Curt's Best Shots Slideshow

Monday, April 13, 2009

HAPPY BLOGAVERSARY TO ME!!!!!

Hey All! I am so excited to welcome you all to my 1 YEAR BLOGAVERSARY! This is going to be a big post, because there is so much I want to say, show, and share. Not to mention the FABULOUS BLOG CANDY up for grabs! Here it is:





For those of you who didn't get my "photo clue", the photo is the top of one of the Copic markers. This has a retail value of over $150.00! Some of you who follow me regularly will probably guess that these are the markers I won over at Gina K Designs blog. I was so lucky to win these, but honestly, I just can't get the hang of them. I am so comfortable with my cheap colored pencils and OMS, that these have just sat in my drawer unused. I thought that this was just a shame and a waste, and I decided I wanted someone to have them that would really use them. I'm also throwing in a couple of surprises in the box as well so good luck to each of you!

YOU NEED TO READ THIS!

I would really appreciate it if you would read the entire post. I'm highlighting some special people, and expressing my appreciation to all of you who visit me on a regular basis. You are the reason for this blog, and I want you to know that!

The first thing I want to do is to highlight 3 people who I want to thank for their first encouraging posts on my blog when I started a year ago.

Julie Koerber (Out To Impress)

Julie was the very first person to post a comment on my very first post. I still can remember reading that first post and being so excited that she thought enough of my post and my cards to leave a comment! She was so kind, complimentary, and encouraging. I can't thank her enough. I also couldn't believe (when I went to visit her post for the first time) that someone as talented as Julie would even bother with my pitiful little cards, but she did. Click on her name above to see her blog, and then hop over to her SplitCoast Gallery. Some of her cards will literally take your breath away!

Janine Orchard (2bKrafty)

Janine has been a true blogging buddy, posting a comment on almost every one of my posts. Her work is not only gorgeous, but she is so amazingly generous because a lot of the things she posts are things that she is giving people. I have always loved her style, and her coloring is incredible. She is such an inspiration to me. Please click on her name above and check out her work. She is wonderful!

Pat Adam (The Rubber Maid)

Pat is Julie Koerber's Mom and she is certainly one special lady! Pat creates such wonderful cards, but the best thing I love about visiting Pat's blog is her hilarious sense of humor. Reading her posts makes me laugh out loud. Pat has a "no holds barred" approach to her blog and I would imagine to life as well. She is a joy to me. I invite you to click on her name above and check her out.

I have highlighted these 3 because they were the first 3 to leave comments on my blog. They were the ones who made me want to keep creating and to keep blogging. I also went to all of the blogs they had listed on their blogs and that's how I found some of you. And then from yours on to an infinity of talented folks.

Here are some statistics that really blow my mind:

1. My first post. 1 comment - My posts now average between 35 to near 70 comments

2. From 0 followers to almost 50 followers and growing!

3 I receive comments from Canada, Australia, England, Spain, Italy, Romania, South Africa, and many other countries. So amazing to me.

4. Blog hits as of this post is over 20, 800. Awesome!

5. In the year I posted a total of only 70 (with this post).

This has been such a wonderful experience for me and it is certainly been because of all of you. I can not thank those of you enough for leaving me consistently uplifting, smile-generating comments, post after post. You have been so inspiring with your comments and your creativity, and I like to think I consider you friends. I love spending time on your blogs, and I try to visit you all at least once a week. It amazes me that I can feel such a connection to people I have never met. You are truly special to me and I cherish each and every one of you.

OK, enough of the "Oscarish" speech. I just want you all to know that you make my life more meaningful.

Now I have a couple of projects to share and a card. Then I will get on to the deets of how to enter for the blog candy. I made these for my Mom's and Jay's Mom's Easter baskets. You might be surprised what I used as a template for these:







The stamp is a House Mouse stamp (gee, what a surprise, huh?) I love how this little guy is winking and holding those jelly beans. I stamped him in Archival Jet Black ink, and colored the image with colored pencils and OMS. The tulips around the box are a patterned paper from The Paper Studio, and the little picket fence was made with the Martha Stewart punch. I used my Nesties for the scalloped oval. Here is what I used as the template for the boxes:



Funny, huh? Every time I would buy these, I would think "this is such a great size for something." So I "undid" the box and taped it to card stock, traced around it, and cut it out. I had to alter it a little bit because the front flap is designed to be on the outside, and I wanted it to tuck in the box. The neat thing about this box is that you can open it by pressing each side of the box at the same time. It pops open like magic.

The next project is my famous candy bar sleeve with the faux belly band.





I don't know who the stamp is by or the paper either. I stamped and colored it with colored pencils and OMS and mounted it to the band with foam squares. Here is a pic of it unassembled:



My last thing to show you is my card. Forgive me for another HM stamp, but as you know, I got a new bunch of them and I just have to use them:





I loved this image the minute I saw it, and thought of so many sentiments that could go with it. I use two different CB folders for the embossing and of course colored pencils and OMS.

