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!

August 27, 2018

A Story of Friendship and A Rare Ruby Hop!

Hello Stamplings,

Happy Monday morning! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! We had the twinsters and the time went by too quickly. Adam is still in good spirits as he deals with that cumbersome chest and neck brace. It won't be long before it is removed and we hopefully get the good news that he won't need surgery.

So what's happening here today is that I was delighted when my friend Rubeena asked me to be a part of the 4-year anniversary celebration of her delightful blog, A Rare Ruby

Ruby asked us to share why we craft and how much joy this hobby brings us. What a beautiful premise for a hop! Briefly, I started making cards back in 2002 because I was a person who loved sending greeting cards and I was spending a lot of money on cards. I thought making my own cards would be way cheaper. Oh, bwahahahahahahahahahahaha! My goodness, that makes me laugh so hard the tears run down my leg!

When I started making cards, my resources were Stampin' Up workshops and magazines. It wasn't until years later in 2011 that I discovered an entire Blogland community of like-minded card artists on the Interwebs. What a treasure trove of ideas! I stalked around a bit, as one does, and then I decided to launch my own blog. I never dreamed pushing that button to publish would be the start of endless inspiration, a wealth of knowledge, and a never-ending pool of friendships!

In truth, the order of those benefits of blogging should be in reverse for me because I find the friendships I have made to be the most precious and priceless. I made this QACAS card for the hop to reflect that:
Using a linen card base, I brushed a Broken China background panel using a Tim Holtz stencil. You would think the little bits of china would have made it difficult, but it went on very easily. Then I embossed the front with a Cuttlebug e/f. Next, I die cut the NBUS word die, Zigged the little NBUS flower from MFT, and added them both. Of course, you-know-who added winking!

*ETA: A lot of you wrote to ask the name of the e/f I used, which I didn't know because I didn't have the packaging or I would have mentioned it. Some of you asked me to email to let you know, but you are "no reply" bloggers so I have no way of contacting you. Just for the heck of it, I did a Google search and tried "Cuttlebug branches" because it looks like branches and it popped right up! Whoot! The name is "Forest Branches" by Cuttlebug.

I've been blessed with many followers, and over 220 of them have become card pen pals. I've also been fortunate to meet many in real life from all over the United States, Canada, and Great Britain! It all happened one comment at a time and I highly recommend it! One comment to let another card artist know how much their art has inspired you leads to a response, which leads to another comment and before you know it, you've made life-long friends who are the kindest, most supportive friends you'll ever have! Mwah! Thank you to all my bloggie friends!
Challenges
~~~

I'm turning this over to Ruby, who I've been friends with since her first comment on my blog on January 16, 2015! Her talent and her blog are never-ending sources of inspiration! If you haven't met her, you are in for a treat! The same goes for the other ladies in the HOP! I hope you bookmark Ruby's post to return to it in the days ahead so you can meet all these new friends! You'll be blown away by their artistry!! Congratulations, Ruby!

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡
Welcome to my Crafting Anniversary 2-Day Blog Hop! This hop is epic with more than 70 guests and over $1,000 in sponsored prizes! Not only are we celebrating four years since I first discovered cardmaking but also crafting in general. This industry is made up of wonderful individuals who are creative, inspirational, kind, and incredibly supportive! Hop along so you can learn about why we create and how much joy it brings us!

GIVEAWAYS
In celebration of this anniversary, we have several amazing sponsors. Let’s thank them for their generosity! Winners will be randomly selected from comments left on all the blogs. The winners will be announced by Wednesday, September 5 on this page. Winners will have up to 2 weeks to contact Rubeena at ararerubycrafts@gmail.com to claim their prize before another winner is selected.

Studio Katia - $50 gift card
Hello Bluebird - $50 gift card
Altenew - $50 Gift card
Pinkfresh Studio - $30 gift card
Gina K. Designs - $50 gift card
Clearly Besotted - $35 gift card
Simon Says Stamp - $25 gift card
Spellbinders - Card Kit
Jennifer McGuire - $50 Simon Says Stamp gift card
winnie & walter - $40 gift card
Mama Elephant - $25 gift card
Hero Arts - $25 gift card
Nichol Spohr - Custom-sewn rainbow pencil case filled with brand new Spellbinders' dies
Danielle Flynn - $25 Simon Says Stamp gift card
Picket Fence Studios - four $25 gift cards

BLOG HOP

Darnell Knauss - you are here!
Maria Peters (Instagram)

~~~

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

As always, thank you for coming by to visit the Playhouse and special thanks to you if you take the time to join as a follower! Please let me know you came by so I can be sure and return the flavor!

*Life is too short!

To open the pop-up comment box that let's you jump to the end w/o scrollingClick CTL + Home. Click the Home tab under my blog banner which resets the post. Click Page Down to reach the end of the post. Click Comments and a pop-up box opens. Click "Jump to Comment Form" and wallah, no more car pool tunnel! Mwah! (p.s. If you ask me a question in your comment, please remember to leave me your email address so I can respond. Thank you!)

267 comments:

1 – 200 of 267   Newer›   Newest»
SD pooja said...

I can totally related with what you have shared about cardmaker and crafty friends !!I have been blessed with a whole lot if new creative friends :)
Loved your card for this occasion simple and lovely !

oldpunca said...

