Birthday Card Swap - Due April 1st Sign Ups Being taken.

[ChrisDurnan]

Anyone interested in a birthday card swap? I am thinking 4 of the same cards in and I will send you 4 different cards back (we'd have to have a minimum of 4 for each category). Postmarked by April 1st. And we could do a male group, female group, kids group. and you can sign up for as many times as you'd like to send in groups of 4.


I just would like to have some homemade cards to hand out this year at birthdays.

Final Details:

Final Size is 4.25x5.5 or A2 and no envelopes needed.

Packages postmarked by April 1st

Placed in a ziplock bag with your name and group and address on a sheet inside for each time you sign up.

Return postage included in package.

Sign ups

Female Theme
1. rpcrafter - rec'd
2. Scramper - rec'd
3. ChrisDurnan
4. Tina Cardiology - rec'd
5. PaminSD - rec'd
6. Dreamin (Lisa)- rec'd
7. iowascrapmouse
8. bzyptmom - rec'd
9.cropangel (Sheryl)- rec'd
10. sarahwms - rec'd
11. PattiA -
12. Jill C. - rec'd
13. tawilson - rec'd

Male Theme
1. Chris Durnan
2. RSMobley - rec'd
3. Esther W-B - rec'd
4. Sandra from NC - rec;d
5. Pam in SD rec'd
6. Tina Cardiology - rec'd
7. Carolkn -rec;d
8. bzyptmom - recd
9. cropangel - rec'd
10. sarahwms - rec'd
11. Sandra from NC - rec'd
12. tawilson - rec'd

Kid Theme
1. Pam in SD - rec'd
2. Tina Cardiology - rec;d
3. iowascrapmouse
4. Carolkn - rec
5. cropangel - rec
6. sarahwms - rec
7. Jill C.- rec

[rpcrafter]

I love the idea! I want to participate.

Renae

[ewoobenjamin]

Sounds like fun Chris. Depending on the final details, I may participate. Some thoughts: A2 is a popular size for card swaps because you can get 4 card fronts out of an 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of card stock and envelopes of this size are easy to find. Unless people are going to decorate the envelopes, including them with the swap is sort of redundant because you have to buy envelopes anyway so there's no need to send them out just to get them back again (and postage would be cheaper without envies).
Esther W-B

[scramper75]

I would love to join in a swap like this BUT I can ONLY do one spot, more than that would be too much for me right now with school starting next week. After this I will NOT join in any swaps.

[paminsd]

Yes
Pam in SD

[ChrisDurnan]

Hahah. Elizabeth. We won't hold you to that statement.

thinking all those details sound perfect! I will reupdate the thread tomorrow and see if anyone wants to sign up.

I am off to do laundry, eat dinner, and hang out with the guys.

Have a great evening!
EnjoY!
Chris

[scramper75]

ok so go ahead and count me in on this swap for a girly spot.. and YES I will only do one spot, I will only do one spot, I will only do one spot, I will only do one spot!!!
Maybe tomorrow i will sign up for a boy spot, if they are not all taken :P

[rpcrafter]

I would like a girly spot too.

Renae

[rsmobley85]

Oh man, So hard to resist a challenge!..


Let me think about it and see if I can squeeze it in. I have an new stampset to use, that would be perfect for a mans card.


Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

It's not until April 1st Sharon. You can squeeze it in when you are just done done done with wedding and need a momentary break. hahah

[rsmobley85]

Yeah, I was thinking about that, Did I tell you, DH decided yesterday, we are putting wood floors in 3 rooms all next week, Jeez!

Okay Sign me up for the mens.

Thanks Chris,
Sharon

[ewoobenjamin]

Please sign me up for the male theme.
Esther W-B

[rpcrafter]

Yeah, I was thinking about that, Did I tell you, DH decided yesterday, we are putting wood floors in 3 rooms all next week, Jeez!

Okay Sign me up for the mens.

Thanks Chris,
Sharon

WOW, right before a wedding?! We just did that here (three rooms) and we lived in chaos for a while. We of course did it in the middle of the holidays and we hosted Christmas Eve AND Christmas dinner! Are you doing it yourself? We also painted and replaced floor boards, so we still are not completely done. UGH!

Good Luck!

Renae

[Sandra from NC]

Add me to the Male theme:).

[paminsd]

Sign me up for male theme and kids theme.
Pam in SD

[Games]

Added everyone before this post.;)

[gadgetgrl]

Add me to all three themes.. Thanks.. I happen to be making BD cards for family this year.. I am through April birthdays right now.. Have to get busy on them again..