So, there you have it. Here's what you need to do to to enter the contest for the blog candy. Simply leave a comment here on my blog. For those of you who have been my long standing followers, I will enter your name twice. To find out if you are in that group, just look to see if your blog is listed on the side of my blog, or if you were signed up as a follower of mine as of yesterday. But remember, EVERYONE must leave a comment in order to have at least one entry. Every one else who leaves a comment will be entered once. I will use Random.Org to draw the winner. Since my Blogaversary is April 14Th, the person who comes out in spot 14 on the list will be the winner! Good luck everyone! You have until Midnight (EST) on April 20TH to enter. I will post the winner on April 21ST.

Well, thanks for sharing my 1 year Blogaversary! I appreciate you all so much and thank you again for being my very best "blogging Buddies"! I'll be seeing you on your blogs!

Best,


Curt O'Brien

"God help me be the person that my dogs think I am."

108 comments:

Robb_eeie said...

Hey Curt ~ Congratulations on your number of blog hits (readers) as well as your one year blog anniversary :)

You always provide inspiration with your creations and photography, as well as a smile and chuckle~! Thus, how could I resist viewing your *chatter* for the day?!?

Congrats again Curt; you SO deserve it.

Anonymous said...

I love the dogs! Such great photos! I just arrived from Janine's blog. I love her stuff and if she loves yours - I had to check it out! So glad I did. I love the photos. The Phily box - one of those "Duh" moments - such a great idea. Congratulations on your blog. I don't have a blog - I think I spend too much time looking at everyone else's. Can't wait to see more of your great work! Thanks so much for sharing. I showed my big guy (a lab mix) your dogs but he didn't comment, just a big sigh as usual.

Chris R. from Iowa

Jackie said...

Happy Blogaversary to you! I truly enjoy seeing your work and am inspired by it to do better. I subscribe to all three blogs that you highlighted and find their work inspiring also. I don't remember how I found your blog, I'm just glad I did! Here's to many more blogaversaries! You are awesome, Curt!

Unknown said...

well its my second day visiting - told you I'd be back :-) even my husband wants to see your blog now, for the dogs!!! i can see why you'd give away those markers, you do beautiful work with pencil and OMS. somehow, I can't quite get the full swing of the OMS but I keep trying every now and then.

here's to another great blogging year for you - i'm so glad I found you - such great inspiration!

Becky said...

Congratulations!!!:). Love the new look of your blog, it is funny, I use Firefox and when I switch it is like going to anew blog. Love the house mouse stamps and projects, I just bought the house mouse with the jelly beans, he is so adorable. And I love your idea of the cream cheese box :). Your coloring is awesome. And the sentiment with the mouse blowing in the breeze is the best, must remember that. Have a great day and thanks for sharing.

Danielle said...

What fantastic projects Curt - I especially love the boxes - who'd have guessed a cream cheese box template - how very creative of you!! LOVE that card and sentiment - so cute!! And thanks for the chance at this fantastic candy! Congrats on such a fabulous blog and so many incredible hits - you deserve it!! :)
Hugs, Danielle

mudmaven said...

Can you see me hopping up and down and waving colorful baloons to celebrate - HAPPY BLOGOVERSARY! I just love those Easter projects! How inspired are you to use a cream cheese box for a pattern - genius! That "blown away" house mouse is one of the cutest hm images I've ever seen. ~chris

Nina said...

LOL... ok.. you are quite the smart guy... cream cheese boxes and spam!! ummm.. I have to question what your are eating over there or are you feeding the dogs this? LOL.... Truly a wonderful idea for the box, I KNOW I will be doing that somewhere down the line too!! I must agree great box size! Now, those boxes turned out super cute and I love that little fence line and I also love that image on your card! awesome!! Now to the blog thingie... I truly loved how you honored the ones that first left you comments, what lovely words you have left them to feel and how honored I am sure they will feel them!! Life is sooo good in the small things, isn't it? NOW, I am just about dying over that blog candy!! and laughing that I had not a clue and thought it might hold something!! I'm clueless for sure!! I can't believe you are giving such an awesome freeie away, but I too, am a colored pencil kind of girl, so not sure how you work those copic thingies, but I certainly wouldn't mind giving them a try either!! So, hats off to your special celebration and Blogaversary and I am sure the boys can hardly stand it, do they have special attire for such a celebration as this? LOL... yes I am certain they do!!! Truly CONTGRATS CURT! whoooweeee.. now off to bed, all this partying sure has worn this girl out!!

Bumbles and Fairy-Tales said...

