CHA part 2
I had a fabulous dinner last night with Nichole, Emily and Nicky. We went to this fun little Italian place and the food was great. I have to say that these women are like sisters to me and I was so glad to be able to finally put my arms around them. They inspire me with their energy and creativity. I didn't fall into bed until after midnight and after walking the show all day, I just didn't have the energy to write a post. So I thought I would write one this morning before I leave for home.
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Speaking of women who inspire me, I had the opportunity to talk with Heidi Swapp. Heidi was one of the first blogs I ever read.
Years ago, I read this book- Love your Handwriting. It's a fabulous book for those of you who like to hand-write greetings on your cards and hand-journal on your scrapbook pages.
In Heidi's book, I learned that we are not limited to one "font." (In school, my teachers would get frustrated with me because I liked to change my handwriting all the time. I was always told that I needed to find one and stick with it. LOL!) Heidi's book was so encouraging and helped me to realize that writing different ways is a good thing.
That advice flowed over into my drawing and allowed me to draw both a silly crab or pig and pretty flowers and not feel limited by thinking that I should only have one distinct "Gina K. style." Heidi has been a great influence on me and has helped me grow immensely as an artist.
Another woman who I was thrilled to finally meet in person was Ali Edwards.
I bumped into Ali at the hotel and had a chance to thank her personally for her help when we launched the Autism stamp set.
Ali Edwards has been such an inspiration to me in so many ways. Of course, there are no words to describe this woman's talent. Maybe "jaw-dropping" would work.
But one of things that drew me to Ali was her drive to make a difference.
When I started my stamp company, my goal was to create stamps that would help make a difference to those in need. I wasn't sure how but I knew that somehow, it would come to pass. When Erika Martin approached me with the idea of drawing stamps to raise money for Autism, I began my search to learn more. That search brought me to Ali's blog where she was raising thousands of dollars for Autism Speaks.
I was so impressed with the way this woman was using her talents to help so I contacted Ali and she was so sweet and kind. She was so interested in what I was doing and then she directed people through one of her blog posts to my site to help build sales. In such a short time we were able to send a huge check to Autism Speaks and it was truly the birth of Stamps for a Cause.
I am so lucky to be able to finally get a chance to thank these women for their inspiration. That was one of the best parts of the CHA for me. (I will post more CHA photos after our new release.)
So guess what tomorrow is?
It's day one of our PREVIEW PARTY!!!! Woo-hoo!!!
Are you ready to be blown away by what our art team has created for you? You have to stop back tomorrow and see sneak peek of a very special stamp set created by Asela Hopkins to launch the celebration!
In the meantime, Who inspires you?
Share a short comment here about who has been your creative inspiration and I will randomly choose a winner who will win a stamp set of there choice. I will announce the winner tomorrow here on my blog. And don't forget- each day during our preview party, you can enter to win the previewed stamp set so stop by daily to enter and see everything that's new!
Have a great Monday!
Hugs,
Gina K.
. . . . .
Speaking of women who inspire me, I had the opportunity to talk with Heidi Swapp. Heidi was one of the first blogs I ever read.
Years ago, I read this book- Love your Handwriting. It's a fabulous book for those of you who like to hand-write greetings on your cards and hand-journal on your scrapbook pages.
In Heidi's book, I learned that we are not limited to one "font." (In school, my teachers would get frustrated with me because I liked to change my handwriting all the time. I was always told that I needed to find one and stick with it. LOL!) Heidi's book was so encouraging and helped me to realize that writing different ways is a good thing.
That advice flowed over into my drawing and allowed me to draw both a silly crab or pig and pretty flowers and not feel limited by thinking that I should only have one distinct "Gina K. style." Heidi has been a great influence on me and has helped me grow immensely as an artist.
Another woman who I was thrilled to finally meet in person was Ali Edwards.
I bumped into Ali at the hotel and had a chance to thank her personally for her help when we launched the Autism stamp set.
Ali Edwards has been such an inspiration to me in so many ways. Of course, there are no words to describe this woman's talent. Maybe "jaw-dropping" would work.
But one of things that drew me to Ali was her drive to make a difference.When I started my stamp company, my goal was to create stamps that would help make a difference to those in need. I wasn't sure how but I knew that somehow, it would come to pass. When Erika Martin approached me with the idea of drawing stamps to raise money for Autism, I began my search to learn more. That search brought me to Ali's blog where she was raising thousands of dollars for Autism Speaks.
I was so impressed with the way this woman was using her talents to help so I contacted Ali and she was so sweet and kind. She was so interested in what I was doing and then she directed people through one of her blog posts to my site to help build sales. In such a short time we were able to send a huge check to Autism Speaks and it was truly the birth of Stamps for a Cause.
I am so lucky to be able to finally get a chance to thank these women for their inspiration. That was one of the best parts of the CHA for me. (I will post more CHA photos after our new release.)
So guess what tomorrow is?
It's day one of our PREVIEW PARTY!!!! Woo-hoo!!!
Are you ready to be blown away by what our art team has created for you? You have to stop back tomorrow and see sneak peek of a very special stamp set created by Asela Hopkins to launch the celebration!
In the meantime, Who inspires you?
Share a short comment here about who has been your creative inspiration and I will randomly choose a winner who will win a stamp set of there choice. I will announce the winner tomorrow here on my blog. And don't forget- each day during our preview party, you can enter to win the previewed stamp set so stop by daily to enter and see everything that's new!
Have a great Monday!
Hugs,
Gina K.
That is a question impossible to answer in a comment box!!
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There have been many people and things that have inspired me throughout the years, but none on a consistnet basis like my Mom. She raised 4 children on her own while holding down a full time job. She continues to inspire me even though she is 78 years of age as she helps others in many ways. She is encouraging, helpful and at times just "there". There is so much more I could say.
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This is so easy - you inspire me Gina! I love your designs, your charity, and the fact that you are such a sweet heart! I feel like we are old friends and you share so much with me!
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Everyone! The creations are endless and every day I find a new trick/technique and they come from everyone that creates! I love blog hopping and Ohhing and ahhing over creations! The love that goes into someones creations-PRICELESS!
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I would have to say that all the bloggers that I subscribe to really do inspire me and get my juices going. Of course Splitcoast also has so much inspiration on their pages as well. Thanks everyone for inspiring me. Hugs n' Stuff, Lynne
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Picking just one is tricky but I would have to pick Melanie Muenchinger; since not only does she create awesome stamps, makes incredible cards with them but she also enables all the rest of us to create beautiful cards and other paper creations with her stamps.
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Hi Gina! CHA sounds like such fun! I've been inspired by many people. I think Michelle Zindorf would have to be high on my list. She does such beautiful art work. And of course you have been a huge inspiration to me. And all of the women and men of the Yahoo groups I belong to.
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Believe it or not, my Mom is my source of inspiration. She is a spinner, weaver, embroiderer, knitter, quilter and painter. She always something amazing on the go and just loves to share her talent with all kinds of people. She also understands my addiction to paper and glue! LOL! Can't wait to see all the new releases!!!
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What inspires me... ? Hum.... I guess I am mostly inspired by the blogs I read. I know I don't comment on them nearly enough! I am also inspired by the challenges over at Splitcoast.
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I agree with Lydia. There are several bloggers I check out almost daily. Michelle Zindorf's work is stunning. And I love Sharon Johnson's work - they are completely different, but both great. I have learned so much from them and others.
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This is really hard. I would have to credit Splitcoaststampers as a huge inspiration in my journey. I know that is not a "person" but a group of individuals who recognized a need and filled it. They've helped me grow tremendously.
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I'm inspired by my hubby; he's my biggest fan, critic, and friend.
