Serendipity

My Mind’s Eye Sketch Competition

2012-01-23T14:22:00.001+10:00

Playing along with Sketch Challenge 31 on the My Mind’s Eye Blog today.

I had to use this Sketch:

Also, the word “new” had to me used in the title.

I did this:

It’s titled “A New School Year” I used one of the photos I took today of my very excited little man starting his first day of school in Year two. I’ve used MME Alphabet Soup papers, teamed with some Fine & Dandy embellishments and ribbon, a Lush 2 Journaling Spot and some Lime Twist twine…

Thanks for looking!!!

First Day of School For 2012

2012-01-23T09:58:00.000+10:00

With a fair bit of sadness I sent Connor off for his first day of school – it didn’t help that he is a bit unwell – all sniffly with temps…. but he was excited – didn’t want to wait for me to take photos, but impatiently posed anyway.

Also have a few Scrappy shares for you – I just love love love October Afternoon Farmhouse at the moment – sooooooo gorgeous, love the colours, and love all the coordinating embellishments too…..

Here is what I did – I am going through a stage at the moment of scrapping in a Vintage/Shabby style – I have a heap of Vintage photos to scrap at the moment, as I raided my Nanna’s photo drawer during a recent visit. This photo is of my Great Nan (my Grandfather’s Mother) as a young lady – I remember looking at it when I was young and thinking how pretty she was, and loving the gorgeous clothes she was wearing.

I’ve used a Crafter’s Workshop template to ink the background paper, and I’ve used a heap of Prima and Manor House Creations flowers too….. Had lots of fun playing with mixed media for this one..lol..

Also, in a bit of a different style, this is a “Just ‘Cos” layout - I have used My Mind’s Eye Kraft Funday Paper – LOVE this range too – so different, funky, and perfect for boys pages.

Well, that’s it from me now – I’m off to play with some new Basic Grey Kissing Booth papers from Anna’s Craft Cupboard, and some gorgeous WOW chipboard!

Have a lovely day everyone!

WOW layouts!!

2012-01-21T08:15:00.000+10:00

Hi, just popping in to share some layouts I've done using the gorgeous WOW chipboard.
First, here is a layout about "me" I've titled it "5 Freaky Facts" just adding a few unknown facts about me - and yes, I am a little, shall I say...unusual at times...lol...

Can you see the swirly frame chipboard piece under the flowers - that is one of WOW's mini frames - and these lil frames are gorgeous - perfect for adding in a cluster for a little extra flair. I've misted mine with Tattered Angels Glimmermist - Harvest Orange.
I've used the new Basic Grey Piccadilly range here - just a gorgeous range packed full of delicate patterns and bright happy colours.
Just in case you can't read the facts..and would love a little insight into my idiosynracies...here they are..lol

I have 2 different shaped ears - one is round at the top, and the other pixie shaped (pointed at the top)
I have a PARALYSING fear of heights....soooo many times I've tried to "get over" this fear by doing things out of my comfort zone, and it always ends in me frozen, clutching onto a rail with white knuckles and crying.....
I once had a close encounter with a shark while scuba diving. Yes, I can happily scuba dive, but can't walk over a suspension bridge...go figure..
In year 12, I got the School Award for highest achievement in Music - but can't play an instrument (well, I can dabble with guitar and piano). I got through the practical aspects by singing..
I have to have clean feet to go to bed - I wash them right before I get into bed.... yes I know that is WEIRD...

OK, and here is my layout from this weeks Inpiration Post over on the WOW blog.

First of all, I used the large Cog Frames set to mist a background. I used Harvest Orange and Black Gold Glimmermist.

To add interest to my cog accents, I used the WOW Mini Cog set which I painted in Distress Crackle, then when it was dry I inked it in Distress Ink - Black Soot. I then put the cogs together with a brad, and pounded the whole thing with my Tim Holtz Textere Hammer - just to age it and give some more texter...you know how I love texture..lol..

Well, that's it for now - it you want some more chippy inspiration, don't forget to check out the WOW blog.
Off to get the "back to school" jobs done now... how much did those 7 weeks fly by?? Insane!!

Who Would like Free Chipboard??

2012-01-16T13:56:00.000+10:00

OK scrappy friends, if you would like some Free Chippy, this is what you need to do:

Purchase a piece of WOW chipboard between 1 February 2012 and 31 March 2012
(click here for stockists)
In return, your retailer will give you a specially designed filigree heart to say thank you! It looks like this... yum yum yum.... perfect for purty Valentine's pages.....

Scrapbook a page, a card or an off the page item using the filigree heart.
Post a photo of your filigree heart project on the WOW facebook page, together with the name of the store where you purchased your WOW products.
If you don't use Facebook, you can still enter by emailing your photo to wordsorwhatever@exemail.com.au.
Entries must be received between 1 February 2012 and 31 March 2012, to go into the prize draws.
There will be winners drawn at random every Wednesday between 8 February and 4 April 2012.
Two major monthly draws will be held 7 March 2012 and 4 April 2012.

This competition couldn't be any easier! Contact your local or online store to enquire about the WOW promotion. I'm looking forward to seeing your creations on the WOW fb page.

In a few days, I'll share what I've done with those gorgeous hearts!! Can't wait!!

So Excited!!!

2012-01-15T07:30:00.000+10:00

I have to admit I have been keeping a scrappy secret for quite a few weeks now - which has been so difficult considering I have been so excited all I've wanted to do is shout it from the rooftops!!

Soooooooooo - here it is:

Pretty exciting huh? I love WOW chipboard - it is the best!! I have already been creating with it, and I am having a ball altering it with all sorts of media - wheeeeeee!!!

Top 11 of 2011

2012-01-09T10:18:00.000+10:00

Been doing some reflecting this week over what happened during 2011. I really enjoyed my scrapping this year, I had some time off work, and I was able to spend more time scrapping. I also went away to my first ever retreat, which was so enjoyable..... loved it to bits, actually.
Anyway, I experimented with some different styles and techniques, tried using negative space and, shock horror, paint...lol.. I re-discovered the joy of using chipboard, and experimented with loads of ways to alter it. I hand made a lot of my embellishments - using fabric, dies and punches, and I also discovered my HUGE stash of stamps, and started using them as backgrounds to create layers.

So without further ado, here are my favourite layouts from 2011 - in no particular order :)

This would have to be one of my all-time favourite layouts. I used the stunning Little Black Dress range from Basic Grey - and a Kaisercraft Lace stamp, along with some Prima and Kaisercraft flowers. The dress form is a Dusty attick one, painted in Tim Holtz Crackle paint. I've addes some tulle (misted with Glimmermist) and some decorations to add interest. The photo is of my Mum, aged about 17. I have been lucky enough to score some fantastic vintage photos, and I am enjoying scrapping copies of them and putting them into a "Family History" album.

This is one I did really early in the year - I was still scrapping our Snow holiday photos at that stage, and used some Fancy Pants paper and other bits n pieces. I did lots of paper scrunching and inking on this one - and even used my cricut to cut out snowflakes. Love all the textures here, and how the paper wraps around the photo - kinda making my baby all snug and warm.

This layout was one I did at retreat - my gorgeous lil great-niece Eva. I stamped the circle cardstock background - edging it in pink ribbon to add interest - and made a distressed artisan shape to hug it all in... Used Basic Grey Sweet Treats...loved the muted prettty colours of this range. Ahhh - so glad I have girls to scrap now!! LOL!

Going back to grunge - this layout was done by probably my favourite range of 2011 - Crate Paper Toy Box - one of the best boy ranges ever!!! Used muslin, paint splatters and stamps to give texture to the background. Don't you love the photos - took one of the best photos ever of Connor one minute, then the next he's pulling his hat over his face so I can't take anymore...little imp...lol..

Hehe - more stamping and glimmermisting of the background here. Used another of my favourite ranges from this year - Jillibean Soup Watermelon gazpacho. LOVE bright colours - and these were so good for boys, and matched this photo perfectly. I made the Denim/Hessian flower using Tim Holtz Tattered Florals die. Had a real love affair with banners this year too - handmade this one with a circle punch. There is also a gorgeous lil flag from "A Lil Somethin" - This would have to have been the best lil handmade embie site to crop up in 2011...gorgeous, and fantastic for boy scrappers.

This is another of my all-time faves. I was thrilled with how this turned out - using gorgeous Webster's pages papers, lots of Prima/Kaisercraft flowers, lace and Prima/Websters Resin. Photo is of my lovely lil Great Nephew Kian. Couldn't resist "borrowing" this photo of my niece's Facebook album - I mean, who can resist a sleeping bubba??

Another vingage layout - using more beautiful Webster's pages... This is me dressed for the beach, aged about 3... hehe... That fence is a Dusty Attic, and it's been stamped, and Distress Embossed. I handmade the creamy coloured flowers with a scallop circle punch and patterned paper. Favourite thing to do in 2012? Make handmade flowers...lol..

Haha - told you I was really getting into Vintage/Shabby...lol..this photo is of my Dad's parents on their wedding day. Used a stamped background - and yes you've seen it before, this one is one of my favourite stamps, Hero Arts with script and butterflies... Used Pink Paislee paper and diecuts, and Prima flowers/vines, with Dusty Attic and RW Laser Cuts chipboard. Used Alcohol ink to alter the chipboard. More Scallop punch handmade flowers are on this one too..lol..

I adore this layout because I love the story behind these photos - we found this crab in some bought prawns, on Bribie Island...Connor immediately wanted to put it back in the ocean to be with its family..so cute. Pink Paislee Nantucket was used for this layout - another lovely range... I used dimensional magic on the crab diecut to make it shiney, and altered the chippy letters and coral with paint and glimmerglam. Also, I experimented with the journalling here, and typed some journalling onto some masking tape.. I liked the effect, and will definately do this again!!
Sketch was from the Get Picky site.

Another layout from the Crate paper Toy Box range. Used more muslin, this time sprayed with Mr Hueys mist and used a Tim Holtz Grunge stamp on the background. Made the hessian cogs with the Sizzix/Tim Holtz cogs Die. Loved the clustering of embies on this one - will have to do that more..lol..
Photo taken at the same time as the other Toy Box layout - amazing how Connor's mood can change ....now he's pretending to be cranky to stop me taking photos...didn't work though... still clicked away..bwwhahahah!

Here is my gorgeous sun-shiney boy happy as can be at the harbour. Used Echo Park papers for this one - one of the must-have manufacturers of 2011.

Hand made the banner here too - and used paint on the background of some swiss dot bazill - love how that technique brings up the texture of the cardstock.

Well that's it from me - thank you for joining me on my scrapping journey during 2011 :)

Hope to see more of you in 2012 - enjoy scrapping!!

December Challenges

2012-01-01T12:29:00.001+10:00

With just so much going on in December, I didn't get much of a chance to do many challenges in December - it is normally such a whirlwind month anyway, then with an emergency trip to Ipswich thrown into the mix, it was pretty hectic.
I did manage to do 2 challenges though.
First up, Wendy's fabulous Sketch Challenge over at Anna's Craft Cupboard.
Here is the sketch:

And this is what I did with it:

I had so much fun with this layout - sprayed glimmermist - Autumn Harvest and Coffee Shop, and used Simple Stories Yearography papers, Kaisercraft Diecuts and Bella Boulavard Stickers. Photos are of Connor playing in the leaves at the Gooseponds here in Mackay.

I also LOVED Scrapbook Savvy's Very Merry kits in December - they are absolutely gorgeous, and I think there are a couple left, so if you've got any money left after Christmas I highly recommend snapping these up.
I did Sar's Random Kit Challenge - the challenge was to use
3 Brads
A Christmas Photo
A quote from this site.
Oh, and to use one of the December kits, of cours.
This is what I did - using the Very Merry Traditional Kit - and some gorgeous MFT dies - the doilies, the rolled roses/mini rolled rose and the Christmas ornaments dies.

If you want to get your hands on the dies - they can be found at Anna's Craft Cupboard - HERE. They are gorgeous - and there are so many to choose from, AND they are reasonable prices too!

Before I go - I'll just share a couple more sneaks of what I'm secretly up to....tehe...

Still can't spill the beans - so you'll just have to wait...lol.
Thanks for popping by my blog!!

Finally - I've blogged!!

2011-12-30T16:49:00.001+10:00

Sorry I've been awol on this blog awhile - I have been very very busy with various commitments - Nanna was sick and I had to travel to Ipswich to help Mum care for her, thankfully she is on the mend now, Christmas preparations of course, and well - the usual for a Mummy IYKWIM...Anyways, I have been scrapping, some I can't show yet - very secret squirrel...lol but here is a sneak or two..

