First, I have a quick and easy card to share today.  I let the designer paper take the focus here, and just added a strip of ribbon to anchor the sentiment panel.  And as simple as that, I had a birthday card for my Operation Write Home stash.

Supplies:
Stamps: Warmest Regards (Stampin’ Up)
Cardstock: Soft Sky, Wild Wasabi, Whisper White (SU); designer paper from Kioshi 6″ x 6″ paper pad (Basic Grey)
Ink: Wild Wasabi (SU)
Other: Wild Wasabi ribbon (SU); petite oval and petite scalloped oval Nestabilities dies (Spellbinders)

Now, for the fun and exciting news!  It’s time to strengthen your mouse-clicking fingers and get your creative spirit revved up!  Two fun days of crafting goodness will get into gear tomorrow.

First, there’s going to be a fabulous Summer/Fourth of July blog hop starting at 8:00 a.m. eastern time Saturday, July 2.  Approximately 30 crafters from around the globe will be sharing their creations highlighting summertime and/or Independence Day.  Prizes will be awarded randomly to people who comment on the participating blogs by 6:00 pm eastern time Tuesday, July 5.  I’ll be honest – I’m somewhat intimidated to be in this one because a lot of the other participants are extremely talented, published cardmakers.  But I know it’s going to be fun!  I hope you’ll join me in visiting the other blogs.

Secondly, the Operation Write Home Stars & Stamps Blog is hosting a Virtual Cardmaking Party this weekend!  On Saturday, July 2 and Sunday, July 3, a different cardmaking challenge will be posted every two hours from 8:00 a.m. eastern time until 10:00 p.m., for a total of 16 challenges over the course of the weekend!  Each person hosting a challenge will have an InLinkz tool on their blog, so you can link up what you make for each challenge and have a chance to win prizes!  I’m excited to be hosting the 8:00 a.m. Sunday challenge!  I hope you’ll join me in creating some cards for Operation Write Home to give support to the men and women who serve to protect our country.