For Your Inspiration

FYI Challenge #24

2012-02-16T01:00:00.001-06:00

Greetings ya'll!

We're so glad to have you joining us for our next challenge here at FYI! There were some fantastic entries for our last challenge. Thanks to all who were able to join us!

Now, here's our next inspiration photo for you. I give you a very peaceful, tranquil landscape.

I love the peacefulness of this photo. The water looks so still and lovely. The greens are so vibrant that I want to lay out on a blanket and read a book in the middle of the grass. So, how are you inspired?

My Lovely Lotuses have created some fabulous projects for you. Check them out!

Debbie

Debby

Michelle

Peggy

Rochelle

Sara

Vicki

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 2/29.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI24, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Meet The New Lovely Lotuses!

2012-02-04T07:00:00.006-06:00

Hello!

I'm super excited that you've stopped by today to meet our three new Lovely Lotuses! We had some wonderful applicants, and it was difficult, but ultimately, I currently only had spots for three. Thank you to all who applied. I do hope you'll apply again when we have our next call.

Without further delay, I'd like to introduce you to:

Hi, my name is Karen Haman :) I started scrapbooking about 11 years ago and quickly found my way to making cards. I'm not sure I have a definitive style, but I do gravitate toward clean and simple. I am a stay-at-home mom to two girls, a couple cats, and a dog. My husband is very supportive of my crafting habit. My other addictive hobby is reading - just about anything!

Hello my name is Irena Kowalczyk (aka Rudlis).
I live in Poland with her husband and two children: son 21, daughter of the 18th.
I work as a teacher at the school.
My main passion is cardmaking, which I have been doing for the last 5 years or so.
I enjoy other techniques: origami, quilling, iris folding.
Papercrafting has been turned into a passion and stress-reliever!

I'm excited to be part of the team!

Crafting has been my passion from a very early age - I have enjoyed dressmaking, painting, tapestry and knitting, but papercrafting and cardmaking became my addiction around 10 years ago.

I am married, with a Daughter and Son and 5 grandchildren, and I live in West Yorkshire, in the UK.

I can't wait for you to see what they'll come up with! Check back on the 1st of March when their first projects will be posted.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #23

2012-02-02T01:00:00.013-06:00

Hello to everyone!

Welcome to the next challenge here at FYI! We were really blown away with all of the wonderful entries for our last challenge. Such a blessing to have all of you join us. So thankful! Don't forget to stop back on Saturday for our new DT announcement. I think you'll love the ladies joining our group!

We have a new sponsor this week, so I'm going to get right to it. Please help me welcome KennyK!

Digi and rubber stamps from KennyK are a fun and edgy way to add the perfect dose of attitude and style to all of your creations!

The creator, the artist, the man: KennyK is a NYC-born professional illustrator who has brought his funky-but-slick, urban-influenced look to the cardmaking and papercrafts world. His signature style can be seen throughout his various collections of sexy pinup babes, sweet 'n sassy girls, cool rockin' dudes, kid’s stuff, retro characters and more at: www.kennykdownloads.com.

Kenny and Elena were super fabulous, and allowed us to use a few of their images. We do hope you'll check out their online store. Such fun digis!

Now, onto our inspiration photo. I give you, one of the most interesting looking churches I've ever seen.

Isn't it cool?! I chose this photo because of the architecture, and because it is a church that looks like this. lol I'm assuming the acoustics inside are absolutely amazing. I loved the pop of black and white against the pretty blue sky as well. So, how are you inspired?

My Lovely Lotuses have created some fantastic projects for you. Check it!

What lovely projects, as usual!

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 2/15.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI23, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Lovely Lotus & Random Winner for Challenge #21

2012-01-29T22:09:00.000-06:00

Hello!

I apologize for the delay in posting this. Things have been, well, insane around here. Without further chit chat below are our Lovely Lotus and Random winner for challenge #21.

Lovely Lotus - #10 Karen!

And the random winner is: #9 Tameko!

Congratulations ladies! Please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for all of the details.

Have a great week!

FYI Challenge #22

2012-01-19T01:00:00.014-06:00

Hello!

Welcome to the next challenge here at FYI! We had some awesome participation for our last challenge. Wow, you guys are really rockin those inspiration photos! Thanks to all who were able to participate. Before I forget, our DT call is still open. You can find all of the details HERE.

Onto our inspiration photo. I give you, one of the prettiest landscapes I've seen in a while.

I absolutely adore this photo! The contrast of the bright vibrant oranges and the deep greens are just gorgeous. I love how the reflections on the water and the small, almost hidden bridge, add just the right touches to the photo. So, how are you inspired?

My Lovely Lotuses have come up with some beautiful inspiration projects for you. I think you'll agree.

Wow, I love them all!

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 2/1.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI22, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Happy Crafting!

FYI Challenge #21 & Design Team Call

2012-01-05T01:00:00.011-06:00

Happy New Year to all of our friends!

Welcome to the first FYI challenge of 2012! We hope you've had a great start to your new year, and also hope that you are continued to be blessed as the year goes on. We had some wonderful entries last challenge. Thanks so much to all who were able to participate. We will be back on the 13th to announce our next Lovely Lotus and random winner. I've got lots to share today, so let's get to it!

First of all, I'm sad to say that we will be losing Peggy and Keva at the end of February. They've been wonderful additions to the team, but are going to focus on family and other crafty opportunities. With that being said, I'm looking to add a couple more designers to the group. If you're interested, email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) with all of your contact information, your blog address, and three of your best projects. I'd like to hear a bit about yourself as well. You can apply through the 31st, and the new DT members will be notified by the 4th of February. The new term starts on March 1st.

Since it's the first challenge of the month, we have an awesome new sponsor. Please help me show some love for The Wax Fruit Company!

All about me & the Wax Fruit Company...

I'm Arielle, I work full time and design in the wee hours of the morning. I was born in southeast Alabama, moved away to New Orleans a couple years & northern California for 5 & came back 'home' to settle down. I'm married to Jeff, truly the love of my life & we have 2 children - Alex (3.5 yrs) and Maisie Grace (2 yr). Life is so much more interesting and amazing through the eyes of your children! I love to stamp & paper craft, and began digital scrapping this past year. But before that I was an artist (printmaking/painting/drawing) for fun and digital graphic designer by trade. Now I doodle around and make some digital stamps and sentiments here & there. I've been on a break the last couple months from image designing, but am looking forward to starting the new year with some brand new images!

You must check out her store! Arielle is so nice, and has been generous in offering a $15 gift voucher to her store to one lucky, random participant. She was also super awesome in allowing me and my girls to use a few of her images for this challenge as well. Just wait till you see what they've come up with!

Now, onto this weeks inspiration photo. I give you, a most gorgeous balcony.

I love how it looks like there's something glowing up in the background, by the window. The neutral colors, against the darker ones are so calming, and the architecture is stunning. So, how are you inspired?

As mentione previously, my Lovely Lotuses have rocked this challenge. Check it!

Debbie

Debby

Michelle

Peggy

Rochelle

Sara

Steph

Vicki

Didn't I tell you they rocked it?! *happy sigh*

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 1/18.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI21, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #19 Lovely Lotus & Random Winner

2011-12-23T01:00:00.000-06:00

Greetings!

We had some amazing entries for challenge #19! Thanks to all who were able to join us. We were all in agreement with the choice for our Lovely Lotus Award. Congrats to:

#8 - Mindy!

Isn't her card just fabulous?! My gosh, what a super sweet card. Since challenge #19 was also a sponsored challenge, we have a random winner as well. Congrats to:

#5 - NanaConnie!

Ladies, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for all of the details.

Don't forget, you still have plenty of time to join us for Challenge #20. You can find all of the details HERE.

Stay crafty my friends!

FYI Challenge #20

2011-12-15T01:00:00.015-06:00

Hello to all!

Welcome to the next challenge here at FYI! This will be the last challenge of 2011, and you'll have an extra week to play along. We are taking a break to enjoy the holidays and will return with our next challenge on January 5th. We had many lovely creations posted last challenge. Thanks to all who were able to join. As always, we truly appreciate your support. The Lovely Lotus award for challenge #19 and random winner will be posted on Friday, 12/23, so don't forget to check back then!