He's also got a pretty good eye for design and regularly checks in on my while I'm creating to see what I'm doing. He never fails to suggest something that invariably makes my project better.
I'm also inspired by the amazing talent to be found all day, every day, on various stamping blogs ... yours among them!
Thanks, Gina!
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I have a friend Cindy who seems to find time for everything, including cleaning and painting her house -- but she does so much more... her dedication to scrapbooking and her creative efforts in the kitchen -- she is inspiration overflowing!
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YOU inspire me, Gina! You were one of the first stamping blogs I found when I started making cards a couple years ago. You have such great tutorials that make anyone feel successful, and I love your energy. I also am inspired by Melissa Phillips for her vintage, shabby look. I love the lace and buttons!
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I have too many to list, but I will list my top 4 Jennifer Muraoka, Jennifer Young, Julie Koerber, and Gina K.! These 4 are the ones that have not only inspired me, but have caused me to improve with each project I create. They have all contributed equally to inspire me! They are wonderfully talented! Thanks for the opportunity! Best, Curt
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Gina, I agree, very tough question! I'm going to go with someone I think will be a surprise -- Kristi Contes of the Effer Dares. Their challenges make one dig a little deeper and I like that.
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There are sooo many people who inspire me! The first person I met "on line" who inspired me and STILL inspires me today is Debbie Olson (Thinking Inking). I keep saying I want to be like her when I grow up. Ü
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WOW how exciting to meet all these wonderful and inspiring stampers. There are so many people in my life that has inspired me through my MANY years. Right now I would have to say all the talented and inspiring stampers out here in blogland. I can't believe all the creative stampers that have jobs, design stamps, make amazing projects, keep up with their blogs daily to share with other stampers, and always think of us stampers and spoil us with chances at sweet candy. You all ROCK! Thanks so much for sharing and for a chance at your sweet candy.
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I guess I would have to say that stamp catalogs inspired me the most way back when there were no blogs around yet. Sadly, I think I do more blog surfing these days than actually creating. When I think of the hundreds of cards I had posted on a site I belonged to way back, most of my inspiration came from my students and those same catalogs, like the Hero Arts catalog. There is nothing like the positive feedback you get on the net to inspire you to make more creations and inspire your readers. I don't have a blog but I have a list of blogs I read every day and yours is pretty much at the top of the list. Thank you for sharing your huge talent with everyone.
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That's a tough one. There are so many talented women out there...I am always in awe when I check my email everyday. I would have to say Nichole Heady is one that inspires me. Leslie Miller is another...her coloring is so amazing.
Charmaine
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I became truly inspired with stamping when I discovered splitcoaststampers.com. From there I've gone on to subscribe to numerous blogs. I get so much inspiration from others who enjoy the same craft I do.
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I was a stamper many years ago and then lost touch with it until a dear friend (Kim) started working in the same department that I worked. It has now been a little over 2 years now, and Kim and I are still stamping away. I get lots of inspiration from Splitcoast, TayloreExpressions, and 11Valerie11 (Valerie Stangle). Have a safe trip heading back home!
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I haven't been inspired by one person but by a group of people. The women of Splitcoast Stampers. I'm fairly new to this site but I'm so glad that I found it. They are a wonderfully talented group of people who give me inspiration everyday. They are really helping me to try new things and giving me encouragement.
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The first blog that I ever read was Ellen Hutson's which inspired me to start stamping! I had gotten to be a lazy stamper but her blog opened me up to a whole new world of crafting which led to more blogs and more inspiration.
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My daughter - she is FEARLESS! From trying new challenges, going to school away from home and now graduate school in England, she shows me that anything is possible. It inspires me to take chances in my life and my creating.
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Such a tough question, Gina! I have some of the same crafting inspirations you do - Ali Edwards, Heidi Swapp, Tim Holtz, and of course, you. In life, though, my biggest inspiration is my mom.
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Like so many have said, we're supposed to answer this in a comment box? Gracious!! HA!
You're first on my list of people who inspire me Gina. Your creations and tutorials are just amazing!
There are many other blogs that I read an puruse but I always come back to this one.
As a side note, non-artistically speaking my son inspires me, he graduated bottom of his class in high school, had NO Idea what he wanted to do when he was finally done, and has just passed his fire 1 & 2 training and state boards, along with his EMT training for our local fire department! I couldn't be more proud! Sorry just had to ooze
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Right now I have a few people who inspire me - my daughter, because I am full of awe for the amazing mother she is (It's so much fun watching her with my granddaughter); my sister-in-law for the wonderful cards she makes (she's my creative inspiration): and my boss - for her incredible grace under fire and commitment to excellence.
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Well, it would be easy to list 20 or 30 stampers/papercrafters who inspire me on a daily basis; but in the end the one woman that inspires me the most is my mother. She worked as a professional seamstress for 50 years and now retired will only sew for my daughter!!! She is the most amazing lady I have ever met and though I don't like to sew (go figure), her attn to detail and care for what she made has always inspired me to do better. Sandra
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What a great question and thanks for the chance to win one of your wonderful sets! I have a ton of wonderful stamping ladies that inspire me, but mostly I think it's my kids. I love a child's perspective on art and how there are no boundaries to what works. It helps me think outside the box!
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I never in a million years considered myself an artist! I always thought being an artist meant having a studio (not a dining room table), owning a gallery (not a huge file folder of work), having tons of intellectual friends (not a gaggle of giggling women) and most of all I thought an artist meant going to art school (not youtub-ing technique videos late at night)! I never considered stamping, scrapbooking or collage an artist's trade until I started reading all of Claudine Hellmuth's stuff! That woman ROCKS!!! And, of course that led to learning about other artists, like Tim Holtz. That's when I began thinking, this thing I'm doing on my dining room table ain't your mama's craft- it's real art!!! I have the tools of an artist, so why can't I call it art? Why can't I call myself an artist? Claudine Hellmuth helped me realize my creative dreams...and that I am an artist in my own right!
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Wow! More great photos.
Who inspires me? That is a long list. At the top are Faith Hofrichter, Michelle Zindorf, Gina K, Melanie Muenchinger and Asela Hopkins, all Dirty Dozen members past and present...Ok, I'll stop.
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First person that has inspired me is my demonstrator Dawn Griffith, then all the blogs she shared on her blog, i.e. Jen Young, Teri in HI, Gina K, Kelly Shadow, Rita Santos.
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Everyone inspires me on some level! But I think I would have to say one of my favorites is Christine MiddleCamp at http://retrospection.typepad.com/
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Who inspires me? That depends on the day - I love to such look through the cards on Splitcoast and see what other people are doing.
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my greatest influence was my Mom..When the art teacher at school sid I wasn't good enough for her class, she said "make her pay". Also one of her favorites was "you can do anything once, if you don't like don't do it again". I still use those mottos....thanks for reading. MaryAnn
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I am inspired by all the different teachers that I take a class from and meet on the internet. This is not limited to just stamping. It includes stitching on linen to needlepoint on canvas, beading, hand and machine quilting, scrap booking and many more that is too long to list here.
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I am inspired by a number of people. The first person is my mom. 14 years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She is now a survivor. It seemed as if she never even gave the cancer a choice. A few years ago when we lost my dad unexpectedly, that strength and renewed determination kept her going. Never a day goes by when I don't look at her and hope to be half the women she is.
The next person to inspire me is my husband. My husband has to be the most amazing and determined man I have ever met. Many years ago we dated, then parted as friends. 7 years ago, we remet, and married. We just celebrated our 6 year anniversary. 6 months before our wedding, I woke up unable to speak coherently, walk without losing my balance or understand what people were saying to me. The doctors were baffeled.