Awww, Curt, your puppies are sooo adorable! I love how their bandanas match the flowers that also match your new blog look ;) Very cool!
Happy Blog-versary!!! How sweet of you to thank the sweet people that help start you off! I remember those comments, I remember the recent ones too! Such a blessing to have such inspiring and encouraging friends :)
I adore your HM images! As always, beautiful coloring! I adore your work and your posts!
Cheers, Curt! Here's to another billion years!!!
{{BIG hugs}}, margie

Jan Scholl said...

Oh Curt-did you get the email today from House Mouse with their new stamps? OMG-I want them all. If you didnt get it, click here http://www.house-mouse.com/php/Gruffies09.php

and drool! Now if you pull my name, I want you to send them to my daughter, who I let use my copics at a class last night. She is getting married this fall and is making her own invites. She is getting married in an old movie theatre up in Saginaw. How cool is that? Finally the last of my babies is settling down. woo hoo. I hope this rain moves out now. Happy day before taxes are due-guess what I am doing right now?

The Rubber Maid said...

Well goodness me I couldn't figure out your hint and here it was a copic top...ever clever good buddy.
Happy Blogoversary and happy all the hits. Keep striving to get on that design team as you certainly deserve it. Here's to many more hits and many more years of blogging. Cheers, Pat

Vina T. said...

Hi Curt! Congrats on your blogoversary!! It's wonderful to know that you always remember to thank you blog buddies. i can't believe that you don't care to use the copics and prefer pencils. Actually if I could get my pencils to look nearly as great as your I probrably would too. I've been dying to get those markers but they are just way too expensive so I just work with what I have for now. Congrats again and keep up the great work!!

Julie Koerber said...

YEAHHHHHH!!! Congrats Mr. Curt! Thank you so much for your kind words. Gosh, it seems like just yesterday I was leaving those comments right here on your place. Can you believe what a difference a year makes????

I have to say using a Philly Cream Cheese box for a template is brilliant!!! You know I am going to give that one a try! ;-)

Happy Blogoversary!!!!!

6 wacky women said...

Happy Blogaversary to youuuuu!!
That was me singing to you in case you didn't know....lol!!
I must say the boys are just beautiful with the yellow and green background...I love looking at them.
Your cards and projects are gorgeous. Great idea with the Philly box...so clever.
Your coloring of the HM images with your pencils is truly wonderful, never give them up!!
Great pic of the week, the blue heron is gorgeous.

Have a great week....
Karen x

Katherine said...

WOW! I love your Easter treat boxes! I have wondered what to make with the cream cheese boxes but have never played with them. Now - inspired by you - I will be putting them to good use! Thanks for all the lovely cards you have shared this year! It has been fun to follow your stamping progress!

And- I LOVE all of the House Mouse stamps you have used! I never get tired of them, either! : )Keep up the gorgeous work!

Happy Blogoversary!Here's to many more!

Sue from Oregon said...

Curt, Curt, Curt! You are always thinking aren't ya? Love your creations...that little jelly bean mousie just makes me smile! Congrats on one year of blogging...my anniversary is this week too! We started our blogs at the same time!
Looking forward to the next year!

Claire said...

Congrats on your 1 year blogversary,
Have been a follower for some time now and am enjoying it as well as your dogs :)

Here's to many more

Jami said...

oooh, love those little easter boxes! Brilliant idea!! What fun to read your blog facts...you forgot South Korea ;) You ROCK!!

What a generous blog candy too! I thought I recognized that lid!

Cool pic of the week...I don't know that I've ever seen a blue heron. What a cool lookin' bird!

Hugs, Jami

Barbara M said...

Wow everyone is Happy!! One year celebration congrats!Great blog surprise...I did not even think copics. This great blog candy. Another cute HM stamp. Keep up the good work!!!

Diane said...

Hi Curt, Congrats on your one year, and WOW, you have had a lot of visits to your blog, but I can sure see why.....I love your blog! I think your coloring is fantastic with the pens you use, I own one Copic and the blender (was going to buy 1 at a time), I have OMS, and the first time I used it, well, I always stick my pencils in my mouth, and guess what, yep, I put that OMS nub in there, too.....yikes...I don't recommend anyone try that stupid stunt...that will teach me to keep things out of my mouth! Also thanks for the tip on the wonderful place to purchase the House Mouse stamps, wow, so many to choose from! The cheese box idea...gee, why didn't I think of that??? Well,Happy "blog"Anniversary...glad I subscribe and am thrilled to be listed on your side bar! Nellies Nest!

Anonymous said...

The babies look adorable in their spring attire!!! A philly box???? Seriously, what won't you try to alter??!! Awesome projects as usual Curt! That Blogaversary gift is awesome. I see so many people using them so they must be something!! I am not into coloring anymore so don't put my name in for the draw. I just wanted to stop by and celebrate with you cause I love ya! Happy Blogaversary!

Lauri said...