Money saving by making own cards? Bwahaha! :-) This is very expensive "sport", but I would never ever change it for anything else. I also made o lot of frendships because of cardmaking. And it means a lot to me.
Congratulation for invitation to the blog hop by Ruby. You've created a wonderful friendship card.
Have a great week!
Hugs,
Sonja

Trina P. said...

I saw your name and you are my first visit. So thrilled to see you are part of this massive celebration! I concur... crafty friendships are the best. I enjoyed reading your story and feel so lucky to have met you, not only online but in person as well! Fabulous card btw to celebrate, too.
Hope you’re recovering well still. Take care and crafty hugs.
💙Trina

Marcia Hill said...

Wonderful card and a BEAUTIFUL post Darnell! Stamping/blogging friends really are the best!! And thanks for the chuckle about making your own cards to save money...bahahahahahah! That was a good one my friend!! Have a great week...hot and muggy for a few more days here in my neck of the woods...guess I'll have to stay inside and make cards!! :0)

Brenda in IN said...

You could not have echoed my feelings about blogging any better. This is a beautiful idea for a blog hop. I've had made so many wonderful friends in blogland with you being the second person to comment on my new blog back in 2013. It is a fantastic community and I'm so blessed to be part of it. The card you made is lovely and just a perfect sentiment for this. I'm so happy to hear Adam is doing well in his brace. I pray for a good outcome for him.

cuilliesocks said...

Aye right...cheaper to make my own!!!!, when I look around at my stash, I'm ashamed of how much money is lying there, could have gone for a year long cruise. However, I don't smoke, drink or go with men...well hubby but he doesn't count lol. I too have met lovely crafting people who have become friends.
Your card is lovely, beautifully designed and gorgeous colours, Kate x

Verhey Family Blog said...

So pretty

Donnalee Boisseau said...

So simple but beautiful! ❤️

Melissa L. said...

Very cool and so unique. Thanks for sharing with us at AAA Cards, Darnell. Hugs, Melissa. (Check out my farm in Instagram if you are one there - you can get their from my blog.)

Susan said...

Even though I float in and out of the card making community, I always take the time to check out your blog! You always give me a chuckle....or sometimes I laugh out loud! Thanks for the entertainment. If I'm having a sad day, I know where to go to get that frown turned upside down! Thanks, Darnell!

Nana Griffin said...

Love the simpleness but loveliness of this card.

Lori said...

Enjoyed reading about why you craft and so enjoyed seeing your friendship card! Love how you highlighted a portion of your card base with Broken China distress and the purple die cut words look great! Such a lovely card!

Mac Mable said...

So enjoyed reading your post Darnell and so glad Adam is coping and crossing everything that he continues to improve and doesn't need an operation. Loved your words about blogging friends etc and couldn't agree more X wonderful CAS card with lovely texture and the most perfect sentiment X

KM said...

The simplicity of the card really makes the sentiment pop. Very pretty.
I'm pretty sure my cards have come down in cost to about $400 a card. Still cheaper than therapy I tell my husband.

conil said...

Well, you card is a sweet tribute to your friendship with Rubeena...I think she's pretty fabulous myself. Love the texture and clean lines of what you did here.
Yes, I thought this hobby would be cheaper, too. And, it seems, we laugh about that in the same way.
Glad to hear Adam is dealing with the brace. Crossing my fingers that the prognosis is good going forward.

Cherie said...

Loved your post and your card! The embossing folder really makes it! Had to chuckle........crafting is not cheap! TFS! :)

Pam said...

Wonderful card! Love the embossed background on the linen paper. I agree, save money making cards? That's a total dream--haha!

A.Rose said...

I love when I can do one card for more than one challenge and incorporate all their themes. Well done!!!

ionabunny said...

Yes, bloggy friends are the best and I love your card. Hugz

madhatter said...

Love the card and that embossing folder is amazing. I think a lot of us crafters started thinking it was going to save money. But who knew it would lead to some fabulous friendships. Thank you for sharing.
Tracey.x

Isabel Z said...

You are such a talented artist! Thank you to all for inspiring me to create.

Teri Ann said...

Friends are a blessing, aren't they?
Thanks for honoring yours!

wienerhoneymooners said...

Darnell, it is always a pleasure to see your creativity, HAMMY lil stories, updates of the TWINS, and all the comments and support that you give. You have made so many people blessed in knowing you and your shared encouragement. Thanks for being here and on the hop, and as always crafting on!!!

HUGS!!!
-Kimberly

Liz said...

I loved reading your post with an insight as to what got you into cardmaking. I started with a few sheets of card/paper and a few punches. I thought it was going to be an inexpensive hobby....how wrong we both were! LOL! You're so right about friendships with crafty bloggers, it one of the best things about blogging. Your card is beautiful, such a lovely CAS design. xx

Teri S. said...

Darnell, I can totally relate with you on the "I'll save money making my own cards." My husband said I had to have a hobby when I retired. Little did either of us know what I was getting into, but like you, I wouldn't trade it for a different one. (Couldn't afford to anyway...) lol Love your CAS card with dimension on it. My kind of card! Got a giggle about the Broken China too. Great sense of humour!

