I love this bird from the Always set.  It caught my eye the first time I saw it.  The other images in the set complement it well, and are especially useful when you need to give some texture or design to a solid piece of cardstock.

Plant your feet firmly and let your heart have wings

• Soft Suede, Bermuda Bay, Old Olive and Naturals Ivory cardstock; Retired Designer Series Paper
• Always and Hope Happens stamp sets
• Soft Suede and Bermuda Bay Classic Stamp pads
• Embossing powder and heat tool

Over the years, I’ve learned to be more critical when I select a set for myself.  If it’s for me, of course I have to love the images, but I also look for versatility.  I’ve bought my share of “one hit wonders” and to be honest, I begrudge the room they occupy in my little bitty stamping space (known to the rest of the family as the laundry room…sigh).  As my style develops, I have to watch that I don’t select the same thing again and again- natural images like birds, flowers, and trees.  Sure, I have some holiday stamps, and a few that would work as baby or wedding items in a pinch, but maybe it’s time to branch out to something new.  Ha.  Maybe I’ll get Season of Friendship.  I’ve been looking at that tree for the longest time.