How About Some FREE Bitty Buttons???!!!

Click on a picture to go directly to my Stampin' Up! website to get your Filled With Love bundle and FREE Buttons now!! While you're there check out our Clearance Rack!!! You won't believe the prices...up to 60% OFF!!! Promotion dates: December 17, 2010 - January 24, 2011

Valentine's Day is the second biggest holiday for sending cards, and during the Filled with Love promotion, you can get an exclusive package of Designer Series Paper perfect for creating cards for family, friends, classmates, and more!

From December 17, 2010 through January 24, 2011, get a FREE package of Bitty Buttons--a $4.95 value--when you purchase an exclusive Filled with Love Bundle.

Details:

Filled with Love Bundle
Contains the Filled with Love Set*

and exclusive Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack
124380 $32.90 Wood Mount
124381 $26.90 Clear Mount

Love Patterns Designer Series Paper Pack (non-bundled)
12 sheets total: three 12" x 12" sheets of two double-sided designs in

Real Red and Pretty in Pink
124156 $9.95

*Featured on p. 43 of the 2010 Holiday Mini Catalog

The Filled with Love Set is available in the Holiday Mini Catalog through January 3, 2011,

after which it will only be available through this promotion.

Have a wonderful day!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,

See Projects, Promotions, Catalogs,

Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Winter Wonderland

This enchanting page reflects the timelessness of Christmas with its traditional images and music notes that beckon to one’s mind the angelic sounds of the season. We love the use of several different sizes of decorative labels to create custom accents and borders to give shape and personality to the layout. A wonderfully vintage-looking folded bauble adds a final touch of dimension and texture that tops off this page with fanciful flair.



ALL SUPPLIES ARE STAMPIN' UP!
The first price listed is for regular orders via email, phone, etc. The second price is the Preferred Price when ordering through my Stampin' Up! Website: http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net!!

Top Note Stampin' Up! Bigz Die $24.39 $21.95
Big Shot Die-Cut Machine $111.06 $99.95
Color Spritzer Tool $14.39 $12.95
Bells & Boughs $22.17 $19.95
Deck The Halls Designer Series Paper $11.06 $9.95
Matchbox Stampin' Up! Bigz Xl Die $47.72 $42.95
Very Vanilla 1/2 Inch Seam Binding Ribbon $7.72 $6.95
Basic Pearls Jewel Accents $5.50 $4.95
Early Espresso Classic Stampin Pad $6.61 $5.95
Crumb Cake Classic Stampin Pad $6.61 $5.95
Cherry Cobbler 12X12 Card Stock $7.72 $6.95
Soft Suede 12X12 Card Stock $7.72 $6.95
Very Vanilla 12X12 Card Stock $7.72 $6.95
Early Espresso Stampin Write Marker $3.89 $3.50
Curly Label Punch $18.83 $16.95
Scallop Edge Border Punch $17.72 $15.95
1-3/4 Inch Scallop Circle Punch $18.83 $16.95

Thanks for visiting me today!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Merry Card

Here's a cute Holiday project. Hope you like it!
Merry card
A paisley patterned Christmas tree makes a lively focal point for this eye-catching holiday card. We colored selected paisleys in our tree a darker color using a Stampin’ Write Marker just before stamping to add a pop of detail to the image, which is further accentuated against a matching paisley background. Make this card to share with loved ones this Christmas to add to the wondrous sights and moments of their holiday season.


ALL SUPPLIES ARE STAMPIN' UP!
The first price listed is for regular orders via email, phone, etc. The second price is the Preferred Price when ordering through my Stampin' Up! Website: http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/!!

Very Vanilla 8-1/2X11 Card Stock $9.44 $8.50
Big Shot Die-Cut Machine $111.06 $99.95
Stampin' Dimensionals $4.39 $3.95 Qty:1
Stampin Write Markers - In Color Assortment $16.61 $14.95
Paisley Prints $18.83 $16.95
Teeny Tiny Wishes $41.06 $36.95
Paisley Party Standard Wheel Stamp $7.22 $6.50
Crumb Cake 8-1/2X11 Card Stock $7.72 $6.95
Soft Suede 8-1/2" X 11" Card Stock $7.72 $6.95
Old Olive 12X12 Card Stock $7.72 $6.95
12X12 Smooth Card Stock - In Color Assortment $12.17 $10.95
Pear Pizzazz Classic Stampin Pad $6.61 $5.95
Soft Suede Classic Stampin' Pad $6.61 $5.95
Old Olive Stampin' Write Marker $3.89 $3.50
Very Vanilla 3/8 Inch Taffeta Ribbon $7.72 $6.95
Basic Pearls Jewel Accents $5.50 $4.95
Scallop Edge Border Punch $17.72 $15.95
2-1/2 Inch Circle Punch $18.83 $16.95
Island Floral Stampin' Up! Bigz Die $24.39 $21.95

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Your Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,Catalogs,
Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Win a $400 Shopping Spree!!! WINNERS ANNOUNCED!!!