3 days before our wedding one dr. said to my husband, she has ALS- (Lou Gehrigs disease). You need to call off this wedding and move on, she is going to be in a nursing home within 3 years.
My husband looked at the dr. and said, If I have to carry her down the isle...I will, If I have to hold her up...I will, if I have to hold the sign that says "I DO" for her...I will.
Well, the day went off with a few hitches but all and all, I made it.
And today, 6 years and 1 month to the day later, as we are looking for what is still wrong, my husband loves me just as I am. How can a man who does this on a daily basis, never knowing if I am going to be able to walk or talk or understand things each morning not inspire me to keep fighting and looking. How can he not inspire to love like there is no tomorrow, and how can he not inspire me to give of myself, the way he has unselfishly given of himself for the past 6 years????
To me...that is inspiration.
Paula Anne Smith
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Since most of my mojo comes from nature, I would say that the Creator is my main source of inspiration. If I had to choose a "human being" I would pick Mrs. Kibler, my 3rd grade teacher who always praised our art work regardless of how it may have looked to others. Thanks Gina--continue to enjoy Chicago. Darlene L
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So many great stampers inspire me, but one of my favorites is Dawn Griffith... always optomistic, very creative, a sweet lady! How she manages to film so many video tutorials is a wonder!
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I have a list of blogs for people who inspire me! I know I can always get ideas by browsing them. Favorites have to be NicholeH and CambriaT, though. They're just awesome!
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I have been inspired so much from so many bloggers, yourself included. Maria Bell's blog was the very first one I discovered and from that one, found many more. I am sure you have been very excited meeting so many of this talented people, but I am sure they consider it an honor to also meet you, a very talented and inspiring person. I love to read all the reports about the show and new products. I have a niece who's daughter is autistic---going thru teenager years with many hormonal changes---really difficult time. It is because of her, I love to read Ali's blog
Linda Peterson
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I am inspired daily by a wonderful group of blogger including you Gina. You are all amazing and generous with your time and talents.
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Amy Rysavy's blog was the first one I ever found & I felt like I had struck gold
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Julie F.F.-Balzer inspires me to get messy when making a LO and to know that it's OK to have my work look homemade ("mistakes" and all). You can see her work at Balzerdesigns.typepad.com
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There are 2 groups of people who inspire me.
First - women who over come adversities, from abusive relationships & rough childhoods (like myself) who overcome these challenges and go on to be great role models for their children, sisters, etc.
Second - anyone who overcomes any type of addiction. This is also personal for me...
Thanks Gina, as always!
Angie
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Wow-I have so many people who inspire me! The late Catherine Mace (Papers by Catherine) was a wonderful teacher and friend-I miss her everyday! Currently Joan B. of Paperlicious fame and Mrs.C. of Ruby Slippers Blog are true inspirations, not only by how they create but by how they live. Thanks for this opportunity to share!
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My Mom is my the one who has been my creative inspiration. She opened up the world of paper crafts and crafts in general to me. She always helps me see new ways of doing things and, most importantly, she helps me to remember why I do what I do, for the glory of God!
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I have to say that you have met my inspriation - Ali Edwards! She is so laid back and into what she does, how can you NOT be inspired???? Go Ali!
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Gosh that is a tough question to answer. I get inspiration from a ton of different people who all have their own unique style. The first person that did come to mind was Nichole Heady. She always introduces me to innovative ideas that are still easy for me to try out!
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My favorites are loaded with designer's blogs that inspire me. When I walk thru the scrapbook store, a paper or a stamp pops out at me and ideas roll thru my mind. Oh, how I would love to be at CHA! I know you are having a blast.
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I tried to leave a comment once and it never showed up! BOO HOO! You have met my creative hero - Ali Edwards!!! She is laid back and accepting of everything you make/do. How can that NOT be inspiring? Go Ali!!!
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I just want to completely agree with Linda SS. Amy Rysavy's blog was the first I found and subscribed to it immediately. Although I have added lots to my daily list, she's still my favorite. She's my inspiration! The group would of course be splitcoaststampers. I can stay on that website until my eyes get too blurred to see the screen. :o)
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My initial love for crafting in general came from my Grandma! She was always making something and either giving it to family or selling at craft shows. She would always walk to our house- steal my sister and I away for a day of crafting- and return us back again when we were done. My gifts from my grandmother always consisted of either homemade items.. or craft supplies.
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Wowza,what a thought provoking question...I have several inspirations in my personal life, but I'll stick to my artistic inspiration here.
Nicole Heady: her style is right up my alley and her work is gorgeous and she takes the time to show each project step by step on her website. Her artistic skills are killer (:
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Wow, I saw your picture from CHA on several blogs that I read on a daily basis. I get a lot of my inspiration from all the different blogs I read almost daily - elsie f., ali e., donna d., cambria t., melanie m., asesla, and the list goes on and on. I also read a lot of magazines for inspiration as well
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I am inspired by so many SCS gals and all the wonderful blogs out there. Gina, your sincere caring and drive to make the world a better place definitely inspires me. It's not just me or you against the world but what we do that affects the world around us.
Keep on keeping on my friend.
Blessings, Joyce B
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Who inspires me? That's a tough question. Since I started stamping and scrapping a little over a year ago, I have found this community to be so generous with their talent and time. All of the people who post tutorials, sketches, share the recipe for their designs, link their blogs to other talents, or have stopped by my blog to leave a comment have offered me inspiration. It's hard to pick just one so thanks to all!!
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My mom is my inspiration. She has overcome so many obstacles in life and she is so supportive of my dreams and goals.
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It would be very hard to choose any one person who inspires me... I scan many blogs each day as well as SCS. A collaboration of talented stampers has inspired me to go "outside the box" and try new techniques, layouts and color combinations. I appreciate the talent of so many stampin/scrappin artists and say "thank you" to everyone who shares their work.
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OK--not to sound like Eddie Haskell (am I dating myself?????.....), you inspire me Gina! I love to visit your store when I am in the Madison area (coming this Saturday!) and I try to get to your blog almost every day. I would add that all of SCS inspires me too as well as my SU demo, Nancy. I LOVE this hobby, addiction, creative outlet--whatever it is called today. And you helped.
Thanks, Barb
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Gina K....you inspire me! Not only with your artwork, but also with your kind, caring, loving essence! You are top in your field, and yet, you make us "newbies" feel welcome to the stamping arena. Thank you for being you!
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One of the most inspiring professional teachers I've ever met was Valerie Welk from California; her classes and her presence as a Kindergarten Teacher Extra-ordinaire sharing her talents inspired me for years and actually led to my using rubber stamps in the classroom!
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Great pictures Gina!!! I would say that I get inspiration from a lot of people, Debbie Olson is one of my favorites, Nicole Heady, I love her desings. My little daughter isnpires me too!!!
I also get inspiration form magazines, TV, clothes, etc etc etc.
Have a great day
Giovana
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My creative inspiration would have to be Anna Wight (SweetMissDaisy). Her style is so beautiful and I'd love to color as good as her some day! She's also really sweet
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My biggest influence came from my friend Kelly! She is the one that got me into all of this and help me get started stamping. Without her I wouldn't be here commenting!
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My Grandmother was an amazing woman, someone I learned a great deal from.
Claudia
scfranson@charter.net
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There are so many talented women that inspire me that it is hard to name just one, but Michelle Wooderson is definitely on the list. She is so creative, not only in her card making and paper crafting, but everything she does . . . . cooking, decorating, gardening, etc.
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My main creative inspiration is my friend Anne who "got me into" stamping. She is so creative in every aspect of her life.
