memoryart

Sorry, but I'm busy washing my hair....

2012-01-02T22:04:00.000+11:00

After many years of tears, hair washes at our house have finally settled down. Thank goodness!

It's actually quite a pleasure now. Happy kids, happy to dunk their own heads in the water. Lying back pretending to be mermaids - except for the very grown up mer-dude of course. He no longer allows a camera into the bathroom. Very manly, except that he screams like a girl when I try LOL.

It's when I get to spend one on one time with each of my lovelies. Personal time. Time for a quiet chat. Time to just sit and have a yack about whatever they want.

Usually we are joined by the cat who has always loved to watch bathtime. Now we are also joined by the puppy so it gets quite cozy in the bathroom.

We smell the shampoo and conditioner and try to guess what's in them. We observe their 'nanna' fingers and toes from being in too long. We giggle at the puppy trying to climb in the bath. We shoo her and the cat out so there's room for a wriggly body to jump out and wrap up in a towel.

It's the only bathtime that I get to help. They're all quite independent now. They pretty much fend for themselves. All too soon for this mama.

Soon they'll be washing their own hair. Hopefully they'll still let me sit on the little stool next to the bath and chat while they do it.

Making a splash into the new year...

2012-01-01T21:12:00.000+11:00

Wonderful first day of the year. Napping, eating, splashing.

Here's to 2012...may she be kind to you and yours xxxx

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2011-11-30T22:42:00.000+11:00

and....'the closer to Christmas the gooder I get'!!! (not that I've been bad, if you're listening Santa!)

November has been one I'm glad to put behind me. If there's a word for beyond hectic that's what I'd use to describe it and I'm not coming away from it unscathed. Roll on December and good times! To celebrate the arrival of December, I've got lots of Christmassy goodies to share with you in the next week or so.

Check out this WOW chipboard title. Sometimes the hardest thing to pull a page together is the title. WOW has many to choose from to help you out. They're easy to decorate. This one I've just coloured in with a green texta. Easy peasy!

If you're looking for more Christmas inspiration head on over the the WOW Blog! The design team have been scrapping up a Christmassy storm to share with you.

And here??.....well, there's more to come, so stay tuned!!!

That darn peacock!

2011-10-03T16:22:00.000+11:00

I was very lucky to receive this peacock to work with from Suzanne over at WOW chipboard, but what to do with it? I loved the peacock so much I wanted it to be used on a very special layout. I also loved it so much, that it gave me creative block!

I wandered around the shops, trying to find peacock feathers to buy to use with it. Found some but they looked so chewed up I didn't bother. I should add that I absolutely hate birds and feathers, if one touches me I freak out so this, for me, was a brave thing to do.

I googled 'peacocks' to check out their colours and patterns. Still no inspiration.....even though I'm quite the peacock expert now.

While at the Little Scrapbook Shop retreat, I was lucky enough to sit next to Lucy and Evelyn. They were full of ideas and gave me the inspiration to work magic with the peacock. Evelyn suggested the use of flowers for feathers, Lucy gave me ideas for a layout. Even though I didn't finish a layout with it on that weekend, I took 'Evelyn's peacock' home and pondered on the layout for weeks.....yes, weeks!

This weekend, I took a mental health day to scrap. Chaos went on around me and I just sat and looked at that darn peacock and just played and played and played with it. I used a totally different layout idea I first had and went with it. I added lots of bits of ephemera. Some Tattered Inspirations, some stuff I have received in Scrap Girls kits and some old, old stuff that I've had for a very long time.

I love that darn peacock....and all of the inspiration surrounding it. This is a layout I will never forget.....for good reasons.

SamWow strikes again!

2011-08-30T22:38:00.000+10:00

It was my turn on the Words or Whatever WOW blog this week. If you'd like to know how to add this flowery banner to your pages follow the link and pop on over the blog for a blow by blow description.

I love this photo of my cousins and I. It was taken at a family reunion about five years ago now. We all grew up together, playing and having fun. Makes me happy in my heart to see this photo of us all grown up. I haven't added journalling yet, I'm slowly writing it. I want my feelings about it to show to future generations who (hopefully) will read it. I love these girls xxx

He's still cute

2011-08-18T09:10:00.001+10:00

I can't remember the reason for this photo. I think it was a scrapbooking mama set-up for a Christmas layout. That was back in the day when he would be happy to have his photo taken. Now he hides behind his long, long fringe with a grimace. Occassionally I'll get lucky. He'll be happy to pose for one or two happy shots. Very, very occassionally.

I think my mission for today will be to recreate this cute pic with an older boy.....bribery will work, I'm sure....hah! Who am I kidding!!!!

I've used some cool Words or Whatever 12x12 Cog Frame kit for this layout. Two different shades of brown ink and some crackle glue to make it look rusty. Great boy chippie!!!

Tea for two

2011-08-16T15:49:00.000+10:00

Having a cup of tea with the in-laws was always a formal occasion. Cups and saucers, teapot, sugar bowl & milk jug. Tea made by Grandad in his own special way. When I first visited I thought I'd landed in an alien nation. Used to any old mug, a tea bag and milk straight out of the carton! Then, after a while, I realised that it was their special ritual. She did everything for him, but this was his 'thing' that he did especially for his love. This was a cup of love x

I've used Words or Whatever's gorgeous intricate clock.....and intricate it is! So fine and delicate. I'm always amazed at the detail in their chipboard pieces. To prettify it, I've inked in two different colours. Adds a special touch to a special layout.

Thank you Mum

2011-08-12T07:55:00.000+10:00

With three out of the last four weekends in Sydney, we've been visiting Nanna quite a bit. We know she misses us and we miss her too.

It's so lovely to go home. From Coco Pops for breakfast (a rare treat) to having someone make a cuppa for you, the kids are spoilt and we are too. For that, we are grateful.

In this layout, I've inked the WOW chipboard flourish with gold ink. I've then added some jewels to bling it up even further. A very easy technique with a lot of impact.

If you're looking for something to pop your layout....go over to WOW Words or Whatever and have a look. You'll definitely find something to suit your page. They have the largest range of chipboard in Australia....there's over 2,000 items to choose from! If there's something you like, ask your local store to stock it for you.

She certainly is!!!

2011-08-01T17:59:00.000+10:00

One of a kind, that is. For example, I give you today's car conversation.

Miss 4: "Mummy, how did the baby get out of you at the hospital?"
Me: "Well, the doctor took it out."
Miss 4: "Yes, but how did he get it out?"
Me: "Well, (what the hell do I say now?) it comes out of your bottom."
"WHAT THE HECK!"....(then after a while)..."actually, that's quite disgusting." then goes back to looking out of the window.

This comes after yesterday's car convo when we spotted a car for sale at the side of the road....

Miss 4: "What happens to your car when you die?"
Me: "well I suppose someone will look after it for you. You won't have to worry about it."
Miss 4: "Well I'm never gonna die"
Me: "That's good."
Miss 4: "Yep....I'm just gonna keep breathing in and breathing out and breathing in and breathing out......"

One of kind? Yep, she certainly is and we wouldn't change her for the world.

On this layout I've used the cute WOW's Cute Owl and inked him with a pale pink then coloured in his gorgeous details with texta.

With the WOW 1 of a Kind title I inked a base coat. Then I took a Crafter's Workshop template and used it as a stencil, stamping versamark on it to make polka dots. Easy peasy!!!

Introducing Sam-WOW....

