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EXCITING NEWS!

WOW!! I tell you what….when Stampin’ Up! celebrates their 25th Anniversary they sure do it right!

Check this out…

For just TWO WEEKS…. STARTING MONDAY, OCT. 7 AND ENDING MONDAY, OCT. 21, Stampin’ Up! is offering this amazing special for just $25!!

This is the Stampin’ Up! Starter Kit Special you have been waiting for!!! Mark Your Calendar! Stampin’ Up! will be offering a special starter kit for just $25! Now THAT’S what I call the PERFECT way to celebrate!

The $25 kit includes up to $26.95 of your choice of Stampin’ Up! products (value must be more than $25, but not more than $26.95 before tax), a supply of annual and holiday catalogs and it all ships FREE. Our regular $99 Starter Kit will not be available for purchase during this two-week period.
Try out all of the Stampin’ Up! exclusive resources and discounts through April 30, 2014, with no obligation to purchase anything further.
Save! Receive a 20% discount on every demonstrator order you place. No pesky coupons to take with you to the craft store…It’s always available for you…24/7 once you join.
Receive 30% off your first demonstrator order of $150 or more (before shipping and tax). Must be placed within 45 days of purchasing your kit.
Be first to know about new products and pre-order from new catalogs!
Reach $300 in sales by March 31, 2014 and renew an additional quarter (through June 30, 2014). There’s NO penalty to drop.
It’s up to you! Purchase the kit just for yourself and/or have fun and share Stampin’ Up! with friends while making a little extra

PURCHASE YOUR $25 KIT THROUGH ME and you’ll become a member of my INKERBELLES STAMPERS. You’ll get exclusive projects and ideas and you’ll get me as your team leader.

If you’re already spending your hard earned money on stampin’ supplies, don’t you want to get the most for your money? Why not try it out and see how you like it? You don’t have to do it as a business if you don’t want to. Use this as a way to get more “bang for your buck”. I’d love to share the details with you.

For more info, just CLICK HERE. Get all the supplies you need for your upcoming Fall and holiday projects, Christmas cards and more and get it at a discount. Order from home….NO pesky coupons needed. YOU call the shots. Now THAT’S what I call MAGICAL!

**BONUS** Join Stampin’ Up! during this special and you will receive an invitation my EXCLUSIVE INKERBELLES HOLIDAY HOOPLA PARTY. It’s going to be a fantastic time. Don’t miss out!

Contact me today for more info or just head over to my Online Stampin’ Website to check it out.

Stamped Blessings,

Categories: Uncategorized

The Constant Battle

**A non-stamping related post**

My heart is pounding and I can feel my blood pressure climbing through the roof. I know I’ve posted about issues with autism and dealing with people who just don’t get it but this honestly has ticked me off to a new record high.

I won’t go into the entire background history of Linz and Zach’s schooling and their internships provided by the school system. Suffice it to say that they have been very well taken care of as far as having great teachers and assistants who have worked with them and helped them with skills and training for the “real world”. Linz interned at 4 different libraries before settling at one of our local public libraries where she now volunteers five days a week shelving books and helping out. We have still been unable to find anyone willing to hire her. Go figure. She’s far more organized and much more meticulous with paperwork and general office work than many “experienced” adults I’ve met.

Zach graduated from high school in 2010. For those of you not familiar with special education, students with special needs can stay in school until they turn 22. After graduation they return for more “life skills” classes and transition activities and hopefully internships with local businesses to help them find employment.

Zach worked two internships last year. The first at the offices of the Amputee Coalition of America and the other at the Community Thrift Store. At the ACA he stuffed envelopes and helped with general office tasks. He was meticulous. They were SO impressed. Alas…no money to hire extra staff.

At Community Thrift Store he would help sort donations, collect hangers and sort them and help organize the book donations. He rocked it.

So…when this school year began we found out that he was going to be doing an internship at our local Red Lobster restaurant. We (along with his teacher) were very excited because in the past some of the students from the program were eventually hired at local restaurants and they were so successful.

Now….Zach is pretty non verbal so its not like he can come home and tell me all about his day….who said what….who was nice….who was a jerk etc. It’s absolutely TERRIFYING not knowing how people are treating my child. Seriously…like “cold sweat” scary. Most days when I ask, “How was your day, Zach?” he will respond with “Was it good?”. I know. Makes no sense. Right? It is what it is.

So I had signed the paperwork giving permission for him to start at Red Lobster. There would be an instructional assistant accompanying him every time he went etc. Well….a couple of weeks ago he started his “every other day” internship routine. I would ask, “Did you go to internship today?” and he would usually say, “Yes. Napkins and knife and forks.” Um…okay.