For this challenge, I give you one of the most inspiring views I've ever seen.

I love how the water is so peaceful and reflects the sun and clouds. I also love the dark earth set against the brightness from the sun. The clouds look gorgeous against the dark sky and off in the distance you can see a bit of snowcapped mountain tops. *sigh* I'm in love with this photo! So, how are you inspired?

Our fabulous designers have created some amazing inspiration for you again this week. I'm in awe every week. If you'd like more details on each designers card, click on their name to be taken to their blog.

What a great way to end the year! We do hope you'll find the time to join us for this challenge. We can't wait to see what you create!

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 1/4.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI20, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Lovely Lotus Challenge #18 & Random Winner Redraw

2011-12-09T01:00:00.004-06:00

Hello everyone!

We had some wonderful submissions for challenge #18! Thanks again to all who were able to join us. We had a difficult time choosing our Lovely Lotus for this challenge, but ultimately, we were able to pick one that we thought was the best fit. You guys are really making it hard for us to pick just one these days! lol Here is our pick for the Lovely Lotus award for challenge #18.

Congrats to #4 - Karen!

Isn't her card gorgeous?! Wow!

Since we never heard from our lucky random winner of the Paper Pretties Digi's from challenge #17, I have had my friend Mr. Random.org, pick a new winner from that challenge. So congrats to:

#6 - Marlena M!

Please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the details please ladies! Don't forget, you still have time to join us for challenge #19! You can find it HERE.

Have a wonderful weekend!

FYI Challenge #19

2011-12-01T01:00:00.016-06:00

Greetings!

Welcome to the next challenge here at FYI! We had some lovely entries for our last challenge, and are thankful for all who were able to join us. We will have the next Lovely Lotus posted on Friday, 12/9, so don't forget to check back then to see who we've chosen.

It's the first challenge of the month, and we're being sponsored by one of my favorites, Sparkle Creations Rubber Stamps!

SCRS has some of the most adorable images. I'm a bit partial to anything with "Josh", because that's my BIL's name, and he gets birthday cards with him on them. lol Not to mention Sparkle is just the sweetest ever! If you haven't checked out the SCRS store, you should head over there to see what I'm talking about. You can find them HERE. Sparkle is being super generous and offering the following stamps to one lucky participant.

See?! Aren't they adorable? I do hope you'll get the opportunity to join us for a chance to win these cute stamps!

Now, I've got another announcement. I've added another fabulous designer to the group. Please help me welcome Rochelle Washington to the Lovely Lotus Design Team! She is amazingly talented, and when I realized what she was capable of, I had to have her on the team. Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

Hello my name is Rochelle Washington and I'm an addict! A paper crafting addict that is. I am married to the most supportive and wonderful man EVER and we have a son that is so supreme, so amazing that we named him after Jean Luc Picard of the Star Trek Enterprise (We named him Picard...I'm a Trekkie...don't judge. LOL!). I work as an Admin for an Architecture firm but, when I have a free moment I'm making SOMETHING! I've been a die hard paper crafter for approximately two years but, I've been crafting in some form or another as long as I can remember. I'm mostly a card maker but, I do enjoy creating tags, ATCs and mini albums. There is instant gratification when you make a card. With my hectic schedule, I like to be able to see results quickly! I'm so grateful to be given an opportunity to design for the For Your Inspiration Challenge blog! The design team is very talented and I'm always inspired by their creations. Well...what are we waiting on? LET'S GET INKY!!!

I can't wait to show you what she's done! But first, here is the inspiration photo for this challenge.

I'm completely in love with the rich, deep, vibrant colors in this photo. I love how the lit buildings reflect on the water, and how the architecture of those buildings and the bridge are set against the sunset. I'm told by my Lovely Lotus, Michelle, that this is a photo of her hometown of Brisbane. I'd love to visit and get to see this for myself. Wouldn't it be fantastic to be out in the water, on a boat, around this time? So, how are you inspired?

Our Lovely Lotuses have created some wonderful projects for you this week. Check it!

I'm totally blown away this week!

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 12/14.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI19, so that we can make sure to leave some love

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #17 Lovely Lotus and Random Winner

2011-11-25T01:00:00.004-06:00

Hello!

We, at FYI, hope that you and your families have had a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday! Hopefully, you've eaten lots of delicious food and done nothing but spend time with the ones who mean the most to you. :)

Another great group of projects were entered for challenge #17. Again, my lovelies were pretty unanimous in their choice for the Lovely Lotus Award.

Congratulations to # - Hazel!

Here is her beautiful card.

Also, since challenge #17 was a sponsored challenge, we have a random winner.

Congrats to #8 - Peggy R!

Ladies, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for all of the details. Don't forget, you still have time to join us for challenge #18, by clicking HERE.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #18

2011-11-17T01:00:00.001-06:00

Greetings!

Welcome to challenge #18 here at FYI! We're excited to bring you our next inspiration photo and projects. We hope you'll enjoy them. There were some beautiful entries for our last challenge. Thank you to all who were able to participate. We will be posting the Lovely Lotus award, and random winner of the Paper Pretties digis, for that challenge on Friday, 11/25. Don't forget to check back then.

Onto this weeks challenge. Here is our gorgeous inspiration photo.

The person who took this photo was one lucky photographer. I am completely breathtaken by this view. The magnificent sunrise (or sunset), the different textures and sharp edges of the rocks, the way you can see for miles from this point, the brilliant colors. All amazing. I've come to the realization that I need to try to prioritize my life better to make the time to see these kinds of views for myself. Life's short and I don't want to miss anything. So, how are you inspired?

My Lovelies have created some absolutely stunning projects for you today. I think you'll agree that they've really outdone themselves this challenge. Here they are!

Debbie

Debby

Keva

Michelle

Peggy

Sara

Vicki

Wow, talk about spectacular! *happy sigh*

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 11/30.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI18, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #16 Lovely Lotus

2011-11-13T21:14:00.000-06:00

Hello!

I do apologize for the huge delay in getting this posted. Things have been a bit crazy, and I didn't get around to it until now. There were tons of gorgeous projects entered for challenge #16. It was a difficult choice, but we have chosen our Lovely Lotus for that challenge.

Congratulations to #5 - Lizaveta!

Here is her gorgeous layout.

Please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so that I can get the Lovely Lotus blinkie to you. Congrats again!

Have a great day!

FYI Challenge #17

2011-11-03T01:00:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the next challenge here at FYI! We had some gorgeous entries last challenge, wow! What fabulous interpretations of the inspiration photo. We're so blessed to have your participation, thank you! Our next Lovely Lotus will be announced on Friday, 11/11. Don't forget to check back to see who it is.

Before I get to this month's sponsor, I have an announcement to make. We have decided to add another designer to our group. I know you know who this amazingly talented woman is, and I'm super excited that she's joining the team. Please help me welcome Vicki Dutcher! Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

I am so excited to be on this Team! I love great inspiration and this site has ROCKIN' inspiration photos!

I have been stamping [heavily] over the last 3 years, but officially I started 12 years ago. Like most stampers out there, I went to a Stampin Up party and I was hooked! So many years later, so many stamps, supplies, and paper later - I have my own stamping room which is my domain! All I do is stamp [hence my blog name] and I love this hobby! I can't wait to see all your inspired photos!! Thanks Steph for having me on the Team!!

Now, onto this months sponsor, Paper Pretties.

Paper Pretties – Where YOUR Creativity Comes To Life!

Paper Pretties is an online stamp boutique, and home to Zac, Lily, Sophia and Cooper – the cutest kid stamps around! (At least we think so). We have many exclusive stamp lines, from elegant to whimsical, sweet to clever; there is something for every stamper in our Prettie Boutique! In addition to our high quality clear stamps we also have a wide variety of digital images. In case you haven't heard yet, Paper Pretties has a NEW owner, Heather Lee-Reppen. Now located in Madison, WI, we are pleased to offer you amazing customer service and faster/cheaper shipping. All orders are shipped within 24 hours.

Heather has been very generous in offering 5 free digi's to one lucky participant. She was also super sweet and let our designers work with their choice of digi for this challenge. We hope you'll be able to join us, for a chance to win some of the cutest images out there.