Here are the WINNERS for the stampin up shopping spree game...


audreygwyn & Scot Strehlow
Each will receive a $200 stampin up shopping spree

plus they will each get the level 1 hostess set and $20 in FREE goods

from the company!

If you are Audrey or Scot please contact Sherrill Graff at

lvstampnv@aol.com

Thank you to everyone who played along!

My winners will be announced later today!!

Late Night Stampers is a fabulous online stamping group I belong to. It is a yahoo group where members of the group post their latest samples, project ideas, or business tips. I usually get between 20 & 30 new emails a day with pictures of amazing stamped projects!! It really is a great way to get new ideas and the members are fantastic. They're so helpful when you have a question or problem and so quick!!

Sherrill Graff is the awesome demonstrator who started this group. Today, Sherrill is offering a $400 Shopping Spree to one lucky reader. All you have to do is check out the blogs listed below and collect clues. Any 20 clues will do. Collect your clues then email them to Sherrill at istmpnv@aol.com. Be sure to list the clue and the blog you got it from. That's it!!! After you send Sherrill your email she will enter you into her drawing for a $400 Stampin' Up! Shopping Spree!!!! How AWESOME is that?? Now, don't forget to check out the incredible stamped projects on those blogs you visit and leave some nice comments for those ladies too. Us bloggers really, really enjoy reading comments. :0)

My clue is: Morning Cup-wood: $24.95, clear mount: $16.96. It's on Page 60 of the NEW 2010-2011 Catalog & Idea book!!!


Ok, now that you've got that info here's more good news...

If you leave me a comment letting me know you entered Sherrill's Shopping Spree contest I will choose a winner and send that lucky person a FREE GIFT!!! Yeah, that's it, just leave me a comment on this post telling me you entered and you could win even more!!! WOO HOO!!!!Don't forget to leave me your email address so I can contact you if you win!!

Sherrill will be picking a winner soon so start blog surfing for your clues now!! And as soon as Sherrill has chosen a winner then I will choose a winner!!

