As swiftly as June moved into July, the notorious summer heat and humidity officially arrived here in Lawrence…a perfect excuse to spend time creating inside! Using the beautiful and colorful “Sunkissed” collection, I highlighted our sweet Aspen turning 10. Our beloved maltipoo has been with us since she was just a 2 lb., 1-month-old pup and we adore her!

I began by using 3 different patterned papers (all from the ledger 6x9 paper pack) and cardstock to die-cut puppy paws. Then I hand-stitched each one to add some dimension. I die-cut lots of hearts, using cardstock, more of the ledger 6x9 papers, and the packaging backer papers that hold the die-cut packs (such a great bonus having usable packing elements!!).

Next, I chose the Sunburst 12x12 paper as my main background, trimming, edge distressing, and adhering it to a piece of black 12x12 cardstock. Positioning the 4x6 double photo of Aspen offset from center, I placed the paws, hearts, and miscellaneous elements around the photo, adding labels and small alpha stickers from the collection to spell out “Happy Birthday Aspen” and aligned the journaling at the bottom with a small strip of stitched stickers to anchor. I did go outside of “Sunkissed” because I was searching for just the right elements to complete the page and ultimately used a definition sticker and strip of hearts from the “Love Is Kind” collection.

I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Pretty Little Studio and hope that you have found a bit of inspiration. Thank you so much for your encouragement and for the privilege of designing the past 2 months.