As always, we have another fabulous guest designer as well! Please help me welcome Tara Cardwell (Craftilicious). Here is a bit about Tara, in her own words as well.

Hi, my real name is Tara but in blog land I tend to go by the name of Craftilicious - a combination of my favourite hobbies - crafting and cooking delicious food :-) I have been crafting for as long as I can remember - as an only child I loved anything you could play with alone so I didn't have to wait for friends to play with me and was never happier than when I was given new pens and colouring books. As a teenager I took to making jewellery as presents as it made my pocket money go further and then I got into cross stitch and embroidery and cooking and have been hooked on anything crafty ever since. About 4 years ago I began to dabble in rubber stamping and rediscovered my childhood love of pens and colouring - I now have a small craft room litterally bursting at the seams with all the wonderful new products that make card making and papercrafting such a joy. Since I started my blog and found the online world of challenges I think this is a passion that is going to live with me for a very long time to come. I am so thrilled that the super-talented ladies at "For Your Inspiration" picked my card as their winner and am honoured to be joining them as a Guest DT member for this great new inspiration photo - hope you like my interpretation of it and I can't wait to see what everyone else come up with. If you want to find out what I used then pop to my blog for the details.

So, now onto this weeks inspiration photo.

I love the tranquility and the somewhat simplicity of this photo. It just looks so peaceful to me. The contrast of the light and dark are striking, and the addition of the architecture of the house itself is just gorgeous. I also love the reflection of everything on the water. I would totally dig living in a house like this. So, how are you inspired?

This week my Lovelies, and our guest designer, have put together some gorgeous projects, based on the photo. Here is what they are sharing with you this week.

Debbie

Debby

Michelle

Peggy

Sara

Steph

Tara (Guest Designer)

Vicki

See? Gorgeous!

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 11/16.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. No backlinking please. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI17, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #15 - Lovely Lotus and Random Winner

2011-10-28T01:00:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone!

There were some lovely cards entered for challenge #15. We were unanimous on our choice for the Lovely Lotus award.

Congratulations to #2 - Vicki!

Here is the gorgeous card she created based on the inspiration photo.

And, because challenge #15 was a sponsored challenge, we have a random winner as well.

Congratulations to #3 - Kathleen!

Ladies, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com), for details.
Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #16

2011-10-20T01:00:00.003-05:00

Welcome!

We are so glad to have you visiting us for our next challenge! Thank you to all who joined us last week. There were some fabulous entries. Our Lovely Lotus and random winner of 7 Bugaboo Digi's will be posted on Friday, 10/28. Don't forget to check back then to see who was chosen.

We have another wonderful guest designer joining us this challenge. Please help me welcome Erum! Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

Hello everyone! I am E.T. of VIBGYOR Krafts from Karachi, Pakistan. I am a servant to 30 cats! Yup I am! Apart from crafting, this is what I do :) Quite a few of my cats (then kittens) were just newborn when I rescued them from road side or from big fat black ants.They required urgent care so I brought them home. I cant see an animal being left to die on the road side. That's me, a total softie when it comes to animals.

I am so honoured that the team at FYI chose my creation as the lovely lotus. Steph sent me a gorgeous inspiration picture and I kinda knew what I wanted to do. I hope you guys like my card enough to stop by my blog and leave a bit of love :)

Onto the inspiration photo. For this weeks challenge, I give you, one of the most magical looking forests I've seen.

I love how the colors make this forest seem almost fairy tale like. They are bright and cheerful, and I can just imagine what kinds of fairies and butterflies would live in a place such as this. lol So, how are you inspired?

Our Lovely Lotuses and guest designer have come up with some beautiful projects for you this week. Check them out!

Debbie

Debby

Erum (guest designer)

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI16, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #14 Lovely Lotus

2011-10-15T10:24:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

I apologize for the delay in posting this. Life has been a bit crazy. Here is our choice for Challenge #14 Lovely Lotus.

Congratulations #7 - Craftilicious!

Here is her beautiful card.

Please send me an email (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the Lovely Lotus blinkie and information on being a guest designer.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #15

2011-10-06T01:00:00.017-05:00

Hello!!

Welcome to the next challenge here at For Your Inspiration! We had some amazing participation last challenge, and can't wait to pick our next Lovley Lotus. Thanks to all who were able to join us. Check back on Friday, 10/14, to see who we've chosen.

It's the first challenge of the month, and with that, brings a new sponsor! I'm so excited! Go figure, huh?! We are being sponsored by the adorable and hilarious Bugaboo Stamps this challenge.

You must check out their images. I love most of them, and if I could afford it, I'd probably own most of them. lol They being generous in offering our random winner for this challenge 7 digis of their choice. Awesome, right?! You can visit them HERE. They also have a challenge blog that you can visit HERE.

We also have another wonderful guest designer joining us this challenge. Please help me welcome, Maria Matter. Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

Hi, I'm Maria and I'm excited to be guest designing with the For Your Inspiration team! I have been stamping/cardmaking for 3 years now and consider it a ministry of Joy! My husband & I have been married for 24 years and run our family business, we have four children which we have homeschooled from the start! Certainly a life which keeps me on my toes! I also host a linky party every week called Inspire Me Fridays, where I feature crafters and their blogs! Come visit me at Joyful Stamper.

Without rambling on and on some more, here is this weeks inspiration photo.

I LOVE this photo! Cathedrals are one of my favorite things to visit when on vacation, if at all possible. Wouldn't you love to attend a service in a place that looked like this?! I sure would! I love how your drawn to all of the colors equally, in my opinion. And they're all beautifully set against the sharp architecture of the building itself. So elegant looking. So, how are you inspired?

My Lovely Lotuses have provided some wonderful inspiration for you, as usual. We were lucky enough to have been provided with some super cute Bugaboo digis to use, and we are also being joined by two of the Bugaboo DT gals. Please feast your eyes on these beauties!

Jackie Rakoski (Bugaboo DT)

Lola Cordova (Bugaboo DT)

Debbie

Debby

Keva

Maria (Guest Designer)

Michelle

Peggy

Sara

Steph

See?! I told ya, beautiful!

Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 10/19.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI15, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #13 - Lovely Lotus and Random Winner

2011-09-23T06:20:00.000-05:00

Greetings!!

There were several wonderful entries for challenge #13. We're so blessed to have you play along with us each challenge. Without further delay though, here are challenge #13 Lovely Lotus and our first Random.org winner who will receive a $10 credit to the Sweet and Sassy online store.

Challenge #13 Lovely Lotus is: #3 - E.T! Here is her gorgeous card.

And, the Challenge #13 random winner is: #8- Crafty Math Chick!

Ladies, please send me an email (onecraftychica@gmail.com) with your contact info so that I can get everything to you.

Don't forget, you still have time to play along with challenge #14. You can find all of the details HERE.

Have a great day!

FYI Challenge #14

2011-09-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Hello!

What a fabulous time we had last challenge. You guys really brought it with your projects too! Thanks to all who were able to join us. We are going to have so much fun going through and choosing our Lovely Lotus for challenge #13. Don't forget to check back on Friday, 9/23, to find out who our Lovely Lotus and random winners are.

So, onto this weeks challenge. I give you, one of the most gorgeous ocean views I've ever seen.

I love the contrast of the light and dark colors, and the sharp edges of the cliffs against the slightly rippled water. I also love how it looks as if something had been thrown into the water to make the clouds "splash" against the sky. Everything about this photo makes me smile. So, how are you inspired?

Joining the Lovely Lotus design team this week is another fabulous guest designer. Please help me welcome Jennifer Rzasa. Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

My name is Jennifer Rzasa, and I am a 28 yr old music teacher (1st-5th grade). I live with my husband in MA, about 25 min outside of Boston. I love performing, skateboarding, playing video games, and crafting. I have pretty busy days- after work I often teach private violin/viola/piano lessons, but when I get come home I make sure to save time to play with paper! My style is definitely CAS. In addition to my card-making adventures, I also paint (mostly watercolor fashion illustrations), make jewelry, and do pretty much anything else I can get my hands on!

Here is her gorgeous, CAS card based on the photo. Isn't it wonderful?!

And here are the amazing projects by our fantastic design team.