GOOD LUCK and have a wonderful day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Visit My Blog: http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/
http://www.rosiescreativecottage.blogspot.com/
http://letmestamp.com/
http://www.itsastampthing-vicki.blogspot.com/
http://cecygarcia.blogspot.com/
http://www.stampinsiblings.blogspot.com/
http://stampinartbarbaravogt.blogspot.com/
http://livelovelaugh-angela.blogspot.com/
http://creativecardinspirationsbytamara.blogspot.com/
http://latenightstamper1.blogspot.com/
http://latenitestampinwithsherill.blogspot.com/
http://latenightstamper-stampandscrap.blogspot.com/
http://parttimepapercraft.blogspot.com/
http://yourhiredscrapbooksupplies.blogspot.com/
http://sherrystampinbella.com/
http://inkabella.com/
http://artfeltimpressions.blogspot.com/
http://samiesentiments.blogspot.com/
http://stampingfunn.com/
http://www.myinkrediblespot.blogspot.com/
http://www.cynthiascreativecuts.blogspot.com/
http://tanaconley.blogspot.com/
http://www.ink2inspire.blogspot.com/
http://www.ilinacrouse.blogspot.com/
http://creativewishes.blogspot.com/
http://kraftingjems.blogspot.com/
http://www.craftiblog.wordpress.com/
http://www.nwstamper.com/
http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/specialtstampin/blog
http://stampingfunn.com/
http://www.MrsBoz.Blogspot.com/
http://txtornadoinaz.blogspot.com/
http://www.starzlstamps.com/
http://www.pattycreates.blogspot.com/
http://www.elizabethloves2stamp.com/
http://kraftingjems.blogspot.com/
http://www.terryscretions.blogspot.com/
http://www.canadianscraptramp.blogspot.com/
http://inkspotsandstampinupthoughts.blogspot.com/
http://lauriesrubberroom.blogspot.com/
http://www.maddiebugdesigns.blogspot.com/
http://www.kraftykateskupboard.typepad.com/
http://www.stampwithalicia.com/
http://www.stampingaweigh.blogspot.com/
http://www.shannonscropstop.blogspot.com/
http://debbysstampinheaven.blogspot.com/
http://www.stampingleeyours.blogspot.com/
http://www.sunnygirlscraps.com/
http://www.inkingthenightaway.blogspot.com/
http://www.pennytokensstampinspot.blogspot.com/
http://www.janstampingcreations.com/
http://guneauxdesignsbybeverlypolen.blogspot.com/
http://stetlerarts.blogspot.com/
http://www.creativebitz.blogspot.com/
http://jackielwatson.blogspot.com/
http://www.paperpunchaddiction.com/
http://helloholley.blogspot.com/
http://www.denisefoor.blogspot.com/
http://www.sunnygirlscraps.com/
http://www.stampinup.net/esuite/home/rhondastirrat/blog
http://anotherchancetostamp.blogspot.com/
http://www.loniholt.blogspot.com/
http://www.inkartfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
http://www.theloveofstamping.com/
http://www.lauriesrubberroom.blogspot.com/
http://www.lifewithawienerdog.com/
http://www.inkspiredtreasures.com/
http://paperluxuries.blogspot.com/
http://www.becreativewithnicole.blogspot.com/
http://www.sallysscrapbooking.blogspot.com/
http://creandoyestampando.blogspot.com/
http://www.remarkablycreated.com/
http://dorisanndesigns.blogspot.com/
http://www.jansstampingcreations.com/
http://brendasstampingcorner.blogspot/
http://www.inkartfromtheheart.blogspot.com/
http://www.diburns.blogspot.com/
http://www.pungostamper.blogspot.com/
http://www.nwstamper.com/play-along-to-win-a-400-shoppingspree/
http://letmestamp.com/
http://www.want2bcreative.blogspot.com/
http://www.simplegiftsbylisa.blogspot.com/
http://www.stampinwitheerlinda.blogspot.com/
http://helloholley.blogspot.com/
http://brendasstampingcorner.blogspot.com/
http://www.myinkrediblespot.blogspot.com/
http://stampinartbarbaravogt.blogspot.com/
http://faeriedreamsandpaperwishes.blogspot.com/

Thanks Scrapbook Page

Thanks page
Thanksgiving time is the best time to record the things we’re grateful for in life on scrapbook pages. This page incorporates leaf images creatively as both stamped accents and clever stenciled-looking backgrounds. Tone-on-tone stamped images on a print from our Autumn Spice Specialty Designer Series Paper makes for a subtly elegant background that enhances the entire leaf theme of the page.

Click the picture to see it larger and with more details. Remember, if you order through my SU! Website you will get preferred pricing!! Shop now...http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

THANK YOU for stopping by to see me today!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog: www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

50,000 BLOG HITS!!! & BLOG CANDY!!!

WOO HOO!!! My blog has hit 50,000 visitors!! THANK YOU so very much for your support of my little ole blog. I sincerely appreciate all of you that stop by and leave me little comments. SO...I believe that deserves some BLOG CANDY!!!

Ok, here's how this will work... Leave a comment on this post telling me how you found my blog and I will randomly choose a winner for some fabulous blog candy!!! Don't forget to leave your email address so I can contact you if you win!!!

Thanks again for visiting me. It makes it all worth while!!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog: www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

"31" 3-D Project

31 3-D
Hang this Halloween hello card from a ghoulish gift to a friend as a reminder of creepy good times to be had. It’s a quick and easy way to set a haunting mood for the holiday. A stamp, card stock, Nite Owl Designer Series Paper, and a bit of Raven 1/2" Lace Trim is all you need to make this terrific greeting.

Click the picture to see it larger and with more details. Remember, if you order through my SU! Website you will get preferred pricing!! Shop now...http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net

Have a wonderfully haunting day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog: www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Happy Hallo-scream!!

Happy Hallo-scream card
This be-witching card is the perfect Halloween greeting for a charming young lady in your life! A happy little witch and her cute black cat are chipper little messengers for a unique hello. Creepy crawly textured web backgrounds created using our Spider Web Textured Impressions Embossing Folder give this card a mesmerizing depth and dimension right out of the twilight zone.