2011-07-31T22:09:00.001+10:00

In between unpacking boxes, I've been scrunched up in my very own arty farty room. Yes, peeps, that's right.....I have my very own room now. Feeling very spoilt and very lucky. I will be a good sharer though...two little ladies like to get arty farty with me. I've also got a growing number of friends who might like to come over and play too.

The scrunched up part??? Well, I've had some VIW (very important work) to do with my lovely, lovely WOW chipboard. Having a room full of boxes didn't stop the mojo flowing. I set myself up a portable table and squeezed a chair in and got to work.

Hence, my first post over on the Words or Whatever WOW blog is up....demonstrating how to use their shapes as masks. Please pop on over and take a look. There's plenty of inspiration for everyone.

Oh, and stay tuned. Who knows what will happen once the crap has been cleared!

Slowly turning it into our home...

2011-07-31T22:03:00.000+10:00

Well, we've made our move. As you can see we had a little help from little hands. Translation: Kitchen Stuff. Fragile. Tea towels too. Very helpful.

As usual, our hectic life takes over our desired life. When we should've been settling into our new home, we've been gallivanting around. Two weekends in a row back and forth to Sydney. Two weeks we've been here with bare essentials. Half the kitchen unpacked, essential clothing items, toothbrushes, towels and soap. We've been clean, dressed and fed, but it hasn't felt like home. Until today.

We've spent the day unpacking boxes. Discovering old treasures we've had packed away. Moving our furniture into the spots we think will fit best. Making plans for what we want to do to suit our personality and needs.

Slowly, slowly it's beginning to feel like home.

Dear Mr Postman....

2011-07-20T14:43:00.000+10:00

Hurry the hell up!!! I'm waiting on an important delivery.

Love, Sami.

It's official!!!

2011-07-19T17:28:00.000+10:00

The new design team for WOW Words or Whatever has been announced this morning.

Guess what??? I made the team!!!

Along with these talented ladies:

Sandrine Dawes QLD
Geli Duncan QLD
Tina Connolly QLD
Amanda Lawrence QLD

Liz Kordek SA

Kim Soloman NSW

Gilly Lester NSW

Renae Woods NSW

The insanely talented Sandra Staples is our DT Co-ordinator and the fantastically artistic Linda Baldock is Project Designer.

So excited to be joining such a group of talented ladies. Stay tuned for some inspiration...

Drowning in boxes...

2011-07-14T13:33:00.000+10:00

...well, we've made it. Into our brand new home. There's a sea of junk everywhere. I could not find any pants this morning so am wearing the man of the house's but who cares, really. We have clean teeth, clean bodies and are very happy. That's what counts.

Oh, and a miracle has occured. The kids are playing happily out in the freezing cold. Which is unheard of in our family!

We have a great driveway with a slope down to the garage so the billycart is out. The scooters are zooming about. The previous owners left a giant hammock, so there's a whole lot of swinging going on. Everyone's slept through the night for two nights in a row...that, in itself, is a miracle.

Must be because we're happy. We feel settled, even though it's still a mess. It's a great feeling.

She didn't think she could, but she did

2011-07-05T21:13:00.000+10:00

Let me start by saying....this girl is crap at scrapping without a photo. So what's a girl to do when she goes to a crop night sans photos??? She panics!

Then, she decides that she's a big girl now and should harden up and get the hell on with it! She's got a gorgeous Basic Grey paper pack to use and dammit...she's gonna do it! So she slapped some paper and stickers down and decided that she could add the photos later. Lord knows she's got plenty at home!

When she arrived home, she flicked through her photos and found a couple of beauties. She moved them around her page, she rotated her page to suit and found the spot that was just right.

She knew that she needed to tart it up a bit, so she made a banner out of paper scraps. Then she found the perfect WOW chipboard banner to add even more oomph. She stamped it with her polka dot stamp, them popped those dots with some dimensional magic.

She knew exactly what she wanted to say about those photos, so she added her title and some journalling.

Voila!!! She decided that she was happy with the result and that she actually could scrap without photos after all. She then lived happily ever after in her perfect craft room surrounded by her beautiful things. THE END

Favourites...

2011-07-02T11:09:00.001+10:00

Love looking through my albums with the kiddo's. Love finding favourites. Love how little they are. Love how happy they are. Love how much they love each other. Love that they're still the same even though they're two years older.

Just love them!

I think this layout sums up my style. Bit vintagey, handcutting, lots of bits and pieces and a little technique.

Love the chipboard....I've inked it with a few different shades of brown, then crackled it. Looks like old leather. Love these colours too!

What's she been up to???

2011-06-30T16:53:00.000+10:00

only time will tell....

Bunting or banners???

2011-06-28T22:31:00.001+10:00

Some days they're banners, others they're bunting.....never really sure what to call them.

Last Scrap Girls retreat Kylie asked me to demonstrate something for the lovely ladies and this is what I came up with. Thought I'd share some ideas with you.

The first is using some vintage sheet music (thanks Pepper!). I just cut out some triangles, lined them up where I wanted them to go, then glued them down. Once down, I then took some pearl strips and ran one along the top of the triangles. Easy peasy!!!

See the gorgeous hand-dyed embellies? They're gorgeous aren't they and from Tattered Inspirations. Do yourself a favour and click on the link and say hi to Carol!

I've had this page of diecuts forever! Never really quite knew what to do with them. Until now. There's two layers of banners. The bottom layer is just triangles cut out and I've stitched embroidery thread through.

The top layer, I've added some tags upon tags with foam tape and some epoxy buttons to the tops. I've then threaded through each one and attached each side with staples!

This layout has used photos for the banners. I've just printed out some smaller photos and punches some small holes in the top corners. I threaded through some twine, including some chipboard butterflies and Jenni Bowlin buttons. Stapled the banners to attach to the background.

The cute little title is Jenni Bowlin banner stickers on chipboard. This was an easy way to add a title.

Hope I haven't bored you so far....because there's one more!...and it's my favourite x

I've made the sheet music banner again, but to tart it up even more I've made a button banner. Was so simple. Just thread through the buttons to join them up. Decide where you'd like to place them, then glue the button down on each end. Very effective and easy peasy!

I hope you give one or more a try. They really are an easy way to add a finishing touch to your page.

Don't forget to use some of your old stash too! It's lovely to get carried away with the latest releases, but oh, so wonderful to revisit something you once treasured, but put away for something special.

Christmas in July

2011-06-27T16:19:00.000+10:00

Scrap Girls Christmas in July retreat is coming up....soon....woo-hoo!!! The countdown is well underway...only 18 more sleeps!!!

I'll be teaching the lovely ladies two classes and here's a sneaky peek at one of them! See that gorgeous butterfly? Prettified chipboard with gorgeous glitter? It's my new favourite thing to do! Easy peasy and maximum gorgeousness! I'm sure the ladies will love it. I'll share it all with you after 18 sleeps!!!

Step away from the Procrastination Station!

2011-06-27T16:11:00.000+10:00

Only two weeks until we move into our new house! So excited to be moving into something of our own. To have the luxury of hanging things on walls, to paint the colours we like (white LOL). To not have to worry about when the landlord wants us to move out.

When we were in Sydney we had a gorgeous little house that we had planned to renovate so we never did anything with it. Our building plans had just been completed when we moved (of course!).

It's only been two years since we moved to Canberra and we've moved twice. Will be nice to settle down and nest. Make our new house a home.

Of course, being the great procrastinator that I am, I've been busy doing other things unrelated to packing! Like being here on the computer. So, I guess, you'll be seeing a lot more of me blogging in the next few weeks. Anything to get out of packing!

I love photos....