Wow, SO inspiring! As always, we look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 10/5.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI14, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

Stay crafty my friends!

Challenge #12 - Lovely Lotus

2011-09-09T01:00:00.001-05:00

Hello to all!

Wow, we had some great participation for Challenge #12! You all are making it very difficult for us to choose a favorite these days. Way to go! So after reviewing all of the entries, we have chosen our Lovely Lotus for challenge #12.

Congratulations to #20 - Maria Matter!

Here is her beautiful and adorable card.

Maria, please send me an email (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the Lovely Lotus blinkie, and for information on being a future guest designer.

I do hope you all have a lovely day!

FYI Challenge #13

2011-09-01T01:00:00.024-05:00

Good day to all!

I'm SO excited! Today there is lots to share. First, I'd like to thank all of you who participated in last weeks challenge. We had some amazing entries, and can't wait to visit them all and pick a favorite. Now, onto the next order of business. lol I'd like to introduce you to my two new Lovely Lotus designers. Please help me welcome Peggy Toole and Michelle Folland! Here is a bit about them, in their own words.

Hi my name is Peggy Toole and I am a stay at home mom to 3 great boys who are 11, 12 and 15 and have a wonderful husband who is very understanding about my stamping obsession! We live in the Shuswap, part of the Northern Okanagan in beautiful British Columbia. I have been stamping seriously now for about 3 years and love this hobby and all the wonderful people I've been lucky enough to meet so far! I was thrilled to be asked to join the lovely FYI team and can't wait to get started!

Hi, I'm Michelle. I am a married to a gorgeous guy and we have two beautiful girls. I have loved to craft my whole life, and I think I've tried just about everything. As a child of the 70s, I learned all about macrame, batik, and tie-dyeing. I have tried knitting, crochet, and cross-stitch. I dabbled briefly with decoupage. I even made my own wedding invitations. If only I knew then what I know now! Three years ago I was invited to a stamping workshop, and that was the true start of my paper-crafting adventures. It started with me thinking that I'd make my Christmas cards that year, and I haven't bought a card from a store ever since. Card making gives me much needed creative outlet and relaxation from daily life. When I'm thinking colours, textures, and design, I'm not thinking about anything else, it's so refreshing. I started blogging late last year, and shored up my courage to start entering challenges in January this year. What a great way to stretch your creativity! With my real life and blog-land friends to provide inspiration, I can see years of card-making fun stretching ahead of me.

I'm sure you're going to enjoy their projects over the next six months. I'm already giddy with excitement with the projects my team have come up with today, and there will be tons more inspiration coming your way! So excited!

As mentioned, I also have some awesome news about things here at the FYI blog. Beginning this month, we will now have sponsors! Yep, the first challenge of each month is now going to be a sponsored challenge. We have been lucky enough to have some amazing and generous sponsors providing some wonderful prizes for one lucky, random, winner each month along with our favorite "Lovely Lotus" award. So on that note, I give you our first sponsor, Sweet & Sassy Stamps!

Sweet 'n Sassy Stamps is a Christian clear stamp and digi stamp company offering a wide variety of hand drawn designs and sentiments, perfect for any stamper or scrapbooker. Our images are from the hart and we they will inspire you to create beautiful projects from your heart. Check us out at: www.http://sweetnsassystamps.com

We also have another great guest designer joining us this week. Please help me welcome Deb Frings! Here is a bit about her, in her own words as well.

I was excited and delighted when I discovered that I’d been selected Lovely Lotus for challenge 10. And I’m thrilled to be joining you as Guest Designer for Challenge 13 – with such a beautiful inspiration photo. I’ve been crafting in some form or another since I was little – I used to make little books, moved onto embroidery and sewing, then later I was seriously hooked on cross-stitch. I’ve always taken photos and made scrapbooks – not like the lovely albums that you can get now with the beautiful papers and embellishments, but basic memory books. And from time to time I made cards too. One Christmas I received a really lovely handmade card – I was so touched that to receive something made especially for me. And I started from there. Initially, it was in a small way – I had a couple of boxes with papers, cards, stamps, ribbons etc and I had lots of fun. It was when we moved to North Wales in 2006 that I became seriously hooked – and my small craft room exploded and is now full of stash – and I still have lots of fun!

Are you as excited as I am?! My gosh, talk about a fabulous start! For this weeks challenge, I give you, one of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen.

I've personally never been to France, but it's on my list of places to visit. I will be standing at the bottom of this lovely tower, looking up at it, someday. I love the dark sunset against the lit tower, and the architecture of the tower in general. I also love the old buildings in the photo with their rustic look. So, how are you inspired?

Here are the gorgeous projects my Lovely Lotuses have created for you today. We were lucky to have been provided with some beautiful digi stamps from our sponsor this month. Check out what they did with them.

Deb - Guest Designer

Debbie

Debby

Keva (on vacation this week)

Talk about lovely! As always, we look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 9/14.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI13, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

I'm exhausted with excitement! lol Have fun my friends!

Challenge #11 - Lovely Lotus

2011-08-26T01:00:00.007-05:00

Greetings!!

As mentioned last week, we had some amazing participation for Challenge #11. We had such a great time looking at each of the entries. While all of the projects were wonderful, we could only choose one for the Lovely Lotus award. So, the Lovely Lotus award for Challenge #11 goes to:

#19 - Jennifer

Isn't her card just gorgeous in it's simplicity?! I LOVE her interpretation of the inspiration photo. Congratulations Jennifer! Please send me an email (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so that I can get the Lovely Lotus blinkie to you.

Don't forget you still have a few days left to join us for Challenge #12, found HERE.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #12

2011-08-18T01:00:00.003-05:00

Greetings everyone!

My goodness we had some amazing participation last challenge! I'm SO excited to have ya'll joining us! We can't wait to go through all of the entries and choose our Lovely Lotus. I will be posting our favorite on Friday, 8/26. Don't forget to check back for that.

Today's post is slightly bittersweet. I can't believe how quickly six months have gone by. It is with a bit of sadness that we have to say goodbye to Valerie and Wanda. Their projects have been gorgeous, and I'm blessed to have had them on my inaugural design team here at FYI. We all wish them the best in everything. On a happier note, I have two new designers joining us in September, whom I think you'll really enjoy. I also have some exciting news! I hope you'll check back on the 1st to see what all the excitement is about.

For this weeks challenge I give you one of the most vibrant landscapes I've seen.

When I lived in Colorado, I remember being amazed at the view in the fall, from the Aspens changing color. The red, yellow and orange always looked like they were on fire and set against the deep blue sky, as they are here, always made me smile. So, how are you inspired?

We have another wonderful guest designer joining us this week. Please help me welcome Chunyuan! Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

My name is Chunyuan Wu. I am so honored to be guest designer for For Your Inspiration Challenge # 12. I discovered the amazing world of paper crafts a few months ago when I decided to help my preschooler make his valentines cards instead of buying. I was hooked since then. I love the process of card making that helps bring out my inner creative spirit. I love all aspects of paper crafts – color, pattern, embellishments, and techniques. Now, I have become a voracious reader of the online world of card making blogs. I feel so privileged to be part of this inspiring community!

Chunyuan has done a fabulous job with the inspiration photo. Look at how gorgeous her card is!

My lovelies have closed out the first term on an absolute high. Aren't they gorgeous?!

Debbie

Debby

Keva

Sara

Valerie

Wanda

As always, we look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 8/31.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI12, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

*happy sigh*

Challenge #10 - Lovely Lotus

2011-08-12T01:00:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone!

I have to say, there were some beautiful entries for Challenge #10. You guys are really rockin these inspiration challenges. My lovelies were unanimous in their choice for our Lovely Lotus.

Congrats to #1 - Deb!

This is the gorgeous card she submitted.

Isn't it lovely? She did an awesome job. Deb, please get in touch with me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so that I can send you our Lovely Lotus blinkie and info on being a guest designer.

Don't forget, you still have time to enter Challenge #11, found HERE.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #11

2011-08-04T01:00:00.002-05:00

Hello!

Welcome to another challenge here at For Your Inspiration. We had some wonderful entries for our last challenge and can't wait to start choosing our Lovely Lotus. It will be posted on Friday, 8/12, so don't forget to check back then.