Curt I always love stopping by your blog to see your handsome guys on top! They are so so cute in their new picture!! This is very very generous of you; I know what you mean about getting the hang of copics! I have a few, but keep going back to my colored pencils too! and that House Mouse image is too too cute!! Watch out Papertrey! Curt is on his way with packaging ideas!!! haha!!

Michelle Alejandro said...

Congrats Curt! One year sure goes fast! I love coming to your blog and getting inspired! I love the Easter goodies that you made, what a clever idea about the cream cheese box!

I have some of those copics and am in the same boat as you, can't quite get the hang of them. Oh well! Have a wonderful week and I will stop by soon. I am going on vacation tomorrow, so my postings will be on hold for a couple of weeks.

Hugs,
Michelle

Tracey said...

Happy blogoversary Curt! Isn't this bloggy world just filled with amazing people! Love your projects! You rock those little mice!!

Karen from Ontario said...

Congrats on your anniversary....this is my first visit here and I can't wait to check it out. I found you through Janine's blog.
thanks for the chance to win and have a great day...

Janine said...

CURT!!!! Thank you so so much for the kind words my friend!! I love visiting and your work is just amazing! The cream cheese container!! How ingenious!
You have yourself a wonderful day and congratulations!!

Joyce Spear said...

Happy Blogaversary! It's always a treat to swing by and see the boys, your artwork, and your photos. I'm not into "cute" stuff, but if I keep visiting here I'm going to break down and get some HM stamps for myself! You do such a great job of adding color, sometimes it inspires me to get out my own pencils and OMS. FANTASTIC blog candy... is it greedy of me to say "GOSH! I hope I win!"?

Patti J. said...

Curt, Happy Blogaversary! I love your blog, and I can't believe that I JUST found it this weekend! Who knew what I was missing??? I will be back on a daily basis, winner or not!

Anonymous said...

Curt, I just found your blog and I am so happy I did! I don't think I have ever seen Giant Schnauzers and they are so beautiful! I've spent over an hour going over your previous posts and I can see why everyone loves you so much. Your work is beautiful and you have made me a House Mouse fan. You color like an artist, did you take classes? Your photography is awesome. What kind of camera do you use? Thanks for the chance at this amazing prize. I only have a few of the basic colors and I would LOVE to have this set. I don't have a blog yet, but yours is inspiring me to create one. Thanks again! Marybeth - Mesa, Arizona

Jean ~ said...

Curt ~
Happy Blogaversary1 Time flies when you're havin' fun heh? I never tire of your HM cards, and just love the cream cheese template idea.
Jean ~ aka CraftyJean on SCS

Bonnie Weiss said...

Happy Blogaversary, indeed, Curt! Visiting your blog during my daily 'blurfing', always gives me something to look forward to. Wishing you many, many more blogaversaries that we can share with you.

carpediem said...

I am not surprised that you have so many blog hits and followers as your work is outstanding! Love the idea of using the philly box as a template! Congrats on your first blogaversary! laura j

Anonymous said...

Oh Curt, your cards just blow me away. I have had this stamp for years, have used it many times, but your version opens a whole new window. thanks for sharing. keep them coming.. MaryAnn

Gina Wrona said...

Hi Curt,

Now I now why I didn't get your clue, I don't have any Copic markers so I didn't know that's what the cap looked like. How Awesome your blog has become and I only found you because of Jen Young sending me over to you when you first started. I love all your photo's as well as creations. You are absolutely fabulous!
Hugs,
Gina

P.S. congrats! Well deserved!!

sandyh50 said...

Congrats on your blogaversary Curt! It does not surprise me at all on your phenomenal success. I've had you on my Google Reader for a looong time and I always come here when I see a new post! I don't like mice but you sure are making me want to buy some House Mouse stamps! LOL! That card is sure cute!

lisa808 said...

Happy 1st Blogerversary!

It was so nice reading about Julie, Janine, & Pat. I 'discovered' you through Julie & Pat.

Adorable Easter projects. What a great idea to use the cream cheese box as a template. It is a perfect size for little treats.

Thanks for the chance to win such awesome and generous blog candy.

Looking forward to our 'next year together!'

Jane Wetzel said...

Congrats and Happy happy happy blogaversary!!!! Love your work, your pics, your dogs!!! Best wishes to you for many more blogaversaries!! Jane :)

Sue said...

Congratulations Curt on your blogaversary, your work is stunning. Luv your little box & your card is beautiful gorgeous colours & colouring.
What a scrummy candy very generous of you.Look forward to another year of your work, sue.x

Unknown said...

Congratulations Curt that is soooo cool that you have SUCH a following! :D So gracious of you to give away those markers! :D

Thanks curt, I love reading your blog, I dont always leave comments, but I always read! TTYS!

Doramiyi said...

First off, congratulations. Second,you are so sweet to thank individuals who have encouraged you through your first blogging days, very thoughtful.

