Curt's Best Shots Slideshow

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

THE WEDNESDAY EVENING POST FOR SEPTEMBER 28, 2011

Hey All!

WOW!  What have you done to your hair????  You look amazing!  It makes you look so young!  I'm so glad to see you here!  I want to welcome those new followers too!  You pushed me to 300 followers and I couldn't be happier that you are here!  Thanks to Patti (Cherish Each Precious Day) and Mark (Deadbeat Designs) for mentioning me on their blogs.  It was great of you to do, and I appreciate it so much.

On with the post. . .Nothing too special tonight, but I can tell you that some fun new stuff is coming in the next couple of posts (videos!).  So keep tuning in.  My first card is a card that I really don't like AT ALL!  But I wanted to post it because it was one of those types of cards that we all fight with.  Take a look:
This card started with the sunflower head from Bo Bunny.  I then added a stamped stem with leaves which is actually from a poppy stamp.  That's all I had that even came close to add to the sunflower.  Totally not happy with the look, I added some Autumn colored FlowerSoft to the center.  Still not happy. . .Added the CuttleBugged frame and had the flower head stick out from it.  Ehhh. . . .Added the bee and used Stickles on t he wings. . .errrrrr.  Added the rust colored mat. . .ekkkkk. . .stamped the sentiment. . .ho hum. . . .big empty space needs something on the lower left so added orange dew drops, OK, I'm frickin sick of trying to save this damn card!  So, there you have the process, and after reliving it again, I HATE this card!  LOL

This next card uses punch art:
I made this card for some neighbors who recently lost their sweet dog Jake, but have gotten a new one since (rescue dog named Miley).  I wanted to welcome the new member of their family.  She's predominantly brown and white so I stayed with a monochromatic look.  I learned to make this punch puppy here with this great video tutorial.  It's little ears curl forward.  I created the background card stock and popped up the puppy with dimensionals.  The treat can is a recycled cashew can (I have several of these because cashews and pistachios are my favorite nuts).  I filled the can with "Pup Corn" which is a favorite treat of my boys.  The sentiment says "There is nothing better that to end a bad day covered in dog slobber."  Such a wonderful sentiment to welcome their sweet dog.

My final card (get ready Bonnie!!!) is a Halloween card:
I used one of those $1 stamps again but this time by itself.  I intend to do that with the other 3.  I wanted to get a "mummy" feel for the card, so I used masking tape all over the mat panel then used distress ink to "dirty" it and make it look like old bandages.  The "ribbon" is a used dryer sheet that I again "dirtied up" with distress ink.  Stamped the sentiment and done.

Now, I have to share a remarkable gift that one of my crafting neighbors (NINA!!!) gave me.  I was awe struck when I walked into her kitchen and it was sitting on her kitchen island lit up.  Take a look at this!
Bonnie has probably fainted right about now. . .LOL  Isn't this fabulous!?!  The eyes of both the man and the dog have lights in them so that they glow!  She said when she saw this, that with the combination of it being Halloween oriented and mentioning a dog, it had my name written all over it.  For the picture, I sat it on my mantel, but it has a permanent spot on the built-in bookcase next to the fireplace.  It looks so awesome!  Thanks again Nina!  You know me so well. . .LOL

Pic of the Week
BUG DRESSED FOR HALLOWEEN!

OK, that's it for this edition.  I'm still working my way around your blogs, so if I haven't gotten to yours yet, I'm on my way.  As you know, I use my comment section from the week before to visit all those who have left me a comment.  So I've been hitting an average of 45-50 blogs a week.  And I read EVERY word of your posts.  So it takes me some time, but I love every minute of it!

I do hope you are all well and happy and that you are having a great week.  You all are important to me and I think about you all a lot.  I don't have a big family (there are only really 4 of us) so you all have become my extended family, and I'm honored that you visit me each week.


Love you guys!


Best,


Curt O'Brien


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

47 comments:

ahlers5 said...

I'm new to your blog, but I absolutely love reading your posts. I know how you feel with the first card. Some cards I make just never really have the right feel to me. I love the masking tape and dryer sheet ideas. Very original! See you next week.
Diane

Gail said...

Congratulations!
Good for you!
They will love coming here as much as we do!
Love the cards!
The sunflower one is pretty!
The punched puppy is just 'stinkin cute!'
The Halloween mummy is priceless!
You're in fine form my friend!
Have a great week, hope everyone's well in your little corner of the world!

