Bridget said...

Gorgeous holiday creations, Darnell! Your NBUS challenge is just fabulous, we all NEEEEEEED that kind of challenge, that's for sure! :)

Paper Creations by Shirley said...

Hi Darnell, gorgeous designs. I wish I could join in the NBUS challenge, but I can't find anything at the moment. The craftroom still needs painting with the boxes sitting unopened. The plants are also waiting for us to do something with them before the cold weather sets in. CONGRATULATIONS on 600+ followers, well deserved!!!!!!! Take care, Hugs, Shirley

Dianne said...

Hello Miss Darnell you sweet woman, over 600 followers, that just show how SPECIAL you are... I finally gor my internet fixed, well kinda, so now I can visit, I have miss my daily dose of you. Your challenge blog is all about fun and we all need that,both those cards are gorgeous and with Hammies input they are spectacular, I have missed you, thanks for my morning chuckles and all the inspiration and making my day, ((( HUGE HUGS ))) sweet thing..

Stamping With Bibiana said...

Great cards for today's post! I will have to read closely all this post later..thge challenge sounds fun! Wonderful idea! cheers from California
Bibiana

Tracey said...

Fabulous cards Darnell :o)
I hope you're having a wonderful weekend.
Hugs
Tracey
xx

Karen M said...

Big Congrats on reaching 600 followers Darnell - your blog is like you - truly fabulous and such a delight:) Looking forward to playing along with your second Nbus challenge and I just adore your sparkly cards....they have reminded me to make on start on my own chrissy cards - time is flying past so quick! Hugs xx

lauren bergold said...

oh wow, this is such a clever xmas card idea & you've sooo totally rocked it! thanks for coming on a GILT TRIP with us at JINGLE BELLES! :)

Mrs.B said...

Love your 2 Christmas cards Darnell, what a shame you had to take the banner off!
Another challenge - need to go through those drawers!
Avril xx

Cornelia (fun stamping) said...

Thanks Darnell for enticing us to use our NBUS schtuff again! Beuatiful cards you created!

Greta said...

Congrats on another milestone, my friend! I knew it wouldn't be long. Love your cards & I saw a roof, too, before I read your post! Hugs, Greta

Laurie Unger said...

Yea! another NBUS Challenge! I love your two Holiday cards! Off to figure out what to make!

SmilynStef said...

Flying nun wings ... so very clever and such a cool effect ... so glad you went for the gold with us at jingle belles this week.

Monika Reeck said...

great embossing Darnell and GRET Christmas card..lovely colors you choose and yeah I must join your challenge...I must...after office hour I will take my papers and stamp and join your challenge Darnell..see you soon on your Linky party.hugs, Monika

Jenny L said...

Hi Darnell,

said I would be back to enter your challenge for the first time.

I did comment before about you lovely cards so I won't do so again.

Good luck to everyone that enter this challenge.

Lots of crafty love. Jenny L.

Theresa's Studio said...

Love your cards and your challenges.

Mary-Anne V said...

Wonderful Christmas cards...funny how you changed them for mailing. Thanks for another great challenge.

Lindsey said...

Congrats on reaching another milestone! And thank you so much for continually inspiring me to use my NBUS!

aussie aNNie said...

I finally made it here Darnell and hope I have done it all correctly.xxx

!neke said...

Congrats ! Over 600 !!!!!!
Love this challenge !

Janis said...

Amazing cards, Darnell!!! Love the gold!!!

Thanks for the lovely NBUS challenge, once again. So much talent and creativity and such a fun way to meet other bloggers!!!
<3 J

jwoolbright at gmail dot com
HerPeacefulGarden.blogspot.com

Kathy said...

I just found your challenge and I'm a new follower. I blog at ktkrafts.blogspot.com

Jenny L said...

Hi Darnell,
just popped back to leave another entry into this fab challenge.
Lots of crafty love. Jenny L.

Bonnie Lynn said...

How are you going to mail that?? Sounds like something one of my kids would say to me or hubby. Huh! Definitely going to play in this one as soon as I get this stinkin migraine under control long enough to sit at the computer for more than 5min this time.

Pam Sparks said...

Great challenge again Darnell! oh boy do I have NBUS! lol I did good for this one! Your cards are fabulous!

Anita in France said...

Glorious, Darnell ... shimmery, sparkly deliciousness! Many congratulations on 600+ followers, my friend ... will definitely set aside some special time to play along! Anita :)

Unknown said...

I am excited about your card ideas. It would be so much fun crafting. Would love to add them on my Pinterest board. Despite the numerous digital cards, I may say I am still a fan of handmade Christmas cards . God bless you in all you do!

Jasleen Kaur said...

What gorgeousness!! I feel like it's Christmas already. Stunnning cards, Darnell. Congratulations on your 600 :) So happy to see your wonderful blog grow. Looking forward to play along NBUS-2 :)

Di said...