Click the picture to see it larger and with more details. Remember, if you order through my SU! Website you will get preferred pricing!! Shop now...http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net


Thank you for stopping by!!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog: www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Project of the Month

How about a project to get you thinking of the beautiful Fall weather? This is a gorgeous card created with some of our new products. I hope you like it!!



Gratitude card
The gorgeous flower and leaf designs in rich autumn colors make this card a picture perfect Thanksgiving greeting. Tone-on-tone leaves stamped in the background on a print from our Autumn Spice Specialty Designer Series paper give it wonderfully-worn look that complements the rustic floral focal piece splendidly.

Click the picture to see it larger and with more details. Remember, if you order through my SU! Website you will get preferred pricing!! Shop now...http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog: www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

A Video from the SU! Home Office

Ever wonder what it's like to work for a company that cares about you? Watch this video and you'll know how much our support at the SU! home office is unequalled. It's amazing, a treat every day. There's always something to be thankful for while working for this company. I am very lucky to have a job I love and love what I do. Want to know how you can work for our awesome company? Just email me or give me a call. I'd be happy to share this incredible opportunity with you.

I hope this video makes you smile and gets your toes tappin'. Have a wonderful day!!-Lorraine


Shop Online, View Events, See Projects, Promotions, Catalogs, Join My Team! http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/.

Visit My Blog: http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Join SU! for ONLY $175!!

Click the picture above for a larger version!

Did you ever think you could start your own business for only $175??!!?? I'm here to tell you that YES, you can! With this price you will get everything you need to run a successful Stampin' Up! Business, work the hours you want, earn extra income to pay off bills, buy that new car, take your family on vacation or just use it to buy those extra things you've always wanted! Call or email me today to learn more. I would love to have you on my team and we are here to help you succeed!!! It's not just a business, it's a family!

I look forward to meeting you soon.
Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog:
www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

New Catalog Workshop!!

Come and see the new catalog and play with some of the new products!! There are so many new things in the new catalog and I'd love to show you what you can do with them! Can't make the workshop? You can still order items on your wish list by calling or emailing me. Don't have the new catalog? Let me know and I'll be sure to get you one right away!!

July 31
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
43373 Jerome Avenue-Fremont

RSVP Deadline: 7/25
Please RSVP so I can have your projects and new catalog ready!! Your catalog will be FREE just for attending this workshop!

Email: Ltrain26@comcast.net
Phone: 510/57307693 or 510/440-9053

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

The NEW 2010-2011 SU! Catalog is HERE!!!

Stampin' Up!'s award-winning Idea Book & Catalog is not only filled with beautiful stamp sets and accessories, but also hundreds of project ideas. Click the Catalog picture above to download your copy now or let me know and I'll send you a hard copy FREE!! (the catalog is 228 pages of awesomeness so please be patient if you click to download it.)

A lot is happening with Stampin’ Up! right now, including the release of our new Idea Book & Catalog and Celebrando Creatividad Supplement and our new Definitely Decorative Catalog. We have a ton of new stamps, accessories, and other products and don't forget all of our new colors!

Would you like to come to an Open House or Workshop?? I've scheduled some events and would love to see you. Even better, you could host your own workshop and earn some of these new products for FREE! Give me a call or send me an e-mail and let me know when you would like to have your workshop or come to one of mine.

I look forward to seeing you again!

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog: www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Lillies

Here's one more card created by Joyce Cram, one of my fabulous downline ladies. Joyce always has a stash of wonderful cards she's created at our meetings. Plus, she always shares. Isn't she awesome??!!?? Here's one of her beautiful creations.


Thanks for stopping by. Have a wonderful day!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Visit My Blog:
http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Tulip, Butterfly, Bird-This is a Spring Card!!

This is the swap card Joyce Cram made for our meeting.

Don't' you just love the color combo??!! It's one of my favorites.

Thanks for visiting me today!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,

See Projects, Promotions,

Catalogs, Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Here's another card that was designed by one of my downline ladies, Joyce Cram. Joyce CASED (Copy And Steal Everything) this beautiful card. (If you are the person that originally came up with this card please let me know so I can give you full credit and link to your blog.)

Thanks for stopping by to see me today and I hope you have a wonderful day!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,

See Projects, Promotions,

Catalogs, Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Here's a sweet little birthday card. This was Designed by Edra Jandro for our Downline meeting. I just love the soft colors and embossing. It's a beautiful card I would be happy to send or receive. Hope you like it!