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How fun!! And what amazing friendships this "little hobby" of stamping can bring us, eh?? As to inspiration.........there is not just one. I'm a fairly new stamper and I feel inspired by all the talent and creativity of the blogs I visit and the challenges and galleries on SCS!! I'm inspired by the beauty of nature around me and by the love and support of my family!
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Well I have a few people that inspire me. I look to my grandmother every day for inspiration which is taking me to find the path to choose a career I am both passionate about and interested in. this road has led me to stamping and creating. My other inspiration is the three ladies I look to as I decide how far I will be taking my stamping. Thos wonderful ladies are Gina, Nichole (paper trey ink) and Em (stamping Bella). you all of built wonderful companies and I dream of one day being among you!
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My grandma and mom have always been my biggest source of inspiration! They are both such amazing, strong, wonderful women! I hope that I can be half as wonderful and make even half the impression on the world that they have!
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Yiles- there are so many....if I had to pick, the first two that come to mind are Kristina Werner and Nicole Heady- love their style and imagination. There are a million more and that is why I have a google reader ..LOL
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So many people have inspired me. Since finding SCS my creativity has taken off. I try to really examine the creations that blow me away to figure out what really catches my eye and that has helped me to expand. I also receive inspiration from my boyfriend. Before I met him all of my creations were very earthy colors. He has challenged me to use brighter colors. That took me out of my comfort zone for a while, but now I love using bright colors. I am also inspired by wonderful caring people as yourself, Gina. The owners of the comapanies represented on SCS are so wonderful and I am happy to be here and witness all of these companies grow. It is a great inspiration to me to continue with this hobby.
I can't wait to see what you have for us in the next release.
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My biggest influences are my crafting buddies over at tallyscrappers... they inspire me and make me wanna be a better crafter!
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I would have to say that my inspiration for great ideas and innovative ways of looking at projects would be Lauren Meader. Her's was the first blog that I really ran across when I started blogging this year. But I do have to say though that after blogging for a while now, there are so many wonderful sites and bloggers that are all inspirational.
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I'm so enjoying seeing your pics from CHA!
I'd have to say that everyone on SCS inspires me....I have learned SO MUCH and been introduced to so many companies/products...like Gina K Designs!!!....I can't imagine not having SCS!
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I am totally inspired by several women - I have very little time, but I still manage to read these blogs almost every day. They include you, of course, Lauren Meader, and Nichole Heady :o) There are others, too, but those are the first that come to mind.
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Wow - what a hard question. I am inspired by so many - you and Nichole Heady are two that immediately come to mind, not just for your creativity but for your business sense as well, and the ability to turn a passion into something you love to do for a living.
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At first I didn't think of anyone and then It hit me. I inspire me. No one knows what I want or need like I do. When down and out depression wise I inspire me to stay there as long as I need or to snap back into reality and do what ever it is I need to do. I always want to fix me and now that I am fixed or happy about the fix I am in I can read to expand my mind, google research for info, google reader and scs to see new creations, listen to tapes to expanded my awareness and enjoy being with me.
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Gina,
You inspire me! I knew very little when I first started stamping, but because of wonderful information from you blog and website I have learned so much.
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What a tough question! There is so much inspiration out there. But after meeting Heidi Swapp at Scrap Etc. this spring, she's my choice. I still mull over a quote from her class..."A year from now, you'll wish you started today!" She is one who is not afraid to go after her dreams in spite of what I would see as obstacles. I treasure her inspiration to "MAKE the dreams" come true.
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YOU inspire me!
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I am inspired by Lisa Bernsen and had the opportunity to meet her a the CK convention in Tulsa. I also am inspired by Ali Edwards.
And Gina you are an inspiration. I have loved everything I have read about your stamps for a cause and other creative things you have done. I am new to your blog but can always get inspired there.
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I have to say my children inspire me everyday. They're never afraid to jump right in and take chances which I think we should all do now & then. They also love to have fun and have so much energy, that it makes me energize too!
Suzanne Dean
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I am inspired by so many different things I see around me in nature, online, in books on tv and sometimes just the random things that pop into my head LOL! Thanks for sharing your CHA pics with us!
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There are so many inspiring blogs...
I really enjoy seeing new Ideas or
techniques that I had not tried...
so much talent..I thank you ALL!
Lauren Meader..Erika Martin..
Asela Hopkins..Nichole Heady are just a few and you too Gina K.
And another inspiration is SCS.
I enjoy all crafting. I have been
stamping off & on for about 5 yrs.
I am now hooked on card making
Thanks for a chance to WIN!!
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Wow what a tough question to answer! I would have to say my family inspires me - my grandmothers in particular. One raised 9 children and somehow still found time to create - I was blessed enough to get one of her pieces when she passed away and when I need a little boost to create I pull it out and it never takes long for ideas to flow. My other grandmother grew up during the war in germany and threw raising her daughter and risking her own life to come to Canada and surviving 50 years of abuse - she still smiles everyday and strives to help those around her - never in my life do I recall her complaining or looking for pitty - she is my greatest source of strength when I need it most.
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Creative inspiration comes from so many places... but my earliest memories are of my mom's creativity. She loved to paint, was a fabulous cake decorator and she did all sorts of crafts.
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There are a lot of stampers out there that have given me creative inpiration including you, but the top three would be Debbie Olson, Lauren Meader, and Melanie M.
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For inspiration of life in general I must say it is my daughter. In 2000 she was in a serious accident which left her paralyzed until surgery.... She was kissed by angels and is now working for a hospice company and schedules nurses who give relief to families of dying patients. When I think of how hard she worked to learn to walk again it makes me smile. I was so lucky that she allowed me to be part of the process. I have not taken anything for granted since and I know how important it is to scrap and record the little things in life. As far as a scrap style I love Elsie Flannigan's whimsical style.
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I am constantly inspired by my friend and pastor's wife! She has been stamping beautiful creations for over 20 years and has amazing talent. She may not be known outside of our community, but her talent is most impressive. She's my hero!
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The people that inspire me are moms! I have two little boys and it can get hecktick at times! so I think moms are awesome for all we/they do
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Lauren Meader is an amazing talented woman & she inspires me everyday! She was the one that gave me the courage to attempt to make the bridal shower cards for my daughters shower. She told me that I COULD do it & to have the courage to think that I could do a great job. I must say that they came out awesome & I have her to thank for that, without her pushing & encouraging words I never would have done it...so thanks Lauren!
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I too am inspired by my husband who has faith in me that I can do more than I ever thought I could, and helps me and gives me the room to do it. God bless.
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Of course you inspire me. It is amazing how many great ideas we are able to obtain from all the great bloggers. There are always new techniques and ideas and that is the fun part of stamping.
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So many of the blogs out there have given me many inspirations for cards and projects, but the person who has inspired me the most is my 13 year old daughter. She's like my little cheerleader, always encouraging me to try new ideas, not just in stamping but also in life.
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I think my biggest source of inspiration has to come from the Lord. He is afterall the one who instilled in my genetic makeup my creative desire. As for bloggers there are so many but 2 of my all time favorites for inspiration are Anna Wight (Sweet Miss Daisy) and Debbie Olson (Thinking Inking). They are both AMAZING stampers and have inspired me in numerous ways.
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For creative inspiration, I look to Melanie Muenchinger and Cambria Turnbow, as well as card and scrapbooking sketches. I also love browsing at splitcoaststampers. There are so many sources of inspiration.
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There are tons of women who inspire me! I will be honest, you inspire me a lot!
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Hmmm, who inspires me, it could be anyone really, it's whoever is with me in that moment that gives me that extra nudge that I need that extra word of encouragement. ~Julie
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My daughter inspires me. I love her way of looking at things. She's take a picture in a way I never thought of and it really has inspired me to look at things differently.