Hellooooo my sweet friend! No wonder your blog grows, it's such fun! I came to join in but am dipping out of your generous draw as I won last time! I bought a set of Spellbinders Labels One fancy dies AND a Spellbinders Edwardian door die with my winnings so am a very happy bunnykins here :) MWAH!

Love, Di xx

Helen F. said...

YAY, YOU, Darnell!
Congrats on the not-so-surprising 600+ followers.
Happy to report, I have even more NBUS *gasp* than I did for the first challenge and can't wait to get to it.
Thanks for the smiles your posts bring to so many faces here in BlogLand :-)

Zan said...

Great Blog Darnell... looking forward to joining your challenges and trying to use some of that NBUS I have lying around...Zan

Kirsty Vittetoe said...

I had great fun using my NBUS, thanks for the challenge Darnell!

Cris G. said...

Yay Darnell, my first NBUS to celebrate your new milestone: 600 followers! Hip, hip, who... Ray?

Cris G. said...

P.S. - I thought I had already commented your cards, but it looks like I didn't... my apologies.
Love both cards. I have a big crush for houses and a huge one for Christmas, so... Love the details inside, really pretty.

Nonni said...

Great Christmas cards Darnell, I love the gold embossing! Thank you for the fun challenge (amazing amount of prizes!!) and congrats on all your followers -you sure deserve them all with your inspiring, fun blog. xxx Nonni

very_inky_fingers said...

I really want to thank you for the encouragement to use some things I had never used. It really gives you a good feeling to open up a package that has been sitting around, and create!

susiestacey said...

I have just found you through another bloggers link - l hope to join you soon as l have lots of NBUS x Susan x

Hettie said...

Hia. Not sure if sewing counts, but I am only playing for fun anyhoo!
Hugs
xx

Viv said...

Hi Dee, entering another card...simple one just like me ha ha!thought it might give you a smile anyway.Just playing for fun this time. Many congrats on having so many followers too whoo hoo!!! mwah xx :) hugs Vee

Sam said...

So glad I stumbled across your blog, so much inspiration in the other entries and the kick up the bum I needed to start using stuff I have BEFORE I buy more!!

Manuela said...

Hi Darnell, wow, congrats on your 600,
great cards and a fantastic fun challenge :-)

Marie Bingaman said...

WOWEE, woman, 634 followers of your wit and wisdom!! You're awesome!! :)

Sue VanDeVusse said...

WooHoo! Congrats on the new milestone! Love the 2 looks with the same stamps, fab!

Judy1223 said...

Darnell, it's no surprise you've gained so many new followers! Your cards are fabulous...and I like them Ready for mailing, too! Thanks for hosting another NBUS Challenge...it is ingenious!

Brenda said...

I have entered a "none of the above" card and will be back to do some commenting later Auntie Darnell! Hugs, Brenda

Lynne Mizera said...

Darnell I'm entering my card into the NONE OF THE ABOVE category and Please do pop by my Blog to read the SHOUT OUT I have finally done about YOU.. Grin Cheers! www.scrapbooklynne.blogspot.ca

G Peplow said...

Gosh, so many wonderful cards, just like yours Darnell! They are so good, I love both either red or gold no matter, they're simply brilliant!! Thank you for reminding me that my cards qualified for your fab challenge too :D Hugs Gay xx

Lee-Anne said...

Fabulous cards, Darnell! Love both colors! And yes, I do recognize the term "Flying Nun" :) This is such a great challenge...thanks so much!!!

abusybee - DoubleClick Connections said...

So glad I could join in on your challenge, since I have NBUS!! Carri~Abusybee
Skittles!

Robyn Oliver said...

Fabulous fun playing along with challenge #2 - I love my cards so much I'm thinking to make some more, and so pleased to see you are well past 600 followers. Hugs to you Darnell

Anonymous said...

Well I am so glad I found this. Hope I get a chance to play with some of my mountain of NBUS before 25th - thanks for the gentle push to play with new schtuff :)

Donna Ellis said...

Hi, Darnell! Thank you for getting me started with my Christmas cards! (yes, I am a bit late). Thanks, too, for your amazing challenge. I had never used some of the elements (including the dies) on my card! I love your duo of cards. They are beautiful! So glad to have found your blog, and lucked into the challenge! hugs, de

Bonnie said...

Your challenge is a big hit, Darnell! WOW! I think you're even ahead of SSS! Enjoy the love!

Kris B said...

Thanks for such a great challenge idea! So glad to see I am not the only one with stamps and such that are still waiting, unopened in a drawer! Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a wonderful comment! You made my day! Thanks for following me! Always happy to make a new fiend! I found your blog yesterday and became a follower! Love your sense of humor, especially since I am old enough to know what Flying Nun wings are!