JMcKnite said...

Love your card. It's simple yet really pretty and gave me ideas to use with my embossing folders. Thanks.

mumof4 said...

Love your card. Broken china is such a beautiful color.

Karen H said...

Oh Darnell, how many of us card makers can relate to your story of saving money by making our own cards! LOL!! But what a joy is has become for me and a great creative outlet, too. Love your beautiful card. Simple but so elegant in design. Thanks for sharing your talent and inspiration.

Connie said...

Love your card. As for saving money... I became addicted a couple of years ago and may have to morgatge my house!

Sue said...

Hi Darnell, Glad Adam is doing well. Sure hope he doesn't need any surgery. Sending heaps of positive healing thoughts his way.

Blogs and groups sure opened up my world to wonderful friends and inspiration.

Hope you have had a good start to the week. Sue

Esther Asbury said...

What a fabulous card! I love the clean-and-simple design! So pretty!

Unknown said...

Wow so interesting I love this community because it builds people up from all different types and backgrounds. it's a hobby/job that makes others happy and that is a great thing. 😍😍😍 Thanks for sharing

Jan in Tucson said...

Your card is really cute and thanks, I will enjoy my day! You too!

Nancy Penir said...

Oh my goodness, Darnell, your blog post tickled and I had to comment. Came through Color Throwdown, where your card is right above mine, and saw your name, and well, you know the rest. 1st off, lovely friend card, with the fun, fun bg die. And just to let you know, our past with the world of cards is so similar. Thought it would be a good way to save on cards. The hook stuck, and the NBUS stack seems to have a life of it's own! Love, love, LOVE your posts, and have enjoyed every visit. Continued blessings with our shared craft!

Mary Holshouser said...

Love the cuttlebug die.
The card is elegant.
I got into paper crafting
through Stampin' Up and
I've been with them for
11 years. But I love
seeing all of the other
companies (and I don't
restrict myself to SU).
thanks for sharing
txmlhl(at)yahoo(dot)com

Joanne Hoffmann said...

Aren't crafty friends the most giving and wonderful peeps that you have met? I find that we can share, create, and inspire all the time. Love your card!!

Leslie Miller said...

Not only do you have a beautiful card, you have a beautiful story, as well. I love the premise of this blog hop. My address book is full because of stamping and all my cards find a home. I'm happy to have you in my book, Darnell!

Pia S said...

With all the monies spent on paper craft items I can never afford buying a readymade card again. Not entirely true, but it’s what I live by now:) how great to learn about how other people ventured into this hobby. For me it started with buying a Magnolia magazine. The idea of coloring was a bit terrifying at first, and it’s still not my favorite part of cardmaking, but I enjoy the whole process, when papers, bit and pieces are turning into a card. Your card is super and fits the intended occasion, nice textured look.

Nikki said...

Great card, thanks for sharing.

Raga Senthil said...

So simple and unique!! Love it. 💕❤️👌

jimlynn said...

Darnell, I LOVE the embossing on this card! Wow!!! So pretty with the linen in the background. Just beautiful my friend!
Lynn

Nandini said...

This blog hop is the perfect example of why so many of us get hooked to this hobby! I just love the love and encouragement this community provides. I love the card you have made. It is just perfect for the occasion!

Tracey McNeely said...

Beautiful card for Ruby's Blog Hop and a lovely post about the friendships that you have formed with both pen and in real life because of this addiction...oops...I mean hobby. Awesome use of a stencil and sketch and predetermined colours! I will see you at the hop tomorrow!

Mayras Designs said...

What a wonderful blog post and card! I enjoyed reading your journey into carmaking!!

Hugs&Blessings,
Mayra

Sam B said...

Your post really captures why so many of us love our crafty blogs and bloggers, and this hobby in general. I've made some wonderful friends thru my papercrafting obsession (and I think many of us initially thought we could save money by making instead of buying cards...can you say delusional, LOL??)
Love your card and your story; thank you for sharing it with us!

Linda said...

Darnell, what a fabulous card you have created and wonderful story about how you started. You are such a wonderful friend to so many people. We all love you and your stories. Glad to hear Adam is getting better.

QuilterLaura said...

Love your card, so pretty and creative!

Kelly Parker said...

WOW!! your card is awesome and so elegant!! thank you for sharing.

The Lady Cage said...

Love your story and your playhouse!!!!

luluvision said...

What a wonderful story of crafty friends! Thank you for sharing your fabulous card and being a part of this blog hop!

Becca Yahrling said...

Had to read your post twice before I got the 'broken china' reference. lol Cute card. And I thought the same thing about saving money by crafting my own cards! HA! Well, it's much more fun for sure. :-)

Unknown said...

Love your card, especially the embossing folder you used, such a pretty design.

Carole said...

Lovely post Darnell...and a lovely card too. i feel honoured to have been a part of the gang in the UK that got to spend time with you...great friends and memories....through good and bad times. Thank you xx

Mimi's Craftroom said...

What lovely card and such a lovely post. Thanks for taking the time to share.

Lura said...

Probably everyone in the history of cardmaking has started with the mistaken idea of saving money. $50,000 plus later I can attest to the fact that you had better have a better reason. =^..^= I don't even have a great many friends to shower with the results but it has become my passion. Or maybe I'm just a hoarder. Anyway, I thought that wash of Broken China was inspired and makes the card!