2011-06-20T12:11:00.000+10:00

....because the best thing about them is that they never change - even when the people in them do.

This photo was taken on the Easter long weekend...which was not so long ago. We've all changed since then. Hell, we even changed a little on that weekend alone! Lots of little lessons that changed our way of thinking.

Myles learnt that you can't take children bushwalking on an empty stomach. Rhys learnt that the great outdoors wasn't so bad after all. Morgan learnt that it wasn't a good idea to leave your pretty, new jacket at the playground and Bryn learnt that being the smallest does have it's advantages....like being carried if you whinge enough. I'm sure our friends we went with learnt never to invite three whingey kids bushwalking again!

What did I learn on that weekend that has changed me?

Happiness is a decision.

On that weekend I decided not to worry about the things I cannot change. I will not fear the unknown but follow the trail and see what happens. Everything will be ok in the end and, if not, then it's not really the end. Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful. I will be me. Be true to myself. Be true to my family. Be true to my friends. I will make the decision to be happy and my true self will shine through.

I'm a Seasoned Scrapper....

2010-07-30T14:10:00.002+10:00

....or a wannabe. We'll see how I go.

Little Scrapbook Shop has a Seasoned Scrapper challenge on this year and Winter has begun. This is the Week 1 challenge for the season. You had to use one of their fab sketches and winter colours...pastel colours.

I've used photos of Little B trying to look at the funny glasses on her face. It was a hilarious moment. We were all laughing at her expressions and she couldn't work out what all the fuss was!

I'm totally hopeless when it comes to commitment. We'll see if I can keep it up. Week 2's challenge is to scrap your favourite winter recipe and share the recipe on the forum. I'm not much of a cook so I'm guessing I'll be 'fessing up to be a Maggi Mum B-)

Thank you, thank you, thank you...

2010-07-25T21:33:00.005+10:00

...to the lovelies over at Little Scrapbook Shop. I participated in their last Cybercrop and was lucky to be a winner!

These photos are of Miss Pink after she and Little B snuck into our bathroom while we were sleeping and mascara'ed themselves. Pretty good job for two little ladies without a mirror!!!

Thanks again ladies....love you x

For the menu planners out there...

2010-07-08T11:00:00.002+10:00

blog.ollibird.com

When I grow up and become a menu planner I am so going to use this gorgeous, gorgeous print. Blow it behind glass in a frame and use whiteboard markers to plan what Myles will be cooking us for the week! Love, love, love it!

Loving Scrap Girls....

2010-07-06T17:19:00.003+10:00

I am slowly recovering from a wonderful weekend with some amazing ladies. Scrap Girls Retreats are something EVERY scrapper has to attend at least once....then you'll be hooked and want to come again and again....I promise!

To say that I had fun would be a total understatement!!! Mayhem and foolishness is the norm and everyone joins in on the merriment.

I was lucky enough to share some ideas with the ladies and taught the above canvas class. We turned a 30x30 canvas around and used it as a shadow box. Kylie supplied us with some Prima yumminess and we created our own paper roses with a little help from everyone's friend Tim.

Those ladies who thought their skills were not up to scratch soon realised that with a little help from friends everything is possible!!!

so, so, SO much fun!!!

2010-06-30T20:21:00.003+10:00

Photocabine

Found on Rebecca's blog - thanks m'aam

I'm off to change something....

2010-06-29T07:59:00.001+10:00

A photo editor

2010-06-28T21:45:00.003+10:00

My ideas are always a little more grandiose than my skillset. Cucumbersome

I can see it in my head. I dream about it. I live it for days on end. I research it. I study it. Then I try it.

Then, only at the end, does my self-doubt set in and starts off the anxiety.

I wish it had of spoken up earlier before I did all the hard work!

What in the world is she up to????

2010-06-27T13:15:00.002+10:00

She's not quite sure....could be a disaster....could be a success. We'll just have to wait and see!

Crave

2010-06-22T21:20:00.003+10:00

I have craved a yellow bag for sooooo long.

Should I go for the local one....

Fossil

or head on over to the UK????

The Cambridge Satchel Company

Look what I found today....

2010-06-22T17:06:00.002+10:00

The Yellow House

I am now on the lookout for some gorgeous antique forks!!!

This is why I love bloghopping!!! So, so many creative peeps out there to give us inspiration. I love the idea of sharing ideas with like-minded souls. There should be more sharing in this world!

Sneaky peeky

2010-06-20T21:06:00.003+10:00

Here's a little taste of the class I'll be teaching at Scrap Girls Christmas in July retreat. Kylie puts some wonderful kits together and July's kits will amaze you!

The very talented Belle Comerford is teaching two classes that will knock your socks off!

For those of you who have not yet been to a Scrap Girls retreat...what are you waiting for???!!!! They are jam packed with fun, creating, fun, some more creating and a whole load more of fun!!! You might get a little sleep b-)

2010-06-18T17:38:00.003+10:00

A lovely morning spent photographing nature's beauty......teaching Little B about how bees make honey when along comes a life lesson. Why does the cat use the garden as a toilet? Little B didn't mind watching and the cat didn't mind being watched. Could you not have found a quiet spot somewhere else? Did you have to plant yourself right in front of us! Is there no shame cat??!!!!

Oh well....that's life!

2010-06-18T16:11:00.002+10:00

Grace Hester Designs

Inspiration

2010-06-18T12:13:00.003+10:00

I love looking at Donna Downey's Inspiration Wednesday videos. When I saw this quote in Donna's art journal I knew I had to share it. I am personally working on my art-esteem at the moment. Reminder to self: there is no wrong....only art!

2010-06-17T21:50:00.002+10:00

"...I believe laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing; kissing a lot. I believe in being strong when everything seems to be going wrong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and I believe in miracles." Audrey Hepburn

2010-04-30T09:55:00.004+10:00

NEW DIRECTION

COMING SOON

B-)

Forgive me!

2009-12-05T20:20:00.004+11:00

Been a very slack blogger. Not much creating going on here. Just a whole lot of packing!!! We are on the move. Yes, crazy us, just before Christmas. I told the man of the house if we move this time of year again we will have his and hers boxes IYKWIM b-)

Hopefully things will slow down once we hit the new house. The unpacking will happen slowly. First thing up after the beds will be the Christmas tree! Not feeling very Christmassy here. Lucky we have the choccie advent calendars to remind us!

Will try and unpack my mojo asap and get creating again!

Handmade Daisies by Sandie

2009-11-15T22:29:00.004+11:00

I have a lovely friend who lives in my computer. Her name is Sandie. She is very talented and creative. She makes the most beautiful daisies!!! She has been making these for quite a while now, you've probably seen them in your scrap store - if you haven't you should ask for some!!! They are the original and the very best!!!!

Pop on over to her blog - Handmade Daisies by Sandie - and see just what you can do with these little beauties. They brighten up anything you are working on!!!

And here they are!

2009-11-15T08:16:00.005+11:00

Let me tell you.....Miss Kylie sure knows how to put together a great kit!!! Here's the layouts I did using her Crop for a Cause kit and I've still got lots left to use!!!!! If you're lucky she'll have one left for you....pop on over to her blog or Scrap Girls.

Creating for a Cause...

2009-10-23T12:55:00.004+11:00

Kylie Sheppard-Morris from Scrap Girls and her lovely friend Joh are organising a fundraiser for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. All will be revealed at the next Scrap Girls Cropfest at Long Point, next weekend.

I was asked if I would like to join in on the fun and said "YES!" of course. Very flattered to be included with some very talented scrappers.