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I am inspired by all the wonderful talent of so many bloggers, but I must admit that my daughter is a constant source of inspiration for me. She is an amazing quilter, decorator, and paper artist. She has an amazing ability to put color together and it just works and often surprises. I am blessed to be able to "play" with her often.
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The fabulous women who take their time to share their beautiful work on SCS galleries and blogs! It's amazing the talent that people have. It's very cool too to see how people have developed their styles and grown as artists. I am inspired by so many people, it's hard to pick one!
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I have to say there are several people that inspire me to do better. I have a huge list of blogs I read daily on my blog. I love coming and seeing what you and Nichole Heady come up with , Julee from Poetic Artistry has jump started my mojo several times as well but someone who I really love to see creations from is Lauren Meader.
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Hi Gina!
Thanks for posting all that cool news (and pics) from CHA! And thanks for offering a chance to win...you are so generous!
Who inspires me? Lynda Benden! When I first saw her blog, I commented that her cards make me go ahhhhhhhh....and they still do
http://stampact.typepad.com/my_weblog/
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Many people have inspired me, but if I had to pick one person who continues to inspire me it would be Dawn Lusk. When I first went to SCS and started 'hanging out' she welcomed me and made me feel like I belonged there. Then, through her fabulous coloring expertise, she has pushed me to improve my weak skills in coloring. She has been supportive when I faced some medical issues with my eyes. She is also responsible for me now being able to photograph my cards with much more clarity. And she remains a very dear friend. So, thanks Dawn.
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Oh wow, I have several blogs that I love to check out each day!! But I would have to say my very favorite, the one that I go to when I just can't seem to get the creative juices flowing would have to be my friend in Hawaii, Jenn Muraoka. (kiyomikrafts.com) She is such an artist. I love the fact that she is not limited to one style, and that she is completely honest with her readers.
It is such a joy to get to know lots of different ladies through their blogs and feel like I can be a part of their lives, even from hundreds of miles away!
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My Mom inspired me. She worked for years to raise 3 children and never complained. So I work hard at everything that I do and it's all because of her. We lost her on May 2, 2008. But I still think of all the things she did and would have done if she was still here. She made me a better person.
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Hi Gina! Im so glad to see thta you had a wonderful time at CHA. I don't have just one person that inspires me. I love the style of Lauren Meader's cards, as well as Melanie Muenchinger's, and Donna Baker. But those are just three of the wonderful people that inspire me... my blogroll is a long one!
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I have only been stamping a few months. I have learned so much by reading blogs of some wonderful ladies. I am unable to choose just one. The thing I have learned most is just have fun and not worry about if my project is perfect.
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There are soooo many women who inspire me I can't just name one or even a few...
but if I have to it would to choose Melissa Frances http://melissafrances.typepad.com/my_weblog/
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Hi Gina--before I get to say who inspires me, I must tell you how adorable you are!!! (now that I said that, I am sure you will NOT choose me. LOL) Anyhow, my husband inspires me every day. He is so thoughtful, ambitious, caring, innovative and just an all around fantastic person. And we have been married almost 40 years and I still feel that way. Thanks for all the posts from CHA. Anxious for your new items.
Cheryl Sims
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Gina,
I have macular degeneratin. I love makingcards, but I am limited by my low vision. On your blog you said don't forget tocolor outside the lines. WELL....I didn't color because Icouldn't stay inside thelines. I am now happilycoloring outside the lines. YOU are my inspiration.
Thanks
Charlene
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One of the first blogs I followed was Ali`s because she is Canadian like me and a fabulour stamper. Her directions are always easy to follow. Another is the great Patty Bennett.
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I get a ton of inspiration from Lauren Meader and Nichole Heady. I love both of their styles for different reasons. Love all of your pics BTW. Can't wait to see your new stuff. -Molly B
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CHA looks like it was sooo much fun! Love seeing all the pictures too. Bye the way, how tall/short are you??! haha! You so little!
I havent been making cards that long, and my sister introduced me to your online store back in Feb or March, then through it I found your blog...then Mel's....Ya'll two were/are my first inspirations. Actually, the stamps that ya'll design is what inspires me too. I can just look at them and get all kinds of ideas! LOL! Now putting them down on a card is my difficult part...getting better though I think.
But I'm like others too, sooo many different things do inspire, whether it be a person or just life itself!
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How fun to meet Heidi and Ali. Ali has been a big source of inspiration to me lately -- also Stacy Julian. In the stamping world, it would have to be Kristina Werner -- love her simple, clean style.
HeatherC
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Melanie definitely inspires me. When I found her as a Stampin Up demonstrator a year ago, my love for card making came back. Her cards and ideas were amazing and simple too. Because of her, I feel like I am now starting to find my style, and that I too can make cards that people actually like.
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It's too difficult to pick one person that inspires me, but I can say that the 1st person on SCS to inspire me was Faith aka markiesmom. Add it was her creations that led me to GinaK & all the wonderful designers & illustrators here. Melanie is a 'think outside the box' kinda creator. I have definitely learned alot from Faith, Melanie & Gina, their work & tutorials inspire me!
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There are two people that inspire me. Sorry can't pick just one. You Gina, and Emily. I love all the tutorials you put up. Makes me actually break the stuff out and try it or purchase it so I can try to be half as good as you.
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It is to hard to pick one person that inspired me first, mostly in the beginning it was SCS that did the most to inspire me. After that it was Beate, Faith (markiesmom)and Melanie.
Thank you for the chance to win. I can't wait until the release tomorrow.
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I have been inspired by so many great stampers on SCS. I couldn't name just one. But I am also truly inspired by the GinaK team. I love your blog, stamps and your online store.
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I would have to say my boy friend and one dpt husband I live a pretty hard life before I meet him I really didst care about myself or anything Its been 3 years now And I still cant believe some one loves me so much.He taught me about god and all the gifts he has for us .he told me to find a hobby I thought me a hobby Im not good at anything 2years went by and we had our son dillon.I went to the store and found a scrapbbok .and made a page with stuff around the house And I relly like it .And everyone else loved it now I found my hobby and my love for card makeing..We dont have lots of money so I go to yard sales for my stuff..but I love what I do now and if it wasnt for him and my son I wouldnt do what I do today But thats Who Inspires Me....
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How fun! Tomorrow is my 8th wedding anniversary. Since our 8 month old son is pretty sick with bad cold, we won't be going anywhere, so I'll be able to check out your new release! Maybe I can talk dh into buying me some for an anniversary gift!
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There are so many fantastic stampers out there that inspire me everyday. I am also so lucky to have such a wonderful family to look to when ever I am in need of a bit of insperation.
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Wow! What a hard question! I find tons of inspiration on so many blogging *greats* out there! Lauren Meader, Nichole Heady, Jen del Muro, Christina Fischer, Laurie Schmidlin...the list could go on and on! :o)
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My boys have so many challenges and they inspire me with their tennacity. I enjoy your work and many of the other great card makers that others have mentioned when it comes to making cards. Thanks for the opportunity to participate!
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I find inspiration from all the wonderful people on Splitcoaststampers who share their work, and would find it impossible to pick just one.
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My boys are the whole reason why I got into this stamping thing in the first place so they were and still are my biggest inspiration. As far as stampers, Heidi Swapp was the first person who I fell in love with. I read her blog every chance I could and learned a lot from her. There are so many stampers out there who inspire me everyday there's no way I could list them all.
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You inspire me, Gina! In fact, all the stampin' industry gals inspire me. Beate, Asela, Jen Balcer, Michelle Zindorf, Keri, Cambria, Julie HRR- the list goes on and on!