Pat Gasko said...

What a great card. Love the design and those two words says it all.

Sue Smith said...

You are one lucky lady with your wonderful play house !! I envy you :) The simplicity of your card is delightful and I love it. TFS

Carol H. said...

Yay Darnell! Was so happy to see your name in the blog hop list!! Loved reading your card making story! Your card is so pretty! Love the simplicity and elegance! Hugs!

MadeByMeghanK said...

Thank you for sharing your story! What a beautiful card and a wonderful friendship!

Kathleen said...

A super card Darnell, great EF and love the colours.
Glad to hear that Adam is in good spirits and like you I really hope all will be well with no surgery.
Well I think most of us thought that making cards would save us money and to be honest I feel it did in the beginning but as the hobby grew so did the greed of a lot of craft supplies providers.
Have a good week.

Kath x

L Williams said...

Lovely card! It's so nice to see the crafting community come together to celebrate Rubeena! Thanks for sharing this inspiring card and your story! ~ Lenice

Susie Sonnier said...

WOW! Awesome Card!

Lori said...

So pretty, Darnell! The Broken China wash behind the sentiment is fabulous. Thanks for joining us for this week's Color Throwdown!

CoolPaperArt said...

A very nice CAS piece of art!

Rose Mary Smalley said...

Oh Darnell, you are a kick in the pantaloons!!! LOL....and hey...beautiful name Darnell...but it makes me think of the moving that Jennifer Lopez was in...called Enough....and her husbands hooker was named Darnell.........still a very pretty name....Ok...now on to this blog post....I am so happy that you were one of those nice crafters who is so crafty along with being whitty......it is so much fun being here....I too love Rubeens’s beautiful artistry.....it is so nice to see the wonderful support to celebrate her....I love it...
Big hugs to you my dear Darnell....sweet lady!

Dayna said...

great card! fun use of embossing folders

Barbara said...

I love the style of your card. It is beautiful.I also love the kindness of those who make cards and the fun it brings to all!

Christine said...

Love your humorous post and your pretty card! It's hard to believe that I started stamping to use up scraps from 12x12 album paper and had only one stamp set because "that's all I would need".....You ALL know the rest of the story. :)

Teri Wilson said...

Gorgeous card! Love the colors.

sharon g said...

I like the simple look, and limited colors. NICE

Cyndi said...

Very pretty card. I love the embossed sencil background.

Redanne said...

So pleased that Adam is doing well and fingers crossed for good news!

This is such a lovely blog post Darnell, you have summed up your blogging 'career' so well and I concur with everything you say, blogging is such a wonderful way to make lasting friendships.

Your card is gorgeous, I love the embossing, it stands out so beautifully in white! Huge hugs, Annie xxx

Janis said...

Crafty friends are THE BEST!!! Love your pretty card, Darnell. The texture and fresh colors are just fabulous. I want to run my fingers over that wonderful background. Hope I don't cut myself on the Broken China!
<3 J

jwoolbright at gmail dot com
HerPeacefulGarden.blogspot.com

Debbie Rumpza said...

I love your card and I love seeing a blog I have not seen before! Fabulous work!

Joy Meadows said...

Love this card, Darnell! And, I can so relate to the "saving money" story. My NBUS grows larger every day. Your blog is so much fun; I follow you but don't comment. thanks for giving me a good laugh today.

zehra said...

So wonderful to make friends through what u love. Great card.

Cat Craig said...

Beautiful card Darnell. Love the embossing on the linen base great textures at both levels.

Linda M said...

Very pretty card! Thanks for sharing it!

DGolly said...

This is such a fun blog hop. Great ideas and wonderful comments about Rubeena.

Dana M said...

Perfect card to celebrate friendship Darnell! Beautiful colors and design. Wonderfully subtle but impactful details. Love it!

Carol L said...

I love the card you made, and I so relate to the feelings shared here today about bloggers! They're some of the kindest people I know and you can include yourself among that group! It's been great getting to know you :) HUGS

Tracy Hawkins said...

Such a pretty card . Yes this crafting community is the best I agree! Love that everyone inspires and encourages each other! Wonderful to see so many crafty friends along this great hop too! Great way for Ruby to celebrate with everyone! Xx

Denise Kitts-Wadlow said...

What embossing folder is that??? I've never seen it before! Really cool card and love the funny about the idea of hand made cards being cheaper! I nearly laughed myself to death over that one since I mistakenly made that assumption too! Lol!!! I think a good many papercrafters started out with THAT thought! Ha! TFS & Have a blessed day. Send me a note about that embossing folder!

Diane Louise J said...

You have created a beautiful clean and simple card, thanks for the inspiration.
Diane Lousie xx

Lisa Elton said...

I have always admire your way with words Darnell. I love what you've written here about our blogging community and the importance of comments and the wonderful friendships we've made. I'm blessed to call you one of those very dear friends. Your card for this celebration hop is just wonderful! I like the wash of blue in the background, it's very eye-catching!

Becky Reeder said...

Love your card and your comments. Crafty friends are the best!

Janelle said...