Here's some sneaky peekies at what I've produced....not easy for a pink-challenged scrapper, but I managed B-)

Be there or be square!!!

2009-10-08T20:55:00.003+11:00

Is it just me???

2009-10-02T21:12:00.001+10:00

Or do you also look back on your older layouts and lose some love for them? I'm always loving my latest creations B-)

A tops time!!!

2009-10-02T20:38:00.004+10:00

Scrap Girls Retreats....well, what can I say??? Except that if you come along you'll have the most fabulous time with a 'tops' group of scrapbookers.

These pics are from the Christmas in July retreat at Stanwell Tops...and it was tops!!!

I'm off in a couple of weeks to the October Cropfest and I can hardly contain my excitement!!! It's guaranteed that I will have a great time with like-minded ladies. Lots of scrapping, delicious food by the wondrous Belle, games galore!!! The theme is 'Pink Halloween' ... not sure what to dress up as ... any suggestions???

Do yourself a favour and pop on over to Scrap Girls and say hello to Kylie....you'll be glad that you did!

2009-09-17T11:32:00.004+10:00

The inspirational team members layouts are up for September's Word Pictures challenge. This month's challenge was designed by one of our team members Deb Hosking. It's been nice having the girls take turns to do the challenges and give me a break. This means that I get to blind scrap...yeah!

Here's my take on this month's challenge....hope you likey!

The added extra challenge this month was to use a decorative border somewhere on your page. I chose to do a pleated ribbon with a little wooden heart and a sticker. I also handstitched a border with red thread.

Why don't you pop over to Word Pictures and take a peek....you should give it a try!! It's easier than you think and there's some great prizes to be won. Tell your friends!

I've been there sister!!!

2009-09-08T22:09:00.001+10:00

This one's for you Tash B-)

Beautiful day here!

2009-09-04T13:27:00.002+10:00

Just spent some time in the garden with the girlies....the bulbs are popping up and there's flowers everywhere you look!!! There's one thing to say about Canberra.....every season has a colour. Beautiful pink & white blossoms on the trees, spring flowers popping up. It's a joy to behold. The girls are having a wonderful time too B-)

It's that time already!!!

2009-09-01T22:02:00.004+10:00

September's challenge is up!!! Pop on over and check it out....easy peasy challenge....you could win a prize from our fantastic sponsors!

Click on the pic, click on the pic, click on the pic!

We made it!!!

2009-09-01T16:05:00.002+10:00

So nice to see spring has finally arrived!!! Not that it's any warmer here in Canberra, but it seems different somehow.

Exciting news....

2009-08-23T21:25:00.000+10:00

Bon's DT Competition starts tomorrow. Click on her logo and take a look! Sounds like lots of fun!!!

I'd like to thank the academy....

2009-08-21T12:04:00.003+10:00

Remember this layout from a few days ago???? I'm putting it up again because I love this photo of Miss Pink soooo much and also because I was lucky enough to be a WINNER! To say that I am thrilled is an understatement.

Thanks to Cath, Nicole and the fabulously talented design team over at Little Scrapbook Shop. You are crazy, fun and totally amazing! If you haven't already visited the girls, you don't know what you're missing.....get over there!!!

Some more inspiration...

2009-08-17T22:31:00.002+10:00

Come on over to Word Pictures....inspirational team layouts are up for August! Just click on the pic!!! Go on.......click the pic, click the pic, click the pic!!!!

Cybercrop layouts!!!

2009-08-17T22:14:00.004+10:00

Little Scrapbook Shop had it's August cybercrop on the weekend...always TONS of inspiration!!!Even though we've had a busy weekend, I managed to get two challenges done.

The first was by Tara. She gave us a layout that we could use as the basis or as a sketch or take the elements and make it your own. Short of time Sami took the sketch option...quick and easy! Loving me some June Bug this weekend!!!!

The second challenge was one by Kerryn Lewrothy to create a layout with a peek-a-boo element. Her inspiration was a wonderful pic of some round windows. When I first read it I thought 'eeeeek', but after sleeping on it I came up with this....

I used a transparency to divide the patterned paper and then added Bazzill leaves to it. Bella alpha title and some really, really old flowers I've had for donkeys!!!

This paper is also from the Basic Grey June Bug collection. Sooooo pretty and soooo different from my other two layouts from this weekend.

Hope you find some inspiration from this. Let me know what you think!

Great challenge!!!

2009-08-15T20:53:00.004+10:00

Tonight's the night where I put up the inspirational team's layouts up over at Scrapping Word Pictures. Emma Morris was our guest designer this month and put together the word picture challenge that helped me produce this.....

I love this pic of Miss Pink blowing bubbles while my uncle gives her some help in the background!!! His face is priceless!!!!

I've used the fabulously 'out there' june bug papers & stickers from Basic Grey. So bright and wonderful!!!!

Hope you pop on over and join in on the fun.....you have until midnight on 31 August to send in your layouts.

Don't forget to tell your friends!!!

There's fun to be had....

2009-08-15T09:28:00.001+10:00

Culture shock!!!

2009-08-06T16:10:00.002+10:00

TFan (running into kitchen): Do you wanna suck on my pisang?

Mummy (picking herself up off the floor): I beg your pardon!!!!

TFan: do you wanna suck on my pisang....it means banana in Indonesian.

Mummy (not really sure what to do): oh

TFan: it does, it really does, I looked it up in the Indonesian dictionary the other day

Mummy (now sure he didn't really mean it the say she heard it): oh, that's clever

Note to self: Keep your mind out of the gutter!!

She's a comedian, she is...

2009-08-03T14:33:00.003+10:00

random convo in the back of the car...

Miss Pink: Knock, knock
TFan: Who's there?
Miss Pink: If a tree gets cut down
TFan: If a tree gets cut down who?
Miss Pink: If a tree gets cut down it might fall on your head
TFan: That's not funny!!!
Miss Pink: makes sense though!

It's up!!!!

2009-08-01T23:47:00.003+10:00

WordPictures August challenge is up! We have a guest designer this month....the lovely Emma Morris aka bookaruth. She's a regular at WordPictures and also at Chooks Scraps!

Pop on over...and tell your friends!!!

Only one more sleep!!!

2009-07-31T14:09:00.006+10:00

Do you believe that tomorrow is already the first day of AUGUST?!!! I certainly am in denial...it can't possibly be!

Anyhoo....it is....and this means that WordPictures new challenge will be up by midnight, 1 August....tomorrow night!

As many of you know, due to circumstances beyond my control ie. the piggy flu, mypoor old challenge blog has been sadly neglected. To make up for this neglect, I have tarted her up a little! All will be revealed....make sure you stop over tomorrow night!

Hope this gives you a giggle!

2009-07-29T22:00:00.001+10:00

Translator please!!!

2009-07-24T13:16:00.005+10:00

I was checking out Tara Whitney's blog this morning when the girlies came over for a look and decided they wanted to sing like Anna.....

Truly inspiring lyrics...I'm sure you'll agree!

Lucky me!!

2009-07-22T21:11:00.004+10:00

Last weekend was a scrappy one....Miss Pink and I *attended* Chooks Scraps cybercrop! They had fantastic challenges and are the nicest bunch of ladies ever!!

They have a chicken's challenge for the little scrappers. My chicky had to use a handmade embellishment, some ribbon and distressing.

For the handmade embellishment she handcut some flowers from a mag freebie paper and added good ol' kindy glitz! She wrote her title....she can't read yet, but can write her letters. She knew what she wanted and I just had to spell it for her. She wrote it in texta then traced over it in kindy glitz. Ribbon was added...pink of course! The distressing part?? Well what part of a layout by a four year old isn't distressed and what mother of a four year old using scissors and kindy glitz isn't distressed!! I'm very proud of her!!!!!