This is the first time I've visited, and of course was drawn here by the blog candy, can't lie about that. Candy is the fastest way to draw people.

By the way love your Philadelphia cream cheese box. Smart, I never thought about using everyday household items for templates. Gotta keep that one in mind.

Thanks for hosting the blog candy and for including those that don't have blogs. I'm much more a reader/follower then a poster. Wishing you many a more counter hits.

doramiyi
doramiyi at gmail dot com
-CANADA-

Denise said...

WOw Curt, such great blog candy!!! Please enter me in this drawing.
Aloha~

Anonymous said...

What an exciting post!!!! Curt-thanks for always sharing your discoveries and creations- they are great as always!!!!

It's true, through this blog world, we really do find incredible people to create friendships with :)

Thanks for the chance to win such an incredible presie- it's definitely the coolest.

XOXO
Sara

Scossie Jane said...

Congratulations on your 1st Blogoversary Curt. You have quite a following now, well done.

Thanks for giving us regulars two shots at the Copics - no wonder I couldn't work out what your hint was, I've never seen a Copic pen!!! They are proving near impossible to source here in Oz, and soooooo expensive.

Could order from US, but then they add shipping and weight, even more expensive, so I gave up.

Love your use of the Philadelphia cheese box, smarty pants. I've been working on little pizza boxes for a class, but they're not as cute as yours...

The HM is again adorable, love the sentiment, and your colouring is fab, as always...

Anyway, Curt, here's to the next year, my blogoversary is next month, how the hell do I top a box of Copics?

Hugs Jane xx

America said...

Oh Curt, ya know I love your blog and your postings that are like eye Candy. :) Happy Blog-Anniversary & congrats!! You are a Terrific guy with great talents and such a kind heart. Who wouldnt want to stop by your blog?

Also, you are brilliant in using those Philly cream cheese boxes. Its so funny to read your thoughts on these because Ive also thought that when I throw one of these into the recylcing bin. Guess all containners are good for craft somethings, but only CLEVER you has actually done anything about it. YOU have totally inspired me. What is it with you and food containers anyway? LOL!! I love your Easter projects for your Moms. How clever & totally cute! That candywrap is so FUN!! And that House Mouse card...well, dont even get me started on how wonderful your coloring is on that! WOW, WOW, WOW!!!

As for the blogcandy, well, youre very generous and much too kind to offer that! Ya' know, Ive never used Copics yet! Isnt that funny? Not to worry, its on my list to try. :) I love that you use pencils, the good 'ole way. As for me, I currently only use LePlume Markers, blending pens & blending Chalks. :) Its been the simplest for me who has issues coloring! LOL.

Thanks for being you Curt. YOU ROCK!!

Unknown said...

Happy Blogaversary!
Your projects are really inspiring. TFS!

Colleen K. said...

Congrats on your blog anniverasry! Thanks for all your great ideas.
Thanaks for a chance to win some blog candy. What an awesome prize.

Percy said...

Curt, Congratulations on your blogoversary, your visitors, and your followers...it is inspiring when we see how much we inspire people!!! You certainly do that, I love your blog, and your creations!!!!!! I love how you took the box apart to make a pattern for these Easter goodies, I always think about that everytime I see a box I like....Thanks for the chance for this wonderful blog candy....YOU are AWESOME!!!

Etha said...

Well happy blogasomething :) I'm always amazed how people can remember these dates cause I sure don't have a clue when I started bloggin :)
Oh I'd love to win this copics set! I don't think I have this one. Love the ciaos, they work so much better for me than the sketch markers. And, after a year or so of having them, I am now totally hooked!
that cheesebox is something else, too cute, what a great idea!
I have been subbed to your blog via bloglines for a long time, does that count as follower??
I think I may be the last dinosaur left to use bloglines but it works for me.

Susan (rainy) said...

Wonderful projects.. wonderful card.. wonderful blog! Congrats on your first year, Curt. And you NEVER have to apologize for those darling HM images!!! Thanks for the chance to win some Copics!!

Rita said...

Happy blogaversary Curt!!! Your cards & candy bar wrapper & box are awesome today & what great inspiration for a box!

Great blog candy kiddo...good luck everyone!

Luv the new pic of the boys!

Elaine M said...

Congrats Sweet Curt!!!! Of course we read every word of your blogs - they are funny and sweet and just gives us the warm luvin fuzzies of chatting with a close friend. I'm heading to the store to buy cream cheese so I can get the box - you have THE best ideas - thx for sharing them. Here's to many more years of great blogs and good friends. Blessings - Elaine Moore
mtn.moven.faith@comcast.net

Jodi said...