And this layout, which would have to be one of my all-time favourite layouts. It is a vintage photo of my Mum, aged about 17....

I've use Basic Grey paper, some Prima and Kaisercraft flowers, and some chippy dressed up with Glimmermist and Glimmer Glam.

I added to the dress frame by gethering together some tulle, which I had sprayed with glimmermist, and added some lace and a Kaisercraft sparklet to finish it off....

As I said, this would have to be one of my all-time faves as far as layouts go - just love doing vintage inspired layouts, and had a ball playing with Martha Stewart around-the-page punches, Kaisercraft stamps and mists... yumyum..
Anyways, that is all from me for now, I am now busy scrapping my Chrissy photos - so I'll be back with more shares soon..lol...

Some scrapping for me!!

2011-11-13T18:52:00.000+10:00

I did this layout last night - for no particular challenge just "for me."

I picked this paper up at Magical Memories Scrapbooking - my local scrapbook shop. It is Websters, and I just loved it. Teamed with a bit of Prima flowers,shabby chic resin, lace and vines, and Kaisercraft flowers - playing with some girliness in a shabby style was exactly what I needed.
Of coursce, being slightly OCD about colour matching, I just add to alter the colour of my Prima Shabby Chic Resin shapes...after a bit of experimenting, I found using my Copic Markers worked a treat - the alcohol ink in the markers was great to use :)
Here is a close up:

That's it for me, I am working on another "for me" layout at the moment - and experimenting with my Martha Stewart Fringing Scissors...
TFL!!

Hold on to your chairs....

2011-11-11T15:26:00.000+10:00

I have scrapped a double!! Used some Basic Grey, Dusty Attic Chipboard and some Kaisercraft flowers. Some of the flowers were white, but I sprayed them - and the yellow part of the title, with some Studio Calico Mr Huey's mist - Sunshine
Here it is - photos are of Connor at his school's International Day - they did the German Clap Dance

I've also been participating in the monthly challenges over at Scrapbook Savvy. This is Kerryn's Manufacturer challenge - which was to use some Jillibean Soup - I chose me fave, Watermelon Gazpacho.

Thanks for popping by - I promise I will be a more regular blog updater...lol...

October Kraft It Up

2011-10-30T23:10:00.000+10:00

Well, it's that time of the month again - time to upload layouts for all the competitions around.
This is my layout for the fabulous Kraft It Up Challenge Blog. This month, the challenge was to create a layout that was either Monochromatic, Shabby/Vintage Style, or Minamalistic.
I couldn't make up my mind, so I did all 3 - this layout is about my journey with anxiety, and how I need to do my self talk to improve....

I've used a mixture of Pink Paislee Butterfly Garden and Prima Reflections.
TFL!!

Get Picky Challenge

2011-10-13T12:48:00.000+10:00

For the first challenge this month at Get Picky, the challenge was to use the word "Celebrate" as inspiration.I did this layout:

These photos were taken on Christmas Day 2010 - and I couldn't resist the title because my cheeky little monkey of a son looks like quite the imp....hehe...
Had oodles of fun making flowers, punching borders, doilies and leaves and even did some stamping - something I got for inspiration from the talented Trudi Harrison here on Anna's Craft Cupboard's blog.

Really loved doing this challenge - it was great to get into Christmas scrapping again!!

Stuck? Sketches

2011-09-30T23:07:00.000+10:00

My final update for today is for the Stuck? Sketch Challenge Blog.
This is the sketch for September 1st:

And this is what I did with it:

Just a layout about Connor's race at this year's school Sports Day - I was so happy I could go, just loved being a part of the day :) I used Echo Park "Happy Days" range....love the bright colours, don't you?

Next, was the 15th September sketch:

This is my take on it, using Echo Park...again..lol "Splash" range.

Well, that's it from me, time for this little black duck to get to bed - it's waaayyy past my bedtime.
Looking forward to seeing a new months lot of challenges tomorrow - are you??
Thanks for popping by.
Cheers!

White With One

2011-09-30T19:11:00.000+10:00

This month's White With One challenge was to use pale pink and journalling on the photos....
Not one I would normally go for, being mainly a boy scrapper - hehe.
I do, however, adore pink in any shades, and I'd just found some photos I took at a wedding of a very close friend of mine - I also had some beautiful MME Lost and Found 2 papers that I needed an excuse to use - hehe...
This is what I came up with - like I said, very very PINK!! I love it!!

The quote on the photo is one of my favourite ever - from the letter of St Paul to the Corinthians. I actually love the whole verse - always brings little pricks of tears to my eyes....
I used some tulle on the layout as well - loving tulle/organza bows at the moment.... and I thought the tulle went well with the photo.
Here is a close up - the chippy doily is a Dusty Attic - which I paint, and then put on some Glimmer Glam.

September Kraft It Up

2011-09-30T18:58:00.000+10:00

Well this month's Kraft it Up was a goodie - to use fabric and stitching, as well as the Kraft cardstock background.
Here is my entry - I used denim scalloped border and circle, and blanket stitched around them.
I have used Crate Paper's Random range - which is just so yummy, and at first look seems quite girly, but there is plenty of boy goodness there too.

Here is a close up of the top cluster - also the stitching and denim. I also sprayed some doily borders with the Studio Calico Huey's mist.

Thanks for the fabulous challenge ladies at Kraft It Up, I thoroughly enjoyed playing with this.
TFL!!

Get Picky

2011-09-30T07:22:00.000+10:00

This challenge for Get Picky was a sketch challenge. I have, however, just realised that I should have uploaded my entry by yesterday - ooopppss....
Oh, well - never mind. I actually had it ready yesterday, but because I was in Bundy, I couldn't upload...
Anyway, here is the sketch given:

This is what I did with it, using Pink Paislee Nantucket - it is a gorgeous range.
I love all the bits and pieces that comes with it too.... I also used some muslin, corrugated card, paint and shells - just wanted to give a lovely rustic beachy feel.

Here are some close ups:

I used some glossy accents on the crab to make it look like a shiny shell - if you know what I mean...
That's it for me for now - I have done heaps of challenges while I've been away, so I'll be doing lots of uploading today...
Cheers, and thank you for popping by my blog:)

My Mind's Eye Sketch Challenge

2011-09-21T22:22:00.000+10:00

I love participating in the My Mind's Eye Sketch Challenge over on their blog. Somehow, I always get mixed up with the dates and don't seem to pop them up in time ...my bad..lol...
This month though, I made sure I did it in time to share.
We were given this sketch:

With the added theme of "Back to"
This is what I created:

A layout about our regular visits to the little trains at a local park. I'm not sure who enjoys it the most - Connor or Mark...lol...
As you can see I've also gone back to one of my all time favourite ranges - MME Lost and Found Two You are My Sunshine Range... Love love love the gorgeous golds, yellows and blacks... It is a stunning range, and as you know, I've used it frequently...hahahaha!!
The only "non MME" products on this layout are the paint (Tim Holtz Daubers) Stamp (Tim Holtz) Prima ribbon edging on the circle, and the American Craft Alphas.
Thanks for popping by my blog - don't forget to leave some comments...I love to hear from you all...
TFL!!

Passion 4 Fashion at Scrapboutique

2011-09-18T23:20:00.000+10:00

I am playing along at Scrapboutique's Passion for Fashion competion. This week we had to use the Dramatic Fashion Style....
It all seemed too tricky for me, I really wasn't sure how to represent this style.

DRAMATIC (or Theatrical)- This style creates a glamorous and glitzy impact.

Colour- Strong, vivid, and contrasting (black is a favorite color).
Lines - Severe, sharp and usually asymmetrical. Bold and often overwhelmingly fitted with open slits.
Textures - Rare and trendy.
Effects - Confident, chic, sexy and catchy.
Needs of Customer - makes a statement, garments made or altered to fit.
Favourite Accessory - Bold statement usually metallic (gold, silver, bronzes, etc).
Note: Notice the fit, its impact and its open slits. Sometimes open back design or see-through materials are used. You'll know when you see one.

I also took a leaf out of Sonia Thomason's book and googled this picture, which I thought could provide some inspiration.

So, I created this layout:

OK, so black is a prominant feature in my layout, I slit open the paper to reveal the paper underneath.
Made a silver frame out of 2 Crafty chipboard, painted in silver paint. Also used some organze to tie a bow, and used it as a feature of the embie cluster.
I've used the new Pink Paislee Vintage Vogue range - very striking colours in that range, just love it!
Thanks for stopping by my blog :)

RUOK???

2011-09-16T16:59:00.003+10:00

I will never forget the day 25 March 2000. It was the day my whole world as I knew it came crashing down.
It started out normally enough. It was a Saturday, and council elections were on in Mt Isa, where I lived. I was working at the electoral booth at my school. I had to go there early and open up, and prepare the voting booths etc....anyway, everything was going along smoothly until about 1.00, when I received the phone call. It was my the boyfriend, who later became my husband, Mark.
"Hun, you have to come home. Now." I was starting to make excuses when he said, "I have something to tell you, and I have to tell you in person. Come home, NOW"
So I organised a replacement and drove the 10 minutes home, horrible thoughts going through me mind. My grandfather had been sick, so naturally I thought it was bad news about him....
But it was worse, much much worse.
Mark waited until I was inside, before he hugged me tight, I was bracing myself with news about Pa. Then he said. "It's Nathan, he has passed away" I let out the most gut wrenching wail, and I remember feeling my legs crumbling underneath me, Mark supported my weight. I had so many questions, which all came babbling out. Then I got the message.

Suicide. My brother had hung himself. He was 28.

My thoughts raced to my parents...how would they be feeling now??? I phoned them, and spoke to Mum, she was still sobbing quietly. She had been out shopping when Dad found him. She had come home to find ambulances parked in the driveway and knew. She had just known. I spoke to Dad, he was doing the typical male thing of hiding his emotions, but his voice just sounded so hard, so hollow.
I had to be with them. As soon as possible. A plane flight to Brisbane was arranged, then a train trip to Bundaberg. I left the first thing the next morning. Everything just felt so surreal, so unbeleivable. Mark stayed because he was just starting a new job, and he also had to look after our dogs. During the whole trip, I couldn't help but replay what was to be the last conversation my brother and I had had. We were travelling to the Gold Coast from Ipswich. He was talking about how down he was, how he just couldn't get his life back on track....he said "Nique, I sometimes think about killing myself" I was taken aback, but not that worried, I said something like - Oh, Nathan, please don't think that way, think of your gorgoeus chidren who need you, think about what it would do to Mum and Dad..... I so wish, to this day, I had done more, I had said more, if I somehow could have know the "right" thing to say to get him help. But I didn't, and the guilt still racks me.
I didn't get to Bundaberg until night, but both Mum and Dad were waiting for me on the station.
We hugged each other tight and all started sobbing. After a while, we left and went back to the motel Mum and Dad owned at the time.
Over a cuppa, we talked and talked until late, I had so many questions, but I also knew they probably didn't even have the answers. He had done it through the night, after a particularly ugly row with Mum and Dad. He wanted money for drugs, they wouldn't give it to him. We were very very sad, but we weren't really surprised.
Nathan had been troubled for a long long time. He had taken a heap of Dad's anti depression medication at 15. He went through the charcoal treatment, got assessed by a mental health professional, and somehow managed to convince them that he was fine, he was just "attention seeking" and he was sent home after a couple of days. Mum and Dad didn't want to let everyone know what had happened, so it was decided the official line would be that Nathan had had an asthma attack. But nothing went back to normal, Nathan's behaviour was erratic, he quit school, left home at 16, moved back, left again.....drank way too much frequently..... I didn't realise it then, but I do now, that all this was a symptom of severe depression....Then at 19, just weeks before my first wedding, he did it again. He was living in a flat next door with his girlfriend and we thought he was starting to get himself together....I'm not sure what he took this time, I just know he washed it down with a heap of alcohol this time....it was worse, much much worse, and he was in ICU for 3 days - in an induced coma......still, no-one in the mental health system thought it was worth keeping him in hospital to get treatment....the mental health system has an awful lot to answer for, if you ask me. No counselling for our family which by now was unravelling at great speed. This time at least, Mum and Dad let everyone know what happened - I think it was an attempt to get as much help as they could, for Nathan, as well as themselves.
About 6 months later, Nathan revealed to me he was suffering with an addiction to Speed. He showed me the needle marks on his arms, and begged for help, and also begged for me not to tell Mum and Dad. I rang the appropriate people, but they all told me that Mum and Dad would have to be in the process to get him hospitalised for treatment. I convinced him to tell them, which to his credit he did. He was hospitalised at the Royal Brisbane Drugs and Alcohol unit. He spent 2 weeks there. About the same time I went to a seminar about the "new" disorder called ADHD...OMG the symptoms were Nathan, Nathan as a child, and as an adult... Then the professor in charge of the RBH unit phoned Mum, he asked to speak to her in a meeting. He asked about all sorts of things - Nathan's schooling, Nathan as a child, what he was like orgainising himself, could he keep a job..(he couldn't)...finally he told Mum he beleived Nathan had ADHD - because Nathan's reaction to Speed was the total opposite of what it should be. You see, Ritalin is a pure form of Speed...and Nathan was in fact self medicating.... His self esteem was so low, and his depression was so bad he was willing to do anything to feel "normal."
Anyway, Nathan was discharged, and he was put on Ritalin, but that was just way way too hard - Nathan was an addict, and he kept taking more Ritalin than he should. Mum and Dad would hide it, and he would rip the house apart looking for it, physically abuse Mum and Dad to get it......it was a very ugly scene, and Mum and Dad tried so hard to help him, they gave him so much, supported him so much.....but Nathan stayed addicted to Speed right up until his death 5 years later..... This was so far away from the sweet, quiet, loving boy I grew up with... Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Ritalin, my own son is now on it, as he has been diagnosed with ADHD - and I have to say, when used properly, on someone diagnosed early, it is very effective in allowing Connor to concentrate and stay focussed at school.
The crunch came March 24 2000 - there was a particularly bad scene which involved violence, and Mum calling the police. Everything eventually calmed down - or so they thought, and everyone went to bed. It is thought Nathan hung himself sometime between 1 and 5 am. Dad found him at 11am. By then it was much much too late....
The following week would be one of the hardest to bear in my life. The funeral, the wake - Mum had way way to much to drink and just started sobbing and wailing - I will never forget those gut wrenching sobs, but it wasn't until I had my own child years later that I truely understand her pain.

