We called my grandfather, Papa. He moved from Italy to the U.S and worked as a laborer for a sewer company. His co-workers lovingly called him “chicken Tony” because my grandmother, Nana, would fry him a small half chicken for his lunch box every day.  He served in World War I and World War II. He received a commemorative gold medal on the 50th Anniversary of World War I for his service.

He loved coming home from work and tending his massive garden. There wasn’t a weed to be found! The things I remember most about him were his soft voice, gentle demeanor and his homemade wine! Papa dug his own wine cellar in our basement, digging out dirt, one bucket at a time. My grandparents would drive to meet the train where the grapes were being brought in from California.

Growing up in an Italian household wine was as common as a gallon of milk. If you’re wondering whether we drank it as kids the answer is no. My mom was very strict about alcohol.  We were, however, allowed a tiny sip at Christmas and Easter during a family toast. Honestly, I never liked it but all the adults raved about the flavor. But I did loved the smell of the fermenting wine! The wine press my grandfather used was made from a hollowed whiskey barrel and looked incredibly rudimentary.  Despite fancy equipment, I’m told his wine was among the best people have ever tasted.  Rumor has it that he also made wine the “old fashioned way” – by stomping on the grapes.  I’ve never been able to validate that but it sure makes for a great story, doesn’t it?

That brings us to today’s card.  I used the Half Full stamp set and created this card with my Papa in mind.  You’ll find pictures, cutting dimensions and supplies listed below. All the supplies can be purchased in my online store.  Be sure to check out my ordering REWARDS, too.

Crumb Cake cardstock base is cut 5 1/2″ x 8 1/2″.

Crumb Cake cardstock layer is cut 3 1/4″ x 5 1/2″.

Fresh Fig cardstock layer is cut 3 1/2″ x 5 1/2″.

I used two 10″ strands of Burlap Ribbon and 10″ of Fresh Fig 1/8″ Sheer Ribbon to make the loop.

Wood Textures Designer Paper was used as the base of the tag.  Don’t miss the video tip on how to create the tag top.  No fussy cutting necessary!

This card was included in the Simon Says Stamp Challenge – Anything Goes

Blend Like a Pro!

Create images that look professionally colored with the new Stampin’ Blends. These alcohol-based markers are double-sided allowing you to choose the brush or fine-point tip.  Each color has a light and dark shade and are available individually or as a combo pack. The separate Color Lifter will allow you to reduce ink coverage to create even deeper shading. There are also Ivory and Bronze markers which are perfect for skin tones!

Half Full Clear-Mount Stamp Set – 144999

Basic Black Archival Stampin’ Pad – 140931

Crumb Cake Classic Stampin’ Pad – 126975

Fresh Fig Classic Stampin’ Pad – 144082

Old Olive Classic Stampin’ Pad – 126953

Crumb Cake 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 120953

Fresh Fig 8-1/2″ X 11″ Cardstock – 144242

Wood Textures Designer Series Paper Stack – 144177

Scalloped Tag Topper Punch – 133324

Big Shot – 143263

Pinewood Planks Dynamic Textured Impressions Embossing Folder – 143708

Blender Pens – 102845

5/8″ (1.6 Cm) Burlap Ribbon – 141487

Fresh Fig 1/8″ Sheer Ribbon – 144174

Stamping Sponges – 141337

Stampin’ Dimensionals – 104430

Supply List