Congratulations on your blogaversary!! Time sure flies quickly, and soon, I will have one too! =) Your creativity and passion has always been so inspirational to me. I love coming here to see what you're up to and what the next project/card will be.
What a great project you have done here, and all your wonderful coloring!!
I have been very lucky to have met you here on your blog. I also love that we are able to exchange things in the mail with each other!! =)
Thank you for a chance in winning these babies, and hope it will be me.
Big Hugs,
Jodi =)

Anonymous said...

Great blog and I love the projects. Happy Blogoversary!! Mine 1st is today!!

Anonymous said...

HAPPY, HAPPY, BLOG ANNIVERSary! SURE HOPE WHOEVER WINS YOUR "PRIZE" APPRECIATES IT. JUST HOW DO YOU GET "ALL GOD'S CREATURES TO POSE FOR YOU" LPVE YA, MOM

twinkletoe said...

Happy Blogaversary Curt.I found you from Jen in Hawaii a little under a year ago and you have just improved so wonderfully. I love to read your bog, see your great cards and ideas and love your photos too.

Seems like all your commentors leave LONG comments too. Its like chatting to a good friend.

Love you Curt XX

Anonymous said...

Happy Blogaversary and many many more. I love visiting you and your friends. I started read Glee's blog from prayers you had asked for her. I love it too. I have checked out all the blogs you read too, knowing the are good ones. Your so sweet to your Mom and your babies, Such a good guy.

Papier Creatif said...

H*A*P*P*Y B*L*O*G*A*V*E*R*S*A*R*Y!!

Love all your projects, Curt! So glad I found your Blog!

Totally cute Easter gift box!

{xoxo} Juls~

Danielle said...

Hey Curt, pop on over to my blog - I have an award waiting for you!!
Hugs, Danielle

Rebecca Ednie said...

Congrats on your first year! I think we all visited the first time to see what a guy could do! Then we keep coming back to see your work! Great job.

Joy said...

I love your blog and your creativity! You're the bomb! You've inspired me to start using all of my House Mouse stamps. Thank you!
- Joy

Carmen O. said...

Hi Curt, I love your creations! The Easter box is so very clever and creative. You really think outside the box...no pun intended :). I love that HM image of the mouse flying on the flower stem. I guess I need to put that on my wish list. Your candy bar sleeve is so fun. What a cute stamp and paper! I love coming here to see your creations and get inspired. Please do not enter me in your blog candy as I'm pretty happy with colored pencils and OMS as well. I don't think I'd do well with markers. Happy Blogaversary Curt!

Crystal said...

Curt , I just found your blog through Janine's and I should say first of all that when I clicked on and saw the schnauzers , I gave a shout ! I have a schnauzer myself and absolutely LOVE them !! Have really enjoyed your blog ... so sorry to have missed it all this time. Happy Blogaversary!

DeeDee said...

OMG!! You are giving away Copic Markers! Only YOU my sweet friend! You are just so very generous in all that you do and that's why I am drawn to you...well, that and your AWESOME talent! Sheesh! I can't believe its already your 1 year BLOGAVERSARY!!! Well, congrats my sweet friend...I've been luvin' every minute of it! HUGS!

Shirley said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
CHIKAI ♥ said...

Happy Blogoversary!

BLOGSILOG.COM

Sherry said...

happy bloversary

Shirley said...

Thanks for stopping by to see me Curt. I was a little behind as usual! I would hate to have missed the celebration and your beautiful cards and gift boxes. I had to 'smile' when you talked about where you got your idea. I agree with you about all 3 ladies! Big hugs on your Oscar too. Wonderful and beautiful cards as usual, and the blog candy is wow for whomever wins......and by the way.....the Heron is gorgeous beyond words!

Sorry, I had to post again. I had no idea I wasn't following you. I am now and I hope you will feel free to follow me if you like!

Sandy said...

Congratulations on your hits Curt. I just happened upon your blog not to long ago and am glad that I did! Your ideas and creativity are great.
Sandy in Utah

Nancy said...

Hey Curt, congrats on your blogaversary. Love your new pic of the boys...they look super adorable, as usual. Fab picture of the blue heron too!
Love your boxes, and the image you used for them is perfect...Philly Cream Cheese is definitely versatile. :) Your HM card is wonderful. Great coloring and colors.
No need to enter me in the drawing for your blog candy - I am Copic challenged and cannot seem to get them to look good, so like you, I will stick to my pencils and baby oil. I just wanted to leave you a congrats message.
Hugs!
Nancy

Ila said...

Congrats on your Blogaversary!!...Your card, gift boxes and candy wrapper are all Gorgeous and Super Cute!!...the altered cream cheese box is Wonderful!!...I've linked your fabulous candy on my sidebar.....Hugs, Ila

Jean Fitch from jlfstudio said...

Congratulations Curt on your Blogaversary!

Lovely cards and projects. Now I know why I keep looking at and saving the cream cheese boxes. Silly me never thought about using them as a template. I kept envisioning them covered with designer paper but it seemed like a chore to cut it out and attach it (never thought about taking the box apart - LOL! Thanks for pointing the way!