It wasn't just that week though, the nightmare is ongoing. Both Mum and Dad have suffered terribly, I think there was just so much anger and pain there, their relationship crumbled, and they very nearly divorced. They lost nearly everything - all of Dad's super, the motel business, both houses they owned......Fortunately they have now worked through the problems. They are both still getting treated for depression, and with the help of kind, generous, sympathetic and loyal friends and family they have their lives back on track. For me, the pain is still there. I have been suffering anxiety and depression for years, and I believe this was one impetus for my illness. There is still an empty hole at family gatherings, and I have sadly lost touch with some of my nephews and nieces. Thankfully, we have connected with Nathan's first child, Nick. I know he brings Mum and Dad so much joy, and the resemblence he has to his father is just uncanny. I truely value his place in our family.

It's been 11 and a half years, and I have never fully recounted this story to anybody, only bits and peices to close friends - and it as taken a long long time to write this, many tears have been shed, believe me. I apologise for the long post, but I felt the whole story needed to be told. I wanted to paint the ugly scene of pain for the people left behind. It is a living nightmare.
If you are contemplating suicide - Please, reach out for help. Ask someone to go with you to a hospital, a doctor...seek the help you deserve.
Your family love you more than you will ever know. I know you are not going to think about it, but please, consider them.
The are not better off without you - the anger, grief, remorse and guilt they will feel will eat away at them and impact on every aspect of their lives - for always. They won't get over it. Ever. I know.
xx

Get Picky

2011-09-13T21:39:00.000+10:00

I decided to play along with the challenge at Get Picky this week - I've been lurking there for a while, and just love the challenges and what the creative team do - and finally decided to give it a go!
We had to use this picture as inspiration:

This is what I came up with - using MME Lost and Found 2 "Sunshine" range. I adore this range, and have used it to create several layouts already - so look out for more from me using it, because I love love LOVE it...lol

Decided to tie a big organza bow on this layout - I love how it turned out - think I will use it more, just love the effect...
Anyway, I am going to go to bed early....off now,
Bye!!

Guest DT Spot at Scrapbook Savvy

2011-08-30T18:20:00.000+10:00

I was absolutely thrilled to discover the other week that I had won a Guest DT spot at Scrapbook Savvy. Part of the prize was this fabulous kit.
It is gorgeous, with Authentique and My Mind's Eye papers, cardstock, and choc full of yummy embellishments. I loved playing with it, and used just about all of it making these 3 layouts.

Since this layout was for a wedding photo, I added a bit more glimmer with some really old Prima product from my stash. Have been trying hard to use up my stash, and this gorgeous paper was just screaming for some Prima...lol... Also addes some Kaisercraft flowers, but the scrunched flowers I made from paper scraps from the kit - and my Tattered Florals Die....

Everything on this layout is from the kit, except the brown buttons.

And this one was also entirely made from product from the kit - except for the spotty button.

I know I've said it before, but thank you so much Sar, I absolutely loved this kit, and thoroughly enjoyed playing with it.
The We're Savvy kits are all sold out now, but keep them in mind for future months - they are awesome value for $25 and are ALWAYS awesome!
If you want, I think there are still 3 She's Savvy kits left in the store, and I couldn't resist - I got one to play with....it is beautiful too, also full of Authentique and MME and beautiful embies....think i might have a play with it tonight actually...lol...
Thanks for popping by :)

Playing at Chookscraps

2011-08-28T09:05:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone, sorry I've been a slack blogger, I've been scrapping, but because I am on new medication, I have to go to bed early, otherwise I am a zombie the next day, so not much is getting done really.... Last weekend there was a Cybercrop over at Chookscraps. I managed to get two challenges done - just not on time, haha.
This was Challenge 1 - had to have a heart/club/diamond/spade on the layout, a number in the title, at least 2 flowers....

This is what I did for Challenge 2 - I had to use at least 50 per cent black and white, 5 of something, the word "Nothing" somewhere in the title or journalling...
Used some Basic Grey Out of print..such a gorgeous range..."sigh"

Finally I have been playing along in the Amazing Chook Race. Round 11 saw us visiting Vietnam. We had to use Red and Yellow - at least 75 per cent, and base our layout on a sketch provided.
This is what I did - used the gorgeous Echo Park Happy Days paper - and yes, couldn't help the song playing over and over in my head...lol...

That's it for me at the moment, it's a beautiful rainy day here, so I plan on spending the day scrapping - and I'm playing with the gorgeous We're Savvy kit over at Scrapbook Savvy - I am lucky enough to be the Guest DT member over there this month and I got this beautiful kit to play with. It's sold out now, but be sure to keep an eye on the kits at this store - they are always outstanding, full of gorgeous new products, and such good value..They are out in the middle of each month ;)

End of Month Bits and Pieces

2011-08-01T13:13:00.000+10:00

Well, this was a good month for me scrapping wise - I managed to get a lot of challenges done, and I've just spent some time over lunch browsing the challenge blogs and organising myself for August.
Just to finish things off, this morning I did the 2 Inspired Blueprint sketches.
This was the July 1st sketch:

This is what I came up with:

This is Blueprint #77

Here is my sample - as you can see, I used stars instead of hearts, just scrapping some old photos of Connor - which is good, finally catching ups.

Finally, here is my sample for this week's Colour Room Challenge.
It was to use the colours from this room:

Here is my layout - about Connor's love of guinea pigs, photo was taken at last year's Mackay Show.

My Visit To Germany

2011-07-31T07:39:00.000+10:00

I have been playing along in the Amazing Chook Race, over at Chookscraps.
This layout was for Round 9 - Europe. I chose to go to Germany.... I love Germany, and hope very much to get there one day...
Anyway, since I picked to visit Germany, I had to use 3 colours, 1 large photo, and feature clocks/cogs on my layout.
This is what I did - using some Theresa Collins paper, I used a clock transparency, and a fabulous Steampunk chippy.....

Layout was about Connor and his gorgeous gappy grin - which he may not have for much longer, as he has his first ever loose tooth, which will probably fall out today and tomorrow....especially if he helps it along...haha!!
My little baby boy is growing to fast...... "sigh"....
Thanks for popping by!!

Savvy Cybercrop

2011-07-29T13:30:00.000+10:00

The other cybercrop I've been involved in this week is the one at Scrapbook Savvy
It was a "Get your Mojo Moving" cybercrop - and it sure got my mojo flowing - lol....

The first challenge I did was Anthea's.
It was to use this Pagemaps sketch:

This is what I came up with:

Used some old photos of Connor doing his "Coolest Dude Ever" impersonations, and my favourite range ever - October Afternoon Rocket Age....
Then there was the lovely Sara's challenge, it was a colour challenge - you had to use the colours frome this picture:

I have to say, the colours in this picture were right up my ally - I am loving using brights at the moments. I did this layout of Connor in the pool at Dolphin Heads resort - our summer hang-out..lol...lucky us....

Then there was Kerryn's challenge - a puzzle challenge. This was the challenge I found most challenging, IYKWIM.... We had to include these elements in our layout:

This is what I did. I used a photo of Connor playing on this awesome playground in Bathurst. I used Basic Grey Oxford range - which I love, and lots of bits and pieces from "A Lil Somethin'"

Finally, there was Renee's challenge - all we had to do was include stitching on our layout, which is pretty easy for me as I include stitching on just about everything I do anyway...lol...
This is the layout I did - I used this sweet as photo of Connor - aged about 3, on his first set of wheels - a little red tricycle his Nanny and Papa bought him.

I used Crate Paper Toy Box for this layout - another of my favourite ranges, sadly, I've just about run out of this one - oh, well - I've done about 4 layouts from what I bought, so at least I got my money's worth...
As you can see, I have been playing around a lot with Adobe Lightroom - I am loving playing with this - and I'm enjoying experimenting with the colours and lighting of my photos......
Thanks for popping by my blog :)

Cybercrop at Chookscraps

2011-07-28T22:15:00.000+10:00

Been keeping myself very busy participating in Cybercrops this week. These were the layouts I did for the Chookscraps Cybercrop.
The person of interest this CC was Sandra Bullock.
This layout was for challenge 3 - had to show a picture of "booty," diagonal lines, pearls and stickers.

This is for the 2nd Challenge - Had to use lots of distressing, rumpling and tearing, stamping.... I really enjoyed creating this layout - lots of fun......

Finally - this is for challenge number 1

My Mind's Eye Sketch Challenge

2011-07-25T16:43:00.000+10:00

Today I have been working on Sketch Challenge 25 on the My Mind's Eye Blog. The challenge was to use this Sketch by Anam Stubbington, and the word "Celebrate" in honour of their 2nd birthday.

This is what I came up with - photos are of Connor New Year's Eve 2010 - his first introduction to Sparklers...which, after initial hesitation, he absolutely loved.

Thank you for all your wonderful comments - I absolutely love reading all of them:)

Stuck Sketch Challenges

2011-07-24T23:23:00.001+10:00

I have even had time to do the fabulous challenges over at the Stuck sketch Challenge site. I love that site - and always mean to do the challenges, sadly never seem to have time - but this month it seems the mojo is flowing quite well - so I'm just going with it haha!

This is the layout I did for the July 1st Sketch.....
Used gorgeous Fancy Pants Beach Bum range - just love that range, and it's perfect for doing beachy pages:)

This layout was for the July 15th Sketch - used some more gorgeous Bo Bunny Barefoot and Bliss - another go-to range for me at the moment, as I seem to be scrapping quite a few of Connor's beach days.....

Thanks for stopping by my blog :)

Last But Not Least.....

2011-07-17T11:06:00.000+10:00

Is my Kraft It Up Entry. The challenge is to use this image as inspiration:

Here is the layout I created. I used the colours in the picture as inspiration, as well as using the work "Cupcake" in my title....

used the delicious Prima Madeleine range - and lots of othere Prima Goodness, as well as the obligatory Kaisercraft flowers, which I just can't seem to live with out lately... I punched the border using a Martha Stewart around the page set, pity I mucked it up, but Oh well...
Can you believe the new CHA is around the corner....and as usualy I seem to still have stacks left from last CHA.... better get scrapping so I can justify buying more!!!
I've finished uploading my entries now, so I'll be back in a couple of days with a few new sharseys..
Happy Scrapping peeps!!