Martha said...

Hi, Darnell! Thanks for hosting this FUN challenge with a FUN name! OH...do I ever have lots of "NBUS"! :-)

Your cards are SO striking!
And...you're one fabulous story-teller!

Vicky Hayes said...

Look at your challenge going viral Darnell (and I mean that in the best possible way of course!) Lovely to see your gorgeous sparkly cards and what a resourceful response to the posting issue! Thanks for explaining about YES - I was imagining Yodel Extra Sassy or Yachting Ends Saturday :)
Hugs, Vicky x

Shelly said...

Both cards are awesome, Darnell!!! And I think I need to join in on the fun! ;) And Congrats, on 600!!!

Harriet Skelly said...

Sheesh - it took me longer to scroll through all of these comments to leave one than it did to make my card! Love your holiday cards - they are gorgeous! Congrats on 600 followers too. I have only made one card since before Labor Day (for ATCAS) and I was glad that I had NBUS on my card so I can celebrate with you. Hugs, Harriet

Aileen said...

Wow your at 250 at this stage. So good, so many beautiful cards. I have finally started posting to flickr. Dont know how to link you there or anything yet and only just started putting photos in an I need to resize each photo as way tooo big to post as is. Have hundreds. Was thinking of linking one I did thisweek with new stuff just not sure I'm ready yet. Love the way you inspire so many people

Milka Gubo said...

Just found your blog :-D It is soooooo fun :-D Love everything here :-D And your Playhouse... oh wow :-D

Leanne ... said...

So happy to find your place here. First...your Christmas cards are adorable. Love em.
Second...thanks for a chance to play along. It's a pleasure.
Hugs...Leanne

Bonnie said...

Wow! So many entries, Darnell! I'm in for the 3rd time. (I'm beginning to be embarrassed about my NBUS stash and have taken to hiding it. Does that make me an addict or even worse, a closet hoarder?) I can't seem to create as fast as I can shop! LOL, the Internet makes it way too easy!

KandA said...

Thank you so much for giving me a big kick on my backside to get me motivated to use my NBUS - just what I needed. But I'm playing just for fun so please don't include me when picking a winner xx

Claire Grantham said...

Great cards from you Darnell. I am happy with my NBUS entries - there is some serious NBUS there!! Cx

Donna said...

Your cards are absolutely stunning, so glad a friend told me about your challenge!

Shaz in Oz.CalligraphyCards said...

wonderful work on getting to 6-0-0... wow, how amazingly large a number is that???
.. see its all in the NBUS :D

great makes with wodnerful stamps just sneaking my way into join by the skin of my teeth or would be if you were quite bit behind us :D thanks for the yummy voucher offerings too, very generous indeedy! Shaz in Oz.x

Robyn Oliver said...

Hi Darnell,,, again...just wanted to say what a special lady you are - over 650 followers and over 300 card entries and all feeling a lot better thanks to you, having now used some of their NBUS and shared the love around...thank you. Hugs Robyn

Kelly Griglione said...

Darnell, I know I said you and Ardyth were the Cher's of the card-making world, but I think I'm going to give that to Ardyth, and think of you as the Maya Angelou of the card-making world. Everyone loved her, and she had an amazing way with words. It's perfect! Wow, I think I'm the 152nd person to comment here, and there's not even a give-away for the commenters. That may be some kind of record (or as your reading this you may be thinking, no, Kelly, it's not a record, last week I had 200 comments!) hahaha!! ANYWAY, love your twin cards and I totally laughed at your account of figuring out how to mail them. Way to keep it real, Darnell! BTW, did you notice the amazing red sparkle you captured on the first photo, on top of the red "d"? It looks like one of those fake star bursts you put on a diamond to make it look all sparkly. So cool!

Thanks for hosting, Darnell, and bringing everyone together again!

Colleen Dietrich said...

Darnell, these two festive-us (are you a Seinfeld fan?) cards are dee-lightful! Both versions!

Thank you so much for hosting another mega-blitz challenge, and for leaving some love at my place recently. You always make me smile!

I Card Everyone said...

I made it!!!! Thank God for time zones!!!
=/ Michele

dottielottie said...

Gosh Darnell I have to stop doing this, I don't mean joining in your challenge I mean leaving things to the last minute Phew! only just made it lol. Any way just look what a FANTASTIC! response you have had. Just shows how much you are loved and respected Mwah
Hugs Lottie x

Janeen said...

oops, i missed it. i made my card and went to enter, uh-oh the cut off was yesterday. i thought i had till the 28th. oh well, next time maybe. i will still leave the link on my blog for you though. :D

A Consuming Passion said...

Hello, what a great idea for a challenge and I will be joining in ....for sure!
Sue W
a-consuming-passion.blogspot.com