ADDED

[paminsd]

Go ahead and sign me up for the female theme too. Shoot, I might as well do them all!:)
Pam in SD

ADDED

[ChrisDurnan]

hahah. will do Pam!

I think after this one we will post a Christmas in July Card theme maybe. either due on July 1st or due Sept. something like that. To be done early with xmas cards would be nice!!.

[Dreamin]

Sign me up for the Female theme!

added

[iowascrapmouse]

I would like to be in the female and kid swaps....

Mickey
http://bugmusings.blogspot.com
ADDED

[carolkn]

O.K. I had thought about signing up for the calendar swap, but decided I didn't have enough time with the holidays, so now that the holidays are over this should be a lot of fun. So, sign me up for the male and kids. If I get these done soon, I'll think about doing the other.

Thanks.

Carol

added

[bzyPTmom28]

Hmm--I'd really like to do this. So even if more than 4 people we still only do 4 cards--and all 4 same design? If that's the case--please sign me up for male and female--don't give too many kid cards anymore. And I guess if we have to make more than 4, if they are all the same design no problem. Now I just need some time--April is also a big BD month--I think I have 5 family member BD's that month.

added

[cropangel]

I would like to sign up for this and for all of them. I think i can handle doing this by april right now is busy but it is slowing down and will make me do things


added
Sheryl

[Games]

I was wondering if you would make various groups of 4 (if there are more than 4 sign ups). :confused:

[ChrisDurnan]

?? not really sure.. was thinking.. if you send me 4 i will send you 4 back. If you want to sign up twice and send in 2 sets of 4. I will send you back 8. This is if there are more then 8 in the group...

You mean break the groups of 4 down... i.e. group 1 group 2?? that might work to.

[Games]

Yep, 1 group of 4 and 2nd group of 4...if needed. ;)

[sarahwms]

Yep, 1 group of 4 and 2nd group of 4...if needed. ;)

NOOOOO...cause then I would have to sign up for ALL the groups!! I LIKE the idea of 4 in, 4 out (sorta like the recipe swap). At least if I don't see the other cards I won't know what I am missing!!!

(and yes, I am signing up for all groups...I am a SUCKER for cards!)

(added myself)

[ChrisDurnan]

hahhah. Sarah .. we'll probably just leave it cause that way if anyone has an issue at the last minute I am not short a person in a group.

:) I think we will do it that way tho' for future swaps break it down by groups for more themes. :) Was trying to keep the numbers small so folks would jump in.

So ..

I better run. off to the next errands. played in the snow this a.m. wew.
off I go
Enjoy!
Chris

[PattiA]

Please count me in for female cards.
Sounds like fun. 4 in right???
Thanks
Patti

Added

[rsmobley85]

I have a odd question!

Can we do stamped cards for this birthday challenge? Or do we have to use our cutters.

Just wondering. My cutter has been moved to another room untill the floors are done.

Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

I am going to do stamped. you can do whatever you want.

[ChrisDurnan]

Yes 4 in Patti :)

[rsmobley85]

awesome, thanks Chris.

Sharon

[Jill C.]

Hi! I would like to join in the girly and kid swap if they are still open!

ADDED

[ChrisDurnan]

Yep will keep it open til beginning of March then shut it down so I don't have to keep up. :-) Have to postmark by April 1st.

[carolkn]

I have a odd question!

Can we do stamped cards for this birthday challenge? Or do we have to use our cutters.

Just wondering. My cutter has been moved to another room untill the floors are done.

Sharon

Thanks for asking...I was wondering the same thing.

Carol

[ChrisDurnan]

My mailing address can be found on the contacts page...
http://www.visualdesignsbychris.com/contact.html


Please make sure to put your name in the bag on a slip of paper and your group.

This way i can seperate them easily and make sure I keep it organized.

I have a few emails asking for the address so thought I would post here.

Thanks to everyone participating. Enjoy!
Chris

[Sandra from NC]

Ok so here's my story...