Hugs and blessings and all the best in your next year of blogging - Jean

Bobbi W. said...

Happy Blogaversary, love your cards and coloring, thanks for sharing.

Joan Fricker said...

Curt, congratulations on your blog anniversary!!! Your cards are great and who would have thought to use a cream cheese box....only Curt!!!! Great job!

Joan

Vanessa said...

Happy Blogaversary! Love your projects and cards. Your blog is a great place for inspiration.

Julia Aston said...

Congrats on your 1 year Curt! how fun to see all your stats! It is amazing how much we grow in our friends and our card creativity over a year!

what a super blog candy you are offering too!

thanks for the chance to win it!!

stampinganja said...

Congratulations with your blogaversary!!
I found your blog through Janine's blog.
Your work is amazing, both your cards and photography.
I have signed up as a follower right away, and scrolled down all your previous posts.
Wonderful blog candy, you are gonna make somebody very happy!!
Thanks for sharing your talent with all of us, take care, Anja

dpkennedy said...

Aw Curt, you just tug at the heartstrings! What a beautiful speech to honor the "firsts" and just a beautiful thank you to all of your readers! Your cards and projects are always wonderful, including these beauties today! I love the cream cheese box!! I love to read your stories and see the new picture of the week and the new attire on your boys for each season/holiday! I am so glad that I found your blog and wish you the best success in everything you do! Your blog candy is very generous, wow, someone is going to really get lucky!

Have a wonderful day!

Cathy said...

Awesome blog Curt! Thanks for offering up such delicious candy, I have just found your blog today and so so glad I did, I will be in daily for a peek.

http://aliitlebitofheaven.blogspot.com/

Hugs Cathy

Lorraine said...

Congratulation Kurt for such a fantastic blog, gorgeous dogs and amazing cards. Keep us inspired. Hugs Lorraine Jersey UK

Erin said...

I just love that you used a cream cheese container as a template.. Such a great idea.. Congrats and im so glad you started a blog. I love seeing all of your great work.

Hugs
Erin

maiahs_momma said...

Happy Blogaversary :)! Thank you so much for this chance to win some amazing markers. I became a follower of your blog as well :)!

Hugs,
catherine
catlevy@eastlink.ca
www.mystampinggrounds.blogspot.com

PaperAddictJenn said...

Happy Blogaversary! We should be giving you presents instead of you giving them to us, but I won't object if I win :) I love all your projects and pictures of the babies. Thanks for all your inspiration!
Jennifer

Diane said...

Congrats on your blog, your blog is wonderful. I just started my very own blog today, which is kinda exciting. Thanks for sharing and I would like to link you to my blog, lol if I can figure out how to, my friend set me up with the blog. Have a great day. Diane

Lora said...

I just found my way to your blog from Carolynnes.
Your cards and other projects are all beautiful. I have became a follower so I don't lose you again (I have been here once before)
I didn't know that you had a giveaway until I got here but I would love to be entered if that's okay?
I also have a giveaway on my blog just now and would love if you came and had a peek.
Hugs Lora x

Pat said...

I really enjoy visiting your blog. I'm new to the crafting world so I love to look at what others have done and pray that one day I might have just a little of their talent. Keep up the good work and congrats on your blogaversary.

Deb Neerman said...

Wooohooo, that's some awesome blog candy, Curt!!! You are sooooooooo generous!

LOVE your HM card, of course, but I love your l'il cream cheese box template project! So clever!!

Congrats on the blogstone; I always love coming by to see what you and the "boys" have been up to! You're one of my favorite stops in all of Blogdom!!

~Hugs, Deb

Judy said...

Happy Blogaversary! As always, your work is just out of this world. And how inventive to use a Philly cream cheese box for a template.

Monika/Buzsy said...

Happy Belated Blogaversary! Too bad you didn't get the hang of them... I LOVE your decorated cream cheese box. Love the fence punch on it... great coloring! Thanks for the yummy blog candy!

Jeni Glee said...

Congratulations, my dear Friend! You are such a dear to offer such a wonderful blog candy prize! Your creations are a pure feast for the eyes and you are so smart to use the cream cheese box!

Thank you so much for your love and support during this time for me, Dwain and our family! You are so precious to me!

Lyselia said...

Congratulations Curt on your bloggerversay, wow the amount of comments left is amazing, I have watched your blog and have had a link from mine for quite some time now. I love your beautiful cards, more so the gift boxes. The RAK your giving away is grand, and sooo kind of you.

Congratulations once again.

Ruth

Macpurp said...

happy blogaversary!
what lovely candy!
These are fab creations !i love the cream cheese box template!
oh and you can add Scotland to your list of visitors!
much love tina xx

Diane said...