By the way...can you tell what's wrong with this card? No, its not that the "Happy" is covered by ribbon. LOL!

Have a wonderful day!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,

See Projects, Promotions,

Catalogs, Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Happy Teacher Appreciation Day!!!

Happy Teacher Appreciation Day!!!

I would like to send a very special THANK YOU to all past and present teachers out there.

You are teaching our children and in tun, helping to create our future! You work hard every day, including some weekends, to prepare lessons for our kids, to teach them life values, to help them with problems, to nurture them, to prepare them for adulthood and I sincerely appreciate all you do.

If it weren't for you, where would our leaders come from? Where would all the doctors, dentists, lawyers, or other teachers, etc. come from? You are the reason we are who we are and why we've become the best possible people we can be.

I thank you with all my heart!!

Below is an article I'd like to share with you, written by Elizabeth Pesek.

Elizabeth Pesek is a third-grade teacher in the Fremont, CA Unified School District. She grew up in Fremont, moved away for several years, then moved back. She has been teaching for 12 years.

My Word: People don't understand how badly cuts will hurt
By Elizabeth Pesek
Guest commentary
Posted: 04/14/2010 12:01:00 AM PDT

As the Fremont Unified School District, among others, considers dramatically increasing class sizes and eliminating preparation time at the elementary grade level, keep in mind the following analogy.

Let's say the school district is like a company that manages farms, and it requires its farmers to grow and harvest crops in huge quantities.

The company takes away the farmer's tools, refuses to give the farmer enough water or fertilizer to do the job, and then ties the farmer's hands behind his back. Still, the company not only demands the original large harvest, but it increases its yield expectations each year. Finally, if the expectations are not met, the company blames the farmer.

In this scenario, will anything of value be produced?

Teachers are in the business of helping children grow. We understand funds are extremely limited at this time and painful cuts must be made. However, many teachers feel that those making the decisions don't understand the reality of the classroom.

It feels like people just don't understand that children are complex human beings with multiple needs. They are not machines that can have curriculum "implemented" into them and then good test scores will be the output.

They come to us with differing emotional, social, physical and intellectual needs, all of which we are expected to address.

In a typical week as a third-grade teacher, I am trying to help my students understand fractions, prepositional phrases, inferences, reading strategies, good writing traits, basketball, economics, the solar system, vocabulary, elements of art, test-taking strategies and the dangers of drugs.

It is enough of a challenge to master all this content, make plans to teach it effectively, prepare materials and correct assessments.

But while doing all that, I am also trying to provide extra help to those who struggle, challenge those who learn quickly, mediate arguments, teach conflict resolution, supervise playgrounds, give out Band-Aids, get absent students caught up, do paperwork to help those with severe problems, comfort students who bring problems from home, rearrange seating so students aren't distracted, plan separate lessons for English language learners, discipline misbehaving students and teach social skills.

The reality is that kids skin their knees, argue with their friends, cry when they're upset and want to share about their lives, even if it's not part of the curriculum.

Being in a classroom is an experience of juggling innumerable tasks and making constant decisions about a wide variety of things.

After students go home, teachers must also get ready for staff meetings, change bulletin boards, call parents, read e-mails and analyze test scores.

It seems like people just don't understand that doing all of this without any preparation time in the day and with 30 students is overwhelming.

It seems people just don't understand that all these factors combine to create teachers who are stressed, exhausted, frazzled and not the role models of calm, happiness and focus we should desire for our children.

Good teachers want to provide children with true knowledge and inspiration, and instead we often feel like we are processing students on an assembly line, and the conveyor belt keeps getting faster and faster.

As a society, we have the resources to make children a priority. I just don't understand why we choose not to.

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
www.lorraine.stampinup.net
Visit My Blog:
www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Vintage Flowers

Here's another card we made at our last Stamp Camp. This card was created by

Debbie Colbacchini. It uses our Vintage Vogue set from the Occasions Mini Catalog. This set is no longer available but you can substitute the stamp set with ANY flower set!! I love how Debbie used the greens on this card. Check out the Build A Brad in the center of the large flower...just gorgeous!


Well, it's Monday so I'd better get my rear in gear and start my day. Hope you have a wonderful week!!


Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
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Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Scallop Flower

Here's another card I made for my downline meeting this past week. This one was the make & take I created. I used the Scallop Circle die for the Big Shot to create the Basic Black base card then I used our awesome circle cutter to cut the 2 circle layers in Real Red and Whisper White. The Garden Green and Whisper White ovals are punched out with the Large and Small Oval punch then stamped a sentiment with the Teeny Tiny Wishes stamp set. Such a versatile set. A must have for sentiments! I've used the Fifth Avenue Floral set again. Love that set! Colored the flower with Real Red in the center then colored over the Real Red with Ruby Red and filled in the rest of the flower. This created a little shadow effect in the center of the flower. The stem is Garden Green and the little dots were made with our Itty Bitty Backgrounds stamp. I also added some shading around the flower with our River Rock Marker. Pretty simple card to make. Hope you like it!


Thanks for visiting. Enjoy your Sunday!!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Visit My Blog:
http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373
Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Flower Friends

Happy WEEKEND!! Yeah, it's finally here!! Boy have I had a busy week. I'm so glad the weekend is here. I hope you're doing something fun and enjoying some beautiful weather!!

Ok, so, here's a card I made for my downline meeting the other day. It's pretty simple but I have 2 samples to show you. I made the first one using Melon Mambo ink on the background and then inking the Friends F Stamp with Crushed Curry stamp pad then colored some Melon Mambo and Rich Razzleberry over that with my markers. Not sure I like the look of this one. Then I made the second one with Crushed Curry stamp pad for the background and Melon Mambo for the Friends F. I think I like this one better. Let me know which one you prefer. I'd love to hear your comments.

Thanks for coming to see me today and if you have some time get your fingers inky!! :0)

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

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http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Sweet Little Card

Another beautiful card created by Katja Pastor for Stamp Camp. Ok, so you don't have time to make a full size card...how about a 3 x 3 card?? Yes, you have a smaller area to decorate but with our Sweet Pea Stitched Felt flowers you can have this card done in about 2 minutes...seriously!! Don't have the Felt flowers, how about using one of our amazing punches?? Just punch out a flower using our Extra Large Flower Fancy punch. Add a button to the center and voila!! A totally cute quick card.


I just wanted to let you all know that I sincerely appreciate you visiting me. It just makes me smile every time I come here and have a comment or two. So, if you have the time, let me know if you're enjoying the projects I've been showing you. Also, if you want to see something in particular, just let me know. I'm happy to show you what you'd like to see.


Have a super wonderful day!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe
Stampin' Up! Demonstrator
Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Visit My Blog:
http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/
Home: 510/440-9053
Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Surfer Boy

Yeah, it's Wednesday...the weekend is getting closer!!

Here's a total boy's card created by Katja Pastor for our last Stamp Camp. Don't you just love the colors she used?? Real Red, Old Olive & Bashful Blue. Check out the tie embellishment...It's hemp twine, Bashful Blue & Real Red 1/4" Grosgrain Ribbon!! What a great idea using the Large Brads to anchor them. She also used some Dazzling Diamonds glitter on the waves!! It really sparkles in person. If you have a boy birthday coming up this would make an awesome card for him.

Thanks for stopping in today. I hope your day is radical dude!!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

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See Projects, Promotions,
Catalogs, Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

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Blog: http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Puffy Flowers

Happy Tuesday!!

Well, I've been thinking of making this card for a while now and I finally got it done. I used our Circle Die #2 with our Big Shot and cut some fabric. I then used my sewing machine to sew the circles together, leaving a little opening to fill the flowers with fiber fill. Then I just sewed some of our oh-so-cute Designer buttons to the centers. Added some of our awesome Designer Series Paper and there you have it!! A Puffy Flower card! I do have one tip though...Don't fill your flowers too full with the fiber fill and when you sew your buttons on they will sink into the flower more to give it a little more dimension.

Well, that's it for today...I hope you have a wonderful day and thanks bunches for stopping by!!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

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http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Black Magic

No not the black magic you're thinking of...I don't know any real magic tricks. LOL!! This is a magic coloring technique. Using your White Craft Pad, stamp your solid image on Basic Black cardstock. Wait for it to dry or, if you're like me and can't wait, use your heat tool to dry the ink. Then, using your watercolor pencils, color over the white stamped image. I've used 4 colors here. Light Pink, Dark Pink, Light Green & Dark Green. Use your light color first and color your image. Then, use your dark color and highlight or add shading. That's it. It's so simple!! Then use your White Gel Pen if you'd like the white detail. I love this technique and will be trying it on larger images next.

So, have a super great Monday and thanks for taking the time to come see me.