Last night I pulled out the stamp sets I wanted to use for this swap. I found the Stampin' Up catalog with examples in it for inspiration. I got inspired and started creating. I made two cards and decided I show one to my son to see what he thought. I was, after all, making masculine cards, right? And occasionally and I emphasize occasionally he likes what I make - lol.

so I walk to him and explain the swap and what I'm making then hold up my card and say, "what do you think? Masculine enough?" (oh, he is 15 and half)

His response (and I hope I don't offend anyone): "It's gay!"
me: WHAT?
him: the colors, they are gay. (and he didn't mean the happy word)
me: no they're not they are vintage. It is a vintage looking card.
him: no it's not, it's gay. use blue.
me: no, I'm not changing colors.
him: get rid of the charm. guys don't like charms
me: never mind...

and I go back to my scraproom shaking my head wondering why I even asked him and finished making the other two cards - baahahahaha.

So you want to know what a gay card looks like? Here they are...

And I plan to make one similar to this for my dad and brother's birthdays next month but will use a pocket knife stamp instead of the pocket watch. Neither of them carry pocket watches :).

and Chris - put me down for another set of Men's cards. I have another stamp set I want to use ;).



ADDED

[ChrisDurnan]

Sandra this is hillarious! I totally get it. haha. I think they are awesome...hahaha.

[sarahwms]

Sandra,

Gay or not, I like them! LOL!!

[ewoobenjamin]

Love your VINTAGE card Sandra and that was a funny story :)
Esther W-B

[Games]

I don't think so, I like them. You know he is a teenager and they only seem to want gift cards or money.;)

[bzyPTmom28]

This is a hoot--look like great cards to me! Yeah, I have an 18 yo son--he's hurt if I don't make him a special card, but then sometimes gives me grief if I do. He does sometimes give me good advice on color and placement of things, he has a good eye about that stuff. He should, he's a film major in college.

[tawilson1447]

Can I sign up for the male and female?
ADDED

[ChrisDurnan]

Yes I will add you...

[ewoobenjamin]

This is my card for the Male Birthday swap. I decided to go with a vintage theme too, with an old truck.
Esther W-B

[paminsd]

LOVE it Esther! Is that a Stamp Up stamp? I really like it.
Pam in SD

[ewoobenjamin]

Thanks Pam. Do you mean the 'Happy Birthday'? That was printed on my ink jet printer directly onto the card stock.
Esther W-B

[scramper75]

WOW those cards are awesome.

Sandra, I really like your card and it is not gay!!!

Now I am really wanting to join in the boy card, but I am not sure if I will have time, we shall see. I am still working on the girl card. I have to finish it tonight so I can do nothing but homework tomorrow.

[paminsd]

No, the old pickup, that's so cute!
Pam in SD

[ewoobenjamin]

Oh, the pickup is a cut file from Mamaw's Legacy. I used DCWV cardstock and sanded it.
Esther W-B

[ChrisDurnan]

That is really cool :)

[scramper75]

Crap!! I finished my cards and went back to the original post to make sure all was good and now realize my cards are not the right size, they are 4x6 is this going to be a problem??

I really like the way they turned out. They are "easel" cards. I guess it is a new and popular thing with cards, we had made one at a card day a few weeks ago and it was so much fun I had to recreate it. Of course with a different stamp set. I love this set and it has so much more than what I have on this card, the set is "Dreams and Dragons" by Stampin Up.

[ChrisDurnan]

These are beautiful Elizabeth. I personally wouldn't have a problem with them and don't think anyone else will. cute cute.
Enjoy!
Chris

[ewoobenjamin]

Elizabeth, this is soooo cute!
Esther W-B

[rsmobley85]

Thats cute, I seen that card template done on a blog the other day, and loved it, thought about doing it my self, Jeez. need to get other stuff done, So I can do my cards.

Sharon

[scramper75]

Thanks Ladies, Chris as soon as I can get out and get to the post office I will put them in the mail.

I colored the image in with my copic markers, it is much nicer in real life :)

[Dreamin]

Elizabeth, those are adorable!

I'm putting my cards in the mail tomorrow. Boy, did I have a problem making these. I usually make bigger cards so this was great for me to try....I made them so fast! :) Hope everyone enjoys them.

[rpcrafter]

Sent mine in today. Hopefully I did this all correctly as I have never done a swap before. I have only done file swaps before.

I can't wait to see what eveyone did!

Renae
rpcrafter

[bzyPTmom28]

Your cards look wonderful--but is this challenge not due until April 1st? You guys are making me look bad. I have question--are we putting messages on the inside or just doing the outside? Doesn't make any difference to me, just wanna know--I know the card size is A2 and we don't send enives-is that right?

[scramper75]

Yes, yes and Yes...lol oh wait.... I do not think it matters if you place a sentiment inside or not.
I finished mine early because of school, wanted to make sure they were not late or anything.

