MAIL SWAP JANUARY 2007: Winter Wonderland

[webchyck]

Well, our Vintage Christmas theme was our most popular yet! So many signed up that we had two very nice sized groups! Thank you so much, everyone, for making our swaps a huge success this year! The connections we've made, the art we've received, the fun we've had! Wow! Sure is something to look back on and give ourselves a pat on the back for!

So, are you ready for a new theme? I know we did the Winter White theme on the Rolodex swap, but not everyone does both swaps, and I just wasn't quite done with the whole winter imagery thing, wanting to play some more with snowflakes...so, our theme for January is Winter Wonderland!

So, send me an email (webchyck@comcast.net)with the subject: JANUARY SWAP. Please include your name, mailing address and email address (for you veterans, just reply to this thread saying you're participating...I have your info...unless it's changed). You have until midnight Eastern on January 7th to sign up. On the 8th everyone who has registered will receive a list of all the other artists with whom they will be trading. You will then have until January 31st to create, print, and mail your artist trading cards to the other participants. (Keep postal rates in mind before you sign up as you are responsible for mailing the cards yourself. If we have enough participants in a particular country, we can group them together, otherwise it will be an international endeavor.) Each swap group will have no more than 9 participants (including yourself). You may create one ATC based on the theme and replicate it for everyone or you may create nine unique ATCs to send out. You may also use any combination of paper and digital you like for this swap.

If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to ask. We do have a lot of information about Artist Trading Cards (http://www.digitalartquirks.com/forum/../articles/article_atc_becky_march2006.htm) in an an ARTicle in our Resource section that might answer any questions you have.

Okay, so let's get those creative juices flowing after our busy holiday seasons. Share your image of a perfect winter wonderland...or if you really hate winter, let your ATC reflect that! (I can hear some of you now..."Winter Wonderland my ass!" LOL!) Can't wait to see what everyone comes up with!
__________________

[graybonnie]

sign me up captain

[webchyck]

You got it Miss Bonnie of the Gray Dogs!

[ruthpics]

I had so much fun participating in my first swap so you can definitely count me in for this one! :)

[DeniseD]

Snow in So-Calif, lol. Sign me up! :)

[Rikki]

Me, too, please.

[webchyck]

You've got it, girls! Look at that...less than one day and we're up to six folks (I have a standing order to add Carolyn every month!)

[happyrobyn]

Winter???!!! OK! I guess that'll be ok! :) I'm in.

[Diginellie]

Yes you can sign me up again for sure, I so enjoy receiving all these lovely cards in the mail. I don't know about Winter Wonderland though, maybe it will make me feel cool. I am just about to go outside and pick a whole bunch of different coloured hibiscus to arrange and photograph. Our garden is looking stunning right now. Tomorrow we are off to the beach. This will be a challenge for me:)

[cdvcreations]

I would love to join in...I sent a email with my info

[PamPie]

I'm signing up!

Really, winter wonderland is exactly what's outside my window tonight--2nd dump in a week (very rare!)--brrrr, so I should be extremely inspired :eek:

[graybonnie]

PAm... how much snow did you get today (Thursday)?

[digime]

I am just about to go outside and pick a whole bunch of different coloured hibiscus to arrange and photograph. Our garden is looking stunning right now. Tomorrow we are off to the beach. This will be a challenge for me:)

quit rubbing it in Helen! How about snowflakes falling on hibiscus? You could do a fantasy winter thing! Have you ever had snow there...ever seen snow? I can see how this one might be difficult for you.

Sign me up too Becky!

[Nevermore]

Mainly because I have had a very difficult time with this swap. It has consumed me. I am not thrilled with my final card but I either have to mail it out or have this hanging over me for the New Year and I don't want it hanging! I had a brilliant quirk card along the lines of a Raven in a pear tree but did want to do the vintage one. I also wanted to mount on ribbon a la PamPie but not sure I am going to be able to swing that for this one. I haven't even written to everyone to thank them yet--I just felt so bereft not having mine done.

Well, the story ends because I have to finish up. My first object lesson of my theme for 2007 which is trying to find a little balance. My cards are not perfect but they were done with all my DAQ friends in mind.

I did find some gorgeous paper to print it on and have even downloaded the colour profile for my printer (this is real canvas, so beautiful) so having a nice texture cheers me up a bit.

I also found the perfect little embellishment for it but I only have 6 and there are 8 in the group not counting me.
So 2 will have to have a less than perfect embellishment. Ahhh, it is hard indeed not to push for perfection! Have to dash out for work and visiting but will have them all done tonight.

Then I can get ready for January!

Strange, she muses, how I have been so silent this swap and have done nothing but fret about it. The fretting is over, the fat lady is singing.

[Pixeldigger]

Winter wonderland sounds like fun, count me in

[Chinook]

Yup - count ME in too!! Can't wait!

[webchyck]

I believe I've got all the newest names: Cassandra, Robyn, Helen, Pam, Kate, Judy and Karen. I'm not exactly sure, after reading Kim's post twice...if she is signing up for January or not. She mostly seems to be fretting about December's swap, which time and time again I tell you people to NOT do, and yet you do it! I'm going to put her down because well, truth be told, I love pushing her envelope for her! LOL!

So, that's 15 so far! Invite your friends!

[Mish]

I'm in Becky...sending you mail now!

[Nevermore]

do sign me up. It is true, I was fretting about December. But as I type, they are lined up like little soldiers with all of their backs adhered. Just need to do the envelopes and I am done! They won't get mailed until the 2nd but at this point, I am sure no one cares.

I got a card from Robyn but she is not in my group (that is actually a question and not a statement). I am going to assume she just threw it in the mega post I got from her that included a Christmas Card and the November ATC. I am not trying to be mean but I only have enough for my group. I will have to send Robyn something nice to make up for it.

I don't mean to fret, Becky, honest, I don't. But it does seem to me that the cards get better every single month and I am just not improving that quickly. I am whining less but that is not commensurate with increasing skill. It is more like stoicism in the face of life. I am accepting my crookedy cutting, have forsaken the corner punch for now (it won't go through my canvas anyway) and am going to ram them into normal sleeves come what may. Tis true the xyron backs kinda overlap the fronts so they will be sticky if you play with them. I am SHRUGGING and saying, so, don't play with them. :p

[mizamigo]

for your corner punch... Have you taken the "bottom" cover off of the punch area? If you turn the punch upside down, there should be a piece that comes off so that all the "trapped" doo-dads come out of the punch. Well, just take that piece off of the punch and when you do your punching for the rolodex cards, turn the punch over so that you can see where your "dexxie edge" is placed in the punch. That should help to give you a nice, neat corner on your dexxie.