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,

See Projects, Promotions,

Catalogs, Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Juicy Pear

Here's a cute pear card I got from Debbie Colbacchini at one of our get togethers. I just love this color combo. Green, yellow & chocolate!! Yummy! Check out the close up of the yellow pear, Debbie used some Crystal Effects to make the pear juicy!! I'm licking my lips right now. Gotta' go have a pear!!

Thanks for stopping by today!!

Hope you're having beautiful weather and enjoying every bit of it!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,
See Projects, Promotions,

Catalogs, Join My Team!

http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/

Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Milk Carton Set

Here's a cute little gift set I created with our Milk Carton Die for the Big Shot. I actually ordered the kit from Becky Roberts. I don't know if the kit is still available but you can check with Becky by going to her blog here: http://inkingidaho.blogspot.com/2010/01/mini-milk-carton-container-tutorial-now.html. I just think this is the cutest little gift set ever!! This one's decorated for Easter but you can decorate it for ANY occasion. Speaking of occasion...the Milk Carton Die is only available until the end of this month so, if you want it you need to order it quickly before it's gone! Just shoot me an email or give me a call to order yours. Don't forget, you can always order online through my Stampin' Up! website and you will get a discount!!! Who doesn't want a discount!??!! Ok, that's it for today. Thanks for coming to visit me, I really appreciate it!

Have a wonderful day!

Lorraine Castellon-Rowe

Stampin' Up! Demonstrator

Shop Online, View Events,

See Projects, Promotions,

Catalogs, Join My Team!
http://www.lorraine.stampinup.net/
Visit My Blog:

http://www.lorrainerowe.blogspot.com/

Home: 510/440-9053

Cell: 408/757-6373

Stamp Studio: 510/573-7693

Flower Card

Happy Wednesday!!

Here's an Easter Flower Card I forgot to share with you. Although it's an Easter Card all you would need to do is change the sentiment and it could be a birthday, Mother's Day, thank you or just an all occasion card.

It's made with the Flower Folds Die for the Big Shot. I've used all the flowers from the die and just layered them. The butterfly is made with some cardstock I had in my stash and it was punched out using our Butterfly Punch. The sentiment is stamped in Basic Black and is from the Well Scripted set of 6 sayings in the Occasions Mini catalog and is only available until the end of this month!! It was then punched out using our Scallop Oval punch and layered on the Wide Oval Punch. The center of the flower was stamped with the Itty Bitty Backgrounds stamp set in Basic Black and also punched out with the 1 1/4" Circle Punch.

This was a very quick and easy card to make. Perfect for when you have a lot of cards to make. Our Big Shot Dies and punches are great tools to have around when you need a quick card!

Thanks for visiting me today I hope you get a chance to stamp and have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

New & New Old Colors

Ok, so, I'm just too excited about our new colors coming out and the fact that we're bringing back some of my favorite old colors I just had to make a card using them. I've used our NEW Daffodil Delight and our NEW OLD Tangerine Tango on these cute circle flowers. As a demonstrator we sometimes get a little sample of new things coming out. Wednesday I received our Stampin' Success (our monthly magazine from SU!) with cardstock samples of our new colors coming out in July!!! I wasn't going to use the samples but then I thought, why not??!!?? I just couldn't wait any longer to cut into these beautiful colors to make a card!!! So, here it is!!! I hope you like my card and most of all I hope you like the new and new old colors I used!!

Thanks for coming to see me today. If you have time I'd love to hear what you think of the new colors and the old colors coming back. Leave me a little comment and let me know!

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

Stamin' Up! Color Renovation!!

Stampin' Up! has done it again!!! They know what colors are hot and what colors are cooling off so they have revamped our color families to keep us all current with the new styles!!

We will be bringing back 10 very popular colors and 5 NEW colors and saying goodbye to some old favorites. WOO HOO!!

Don't worry, if you have a favorite color that is retiring...you have until June 30th to stock up on those important items you'll need...Ink Refills, Cardstock, buttons, brads, ribbons, etc.

Below I have a chart which shows the New Color Collections (available July 1!) and a chart which shows the colors we'll be letting go (June 30).

Click the pictures below to see a larger version.

NEW COLOR COLLECTIONS

RETIRING COLORS

I hope you're as excited as I am about our New Color Collection!!
Thank you for visiting and have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

Sneak Peek & A New Promotion!!!

With the brand new Two-Step into Spring promotion, not only will you be able to purchase a sneak peek stamp set... BUT you'll also SAVE 20% on the Two-Step Stampin' sets pictured at the end of this post.