For this weeks challenge, I give you, one of the most beautifully reflective landscapes I've seen in a while.

I absolutely adore this photo. I love how beautiful and still the reflection on the water mirrors the actual architecture of the ruins, and how the sun seems to be "spotlighting" one part. I'm totally breathtaken. It's too bad I can't live here. lol So, how are you inspired?

I'm excited that we have another guest joining us this week. Please help me welcome Hazel! Hazel was our Lovely Lotus from Challenge #7. Here is a bit about her, in her own words.

For as long as I can remember, I have been interested in crafting of some sort or another, hence the name Craftyhazelnut! As a child I was often ill and off school, so my time was quite often taken up with some form of crafting. I used to love collecting shoe boxes etc and making 'cribs' for dolls and making bedding for them and knitted clothes for the dolls. I loved doing anything that required cutting, sticking ...

Before I was in junior school I learned to do embroidery (it was very much a family activity - nan, mum, aunties ...) and I can't remember how old I was when I started to knit, but certainly I was making jumpers before I was in secondary school.

In teenage years and my twenties I started to do dressmaking - at one stage I used to make a lot of my own dresses, suits etc and also lots of clothes for my niece. I also learned to crochet.

For a few years, with work commitments, etc., crafty things fell into the background a bit, but until fairly recently I always had some knitting or crocheting on the go.

Cross stitching is how I got into cardmaking, then started to produce cards on the computer and then I discovered that I loved stamping, patterned papers, inks, scrapbooking, altering …

And here is her beautiful card.

My Lovely Lotuses have outdone themselves this week as well. Check them out!

Debbie

Debby

Keva

Sara

Valerie

Wanda

Aren't they gorgeous?! We always look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 8/17.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI11, so that we can make sure to leave some love
Have a wonderful day!

Challenge #9 - Lovely Lotus

2011-07-30T10:55:00.000-05:00

Hello!

We're always so thrilled to see what amazing projects ya'll come up with, based on the inspiration photos. Each challenge we have a harder time choosing, but that's good! I'm so glad that ya'll are able to participate when you can. Without further delay, our Lovely Lotus for Challenge #9 is:

#6 - Chunyuan!

For this lovely card.

Congrats Chunyuan! Please send me an email (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so that I can get the Lovely Lotus blinkie to you.

Don't forget that you still have time to join in on Challenge #10, which is open until the 3rd. You can view the challenge HERE.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #10

2011-07-21T01:00:00.005-05:00

Greetings to all!

Welcome to challenge #10 here at FYI. We had some beautiful entries in our last challenge. You guys are awesome! Thanks a bunch to all who were able to join us. We will be announcing our Lovely Lotus for challenge #9 on Friday, 7/29.

Onto this weeks inspiration photo. For this challenge, I give you, one of the most peaceful looking set of steps I've ever seen.

I love how the shades of red pop against the steps and rock. I can totally imagine myself sitting on one of the steps reading a book, or watching people walk by. It looks so quiet and serene. So, how are you inspired?

We're excited to have a guest joining us this week. Michelle was our Lovely Lotus for challenge #8, and was kind enough to be our guest for this challenge. Here is her beautiful card.

I love her interpretation of the photo. And here are the cards made for you by my lovelies this challenge.

Debby

Debbie

Keva

Sara

Valerie

Wanda

I love how beautiful they all turned out! They never cease to amaze me. We always look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 8/3.

Challenge #8 - Lovely Lotus

2011-07-16T13:56:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!

I apologize for the delay, but things have been pretty crazy around here. Please help me in congratulating our Challenge #8 Lovely Lotus:

#1 - Michelle!

Here is her beautiful card.

Talk about gorgeous, huh?! Michelle, please send me an email (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so that I can get the Lovely Lotus blinkie to you.

Don't forget Challenge #9 is still open, should you like to play along. The photo is amazing!!

FYI Challenge #9

2011-07-07T01:00:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

Welcome to Challenge #9 here at FYI. It's hard to believe that we're at challenge 9 already. It has been a lot of fun so far, and we are always so inspired by your interpretations of the inspiration photos. As usual, we had some awesome entries for challenge #8. We will be posting our Lovely Lotus on Friday, 7/15. Don't forget to check back to see which entry was our favorite.

I'm always amazed at how the simplest of things can be so beautiful. Photographers always seem to have the best eye for capturing these things, and how lucky are we that they share them with us. This weeks inspiration photo is one of my absolute favorites. For this challenge, I give you, one of the most breathtaking places to sit and read.

I love how the cloudy sky and architecture of the library are reflected on the water. I love how the blue is contrasted by the colorful stained glass windows, and how it seems like everything is just floating peacefully. So, how are you inspired?

I'm totally amazed at how each of my lovelies come up with such different projects based on the same photo. This week, they're nothing short of gorgeous, as usual!

Debbie

Debby

Keva

Sara

Valerie

Wanda

Aren't they fabulous?! We always look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 7/20.

Challenge #7 - Lovely Lotus

2011-06-24T07:00:00.003-05:00

Wow, thanks to all of you who joined us for Challenge #7. My ladies have all voted, and the Lovely Lotus for Challenge #7 is: Hazel! Here is the lovely card she created.

Isn't it fabulous?! I love all of the details. Great job Hazel! Please send me your address (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so we can get your Sparkle Creations Rubber Stamp out to you, and for the Lovely Lotus blinkie and for information on being a guest designer.

Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

FYI Challenge #8

2011-06-16T01:00:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

There were more fantastic entries last challenge. Thank you to those who were able to join us. We will be posting the Lovely Lotus for Challenge #7 on Friday, 6/24, so don't forget to come back and check out who that is. So, onto the challenge photo.

For this challenge, I give you, a very serene scene.

I love how the colors of the waterfall are contrast against the dark rocks. The sharp edges of the rocks with the soft looking bushes are very cool together as well. So, how are you inspired?

This week the Lovely Lotuses have put together more fabulous projects for you. Check them out!

Debbie

Debby

Keva

Sara

Valerie

Wanda

Aren't they wonderful? I think it's awesome how each persons interpretation is different. So many wonderful outcomes. We always look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 6/29.

Happy Crafting!

Challenge #6 Lovely Lotus

2011-06-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

Hello to all!

Wow, talk about some inspiring cards posted for Challenge #6! Ya'll did a fantastic job with the inspiration photo. Wasn't it fabulous?! It was a difficult decision, but my Lovely Lotuses have come to a decision. Congratulations to lucky # 2 - Suzanne Dean!! Here is the card she created for Challenge #6.

I LOVE everything about this card! It's amazing! All of the details are just perfect. Suzanne, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) with your address so that we can get the Lovely Lotus blinkie and your goodies out to you.

Don't forget Challenge #7 is still open. We have a wonderful sponsor. You can find it HERE.

Have a great weekend!

FYI Challenge #7

2011-06-02T01:00:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone!

Have we got a super challenge for you! We had some amazing entries last challenge and will have a most difficult time choosing our Lovely Lotus. Gosh, you guys really rocked that challenge, well done! Ok, so onto the photo.

For this weeks challenge, I give you, one of the most beautiful lighthouses I've ever seen.

I absolutely adore the architecture against the soft sunset. It's breathtaking! So, how are you inspired?

This weeks challenge has a special guest. I absolutely love her, and she's being very generous to us this week. Please help me welcome Sparkle Smith, of Sparkle Creations Rubber Stamps.

Sparkle is offering one lucky participant one of her adorable stamps, Charlotte with a Rose. Isn't she lovely?

Sparkle was also nice enough to join us for this weeks challenge. Check out her amazing card!

My Lovely Lotuses have also created some amazing cards for this weeks challenge as well.

Goodness, another fabulous week of inspiration, I must say! We always look forward to what you'll come up with. Remember, your interpretation of the photo is just that, your interpretation. There's no right or wrong. Just tell us a bit about how you were inspired as sometimes it isn't obvious. And, don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 6/15.

Happy Crafting!

Challenge #5 Lovely Lotus

2011-05-29T08:54:00.000-05:00

Good day to all!

Thanks again to all who joined us for Challenge #5. There were some wonderful entries. My ladies have spoken, and the Lovely Lotus for Challenge #5 is none other than the fabulous #5 - Teresa! Check out her amazing card.