I sure hope this is a new suggestion for you. I really do NOT want you to feel intimidated by all the low-tech stuff out there. (And maybe I'm the only one here who likes to read your so-called whingeing; because I think you have captured my feelings about some of this stuff perfectly.)

[webchyck]

Robyn's not in your group, Kim...you are under no obligation to send her an ATC...she was just being HappyRobyn...you know...probably a little tipsy from the rum-spiked egg nog and not keeping her groups straight!

As far as round corners on ATCs go...they are not required! The only rule is 2.5" x 3.5". They could be pieces of bark painted with berry juice if they were 2.5" x 3.5"! LOL

[Nevermore]

Thanks for the tip; however neither of my punches will allow bottom removal. I do try to clean out the paper bits after each punch but I am finding that the crux of the matter is the alignment of the paper in the punch. The punch has "guidelines" but using them assumes a perfect square, right angled paper is about to be punched. Therein lies the rub because these papers have been cut by the Raven! So, I have to "guess" a bit and often this guess is slightly off and thus the chewed up edges on my ATCs.

To be frank, the Dexxies are not as much of a heartache. They are mass printed and I have prepared resized full size pages for them (ie, six or eight on a page) so a mis step is readily corrected. The problem with rounding the ATC corners is that at the point of rounding, I have spent a lot of time adhering the backs and cutting them out. I don't mass produce them (although, with my history I probably should, lol) as I usually use very expensive paper. Now that I am getting a bit more experience under my belt, the process has been speeded up incredibly (I use a Xyron now which helps! and always make sure that the backs are not upside down--) and I probably could make more than I need and toss the ragged edge ones and even send out ones to people not in my group :)

I am not discouraged at all, never fear. I am just getting around being a titch intimidated by the cards I have been getting. Interestingly enough, my family is behind me on this one and supportive! Must be the competitive testosterone kicking in and the idea these things are traded== they really want me to do good cards and their involvement is kind of sweet. They scrutinise every card coming in and going out!

[webchyck]

Just a reminder, there are only three more sleeps until our deadline arrives for the ATC Swap Sign-up! Get in while you can...we've got 17 on the list so far!

[mizamigo]

I'm going to sign up for this one, Becky.

I need some "winter" - its January in Florida; but the temp outside right now is 81 degrees. So, I'll have to get my creative hat on and see what I can come up with. It's definitely going to be an interesting ATC.

[webchyck]

Folks, we're nearing the deadline here for the January ATC Swap. I will be sending out the lists in the a.m. We currently have two groups of 9...way to go! So impressed with your dedication to this swap! We have three new folks, too! Should be a lot of frosty fun coming your way this month!

[Nevermore]

Chomping at the bit a bit, have already done mine and printed it out for a test run. Tweaking is DEFINITELY in order but will not be the last one over the finish line for this round, lol.

[akissling]

OMG!!!! New year, new image perhaps! Almost done???!! I am GREEN with envy!

[Nevermore]

Truthfully, the last swap was the only time I missed the deadline. Looking back on December, I am not sure how I survived! Anyway, turned out way too pale when printed (time to calibrate again!) Needs punching up! But at least I have a clue where I am going! Vintage Christmas had me stumped.

[webchyck]

Okay, I'm sending out the emails in just a few...this swap registration is CLOSED! Let the chit chat commence!

[Pixeldigger]

I just printed mine out - hmmm, half of it looks great, but the other bit almost vanishes, so I shall have to re-jig it. This has been a difficult one as my creativity is taking a break. On the other hand, photoshop creative didn't just print my berry picture, but also a mezzotint of mine which I sent in just to show I had done more than one of their tutorials, so I was surprised and delighted to see it in print. I got in a plug for Kim and DAQ and that was printed, too.

[Pixeldigger]

I just printed mine out - hmmm, half of it looks great, but the other bit almost vanishes, so I shall have to re-jig it. This has been a difficult one as my creativity is taking a break. On the other hand, photoshop creative didn't just print my berry picture, but also a mezzotint which I sent in just to show I had done more than one of their tutorials, so I was surprised and delighted that I have had two creations in print.

[webchyck]

How very cool, Judy! Now, how does one get hooked up with Photoshop Creative? Is it a British pub? Online? Did I miss something in another thread?

[graybonnie]

Judith... saw you berries, but did have time to read the article. Just picked up the last issue at Barnes & Nobel over lunch. Great magazine.... Becky...you can find out more about this publication at http://www.pshopcreative.co.uk/flashindex.html

[happyrobyn]

No clue what to do on this one. Guess I'll meditate on it a while and see what magically happens! LOL!

[Diginellie]

I'm going to sign up for this one, Becky.

I need some "winter" - its January in Florida; but the temp outside right now is 81 degrees. So, I'll have to get my creative hat on and see what I can come up with. It's definitely going to be an interesting ATC.


Yay finally another quirk who is living in a warm climate :cool: Welcome to the group and yes we will have to work real hard at this one - as I type I have the fan going on the floor beside me and I think its in the high nineties outside and verrry humid. I have done my card though, just have to print and then get going on all that cutting and glueing. :)

[Nevermore]

I just printed mine out - hmmm, half of it looks great, but the other bit almost vanishes, so I shall have to re-jig it. This has been a difficult one as my creativity is taking a break. On the other hand, photoshop creative didn't just print my berry picture, but also a mezzotint of mine which I sent in just to show I had done more than one of their tutorials, so I was surprised and delighted to see it in print. I got in a plug for Kim and DAQ and that was printed, too.
Get out of town! You are kidding! Good stuff Judith!

[DeniseD]

Congrats Judith! I will look for ya.

Such a cool mag - thanks for the link Bonnie. I keep telling my hubby I'm gonna subscribe, lol.