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Well, *YOU* inspire me a WHOLE lot!
I love the way you share such fun and awesome project with so much enthusiasm!
There are many others who inspire me--most of them I found at SCS--so I guess I need to say *thanks* to that whole site!
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There are truly so many people who inspire me creatively. Nichole Heady inspires me with her stamp designs, her creations, and the fact that she wants to be so hands on with her company and close to her customers. Taylor Vanbruggen inspires me with her creativity. Gina K. you inspire me with your kindness and the direction you have taken your company. Your tutorials are fabulous too, and I love that you remember what it was like when you first started out!
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Hey Gina, I get imsperastion from blogs, split coast and my kids but lots of time I find myself grabbing CS or BG paper and flying by the seat of my pants LOL Sometimes it works out other times not so much!
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WOW! So many wonderful bloggers!! It opened up a whole world of stamping to me!! Thank you, Gina for all your inspiration!!!
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I've been inspired by everyone who has ever shared their work on SCS or a blog. It doesn't matter if it's a really simple card or a jaw dropping work of art - they are all special, and it's so special that the artist took time out of their life to share their work with us all. I'm yet to see anything I couldn't find an aspect of beauty, talent or ingenuity in, so thanks everyone! Thanks for YOUR inspiration too Gina!
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Hi Gina,
Not to toot my own horn but I have to actually say that I inspire myself. I have been stamping and card-making for about 7 months now and it has really been an enjoyable challenge for me. I have done a lot of cards that have ended up in the garbage and believe me I could have stopped and gave up 6 1/2 months ago. But this is something that is relaxing to me and that I truly love to do. I am determined to get better at this and learn to love every project that I create and design. I motivate myself to learn the tricks and gain creativity by spending countless hours on your website, SCS, and the ton of blogs that I visit on a daily basis. Since I am known to start something and not finish (jewelry-making, glass painting, knitting, sewing)just to name a few, I am proud of myself for not giving up on stamping and being as excited about it today as I was 7 months ago.
Keep up the good work me!!!
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There are lots of great women out there who inspire me, hard to choose from all of them. I would have to say though I get a lot of my inspiration from blogs, from fellow card makers, from Splitcoaststampers site or from Magazines I read.
Hugs,
catherine
www.mystampinggrounds.blogspot.com
catlevy@eastlink.ca
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I would have to say the whole Papertrey Ink team and all the great people on the forum inspire me everyday!
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I find inspiration from so many people that I can't just name one. I am a big blog surfer and love all the many blogger's out there that are willing to share their talents with others. I will say,however, that my friend, Sue, who got me started in stamping, was my first inspiration. She still jokes about how she created a "monster" with me! LOL
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In the world of stamping and card making, I have to say that I am most inspired by Michelle Wooderson, Mish Mash. Her style, kind of homey, country, antique-ish, is really appealing to me!
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Hope you had a great trip home! My fist person to inspire me was my Stampin' Up! teacher , Julie L! I could not believe the beautiful cards that she was able to create. That was way before I knew about Splitcoast and blogs, etc. Lately, I've been inspired a lot by Michelle Zindorf. But, who knows, it changes with the wind!
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Wow Gina...that would have been awesome to thank all those ladies IRL. I am inspired by many wonderful crafters but probably the one who jumps to mind first is Jennifer McGuire. Her style has just always appealed to me and many years into this wonderful hobby it still does. I never tire of looking at her beautiful cards and scrapbook pages and trying out new ideas from them. Cheers!
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Kristina Werner really inspires me - she's fun, she's smart, and she's going somewhere. For me, I think I'm inspired by the fact that she's around my age and she has done so much for herself! Makes me want to keep on, keeping on!
~Kendra
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Everyone at SCS inspires me. I am new to all of this... and love it!All the blogs in my favs (i add more everyday)help me a lot. Thanks Y'all!
Also Lisa Zappa and The Pink Stamper (Robyn)inspire everyday.
Marie H.
ReeRee220@aol.com
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There are just too many to name but one I am inspired by is Beate John's blog and gallery. I love her style.
Jen
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Probably the person that has inspired me the most with stamping is Anna Wight (SweetMissDaisy on splitcoast). She has a wonderful style. And I was thrilled to be able to meet her in person yesterday. *big grin*!
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My Mom! She is the biggest inspiration in my life other that my faith in Jesus! My faith inspires a lot of my stamping, too. Thanks for the chance Gina!!!
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SCS is the first place I went to find inspiration when I first started. Nowadays, I have so many talented artist in my favorites, but my top 5 are Faith Hofrichter, Michelle Zindorf, Gina K, Melanie Muenchinger, and Carolina King.
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If I had to choose just one person, I think it would have to be Lauren Meader, she is such an inspiration to me. I am so inspired by all you gals who blog, sharing your creativity as well as caring for children and a home. WOW.....I don't know how you do it, but THANKS!
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As far as cardmaking is concerned, I am pretty sure I would have stopped card making if it wasn't for everyone SCS. I used to stamp weekly with local friends but one by one they started to lose interest and I am the only one left. If it wasn't for my contacts and the inspiration on SCS I might have also lost interest. Even though I don't meet weekly with my local friends I now have stamper friends 24 x7 all over the globe due to SCS and the many blogs I love to visit. I want to thank all my virtual friends for their inspiration!
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I would say Debbie Olson. You are so cute in these pictures! Are you short or is everyone else just tall?? LOL
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Oh there are so many fun artists out there who truly do inspire me as I read their blogs. If I had to choose just one at this point it would be Wilna Furstenburg. She is a talanted gal with a huge heart and she shares her love for Christ: another great thing about her blog that inspires my heart!
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my friend, jennifer love (from Cuppy Cake), she totally brings out the best in me, and we laugh like crazy together...that's inspiring
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I love all the creativity of the people on splitcoat stampers. They just blow me away. I wish I had more time. Have a ball while you are there
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My BBB Pam (paperaskew.blogspot.com) is my inspiration to be creative! We have been doing stamping classes once a month for a few years now and I love seeing what she comes up with each day! She is now being recognized for her talents and I could not be happier for her! Thanks for a chance to win!!!!
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While I am inspired by so,so many I have found that the ones I return to on a more regular basis for inspiration are, in no particular order, Julee Tilman, Jen Del Muro, and Laurie Schimdlin. They and all of you ROCK!
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I think the person who inspires me would be Lauren Meader. Her work is fabulous and encourages me (and others) to try it. And when I try a new stamp or card, she is the one I pattern it by.
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OMG! Only one? There are so many...you, Gina K, are so inspirational. Nichole Heady with her clean designs. Anna Wight (her photography blows me away). Melanie M. of course, and Lauren Meader. She is uber-talented. I just don't know how she and Melanie crank out so much when they have children and a household to attend to! There are so many more, but I don't want to ramble. Thanks for offering the free set!
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I would say Laurie Schmidlin of Just give me stamps is where I get most of my inspiration, Love her style!!
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My Mom was a fantastic painter, seamstress & all around craftswoman. Even though she has been gone for a long time, she remains my constant inspiration.
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I am constantly inspired by all of the amazing women whose blogs I visit...but my biggest inspiration would have to be my sister, Madonna. She introduced me to stamping only a few months ago and now I'm addicted! She constantly amazes me with her talent and creativity and inspires me to do better all the time. She is truly wonderful.
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Faith, aka Markie's Mom. I love her dots and her sponging technique.
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Well I have many people who have inspired me in the stamping department. You're one person that inspire me to try other things. I love how you even show how to do it. I look at many blogs, many of them are on your blog list. I love Asela's designs too.