Gail said...

OMG! I forgot to say that I liked the guy & his dog!

And the pic of the week didn't creep me out either!

Patti J said...

So...am I your sis, mom, or granny? lol - I feel the same way about my blogging friends! Our family is very small too. Okay, so we all have cards that we hate. Thank goodness that they are not as many as the ones we like! Love the doggie treats and card. I need to make some of those for our no-kill shelter. So glad that they got a rescue dog - good for them :) Your mummy card is so stinkin' cute - love the masking tape! However, he really is too cute to spook - even Bonnie is smiling, I'll bet! Your frame is so much fun. Your neighbor does, indeed, know you very well! I have to say that bug truly does look like he is in costume - how much fun!!! All of your projects are wonderful, even the one you hate! Thanks for sharing, and for being a bright spot in my dreary day! Although, if you could see my shaggy hair, you'd change your first sentence! lol... Have a great last couple days of the week, and a wonderful weekend, sir! Hugs...

Carmen O. said...

Am I really the first? That would be strange as I haven't been so good about blogging or leaving comments. I really do enjoy stopping by your blog and seeing your wonderful creations. That Mummy card is the cutest! I love the masking tape and the dryer sheet ribbon. How clever. I don't think your sunflower card is as bad as you think it is. The doggy card and treat tin are perfect! And the sentiment how adorable.

Have a great rest of the week. Oh and love your photo of the week. You sure have a great eye!

Ted said...

You know I'm one of your biggest fans, but I need to know where you got that adorable MUMMY stamp! :) I so want to make a card like you did, masking tape and all! I hope you'll share the details. :)

Jackie said...

First of all, if you could see my hair you wouldn't have said that! I got it cut yesterday and am going back for some "tweaking" tomorrow. I don't hate that first card, but I am not nuts about it either. Your other ones, however, are fabulous - especially your puppy. Too cute. You have some really sweet neighbors - what a perfect gift. I want to come live in your neighborhood.

Sue from Oregon said...

Hey Curt...I always look forward to this time of the year as I always look forward to your fall/Halloween creations. That little mummy is as cute as can be! Love those techniques your used. I know what you mean about fussing with a card that does not make you happy! This is bad, but I usually give it to my Mom...she loves everything her baby makes LOL!

Jan Scholl said...

Sunflowers! Argh!! I never want to see another one. I am on FB playing Cityville and we have to plant sunflowers to earn the casino or some stupid thing and I plant and plant and count them out to make sure I have 150, then I come back and my neighbors have harvested them for me and I only get credit for half! It takes 15 hours to get them to harvest. Wah!!!! So then daughter wants me to bring a dish to her house for her party and she asks for---sunflower bread. Grrrr. So I dig in the pantry and find sunflower seeds....and they are rancid. At least the sunflower oil is fine, no thanks to Florence Henderson. So I am cleaning out my spices and my house smells dee-vine! Taking a break because it's Wednesday and that is Curt Day! Gonna be cold this weekend so bundle up-we are hitting the Ren Fest and I am gonna visit the Witch for a potion-I am thinking Dragon's Blood. Happy fall and as soon as Halloween is done, I am down til May. See ya!

Becky said...

I love sun flowers :)...reminds me of Spring & Summer, my favorite seasons.
Fabulous cards, love the punch art of the dog, what a great gift set.
I am still here sitting with all my box's waiting for a closing date.

Anonymous said...

Hi, Curt, love reading your posts. How creative you are - the mummy card is soooo cute but the puppy card and treat tin are my favourites. Great pic of the week!
Enjoy your day and keep well,
Amelia

Dee in N.H. said...

Great post Curt! I love your cards and yes even that dang sunflower card too! Ha! I just love the way you used the masking tape on the cute little mummy card. What a cool gift from your neighbor! Kind of creepy with the lights but is very you. LOL! Glad to see a comment from Ted too as I've been wondering if he was OK.
Have yourself a great week,
love, Your new sister LOLOL!

Bonnie Weiss said...

Well, personally I like the sunflower card ... it's a flower and IT"S NOT HALLOWEEN!!

Your neighbour must have been so thankful when you took the welcome card and gift to them for their new addition, Miley. The set is so cute and I love the way you have the ears flopping. It's no wonder your neighbours love you!

