Summer Birthdays

I was always jealous of summer birthdays as a kid. I mean, they get to have outdoor parties - the pool! - and the weather isn't cold and during school they get a special day even though it ISN'T their birthday. Much nicer than fall birthdays. Half the time it's snowing on my Nov. 7 birthday. Yuck!!

Anyway, end-of-June sent 2 birthdays my way: Mother-in-Law and friend Andrea. Here are the cards I made for them.

Mother-in-Law
Stamp Set: Upsy Daisy
Cardstock: Kraft, Rose Red, Pink Pirouette, Whisper White
DSP: Raspberry Tart
Stamp Pads (Classic): Rose Red, Pink Pirouette
Accessories/Tools: Scallop Oval Punch, Wide Oval Punch, Whisper White Organza Ribbon

I love Upsy Daisy and I tried some "rock and roll" technique on it this time. I'm not 100% crazy about how it turned out... I think generally it looks better when the colors are closer together in shade. Maybe if I did Regal Rose and Pink Pirouette, then it'd look more blended...? Anyway, I love how the sentiment in Upsy Daisy fits right in there above the flowers. :)

Friend Andrea
Stamp Set: The More The Merrier, On Your Birthay
Cardstock: Kraft, Rich Razzelberry, Crushed Curry, Whisper White
DSP: None! Can you believe it?
Stamp Pads (Classic): None, but I did use a Stazon and the new In-Color markers
Accessories/Tools: In-Color markers, Large Oval Punch, Dimensionals

Finally! I got to use my Sneak Peek items. I ordered them a while ago, and rush-shipped them for some reason, but only just got to use them now. I am still considering the new In-Colors. I like them, don't love them. IMO, nothing will be as good as Baja Breeze, Kiwi Kiss, Riding Hood Red, and Pink Pirouette! I'm sure I'll use those colors even in their retirement. Anyway, Andrea loves cupcakes, so I thought it only fitting to use this stamp for her birthday card. And who doesn't love the fact that there are now In-Color markers? Sure made coloring in these babies easier!

I'm off to Kansas this weekend... hope I don't melt!