140 Posts now......

2011-07-17T10:51:00.001+10:00

Oh my goodness, this is post number 140...... even with being slack for a while there, it's still some sort of record for me!!
As I said, I also did the Kraft It Up and the White With One Challenges too... this is the White With One entry. The challenge was to use White as a base with Aqua/Teal +Chipboard.
This is what I came up with:

I tried to emulate the style of the gorgeous Stacey Young's work - I am in awe of her ability to use colour, texture and multimedia in her layouts. They are always amazing. Don't think I quite pulled it off - will have to practise that style a bit more, I think....it is lots of fun getting messy - I painted and sprayed glimmermist to my heart's content...lol.... The chippy I used was the chain fence and the little chippy butterflies as well.....
Thanks for having a peek and my work!!

Scrap The Boys

2011-07-17T10:33:00.001+10:00

As I've mentioned before, I seem to be on a scrappy roll of late - probably because the housework and yardwork are much neglected, LOL...
This is the layout I've done for this month's Scrap the Boys challenge - the challenge was to use tape and the word "play."
Loved doing this challenge - I used a photo taken of Connor this summer at the water park - face smeared with suncream and all...haha!
I've used Bo Bunny's Barefoot and Bliss range - I love love love the colours in this range - I'm just loving brights at the moment.

Righto, well, I'll be back later with some more shares - I've also done the Kraft it Up and the White with One challenges too....
Thanks for popping by!!!

Pottering Along

2011-07-14T12:45:00.000+10:00

I've been having a lovely scrappy time of late, just pottering along, doing my own thing....doing challenges, sometimes doing a "just for fun" layout....I am really enjoying the break from work, the relaxing has really helped me clear away cobwebs, and for a while some little glimpses of the real "me" come out..which is nice, first time in years actually.
As I said, I am making my way through my challenge list at quite a good pace for a change. This one is for the sketch challenge over at Anna's Craft Cupboard. The sketch was created by the very talented sketch maestro Wendy Smith.

This next layout was for Sar's Random Kit Challenge over at Scrapbook Savvy. The challenge was to use a WOW chipboard, 3 Cabouchens, a doodled border, and some twine in a double thread bow.
This is what I came up with - using the "He's Savvy" kit. I adore this kit, just love the colours...and this photo is one of my faves too.....

Finally this layout was "just for fun." I used some gorgeous Echo Park Dots and Stripes and Jillibean Watermelon Gazpacho papers.. with a few "A Lil Somethins" thrown in too....
Seem to be going through a real love of brights over the last few weeks....not hard when there is so much yummy product in bright colours going around...

Oh, well, that's it from me at the minute... Don't forget to leave some love - I adore reading your lovely comments:)

Seem to be on a Roll....

2011-07-08T18:40:00.000+10:00

Scrapping wise, at least - I created this layout because I was just so inspired by the new Basic Grey range, Oxford..love the colours, and patterns - just perfect for masculine and school layouts! I actually stenciled the Harlequin pattern on the lighter paper, to match the maroon and gold paper....I had a Crafter's Workshop Template to do it....I just love this photo of Connor - such a cheeky grin, and so him!!

I did this layout using a photo of my step-niece's Babies...they are gorgeous children - and the girl looks so much like Bianca did at that age, it's scarey. I used Bo Bunny's Gabrielle range - and some gorgeous Prima and Kaisercraft flowers, and some Prima Bling....I used last week's Colour Room challenge as inspiration - but couldn't upload it to their gallery, sadly:(

I have also made an early start on challenges - lol - this one I did for Scrapbook Savvy's July Sketch challenge - it is an awesome sketch, and I've used the gorgeous October Afternoon Rocket Age range - and it's fast becomming an all time fave, I can tell you!! Haha! How many times do I say that???

Thanks for popping by my blog - don't forget to leave a comment, I love reading them:)
I won't be posting much in the next few days - I am getting things ready to have my first stall at the Troppo markets Mackay - selling handmade embellishment, canvases, ready-made pages and kits.... trying to get rid of my considerable stash in a profitable way - haha!

Cheers.

A Little Late, I know....

2011-07-05T00:07:00.000+10:00

To enter the June Scrap The Boys....but this is what I did for it.
The challenge was to use Teal, Red, Yellow and White - I just love using brights, so I jumped at the chance. I used a firm favourite - Echo Park Paper Company..they do brights soooo well.
I made the little banner at the bottome of the photo - and made the sun from some scrap paper as well. Connor really is my little ray of sunshine in the day, he is such a bright, happy little personality - even though, at times I would love him to not be so, ummmm noisy - I love having him around while he's on school holidays, and I'm enjoying spending special time with him.
Love you, little man!!!

Scrappy Goodness From Scrapbook Savvy

2011-07-03T09:26:00.000+10:00

This month, I have been lucky enough to be Guest Designer over at Scrapbook Savvy. Sar sent me the truely stunning We're Savvy kit to play with.
It is absoulutely beautiful - full of gorgeous Vintagey - Inspired Goodness. The Papers are from the NEW range of Cosmo Cricket - Odds and Ends, plus some sweet cabouchens, and Martha Stewart doilies...
This layout would have to be one of my favourites from this year - I just love it. The photo is of my Mum and her big sis, Elaine. I handmade all the flowers, and added a few leaves and pearls from my stash.

With this one, I stuck with a Vintage feel - but added a few masculine touches - I wanted to continue the them of old-fashioned games, so I made a little kite from the papers and twine in the kit. The buttons came from my stash.

I love the whimsical feel of this photo - which I altered in Lightroom - so I did something I don't usually do, and added flowers to Connor's layout. I handmade some paper roses, and also made flowers using a scallop punch, Scallop punch flowers are gorgeous - turn out looking very Priam - ish - I just love them!!
I also added some lace and some Kaisercraft flowers from my stash. The butterflies were punched out of scrap bit of paper from the kit.

Well, that's it from my - hope I've inspired you!
If you would like a stepxstep posted for the scallop flowers, let me know in your comments, and I'll post one.
Cheers - Happy Scrapping!

Oh My Goodness.....

2011-06-25T18:52:00.000+10:00

I have been so very very slack in blogland - I do apologise. Truthfully, I've been rather tied up on facebook that actually popping things on my blog - I will endeavour to amend this situation.

Just last week I played along in the Handmade Cybercrop at Scrapbook Savvy.

This was Anthea's challenge - we had to make 7 Handmade flowers.......mty layout has 8 so I hope the criterea was at least 7 flowers - LOL!

I altered this photo in Lightroom, which is a whole heap of fun to play with, pity my free subscription ended - simply must add that to my wishlist...tehe... I used Pink Paislee paper, and hand made all the paper flowers - must say, I love the larger ones...I used a scallop circle punch, and it is so easy to do.....

Renee's challenge was to make a banner. I scrapped this photo of Connor at last year's Mackay show.... having his first bight of fairy floss. It was at the Sugar Cane pavillion, and it was just so melt in the mouth. I made this banner using ribbon and paper from the OA 5$Dime collection - man I love that range.....

This is the layout I did for Sara's challenge - to make a mask and use it.... I had previously made this mask from chippy stars for a layout not long ago, so I reused it for this one...... Photo of Connor on Australia Day this year, using Bo Bunny Block Party range. I've had this range for so long, and I've just started using it. I am making a real effort to either use up or pass on old scrapping stuff - just sick of mess all around me IYKWIM...anyway I loved this range - especially the colours - so much there was no way I was going to pass this one on, so I've made an effort to use it up...lol..

I have also been away at my very first Retreat. Organised by the lovely Tracey from Magical Memories, it was such a wonderful time away - I had a fantastic time, and just loved everything about it...I even scrapped haha!!

This layout I started - here you'll see I've used the same range and maskas the above layout.....

I don't often scrap layouts of myself - but this is one of me as a little girl. I have used some gorgoeus Webster's paper, and Prima and Kaisercraft flowers - the little fence is a Dusty Attic one.... Just Inked and Embossed with Tim Holtz goodies....

This is the first layout I did at the retreat - still not sure about it...photo is of Connor on this gorgeous old Sugar Cane steam train in Bundaberg....at the Botanical gardenes...although he has other interests now, he still loves trains......

October Afternoon Sketch Challenge

2011-05-02T10:30:00.004+10:00

I managed to get October Afternoon's Sketch challenge done last night - used their Seaside range, which is a beautiful range - and a couple of other bits n pieces - etsy finds!

Just Pottering Around......

2011-05-01T09:20:00.003+10:00

Last weekend was a huge one for Cybercrops - Scrapboutique had a fantastic cybercrop running, and I did this layout for the fabulous Sketch challenge set by the lovely Sonia, using a sketch by Anam Stubbington. I am quickly joining the Echo Park fanclub by the way - just love the bright colours in their ranges.

Chels ran a fabulous Roast too - and this is the layout I did, somehow I had REAL problems following the instructions - must be the teacher in me - haha! I used a portrait photo instead of a landscape - D'oh instant problems there - haha! Also got left and right mixed up - double D'oh!!

Over at Chookscraps, my lovely friend Shara hit us with a surprise challenge - this was my take on it, we had to use pastel colours (gasp!!) an animal element, and at least 5 pieces of ribbon. I used Pink Paislee Daily Junke - I just love this range, the design of the papers is just so funky in a shabby, whimsical way.

Let's not forget the Amazing Chook Race I am currently participating in - this layout was done for the 2nd leg - New Zealand. We had to use Black Cardstock as a base, doodling and a bird as an element. I actually made the lollipop flowers myself, with Denim and scrap pps.

Last but not lease, this is my entry into the monthly sketch challenge at Anna's Craft Cupboard. The sketches are always done by the lovely and talented Wendy Smith. I love this layout - and I think these papers - Fancy Pants Beach Bum are going to be an all-time favourite!

Cybercrop at Chookscraps

2011-04-17T13:58:00.003+10:00

If you are looking for a fabulous, friendly forum to join in a fun-filled cybercrop, head over to Chookscraps. A Cybercrop is in progress this weekend - and the challenges are wonderful. Bingo is on tonight - so check it out!! This is the layout I did for Challenge 1 - have to use photos smaller than 6x4, stitching on the layout, distressing and alliteration in your title: This one was for Challenge 2 - we had to use brown and black somewhere, have an element partially hidden, a combinations of buttons, flowers and brads 7 times, and add something to your photo. Challenge 3 was a little tricky for me - as it is to scraplift one of my layouts - lol - so instead, I scraplifted this lovely layout of Shara's. Challenge 4 is a card challenge. You have to work from a sketch. This is the card I made as a sample: Finally, this is my layout I did for the DT challenge - yep, I am a Guest DTer there this month, and I must say, I am having an absolute ball!! The criteria were to use a black, white, pink, lime and orange colour scheme, 5 pieces of ribbon, doodling, and NO bling. This is what I did. The photo is of my adorable great-niece Eva. She is a divine little beauty, so it is so easy to scrap her!! Hehe!

Anyways, that's it from me - don't forget to check out the cybercrop at Chookscraps this weekend - all challenges are due in on Friday, so you still have heaps of time to do them!

Thanks for stopping by!

Scrap the Boys

2011-03-31T22:52:00.003+10:00

Scrap the Boys is back - Yay!! Love this challenge site - it is awesome!! This month, the challenge was to pick a moment in time and scrap about it, using the date/time as the title. I chose 7.30 pm - Connor's bedtime, I love this time - it's a time to snuggle and talk about his day, and to share something we both love - books..... Hope this moment can last forever....

Cybercrop Fun...

2011-03-26T15:06:00.002+10:00

I had a wonderful time last weekend playing along at Chook Scraps March Cybercrop.
This layout is one I did actually start for the cybercrop, but didn't quite get it finished in time to upload (D'oh). It is Connor and his little friend from another house in our Court. They have a wonderful little friendship, and I am really happy that he has found a little friend so close by:0)
I have used the new Basic Grey Hello Luscious range - and it really does live up to its title!!

I also used some Tim Holtz metal bits and pieces, which I altered with some Dabbers - my favourite paint at the moment!! Haha!!
If you think there is a common pattern of me using Tim Holtz bits and pieces, you're right - I am totally addicted to his products!! LOL!

This layout was for Challenge 1 - I used one of my all-time favourite photos, a vintage one of my Pa (Grandfather) at around age 18. I love vintage photos - and this one has always fascinated me, as it was taken in a well known area of my hometown, and if you look closely at the background, it really captures an era so well. I also happen to think Pa looks so dapper!! No wonder my Nanna fell in love with him, and stayed so devoted to him.... oh, the fact that he was a wonderful husband and provider probably helped too!

