A Birthday card ....

.... for this week's challenge at Colour Q - cQc87 and for a new challenge (don't know how I missed the start of this one) at The Ribbon Reel - they are already on challenge #3 which is a sketch.

No, this is not my birthday card, it's a card for one of my best friends - Kathy.  Kathy celebrates her birthday on Saturday - and she'll have this card in her hand by then.   I think the colours this week are so bright and cheerful - perfect for a birthday card - and the layout sketch from The Ribbon Reel is just fab.  However, I have taken the liberty of turning the sketch on it's side.  I hope that's okay!  Here's my card.

Stamps:  Waltzingmouse - Say It With Style, Rescue Remedies
Inks:  Stampin' Up! - More Mustard (Crushed Curry), Pumpkin Pie, Melon Mambo, Soft Suede
Spellbinders:  Labels 4 (S4-190) die # 5 & 6; Labels 4 Sm (S4-309) die #6
Accessories:  Card and gems from stash;  Stampin' Up! card - Melon Mambo, Pumpkin Pie, and a bit of SU ribbon that was a gift

I've gone for a clean and simple design that allows the birthday sentiment to stand proud on the card.  I do hope that Claire doesn't mind me playing about a bit with her stamp designs.  I made this topper by using several masks and stamping each colour in turn - all have been clear embossed.  I'm really pleased how well it turned out.

 And on the inside of Kath's card I've put one of the "proper" stamps - for a special friend!!

As you may know from posts and comments earlier this week - it's my birthday today - I've had lots of cards, and I'll take some photos to share them with you later.  Our postman doesn't get to the house until mid-afternoon, so check back then.  In the meantime, I'm off to have some more crafting time with Buffy and also spend some time with the children.  See you later!!