Now since I work in the school system I know most of the teachers and assistants at the other schools. I see some of them regularly. So today I happened to see an assistant who comes with 2 special ed students to intern at my school. I knew that she had gone with Zach before and had told me how much she just “loves him”. I went over to her this morning and said, “Hello” and I told her that Zach came home yesterday and mentioned something about Community Thrift Store. I told her I thought that was odd since his new internship is at Red Lobster. She got a strange look on her face and said, “Did you hear what happened last week?”. Ok….my heart stopped. I said, “Um…..nope”. She said, “The bus took them to internship (Zach and another sweet girl in his class) and they turned the bus away. They wouldn’t let them stay”. (She thought that this happened at Community Thrift but it turns out that it was at Red Lobster)

Ok…WHAT?

Fast forward to tonight when I talked with his teacher who told me what had happened. (I’m FUMING!!!)

Apparently at Red Lobster he had been given the task of wrapping silverware and preparing it for customers. Silverware wrapped in paper napkins for lunch time and cloth wrapped silverware for dinner time. The assistant from school had been there with him the whole time/every time. Last week, when their bus showed up at Red Lobster, the manager opened the front door and stood in the doorway, blocking the entrance and said, “You don’t need to come in. We don’t need you here.” The assistant asked her what she was talking about. The manager repeated herself and said, “We don’t need THEM here. I guess if you need to wait the two hours for your bus to come back and get you they can sit in the lobby.”

(I’m nauseous as I even type that!)

So….they called transportation and the bus came back and took them back to school. The teacher said that the internship coordinator found out that Red Lobster said that the silverware wrapped in cloth napkins was done perfectly but the ones in the paper napkins had the silverware peeking out of the top of the bundles and they needed to be “completely encased”. The assistant who had been with them since their first trip said they were NEVER told that. Even so….why wouldn’t they show them the correct way and let them continue??? Seriously???

All I want is a place for my kids to be happy and productive. A place to feel they belong and are appreciated for the wonderful human beings they are. They are BOTH so very sweet and happy and such hard workers. I don’t know about you but I’ve come in contact with some pretty useless, unhappy people in my shopping travels….eating out excursions etc. Why won’t anyone give them a chance??? I know God has a plan. I KNOW IT. I just wish He would reveal it. I’m sitting here tonight feeling tired…bone tired. I know there are millions of people who have way worse problems to deal with than ours. I do. I get it. I’m not asking for anything for ME. I want this for THEM.

For those of you who know my husband, you know how calm and low key he is. He doesn’t get mad often. In fact, I’d really have to think hard to recall when he was mad last. Well….guess what? He’s TICKED OFF tonight!!! He’s going to write a letter to the Red Lobster corporate offices. Lord help the rude and hateful manager from the Manassas, VA Red Lobster. They haven’t heard the last from us.

We will NEVER, EVER set foot there again.

Working in special education I keep one thing in the front of my head at all times. No matter how hard a child is to deal with….no matter how frustrating they can be….no matter what….we ALL need to remember one thing….

They are ALL someone’s child. They are ALL someones prized possession. We are entrusted with them for a few hours each day. No matter how “hard” it may seem to deal with them…they are ALL someone’s child. For those people like the manager at Red Lobster….I pray God doesn’t give you a child with special needs. You obviously would have NO CLUE what to do with that precious gift.

Thanks for letting me pour it all out here. I appreciate it more than you know.

Blessings,

Michelle

Categories: Uncategorized

A “Boo-tiful “Magnetic Memo Board Class Announced!

Hello Stampers and Friends!

Happy Monday…

I have a fun project that is really quick and easy and it’s been a big hit with my Inkerbelles too.
It’s the “Boo-tiful” Magnetic Memo Board. I’m offering it as a class on October 8th at 7 p.m. here at my place. You will make not only the Halloween themed background with matching magnets…but you’ll also make a Thanksgiving and a Christmas background with matching magnets for both too. The backgrounds are interchangeable on the 12×12 magnetic board. That’s THREE holidays in one awesome project. Awesome, huh?

Here’s a peek at the Halloween design and the matching magnets….

Here are the class details…

Class Date: October 8th

Class Time: 7 p.m.

Class Fee: $40 – Includes a black 12×12 magnetic frame with all supplies and accessories to create all three themed backgrounds and magnets.

**This is a prepaid class** RSVPs are needed no later than Thursday, October 3rd. Payments can be made via Paypal, cash or check. I will need to adhere to this date in order to ensure that all supplies arrive on time for everyone’s kits. If you are unable to attend at the last minute, your kit will be available for pick up on October 10th.

I am looking forward to creating these fun projects with you. Be sure to RSVP soon to save your spot. The response has been overwhelming so far. I’m thinking I may need to offer it a second time too. 🙂

Wishing you a BOO-tiful day,

Categories: Uncategorized

An UNBIRTHDAY Party!