Lovely card- and glad to have found your blog! Thanks for the giggles and the beautiful inspiration! :)

Lindsey said...

Beautiful! Love the panel of blue highlighting the sentiment and flowers. I too have a great circle of sweet friends through this craft, starting with exchanging messages on Splitcoast Stampers, then through blogging. Who'da thunk it? :)

Danielle224 said...

Wow this card is so beautiful!!! I love reading all the stories of why people started crafting! It's such a welcoming friendly industry, and I am so grateful to be a part of. Thank you for the inspiration!

MelissaF said...

Beautiful card, and I agree that the online crafting community is so supportive and talented! Thanks for sharing your talents and inspiring others.

Cynthia Cole said...

Such a fabulous friend card!

Patti Bailey said...

I loved this card!!! Thank you for sharing!

McStamper said...

Love your pretty card. Great background.
(Gilda)

Jodie said...

I love the simplicity of your card. I also like how you incorporated the color throwdown challenge in your card.

Kelsey Thomas said...

So cute! :)

Kirsty Vittetoe said...

So happy to see that you are part of this fun hop, your card is fun and gorgeous Darnell!

Swift Creations said...

Such a sweet card to celebrate a wonderful person.

Deb Selby said...

Great blog hop with an interesting variety of cards and projects. A lot of fun.

Mary said...

What a sweet friend you are and I got a nice chuckle reading about how making your own cards will not cost much money. I really like your very nice card!

ljcasselman said...

Wow! I’ve never seen a design like yours before! It’s on my list to CASE.

Cheryl W. said...

I agree that blogland friends are fantastic. I love that we have this medium whereby we can connect and share our cardmaking fun. Your card, BTW, is great. The embossing adds so much texture and dimension. Hammy did an expert job on the winking, too.

Jennifer said...

I look at store greeting cards all the time and think "I can totally make this!" LOL hundreds of dollars later...😂

Rubeena I. said...

You had me cracking up about saving money on making greeting cards. That's EXACTLY why I got into cardmaking. LOL!!! Oh Darnell, I am so happy to know you from my early crafting days. I remember you being part of my bridal shower blog hop. You are so sweet and kind and thoughtful. I will never forget your kindness. I love your card and you. Thank you for celebrating with me, my friend!! Hugs!!!

Shirley B said...

Love the card and the commentary. I'm still smiling even with car pool tunnels.

Denise Bryant said...

Pretty card! Love the texture! Had to laugh at your comments about cardmaking! Thanks for celebrating Rubeena's crafting anniversary with this awesome hop!

Cheryl Robertson said...

When I first started making cards I too thought oh I’ll save so much money buying this and that. Well, 20 years later you can imagine how much money I have saved! Lol!
Congratulations Ruby and thank you Darnell for another wonderful card and post.

PatriciaD said...

Yeah, as others have said not exactly a money saving hobby, huh!!

KandA said...

A really fabulous card Darnell and you are so right about blogging being more than crafting with such wonderful friendships being made along the way. As for making your own cards to save money...... ha ha ha ha! xx

kiwimeskreations said...

Money saving hobby - yeah right, as we say here in the Antipodes! How delooshuned we were... more like money spending.
So glad you had Hammy's help with the winking - he is an exspurt, and your card is gorgeous, Darnell!
The friendships are priceless, and I treasure them so much!
Blessings
Maxine

nwilliams6 said...

Great card, Darnell. You are so right about the friendships in crafting. Great inspiration too - you are ALWAYS full of inspiration. Your posts are awesome and fun as are your cards.

Heidi G. S. said...

Love the card.
I'll have to give that challange a try. Thanks for sharing.

Beverly Perdue said...

Loved your story about your crafting journey. I have been crafting about 10 years and I love it! It is so fun to get ideas and even though I don't have a blog I feel like many of the designers and bloggers are my crafty friends. Your card is awesome. I love the textured background how you highlighted the sentiment!

Marianne said...

How lovely to see you taking part in this festive blog hop, Darnell. Love your QACAS card. I do love this crafting community, and I would not be at this point in my creative journey without the internet, inspiration and fun challenges out in blogland and online crafty friends cheering me on.
Marianne x

Holly Mahoney said...

I loved reading your post and you gave me quite a chuckle. Beautiful card.

Linda said...

Gorgeous card and a great blog post. I totally agree .... craft friends are the best friends ever!! Love and hugs xx

Wendy Lambert said...

Awesome card! I haven't really made too many cards yet but I laughed at your comment about how much cheaper it is. I have been collecting supplies for about a year and I haven't even made a dent in my wish list.

Ros Crawford said...

Oh yes this community has brought me much friendship and happiness and I'm blessed to call you my friend and had the opportunity to meet up with you. I could go on forever about how it changed my life ...

Wonderful card and I'm so happy to hear things are going well for your Grandtwin!

~amy~ said...

Darnell, your card is perfect, love the dry embossing and your color combo.
You are fabulous, I bet you hear that all the time but I wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed your post. Thanks for the inspiration to get back to commenting again...this summer has been so busy and I look forward to checking out all the inspiration out there.

Kristie Goulet said...

Such a sweet and encouraging post, Darnell! I love your card, the dry embossing and the lovely color combo! ♥

Jeanne said...