Awash with Flowers is your SNEAK PEEK into the 2010-2011 Idea Book & Catalog. Be the first to add this stamp set to your collection.

Hostesses

Host a $350 workshop and receive the brand-new Two-Step Awash with Flowers stamp set FREE!

Item Description
117062 Awash with Flowers (wood-mount)
120549 Awash with Flowers (clear-mount)

Customers

Item Description Price
117062 Awash with Flowers (wood-mount) $39.95
120549 Awash with Flowers (clear-mount) $27.95

Plus, purchase spring-themed Two-Step Stampin' sets at 20%OFF the retail price--no additional purchase necessary!

Qualifying stamp sets are listed and pictured below:

Item Page Description Discount Price
113824 94 Greenhouse Garden $20.76
113734 98 Fifth Avenue Floral $19.96
111578 101 Flower Fancy $29.56
113258 112 Trendy Trees $14.36

Go directly to my SU! Website and order these sets now! www.lorraine.stampinup.net when you get there just click Shop Now!

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

113824 Greenhouse Garden $20.76

113734 Fifth Avenue Floral $19.96

111578 Flower Fancy $29.56

113258 Trendy Trees $14.36

Spring Violets

Well, now that spring is officially here I thought I'd make some flowers. I've always liked the beautiful, vibrant colors of violets and when I saw a picture of a project made with this technique, I knew I had to try it. It was Sage Kimble's project that I had seen that made me want to try this technique. You can see Sage's project here.

To make these flowers I used our butterfly punch and watercolor cardstock. Punch out 2 butterflies. Color the centers with Summer Sun Marker and the outside with Lovely Lilac. Don't completely color the cardstock with your markers. Just scribble along edge and the centers then use the Aqua Pen to watercolor and blend. It's that simple. I do recommend water coloring the centers then water coloring the edges last. Layer the butterflies, connect with a brad (I used black) and glue to your card.

To make the oval and scallop oval layers I used my Colluzzle for the Summer Sun and then cut a strip of Lovely Lilac and scalloped the edge with the Scallop Edge punch. Cut snips into the scallop strip (the bottom edge, not the scallop edge) and lay it on to the back edge of the Summer Sun layer. Adhere with our sticky strip to get a good hold.

Pretty easy card and I really enjoyed water coloring the violets. I hope you give it a try.

Thank you for stopping by to visit me today and I hope you're enjoying our beautiful spring weather.

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

Chocolate Bunny Easel Card

Here's another chocolate bunny card I made. We'll be making this card at stamp camp on Sunday. If you missed the deadline for stamp camp, don't worry, we'll have another one soon.

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

A Great Place for Cards, Friends & Fun

I have been a member of this wonderful group for about a year now and I think it's about time I share it with you...Late Night Stampers Yahoo Group. If you are a demonstrator or want to become one, this is the group for you!!! We all need more friends, right? How about an endless supply of ideas for cards, scrapbook pages, home decor items, gift ideas?? Yes, this is the place to be. So, what are you waiting for, click here to sign up for this incredible group!!! AND, if you aren't a demonstrator how about joining the non-demo group of Stampin' Up! Late Night Stampers Group? Click here to join this group! Seriously, do you have enough friends? Card samples? Ideas to stamp? I will never have enough that's why I'm a member of both groups!! Come join us now!

Have a wonderful day!
Lorraine

Downline Meeting

Happy Monday!
Here are the cards we traded and made at our downline meeting last week. WOW, I have some talented ladies on my team!! If you've ever thought about becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator NOW is the time. Our starter kit is on sale until March 31st for $169!!! That is a serious deal considering all the products you get in the kit are worth over $335!! PLUS, you can order an extra FREE stamp set from any of our current catalogs!!! You can't beat that with a stick!! LOL!! Email me if you have any questions: Ltrain26@comcast.net

Have a great week and thanks for stopping by to see me!

Designed & Created by Edra JandroDesigned by Edra Jandro/made by LorraineDesigned by Joyce Cram/made by LorraineDesigned by Joyce Cram/made by Lorraine
Designed & Created by Rosemarrie Gonzalez Designed by Rosemarrie Gonzalez/made by LorraineDesigned & Created by Lorraine Castellon-Rowe. I got this great layout from Dawn Olchefske. You can see her original card by clicking here.Designd & Created by Lorraine Castellon-Rowe