The next layout was for Challenge 3. I am TOTALLY in love with this range at the moment - Prima Botanical. I love the colours, and the Steampunk theme it has running through it allows me to carry boys layouts pretty well.
Here, I used lots of techniques - stitching, distressing, stamping and embossing. I sprayed the cogs with Glimmermist, then painted some Glimmer Glam on them......

Here is a close up of a flower I made. I love how it turned out, and will definately make more in the future.... I used an EK Success scallop punch, and once the flower was made, I coated the edges of the petals with glue, and dipped them in Twinklets Diamond Dust - I think it looks very "Primaish" don't you??

Ok, well I am now off to play in some Scrapbook Savvy Cybercrop challenges, and get things ready for their Blind Scrap tonight!
Cheers - don't forget to leave some love, I love reading your comments!

Yay - My Mojo is Back!!!

2011-03-01T19:06:00.004+10:00

Well, it seems after taking a short leave of absence, my mojo has returned - in the last week, I've managed to scrap 6 layouts - Yay!!!

This was the February Sketch Challenge at Anna's Craft Cupboard, done be the fabulously talented sketch master Wendy Smith:0)

I loved the February Boy Kit at Scrapbook Savvy - the greens, reds and neutrals really sparked my creative interest, hehe!

I did this layout during the Blind Scrap over at Scrapbook Savvy's Cybercrop last weekend.

It was Cybercrop time at Chookscraps last weekend too - and this was the layout I did for Challenge 1.... Pity I didn't get a chance to upload it in time... "roll eyes"

Finally, this is the layout I did for the Chookscraps Guest DT competition. Criteria was to use Handmade flowers, the colours green and black, string, and to feature negative space.

That's it for me at the moment - I may actually do even more scrapping later tonight - maybe make a start on this month's challenges... haha!

Cheers, please feel free to leave some scrappy love:0)

February Kraft It Up

2011-02-28T22:09:00.005+10:00

Well it's the end of the month, and that means it is challenge time - this is the layout I did for Kraft It Up.....

We had to use this colour combination:

I loved this combination - and this is what I came up with......

That's it for now - I'll come back tomorrow to share more;0)

Happy Birthday To My Little Man:0)

2011-02-26T08:20:00.003+10:00

One of the reasons I have been such a terribly slack blogger is that my little man had a birthday recently - just can't believe he is 6 already, and in Year One "sigh" where has the time gone?? I can remember thinking when he was a baby that 2011 was such a long time away, but I've blinked and it's here!!! Unbelievable.

Anyways, Connor is quite the little party planner - well, he informs me of his theme, and I do the rest - LOL! This year, he wanted a Dragon themed party - he loves the movie "How to Train Your Dragon" and I guess that's why he wanted it. This is the cake I made - Connor actually picked this out months ago, and said "oooohhh, Mummy, you could make this for my party!!"
Haha - and I did, honestly, I am such a sucker!!!!

Here we are at cake cutting time - see the face paing?? I actually decided to try my hand at face painting at the party, so the kids had a choice of dragon faces, or, for the girls, princess faces. Must admit, my efforts were a bit dodgy - thank goodness for some other mums who stepped in to help, because it also took longer than I thought - haha! Connor of course chose Toothless.... and promptly races around afterwards so half of it rubbed off.....

Well, that's about it from me for now - I'll be back, hopefully tomorrow, for some scrappy shares!!

Thanks for popping by!

My Bad......

2011-02-20T19:41:00.004+10:00

Hi Everyone,
I am so so sorry - I have been so slack. Don't really know what has got into me - the end of January brought the dreadful floods, and first my parents were badly affected in Bundaberg, then numerous friends and family were evacuated from their homes in Ipswich - I spent most of the end of January glued to a screen of some description, trying to find out if my family was OK...
Then it was the start of the new school year. Busy busy .... Then it was Connor's birthday - must upload some photos of that, actually - LOL!
Anyway, inbetween all of this, I did do a bit of scrapping - although I must admit I have been struggling with my mojo of late "sigh."
This layout was one I did of Connor and his teacher from his Prep year last year. He had a male teacher - which is really unusual in the early years, and I was so pleased Connor had the opportunity to be in his class. I like this layout, the vintagy/grungy style is one I am really liking at the moment.

This layout is one I actually started for the White With 1 Challenge in January - just didn't have the chance to get it finished.
I did make the effort to finish it - this is one of my favourite photos ever of Connor.
The challenge was to use White with Navy or Royal blue, and Banners. This is a bit different for me, I modge podged some tissue paper onto my base, then when that was dry, I stamped some white paint on with bubble wrap. Even made a Crepe paper ribbon - so not me, LOL!

This one was a "Just cos" layout - using some Basic Grey Hopscotch Paper, again, REALLY not the colours I usually use, but after some teeth gnashing and hair pulling out, I ended up being partially happy with the result - my biggest worry was working the patterns together - so I created this frame of the photos, and used some solid blue cardstock to break it up a bit... in the end, with a few added bits n pieces from my stash, I was a reasonably happy with the end result - not bad considering about half way through I was going to chuck it in the bin!! LOL!

Now this layout I love - one of my favourite ever, actually. Love this photo of Connor in the snow, and I used Fancy Pants Hot Chocolate papers for this, as well as some Prima doilies and ribbon, and the lace I cut with a Martha Stewart Punch - who doesn't love Martha's punches??haha I have soooo many now!! Finally, I created the snowflakes with my Cricut - they have actually come from 3 different cartridges, I just worked them all out on my Gypsey first, then cut them out - easy peasey!!

Well, that's about all from me - I will come back soon with some photo shares of Connor's party, and maybe even some more scrappy shares - I am trying to get some layouts done for Cybercrops on this weekend.

Till next time - don't forget to leave some scrappy love hehe!

Some Challenges

2011-01-06T21:52:00.004+10:00

I've made a nice early start on the challenges this month - hopefully I can keep it up through the year - LOL!!

This is the challenge over at the Colour Room this month:

This was my interpretation - I loved the colours in this layout, and they were perfect for these bright photos of Connor I took when he was playing on his slip and slide - on one of the few fine days we've had these holidays!!

This is my layout for the January Sketch Challenge over at Bon's

This one is my layout for the Sketch challenge over at Anna's Craft Cupboard:

Well, that's about it from me for now - about to get cracking on another layout - woohoo!! I am on a roll!!!

Happy Scrapping everyone!!

10 Favourtites from 2010

2011-01-03T22:16:00.008+10:00

Hi Everyone - 'tis me again. You can tell I'm on holidays, can't you - I 'm haunting blogland Teehee!

As promised, I am putting up my favourite scrappy moments from 2010.

I have consciously done this after my my favourite family moments because even though scrapping is my obsession, my family is my life - besides, without them, there'd be nothing to scrap, right?? LOL!!

Ok, well, first - this is my favourite photo I took this year, what a surprise it is of Connor. I took this in September at a pub in Bargara, Bundaberg. I like it because Connor is looking just so happy and relaxed. It also shows his personality so well - there is always an impish look about our son - he is so happy-go-lucky, and always ready for a game, or a joke or even just to play a trick. Yes, he is naughty at times, and sometimes needs his cheek pulled into line - but I love the fact he is so spirited and resilient. Funny thing is, I haven't scrapped it yet - hmmmm, must change that as soon as possible!!

Now, I have has some incredible highs in Scrapbooking this year, I was honoured to be selected to join the Addicted To Craft DT, Mel Heather asked me to be on the Kraft It Up Challenge Creative Team when it first started a year ago, and then THIS really made me smile:

No I wasn't made a Master this year - I didn't expect it either, but I did get TWO Honourable Mentions from the Masters Competition. I was absolutely stoked, because I am in awe of the talent of the New Masters, and I was in such unbelievable company getting honourable mentions, so I am quite proud of myself.

I got one HM for the Single Layout section - with this layout. This layout would be in my Top 10 for 2010 list, but I can't actually show it on it's on due to it being in the current issue of Scrapbooking Memories:0)

This is the other HM I got - for a double. I was so surprised that I got this HM due to the fact that I am so not good at doubles, and I have to be honest, I really didn't think this layout had what it takes...

I did it as a bit of a message to Connor - about how, since he is officially starting his learning this year, he must always remember that school isn't the only place and time you learn - sometimes life's lessons are the best teacher....

This year, I've found myself more willing to experiment with a variety of media to create my pages - a trend I've found is popular also amongst my scrappy friend. I am happiest playing with paints, inks, mists and fabrics to add texture and dimension to my pages. I've gone back to using texture paste, chipboard and some of the "older" style of scrapbooking embellishments, but I find I am using them in new ways. I am so excited to be part of such an evolving craft, and I love the enthusiasm for new ideas and techniques in the Scrapping community. I certainly hope to continue to develop my skills in this fabulous hobby.

Now, here are my Top 10 for 2010, in no particular order:

1. I did this layout for a challenge on the My Mind's Eye blog - MME are fast becomming one of my favourite manufacturer. I particularly loved this range - the black flocking on the Kraft was amazing.

2. This is one of my favourite all time photos, I am giving Connor a cuddle after his bath - and when I saw this Prima paper, I just had to use it to scrap it.

3. I remember having lots of fun with this layout - just loved using the fabric and the flower here - it was when I was just starting using a lot of fabric on my layouts.

4. This layout was done from a sketch by Wendy Smith for the Sketch challenge over at Anna's Craft Cupboard - it's of my Dad in about oh, Year 6. The range is from October Afternoon - and was one of my most used ranges this year, I just loved the colours and embies in this range.

5. This was one of the many, many snow holiday pictures I took - I am still working my way through them - haha. I went to town with the grunginess and technique here - embossed the cardstock, stamped, painted, glimmermisted, stitched - you name it, I did it!! Sometimes I just love having a "play." I have been really trying to use up some older bits and pieces this year - and this is someold WRMK Teenage Angst - with some old Prima Youth embellies.

5. Yet another snow photo - and again, did some distressing, glimermisting, painting - used masking too - also made the lollipops with denim and stamping - I used Fancy Pants Father and Son range - and again I love how all the bits game together to form a grungy, masculine layout which I hoped shows the love and admiration that Connor and his Dad share.

6. Yep, another MME range - this time it was the Meadowlark Range which Louisa from Addicted to Craft sent me to play with. This photo was one of those photos you take on the spur of the moment - Connor was actually at the time trying to muster up a pathetic face, because he was trying to get an ice block out of his grandparents - LOL - I love the black and white photo with the black and white paper, with just a touch of the MME Red Lush letters thrown in...

7. Once again, this was me using up some old papers and embies - this time the Rough and Tough range from Fancy Pants. I actually used a transparency on this layout - and adhered most of the elements of the page over it. Another experiment was the lifting of the middle photo on foam 3D dots - I think it worked will - what do you think??

8. I am soooo in love with these papers - Sass Lass, but I've forgotten the name of the range - my bad - all I know is I love using them with paint and lots of layering of fabric, doilies, pattern paper and ribbons to great an ultra shabby look. Really feminine for me - and a real change from my usually grungy look.

10. Finally, I instantly fell in love with the Earthy, yet bold colours of the Fancy Pants "Rusted Sun" range. This paper is absolutely gorgeous with its colours and designs, and was perfect for this photo, I thought. More distressing, inking, layering, oh, and another Transparency used in the title!!

So, if you are still reading this after my ultra long post (sorry 'bout that - I do tend to waffle a bit!) Thank you, hope you enjoyed my little "Show and Tell"

Cheers for now.

January Kraft It Up

2011-01-02T19:00:00.003+10:00

Sadly, this is my last month on the Kraft It Up Creative Team - the past 12 months have been an absolute delight and a pleasure working with such talented ladies.
I would like to thank Mel for asking me to join the team when she first started the Blog last year. I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my experience. On the upside, at least it means I can participate in the challenges.

This month the challenge is:

"To create a layout based on the theme Summer and you must also use the word Summer in your title, using Kraft cardstock as your base"

This is what I created:

I loved doing this layout - using October Afternoon papers. The stamp is Tim Holtz Ultimate Grunge stamp - just love Tim Holtz stamps, well, I just love anything Tim Holtz - LOL!

Till tomorrow - when I will do my Top 10 Favourites for 2010 - Don't forget to stop by the Kraft It Up Blog, and give the challenge a go - the prizes are awesome!!

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-01T14:36:00.005+10:00

Happy New Year!!!!

I hope that 2011 brings you all happiness and health:)

Do you have any New Years Resolutions?? I don't keep New Year Resolutions well - I tend to go off track by oh, about lunch on January First - LOL!!