[DeniseD]

Forgot to add, we wore shorts to the park today!! Might have to stick head in the freezer for inspiration. :)

[Nevermore]

And gave me gift certificates to Michaels for my birthday! Looks like the Xyron is going to get tanked up again! I bought some stuff for my card including some cool crystal beads but when I took them out of the packaging, they are curved because they are really for making jewellery so I think I will have to sew them on. Yes, I said that. In case you didn't hear me, let me repeat, SEW them on.

I don't know why I am such a big fan of this site because you are all making me absolutely crazy.

[mizamigo]

I don't know why I am such a big fan of this site because you are all making me absolutely crazy.

Well, I can only imagine that you like a challenge - be it small or large or artistic. So, why do you quesiton that? Just go with the flow and enjoy creating these masterpieces. You know you would never have "gone there" if we didn't make you do it.

I really think you need to change the "nevermore" to "evermore".... Ok, just kidding on that one.

[Nevermore]

I repeat, I said SEW. I take my buttons to the tailor to be put on. Wonder if they would do my ATC cards?

Yeah, you are right Victoria, especially on the name retraction :)

And I haven't posted it yet but my Quirkle Journal theme will be birds. Any kind. So get quirkling and happy warbling while you do it!

[mizamigo]

And I haven't posted it yet but my Quirkle Journal theme will be birds. Any kind. So get quirkling and happy warbling while you do it!

YEAH! Now I'm off to do some research on birds... thank you - you have made me so very happy now.

[Mish]

Don't worry Robyn...you aren't the only one who is completely stumped on this one. I am stalled! Probably because it's still freakin' 50 degrees here in January??

I hope someone comes up with something! Maybe I'll buy some of the fake snow you can spray on windows, and just spray it on cards and mail them out. WAY creative...but Nevermore would like it...if the spray came from Michaels!!

[Nevermore]

I have done this one about three times but it just isn't printing out the way it looks on screen. It is not a case of monitor calibration (I got a Pantone calibrator for Christmas), it is just an instance of the digital version actually having more depth and texture. But I decided to go with the last version anyway. Not every piece can be anguish and artistic despair, right? Right!

I did try a couple of different photo papers to see if that would make a difference and it did to a slight degree but nothing major.

I also used glue dots instead of sewing. Ah, I am so coming to terms with my limitations, lol.

Mish, don't get me wrong. I don't actually LIKE Michaels, I am just fascinated by it. Right now, it ain't much colder in Toronto.

[mizamigo]

Ok, I have to confess... my snail mail ATCs are in the mail. I just posted them today. I'm not saying they are super terrific; but I've never done this before so they are my stake in the ground. You guys on my team are getting them. Like them or not, you are stuck and I guess I'm the first so every one after has got to be better, right??????

Also, I don't know who to contact, but Becky, if you are listening in... please change my title to "glitter queen"....

Now, if only Miss Kim "Nevermore" would expand on her bird theme for her quirkle journal....

[Nevermore]

MizAmigo, I posted a little in the quirkle journal spot. Essentially, any bird of any kind in any style but please make it 8 x 8. That is it. I have no other thoughts on the matter. I wanna see what the quirks come up with! And congrats on getting yours in the mail! My fronts are printed out, my enclosing card insert is done, I am just about to print them. Guess I better do a few backs and drop them in the mail!

[Rikki]

I received Pam's card today.

Thanks so much, especially since I'm not in your group. It is lovely. The icicle and the borders look awesome. I also like how you did the back including the credits, too. I need to think of a way to do that.

[akissling]

Becky, I received your card today! It is beautiful, especially to colors! Thanks! Meanwhile I am still playing around with mine!!!!

[digime]

My January ATC is in the mail! I'll miss the February swap, but will be back for March. I'm having to admit here to maybe having just a slight problem...that maybe it's become a bit of an obession, because I'm just a tad upset that I won't be a part of the February exchange...but life has to have some balence.....I guess.

[cdvcreations]

I received a beautiful card from becky today! Thanks so kindly I love it. It is beautiful to look at being here in FL. I am hoping with this January Swap if I stare at these winter cards maybe in my mind it will feel 10 degrees cooler outside. LOL


Also mine went in the mail today!

Thanks
Cassandre

[PamPie]

Miz Victoria, the Glitter Queen--Your card arrived today, and I think it's pretty cute! Thanks :cool: I now have sparkly silver glitter that sprinkled from the envelope upon opening scattered about ;)

One question though--I found a loose snowflake in the envelope, and wanted to know if it is to be attached, or if it was meant to be loose just for fun. :o I don't want to randomly stick it on there if it's not to be!

[graybonnie]

Brrrrr Becky... your card arrived today along with a cold wind and dropping tempertures. Everything now seems right with the season... although a foot of snow would be prefect! Becky... great card!

My cards are printed and assembled, but won't make the mail tomorrow :(

[Diginellie]

Hey Pam I received your card today. Abeautiful breath of icy winter fresh air. Thank you so much. A stunning photo too :)

[webchyck]

Glad to see my cards are making their way across the country. Unfortunately the two that were to go overseas have not been mailed yet due to needing to get to the post office. Well, one of them actually did get put in the outgoing mailbox by mistake and made a roundtrip back to my mailbox since I didn't have any postage on it. Got mixed in with my U.S. envies! Should be able to get to the PO tomorrow.

[mizamigo]

Miz Victoria, the Glitter Queen--Your card arrived today, and I think it's pretty cute! Thanks :cool: I now have sparkly silver glitter that sprinkled from the envelope upon opening scattered about ;)

One question though--I found a loose snowflake in the envelope, and wanted to know if it is to be attached, or if it was meant to be loose just for fun. :o I don't want to randomly stick it on there if it's not to be!

Well now, see what I meant about this being my first one and my not really knowing what to do????? [I must say, they might be worth a fortune in a few years, as I imagine that this will also be the LAST real-life project I do. I think I may stick with digital from now on.]

Anyway, sorry about the glitter all over; and yes, the big snowflake is supposed to be attached at the bottom left.

Glad to know the postal system is working properly, though.

[Pixeldigger]

Thanks, Victoria, I got your card this morning. My snowflake was still attached (she says, smugly)!

[mizamigo]

Thanks, Victoria, I got your card this morning. My snowflake was still attached (she says, smugly)!

Wow, that was quick, Judith!

[akissling]

I have no doubt that I will be dead last in this event but I promise I will do them!!