I only completed one challenge....I had to use numbers, one or more square pics and chipboard title. Voila!

I have had this photo printed and the number paper for ages!!! Just needed the inspiration! A4 pic cut down square, patterned paper trimmed, Bella chipboard alphas (love), 2 pieces of cardstock and some alpha stickers. I am thrilled to have finally scrapped one of my fave photos of TFan....love it!!!

I was nosing around in the forum at Chooks today and had a wonderful surprise! They have a layout of the day....and this one was chosen!!!! LUCKY ME!!!

Thanks to the chooks xxxx

I am very challenged....

2009-07-20T21:31:00.001+10:00

You all know by now that I taught at the last Scrap Girls Retreat...and had a blast!!! I know I am raving...but it really was that good!

Those of you who attended will also know that I left all of my layouts at home....eeeeekkkk! How embarassment!!!

Anyhoo....each attendee receives a challenge pack...and I have to say "Kylie does one mean challenge pack". Loads of wonderful stuff to work with!

Without further ado......I present.....my challenge pack layouts!!! (minus one which I don't really like which might have something to do with the fact that's a layout about my 40th!)

How glamourous are we??!!! This was before 7am on Valentines Day....just remember when I take my glasses off he's Keith and when he takes his glasses off I'm Nicole!

Another way to use my new favourite sunbursts! The challenge kit had double sided papers which was quite a handy way to get more bang for your buck.

Some raw chipboard for you....liking this look at the moment.

One for Miss Pink with sore eyes....not so lazy with the chipboard this time....inked and dimensional magic-ed!

Are you liking the dotted swiss cardstock??? Used some Bella flowers on this one too.

More raw chipboard! Paper pieced some trees for this one...just punched some circles and added some trunks and little hearts. Have you noticed the journalling cards??? They were part of the pack too!!

Last, but not least! Included in the pack was a sheet of Basic Grey alphas! More my colours here. We had just received TFan's report so I made a pocket to put it in....

Hope it was worth the wait!

Fair enough....

2009-07-20T16:16:00.002+10:00

We're back to school today...YAY! I think Miss Pink and I were the only ones excited about it.

Getting information from TFan is incredibly hard! I usually ask who got into trouble today and that spurs a conversation and we find out a little about his day. This afternoon I asked him what was the best part of his day? His reply????

Lunch

Are you sick of me yet????

2009-07-19T22:37:00.003+10:00

No??? Good, because I've got lots more to share tomorrow night! Stay tuned B-)

Don't forget to leave me a comment....c'mon I know you're out there....nobody's there??!! Must be naked dancing time again!!! (while noone's watching)

Best Little Cybercrop...

2009-07-19T15:01:00.004+10:00

I've been having lots of fun at the Little Scrapbook Shop's cybercrop!! The theme this month is idioms eg. let the cat out of the bag, kick the bucket. Very fun. Great bunch of ladies! Bingo was a hoot!!!

Here's my take on challenge two by Tash Allen....use some photos showing someone being crazy, silly and the title 'Mad as a Hatter'. Unfortunately for Myles...it was him...even though I had a million photos to choose from! We are a crazy family it seems.

I've cut a big loop out of some Kaisercraft paper (because he's loopy) and added some old alpha stickers & random brads. There was an extra challenge to use paint on one or more of your challenges and I chose to use it on this one. Not my cup of tea I must admit....cursing myself for throwing out a huge piece of bubble wrap the other day....but found one of the girls foam beads kicking around and....voila!

The next one was a sketch challenge by Kerryn Leworthy. I loved this sketch and will definitely be using it again!!

I bought these Basic Grey doilies at the Scrap Girls Retreat and have been dying to use them! When I saw the sketch they were the first thing I thought of. I've done a paper napkin/transparency thingy...love the effect it has. Added some lace, thickers and a journalling spot. Easy peasy!!!

If you've never *attended* a cybercrop - you should give it a go!!! You can be as involved as you want to be....if anything, you'll get some great ideas!!!

Scrapping up a storn!

2009-07-19T13:41:00.002+10:00

I've been a busy girly this weekend....cybercropping! Will have LOTS to share very soon.....busy, busy, busy.

My new favourite thing!

2009-07-17T11:51:00.003+10:00

When I saw 123 Scrapbook's July Sketch Challenge I couldn't resist. After all, it has my new favourite thing.....a sunburst!!!

I used the same method as my last two layouts....just on a smaller scale. I'm lovin' it!!! Can't you tell!

I've used the gorgeous My Mind's Eye Pretty Please Paper Kit...stunning!!!

It's a fantastic sketch by Karlene Fahey....go over here and check it out!

I managed to get something done....

2009-07-16T14:12:00.009+10:00

....between the fabulous fun at Scrap Girls I managed to get a few layouts done. I'm hopeless at scrapping when I'm away from home! Too busy enjoying the company - floating around and chatting away. Anyhoo...here's a few...

I started this one at about 1am Sunday morning and when I woke up at 8am promptly pulled it apart and started again! Lesson learnt: I am not a late night scrapper!

I have used an Enchanted Scrapbooking kit for this one. Very good quality...check them out!

Am loving the Carolees teeny tiny alpha stickers at the moment!!!

Next is one I created using the wonderful Kaisercraft ribbons out at the moment. I love how one pack of ribbons is in tones of a colour - very easy for rainbows! They're a great price too!! Little Scrapbook Shop has these in a myriad of colours - check 'em out.

I used a technique I first learnt from the fabulously talented Sandra Staples. Am loving this look!! So much that I used it on my next layout....

At the retreat I purchased the Basic Grey June Bug kit. Sooooo me! I'm sure you'll be seeing lots more of this from me.

Little Scrapbook Shop sponsored a challenging challenge. You had 15 minutes to get everything together, no cutting or adhering, then 45 minutes to complete your layout! Phew....very hard for a slow and steady scrapper like myself...but I did it!

Remember the masculine class layout?? Well, I did one with girly colours! Another favourite of mine.

Quite a few of the ladies did other colours...we even had Christmas colours!!! They were easy to do and very effective. Amazing how different colours and embellies make totally different looks!

I think that's enough for now don't you. Overload!!!! Still finishing off a couple - show you when I'm done. B-)

I'm a very lucky ducky!!!

2009-07-16T13:15:00.005+10:00

You may remember that Kylie from Scrap Girls asked me to come along to their Christmas in July retreat to teach some classes. Well it all happened last weekend and let me tell you....it was FABULOUS!! The Scrap Girls sure do know how to put on a great retreat!!!

Thought I'd share my class layouts with you.

First one is a Christmas layout using gorgeous Basic Grey....

Next was a masculine layout......this is one of my ALL TIME FAVOURITE layouts!!! I hope you like it as much as I do. I was inspired by a fantastic Sassafrass Lass paper and used gorgeous Scenic Route.

I have to admit that I was nervous about teaching a class with such a big group....over 50 ladies....but everyone was so easy to work with!! A really wonderful bunch of new friends.

It didn't help that after two hours of driving I discovered I had left my layouts at home! AAARGH!! Panic & tears!!! Luckily Kylie supplied everyone with detailed instructions and beautiful colour photos to work with.

If you haven't checked out Scrap Girls do yourself a favour and pop over. They organise wonderfully organised weekends, have amazing challenge kits and are tons of fun! Cath and Nicole from Little Scrapbook Shop also come along and bring the shop with them. Amazing what can fit into two cars LOL. They have some awesome stuff in the shop. You MUST take a look!