As for the next 2 entries, well they speak for themselves ... they're HALLOWEEN! And honestly, I could not have those glowing eyes looking at me from anywhere in my home (not even in a sealed box in my basement!).

And finally, only YOU could find a bug that's dressed for Halloween. And for the record ... only 33 sleeps until Halloween is over!!

Lauri said...

Curt, I am amazed at how many blogs you visit each week! I know I really appreciate your comments! and thanks for comments on my hair...so many people never notice when I change it! ; )

PS Brave of you to post a card you hate! and I am surprised...your cards are always so perfect!

richardbreaks said...

Hi Curt!! What an amazing MUMMY card!!! I will definitely have to CASE that one! The dryer sheet idea is genius!! I bet some gauze bandaging would work well too.
I definitely have had more of those cards I hate more often than I like to admit. I guess it's all part of the creative process...
The pup is adorable. Ilove anything to do with dogs, too...
Have a great week!!

Diane said...

First I have to tell you I laughed right out loudabout the hair thing, as mine is "bed head" right now...and yeas it is amazing, but not in a good way..heehee!! I posted a card "I hate" this morning, too...yesterday was a bad creative day for me...but now on to YOUR projects...love that muumy guy...a very creative way to use the masking tape!! And of course ya gotta know I LOVE that doggie card and treat set...you are such a nice neighbor...will ya move next door to me??????

Anonymous said...

Hi ya Curt!! :) Fabulous creations you're showing us this week hun!! I have to say that the doggie treat set is just ADORABLE!! I am also loving that mummy design!! Too clever!! :) Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful designs!! I love them ALL!! HUGS

Stacie (craft-princess) said...

LMAO! If you could only see me right now...you sure wouldn't be complementing my hair! :P

I'm glad you posted a card you struggled with as I have been there and done that too many times to count! I keep thinking add a little of this or a little of that but it just doesn't work for me. Oh well....can't win them all!

The way you did the bandages on the mummy card is too cool. Your so creative!

Also a sweet gift for the new pup and a great card to go with it....love those ears!

AND holy moly!! That lit up present is AWESOME! Such a great sentiment and the eyes really are creepy looking!!

Hope you have a great rest of the week!

Mary said...

Ah..I know all about "difficult" cards, but no wine with this one?? LOVE your puppy gift/card, it is soo cute and I bet your neighbors loved it too! Great idea on you Mummy card, will have to try that sometime soon! TFS!!

Celeste said...

I never lie to ya hon', you're right,the sunflower card can go. However, having said that, I think the puppy card and canister and the mummy card are perfect.
The boys look wonderful in their fall get up. I am still borrowing computers so don't come to my blog, I haven't done anything in awhile. I hope to be back soon.

Audrey Frelx said...

Hi, Curt!!! Congrats, my friend, on all your new followers; and I'll be the first to tell them "Welcome, you've found a great blog to follow"!!!

My friend, you are such a "fussy-duddy", that first card is gorgeous! If you just don't like it, send it to me... LOL!!!

As I always do, I love all your projects today. All are awesome (especially the box and card)!

Thanks for stopping by, I appreciate it always when you come over. I'm home now and feeling so much better but still moving a bit slower than I'd like. Of course, I don't complain...., I'm moving!!! LOL!

Hugs, my sweet friend!

ursula Uphof said...

Hi Ccurt, I guess your comment wasn't about me, as my hair today is in a terrible state and my hairdresser is out of town....any way...love your blog. I know all about "those" cards, but hats off to you for showing it, mine get hidden. Love the doggie treat one, need to remember that when I do a Christmas card for my friend who only has furry children. Thanks so much for visiting I really do aappreciate it and take care in your little corner of the globe. Warm wishes froma very summery South Africa with maybe some rain this weekend.

Jean S. said...

Just LOVE the little mummy card. Great minds do think alike, I intended to use masking tape as my background as well. When you posted the first group of Michael's Halloween $1 stamps I left that day to get them ha ha. My Michael's hadn't even gotten them on the sales floor yet. Luckily I had a very friendly, helpful associate that was happy to bring out the cartons and give first dibs LOL TFS

Dawnll said...

You are just hilarious! You look MAAHHHVELOUS darlin!!!
I think your much to hard on yourself...but I do understand. I tend to Throw my un-liked cards...lol
Love the mummy and so adorable.
Hope everyone is doing well and settling in for fall.
I also am very attached to my followers and consider many "family" as long as you don't call me grandma!
Hugs to you all sweetie.
Oh yea my slideshow of pictures went away again.