[Nevermore]

Mine, too, came with snowflake attached so despair not! Pam, I got that cool Icicle too! Loving 'em ladies.

[PamPie]

Well now, see what I meant about this being my first one and my not really knowing what to do????? [I must say, they might be worth a fortune in a few years, as I imagine that this will also be the LAST real-life project I do. I think I may stick with digital from now on.]

Anyway, sorry about the glitter all over; and yes, the big snowflake is supposed to be attached at the bottom left.

Glad to know the postal system is working properly, though.
Oh goodness :o --I hope you know I wasn't complaining - no need to apologize for the glitter--I certainly don't mind it making my place a little sparkly! I will reattach the snowflake as you've indicated--thanks again for your cute card--I hope it's not your last real-life project...

[Nevermore]

Victoria is saying that this may be her last real life project but we know (evil laugh) that she has been bitten by the vampire. She may not know it yet, but we do. It could be that the poison hasn't fully spread through her system so she thinks she still has some say in the matter. I have no doubt that she will ask to be on February's list when she is unable to deny reality anymore.

Victoria, please know that we will all be here for you when you are ready to face your addiction and we have already reserved a spot for you in the swap list. It is okay if you can't deal with this right now. It takes a while to get used to the idea that you are now a hybrid, that you have one foot planted in both worlds. Feel free to post about it, we have all heard it before but we want to provide as comforting an environment as possible for you while you adjust to your new way of life. We won't give you any false hope (there is no cure and not even any current research into a possible cure) about getting over it but it is not terminal (we may change that statistic if I use my drill on my next paper bag album) and you can learn to live with it.

[mizamigo]

I noticed on "another" forum that our Miss Kim aka Nevermore is considered to be a POE-ETTE. Becky, can't you change her title to that here at DAQ or is that too "normal"????

Pam, no, I didn't think you were complaining, but since there were no rules and I have never heard of those card insert thingies, I still don't know what they are and I sure didn't even think that the glitter would fall off the card and litter-ally fall out of the envelope all over the place. Ah well, I should have realized that it would be so since my mini-craft roomette is sparkling still from the aftermath of 8 glittery ATCs. Did you all guess that my ideal winter wonderland would be glitter snow and fake snowmen outside my window?

Kim, you are evil! Sucking me into these IRL ATCs with your merry adventures to Michaels and fomenting ideas about xyron machines. I actually found a "mini" cheetah xyron machine at Wal-Mart and I did (yes I admit it) buy it for the next go round. Now, you have to explain that inserting card - or whatever the heck that thing is so IF (notice the big letters and the scarey thought behind it) I ever decide to "do" glitter again, it may well be contained and not go flinging itself from envelopes to engulf unsuspecting recipients.

I haven't received any ATCs yet, but am awaiting them with baited breath. Unknown discoveries and A-N-T-I-C-I-P-A-T-I-O-N are the keywords for the day.

(P.S. I was looking at Nicole's "Pimps" and Becky's "Meets" today and was thinking that all those porn threads really did spark some "SANE" creativity from our DAQers. You go, girls!)

[graybonnie]

Victoria, You are not alone being sucked into Nevermore's Michaels adventure. Several months ago I bought a "mini" cheetah xyron machine. My tip for you is to lay your ATC card on wax paper so if you miss the edge of the card you don't have to worry about cleaning of the glue. The first time I used my cheetah I wasn't thinking and ended up laying several card fronts down on the adhevise that had some how gotten on my cutting board. To say the least that entire batch ended up in the trash...LOL.

[webchyck]

I just don't have the power to change user titles, but I'm looking in to how to make it so you guys can change your own!

[mizamigo]

Thanks for the tip, Bonnie, I knew there had to be a "catch" to it somehow.
And knowing me, I would end up with glue all over the place anyway. I'll leave my waxed paper in my craft room just for that occasion (since I don't remember the last time I used waxed paper for anything.)

And Becky, it really doesn't matter about the titles - I just thought it was very creative of Kim (or whomever) to do the "Poe-ette" thing.

[graybonnie]

Pam...thanks so much of thinking of me :D ... I'm really enjoying your little bit of Colorado blizzard. Love the fact you included the credits with your backside information.

I'm very interested in learning what you printed this ATC on? It feels like a plastic or vinyl material.

[webchyck]

Yep, you CAN change your user titles now, quirks! They have to be quirky though or I will ban you just like I'm banning all the spammers from the .ru domain!!!

[Nevermore]

MizAmigo, in our first DAQ naming ceremony I picked Raven for my name (hmmm.) Kygirl called me Keen Raven. Our first Rolodex challenge was to create a "calling card" and I titled mine Keen Raven, Poe-ette to try to bring all my names together under one umbrella. I have been nudged several times at SBG to change the automatic username and I couldn't come up with anything at all. I had to review my gallery, noticed the Poe-ette and thought it was better than a sharp stick in the eye. Now I need to do some kind of avatar since I am also being nudged about that. Sigh. I will probably just use the neat Raven stamp Chinook made for me. It has become my "signature" piece and so far, Karen (Chinook) hasn't lodged any complaints. Glad you like it.

The sleeves that you put the cards in have been the topic of numerous interesting posts. I must warn you that many of them end up focussing on urinating in back alleys. You will have to find the old threads (!) it is too long a story to repeat but the sleeves are sold by Sports Card Trading Stores. They are not too difficult to find as it is big business. You can use anything you want. I have used Glad Sandwich Bags although Becky claims that this is not the best solution. There are even kits you can buy to print out little cunning envelopes to wrap them in (Maya has a set at SBG). So, you can skin the cat many ways.

It appears from the stories that slip out from time to time (no names, GrayBonnie) that I am not the only person to go head to head with real life scrapping and lose. I am getting better at it. But I still have moments of complete stupidity. As I posted on another thread, this time around I cut my finger. I mean, there is the card in one hand with the finger holding it clearly visible. And yet I kept right on cutting. I even asked myself, "Did you just cut your finger?" that is how stupid it was. My next thought was to make sure that the blood stayed off the card. No body parts actually got extracted. I can already hear the comments: Kim, the fingertip was not attached to the card. Is it supposed to go on it or was that just a throw in adornment?