[rpcrafter]

Did mine early as well. I never know when I will get the time, so I thought I should do them at my first opportunity so I didn't miss the date altogether. We are also going out of town the end of March, so I need to prepare for that.

So, no pressure to get them done early.

Renae
rpcrafter

[rsmobley85]

I scheduled one play day this coming week, and the plan is to make 6 mans birthday cards, Send in 4, keep 2. So I dont get behind.

I will have to see if I have some thing manly for the insides.

Sharon

[sarahwms]

OK...Men's and Women's cards are done! Got what I needed for the Kid's cards yesterday, so after my MRI and Dr's appointments today, I will get started on them! I super excited...I REALLY hope the Kid's ones come out the way I envision.....will post a pic when I get them done!

[ChrisDurnan]

I have gotten some of these in. A few don't have return postage but I makred my calendar to go through them on tuesday of next week and update this thread. My Dad is here this weekend from Wisconsin. so trying to keep it light because I have to clean the house today and he comes tomorrow. haha. seems we always plan double weekends to do stuff.

Thanks for everyone for getting these done and to me.

Enjoy!
Chris

[cropangel]

I just got all my cards packaged up and will take to the post office later on my way to work. I am so bad about mailing things they have been done for about a week and yet not mailed.

Sheryl

[ChrisDurnan]

I have a few packages here waiting for after the 1st. Can't wait to see everyone's work. :) Enjoy!
Chris

[rsmobley85]

I just finished all my SIL Wedding stuff about 5 minutes ago. So now need to get on this swap. And get it mailed out.

Im about half way to caught up. Woo Hoo!

Sharon

[Games]

WOOHOO Sharon! :cool:

[Sandra from NC]

Here is my second set:).

[bzyPTmom28]

Great cards Sandra! I'm working on mine---I'm impressed with everyone who got them done already.

[paminsd]

Mine are in the mail Chris, it cost a little over $2 to mail it, and I put 8 stamps in for you, just keep the leftovers. I forgot to take pics of my cards, darn it.
Pam in SD

[ChrisDurnan]

Thank you Pam!! I can't wait to swap these out.

[scramper75]

WOW these are so awesome. I am loving all of these cards it is making me wish I had signed up for more.

[cropangel]

I did finally get to the post office it has been that kind of week. I am just glad they are done and in the mail.

I will post the ones i did I loved how they turned out.

Sheryl

[gadgetgrl]

OOH I almost forgot this one. I will do my best to have mine in the Mail on Monday.. EEK

[ChrisDurnan]

It's Post mark by April 1st so you have time! :) Everyone's is beautiful!

[rsmobley85]

I spent the day at Jill's house today and I got my 4 cards done for the men's birthday swap. Woo hoo! One more thing off my list to being caught up.

I stamped , embossed and water colored the horse, then clear embosses the entire horse. Then inked the back ground of the horse in 3 colors. Used nesties ovals to cut and mat. Then used different nesties for the other mats. Used book plate with brads, for the title and corners. And stamped the saying and inked. Used ribbon, and inked the edges.

I thin it looks manly, My DH loved it.

Sharon

[rsmobley85]

Here is Jill C. Card. She is having picture issues with her W7 upgrade, all her picture and media programs are missing. So Im posting for her.

She used White cardstock for the back, Pattern paper, then 2 colors cardstock for mats, nesties for the layers, The black with green is coordination cardstock, White cardstock and Pattern paper. She used Ribbon, and stamped and the saying, then dipped the edges in glue then glitter. And used Bling.


Jill is working on her Kids birthday cards, I will post those when she gets them done.

Chris, I will be mailing mine and Jills together.

Sharon

[Games]

Beautiful cards ladies.


Love the horse Sharon. :D

[rsmobley85]

Thanks Ginger,

I just bought that set of Horses, Of course its a Inkadinkado set. (my addiction!) And thought it would be a great manly card. I knew there would be some horse lovers out there. LOL!

Sharon

[bzyPTmom28]

Beautiful cards everyone--I have my stamping done, just need to assemble--just too much work this week.

[paminsd]

Great cards girls. Looking forward to the swap!
Pam in SD

[ewoobenjamin]

Wow, those are all great cards.
Esther WB

[ChrisDurnan]

Oh man how beautiful!!!!!! I think I have that set of horse stamps. but ahhh. I have a few. :-)

[rsmobley85]

Now, how did I know you would have horse stamps. LOL!