Thanks to Kylie, Tracy, Jo, Cath & Nicole and all you wonderful ladies for a FANTASTIC WEEKEND!!! I'm looking foward to coming along to another retreat soon.

Are you looking for some inspiration??

2009-07-16T08:37:00.003+10:00

I've just been blog hopping around (or blopping as I call it) and found some amazing inspiration from the girls at 2Crafty!

They sure know how to do some amazing things with chipboard....go check it out.

I know....I know....

2009-07-14T22:21:00.004+10:00

....been MIA for far too long!

Got back into action at the Scrap Girls Christmas in July retreat at Stanwell Tops on the weekend and it was TOPS!!! Had an amazing time!

Lots to share with you....lots of news and lots of layouts....will be back over the next few days to update....I PROMISE!

White with 1

2009-04-27T18:20:00.003+10:00

Here's my take on this month's White with 1 challenge - White with coral.

Just a little reminder to myself to always look on the bright side of life!

Happy and healthy...

2009-04-23T22:56:00.003+10:00

Here's the happy threesome taken a couple of weeks ago. We were up at Grandma's in Brisbane in the nice warm weather...not we're back to Canberra and it's 20 degrees colder...brrrrr. Other than the cold weather, we've all settled in amazingly well.

TFan loves school, has lots of friends, been to a few birthday parties and has a wonderful friend across the road. He's happy anywhere there's a computer or a DS!

Miss Pink is loving preschool!! She is a popular with her new friends, is learning to read and write, thinks she is Australia's Next Top Model and is still fighting the world to do it her way!

Little B is her usual cheery self. She is at daycare 3 days, which she loves when she gets over the fact that we've left her, she has a boyfriend across the road, still thinks she's a cat most days and fills our life with laughter and joy.

Mummy & Daddy are happy too! Daddy is still working very hard, but we get to see him a lot more. Mummy has gone back to work 3 days and is enjoying the break.

We all now have our own space in our own home. It's lovely to be able to swing the cat!!!

Got a new gig!!!!!

2009-04-09T19:18:00.008+10:00

My bottom's not here yet....but it will soon be!!!

I am absolutely delighted to announce that I will be joining the Scrap Girls as one of their teachers!! Yee-Hah!!! Together with the talented Kylie Sheppard-Morris and Tracy Wyldman, I will be teaching at their Christmas in July getaway at Stanwell Tops.

I get to combine two of my favourite things, scrapbooking and Christmas, and spend some time with some wonderful ladies. I'm looking forward to making some new friends and meeting some old.

Kylie has some special things planned....you definitely need to pop over and check out what Scrap Girls has to offer. Come and join in on the fun...there'll be lots of it!!!

Great new site!!!

2009-04-02T10:25:00.002+11:00

Tracey and Jodi have opened a wonderful new online store - Enchanted Scrapbooking. You really should pop on in and take a look. They have some wonderful kits and VERY reasonable prices. There's classes coming up and a cybercrop so make sure you check out the forum too!

MIA...sorry!

2009-03-27T14:04:00.005+11:00

I've been a slack blogger again! I have been busy over at Scrapping Word Pictures. Designing the challenges, completing the layouts to go with them and to top it off, we're looking for a new inspirational team member!!! If you're interested pop on over and check it out or send me an email at word.pictures@hotmail.com. For those of you who have thought they might like to join in.....come on over and give it a try! It's easier than you think....really!!

Here's my take on March's challenge featuring the lovely Little B! She's obsessed with our telescope at the moment. She hasn't quite figured out how to work it, but spends ages trying!! The eye she uses to see is usually closed....not that she can see anything while it's pointed at the wall LOL!!

Easy-peasy crackle update!

2009-03-05T08:11:00.002+11:00

Found the crackle medium I used on my last layouts! It's Plaid Gallery Glass Crackle Medium. It comes in a small bottle, kinda like a dimensional magic bottle, with a light blue lid. The very talented Jenny from City Scrapbooking put me on to it. Once I saw how easy it was to use I was hooked!

For my 2Crafty chipboard examples I just coloured the pieces with ink. Then applied the crackle medium. No need for a final coat of paint! It goes on just like Dimensional Magic and when it drys the crackle appears. Fantastic!!!

Some more to share!

2009-03-02T16:11:00.008+11:00

I'm on a roll today! Got some catching up to!!

Just wanted to share some layouts I've done recently using 2Crafty chipboard. Their range of chipboard is amazing! Take a look at their website and see what a great range they have. When I saw their Skull & Crossbones I knew I had the perfect photos!!!

I inked the chipboard shapes with silver ink then used an easy-peasy one step crackling medium over the top. It gives a metallic look, which is a bit hard to see in photos.

You may have seen some of my layouts using large scalloped circles. I usually cut out the circle by hand and use a scallop punch around the edge....SILLY ME!

When I saw 2Crafty's scalloped circle chipboard I fell in love! You get good value for money in the pack. Lots to work with!

This time I blended three different shades of brown ink then used the easy-peasy crackle again. It gives a wonderful worn leather look. Great for vintage style layouts!

You should take some time out to visit the 2Crafty Blog. Debra Harvey and Anthea Peterson have some wonderful eye candy for you to be inspired by!

Have fun!!!

I'm baaaaack!!!

2009-03-02T15:54:00.004+11:00

We're happily settled into our Nation's capital, so now it's back to business!

First of all, here's a layout I did for a random challenge at 123Scrapbook. I had to do a monochromatic layout with glitter and five or more eyelets. Let me tell you it's been a while since I used eyelets! You may remember the last time I was challenged....to use toilet paper!!! I was praying the girls would be good to me and they were.

I originally designed this page for a class at City Scrapbooking. The original page was a daytime scene (I'll find it and post it when I can.

Just so you know....

2009-01-11T08:53:00.002+11:00

I won't be around for a little while now. We've only got four more sleeps in our little house. Things are hectic to say the least! We're very popular at the moment with friends and family saying their goodbyes. There's still a ton of junk to pack! I'm still taking my 365 photos though.....

See you when we hit Canberra!

3 of 365

2009-01-03T22:20:00.007+11:00

I almost forgot today's photo already! And Im only up to day 3!!!!

I've lugged my camera around all day. Even my zoon lens too! Made sure my battery was charged and ready to shoot all day.

We had plans to go to Taronga Zoo. Woke up to find a cool, cloudy day. Perfect weather for the zoo! Packed the lunches and snacks, raincoats just in case and a change of clothes. We always get wet at the zoo!

Piled the munchkins into the car and away we went. So glad we don't have a long drive to get there. And I must say that I don't think I will ever lose the thrill of driving through the city and over the Harbour Bridge!

On arriving at the zoo we realised what a perfect day for a zoo visit it was. Everyone had the same idea, there was millions of people there! I say millions because there was enough cars to carry a million people! The line up into the zoo from the ferry was soooo long too! We drove around for quite a while, and after no luck with parking decided we'd risk the whining of disappointed children for the sake of our sanity.

Little B was fast asleep and, even though she was so excited, she didn't really know what the zoo was! TFan didn't want to leave home and his beloved Club Penguin in the first place. Miss Pink had already pre-warned us about her reputation for car sickness and how driving around and around wasn't helping her. We decided not to risk that!!!! So we turned around and decided to spend our time at shopping centre having junk food for lunch and looking at toys. Seems it was a winner, with everyone declaring it the 'best day ever'. Our lot are easily pleased!