[Chinook]

Pam! Your ATC was in my mail box today -- YAYAY!! Thanks - wonderful photo, and I really like that it is of side. Also the colourizing of the photo. And hey - a STAMP on the card! ;-)
Cheers
Karen

[Chinook]

Oh, and I wanted to mention that I got mine mailed out this week.
Cheers, Karen

[mizamigo]

Pam, I got an icicle, and it's not going to melt in Florida! I love the way you encased the ATC - do you have a machine for protecting them? Thank you so much. Now I'm even more excited about getting more ATCs... I would camp out at my mailbox; but we don't get our mail until late in the afternoon, so I guess I'll have to think of making QJs until it's time to get the mail.

[DeniseD]

It appears from the stories that slip out from time to time (no names, GrayBonnie) that I am not the only person to go head to head with real life scrapping and lose. I am getting better at it. But I still have moments of complete stupidity. As I posted on another thread, this time around I cut my finger. I mean, there is the card in one hand with the finger holding it clearly visible. And yet I kept right on cutting. I even asked myself, "Did you just cut your finger?" that is how stupid it was. My next thought was to make sure that the blood stayed off the card. No body parts actually got extracted. I can already hear the comments: Kim, the fingertip was not attached to the card. Is it supposed to go on it or was that just a throw in adornment?

ROFL, In college we had to matt all of our projects & it was so expensive to do at a store. I was trying to cut mats at home, on the floor, with big box cutters and rulers. I cut my fingers so many times & REALLY badly that I shudder when I think of it! Is it the price to pay for art, or are you clutsy like me?

[DeniseD]

Becky and Pam, I received your cards and thank you so much. They are gorgeous and may have brought the cold weather to SoCalifornia. Next time I will not tease about about wearing shorts. Brrrrr!!

[webchyck]

I should go check my mailbox! I don't think I got the mail yesterday! Who knows what might be in there!

[PamPie]

Pam...thanks so much of thinking of me :D ... I'm really enjoying your little bit of Colorado blizzard. Love the fact you included the credits with your backside information.

I'm very interested in learning what you printed this ATC on? It feels like a plastic or vinyl material.
My backside information?! As in my rear, my hind end, my tush?! LOL--I try not to draw attention to it... :p Hee hee...

Poor me does not have a printer, so I upload my ATC's to a local photo shop to print and I always select a matte finish--so it's just regular ol' photo paper. Anyway--glad you like it!

Pam, I got an icicle, and it's not going to melt in Florida! I love the way you encased the ATC - do you have a machine for protecting them? Thank you so much. Now I'm even more excited about getting more ATCs... I would camp out at my mailbox
Usually I use the cheapo plastic sleeves (100 for $1) found at a sports card shop, but this time around I found the hard plastic sleeves (the encasing), and thought they would work just fine since I added no dimensional tidbits this time around!
I hope more fun things arrive in your box soon--it's sooo much better than the bills and ads...

Pam! Your ATC was in my mail box today -- YAYAY!! Thanks - wonderful photo, and I really like that it is off side. Also the colourizing of the photo. And hey - a STAMP on the card! ;-)
Cheers
Karen I thought you might like the J2Kishness ;)

I received Pam's card today.
Thanks so much, especially since I'm not in your group. It is lovely. The icicle and the borders look awesome. I also like how you did the back including the credits, too. I need to think of a way to do that. I made a few extras and thought I'd surprise you!

[akissling]

I received Cassandra's ATC today and it is TOO CUTE! I dig her groovy boots! Thanks so much!

[graybonnie]

Pam... is your local printer a photo shop or the local Walgreens? Still can't believe that your icle is on matte photo paper.

[PamPie]

Pam... is your local printer a photo shop or the local Walgreens? Still can't believe that your icle is on matte photo paper.
Bonnie--it's true! :) Wolf Camera (http://www.wolfcamera.com/) is the place. Walgreens will only do glossy (online upload) and I prefer matte...

[graybonnie]

Thanks Pam for the website!

[graybonnie]

Cassandra.... your lovely ATC reached my cold and chilly door step today... very cute!

[ruthpics]

Thanks Pam! Your card is awesome! Love everything about it, from the photo to the framing! Well, my Winter Wonderland collection has begun! Anticipating my daily walks to the mailbox! Mine were mailed on Tuesday, so should soon be reaching a mailbox near you!

[webchyck]

So glad I finally went and checked the mail! Not only did I get my most recent issue of Creating Keepsakes, but I also got two ATCs! One from Pam (not in my group...but don't tell anyone...she slipped it to me under the table); and one from Cassandra! They're both delightful! I always love vintage fairies, so Cassandra's had me smiling. And the icicle...bRRRR...that makes me want to go put some flannel jammies on!

Thanks for sharing your art with me!

[Nevermore]

I sent my cards out on Tuesday--can't believe no one got them yet!

[Rikki]

I got two cards today, too. One from Cassandra. I love your fairy and the background with the numbers. And one from Ruth. Great idea to incorporate an ice hockey player. And love the little addition to the title. Thanks for swapping.

My cards came back from printing today. You'll be glad to hear that the size seems to be right again for a change. I'll get them ready next week.

[PamPie]

Helen, your card fluttered its way into my mailbox today--thank you so much!!

[Chinook]

OMGosh, Pam ... I'm still reeling from the fact that you don't have a printer!!!!!

(jaw hanging open).

I'd never make it!


Cheers
Karen

[cdvcreations]

Thanks.....I am so glad everyone has enjoyed the card! Thanks for all your lovely comments.

-Cassandra

[DeniseD]

Cassandra - thanks so much for the card - the blending is great & the numbers were a great addition. :)

Ruth - loved your blending, had to show hubby since he is a hockey fan. Thank you. :)

[Pixeldigger]

Nevermore and diginellie, Thank you, your cards are wonderful. I love the colours and Nevermore's quote is perfect.

My cards are sitting on my table, waiting for me to be able to get to a post office. I have labyrinthitis now, so can't go on my own.

[cdvcreations]

I got all kinds of adorable cards today! I got one from graybonnie which I can relate too being in FL this is too cool! Great job!

I got one from Ruth Davis....LOVE it! What kind of paper is this on? It almost looks shimmery. Or did you add something?

And then I got cards from Carolyn M. Goble. Great job as well! Thanks! I really like the Jan calendar.