Good Morning!

Today is my birthday (49th and I’m proud!) and I want to be the one giving the presents.

I love the “Unbirthday Party” from Alice in Wonderland and today I’m having one of my own.

Here are the gifts that I’ll be giving…

You will receive a FREE Ink Pad of your choice when you place an order of $50.

You will receive a FREE pack of “BLING” – Rhinestones or Pearls when you place an order of $75.

You will receive a FREE roll of the NEW Silver Ribbon when you place an order of $100 AND you will be

entered into a drawing to win the NEW ENVELOPE PUNCH BOARD! WOOHOOOO!!!!

BONUS: If you take advantage of the $99 KIT OFFER today, 9/25/13, you will be entered in a drawing to

WIN a $25 Shopping Spree!! This offer expires tonight at midnight (EST).

I love celebrating and I especially love all of you, my customers and friends. I’m excited to give back

to you today.

Wishing you the most magical UNBIRTHDAY ever!

Michelle

Categories: Uncategorized

It’s Sweater Weather Time!

Today’s the day! Fall has arrived!

It’s probably my favorite season. I love the crisp evenings…I love the smell of a crackling fire….I love hoodies and schmoodgy blankets and I really love watching the leaves change into gorgeous reds and golds. There’s just something about fall that feels like “home” to me.

I guess that sounds a little weird. hahaha Oh well…

Anyway….today is the first day of fall and it was gorgeous outside here in Virginia. I not only did a 3.5 mile “wog” (walk/jog) but I spent time in my studio creating. How awesome is that?? I have just 48 days til my very first 5K and I’m working hard to get ready. I’m not gonna lie…it helps a LOT that its going to be at Disney World. 🙂 I’ll be running “Mickey’s Jingle Jungle 5K” at Animal Kingdom with my friend Stephanie. God bless her for doing this with me. She and her husband, Alex will also be running the

“Wine and Dine Half Marathon” while we are there too.

Whew!! Not THAT’S an awesome friend!

Ok…so I digress… Are you ready to see what I made today?

Well….one of the things I made today.

Drumroll, please…………….

I love the “Sweater Weather” Designer Series Paper. The colors are just yummy. They just look like a fall day to me. This wreath was super easy to make. It took just six sheets (or 1/2 a pack) of DSP cut into 1/2″x12″ strips. Each strip was curled at both ends with a bone folder. Each piece is then attached in the middle with a straight pin. The wreath base is a 10″ diameter straw wreath with the plastic left on.

I can see LOTS of different themed wreaths in my future. (ahem….Disney!)

So….what projects are you working on or excited to start for Fall? I love hearing from you and seeing your projects and ideas. So much so, in fact, when you send me a photo of your latest project from now through October 15th, you will be entered into a drawing for a prize from me. What are you waiting for? Get busy and send me a photo. I can’t wait!!

Wishing you a magical week ahead,

Categories: Uncategorized

Christmas in the air…

Hey there, stampers! Welcome to the next edition of “Michelle’s Playing Catch Up!”. Whew!

That’s okay. I love staying busy. Yesterday the ink was flying here at my place. I had a house full of stampers for the September “Christmas Stamp a Stack” class. They each got to create 12 lovely cards and envelopes and they had SO much fun. There were three designs and they made four of each. What a great way to get a jump start on Christmas cards, huh??

Here are two of the designs they made. I don’t have a photo of the third one yet.

The first one features a sweet, little “lady” named Roxie. She’s one of Santa’s sweetest reindeer and the latest Punch Art Critter here at Suitably Stamped Studio.

Isn’t she just a happy, little girl?

Here’s the second one….

I love this new stamp from the Holiday Catalog. It’s called “O Holy Night” It comes in both Wood Mount and Clear Mount. Wood #131832 Clear #131835. The card base is embossed with the Snowflake Embossing Folder and I added “bling” to make it POP. I LOVE the new bow design too. It’s simple! It’s just 3 ovals punched out and then “snap, crackle, POP” you have a bow! Isn’t that the coolest??

I really have been busy creating and getting ready for my upcoming classes. I will be sharing two of the projects with you tomorrow….so stay tuned!

Wishing you a wonderful week ahead,

Categories: Uncategorized

Clearance Sale??

Happy Thursday Peeps!

GREAT NEWS to share today!! Stampin’ Up! just added a bunch of new items to the Clearance Rack!! For those of you who follow my Punch Art Critters….One of my most used and favorite punches is on there!! The Blossom Builder Punch is now just $6.79! WOW! Also, there are assortments of 8 1/2 x 11 card stock for just $2.79 a pack! WOOT! Run….don’t walk (ok…just CLICK) to grab a few deals before they’re gone. Just Click Here

Now for a fun Halloween card to brighten your day…This is one of the cards from my recent “Just Cards” stamp camp. I just love it!!