Now I'm sitting here at the laptop blogging away. Am working hard on Scrapping Word Pictures. Currently looking for sponsors (anyone out there?)! This month's challenge was posted yesterday. I've added a little twist this month with the inclusion of an extra technique. This month it is embellished circles. I will be posting lots of hints and tips and techniques to help everyone along.

Funny, I said last year that I wanted to challenge myself artistically. I decided to apply for the inspirational team at Word Pictures and joined the team. Now I'm actually running the show! Talk about seeing a resolution through...who would've thought. Certainly not me!

I have to firm up my resolution for this year. I've got a few in mind, but I want to have just one so I've got a chance of actually doing it. Will keep you posted.....

Now I'm off to Scrapbook Divas. Michelle has a great half yearly clearance sale on until the 17th. See you there!

A photo a day...

2009-01-02T23:07:00.013+11:00

This is gonna be interesting...let's see how long it lasts before my ADD kicks in and I'm off on another tangent!

My goal is to take a photo a day for the whole year...365 photos! I don't think I'll have a problem with the taking of the photos, I already do that. It's the documenting of the story behind the picture that I'm truly slack with. I need to fix this and I intend to fix it this year!

So, without further ado, I present 1 of 365!

This is the first face I saw this year, Miss Pink, the last child standing on New Years Eve.

She waited and waited for midnight, even though she didn't know what the fuss was about. She counted down to midnight and watched the Sydney Harbour fireworks on the telly with me. She was the first person I kissed this year. She was adorable and excited and as soon as the fireworks were finished she crashed!

I love her, and her yucky dummies! Bless her.

Also presenting 2 of 365...TFan climbing the walls!

With all the kerfuffle of the preparations for the migration, we've been spending a lot of time at home lately.

TFan loves to be at home, spending the day in his jammies playing with his trains, surfing the net on the computer, drawing, reading and generally bumming around.

His famous quote on taking him to see a prospective home in the country "I don't want to live in the country, there's too much grass and someone might make me go outside and play!"

He's turning pale and climbing the walls. The next step is either turning into a vampire (which is quite fashionable at the moment) or a visit to the park to work off some of that energy...whether he likes it or not.

Gotta love the boy. He's funny and sweet and loves his mum a whole LOT!

Well hellooooooo 2009!

2009-01-02T22:56:00.005+11:00

Hello my neglected friends! So sorry to have been away for so long. What is it Mr Lennon sang? "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". Tell me about it!

Hectic, hectic, hectic here. Getting ready for our migration to the south. Packing up our little house with a big house's contents!

When we first moved in we had hardly any furniture, some boxes of books and craft stuff and our newly-wed selves. Eight years later, we have a whole load of furniture, even more books and craft stuff, and three little bodies to take with us when we go! Who would have thought that so much would have happened in such a short time...certainly not us!

It will be very hard to leave this house that we fell in love with at first sight. But onwards and upwards. The future's so bright, we've gotta wear shades!

Twas the day before Christmas...

2008-12-24T15:32:00.011+11:00

No, he hasn't seen a horrible monster or chopped off his fingers in a terrible accident.

Didn'cha know this is his excited face! (as requested by his mother for pictorial purposes)

Why is he excited? "Can't wait for this day to be over!"

When asked what is the best thing about Christmas Eve...."sleeping...oh...and waiting!"

What does he want for Christmas? "Club Penguin on the DS."

Mum says: "It's only available in the US."

He says: "Santa can bring it from the US on his way."

Mum says: "He has problems with customs and might not be able to deliver that so don't be disappointed."

He says: "OK...and I have to tell you when I hear a bird don't I?"

Our munchkins are trained not to get up before the birds make a noise (sometimes this works). So here's hoping those city birds out there have a big Christmas Eve and wake up very late with hangovers!!!

No, she is not in pain either. No, she doesn't have a sibling giving her an arm burn.

Yes, she too is excited! We've been busy this morning colouring a few more decorations for the tree. Anything to keep 'em busy and stop 'em bouncing off the walls with excitement.

Mum: "are you excited today?"

She says: "I am excited tonight that Santa's coming."

Mum says: "how do you know Santa's going to come?"

She says: "because it's one day and you told me Santa's going to come tonight so...."

"Helloooooo, it's Christmas" in that sarcastic, shaking her head with a smile, three year old voice.

Mum says: "what would you like Santa to bring you?"

She says: "bike and barbie and I think he will see my note, b'member when we had a photo taken and we write a note. (I'm sure Santa can read her writing!) I think he will see that. It said dear Santa, I want for Christmas Barbie, a bike, and whatever things" (she is not a short answer kinda girl - takes after her Daddy)

And this dear, sweet little one is not excited....she is not well today. Got the same yucky cold her mummy has!

I'm sure she would be excited if she really got what this Christmas thing is all about. She's been involved in the ritual turning on of the lights and the advent calendar choccies! She just goes right along on the ride, just doesn't know what excitement the destination brings!

Tomorrow she will be squealing with delight as she opens her presents. Today she has no idea they're coming. That's the beauty of being two....being oblivious to all the day before excitement and the element of surprise on the day! At least there's one munchkin this year who won't be up early for pressies!

Don't get me wrong, she knows Santa. They became acquainted yesterday. She just doesn't know of the pleasures he brings! She was not at all phased by the big man with the white hairy face. She sat right up there on his knee for our family photo. Braver than the other two!

She decided to decorate herself this morning with a black texta nose and a bit of swirling on the cheek. Black painted fingernails. No last minute trip to the beautician for this one!

Wishing you and yours a fantastic Christmas!!!!

This is soooo me...

2008-12-03T13:56:00.011+11:00

You may remember a post back in November where I linked to Robin Werlich's gorgeous scrap space. After drooling over it for a while I realised that I'm only a chair and a helluva lot of scrap stash away from that room. I've cleaned up my act and my space to show you....

I've taken over a corner of our dining room. Yes...it's red! The colour looks a lot deeper IRL. When we first bought our house we thought we'd be changing the colour, but no....we fell in love with in instead! I display some of my creations on the fireplace and I've started a collection of ampersands.

I've got a black bookshelf against one wall filled with Ikea storage boxes. Love that place!!!

The black ones have my embellishments. Each box is a different colour eg. black/white, red/pink, blue/green, brown/orange, metallic and one has chipboard in it.

The red boxes have my alphabets, haby supplies (felt etc), tools and flowers. Jars have foam stamps. Baskets have bling, brad boxes & UFO's.

The bottom is filled with part of my magazine collection. I have waaay too many mags, but I do still look at the old issues for ideas. Love my magazines!!

My desk is a wooden trestle table. I did have it covered with some fabric, but it was a hassle. I quite like it raw! On my desk I have my papers and cardstock in cropper hopper holders. I've also got paper takers with stickers and journalling tags and templates. The white boxes on top hold paper scraps and projects I am working on. I've got a basket with my often used tools and a jar of inks. Behind the framed photo is a bucketful of punches. The white boxes on the left hold any emphemera I'd like to use. I think I've even got a pair of shoes in there! I've also got a huge round hatbox filled with ribbon.

So if anyone finds a polka dot chair and some gigantic buttons, please let me know.....

Finally! Some scrapbooking...

2008-11-30T22:00:00.003+11:00

I have just sent through my take on November's White with 1 challenge. Had to use White predominantly, Lime & Scallops. Mama's top suited this perfectly!!

I have used gorgeous K&Co papers - so bright and delicious! Handcut the flowers, added some silk flowers & gems and no layout would be complete without good ol' Kindy Glitz! Was feeling lazy, so doodled some stitching around the scallops. Must get my sewing machine out one day!