Here is a link to that set, I seen it and thought it was absolutely beautiful images of horses with a ton of detail.

http://www.123stitch.com/cgi-perl/itemdetail.pl?item=INKA-99540

Sharon

[carolkn]

I remembered to take pictures, so here they are. I should be getting mine in the mail in the next couple of days. (Man Card and Kid Card)

[ChrisDurnan]

Wow Carol.
These are gonna be so hard to swap out with all my ooohs and ahhhs! How cute everyone!

[rsmobley85]

Cute Elephant.

What is the paper on the card with the tree. The one used with the embossing folder. It looks kid of shinny with streaks of color.

Sharon

[ewoobenjamin]

Those are beautiful Carol.
Esther WB

[Games]

Wonderful cards. Love that back ground paper! ;)

[carolkn]

The background paper on the tree card is a new technique I recently came across. I just tried to find the video to link to it and wasn't able to find it. I'll have to look on my computer at home when I have a little more time. It is plain cardstock with silver embossing powder over the entire surface, then run through the embossing folder, then I used alchohol inks for the streaking of color. I hope that makes sense.

Carol

Cute Elephant.

What is the paper on the card with the tree. The one used with the embossing folder. It looks kid of shinny with streaks of color.

Sharon

[rsmobley85]

Yep, I understand all that. I use all those things. LOL! Just never tried them together.

Thanks for the information.

Sharon

[Games]

yep, same here. Thank you for letting us know. :) I do love it.

[bzyPTmom28]

Oooh, very cool technique and cute cards--I have mine part way done--hoped to assemble today but Pam was in town and met up with her instead!

[sarahwms]

WOW! What great cards!! Mine are done (had to get them done before my knee surgery) and have been mailed! Here are pics of mine...of course I had to do all three! I did enclose envelopes for the Kid's Theme cards...mine are quite bulky and needed special ones!

Thanks Chris for hosting! I don't envy you having to divvy these all up!

[ewoobenjamin]

Those are all great Sarah, but I especially love the middle one - it's so gorgeous! Did the background paper come that way or did you cut all those strips yourself?
Esther WB

[sarahwms]

Those are all great Sarah, but I especially love the middle one - it's so gorgeous! Did the background paper come that way or did you cut all those strips yourself?
Esther WB

THANKS!
Actually it's called a Paper Lantern technique....I stamped my images, then rolled the CS thru a crimper and then ink the raised edges! Quite simple!

[ewoobenjamin]

Well, I love it - it's very effective. Thanks for the info. I just googled it and found some instructions. Will definitely have to give it a try!
Esther WB

[Dreamin]

Beautiful cards ladies! I can't wait to gt these in the mail, excited!!!

[Games]

Wow Sarah! they are awesome! :D

[scramper75]

WOW am very excited to be getting some of these wonderful cards. Great job ladies.

[gadgetgrl]

Thanks for looking they will be in the mail to Chris tomorrow... :)

Tina

[scramper75]

great cards Tina :)

[Games]

Looks great Tina!;)

[sarahwms]

I like them Tina! I'm excited to get some of these wonderful cards back...

[ewoobenjamin]

Beautiful cards Tina!
Esther WB

[Jill C.]

Hey Ladies- I've been MIA from this thread, but I have been busy! Thanks, Sharon for posting my card ( DARN that computer and windows 7)- I've run through all the posts and I'm loving the talent on here! I can't wait to get them back! I have my cards for the kids birthday done and they will go out in the morning, Chris. I'm on my way to Georgia to take care of my Mama for a week. Hopefully, after this next week, I will have computer issues taken care of and I can show you the new scrap room and the new organization that I have done. (It's been exhausting and would have been impossible without Sharon's help - and yes, she worked so hard to help ME even with a 2 weddings, a floor and a garden to put in!) WHAT A WOMAN! She can bring home the bacon and fry it up in a pan.....(remember that ole commercial?!?!?!)
Talk to y'all in a week.....
Jill C.

[ChrisDurnan]

have fun with Mama, Jill C.

[bzyPTmom28]

These cards are awesome--I need to take photos of mine and they'll go out in the mail, hopefully tomorrow. I have 2 more challenge things to complete today! Darn job just messes with my craft time!

[rsmobley85]

I didnt make it out of the house today, Trying to get caught on stuff, and Im almost there. So tomorrow, I will go and mail my manly card and Jill C. Womans cards.

Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

Don't forget to send postage folks. I have a few more here without. No biggy you can paypal me with it. but wanted to send a reminder.

Thank you also those who sent a hostess gift. I wasn't expecting any. So it was a fun surprise and has my brain just going.

Enjoy!
Chris

[scramper75]

Chris, Did I include postage?? Can't remember as it has been awhile since I sent my package. Also is it customary to send a hostess "gift" ?? I guess I don't want to be stingy or rude...lol

[ChrisDurnan]

No you don't have to. I wasn't expecting any (I know some do) and when I pulled some of the packages open extra things fell out. This is the first time I have hosted a swap. So I had to sit for a minute and ponder why the extra stuff. Then I remembered. how sad huh?

I will check later on :-) I am stockpiling them right now. but Sarah sent a box so I had to see what is in it and then got addicted and started ripping through things. woops. Those pink piggy cards are sooooooo cute!!!! As is everything else. but wow. lots and lots! okay back to work i go.

no worries Elizabeth. :-)

Enjoy!
Chris

[scramper75]

ok, I just did not want to seem like I am being stingy, I have so much stuff and lots of "extras" I am willing to give away a lot of it...lol
So if you need anything for prizes let me know :)

[tawilson1447]

Chris,
I put my cards in the mail yesterday. (Female and Male swap). Thanks for hosting!
- Theresa

[ChrisDurnan]

Thanks Theresa. can't wait to see them!

[sarahwms]

but Sarah sent a box so I had to see what is in it and then got addicted and started ripping through things. woops. Those pink piggy cards are sooooooo cute!!!! As is everything else. but wow. lots and lots! okay back to work i go.

Enjoy!
Chris

Thanks Chris! Glad you got my box and liked!!! :) Enjoy the stamps!

[rsmobley85]

I mailed Mine and one set of Jill C. Cards today, Woo hoo, one more thing off my todo list. 2 more things for the forum and Im caught up. Man, that feels good, lol.

Cant wait to see the cards in person.

Sharon

[bzyPTmom28]

Ok, I'm headed to the post office while I'm out running errands this afternoon, I finally got these finished! I'll include the postage Chris, I'll stuff it in the envelope once they weigh it at the post office.

[ewoobenjamin]

Beautiful cards!
Esther WB

[rsmobley85]

Oh, Wow, those are beautiful.

What stamp is the one with the boat?

Sharon

[Games]

Beautiful cards!

[bzyPTmom28]

Glad you like the cards--the canoe one is "peaceful evening" from Northwoods stamp company--I grew up in MN and loved to go canoeing!

[paminsd]

Beautiful cards Sheri!
Pam in SD

[rsmobley85]

Thanks Sheri for the info on the stamp. Im always on the look out for more stamps. LOL!

Sharon

[Sandra from NC]

Mine should arrive any day now. Mailed them Saturday. Put stamps in for postage back and extra stamps to "buy" another envie if it's needed;).

[ChrisDurnan]

Thank you Everyone! I am waiting for just a few more to come in :)

[rsmobley85]

Chris,

Did you receive, my cards, yet, sent them out last monday or tuesday. Also, did you get one from Jill. I sent one set of hers with mine,and she mailed one set.

Thanks
Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

I am going to sit down and read all the names in the a.m. and update this thread first post. I don't want to do it with kiddo here because it will be a messssss. :)

these are gorgeous folks. The ones I peaked at.

So I will know for sure in the a.m. Sharon. or tonight after he goes to bed. :-)

[ChrisDurnan]

Okay folks I think we have given enough time for these to get here if they were supposed to be postmarked by the 1st of April. I have these stacked and am going to trade them all out tomorrow a.m. while the kiddo is at school and can't touch them all.

:-)
If you didn't send it. No biggy because we are doing 4 in and 4 out. just email me privately cdurnan@visualdesignsbychris.com I will take you off the list and not worry about where your package might be in the postal system.

Thank you.
Chris

[ChrisDurnan]

Please bear with me. This is my first swap I have hosted. I have helped a few coordinate, but my first one I have done on my own. So i am trying to work everything out before I send. :-) these are all beautiful tho'!

[ChrisDurnan]

Okay I have updated the post with the Rec'd's listed.

Waiting to hear from two ladies and have to buy three more envelopes to send in. I had enough, but somebody decided he wanted to write envelopes to with a black sharpie and then glued them shut so they were ready to send. (ahhhh the help of a 6 year old. At least he kept the sharpie away from the cards cause they were in baggies.) . Thank you to those who sent envelopes along with.