Ok….I’m off to stamp and prep for this weekend’s “Christmas Stamp a Stack” class here at my place. I’m really looking forward to sharing these new Christmas card designs with all the ladies who will be here.

Have a magical day!
Michelle

Categories: Uncategorized

Outside the Box…

Hello, my friends,

It’s so good to be back with you. I feel like I’ve been moving at the speed of light and it’s just time to breathe. Last week was my first week back at school and I love my new students. There are six boys in our class and they are all really cool kids. I’m always nervous about everyone settling in but I have to admit that this class was raring to go on day one. After taking a year off and working in reading and math resource, I’m back in Special Ed and working with kids with autism again. I’m praying for a GREAT, productive year. 🙂

Yesterday I had my monthly “Just Cards” class here and we had a blast. The girls got to make five different cards and I’ll be sharing them with you this week here on my blog. I really love this first card. It’s an “out of the box” card for me. You know how I am….the more layers, embossing, glitz and embellishments…the better. LOL Well, check out this card….I promise you….I really created it!

See what I mean? I really am pleased with it. I think it works great as a masculine card too. Those are more of a challenge for me. I’m way more comfortable with “girly” and “froo froo”.

I used the “Wetlands” stamp set. It’s really a great set and this was one of the newest sets I’d ordered so it was the first time it was inked up. Trust me….it will get a LOT more ink time in my studio. Here are all of the images included in the set.

“Wetlands” Wood Mount: #126695 Clear Mount #126697

It’s so versatile and just an all around great set to have on hand. If you’d like to get a set of your very own, just head over to my Online Store by clicking the shopping cart above. Remember…You can shop 24/7….shop in your pjs….the lights are always on and you never have to wait in line.

I’ll be creating this week for my “September Christmas Stamp A Stack” next Saturday. I love having them and I can’t wait to share my new ideas with the ladies.

Well, I’m off to bed. Lots to do tomorrow and I absolutely need my “beauty” sleep.

Wishing you a magical day ahead,

Categories: Uncategorized

New Classes!!

Hey there, Stampers!

Have you heard about the next two card classes? You’re gonna want to be here for these!

I can’t wait to show you what I’ve designed. Check your calendar and then RSVP to save your seat.

The August Christmas Stamp A Stack filled up quickly so don’t wait.

“Fill ‘er up!” Card Class

Saturday, September 7th, 2013

1:00-3:00 p.m.

Come and create 5 lovely cards with matching envelopes and fill up your card box for all occasions.

Class fee: $15 All supplies are included. Please RSVP no later than Tuesday, September 5th.

**Bring a friend and you both will get to create an exclusive VIP project****Place an order for $30 in merchandise and your class will be FREE**

“September’s Christmas Stamp A Stack”

Saturday, September 15th, 2013

2:00-4:30 p.m.

Come and create 12 beautiful Christmas and Winter themed cards with matching envelopes.

You will create 4 each of 3 different designs. Be ready this year to send out your gorgeous,

hand stamped Christmas cards.Class Fee: $25 All supplies are included

**Bring a frinds and you both will get to create an Exclusive VIP project**

**Place an order of $50 and your class is FREE**

Please RSVP no later than September 12th.

I hope to see you soon!

Categories: Uncategorized

Etch a Birthday

Happy Sunday, Peeps!

As I type this I’m lounging on our deck while I watch Mike assemble our new fire pit. I’m SO excited! I love fall and all of those crisp evenings. I can’t wait to try it out.

I wanted to check in and share a card that has been in my head for the last few days and this morning I had to just stop what I was doing and go in and make it. It absolutely makes me smile. I hope you will too.

Isn’t that fun? It sure brings back the memories from when I was young and playing with my Etch A Sketch. 🙂 It’s great because it’s a quick and easy card that packs a “punch”. Mike asked me how I thought of the design for this card and I asked him if he wanted the truth. He did.
The other day (for some odd reason) I went in the kids’ bathroom to….um….use the facilities. 🙂 While I was there I saw that Linz had hung up one of our Disney beach towels. It has pics of lots of Disney characters on it including some from Toy Story. Well….I saw the image of “Etch” from that movie and that was that. I couldnt wait to create one out of card stock. I love the “Sketched Birthday” Stamp Set too. Here are all of the images that come in the set…


Sketched Birthday #130246 – Clear Mount – $17.95

Ok….I’m thinking it might just be time for a Sunday afternoon nap. I’d better get those in before football season starts.

Wishing you a happy and relaxing day,

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