What a beautiful tribute to the friendships forged by way of blogs and commenting. SO happy to hear of your humble beginnings. I daresay a lot of us felt like it would be cheaper to make cards. It may not be cheaper but it is indeed more meaningful in many ways. I thank you so much for your generosity in all ways to making blogging more fun, entertaining and special. Your card is delightful! Hugs!

Em Louise Fairley said...

Gorgeous card, Darnell. I'll do the mega hop later, but in the meantime, please know I treasure your friendship beyond words.
Hugs,
Em xoxo

DJ said...

Such a sweet card and a lovely honor for Ruby. Love the LITS comment, that one's new to me but it is sooooo true!! TFS!

Teresa Doyle said...

Darnell your card is beautiful and thank you for sharing your journey in card making. Your story is the same as mine. I started (was hooked!) in 1999 but soon found SU and magazines until the world opened up to me via a computer. WOW, I soon found a plethora of card companies and bloggers and I have never looked back. Although I don't blog myself I certainly follow a LOT! haha
I have learned a lot from these folks in blogland, Ruby being one of them!
Thanks for sharing your talent today as well!

Bobby said...

I never would have thought when I started my blog about the same time you did that the connections we make would mean so much, Darnell. My idea was to bring a smile to the faces of my card recipients and a good feeling to my heart by sending them. Now my heart is full with the love and support of some wonderful crafters, seen and unseen, that fill my days with joy and creativity.

Rita said...

I like the texture of the background.

Brenda said...

I had to laugh at the comment of making homemade cards cheaper Auntie! I laugh because we all thought that I think!!! I started off making cards on the computer with card programs. Of course we make these fabulous friendships (some of us get an Auntie to boot!!!) and get enabled along the way too. What could be better?! It's cheaper than therapy right?! lol On the plus side again, it keeps us healthier because of the friendships we make as we have found out that friendships keep us healthier just as laughter helps us to lose weight. Hummm, I guess I don't laugh enough. lol Now, I just need to get around to meet up with all my fabulous friends. Your card is so beautiful Auntie! I love the Broken China swiped on, the embossing and that sweet little flower. Such great combinations and then you added that wonderful sentiment. I love this card and love that Hammy had to wink it up! Soon gotta go to work, but hope to come back and check out the hop as well. Hugs, Brenda

Macimbalo said...

Oh Darnell, I love your card and reading your blog posts! You always bring a smile to my face with your wit and humor. This is a great hop and your card is full of inspiration, as usual! Hugs!

Gloria said...

Simple yet stunning card.

Lily said...

Love your card and writing style! I am new here but definitely will come back to read... Yeyy

Unknown said...

Beautiful card! I love how you combined the different challenges to make it.

Deepti Aggarwal said...

Hello Darnell...I love your blog so much..love how you write your stories..and love your friendship..you are such a kind soul... LOve this beautiful card.. A big hug to you..

OH Babs said...

Love the card and the embossing folder. Glad Adam is on the mend. I wrote a message a minute ago and it did not appear, this has happended previously. Hugs, Barb

Cindy said...

Love your card!

Cindy G. said...

What a wonderful story you have. I love reading about how crafters got started on their journeys. I right now am still a lurker around the websites. I just have not had the courage to push the button yet! All the same excuses- not talented enough, not enough time etc... But one day it will happen. Love your card and thanks for sharing your time and talent.

Bonnie said...

What a beautiful CAS card, my friend! Love the pop of the yellow flowers and the dry embossing over the strip of stenciling! And you my dear are a fabulous friend!!! xoxo

Kim Faucher said...

Love the linen background! Simple and elegant!

Kelly Griglione said...

DARNELL!!! I always love visiting you : ) Ah, good old 2011 ... what a great year to start a blog, eh? You were one of my first bloggy friends and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Our community is just the best. Lovely embossed linen card. It sure was wonderful to stop by!

Jean said...

Such a pretty card! This is a wonderful hop filled with inspiration!

Rema DeLeeuw said...

Lovely card! Love the cool background!

Dee Earnshaw said...

love the texture you added to this lovely card:)

Unknown said...

Beautiful card with such unique texture!

Glittered Paws said...

Such a beautiful clean and simple. The little bit of blue just makes the card. Love your blog.

Linda Carson said...

Such a delightful and cheerful card for this blog hop occasion!

Lagene said...

Awesome card! I love the effect of the color being applied before dry embossing! Congrats to Rubeena!

Crystal said...

I got into card making out of sheer boredom. At first, I thought I'd try scrapbooking since my husband is a photographer. After making a couple of albums to showcase his work I was once again bored. Then I heard about a card class that met once a month. Of course it was Stampin Up And I fell hard!! I've been a demo several times but only for the discount! Your card is lovely and your sentiment is perfect for this blog hop. TFS.

Verna Angerhofer said...

Your card is so gorgeous! I love the embossing folder and great colors. And, yes, I tried to tell myself I was saving money. Maybe at first I did when I only had a dozen or so stamps to choose from to create my cards but since my collection is now in the thousands and then owning dies besides and all the investments into machines and other supplies I know that is no longer the case. But at least it is my own money I am spending and not my hubby's. He fishes and I make cards. Congratulations to your friend too and she has a great blog hop going on.