So yeah we are on the home stretch!!!

If I don't hear from them I am just gonna dump them all in the mail.

this was so difficult because they are so beautifullll!!!

Next time I am gonna beg everyone to make one extra to send to me. I just didn't want to part with them!

So thank you. I learned alot from my first swap because I have been asked so many times to do host them. I even now have a bag with the suppleis, baggies and envelopes :-) It is a little work, but so wonderful to see everything.

Enjoy everyone!
Chris

[rsmobley85]

Thanks for hosting Chris,

I cant wait to see the cards in person.

I made one extra card, just so I could keep it. LOL!

Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

hahahahaha. Next time I am gonna ask .. you wait... :-)

[rsmobley85]

Hey, I think that is only fair, as your the hostess. I like that idea. I might have to host one. LOL!

Sharon

[sarahwms]

Chris,
Hosting is a little work, but the payoff of getting to see everyone's creations (not just the ones that you get back) is worth it!! Pics are great, but seeing them IRL is SSOO much better!!!
THANKS for hosting and I agree, sending one extra for the hostess shouldn't be too much to ask! (said by a former hostess! LOL!)

[ChrisDurnan]

Hahaha. Love it Sarah! Oh by the way. Iam keeping all of yours. haha. not true, but my son says... Mom why aren't yours cool like that? I said. ahhh because I am not Sarah. haha.

[sarahwms]

Hahaha. Love it Sarah! Oh by the way. Iam keeping all of yours. haha. not true, but my son says... Mom why aren't yours cool like that? I said. ahhh because I am not Sarah. haha.


:o AWWW...You are making me blush.....THANKS!! And I have extra's, so let me know which ones you didn't keep of mine and I will slip them into the mail for you (and your precious son!)!!

[bzyPTmom28]

I think it would be a great idea to send an "extra" for the hostess! I was hoping you could reuse my envie Chris, that's why I had a card you could just attach to the outside with my address. The CK convention is today--so I better get moving and go! Wish you could go too!

[Sandra from NC]

Next time I am gonna beg everyone to make one extra to send to me. I just didn't want to part with them!

So thank you. I learned alot from my first swap because I have been asked so many times to do host them. I even now have a bag with the suppleis, baggies and envelopes :-) It is a little work, but so wonderful to see everything.

Enjoy everyone!
Chris

Hey, I think that is only fair, as your the hostess. I like that idea. I might have to host one. LOL!

Sharon

Chris,
Hosting is a little work, but the payoff of getting to see everyone's creations (not just the ones that you get back) is worth it!! Pics are great, but seeing them IRL is SSOO much better!!!
THANKS for hosting and I agree, sending one extra for the hostess shouldn't be too much to ask! (said by a former hostess! LOL!)

Chris - hosting is fun and work!!! And I totally agree on the extra card request!!!!

[Dreamin]

The CK convention is today--so I better get moving and go! Wish you could go too!


I went to CK in St. Louis last weekend, we had a BLAST!

[ChrisDurnan]

These are all in the mail. :-)

[Jill C.]

I am so sorry that I forgot to make a "hostess" one- this is usually the norm in a swap, but this is the first one I've participated in, in quite a while, so I did the head smack thing about an hour after I had put the 2nd batch in the post. Next time I'll do better- thanks for hosting this Chris- I can't wait to see what comes in the mail!

[ChrisDurnan]

No problem Jill C. I couldn't decide on which was the nicest or the best because they were alllll beautiful. I didn't make any myself and just sent them all back out after mooning over them. They were wonderful!

I hope everyone is happy with what they get and participates in the next one.


Enjoy!
Chris

[scramper75]

Awesome Chris, i am excited to get them back and drool.

[ChrisDurnan]

Of course after I sent them. I thought. ugh I should check one more time. One more time. :-)

[rsmobley85]

Woo Hoo! Just got home from picking up my new canoe, and checked the mail and only one thing in the box.

Yep. Happy Mail!

Love all the beautiful cards. Thanks so much every one for playing along.

Thank you Chris for hosting the swaps. And the cards arrived just fine.
Sharon

[cropangel]

I just got my cards too they are all wonderful thanks everyone.
Thank you Chris for hosting.

Sheryl

[gadgetgrl]

Me too wonderful job everyone

[scramper75]

Wahhh, i wanna see. Hopefully mine will be in my mailbox when I get home.