I have goals and I love the idea of focussing on a word - picking a word for the year to focus on, and work toward achieving it. Last year my focus work was Balance - I needed to focus on adding balance to my life, juggling being a mummy, wife, teacher, scrapbooker.... it took time, and I am still working on it, but it has really helped me focus on what to do to acheive my goals.
Here is a little pic I got of Ali Edward's Blog

This year, my word is going to be:

Minimise

There are so many things in my life I want to minimise - my waistline, my kitchen cupboards, my scrap supply... I am such a hoarder, and I really just want to simplify my life:0)

Here is challenge: Think of a word you want to focus on this year - post it in in my comments box, and I'll draw a random RAK at the end of this week :0)

Now - a bit of a review of 2010.....

When I think about it, in the ordinary hum drum of life, I have so so much to be thankful for - a loving family, a happy, sweet, healthy little boy, a job I love, well most of the time anyway, and good friends.

THESE moments are the moments from this year that bring a smile to my face whenever I think of them -

It was such an honour to attend my Nanna's 90th birthday party. I am so lucky that I had all 4 of my grandparents until well into my 20s - I have so many beautiful memories of time spent with all of them. I hope Connor will be that lucky.... Anyway, now that I am 40, I have one Grandparent left - and that is my Nanna, she is amazing, so sharp - still does her own shopping, pays her bills.... I am amazed by her vitality

Watching Connor enjoy the snow for the first time, we didn't have a lot of money this year - Mark isn't working, and I have had time off due to illness, but we really wanted to do this - and it was so rewarding to work towards saving money, and then to enjoy the moment Connor first saw/felt snow - just so magic, and well worth the effort :0)

In November, Mark was lucky enough to win a trip to Geelong and Lorne - another dream of mine was to travel the Great Ocean Road, so it was a delightful surprise to get to do this in 2010 too. Here is Connor feeding a King Parrot at our resort in Lorne - these parrots just flew down to our tables while we were eating breakfast.

While we were in Geelong, Mark decided that it would be good for us to take a helicopter flight around Corio Bay - I have never been in a helicopter, and I must say I was petrified - but so so pleased that I did it, and conquered my fear instead of letting my fear of heights ruin my experiences of our holiday. It was so beautiful up there, too - and I think the highligt was spotting a pod of dolphins from the sky

What have your highlights of 2010 been?

Goodbye 2010....

2010-12-31T16:29:00.004+10:00

Wow - where on earth did this year go????

As a family, we did so much - went on two wonderful family holidays, Connor started his first year of school - well, Prep at least, and just a little bit of bad when I had a knee operation - Ouch!!

My thoughts tonight, though, are with my Mum and Dad - and the many many people of Queensland - who have gone through some of the worst flooding in history this week. Mum and Dad's place of work went under - and everything is still up in the air with that - the owners of the Van Park may decide to close the whole place down rather that rebuild, which would not be good for lots of people, but you have to do what you have to do I guess....

I'll do a "year in review" post tomorrow, but I thought I'd share some scrappiness first.

I actually got to participate in a Cyber Crop last week - shock horror - I actually had time!!

These are some challenges I did for Bon's Cybercrop.

This was for the "Scraplift Challenge" The layout lifted was Chantal's and this is what I came up with. Enjoyed this - loved using up some of my old chippy alphas...

This layout was for the DT challenge - which this time was opened to all .... bit of a twist in the tale really.

So hard for me to do small photos, and use negative space, but I did enjoy this - used some old BG Origins paper and some Prima Vines - any time I can use Prima, is a good time in my book! Haha!

Finally, I started this layout for the December KIU creative team reveal - the challenge was to use kraft as a base, and non-traditional scrapbook colours. As I said, I started it, but then things got REALLY hectic with report card writing, general Christmas preparations, and then my knee op, that I didn't get a chance to finish it - but here it is :0)

If you want to do this challenge, you have until midnight tonight to upload it:0)

Our Christmas Day

2010-12-26T23:15:00.003+10:00

This was our tree just after Santa visited on Christmas Eve :0)

This was our tree after the present unwrapping frenzy that Connor participated in:

(Oh, and yes - that is our dog Ace in the background!!)

Here he is - there is something wonderful about the excitement of children on Christmas day - I just love watching his excitement at discovering the presents, checking to make sure Santa got his snack, and the reindeer ate their oats and drank their water, then of course the unwrapping... sooooo magical!!

Long Time No See......

2010-12-21T10:18:00.003+10:00

Sorry I've been MIA folks - but there have been several good reasons:

1. The usual mad end of year rush - getting ready for Christmas, writing report cards, Connor's Christmas dos... etc etc...

2. I've had surgery on my knee recently - just and arthroscope to repair a torn cartledge, and I am no on the long, slow road to recovery. Really though, the best thing I can do for myself is lose weight and exercise, which I'll be on to right after Christmas;0)

3. I have had NO computer for six weeks - my lappy chucked a hissy fit, and I've had to get the mother board and the VGA repaired - mind you, it took 2 returns to work out what was wrong, and I still haven't got it back yet - just sneaking on to Mark's computer.....

4. We have also been away on holidays - and I didn't take any computers or anything with us - just hopped on computers in the hotel lobbies when I could grab a spare moment.

On a scrappy note, I HAVE been scrapping - just not sharing - LOL. I have made HEAPS of xmas cards, and some layouts - more to do today, too.

On the weekend, I participated in a cybercrop at Chookscraps I was introduced to this site by the lovely Shara and Ceci - and I must say, the forum is a delightful place to hang out :0)

This was the Photo I entered into the photo challenge - it was to take one of a wild animal. I just took this photo recently at Lorne in Victoria - these King Parrots just flew up and started eating crumbs on our table during a breakfast - Connor was just so delighted!!

Anyway, this was the card challenge - I am so not into cards, so I am going to enjoy doing cards for a change - really need to get my skills up in this area - LOL -

Challenge 3 was to scraplift a layout from the gallery with animals on it. I chose one of Ceci's layouts I loved the bright colours, and the way she layered the papers - I loved how this turned out, and will definately be using this design in the future:0)

Challenge 1 was to use the colours White, Black and Grey - with one other colour - I did a grungy layout - as you can see, I am STILL scrapping our snow holiday photos!! LOL!!

Got all our Great Ocean Road photos to scrap now too - guess it will keep me busy!! Haha!!

This was for Challenge 2 - We had to use Masking, One Photo, 3 Word Title, Glam/Glitter, Lace and Ink. I really loved how this turned out, too - this range is the Basic Grey Curio range, and it is devine - I actually have two more photos to scrap with this range, and I can't wait to get some time to do it!!

Well, that is about it for now - I do have some more things to share, but I haven't photographed them yet - and I would much rather do it with my computer, as then I can use Photoshop - I editted these in Paint, and I don't like the quality very much at all :0(

Cheers, and thank you for popping by - hope some of you are still coming, after such a long time between posts.........

New Kraft It Up Challenge

2010-11-01T23:01:00.003+10:00

Can't believe it is November already.... goodness gracious, this year has just disappeared!!

The November challenge has been put up on the Kraft It Up challenge Blog.

You must use Kraft as a base - as per usual - and include decorative edges. Think diecut papers and diecut borders - like the Sass Lass cut off strips - border punches, Tim Holtz Alteration Dies etc etc....

Here is my sample:

I have used Jenni Bowlin Diecut, some Basic Grey Diecuts, cut another decorative frame from some Sass Lass, a Sass Lass Cut off Edge, paper punched a note pad edge into some SL paper, and used a Tim Holtz Alterations Die to cut some Note Pads.

So, anyway - so wild with your border punches and dies - and just go for it!!

TeeHee!

Cheers for now:0)

Just Playin' Round

2010-10-26T12:50:00.003+10:00

I have been doing a "Just 'cos" layout - just HAD to use this boooootiful paper from Sassafras Lass - I love the textures and colours, so soft, pretty and feminine "sigh"

Here are some close ups - I used some doileys from the Chip Chop Shop - and also made some flower backings with my Tim Hotz Tattered Floral Die - using pattern paper. Also popped on some paper doilies, and edged the diecut with pattern paper - which I ruffled!!
Had so much fun playing with all this pretty stuff for a change!!

This is a challenge I did for the My Mind's Eye Challenge on their blog - had to use black, and the sketch provided. Unfortunately, I didn't get this done in time for the challenge - my bad - but I finished it because I was just so inspired, and loved working with the Haunted range!

Well, that's it from me - off to do some more scrapping, think I'll use some more Sass Lass!!

October Scrap the Boys

2010-10-20T06:39:00.003+10:00

Yay!!
I finally managed to do both challenges for Scrap the Boys - I love that challenge site, and always mean to do the challenges, but somehow never seem to manage it!!
Anyway the first challenge was to scrap a layout keeping to the theme "Trick or Treat"
This is Connor's trick - he pulls all these faces conveying "mood" in order to get something I've said no to. Sometimes it's this one, sometimes it's a sad, pathetic face complete with tears. Hope he learns it doesn't work soon, it does get tiresome dealing with it - but boy he is such a Drama Prince!!!!
Whilst I was scrapping this photo, Connor came up and said, "oooohhhhh, here I am being Mr Grumpy Bum!" I asked him why he was Mr Grumpy Bum. His reply?? "I wanted something......"
There you go!
Hence the title, and journalling....tehe, I figure it is one for the 21st wall!!

The Devil in the Details Challenge was to use material. I pleated some material to make the yellow ribbon, and made a denim and material lollipop flower to blend.
Connor loved this lollipop - when he saw it, he said "Mummy, that is the biggest lollipop in the world!!"

Thanks for popping by my blog, everyone - don't forget to leave a comment, I love reading them!

Meadowlark at Addicted to Craft

2010-10-13T21:28:00.003+10:00

I got a gorgeous pack of My Minds Eye Meadowlark papers from Luisa - the boss lady at Addicted to Craft.
Here is what I've created with them.
First, a grungy boy layout with my cheeky little monkey posing with his Dad's sunglasses!

Now a softer, shabbier style with a photo of Connor I took a couple of month's ago - I love this photo, he just looks so cute pulling this face, goodness knows what he is thinking - LOL!

This is a close up of the flowers I made - Yep, I've well adn truly caught the make your own flower bug!!

These are just punched circles, folded in half, and threaded together, arrange the petals and play with it a bit to form the shape - I just popped a brad in the middle to finish it off :0)

I adored this range - it is soooo versatile, definately going to have more of a play with what I've got left!!

Cheers..... Thanks for popping by!

Just scrappin'

2010-10-09T15:57:00.002+10:00

I did this layout for the 1st September Challenge for Scrap the Boys. Just didn't get a chance to upload it in time due to certain internet issues....grrrr.....
Ever since Connor was born, Mark has called him Dudley Doodlebug. Have no idea why, but it is kinda cute, and Connor still gets Dudley as a nickname....

This next layout I did for this month's 123 Challenge - Must use the word "Go", a handcut title, and the colour green.

This is a close up of the handcut title "Go" I used a Tim Holtz Grungeboard letters to trace around....as I thought the letters I tried to draw freehand were a bit gumbyish - LOL

Here is the layout - most of the stuff I used I got out of last month's Boy kit at Bon's.

I also managed to do last week's Colour Room challenge - I find this site a real challenge, the sketches are challenging for me in themselves, let alone also trying to get the colour combo right....But I guess that is what challenges are all about. Right?

Here is a close up of one of the flowers. It is a black Prima Flower, but I have used my new favourite toy - glimmer glam to paint on it. I love the gorgeous shimmer it gives things :0)

The other flowers are Webster's trim, and Maya Road. I adore the new release of Maya Road - so many gorgeous embies... yummo!

That's all I can share at the moment - I am off to do some more scrapping sooon - hope to get a sketch challenge done, and the first October Scrap the Boys challenge.

Thanks for visiting my blog.

Please leave comments:0)

October at Kraft It Up

2010-10-03T23:19:00.003+10:00

Can you believe it is a new month already? I can't - the year is just flying by - dare I say the "C" word????
At Kraft it up this month there is a sketch to work with - here is the sketch, and of course it is with a Kraft base :0)

Here is my sample - sorry for the bad pic, I was staying at Mum and Dad's time at the time, and I still haven't found a good spot to take photos of layouts yet- Hehe.
Still working through photos of our snow trip - this is of our cheeky boy enjoying a snowball fight!

I have a couple more shares, but I'll come back later - it's getting late, and it is time for me to hit the sack, I think!
Thanks for stopping by my blog!!
I love comments :0)

I've Been Busy Doing Challenges!