Patti H. said...

Love, love, love your gorgeous friendship card, Darnell! I love all your awesome cards & loved hearing your story. I don't have a blog yet but feel as if I know people from reading theirs. What a great community out there in blog land. Illness in my family now so not much time for much but reading about these wonderful ideas. Maybe next year???

Andrea said...

I love when people comment that I must save money by making my own cards. I suppose I could if I stopped buying goodies and just used up what I already have ... but what fun is that?! I love your card with the bold purple sentiment and bright yellow flower. Thanks for being a part of the hop!

Unknown said...

Love the card!

Carol Rossouw said...

Congratulations to Rubeena! Love her work. And what an amazing group this crafting world is to sponsor such wonderful prizes. Love your card inspiration too!

Susan said...

Lovely card, Darnell, but more importantly, I loved your post about friendships through blogging! Without blogging, I'd never have got to know and meet you! And what a pleasure it is! And I also have to add thanks to SCS for connecting me with Loll, Christine, and Nancy. Definitely new life-long friendships formed through our craft!

Linda W. (ScrappinBari) said...

Gorgeous card, Darnell - just love all the texture & the sweet flower!!

Unknown said...

Thank you for sharing your talent. Love this card. It's nice engaging with others who understand my love of the craft!

nancy littrell said...

I Loved your Fabulous Friend card and Story, my friend. Like you I started stamping to save $$$...hee, hee because at that time (20+ years ago) I was making 80 Christmas cards and needing cards often because of family, friends and work. I totally agree, the friendships we have made over the years are such a huge, wonderful bonus!

I am off to check out Rubeena's party. Love and Hugs

P.S. meeting you and Hammy IRL at our BC Retreat was Glorious, Dolly:-)

Sue D said...

Very pretty design. I enjoy the crafty friendships I have made.

Joan V said...

Lovely friend card. I go in and out with blogging. Life just gets in the way. But, I enjoy reading blogs and get excited over many card creations.

Handmade by Hanneke said...

Not only did I think I'd save money, I also thought I'd save time (No special trips to the store to buy a card, etc.) Wrong on both counts! But I love the process of making cards, as well going on the internet to see everyone else creations. It's been very inspiring. Thanks for sharing!

Buttarcrafts said...

I had a peek into your playhouse. What a wonderful crafting space to call your own! Love your sense of humor...broken China bits getting in the way...hahaha. Thanks for sharing your enthusiasm and creativity

Mirella said...

What a lovely post - this community is truly special, and I am so happy to be part of it myself! Hahaha i think a lot of us thought that we would save money by making our own cards... I was one of these suckers, too, LOL!

Psychomak said...

I love friends cards. They can be sent any time. thank you.

Barb Gallagher said...

Loved the card - simple and beautiful (like good friendships)!

Wanda Cullen said...

We had similar backgrounds in how we started with papercrafting and yes...I'm laughing out loud at the "saving money" concept! Boy oh boy...I don't want to think of the money in my craft supplies, but it's still a lot cheaper than my hubby's old car restoration hobby - lol! Your card is fabulous with all of its texture! Thanks so much for playing along with us at Color Throwdown!

Card Happy One said...

I'm just in my infancy in cardmaking starting just this year and this is the first time I have stumbled across your site...I will definitely be back!! I'm totally crushing on your playhouse...you lucky, lucky girl. Love the simplicity and texture in your card!

Laurie said...

Love the texture on “Fabulous Friend” card!

papercrafts by Cindyellen said...

i like the card. i like the way you write. i love your playhouse. i think you should come play in my craft room too!! check out my blog - i think we write in a very similar vein )the big one that runs down your left leg)

Martha Herrera said...

When I started making cards, I thought that Stampin UP was the only stamps out there. Boy, was I wrong!

Thanks for sharing your story, and your beautiful card.

Betty said...

love reading your story, Darnell - in the past 20 years I, too, have met (maybe not in person) and made wonderful friends thru this fantastic world of cardmaking!

Lynda said...

What a lovely and fresh card - totally loving the colours, too. :) Loopyloo

Lindsay Dickason said...

Thank you so much for sharing!

CandyraeT said...

I really like the texture on this card!

Arlene said...

I love how your card turned out! It's still CAS in design, but the colors you chose brighten it and draw attention to the sentiment.

Karen @ Misplaced Mojo said...

Add me to the list of fools hoping to save money making my own cards. Oh, I'll just get 1 stamp set and an ink pad... yeah, right! Kudos to you and Ruby for blogging too! I started a blog, kept it up about a year to enter challenges and such, and realized how much work was involved between writing, linking, editing pics, not to mention the crafting itself. I couldn't imagine being on a design team, especially being forced to use certain supplies by certain dates. My mojo don't take orders like that! Now if I could just figure out how to balance my time checking out what others make with actually making things myself!!! Love your writing style, always makes me smile :-)

Stephanie said...

Your card has nice texture and a lovely sentiment :)

Karin B said...

Fabulous card!

Nikil65 said...

Love the background on this card!

Alice (scrAPpamondo) said...

I totally agree with your thoughts about blog friends!!! Congrats for having part in the blog hop! Your friendship card is a delight, as well the second one!
So glad to hear tha your grandson is going well! :)
Have a fabulous rest of the week!!!