Isn't it gorgeous?! She never ceases to inspire. Teresa please get in touch with me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) so that I can get the Lovely Lotus blinkie to you.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #6

2011-05-19T01:00:00.006-05:00

Hi everyone!

Welcome to Challenge #6 here at FYI. We had some fabulous entries for the last challenge. Thanks again to all who joined us for that. The Lovely Lotus award for Challenge #5 will be posted on May 26th. We have three new designers joining us this week, and I have been so impatient and excited to share these projects with you. So, are you ready to be inspired again?

For this weeks challenge, I give you, one of my favorite ways to travel.

I hope that at some point in your life you're able to take a hot air balloon ride. We celebrated my mom's 55th birthday with a ride overlooking the Colorado mountains and it was absolutely breathtaking. And, speaking of my mom, today is her birthday, Happy Birthday mom! This is partly why I have chosen this photo. I love the bright bold colors against the stormy blue sky in the background and all of the shaped elements of the balloon patterns. So, how are you inspired?

This week we also have a treat for you. Our wonderful Valerie is being generous and offering up some blog candy to the lucky winner of this challenge. Below is a photo of the goodies one of you could be the proud owner of.

Wow, doesn't all of that look yummy! Thanks Valerie for being so kind.

Now, onto this weeks guest designer. Please help me welcome Karen Pimblett! Karen was our Lovely Lotus for challenge #2 and we are happy to have her joining us this challenge. Below is a bit about Karen, in her own words.

My name is Karen and I have been making cards for just over 5 years now.

I first got into cardmaking when I was ill with cancer of the thyroid. My friend turned up with a magazine, and it had a beautiful card on the front cover which had a quilled flower on it. I asked her how it was done, and once I saw how simple it was I never looked back.

These days my biggest crafting addiction is colouring with my Copics and my Derwent Pencils. I love all things stamped and that includes Digital images too! My other main passion is decoupage, I just love shaping any layering up with my 3D glue.

I enjoy creating cards with different shapes and trying out new things - if I'm experimenting with something then I'm usually at my happiest!
I love pairing up colours that I wouldn't normally put together and the effects that this can give.
I hope that you like the card I came up with for this challenge.

Here is Karen's card and the cards created by my Lovely Lotuses.

Wow! Talk about some amazing inspiration this week. My ladies have ROCKED this challenge, if I do say so myself. We always look forward to what you'll come up with. Don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. This challenge is open until Wednesday, 6/1.

Challenge #4 Lovely Lotus

2011-05-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

We had some awesome entries for Challenge #4. Thanks again to all who joined us. The design team have spoken, and the Lovely Lotus for Challenge #4 is: #2 - Debbles Dabbles! Congratulations!! Below is her amazing card.

I love the colors, and how she interpreted the photo. Well done! Please get in touch with me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the Lovely Lotus blinkie and for information on being a future guest designer.

Have a great day!

So Exciting!

2011-05-11T07:00:00.005-05:00

Every once in a while people come into our lives and we want to do everything possible to be around them. I feel this way when it comes to papercrafting as well. There are some designers who post projects that just inspire you to want to keep visiting their blogs over and over again to see what they'll come up with next. So, it was only natural to invite two new people to our design team. Both are amazingly talented, and we're truly blessed that they have accepted our invitation to join the group. Please help me welcome Keva Brown, Sara MacMorran and Debby Hughes. I hope you'll take a bit to visit their blogs and see why I just had to have them on my team.

They will both be joining us on the 19th for Challenge #6, but don't forget you still have time to enter Challenge #5. The Lovely Lotus for Challenge #4 will be posted on the 18th, so don't forget to stop back to see who that is.
Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #5

2011-05-05T01:00:00.009-05:00

Hi everyone!

It's the first Thursday of the month, which brings us to our next challenge here at FYI. We had some very nice entries for the last challenge. Thanks again to all who joined us for that. The Lovely Lotus award will be posted next week for Challenge #4. Don't forget to come back to see who the lucky winner is.

For this weeks challenge, I give you, one of the most beautiful places to worship Him.

When I first saw this photo, I was totally in awe. The old architecture against the gorgeous landscape and sky are just breathtaking. So, how are you inspired?

We have another wonderful guest joining us this week. Please help me welcome Keva Brown. Keva has been awesome in participating each week, and we're truly blessed to have her joining us this week.

Here is a bit about Keva, in her own words.

Hey guys! My name is Keva Brown and I am so excited to be a Guest Designer for this week's For Your Inspiration challenge. I have been stamping for about 7 years, but dropped out of it for a while and just returned last year! I love stamping and TRY to do it everyday, though that doesn't always happen! I'm not sure what my style of stamping is. It changes based on my mood and what music I am listening to at the time. I have been married for 14 years to an Air Force guy who is currently deployed and we have one 12 year old daughter. I am a HUGE Harry Potter and Twilight fan and have just become engrossed in the whole Lord of the Rings movies/books. When I am not reading, watching Harry Potter, or stamping, I work in Customer Marketing for a major Insurance and Financial Services company.

Here is Keva's card for this weeks challenge. Isn't it lovely?!

Our Lovely Lotuses have also created some wonderful projects for you this week as well. Check them out.

Brenda

Debbie

Valerie

Wanda

Wow, talk about gorgeous projects this week! I love them all. As always, we're excited to see what you come up with. Don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. We are excited to see what you'll come up with! This challenge is open until Wednesday, 5/18. We will be posting the Lovely Lotus for this challenge shortly after that.

Challenge #3 Lovely Lotus

2011-04-27T19:04:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

Thanks for your patience with me in getting this posted. We have a fantastic winner! Congrats to our Lovely Lotus for Challenge #3 - Radha! Below is her gorgeous card based on the inspiration photo.

Radha, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the Lovely Lotus blinkie and for info on being a guest designer.

Have a wonderful day!

FYI Challenge #4

2011-04-21T07:45:00.003-05:00

Hello!

I apologize for the late posting, but I was at work late, and didn't get the chance to schedule the post. We had some fabulous entries last week. Thank you to all who joined us! In honor of Earth Day, which is April 22nd, I thought we would use a photo that is most fitting.

For this challenge, I give you, something out of this world.

This has got to be one of my favorite photos ever. I've always wondered what it would be like to go up in space, even as a child. I absolutely love how you can see some of the terrain on the Earth and all of the contrast of dark and light spots, along with the craters on the moon. So, how are you inspired?

Our guest this week is someone whom I'm very fond of. She's the sweetest ever, and the most talented person I've met in a while. She is wonderful in any kind of medium. Please help me welcome Amy Baldwin.

Here is a bit about Amy, in her own words.

I am an artist obsessed with detail. A lover of all things eccentric and unique, my style conveys a love of vivid colors, textures and patterns. While most would call me a mosaic artist, I would consider myself more of a mixed media artist. Creating mosaics for over six years now, I have learned to create mosaics that are like no other. Traditional mosaics include specifically tile and grout. I like incorporating all kinds of other types of media into my work to include specialty papers, copper, & glass beads to name a few. I also enjoy all kinds of vintage ephemera like old game pieces, license plates, keys, etc. I am constantly creating, and my mind is always spinning with new ideas. Whether it is making mosaics, altered art or scrapbooking I am always creating and always will. With the support of my family and friends, I consider myself an accomplished artist. My true inspirations are my boys, Frankie, Jack & Sam…for without them putting up with me, none of this would be possible! To keep up with all my newest works, please follow me on my blog at http://www.curlyqmosaics.blogspot.com/. Life is good!

And here is the card she created for us this week. Isn't it fantastic?!

Our Lovely Lotuses have also outdone themselves this week. Check it out!

Anne

Brenda

Debbie

Valerie

Wanda

Aren't they fabulous?! We cannot wait to see how you're inspired. And, maybe as an added touch, why not try something recycled on your project in honor of Earth Day and trying to Go Green. Don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. We are excited to see what you'll come up with! You have until Wednesday, May 4th to link your projects.

Please don't forget to link directly to your project, and not just your blog in general. General blog links will be deleted. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI4, so that we can make sure to leave some love.