Thanks everyone!

-Cassandra

[mizamigo]

OMG! I cannot believe it. My husband just got home from our mailbox facility (don't ask) and he looked me in the eye and said, "What in the world is going on? You got so much mail!".

Well, I just received 5 ATCs and haven't opened my envelopes yet, because I want to sit and savor every one of them. So, I'll post later; but I just wanted to say, WOO HOO! I got a lot of mail today!!!!!

[Nevermore]

I got a magnet, two ATCs and a refund from Revenue Canada! Certainly NOT expecting the latter and last time they gave me money it was a disaster and I ended up owing it back plus interest so this is one gift horse I am looking in the mouth and up the oh never mind...To make it a little interesting, I have to confess I have read the letter five times and have no clue whether they are sending me $2000 or $4000. Honestly. I absolutely cannot understand a single word they are saying except "We will mail the refund to you later". It would be too much to expect them to pop the check in the envelope, I guess. I can't even plan what to do with it since I don't know how much it is going to be but part of me (the evil part) is saying that even in Canada Adobe Illustrator is not $2000 so I have it covered. The good mother part of me is thinking college tuition/the bad part is thinking let the kid get a paper route. Why all this mother stuff? Why, because I am not done my flipping quirkle journal or magnet. To work, to work.

Yes, the ATCs, oops forgot. Ms. Aiken and Kate Iredale. The Canadian contingent is coming on through (why on earth would Judith in England get my card before anyone else? Puzzled.) Ya both just prove that Canadians know winter! Lovely cards, both of them and I do appreciate the butterly / snowflake tag and the gorgeous card. I know Kate is communing with the chickens so won't read this.

If I have caught Karen's eye and she bothers to read this far :D , Karen do you mind if I use the raven stamp as my Avatar?

[webchyck]

Wowza Almighty! What a mail day this was! You girls rocked the box today!!! And I just have to say, we are all getting the hang of these ATCs, aren't we? I definitely see how far we've come since last May...we're getting the size constraint; our embellishment is SO FUN! Not that anyone's previous ATCs sucked, I'm just saying this month we've got some AMAZING artwork, you know? Very impressed.

So, what did I get in the mail today? First, A beautiful scene from Karen! Love the loose snowflakes and the brushwork around the edges (and thank you for the cute tag...I think it will make a great bookmark!) I got Bonnie's summer beauties dreaming of Winter...cute idea! Love the stroke marks around the girls! I received Ruth's hockey card...such great blending and amazing brushwork! Love the "just add ice" sentiment! Cute! Carolyn, of course, outdid herself. I don't think she reads the forum, but weren't those delightful cards? I love her calendar concept...she's going to make one each month with our theme. And the snowflake attached to the window! Oh my goodness...too cute! And of course, the snowglobe...adorable. And last but not least, Kim's amazing winter scene with the Dylan Thomas poem...such a wonderful depiction of the sentiment of the poem...and look at that pretty gem embellie!

Great job everyone! I'm just tingling with delight!

[Nevermore]

Becky, I have to agree with your thought that they just keep getting better and better. And that is definitely NOT to say that they have not always been great, just that they keep getting better! I HATE it when we have two groups and I don't get all of them (greedy little piggy here!). Will just have to wait until Feb. 1 when (hopefully) everyone posts them in the gallery.

Love your layout of Meg B, how great is that? And I am going to get that black kimono paper!!!!!!!!! Sorry Debra. But it is worthy, honestly.

[graybonnie]

Caroline.... what a treasure trove you sent me!!!!! I can't even take it all in during the first viewing, but thanks bunches!

[Chinook]

WOO HOO!!! Happy Mail today!!!

Thank you to Mizamigo, Nevermore and Kate. Oh, what wonderful ATC's. Each one of them. All so different - I love that we can each put a different spin on the same theme.

I'm going back to look at them again, and oooooh and aaaaaah.

THANK YOU so much, everyone!!

Kim ... if you read this far (grin) YES you can use the Raven stamp. There are 2 of those digital stamps out there, you have one and I have one. I'd be thrilled to see it used in your Avatar.

Cheers,
Karen Aicken

[mizamigo]

I can't say Thank You loud enough. Oh my, I've got my ATCs all lined up and still can't take my eyes off them. Each and every one of them is delightful, spendid and amazing. Not only the ATC itself; but the wrappers that came with them. (I'm getting the hang of this now - so I'll know what to do next time - believe me, no more "glitter-ati all over the place"!) I love looking at them. I can't believe that I see more and more each time I look at them. Blending, photos, attachments, etc. What a lot of talented women! I am so happy I signed up. Thank you, thank you.

[PamPie]

Bonnie, I am delighted and amused by your card--so fun! Thank you :)

[ruthpics]

I got one from Ruth Davis....LOVE it! What kind of paper is this on? It almost looks shimmery. Or did you add something?
-Cassandra

Glad you like the card Cassandra! I printed it on Premium Plus HP Photo Paper, soft gloss. I didn't add anything to it. It is my favourite paper to use, but not always in stock. Got to grab it when I can.

[Nevermore]

Mizamigo, I thought the same way during my first swap. Every time I got one I would say "ohhh, next time I'm going to" and "ohhh next time for sure I will". It was very inspiring! I still haven't done all the things I want to. Good thing there is no such crime as Grand Theft Card because I would get convicted!

[Nevermore]

This is the first time we have put all our exchange notes in the forums (we used to email) and I really like it a lot because now I can hone on both groups discussions and I don't miss anything. Miss Nosy wants to know :)

[ruthpics]

Cassandra, thanks for your card. It is beautiful...love the winter fairy! Thanks so much! That makes card number 2 of my collection!

[PamPie]

This is the first time we have put all our exchange notes in the forums (we used to email) and I really like it a lot because now I can hone on both groups discussions and I don't miss anything. Miss Nosy wants to know :)
This girl is curious too ;)

[graybonnie]

Ruth...great card and glad to see the player is sporting black and gold since they are the home colors for the NHL Pittsburgh Penguins - closest professional hockney to us... LOL. Thanks for sharing the tip on the soft gloss...love it!

[ruthpics]

Ruth...great card and glad to see the player is sporting black and gold since they are the home colors for the NHL Pittsburgh Penguins - closest professional hockney to us... LOL. Thanks for sharing the tip on the soft gloss...love it!

