A new family member - the "Cricut"

Kyle and I have been experimenting with an electronic device called the Cricut (pronounced just like the insect  - cricket).  It is an electronic die cutting machine.  I was rewarded with some school money and bought this machine, tools, carrying case and cartridges  - hoping that everyone could use it making die-cut images for bulletin boards and such... teacher stuff!  It's somewhat complicated though... we're learning - the instructions say: "Just play with it - give yourself a hour the first time and just play..."  So - we are!  

Tonight, I got a phone call from a friend, upon hanging up, realized that I had forgotten her birthday.  She has plans to come up to school tomorrow during lunch - I'm going to go get a cake during my conference and we'll sing and surprise her then (for you CHS teachers - SH's b-day was the 17th... sign the card tomorrow & be there to eat cake at lunch!)  Anyways... we put the ole' cricut to use for a mission - making a birthday card.  It's the first one - using this technique!  Also is a pic of other projects that we're working on... I'm trying to make something for everyone who will use this machine... showcasing the techniques in making a name plaque or book marker or misc... it'll probably take me until Christmas to complete this mission - Christmas '09 unless I hurry!  If you have any hints, advice or suggestions using the cricut -

 PLEASE SHARE!  KV and I are planning to take a class - when?  Who knows when time will allow...  TGIF- tomorrow!  Hope you had a great day - did you hug the ones you love?  You better!  Thanks for stopping by!