FYI Challenge #3

2011-04-07T01:45:00.006-05:00

Hello & Welcome!

We had some wonderful entries last challenge. Thanks to all who joined us. Your interpretation of the photos are absolutely fantastic! It's the first Thursday of the month, which brings us to our third challenge and inspiration photo.

For this challenge, I give you, my favorite seaside village.

I just love how the contrast of the buildings is set against the rugged mountains, and choppy waters. The sun reflecting off of them is almost like they're being spotlighted. So, how are you inspired?

We have another awesome guest designer joining us for our third challenge. You all know, and love her, probably as much as I do. She's the sweetest thing, and is an amazing paper crafter. Please help me welcome Sankari Wegman.

Here is a bit about Sankari, in her own words.

Hi Everyone, my name is Sankari Wegman and I am so honored to be a guest designer for this amazing Inspiration Challenge! I have been in love with all things crafty for as long as I can remember and about two years ago, I got into cardmaking (it started out as a little hobby, where all my supplies could fit into a shoebox! ha! those were the days!). I have loved being part of the crafting community in blogland and feel so grateful to have met so many amazing artistes in the stamping/cardmaking world! I feel blessed to be part on some amazing design teams - currently am part of the teams for Paper Craft Planet Design Team, Taylored Expressions, Verve Stamps and JustRite stamps.

When I am not getting my fingers inky, I love spending time with my children and husband and also work as a professor at the University and as a part-time consultant at an Ayurvedic clinic. I love getting some time to get crafty and unwind from the hustle and bustle of the day! Thank you so much for letting me part of this week's challenge! Big hugs!

And here is her gorgeous card, based on this weeks photo. I love it!!

As always, the Lovely Lotuses have created some amazing projects for you this week as well. Check them out!

We're SO excited and cannot wait to see what you come up with! Don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. We are excited to see what you'll come up with! This challenge closes on Wednesday, April 20th, at 11:45pm. You have two weeks to upload your projects.

Challenge #2 Lovely Lotus

2011-04-04T15:14:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!!

I'm sorry for the delay, but I was in the process of moving and unpacking. Without further wait, congrats to #2 - Karen! She is our Lovely Lotus for Challenge #2. Karen, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the Lovely Lotus blinkie and for information on being a guest designer.

Check out Karen's gorgeous card. Her interpretation of the photo was fabulous!

Have a wonderful day!

Challenge #1 Lovely Lotus

2011-03-18T08:00:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone!

After much consideration, we have chosen our first Lovely Lotus. There were so many lovely projects but everyone has voted. Please help me show some love to #6 - Keva! Her gorgeous interpretation really had us all in agreement, she rocked the first challenge!

Keva, please email me (onecraftychica@gmail.com) for the Lovely Lotus blinkie and for details on being a guest designer for a future challenge. Congrats girl! You really outdid yourself! Thanks so much for playing along with our first challenge!

Don't forget that our second challenge is posted HERE. We can't wait to see what you guys come up with next!

Have a wonderful day everyone!

FYI Challenge #2

2011-03-17T01:00:00.002-05:00

Hi there!

Are you guys ready for another inspiration challenge?! We had some wonderful entries last week. Thank you to all who joined us. The Lovely Lotus for challenge #1 will be posted on Friday, March 18th. This will give the DT plenty of time to choose their favorite. Don't forget to check back then to see who it is.

For this challenge, I give you, my favorite sunset.

I don't know about you, but I could totally see myself in a big, comfy chair, watching the clouds roll by and the sunset change as the sun sets. I love how the sky looks so soft against the sharp rocks and how the hint of orange pops against the other colors. How are you inspired?

Here are the gorgeous projects brought to you by our lovely design team, and our guest, Teresa. Check them out.

Aren't they wonderful?! I love how one photo can inspire such different projects. My Lovely Lotuses did a wonderful job again this week! Don't forget, you can create any kind of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. We are excited to see what you'll come up with! This challenge closes on Wednesday, March 31st, at 11:45pm. You have two weeks to upload your projects.

FYI Challenge #1

2011-03-03T01:00:00.029-06:00

Hi everyone!

Welcome to our first challenge! We are so blessed that you've stopped by to check us out. Hopefully, we'll inspire you to play along. We have been excitedly waiting to share our first projects with you, and are thrilled to finally be able to share them.

For our first challenge, I give you, The Dubai Towers.

I love all of the elements in this photo. The peaks from the towers, the radiance of the light reflecting off of them, the colors and textures. I read that the architecht designed them to look like candle flames gently blowing in the breeze. This is truly an amazing photo! How are you inspired?

Now, before I get to the Lovely Lotus projects. I'd like to introduce you to this months Guest Designer. We couldn't be more thrilled to welcome the ever so sweet, and amazingly talented, Teresa Kline (aka: va.sunshine). Didn't I tell you our first guest was awesome! Here is a bit about her in her own words.

Hey there gals, I am Teresa Kline....I am thrilled to be the first guest designer for the Inspiration Blog Challenge. I have been playing with paper my entire life, but seriously paper creating for the last three years. I have had the wonderful opportunity of guest designing for lots of companies and currently design for Stampers Dream, Verve Stamps, and the Mojo Monday Sketch Team. My latest team is being apart of the SCS Dirty Dozen.....woohoo.

I am married to Gary, my #1 fan! We travel on our motorcycle for vacations, weekends get aways, or day trips. I enjoy some reading, time with my friends, outdoors, Starbucks, creating of course, and sending my creations most of all. I like to use my card creating to reach out to others, I want to bring a little sunshine into the lives of others.....enjoy!

Here is her card, inspired by the photo. Isn't it gorgeous?! She never ceases to amaze!

And now, without further wait, here are the projects created for you by our Lovely Lotuses.

Did I not tell you these ladies were amazing?! Wow, what inspiration! Don't forget, you can create any type of crafty project you like. The idea is to take inspiration from the photo to get your creative mojo flowing. We cannot wait to see what projects everyone comes up with!

Please don't forget to link directly to your project and not just your blog in general. I would hate to have to eliminate anyone due to something so small. Also, should you be uploading to any online galleries, please use keyword FYI1 so that we can make sure to leave some love.

This challenge will close on Wednesday, 3/16, at 11:45pm.

So now, I leave you, to be inspired!

Meet The Design Team!

2011-03-01T00:10:00.016-06:00

Hello and welcome!

Have you been waiting patiently to find out who is on the first FYI Design Team? Or have you been a bit impatient like me, in wanting to share the news? I believe we've all waited long enough. Without further delay, here are the six wonderfully talented women I have chosen to provide inspiration for each challenge (my Lovely Lotuses). Please help me welcome them and don't forget to stop by their blogs and leave them some love!

Anne Harada of Everlasting Ink

I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and lived there for over 40 years! I now live in Ft. Worth, Texas with my best friend and husband, Carl, and our newly acquired family member "Charlie" who is a 6 year-old rescue, par Jack Terrier and part Dachshund. Our daughter, Leslie, lives in nearby Dallas and works as a voice actor, writer and directio for Fnimation productions. I work fulltime for a software engineering company as the only woman in a 30 person office!

My passion for stamping and paper crafting is surpassed only by my love for God and my family (and my new dog!). I have been incredibly blessed and I am grateful that I can share myenthusiasm for this craft with others wherever I get the opportunity.

I've been "crafty" in many different areas ever since I can remember. About 9 years ago I discovered paper crafts and stamping at a home stamping party. From that point on, the more I learned and collected, the more I pursued this artform. I still feel like I am just getting started! I tend to go through phases of stamping techniques and products and try to keep on top of what's new.

I'm a former Stapin' Up! Demonstrator and I've been fortunaqte to serve as a Design Team member for several stamp product companies and "challenge" teams. It is a thrill for me to join the "For Your Inspiration" DT and the talented ladies who share this same passion.