Glad you like the card Bonnie. The hockey player is my son during his first year of playing the sport!

[akissling]

I received more cards today!!! Thanks to Ruth, Caroline and Bonnie! I love them all! Bonnie, I laughed and laughed at yours!!! Caroline, you out did yourself!! I love my trio! Ruth, Hockey night in Canada was our favorite night when we lived in Seattle! Thanks to all!

[graybonnie]

Ruth...I live very close to our community park and always smile when I see the little kids rushing to the rink, I hope your son is having big fun.

Hey Alsion... you can relate... have we even had winter yet? Just since Sunday have we had cold weather, snow and ice.

[Diginellie]

I received Kate's card yesterday - just exquisite Kate, then today came Kim's and Victoria's wonderful cards. Kim I love your poem - my personal favourite poet is Rilke, as you say it all just resonates with me, I must create something with Rilke's poetry soon. It is really terribly hot and humid here right now (fans and air conditioners going full pelt) so these cards are like a cool blast of fresh air in all this sticky humidity :)

I love to look at my `ATC Collection', I have them on a coffee table so I can see them often. I am collecting all my overseas stamps now to use in a collage to decorate an album cover. It is great to receive mail that is not `official', so rare these days :)

[Pixeldigger]

Karen, thanks for your lovely card and for the tag, which is now hanging from my anglepoise lamp. I love that quote.

Kate, you nailed this one for me. I love asian art and formal haiku in particular. This is one of my all time swap favourites.

Does anyone know where I can get these little plastic envelopes for my cards in the UK? I haven't been able to find any. I will be visiting the US (Washington) in April if you can tell me which shops I need to get some.

Thanks everyone,
Judith

[graybonnie]

Although I haven't picked any up yet, I have been checking an eye open and have found plastic selves in my grocery store, Walmart, Kmart. They have been located with the baseball trading cards.

Judith, are you just going to be in D.C. or out in the suburbs? I can probably help point you if you can give me a clearer idea of where you are visiting. Washington is one of my favorite cities and I normally get to travel there at least once a year for business. If spring comes on time you may get to see the Cherry Blossoms in bloom... oh so beautiful. You will love all the museums. Traffic is a pain but taxis are available. Hope you are feeling better!

[Pixeldigger]

We'll be based in Bethesda for a week

[Marretje]

Does anyone know where I can get these little plastic envelopes for my cards in the UK? I haven't been able to find any. I will be visiting the US (Washington) in April if you can tell me which shops I need to get some.

Thanks everyone,
Judith

I found just this adress of a webshop in Great-Brittan it had all for ATC cards.

http://www.tandastamps.com/acatalog/ATC_Bits___Pieces.html

Hope this is where you searching for.

Regards, Mar

[webchyck]

That's a handy site!

[Pixeldigger]

THANKS! I shall order some sleeves and the next batch I send out will look most professional.

[graybonnie]

We'll be based in Bethesda for a week


I like Bethesda...close to DC but yet not like some of the other beltway commiunities which I guess is because Bethesda is a little older. Lot of nice residential achitecture...great shopping (not the big mall type) and eating. I hope you have a wonderful time.

[graybonnie]

DeeDee...what a charming photo of your mother...something about those little hats and coats always make me smile!

[akissling]

Dee-Dee I also received yours today! Thanks! It is beautiful!!! Sweet little pic too!

[ScrapAlice]

I'm so bummed that I missed signing up for January. With moving house and all, it just got by me.

Is everyone going to post a copy of her ATC in the gallery? I love looking at them there, too, because I honestly have to take them to my magnifier to enjoy the details.

Getting the cards in the mail, though, is the most fun part to me. I've always loved snail mail surprises!

Has the theme for February been announced?

[PamPie]

Dee Dee--your card arrived Thursday--thank you :) Your mom was just darling--beautiful card--love the wood framing, back and front!

[cdvcreations]

I got a card from Dee-Dee thanks. I love it. SO cute.

[Rikki]

It was like Christmas today, I got 4 letters and even more cards, thanks to Carolyn.

Got Becky's. I loved the little snowflake and the fonts you used for the title.

And Dee-Dee's. What a cute picture of your Mom. Adorable.

And Bonnie's, When I see those girls, I'm even more freezing than I am already, LOL. What a great idea to colorize them in that way.

And Carolyn's: I loved them all, but especially the calendar one. Thanks so much.

Mine are still not ready to be shipped, but I can already say that you will be very disappointed, when you expect something like a winter wonderland from me :) . I was at a total loss as to what to do since I've already used up all my winter wonderland creativity with the rolodex swap. So I went for something a little less wonderland-y. They should be on their way by Monday.

[webchyck]

I'm sure it will be wonderful no matter what, Rikki!

I received Denise's (Dee-Dee) card today...oh wow! That is so sweet! Love all your background work! Thanks!

[ruthpics]

Thanks Becky for your beautiful card. Beautiful blue and love the doodled snowflake!
Thanks Bonnie! Love the swimsuit edition! Brrr!
Thanks Carolyn for the bonus pack! Lovely surprise! All 3 cards are wonderful!
Thank you all, these are terrific works of art that I am so pleased to have in my growing collection!

[Mish]

Hi ladies...

I have been so used to emailing that I have been forgetting to check in here at the forum! I'm so sorry I've been out of the loop!

I have received several of your beautiful cards so far. I don't have them in front of me, so I'll grab them and post again later.

I am printing mine out today, so Group 2, you should have them in the next week or so.

[DeniseD]

Thanks so much ladies. I sent one off to my Mom to surprise her. :)

In the last couple of days I received Bonnie's card, what a hoot! Love the girls and how the suits are colorized. Thank You.

Carolyn, thanks so much for your cards. I love the window, how it's 3D. :)

[PamPie]

Kim, I discovered your card in my mailbox Friday--I wasn't going home at that time, so I opened it at the next stoplight--really not good light to see a card by, but I tried again when I got the the next stoplight--I just wanted to enjoy it right away, you see. But this morning, I got a proper look at it in the daylight (it also happens to be snowing big fluffy flakes today so I felt in the winter wonderland setting)--I like it. I really like the green especially. Thank you for including the full stanza of the poem in the notecard too....