Leigh said...

I love the photo of the bug dressed for Halloween, Curt.
We all have days like that with our cards and creations. I had one yesterday. lol It's in the bin!!!
You punch art dog card is fabulous and so is the treat tin. I bet the recipient's nose had a wonderful workout!!
Take care and have a great week.

Anonymous said...

Well hello there...and thanks for noticing my hair...that is called
the new gramma look" lol
So the first card is just not perfect "wha wha "" lol

I love the doggie card and tnm , so cute...

and the mummy card id you...

so I am off to try to play and create... but I bet I end up back at my daughters house...lol love being a gramma agaun ..thanks for sharing all that you do ! Soni B

Anonymous said...

Enough card chit chat - I gotta know - what is the pup-corn? Homemade or store bought? My other question - for the dog slobber sentiment - stamped or computer generated? My nosey basset wants to know as he just might want to give a couple neighbors a little holiday treat. The boys look so cute in their fall attire! Love your blog and thanks for sharing your talent with us.

Chris R. from Iowa

Jean McKenzie said...

Curt, you make me laugh with your opening comments!! If only you could see me LOL!!! I love how you share such a lovely variety of cards each week for us to to see. You have such great and different ideas and not afraid to experiment!
Love your take on that little bug - hmmm we have some like that here and not sure whether they are friend or foe as they are on our macadamia nut trees!! I guess they have some purpose in life LOL!!
Hugs to you, Jay and the boys!!

Jocelyn aka JoBear2 said...

Hi Curt, always love visiting here as I always leave feeling better and with a smile on my face.

Oh, I have cards too that I end up tossing across the room in frustration. The more I try and fix it, the worse it seems to get. And let's face it, we are are own worst critics. It made me giggle as I read your description of what you did as it sounded just like me LOL!!

Your halloween card and that awesome picture with the spooky eyes on your mantlepiece makes me almost wish we celebrated Halloween here! The bug dressed in his Halloween costume just cracked me up!!

Ohhhh, I LOVE the doggy treats tin and card. So unbelievably cute and your neighbours will LOVE it! Thanks for the link to the tutorial - I am definitely going to make one of these.

{{hugs}} to you and Jay
Jocelyn

Susan (rainy) said...

I think the sunflower card is wonderful, Curt. But I so know what you're talking about when you get so tired of trying to "save" a card! lol Totally loving that punched puppy.. So cute! And the masking tape on the Halloween card is such a fabulous idea. Oh my gosh it is perfect for that mummy image. Hugs.

Ila said...

Congrats on all the followers Curt...I'm sure there will be many more!!
I too have my share of what I call a crap card day..lol. I think your card is still lovely though. I tend to give my crap cards to people I know really can't appreciate a home made card anyway.
Your doggy card and treat box are just the Cutest!! (love those ears!!)
Spooky Cute Mummy card..what a great idea to use masking tape!
Oh My!!..that halloween picture is Fabulous!!
Love the pic of the week...the bug really does look dressed for Halloween. Take Care...and Have a Great Week!!..Ila

The Rubber Maid said...

who's your "mummy"?? so cute and love the tape idea you came up with. Those buckeroo stamps from Mike's place are fab. Pat

mudmaven said...

I know just what you mean about working a card to death and still ending up hating it. It's an exercise in humility though that we all need once in a while. Love the doggy card and treat box - what a wonderful neighbor you are!!! That mummy card is just too cute too - you are a genius with recycled materials dude!!! Great bug pix too but those little "stinkers" are all over the place here and they smell so bad if you squish them. All the best to Jay and give those big boys a hug from me too. ~chris

p.s. the Jessica Spragueonline classes will make working with layers a snap!

Connie L. said...

Your problem card brought back fond memories - I'd gone to a stamp convention with a group of friends. One of them made the ugliest card we'd ever seen as a make & take. That card ended up being sent to each and every one of us in turn and we all added little comments about how beautiful it was and how lucky we were to receive it before passing it on to the next "lucky" recipient by mail. We have laughed so much and shared so many fun memories all because of that "ugly" card!

Mary Marsh said...

I know how you feel about the first card curt-been there a few times myself-but I do like the card and it would be a great one for someone who likes to garden-just a thought-your punhc art puppy is so sweet and the mummy card is cute-like the creative idea of using masking tape and distressed ink

Glittered Paws said...