2010-09-24T09:58:00.004+10:00

This layout is for the second September Challenge at Scrap the Boys. Mark and Connor have a fantastic father/son relationship, and I love how it just doesn't all come from Connor - Mark idolises Connor too, which is lovely.

I made these lil denim embies by layering different denims, and using a Tim Holtz stamp on the small one. Love how they turned out....

I've also been participating in the Colour Room challenges. This was last weeks challenge - I was a bit put off at first with the colours and the sketch, but decided it WAS a challenge, after all. Anyway, I was pleased with the result.

I have used Fancy Pants "Happy Together" Papers - these papers are divine, and I intend to do more playing very soon!!

I also used some of the booootiful new Prima Branches, and sprayed some white flowers with Glimmermist to add the purple.

Well, that's it for me atm - I'll be back very soon with some shares, at least with the rainy weather we've been having, I've had a chance to do lots of scrapping!! LOL!!

Thanks for popping by my blog :0)

Playing With Fancy Pants

2010-09-20T21:32:00.003+10:00

Well, I DID try to get myself together to try out for the Fancy Pants Creative Team - but then Connor got sick for 3 days - very clingy and also vomitting, so washing filled my time... then I got sick with the same bug, and simply could not do anything else but laze around in bed.
Anyway, I'm kinda kicking myself, because I could have sent in any project with Fancy Pants, I have heaps of layouts with Fancy Pants - but I JUST wanted to do something especially - just that obsessive side of me I guess...
Anyways, I did this layout using the Rusted Sun Range, this range has the most awsome colours - rich earthy browns, as well as brights - and even MY nemissis Purple! Eeeeep!
LOVE this range - must use it more...LOL!

This layout is about my Mum and Dad and Connor - I really miss my Mum and Dad, and what I miss most is the cosiness - the idea that I can just pop around the corner and grab a cuppa....
Oh well, even if I stayed in Ipswich, I still wouldn't be able to do that - because not long after I left for Mt Isa, they moved to Bundaberg... Still - it would be nice to live in the same town as them....
Starting to catch the make your own flowers bug - these one I cut out using my Nestabilities, folded all the petals up to create some dimension, inked them and layered them with glue dots...

This was going to be my altered item - I altered a Maya Rd Letters tin, and made some cards to go in there - all out of Fancy Pants Roadshow..
I painted the tin with the Tim Holtz Dabbers - LOVE LOVE LOVE these - if you love using paint, you will too - you can use them on anything, they dry quickly, no mess to clean up, and then blend beautifully. Really recommend them if you haven't seen them yet.
Also handmade some flowers - just the accordian pleated ones, which can be a bit tricky, but I like the effect :0)

What Do You Think??

2010-09-19T16:36:00.004+10:00

Of the new look for my blog?? I'm not too sure about the header though, first time I have ever tried adding a photo using a different photo editing site, think I need to do a few more things, or add a new photo.....
Anyway, as promised, here is what I have been up to scrappy - wise lately.

This layout I did for a mini cyber crop at SNB a while back - I did a small tute on how to create embellishments like this snowmant out of texture paste.

Had so much fun playing with lots of different mediums on this layout, as you can see, I am still making my way through the photos I took on our recent holiday to the snow....

This is my sample for this month's challenge at Kraft It Up - just sent it in a month early - oooopsies......
Haha
Pop by the blog for the criteria if you haven't already done it, there are some fantastic prizes....

This layout was for a mini class during the last cybercrop at SnB a while back, I demonstrated how to make embies like this snowman using cardstock and texture paste...

This layout was a "Just Cos" layout - I used some of the gorgeous Theresa Collins Travel Ledger goodies, currently available at SnB.

Well, that's it from me for now, I have a small child nagging me to get on the 'puter - he loves this new program called Reading Eggs - put out by the ABC, and it is a really good reading - based website game. Cost $50 for 6 months, and we have already got our money's worth - after only 2 weeks! LOL! Ticks all the boxes for beneficial computer based teaching aids, and Connor loves it - can't complain when it is helping him learn to read!!

Thanks for popping by my blog - don't forget to comment!!

:0( My Little Man is Sick...

2010-09-13T11:34:00.004+10:00

How do I know he is sick? Aside from the fact that he is vomitting every couple of hours and not eating a thing -always a good sign :0p) -
- He is quiet, and if you knew my gregarious talk at a mile a minute son, you'd know that is soooo not him.

-He is still, my full of action race-around boy is actually happy to flop on his bed/the lounge and not move.... Poor little guy, I know he is VERY sick because hardly anything keeps him down for long, and he has been like this since about 5.00 yesterday afternoon....

On a brighter note, one of the reasons I have been MIA from blogging is that I went on a school camp - which was fun, just very VERY tiring, because as a teacher you are on duty for 24 hours every single day....

On the second day we were very lucky to go to Whitehaven Beach and Hamilton Island. How lucky are the kids in Mackay?? When I was a kid, we only ever took our school camps to Little Yabba Creek at Kenilworth, the best we got was to swim in - the freezing by the way - creek.

These kids get the Whitsundays!! Mind you, they couldn't swim, with all the safety forms to fill out, to take them swimming too would be a nightmare - and as for swimming in a creek, you'd better make darn certain there were no crocodiles, would be a bit difficult to explain to parents.....

Anyways, here are some photos, this is the beautiful Whitehaven Beach - one of the top 5 listed as the most beautiful beach in the world.... It's very easy to see why, it is just so pristine....

This is the chapel on Hamilton Island - very popular for weddings.....

This is the view from one of the resorts - not a bad life eh?

A view of the marina on Hamo - pick a multi million dollar yacht, any yacht......LOL!

Thanks for stopping by - I hope to get some scrappy goodness up in the next couple of days.

Cheers!!

Studio Calico at Addicted To Craft

2010-08-12T22:23:00.003+10:00

The Design Team Girls at Addicted to Craft have been sent some STUNNING papers from Studio Calico - I got to play with the Anthology range.

This manufacturer is awesome - I love the papers, the Fabric Rips, the journalling cards, stickers.... well, the whole lot, really - I am planning on getting myself some of their new range Documentary VERY soon.

Did I mention the colours are gorgeous? OK, enough cyber drooling from me - this is what I did with the goodies Luisa sent me.

I really went to town with the Fabric Rips on this layout - I layered them under the photo to give dimensione, and I also used them to make these lollipop flowers - kept is all together by stitching and adding the button.

Go and check out what the other DT girls did here.

Scrap The Boys

2010-08-01T00:15:00.003+10:00

Finally got July's Scrap the Boys challenge done - the challenge was to use a portrait of your boy and detail their likes/dislikes/quirks on the layout.

This is what I came up with - lately I have been trying to use some older papers I have - this is the WRMK teenage angst range - a great grungy range, but it also include some brights for a splash of colour!! I also used some epoxy stickers from the Prima Youth range - I told you I was trying to use up older stash!! LOL!

Pity I didn't get it done quick enough to play along - oh well, there is always next month - LOL!
Thanks for looking!!!!

Lollipops!

2010-07-25T14:25:00.007+10:00

I bought this lollipop at the Mackay Show, and I've had it hidden away until Connor finished with all the other goodies he got at the show. Needless to say, he was totally blown away with this lollipop. He said "Oh Mummy, this is the biggest lollipop I've ever seen!!!!"

I have also been having more of a play with the Fancy Pants Like Father Like Son Range - available at ScrapbooknBits
Here is a close up - had lots of fun using Glimmermist, Perfect Pearls, and Distress Ink and Stamps to create this tag and customise the element I cut out from the Like Father Like Son "Cards" paper.

Here is the layout - photos are of my cheeky little ratbag posing with a pair of his Dad's sunnies - such a little poser!!

Here is a layout done with the STUNNING Basic Grey Oliver Range - love love love this range - all the elements are available at ScrapbooknBits

Here's a close up - my new favourite bling is the Twinklets Diamond Dust - it does really thick, chunky glitter - and you can make those gorgeous sugared flowers with it - YUMMO!!!
I used it on the tree - it gave a really good covering, and made it look like the tree was covered with snow - a really nice effect!

SIA Layouts

2010-07-16T21:50:00.004+10:00

As part of the Addicted to Craft Design Team, I was honoured to produce 3 layouts to be part of the shop's display at SIA.

Luisa sent us the gorgeous packs, and we were left to create to our heart's content!

Finally I can share what I came up with:

This is using the gorgeous October Afternoon Report Card paper - This is the best paper for school photos - a gorgeous mix of bright colours, old-style elements and old "reader" style papers.

Have you seen this range? It is relatively new, but it is STUNNING - this is the Anthology range from Studio Calico. I just love the woodgrain paper - isn't it just divine?? There are also some gorgeous fabric rips - just rib the fabric to use as borders etc.

This layout was done by Black Market Paper Society - it just screamed vintage to me -so I scrapped my Granny and Grandfather's wedding day. So simple, no fancy trimming, just a sign of the times, I s'pose - it would have been during 2nd World War, I think......

Scrappy Catch Up

2010-07-15T08:52:00.003+10:00

Hi Folks,
Well now that we are back from holidays, got a bit more organised, and have our fridge fiasco on the way to being sorted -long story, but it involves a rather smelly end to out lovely holiday, :0(
I figured it was time for some shares of what I did to relax and wind down from the driving I did.
These photos I took about a year ago at Bargara Beach, near Bundaberg - he just loves that park, with its huuuuuge turtle to climb in out and around.
I used some fancy Pants Rough and Tough - just trying to use up some of my older stuff, I have soooo much stash atm, its just taking over my scrap area atm!!!
One of the things I used was a transparency over the page - I really liked how this turned out!!

With this layout I used some Fancy Pants Like Father Like Son Range - available now at ScrapbooknBits.

Also used some Tattered Angels Glimmer Screens, and Coffee Glimmermist to colour the chipboard elements.

I scrapped this layout with one of my favourite photos - I used 7 Gypsies paper, and some 7 Gypsies Ephemera, also some gorgeous Webster's flower ribbon - which I used to make the flowers.

This is a close up of the flower, I just wound it around itself to form the flower - kinda looks like a posy of roses.....

The leaves are those Ir-Resist-Able chips from Tattered Angels - also available at ScrapbooknBits

I just sprayed them with Coffee Glimmermist, and also dabbed a bit of Tim Hotz Distress Ink - Shabby Shutters.

Yesterday I got back some layouts I did for SIA - so I'll be back tomorrow to share them!!

Thanks for stopping by my blog:0)

Holiday in the Snow

2010-07-10T13:59:00.005+10:00

As promised, here are some pictures of our time in the snow - we had the best day, it was wonderful to spend time together as a family, just having fun.

I can't wait to scrap these pictures - finally some credible winter photos to scrap!! LOL Where we live, we don't really get much of a winter - haha!

These photos were taken at Blue Cow - we caught the ski tube to Perisher - OMG the most expensive train ride EVER Haha! We were please we did though, because Blue Cow was definately the prettiest, and had the most snow for us to "play" with!

Such a magical place for us North Queenslanders.....

'Course, Connor wasn't happy until we built a snow man, so here is my first ever, rather pathetic, attempt at a snow man!!

I lost count of the snowfights and snowballs that were hurled through the day - hehe!

Here's a couple of "just 'cos" photos - can't wait to scrap them!!!!

Thanks for popping by my blog, I'll be back later in the week with some scrappy shares, I have been scraping - took my gear with my of course, just need that scrapping fix!!

This Dear Lady.....

2010-07-03T22:22:00.002+10:00

Turned 90 today.... Amazing..
I think she looks marvellous, and the best thing is she is still REALLY healthy and is as sharp as a tack......
Happy Birthday Nanna!!!
Not that I think she will see this - I doubt she has ever touched a computer, let alone used the internet...She is from the really old school - this lady still banks the old fasioned way and doesn't even own a key card!!! She would never even dream of owning a credit card.... hmmmm, maybe I should have learnt something there!!
Part of the reason why, I think, is that Pa, her husband of over 61 years, never liked any of that "new" stuff - and even though he passed aways several years ago, she still does exactly what he would have wanted - how sweet is that!!!!

New Kraft It Up Challenge and The Follett Family Road Trip

2010-07-02T08:39:00.003+10:00

July's challenge is up at Kraft It Up - once again, another fantastic challenge.
The challenge is to use 4 photos, and Kraft as a base (of course!!!)
Here is what I did, but check out the blog for the other Creative Team Samples - they are awesome!
There is also a call for 2 - 3 more Creative Team Members - it is awesome on this CT, so if you love challenge blogs - why don't you apply??