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Thanks for letting us get some peeks of CHA! I think the person who inspired me to get into anything artsy is my mother, who always encouraged that spark within. In terms of cardmaking, I happened upon Maria Bell's blog one day while surfing, and was just amazed at this whole community out there... from that point on - I have been inspired by all the wonderful crafters out there - I am always amazed at how much creativity there is!
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Hi Gina -
You are very close to where I live - but no invite for me!!
Debbie is my true artistic inspiration - I think her art is just breathtaking. Sorry for the rambling!!
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I would have to say my grandmothers inspire me. Raising their families during the Great Depression they still managed to creatively make things with the supplies on hand.
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Lauren Meader inspires me every time I visit her blog. She's gone through so much and the attitude she has to keep creating and pressing on helps me realize if she can build creativity into her day, so can I. Can't wait to see what you reveal!
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If I could choose 1 person who has inspired me the most, it would have to be my mother. Without her, I don't think I would have the love for being creative like I do. She taught me to do crafts at a very young age, and because of her, there isn't any craft that I can't do!
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Wow! What an impossible task to name one person. Can't do it. I am inspired by the blogs of so many, yours included. Whenever I need a pick me up, I can always turn to the stamping blogging world. What an amazing community of people.
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I really can't name one person. I take creative inspiration from several (hundreds actually) different people who post on SCS. If it weren't for that site, I probably would have given up stamping long ago because I am creatively challenged!
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There are so many from SCS that inspire me, but the one that really sticks in my mind, and whom I learn from on a daily basis, is Michelle Zindorf. Her work is truly inspirational, and I need all the inspiration I can get!
Lauri
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Splitcoast stampers and their blogs inspire me. I could never name just one person. Gina, you inspired me to get the new pencils and try them with Gamsol!
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I am constantly inspired by many SCS members and many of the members of your design team , way too many to name, and you inspire me as well .
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I am always inspired by the fabulous ladies who create so many beautiful thing on SCS
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There are many SCS members who inspire me as well as many of your design team members , and you are a huge inspiration as well !
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WOW! What fun you had, that's great. I am inspired by so many different people. I guess it depends on what aspect of my life to who I look to for inspiration. Certainly in the Stamping Field it would have to be you, Nichole Heady, The Stampingbella herself, Shelli Gardner, just to name a few. In my personal life it would have to be my Mom and Sister. I can't imagine not having them in my life. My son inspires me to loosen up and have fun as he is such a character. My husband inspires me by his strength and love. So I would say that's a pretty good start. Can't wait for the sneek peeks!!
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My mom inspires me! She basically raised 6 kids all alone even though my mother and father were still married and he still lived there, he contributed little to our lives and eventually left and remarried. My mom has worked 7 days a week for the past 30 something odd years and only called in once. She survived my alcoholic father and is now going through the same thing with my 44 year old brother. I don't know how she keeps going and remains so strong. She is always there for us no matter what and I love her with all of my heart and thank her for teaching me to be a good person, a hard worker, self reliant and so much more. I don't know many people that have been through a much as she has and persevered nor anyone that has as much ambition.
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In relation to stamping there are so many but my number one fave is Lauren Meader at http://laurenm.blogs.splitcoaststampers.com/ Lauren style and sense of fun helps me feel the need to create myself. Also I love her blog and how she shares how she balances her family with finding time for herself as well. Lauren's blog is my fave spot. I have oodles of others that are daily must look but I tend to save Lauren's for the end like eating the favourite part of your meal at the end so that it's the last thing you remember.
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Beate really ROCKS!! I also love you, Mel & Nicole Heady.
It's a good life!
Terri E.
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Nichole Heady!! i dont know where i came upon her blog, but i saw what she can do and i was like i can do this too, and ever since ive been hooked on stamping!
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My own mother has always been my creative inspiration. She has so much talent in many different areas. She's always been very crafty and has had many different hobbies...She's always been a huge inspiration.
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There are so many wonderful creative ladies in the stamping/crafting world. One of my faves is Mel from http://melstampz.blogspot.com/ her blog is so full of step-by-step tutorials, she's just amazing (and I would just love it if she were able to work with you sometime!). I've never met her, but have chatted with her on SCS and she's sooo sweet too.
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I am inspired by my friend Mel. First of all, she is the person who introduced me to stamping. For that, I owe her my life! But, she also is a busy mom, a fantastic cook, a stellar wife, a true hearted friend,and one of the most talented women I have ever met. And humble, too. She would never recognize herself here. But, she rocks!
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My neices, Lauren and Ayden, inspire me. I love them so, and since I don't have kids just yet, I feel like they're mine! Oh, and of course all those crafty blogger card-making ladies in my Google Reader!
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I am inspired by Michelle Zindorf's many gorgeous tutorials. She is so talented and shares so much. But, throughout my life, I have always been inspired by my 88 year old mother who was always crafty, and learned to make cards after she was 80. To this day she still makes and sends many cards and still makes baby afghans for every new great and great-great grandchild she has.
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Wow! What a tough question.
I can't say there is only one person...I am inspired by all the talented rubber stamp and card designers out there, but, if I had to choose, I'd say Mother Nature! I truly love the colors of nature...the blue, blue sky, the lush green trees and grasses, the gorgeous flowers, etc.!
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There's just no way I could pick one person who inspires me. My family for sure. I love it when my 14 yr old son says "cool card Mom!" I truly think I've taken away something from every blog I've ever been to.
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There are many that inspire, but I'll stick close to home for this one. My upline, Sarah Pendergrast, (www.sarahiscrafty.com) is a constant inspiration with her fresh ideas, techniques, tutorials and layouts. Her continuous designs amaze me. And I'm so happy that we've become friends.
And you inspired me to buy the koh-i-nor pencils. Thanks so much for all YOU do and your generosity!
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Gina K.,
I have been a fan of Asela's since I first started surfing crafting blogs two years ago. In addition to her creative style, I love the positive messages she shares. I remember one specific message she had for her readers about using what we have and practicing to improve our skills before we spend a lot of money on the latest tools. I appreciate her logic, along with her creativity!
Take care and STAY POSITIVE!
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There are a few blogs that I check daily - yours, Nichole Heady's, and Kim Hughes'. I am inspired to try new techniques, yummy color combos, and have fun! Oh, and buy more stamps, paper, ink, etc
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I love getting all kinds of different ideas from everyone! I will have to say though that my all time favorite blog to go to is Dawn Griffith's site Dawns Stamping Thoughts! She is such a talented lady and gives GREAT FREE TUTORIALS!!! I highly recommend going to her site if you haven't been there! Thanks for the chance to win a stamp set! ~Shannon~
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So many things have been my inspiration, but usually it seems to come back to being my kids. They always say the right things when they see what I've accomplished.
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My Dad, an architect and artist, is my creative inspiration. Ever since I was little he has always encouraged my creative expression. I like to think I have some of his artistic talent too! Can't wait to see all of the new goodies you have in store!
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My mother inspired me in many ways including with her creativity. She had a craft store in the 50's and came up with all of her own designs. She created wonderful dolls and stuffed animals, she designed clothing, she hand-painted ties, she decorated cakes, arranged flowers, did snow sculpture and even painted picture windows. She was an artist at heart having done numerous paintings and sketches. She had no internet nor community of artists with like interests. She was self-taught and held a true appreciation of the "Old Masters". She taught me to try anything and to use my God-given gifts to share with others. She had a strong faith and true love for family, friends and all of mankind. I miss her very much, but know that she will always be a strong influence in my life.
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I am mostly inspired by my friend, Mary, who introduced me to papercrafting. She has a very nice style and an amazing eye for combining patterns (either paper or ribbon). Also she can totally cut straight lines! I wish I could do that!!