[ewoobenjamin]

I just got my cool cards. Thanks for hosting Chris and thanks to everyone who participated. Now I have a nice stash of cards to use.

Esther WB

[ChrisDurnan]

Glad to know everyone is getting them :-)

I hope I got most of it all organized right. I learned alot so thank you for being patient with me.
Enjoy!
Chris

[rpcrafter]

:(I'm still waiting. Was hoping for a surprise in the mailbox when I got home, but nothing. Probably a good thing. It was so wet today with rain/snow they might have gotten a little soggy. So hopefully I will get my surprise tomorrow!:)
Renae

[bzyPTmom28]

My cards arrived in yesterday's mail--I meant to write yesterday but I was bushed after a very hard day (and an awful week) at work! Hooray, I have today and tomorrow off! The cards are BEAUTIFUL--thanks to Chris and all who participated!

[Sandra from NC]

OH mine arrived yesterday too and I was in the yard so didn't open them and had forgotten about them :eek: - need to go open them - lol

[scramper75]

I received mine yesterday as well. Thank you Chris and to all who participated, they are amazing :)

[Dreamin]

Got back form soccer today & I have HAPPY mail!!! I love how everyone made a birthday card yet has their own unique way of making them. They are all great! Can't wait to do this again!

Thanks Chris for hosting & ladies, TY for the great cards!

[paminsd]

No cards yet.
Pam in SD

[rpcrafter]

No cards yet.
Pam in SD

Still none for me too and I am not that far from AZ. Oh well, maybe Monday!:)

Renae

[Sandra from NC]

Opened mine today - LOVE them all. Even picked out hubby's b-day card and my brother's b-day cards from them:). It's hard to do cards for my husband but thought this one would be great for him.

I'm going to give the Horse card to a friend. They have horses and I know it would be perfect for her husband or son. Hopefully one of them will be having a birthday soon :).

[rsmobley85]

The horse card was from me. Im glad you have some one to give it to. I fell in love with those images.

Sharon

[paminsd]

I hope mine arrive tomorrow, I'm getting jealous that so many of you have them now! :p
Pam in SD

[Sandra from NC]

The horse card was from me. Im glad you have some one to give it to. I fell in love with those images.

Sharon

Sharon it is gorgeous!!

[sarahwms]

WHOO-HOO!! I came home from a scrapbooking crop in NC to find that I had received my cards!! THEY ARE BEAUTIFUL!!! Thanks so much to Chris and to all that "played"!

[scramper75]

Sarah, i had received one of the cards you made and I want everything you used to make it, they were so darn cute :)

[sarahwms]

Sarah, i had received one of the cards you made and I want everything you used to make it, they were so darn cute :)

Glad you liked them...which one did you get?

[carolkn]

I got mine too. Thanks for hosting Chris and great cards everyone. It was a lot of fun!

Carol

[rpcrafter]

Still none for me too and I am not that far from AZ. Oh well, maybe Monday!:)

Renae

Well it is a happy Monday. My mailbox was filled with wonderful surprises inside. You all did a wonderful job. I am going to have a hard time parting with these beauties.

Thanks Chris for hosting. You are the hostess with the mostess.

Renae

[ChrisDurnan]

Thank you everyone.... Everyone's cards were just super cute! and wonderful. I really coulnd't drool. At one point I thought about making one for everyone to swap with so I had one for all. but it didnt work out. :-)

Glad everyone likes them. I will host another swap if anyone wants, but need some topic or idea. Was thinking in July if we did a holiday tag swap. We could have cool tags for our presents. hmm... well ideas are welcome. but it was fun so I would love to host another.

Enjoy!
Chris

[scramper75]

Sounds great Chris, I could definitely use some gift tags and i will have more time this summer :)

[rsmobley85]

I would love to do a Christmas tag swap. Sign me up

Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

hmm.. I hate to interrupt the summer vacations, but maybe I should post this... postmark by July 1st?

or is that to close? hmm

[rsmobley85]

How about Aug. I know most are busy over the summer with kids home, And they go back to school in Aug, and that would give 3 months to get them done. And with having 3 months, You would have enough time to do more then just 4 like the card swap, I would say 10. They could all be the same.



Just a thought.

Sharon

[ChrisDurnan]

I started a query thread. I think August would be good. too.

[paminsd]

I got mine on Monday as I was leaving town for a couple of days. WOW these are so good, thanks girls. And I'm saving the horse card for my granddaughter's birthday, she will love it.
Pam in SD

[ChrisDurnan]

Glad you got it!