I'm enjoying doing challenges and not just because I run a challenge blog. Gets my motor running and I actually get something done, rather that just thinking about what I'm gonna do! You should all give it a try.

Scrapping Word Pictures December challenge will be up tomorrow night. Pop on in, have a look at what it's all about, and join in! You could win a cool prize.

Some little treasures...

2008-11-25T14:38:00.003+11:00

On my blog hopping adventures I found these delightful LaserCuts by Cindy! You have to go have a look at the Christmas bauble lasercuts & albums. There's amazing fairies and spiderwebs and lots more! I know you'll love them so thought I should share!

Cindy has a giveaway happening at the moment, so make sure you take a look!!!

I've been tagged!

2008-11-16T10:39:00.008+11:00

I do have friends out there in cyber world LOL! The lovely Tracy and Renee have tagged me. This means that I have to divulge 6 random facts about myself. Hmmmm, let me see....

1. My husband and I started as a joke! We were set up by friends because we have the 'same glasses'. They gave him to me on my birthday at a bar where, after a 'few' drinkies, they wrapped his tie into a bow around his head and presented him to me. Nice present hey! The joke's on them though...we've been together for 10 years now.
2. I have three children. TFan is 6, Miss Pink is 3.75 & Little B has just turned 2. I'd gotten used to the fact that I may not have kids, so to have three is a complete surprise! Little B was a total shock!!!
3. I am scared of birds. Anything to do with them! If a feather touches me I freak. Had to get rid of the feather quilt & restuff the lounge cushions LOL! I've gotten braver for the sake of the children (don't want to pass on my phobias) but if one comes near me I'll have a heart attack!!!
4. I have an extended family. My brother & I grew up together and we are very close. I have 3 siblings I haven't seen for a very long time. Would love to find them. I also have twin half sisters who are 13. Lucky me!
5. I have a desire to learn the drums. Did African drumming for a while until I was invited to join in at the Mardi Gras parade and I got stage fright. Also did a 6 week adult education course when TFan was a baby. I own a pair of drumsticks and break out now and then when noone is watching. My little sister is an amazing drummer so I'll have to live out my fantasy through her.
6. I love having short hair!!! The shortest I've had is a no. 2. LOVED it! Growing it out now, for a change. My hair is very curly so takes ages to get long. I'm going through the 'Leo Sayer' phase at the moment. It grows out before it grows down. Lot's of greys now too. MUST get a colour....what colour should I choose I wonder?!

I hope I haven't bored you. I didn't think I had anything to say and I've gone off on a tangent and blurted out a novel!!!

Will post some scrapbooking soon.....

Sneak peek at Saturday's class...

2008-11-10T11:03:00.003+11:00

I'm doing a Sticker Sensation class at City Scrapbooking this weekend. Using the amazing Basic Grey Elements Stickers.

I LOVE these stickers!! They are sooooo versatile and look fabulous on the page. It's amazing how using some stickers and bling make a layout POP!

If you can, come along and join in. We always have a lot of FUN and giggling is compulsory!

This is soooooo me!

2008-11-04T11:30:00.004+11:00

My perfect space. Oooooh the colours, the storage, the chair, the mess!!! The only thing I'd change would be S's instead of R's!

Take a look....Dream on Sami!

New challenge for me...

2008-10-31T11:30:00.005+11:00

I've been on the Scrapping Word Pictures inspirational team for a few months. You may have seen me there!

Unfortunately for Tracey, she is no longer able to run the challenges. Fortunately for me......I will be taking over! YAY!

Come over and have a look! The next challenge is going to be up 1 November. Lots of fun and some great sponsors offering fantastic prizes!

The olden days....

2008-10-29T13:20:00.006+11:00

Miss Pink: "Mummy, do you b'member d' olden days? When I couldn't do dat because I was too little. How many was I. Was I one or two?"

Seeing as though she's 3.5, the olden days weren't that long ago! I suppose it's all relative.

Now, in my olden days....that's another story!!

As seen on TV...

2008-10-24T11:49:00.004+11:00

Jenny from City Scrapbooking was approached to tape 2 classes for Scrap It TV*. She was too chicken (lol) to do it herself so she invited me to join in! Lucky me! It was a great experience, even if a little nervewracking, and we had lots of fun doing it.

This is the page I showcased. It's one of my wonderful nephew who we love so much (just in case he's reading)! I let him know what I was doing and I think he was quite chuffed he was going to be on TV! He's the entertainer in the family.

I used the Basic Grey Boxer papers & element stickers. I love these stickers!! They add soooooo much to your page with very little effort. I've added Bella chipboard letters too!

My show was on last Friday night. I didn't quite see myself as I had to compete with Little B's head in the middle of the screen kissing Mummy every time she came on screen. Miss Pink kept coming over and proudly cuddling me. TFan was quite pleased, his photo was used in the page I was making on screen (to be shown at a later date when it's no longer a UFO). Missed Sunday's replay too as we were funning it up at the beach. I've got a lovely online friend (kissy-kissy) who may have dvd'd it for me so I might get a look.

Jenny has yet to appear, so keep an eye out for her. She did an amazing job showcasing Bella's beautiful mini albums.

*Scrap It TV is a new program currently showing on Aurora Community Channel on Foxtel, Friday nights at 8pm and Sunday mornings 11.30am.

My girl is a genius....

2008-10-23T16:58:00.003+11:00

Conversation in the kitchen with Miss Pink who's main goal in life is to whistle and who's hand gestures are wild enough to create enough wind power to run the City of Sydney....

MP: There is only one toof fairy
Me: Is there?
MP: Yes *insert huge inhale here*and her comes and takes your toofs and puts them in a pocket and takes them away and then you can whistle...*another big suck of air*

There is nothing about dentistry that girl doesn't know!

I am a mean fiddler....

2008-10-19T17:37:00.005+11:00

een fiddling with my log layout. Still not happy. Want something colourful, fresh, funky - a it like myself really! May e I should leave well enough alone and stick to Minima. lah!

My new laptop, may e 2 months of age, has dropped a key. ummer!! Do you elieve it! Can you guess which key?? I'll send a RAK to whoever guesses.....

Awesome!

2008-10-16T20:54:00.007+11:00

This made me smile! Wish I had me some of those moves! Watch until the end for a cool back bend. Compliments of Angela Churchill's blog.

Challenge time...

2008-10-15T20:50:00.009+11:00

This one was done a while ago for a random challenge on 123scrapbook. The criteria was to use a photo without a person in it, use the color red and use toilet paper!!! The pic is of our cat CoCo, the colour red is there, and the toilet paper??! I mod-podged it on to the chipboard shape, then painted it red and coated with dimensional magic. It gives the chipboard some texture, kinda like bazzill. I used paper with not much embossing on it so no flowers. It's very delicate. You can't use too much or get it too wet or it shreds.I've used up some old paper from my stash. I think the tulips are K&CO. I've handcut them. This was a fun challenge!
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Bear with me....

2008-10-10T08:20:00.002+11:00

Haven't run away....just busy, busy, busy!! Lots of exciting stuff coming up on the scrapbooking front!! Lots of exciting stuff coming up on the home front!! Can't share just yet!! Be patient please!!

Join in on the fun!!!

2008-09-16T10:47:00.003+10:00

Come on over to Word Pictures and join in on September's challenge. Great way to get a layout done. You just have to follow the instructions and voila! You could win a great prize! The Inspirational Team layouts are up to help you out.