Hey Curt, Thanks for the warm and welcoming comments you made on my new blog, it means a lot. I figured out how to link your blog to mine so I have done that. Thanks again and I hope we will be chatting again in the future. Di

neverenoughrubberstamps said...

Happy Blogaversary to you!
Wonderful blog Candy. It's a shame that you didn't get the hang of them. I also really struggled with the copics at first.
I enjoy visiting your blog when I can and always enjoy your postings.
I love your Doggy photo's and your nature photos. You have a real talent!
The cream cheese project is great! I can't wait to use that one.

Cheers,

Dorothy

Diane said...

Hey Curt, Thanks for the tips, as I said I am very new at this. I did add a brief profile, my fiance wants to write one for me, hey who am I to argue. but I don't know where or how to add the viewable e-mail. I put it at the bottom of my profile. LOL I do tech support for Cell Phones all day so not to good at this blogging thing. Have a great one. Oh and I think it is really cool you have the Rubber Room link. They are a bunch of great ladies!!!
Di

Amy from Archiver's said...

Happy Blogaversary! One year is a great accomplishment. Can't wait for more cards to be inspired by! Once I get my own blog set up, you'll be the first person I let know. Thanks for sharing your card making enthusiasm with the rest of us!

Monika Reeck said...

Happy Blogaversary...one year is a great time...I see your cards through my email confirmation and I klick your Blog....thanks for the chance to win this candy...I really want to win something from you Curt...I love all your creation...
have a great day, Monika in Germany :)

Jodi said...

Hey Curt! I have something for you on my blog!!
Hugs,
Jodi =)

theneon said...

Woweee.... I haven't been by to see you in awhile and have you been busy. Your cream cheese remake is awesome and the new dog photos are great too.

Congratulations on your Blogaversary! Many you have many many more. Martha Kay

DeniseB said...

Wow.... I'm impressed! I just found your blog through a link on Janine's site. Your coloring is just beautiful and I plan to bookmark your site so I come back often to see what's new. And your giveaway is fabulous! Happy Blogaversary!
DeniseB

Sherry said...

Hi Curt, I actually found your site listed on the side of Joanna Johnson's blog (she was also a wonderful photographer/card maker!) I'm so glad that I stopped in, I am also a fellow nature lover and take many pictures, some good.. some not so worthy ---> but your pictures have me blown away! It's as if I could reach right in and touch them,smell them.. just wonderful! Congrats on your hits and enjoy the Kudos, you are very deserving! Ü

gocanucksgo said...

Hi Curt! Congrats on your blogaversary and over 20,500 hits! You'll reach a million in no time ;Þ I just found your blog and I think your creations are so adorable and imaginative! Your photography is amazing and your schnauzers are adorable. I can't wait to see your next creations =) Keep up the great work and thanks for doing this blog candy!

Anonymous said...

Wow - great photography!
The cream cheese box is a good idea - I am going to make one too. Congrats on your blog, keep it up. I will be back to visit.
Thanks for the chance on the super wonderful blog candy. My 2 daughter have their fingers crossed too.
Krista

Sharli said...

Curt, Congratulations on your blogaversary! I just started my blog about a month ago and I also had one comment on my first post! I hope to achieve fame as you have - and I'll have to work for that - as your blog is great, your art is great, and I love your photographs.

Elizabeth said...

Curt, Congrats on the blogaverary! I do love stopping by to see your amazing creations and spectacular photography. I am so excited about the blog candy what a great prize. Thanks for the chance to win.

Hugs XXXXX, Beth

Kara said...

Hi there!
I'm so glad I found your blog (from 2BKrafty)...great work! I'll be back often. I love your colouring and colour combinations!
Best of luck to you on the continuation of your blog.
Kara

Grace said...

I just found your blog as the result of seeing it listed on another blog... but now that I've found you I want to follow close behind! Love your HM projects! I giggled over the Cream Cheese box but I love it! I do the same thing for templates!!! I love HM too so we are on the same wave length there!
Grace

Big congrats on your first blogaversay.... I'm just starting in blogging and already hit 5000. hits and that amazes me!!!! So you are giving away a wonderful prize... how very generous of you and good luck to all!!!

Big congrats Curt!

Jan Mc said...

Wow Curt, how clever you are. Do not worry about your coloring, you do a fabulous job! Love the House Mice. By the way, cute comment from your Mom. Loved the surprise pic you posted of your Mom on the bridge. You are multi-talented. Keep on doing what you do. My blog is up and running but nothing on it except on pic and ramblings trying to learn everything, will let people know when there is something worth seeing. You are on my blog sidebar nonetheless. Thanks for all you do.

magic boxes said...

Curt, how clever is that box. I would never have thought of looking at an 'everyday' object and moving it into the craft world.

I will be looking around with my eyes and mind OPEN in future!!!

Beautiful work - as always.

Elaine x