Brenda Rose of Rose Blossom Legacies

I am so excited to be a part of this brand new venture! I think it will be such a lovely way to express all kinds of creativity and perhaps even bring you into a whole new area of crafting! I have been a paper crafter for 20 years, but it became a passion for me about 7 or 8 years ago. The thing I love about paper crafting is that everyone's work is so unique and an expression of their individuality. I am a wife of 20 years to a patient, kind, and loving man, Jerry, that supports me and understands that paper is my therapy! I so enjoy watching him create fishing lures from a square block of wood. Our grown son is studying his own creative passion - hair and beauty -and will be graduating this fall. We have two extremely spoiled pets - a beagle named Miss Chanel #5 and a black cat named Miss Sassy who fits her name very well! During the winter months, I spend my free time cooking, and in the summer months you will find me outside. There's nothing like the warm Minnesota sunshine! I hope that this blog challenges your creativity and that you fins new ways of looking at crafting!

Corinna McGregor of Stamping with a Java Junkie

I am a work-at-home mom to my college-sophmore son, love to my currently-deployed fiancee, inventor and entrepreneur of the soon-to-be opening Ribbon Carousel Company. I retired as an International Toy Designer/Business Owner a few years ago and picked up paper-crafting to fix my "creative itch".

As a relatively "new" crafter, I am still exploring different styles and techniques which means that every day, with a new stamp or piece of patterned paper, is an adventure! I love crafting and feel so blessed to have met so many wonderful people in the world-wide crafting community.

I am excited to be part of the inaugural For Your Inspiration (FYI) Challenge. The inspiration photos are wonderful and it will be great fun to see the different ways that each will be interpreted! Meeting new friends and reacquainting with old ones is going to be such fun as we begin this great new challenge adventure.

Debbie Standard of Live Life Loud

My name is Debbie Standard and I have been scrapbooking for about 15 years now. My oldest daughter, who is well published, got me started and once started I was hooked. I have been published in Memory Makers Books, Scrapbook Trends and Cards as well and many other publications. I have been a Critical Care nurse now for 15 years and work as head of Trauma Case Managers in a level one trauma center. I am also a mother to 4, step-mother to two, and have 11 grandchildren. I have always enjoyed crafts from crochet, knitting, sewing and cross-stitch as well as playing the piano. Scrapbooking has truly been the greatest artistic outlet for me and a great stress reliever. I love making cards and stamping. I am on several Design Teams and have been blessed to work on a couple of teams with my daughter. I am thrilled to be a part of this new inspirational team Stephanie has put together and so look forward to meeting new people and gathering inspiration from fellow design members as well as those participating in the challenges.

Valerie Mangan of Paper & Cookies
I’m a working mom & wife living in New Jersey. I take heavy inspiration from the trends, pattern and color I see every day, particularly at my ‘day job’ where I work as an interior designer. I would classify my style as clean, linear and graphic, although every now and then I like to pile it on. Especially when I’m working on cards. My favorite supply is patterned paper. I love to mix pattern and my favorite tool by far is my sewing machine. Projects do not feel complete to me unless I sew on them. In addition to making stuff out of paper, I love art and design, photography and baking.

Wanda Cullen of Cullen-ary Creations
My passion for papercrafting began with a SU party in 1997, which led to a monthly stamp club and eventually to involvement in challenges on Splitcoaststampers. I started blogging a year ago...a journey that has led me to 'meet' so many wonderful, creative people! I love puns, thus the blog name, Cullen-ary Creations. By day, I'm a full-time RN working with persons who have multiple disabilities at a comprehensive, vocational-oriented rehabilitation center. Married for 36 years, I have 3 grown children, so guess that puts me into the empty nest category. I'm active in my church...playing piano, teaching a Sunday School class...and often send out cards to encourage and hopefully bring a smile to others. I'm excited and looking forward to this new FYI design team experience! So...act on your ideas and come create with us!

Are you as excited as I am?! I cannot even begin to tell you how blessed and thrilled I am to have this amazing group of ladies on my first design team. I've seen some of their projects already, and they're nothing short of gorgeous. And, the photos. Oh my gosh, the photos are just stunning. I'm so ready to share them with all of you!!

Just a bit of information in regards to the challenges again. This challenge will present gorgeous photography to inspire you to create! Challenges will be posted on the 1st and 3rd Thursday's of each month. You have two weeks to participate, and a favorite will be chosen for each challenge. You can create anything you like, there are no rules or limitations.

Wanda mentioned to me that she had read that the Lotus flower represented creativity. I thought it was perfect for our favorite pick for each challenge. The "Lovely Lotus" badge (shown below) will be awarded to the winner of each challenge and each favorite has a chance to be a Guest Designer for a future challenge. We also have a few "celebrity" Guest Designers who will be joining us from time to time.

I hope you'll join us on THURSDAY for the inaugural challenge, and to see who our very first Guest Designer is. She's absolutey amazing and I'm a big fan! :)

Until Thursday my friends!

Are You Ready?!

2011-02-26T08:23:00.000-06:00

Just a few more days until we announce our wonderful Design Team and post our first challenge. Don't forget to stop by on the March 1st and 3rd for all of the news!

Have a great day!

DT Call Now Closed

2011-02-16T11:46:00.000-06:00

Our first design team call is now closed. Thank you to all who applied. Your projects were nothing short of amazing! Don't forget to check back on March 1st to see who's on the FYI inaugural design team. :)

Have a wonderful day!

There's Still Time!

2011-02-12T18:03:00.000-06:00

Hi everyone!!

Just a friendly reminder that there are still a couple days left if you're interested in applying for a DT spot. The DT call will close on Tuesday, 2/15.

Have a great weekend!

Woo Hoo! We have a blinkie! :)

2011-02-05T21:46:00.000-06:00

It's simple, but functional. Below is the code for your blogs. We appreciate you helping us spread the word! Remember to check back on March 1st to find out who's on our very first design team, and then on March 3rd for our first challenge. We have an amazing guest designer!

<a href="http://foryourinspirationchallenges.blogspot.com/" title="make gif"><img src="http://i.picasion.com/pic38/7743733fd9fb1ae2d1234a5333f7e8b8.gif" width="150" height="104" border="0" alt="make gif" /></a><br /><a href="http://picasion.com/%22%3E%3C/a>

So excited!!

Yay, Blog Candy!!

2011-02-01T06:57:00.001-06:00

Don't forget there's a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to the place of your choice! You can check out all of the details HERE!

Have a great day!

Design Team Call!

2011-01-19T09:12:00.002-06:00

We're excited to announce that we are currently looking for a few great designers to join our first Design Team here at For Your Inspiration!  We're hoping to find people who work in all different kinds of mediums. It can be from paper crafting, to sewing, to baking or jewelry making.  If you like to create, we're interested in you!

Have you ever thought about being on a design team? Do you enjoy creating projects (of any kind) based on inspiration and details? Are you someone who loves interacting with others to share creativity, support and inspire? If you are, then we encourage you to apply!  All skill levels are welcome, and previous DT experience is not necessary. There is currently no compensation for this design team, but am hoping to add sponsors later. There is a six month term requirement, beginning in March.

Design Team Requirements
Two projects per month, required.
Responsible for meeting deadlines.
Must be able to take quality photos of your work.
Must be able to encourage creativity and be active in communication via blog posts and feedback on challenge entries.
Communicate any absences or inabilities to complete your projects, prior to the post date.
Must be able to fulfill a six month term.

Benefits
Photo and bio posted on our challenge blog with an active link to your blog.
DT member button for your blog.
Custome made watermark for your projects.
Opportunity to build or add to your craft resume'.
Occasional products and discounts from sponsors (should we be sponsored).

Submission Process
Please complete the following and subit to: onecraftychica@gmail.com
Put DT Application in subject line.
Attach 3 projects that best reflect your work.
Create and include a photo of a project based on the inspiration photo below.

Name, Mailing Address, Phone Number & Email
Provide a link to your blog.
Provide direct links to any online galleries you're a member of.
Provide info as to which medium or type of projects you create. (ie: paper crafting, jewelry making, art, etc.)
Info on any current design teams.
Answers to the following questions.
             - Tell us a bit about you.
             - Why do you want to be a part of the FYI design team?
             - What do you listen to while creating?

Deadline to submit your application is February 15th. Design Team will be announced on March 1st and our first challenge will be posted on March 3rd.

Thanks and good luck to everyone!

Coming Soon!

2011-01-18T13:55:00.003-06:00

I'm still in the process of getting everything situated. Be patient with me. I will have a Design Team call within the next few days.

Thanks for your patience!
Steph