Karthikha said...

What a wonderful card!! Love the textures :)

Unknown said...

Cute card

Cassie said...

save $$ with homemade cards (roflmao).
very cute card!!!

Pat said...

It's so lovely to hear about your cardmaking journey Darnell, and congratulations to Rubeena on her four year blogaversary. I think we were all under the impression that making our own cards was going to save us money, and I've given up saying that now to my hubby as I think even he doesn't believe that any more...lol. I love your card with the beautifully embossed background, and the lovely large die cut sentiment and prettily coloured flowers go really well...a gorgeous card. I'm so pleased that Adam is coping well with his neck and chest brace and fingers crossed that when it is removed there will be nothing further to do. x

Karen Letchworth said...

Thanks for sharing your story, Darnell. I think the best part of being in the blogging community would be all the relationships we build. Sure, it's always great to see the amazing art everyone shares (and your card is really cool BTW) and it's awesome being inspired by others. However, the very best part for me are all the friendships I've formed. The blogging community is so generous, and we're all lucky to be a part of it. Thanks for taking part in this special celebration.
Blessings,
Karen
www.karen-mycuprunnethover.blogspot.com

MaryH said...

Applaud all you said about how rewarding Blogland is, for making good & precious friendship. It was intriguing to learn you'd started blogging in 2011. With all your followers, I thought it had been longer. Your card artistry, plus your phenomenal writing skills - makes yours one of the best-est blogs around, and all of us love to visit, laugh a little, and enjoy something delightful. And this is a super CAS card with lots of color, texture and FUN! So glad to hear Adam is mending well, and hopefully will need no surgery. Now off to visit Ruby. Hope you are feeling well also! Big hugs &TFS

LittleSher said...

Any friend would love to receive that beautiful card.

Celeste Goff said...

What a gorgeous card Darnell! Love the beautiful colors and texture!

Jeanne Beam said...

Such a beautiful card.
Thanks so much for sharing...

Kristina H said...

Such a beautiful card!

Laura Tree said...

Thank you sponsors for this super-hop. And thank you for the info and inspiration here! Very cool...

Cheriese said...

Gorgeous card - love that linen card base!

Anonymous said...

Great CAS card! I love the embossing! I know that Ruby will love getting it.

Show Us The World said...

I love your card and it is so nice to hear that you have met so many crafty friends!

Miriam Prantner said...

Quick and CAS cards are the best! Love the swiping of the distress ink and your bright flowers!

Chris Casey said...

This is my first blog hop and it is so fun! Love your card!

Kathy Ferguson said...

Thanks for giving us some background on how you started. I must say that your Playhouse is spectacular! I would love to have a special place to create. Your friendship card is lovely. I love the embossing folder and colors you used. Thanks for sharing so much with us.

Tracy B. said...

Lovely cards but your story is very heartwarming. This community of crafters is such an inspiring & gracious group and I'm really enjoying reading the stories & seeing the awesome show of support in everyone's work that's being shared.

mindy1414 said...

Thank you Darnell for joining in Rubeena's celebration, now I have another new blog to follow and get inspiration from and that always makes me happy. Thanks for sharing about your life and crafting, it's always nice to hear what's up. I am so not new to crafting (50+ years at it - dang, that can't be true LOL) however I am new to papercrafting/cardmaking/mixed media. Boy have I been shocked by what all is available, what can be done, how it's all done and most of all so much inspiration! This does so feel like a big friendly, crazy, fun, family of crafters that are always quick to share, help, and inspire. Of course I am now following your blog and Pinterest and oh, by the way... it's nice to meet you LOL guess I should have said that first! Thanks Ruby for bringing together so many old and new friends with your amazing celebration of what we all love so much! (mardy14@bellsouth.net).

Vikki H said...

I'm getting so old that I can't remember if I commented on your card. I adore the texture, the bits of broken china and that sassy sunny flower! You're a ray of sunshine and encouragement to so many of us! Thanks, Darnell! Hope all is going well with the recovery of you and Adam.

Helen said...

It's always great to check out your creations, Darnell! Lovely CAS card with lots of impact. Thanks so much for sharing!

Lynne in NI said...

Great card! I started crafting to make my sisters wedding invitations and save her a few pennies, didn't reckon it was going to cost me hundreds and hundreds of ££'s 15 years later! (Well worth it though!)

Gerrina said...

May what a lot of comments! Hope you read this one :)
Thanks for the great way you discripe the wonderful blogland and part of the web I also tipped my toes in in 2011...It is so wonderfull to get inspired and get to know other crafters who like to get inky fingers and try new techniques and share that all with us. I never thought that making a blog and publish some things on it would lead to getting to know fellow-crafters from all over the world and find friends that I would never have met if I hadn't start with my blog... It still feels like a warm bath and I still get excited to see new people join and enjoy...Glad I found you this way!(Not so glad is my portemonaie; my crafting budget is spent every month :) )
I love the texture of your card and the fresh colours!
Will be sending you a card soon again... Hugs, Gerrina

GigerVamp said...

Such a beautiful, simple design. It's so easy to get carried away and keep adding more, but this card shows that keeping things simple can be more effective.

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