Had "family issues" this week and just now got to your blog posts - WOW once again fantastic - love love love the dog treat cannister and I know your neighbors will love not only the treat box but their new puppy - I totally support rescue. Our rhodesian ridges are rescue girls. Cute cards this week and as always enjoy this weekly visit with you.

Lee said...

Hi Curt.I LOVE the sunflower card,so imaginative.I ADORE the dog card,the sentiment is so me Lol.LOVE the treat tin,still have mine,it will be used at Christmas.Quite like the Halloween card but i am not a fan of Halloween like Bonnie Lol.mmmmmm really not sure about your gift from your neighbour Lol,as long as you like it that's all that matters Lol.Hugs to all.xx ps.Love pic of the week.x

Susan said...

Thank you for noticing my new hair cut. Each time, I get it shorter than the last time. Too many other things to do to fuss with it. You are looking good, too. I love that puppy card and gift - so sweet. And that mummy card is precious - so clever of you to use masking tape like that! Also love that glow-eye thing! Great photo, too. Well, September is drawing to a close and October is almost here. You must be so excited! I hope this finds you and Jay and the boys doing well. I am sure that you don't know how very much your friendship means to me. Take care, my friend.

Sharli Schaitberger said...

Well, Curt, I love the sunflower card! So there.
The mummy card is fun - and the "tude" of your post is hilarious!
I always enjoy visiting with you!
Glad you like my hair!

Hugs!

Hey Jude said...

Hey Curt, I am still wiping away the tears of laughter from my eyes after reading about how much you "hate" your sunflower card. Believe me, I've been there too, but it seems soooo much funnier to hear you explain your frustration over a card not working out. Personally, I think you did a great job on resuscitating it. Love, love love the spine chilling glowing eyes on the photo. Great job on all your cards! I look forward to your candid comments and seeing your creations each and every week!

Lorraine said...

My hair is a little windswept due to spending the weekend on the beach with grandson Herbie on the small island of Guernsey (next to Jersey)but thanks for noticing. Love the mummy card, I know what you mean about some cards not turning out the way you would like them to be don`t beat yourself up I am sure next week`s will be fabulous. Hugs from Jersey U.K.

lisa808 said...

The punch art dog card and treat container are just too cute. What a great gift for the new addition to the neighborhood! Yes, I would say the gift from your neighbor has your name written all over it!

btw, thanks for noticing I had my hair trimmed and colored last week (lol).

Sue Ann said...

All I will say is that I feel about my hair and look right now like you feel about your first card which by the way ~~ you have a bunch of crazy talk about it. The mummy card it too cute ....... I want to make mummy cake pops for the kids for school. Another great post young man!!!

Ann Schach said...

Oh my gosh, Curt! I have been right there with you trying to save cards...that just do not want to be saved! lol The dog card is just too cute! I LOVE it. And your mummy card...I feel a case of the CASE coming on! And what I would not give to find one of the Halloween pictures with the illuminated eyes! Is that not fabby!!! Great post this week, Curt! Thank you for being such a great inspiration!

Linda said...

Hi Curt, Thanks for noticing my hair. LOL Now if I would have done something you would have had me with that opening.
I hate it when I feel that way about a card. I get an envelope and put it in my St Vinnie bag. Maybe someone can use it. Your card only looks bad to you.
I love the mummy card. It is so cute.
That picture from your neighbor is wonderful. Now you need to grow a beard. LOL
Have a wonderful week!
Hugs,
Linda

Tertia said...

Hi Curt, I am a bit worried. No post this week? Is Jay OK? Are you OK? The boys?
I must admit, the sunflower card? Not my favourite one of yours either, but then its great to know that even masters like you get it a little , well how shall I put it? Nope, can't find a word, because its not wrong, and it most certainly is not ugly, maybe its just not you.
LOVE the man and dog, your neighbour vertainly knows you very well.
Love the pic of the week too.
Congrats on reaching 300 followers, well deserved too, your blog is the highlight of my weekly travels around blogland.
Lots of hugs across the ocean

Shirley said...

What a really lovely Fall card! The colors are fantastic! Second, the perfect gift to welcome the new pet! Your third card is just so scary cute!! and fourth......That is one of the most unusual and fun Halloween things I have ever seen!!!