[Nevermore]

Glad you liked it Pam. It gave me a few problems but I got a blog column out of it and I guess that is all that matters, eh? You don't do our Rolodex series or you would have recognised my Rolodex as a card--now, you have to like that economizing, lol!

It is pretty darn cold here right now, hope you have shovelled yourself out from under in Denver!

[PamPie]

Kim, the handmade card was terrific ;) We have dug out here, but mounds of ice and black snow remain, and the potholes in the road grow bigger and bigger. Forget getting stuck in the snow--it's those huge holes I might get stuck in now... :eek:

Karen, your card arrived Saturday, and I feel such a sense of contentment when I look at it--two people strolling in the winter wonderland, enjoying the beauty all around...lovely. Thank you...

[ruthpics]

Denise, your card arrived in my mailbox today! Love the photo of your mother and the framing is awesome, front and back! Thank you!

[Nevermore]

:) From sunny Australia, Diginellie's butterflies came ON a wonderful card IN a wonderful card. Lovely, Helen!

From Britain (no comment on weather, lol) came another wonderful card in a wonderful card from Ms. Pixeldigger.

Thank you ladies! In the midst of a Visa bill, a property tax bill, a mobile phone bill and an internet bill it was lovely to get something free and freeing !

[Pixeldigger]

Hohoho, it has been snowing here as well, though not so much as yet. The temprature is supposed to reach freezing again this week, so we might have more. I have been snuggled in my bed most of the time, flu and labyrinthitis and fibromyalgia have all conspired to zap me, but I am dosing myself well and should get better soon.

[PamPie]

Cyber-soup for ya, Judy--feel better...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v614/pkeflin/soup.jpg

Kate--I love haiku! Love the winter image on your ATC as well as the info included in the notecard--it's wonderful and I thank you :)

[Chinook]

Judy - sorry to hear you've been feeling so awful. Have lots of Pam's wonderful cyber soup and get well soon.

I wanted to thank you for your wonderful ATC. I got THREE envelopes of Happy Mail today, so that more than makes up for the bitter wind and blowing snow we've got going on. I'm especially intrigued by the feathery bits behind the tree oval. Very effective!!! Also, such a pretty note card. Thank you.

Helen - your fluttering ATC made it's way to my mailbox today ... I just lvoe that idea. And I LOVE the photo you used of the frosty branches. Great ATC!!! Thank you. Also - lovely Monet card --- such a treat!!

Carolyn - yours came too, and I love your calendar idea. Super ... I've emailed you as well, as I don't know if you read these boards or not.

Thank you so much for swapping with me, everyone!!!

I will not be able to participate in the February one (bah humbug) but will catch up with you all again in March.

Cheers!
Karen

[webchyck]

Oh, we shall miss you Karen!

[KJ-McLean]

Mailed mine today (post office closed before I got there yesterday).

KJ

[cdvcreations]

I got a adorable card from Alison today. I love it! The colors are great. Thanks

[webchyck]

I got Alison's ATC today, too!Love the glitter!!! Thanks, girl!

[DeniseD]

Hope you are feeling better Judith. :)

Alison, another fabulish card. Thank You!

Do you put glue down, then sprinkle? I love how flat the glue is. :)

[akissling]

Thanks Becky and Dee-Dee. I have a glue pen (Stampin Up! 2-way and Zig Memory 2-way either one works well). It gives me a nice, fine, flat line. I highly recommend them! I really need to branch out from the glitter (as mentioned in my note I am the one trick pony who needs a new trick!) but I do love to add it!

[webchyck]

Don't branch out too far, Alison! I love that trick!

[graybonnie]

Alison....I LOVE your card! Pink glitter...what more could a girl ask for?

[Rikki]

I got Alison's card yesterday. The glitter is awesome. Love it...Thanks so much.

[ruthpics]

Alison, thank you for your beautiful card...love the glitter border!

[webchyck]

Hey, Rikki! I got your card! Some Winter Wonderland, eh? NOT! LOL! Thanks for swapping!

[Nevermore]

KJ, love your Victorian chick, undaunted by the falling flakes. You must be from New Brunswick, eh? And Judith, The red stars are the perfect counterpoint to the soft purple.

[Pixeldigger]

KJ, thanks, your vintage lady arrived today.

[akissling]

Rikki, you card arrived yesterday just in time for our first snow storm! The spining wheel in snow had such meaning!!!!! Love it! Thanks!

[akissling]

One more thing! I really need a new trick!!!

[ruthpics]

Rikki, your card arrived today! Love it! Thank you so much! Terrific image, I was stuck in snow just yesterday!

[DeniseD]

Rikki - thanks so much for your card, what a great image. :)

[DeniseD]

One more thing! I really need a new trick!!!

Ummmm, how about primary color glitter, ROFL. Seriously, love your glitter. :)

[graybonnie]

Hey Rikki... the luftpost has arrived... you have captured the essence of my world over the last couple of days.... love it!

[PamPie]

Oooo--I just received KJ's! It's a fun one--thank you so much :) And I like that you added your photo to the back!

[happyrobyn]

I'm quite positive I am the last one. They are sitting here on my desk. Will be in the mail in 2 days. I have LOVED all of the ones I received. Who knew winter could be so much fun?!

[Chinook]

Oooh KJ ... your ATC was waiting for me when we got home from Mexico. Home to SNOW SNOW and more SNOW, blowing and cold. But I felt just like that lady on the front of your ATC, still dreaming of sandy beaches and palm trees. Ahhhhh.

This one was PERFECT for me --- thanks for swapping.

PS ... loved the angel note card as well. :-)))

Cheers!

[PamPie]

Just today Judy, your card arrived--thank you--I especially like the red stars dangling from the wonderful branchy tree!

[happyrobyn]

Um ... it's not exactly still winter in Texas ... but my ATC's were mailed out today!!! ROFL!

Thanks you to Bonnie, Becky, Carolyn, Ruth, Dee-Dee, Rikki, Alison, Cassandra and Pam for your awesome Winter creations. They have moved from a pile on my desk into their permanent home in my ATC binder. Looking at them collectively sure gives me the chills!!!!

[webchyck]

chills...yuk yuk!

[Pixeldigger]

You guys give me the shivers ... nah, I have another cold after all.