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I would have to say the person who inspired me the most creatively was my mom. When I was little she made my clothes. I grew up and wanted to learn to sew also. From there I branched off to embroidery, then cross stitching, then quilting, then stamping. And to think it all began with sewing.
Robbie
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I would have to say the person who inspired me creatively was my mom. When I was little she used to make my clothes. So I grew up and wanted to learn how to sew. From there I learned how to embroider, moved on to cross stitching, quilting, and then to stamping. Wow what a journey!
Robbie
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Such an interesting question! There are many who inspire me - but I'd say my main inspiration is Asela Hopkins! I accidentally discovered her blog when I didn't even know what blogging was. I love her style and talent, and I study her watercoloring tutorials! There are so many others as well, but if I hadn't happened across Asela's blog when I did, who knows? Thanks for the opportunity, Gina!
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Wow! Who inspires me? Well, really so many crafters. I know that is a cop-out, but I have so many blogs (well, only 100) in my Google Reader that inspire me daily. Hmmmm, my top three right now:
Michelle Zindorf
Faith Hofrichter
Amy Sheffer
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There are so many blogs I love to look at for inspiration. Right now, I would say that Michelle Zindorff's site is a favorite. I love they way she shows step-by-step how to do a project. So many great ideas I would have never thought of.
DeniseB
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I haven't been stamping long, but I am inspired daily by what I see at splitcoast and all the blogs I visit. I am just blown away by the talent I see!
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There are so many people that inspire me creatively. One of my favorites is my seven year old daughter! She is so creative and always has a great color combination or idea to work with! I tell her that I am jealous that she is so much more creative than me!
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Where oh where to start!? I have to say the first blog I visited was Thinking Inking. Debbie Olson, my all time fave. I adore her work, and her personality is amazing. I like Gina K. , too!
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I too have a long list of people who inspire me creatively. Asela Hopkins' blog was one of the first I signed on too, and still check whenever she posts. Also Jeanne Streiff, Leslie Miller, Dawn Lusk, and Michelle Zindorf.
Thanks for the chance to win!
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Donna Downey, Ali Edwards and Tim Holtz are just 3 of many who inspire me
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I am inspired by my best friend Wendy. I love her style.
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I love Heidi, Ali and so many others! In the stamping world.. you definitely inspire me! Thanks for being so giving!
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I am a companion to the elderly. I have a client in an assistant living facility. She exercises twice a week in the pool at the age of 85. She smiles all the time. She keeps me laughing. One of the activities they enjoy iswhen a Stampin'Up demonstrator comes and does stamping activities with them twice a month.
This client of mine, she just loves to stamp. she uses the cards she makes to send to her grandchildren. We do it together on the day the lady comes.
That is how I got interested in stamping. Only about 2 months ago now. Now I'm hooked and want to learn more and more. I enjoy your site Gina. So much to learn.
JOY
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I, like so many others, cannot pick just one who has inspired me. It's the hundreds of wonderful people on SCS that have inspired me. I can't believe how much I enjoy cardmaking and that there are so many others that do as well. The inspiration never seems to stop. You never know where clicking on a link will take you. A long time ago, a link too me to your blog and you became one of my first "have to go to everyday" blogs - and you still are! Thank you!
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There are so many that inspire me on a daily basis!!! But I would have to say that my sister-in-law, Gaylyn is one of the ones that inspires me the most!! She is the one that got me back into stamping! She is so talented! Thanks!!
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Right now I am inspired by several blogs that I visit, but by far my favorite is Emily Giovanni. I seem to really like every one of her designs and it makes me want to recreate them myself.
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Just everyday life inspires me. I always try to learn at least one thing from each new person that I meet.
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looks like you are having fun and meeting lots of great people Inspiration comes from not one person but a group I belong to a couple of great online groups (small) and we have been together for close to 10 years with a few new ones coming along every so often
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The person who inspires me the most is my older sister. We lost our mother when she was six and I was only 6 1/2 mos. She was like a mother to me. She made it through physical & mental abuse from our 1st stepmother, the loss of her first husband when her children were 2 and 3, along with a complete breakdown at that time. She has had many health problems in the last 5 yrs. and is currently fighting colon & liver cancer. And she just lost her oldest daughter (47 yrs. old) unexpectedly on July 5th. She has a strong believe in God and just keeps going and going like the Energizer Bunny. She has always been there for me and I look up to her with the greatest admiration!
Thank you,
Linda Cichowski
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I would say my inspiration comes from two sources- my parents and men and women from the Bible. To draw lessons and gain wisdom from their challenges and how they responded gives me the strength and wisdom to do the same.
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It is hard to just come up with just one person who inspires me as there are so many. One friend inparticular seems to always be there even if it is on the end of the telephone. The last four years have been really difficult with my dear husband having a mental breakdown and being apart for a year as he was in the UK I was in the states because of immagration, and she was such a precious "shoulder" to lean on. Her name is Beth Fisher and a dear dear sweet friend.
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Who inspires me? From a stamping perspective - I am inspired by Lauren Meader, Nichole Heady, the GK DT oh and tons of great stampers on SCS.
On a more personal level, I am inspired by my parents. They both worked hard - one outside the home and one inside to provide their family with the best they could give - family vacations, day trips to nearby lakes for picnics and by spending time talking to us. I hope that I am following in their footsteps in being an inspiration to my children.
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I have been inspired by so many wonderful people including yourself but I really love the styles of Anna Wight and Julia Stainton.
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My mom has been a huge source of inspiration to me. She was an immensely creative woman worked in fabric, paint and photography. She worked hard to find her own voice in her work and when working on something for someone else, would put much thought into personalizing the gift to the individual, by color or texture or style. That essence translates well accross all mediums and I try hard to follow her example. Thanks for offering the great prize.
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The women in my family inspire me. Each brings something special to my life. Thanks...
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wow! there are so many creative genuises out there that inspire me but if I HAVE to pick one I guess it is Nichole Heady. I love her simple and elegant style and it is one that I should try to follow more often I suppose. I also like that she is so diverse in the type of crafts that she does- sews, cooks, designs stamps and creates with those stamps.
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I would have to say that it's a tie between Melanie and Nicole.. I adore those too cute animals that Melanie designs and I love Papertrey.. There's so much talent between those two ladies that they shine like the sun.
Michelle
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I have a lot of blogs that I check daily - but my source of craft inspiration is from my mom. She ALWAYS had a craft going when I was growing up. Sewing, tatting, crocheting, paper crafts - ANYTHING you want, she can do! I really look up to my mom for that - she raised 3 kids and was at home doing stuff with us all the time!
She also pushed me to try everything and do what I loved! Photography, paper crafts and scrapbooking became my love first - stamping is an added bonus for me now!
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My mother has always inspired me. Her handwriting is beautiful, her eye for design is intuitive, her style is timeless. But, I have to admit, when it comes to crafting, anytime I see something on your blog, I immediately want to be able to do something similar, so I do get a lot of inspiration from you, GinaK!
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I try to take inspiration from many sources, so as not to limit myself. If I had to choose a couple of people who inspire me, I would say Sharon Johnson of No Time to Stamp? and Kristina Werner. I like their elegant and clean and simple styles, respectively!
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Gina - don't you realize you are as inspiring to us as Ali and Heidi are to you?
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I had to sleep on this. I am inspired by many people, however, I think I am most grateful for the inspiration my children offer. They inspire me to see the world through rose-tinted glasses and spend more time dwelling on hopes and dreams. They also inspire me to spend each day living, rather than waiting for life to happen to me. I am certainly a richer person for knowing them!
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