Here is a photo I took of my boy at Bongaree - Bribie Island, before we went off on out road trip, we visited Mark's Mum and Dad for a couple of days.....

Gosh he is growing up - where has my baby gone????

At the moment, we are on the road - travelling to the snow....

Having heaps of fun on the road, we stop off at various playgrounds along the way so Connor can stretch his legs and play....

Here he is on the playground at Windsor - a place called Macquarie Park - on the banks of the Howkesbury River - really pretty....

We stopped at Tenterfield too, on our way to Tamworth - I love this photo of Connor all rugged up against the cold, having fun.....

This is the playground at Tenterfield, I love the Wintery look of the scenery, trees with no leaves, frosty mornings... Connor was so cute this morning - he was tickled pink that he could breathe out steam - first time he's seen that LOL! He also loved the ice on the car, the plants, the rooves of the houses....

It's great to see him experience all these new things... he loves learning new stuff......

Till next time, hope you are all keeping warm!!

MME is simply LUSH!!!

2010-06-24T08:14:00.005+10:00

This is the latest Design Team challenge at Addicted to Craft.
It was a Recipe Challenge - I quite like those challenges, this was the first one I have actually done, but gosh it was fun. I was lucky I had such beautiful products to work with too - courtesy of Luisa at Addicted to Craft :0)

The Recipe was to use 5 patterned papers, Brads and Rhinestones.
I had this boooootiful My Minds Eye Lush Range to work with. The paper is such good quality, and I looooove the flocked papers, so soft and pretty......

Here are some sneak peaks - I cut out the flowers and patterns from the flocked paper, and included them in the flower clusters around the circle.

Yesterday afternoon we all went off to the Mackay Show. It was Connor's first time at a show, and as he walked in, his eyes were so huge, and he didn't know what to take in first!! It was so cute...

This is Connor's first taste of fairy floss - and the lucky boy just happened to score it from the Mackay Sugar Display. Another good thing about living in a sugar town...lol... This fairy floss was the yummiest I have EVER tasted - so light and melt in the mouth, and not too sweet. Ahhh, yes, Mackay certainly knows sugar!! Hehe!!

Here he is on his first ferris wheel - it was one of those tiny little ones... Poor boy though, they stopped it when he was right at the top so they could let more people on... he did get a bit frightened then... Right after though, he just loved it!

Check out this dare devil face - I think this photo is one I am definately going to scrap!! LOL!

He was so proud of himself too - winning some prizes on the clown stand!! Very cute indeed.

All in all a lovely family outing - and a great way to spend an afternoon!!

Thanks for popping by my blog - don't forget to leave a comment, I love hearing from everyone:0)

Scrappy Shares

2010-06-19T21:26:00.003+10:00

Just a couple of scrappy shares - more as a diversion from Report Card writing than anything else - at this rate of procrastination, I will be staying up all night tomorrow night to finish them!! EEEEEEEEPPPP!!!!!

This is the layout for the free class I did at Scrapbook N Bits on Wednesday Night. Keep your eye on the Free Class Thread in the Forum - the DT Girls have lots planned over the next coupld of months!!

Just as a bit of a relax on a Friday night, I participated in the Cyber Crop over at Scrap Boutique. This layout was frome the lovely Amanda's Speed Scrap - really enjoyed this, as a real faff about type scrapper, sometimes it's good to be pressed for time and just stick it down - hehe.

Oh well, back to writing report cards - it would have to be the one part of my job I really don't like at all!!
Thanks for popping by my blog, don't forget to leave some comments!

Free Class at SnB

2010-06-12T18:24:00.000+10:00

Well, these promised sneaks are a tad late - I have been soooooo sick this week, first with some sort of chesty virus, now I have asthma, which is ever so pleasant.... NOT!!!!

The class will be on next Wednesday Night - 16 June, at 7.30pm, in the Free Class section in the ScrapbooknBits forum

I am going to show you how to make some cute embellishments with brown string, which will give your layout a cool textured look. I have used the gorgeous Max and Whiskers Range from Basic Grey, available at ScrapbooknBits.

Hope to see you all there!!

Scrappy Happenings @ ScrapbooknBits

2010-06-05T12:27:00.000+10:00

Yes, I have been scrapping - just seem too busy to actually upload to the blog... oopsies....
The layout below was for a free class last Wednesday at ScrapbooknBits. I used the JB Coredinations cardstock, October Afternoon Thrift Shop Papers, and other bits n pieces. Most of which can be found here in the SnB shop. If you want to do the class pop here in the Free Class section - I think it will be up for a while....

If you like that one, there will be another class on Wednesday 16th June - I will be using some gorgeous Max and Whiskers products!!
Sneaks will be up in a couple of days......

Also, I have been competing in the Postcards Competition over at Scrapboutique. Chels and the other designers outdid themselves with this competition - just so much fun!
This layout was for the trip to India.....
I just loved all the colours of the postcard, not to mention the bling!!LOL!

Our next stop was Japan, and I fell in love with the cherry blossoms, and the fans. The additional criterea was to use a paper art technique of some kind - and I made the little fan, just folded up some patterned paper, wrapped some DMC thread around the base, and treaded through a little bit more cotton. I actually was quite pleased with this one....

Our last port of call was the magnificent Greenland, I once again loved the colours, and the wintery feel to the whole card, so I produced a Christmas Layout - since we don't get much of a winter up here, winter photos are very hard to come by.... LOL!

Well, that's it from me atm - hope you all have a lovely weekend.

Thanks for stopping by my blog :0)

KISS at Kraft It Up!!!

2010-06-03T21:31:00.001+10:00

The challenge at Kraft It Up this month is to Keep It Simple!!

You have to use a Kraft base - of course, and do a minamalist layout.....

This layout would have to be the MOST challenging for me to date - I am so not good at minamalist, I am not a minamalist person in any way shape or form.......LOL.....

Anyway, this is my sample:

Hello from the USA!!

2010-05-10T19:20:00.000+10:00

The girls from Scrapboutique sent us a Postcard from the good ol' USA. Here is our inspiration:

This is my interpretation - I loved these Webster's Pages the moment I saw them, and when I saw the Postcard, they were what I thought of instantly.

Here is a close-up - this is the homemade flower I made a few weeks ago.

Oh well, that's it from me for now - I have a small boy to get off to bed, then I MIGHT get some scrapping in.

Wish me luck - and thanks for popping by!

Kraft It Up Challenge

2010-05-08T22:44:00.000+10:00

The May Kraft It Up challenge is up on the blog now.
You have to use Kraft as a base, of course, and then create your own patterned paper through stamping, masking, painting etc.... There are a heap of fantastic examples up on the blog.
This is what I did:

I stamped my Kraft Base with a Prima stamp, which I brushed with paint. Then I sprayed some purple Glimmermist over the base, too.

Bit different to what I normally do, hey? That's why I love this blog - I am getting challenged every month, and am constantly forced to leave my comfort zone.

Think I'll change the lettering to black, though - can't really see the title properly...... I'll mull that idea over a bit now..... LOL!

Thanks for popping by!

I Have Visited France!!

2010-05-03T08:01:00.000+10:00

Scrapboutique is running a wonderful competition at the world. The Postcard competition has us travelling around the world, visiting beautiful countries and scrapping layouts inspired by them.
Last week, we visited France - and this is the Postcard we received for inspiration.

Here is my layout - an older photo of Connor (before he had is curls cut off "sigh") enjoying some flowers.
I used the stunning Prima Shabby Chic Range - yet another beautiful range from Prima this year. Can you tell I'm just a wee bit addicted to Prima atm?? LOL!

I did lots of fussy cutting, and had loads of fun playing with flowers. I have WAY too many flowers - especially for someone who mainly scraps boy layouts, lol, so I am making a concerted effort to use them up!

Don't you love these birdies?? I cut them out from a Shabby Chic paper - they are so sweet!! If you can catch a glimpse of the fence, I painted it in Distress Paint, Picket Fence, and inked it in some Distress Ink - AntiqueLinen. I then wove a Prima vine in amongst the pickets, to give a shabby sort of look to the fence.

I had loads of fun with this layout - it's not often I can play with so many pretties, so I live it up when I can!! Hehe!

Thanks for popping by :0)

Some Sketch Challenges

2010-05-02T08:50:00.001+10:00

Well, we've come to the end of another month, scarily enough - where is the year going, I want to know -
Anyways, I managed to do a couple of sketch challenges, I love sketch challenges - they are so good for getting the mojo flowing... I have been a bit under the weather this week, and I had lost a bit of inspiration. These sketch challenges were perfect for getting things happening again!!

This on was done for the WIOIN sketch challenge blog. The sketch was provided by the lovely Wendy, and I used last month's delicious boy kit from WIOIN.
I love how this turned out!! Thanks Wendy and Mel!!

This Sketch Challenge was the monthly challenge at Anna's Craft Cupboard. Again, this was another sketch done by the talented Wendy.

Speaking of challenges, keep your eye on the Kraft It Up challenge blog, here is a peek at what I did for this month's challenge reveal:

Thanks for stopping by my blog, don't forget to leave some comments - I love reading them all!!

I should be back soon with some more scrappy shares.

Gorgeous Prima Eye Candy

2010-05-01T09:37:00.000+10:00

If you are looking for some gorgeous eye candy as inspiration, pop by the Addicted to Craft Blog, the Design Team were given some gorgeous Prima Stamps, and challenged to use them to make cards, a layout, or any other OTP.
Well - what those ladies came up with was STUNNING, soooooooo much inspiration, you really should check it out.
This is what I did - I made two cards, which I will probably give to Mum and my MIL for Mother's day.
I had loads of fun, using the Prima Green Leaf Stamp. On the pink/green card, I clear embossed the stamp imprint, then rubbed a Time Holtz Distress stamp over it - the clear embossing resisted the stamp, creating a resist design.
On the brown/pink card, I stamped a leaf swirl in brown, then added some Crystal Distress Stickles.

Thanks for looking everyone!!

Ruby Chewsday

2010-04-28T18:56:00.000+10:00

Well, here is a layout about why our dear puppy Ruby girl gets affectionately - well most of the time anyway - called Ruby Chewsday. She chews anything, anytime.... LOL!!

Any day is a Ruby Chewsday in our house!! LOL!! All I can say is it's lucky she's lovable!!!

Here are some long-promised Easter photos. Connor was such a crack-up during our Egg Hunt. He found all the eggs, then made us hide them time and time again - so he could keep finding them over and over again. He even made us close our eyes, so he could hide them. Funny thing was though, he'd put a pile of eggs in one spot, then insist on joining in on the hunt - only to run straight to the pile hidden!!! Funniest bit was he'd say "Ummmmmmmmm" then "Ahahhhhhhh" when he found them - as if it was a surprise!! Hahah!!

Here he is "closing" his eyes - do you see him peeking???? LOL

Connor on the egg hunt - he loved finding all the eggs, over and over.....haha

The egg booty - in a little basket I made!!

Of course, not ALL the eggs got hidden every time - some made it into Connor's mouth. Check out the chocolate moosh!! Lil cutie pie!!

Thanks for popping by, I'm slowly catching up on my blogging - Haha!

Prima Strawberry Kisses and Bo Bunny Mamarazi

2010-04-27T17:09:00.002+10:00

Teehee - I am just trying to catch up on my scrappy shares - I have beens scrapping, but I just don't seem to get the time to upload them, or post them on my blog....

Anywho, I have been having an absolute ball playing with some of the latest CHA products - there are so many divine products out there at the moment, and boy oh boy, is my hip pocket feeling the pain! LOL!!
Oh well, at least I have lots of pretties to look at!! LOL!

This range would have to be one of the most beautiful I have seen in a long time - Prima Strawberry Kisses - this paper is divine, and I have another greenish one with roses etc on it, I am planning to use it VERY soon too!! Yummo - as I've said before, Prima have outdone themselves this CHA!!!

Now THIS range is divine too - Bo Bunny Mamarazi - was I slow or was anyone else not quick to pick up the play on words - Paparazi/Mamarazi "roll eyes" gosh I am a little slow on the uptake at times!!!! LOL!!
Anyway, the papers and embellies in this range are fabulously grungy, and I had a ball playing with them.

I also used Tim Holtz Rock Candy Distress Paint and Stickles - sooooo great for adding texture, it really is a must to add to your stash!!

Thanks for looking, everyone - I'll probably be back again tomorrow with more shares!!!

Scrap Within Reach

2010-04-26T10:27:00.001+10:00

Luisa at Addicted to Craft sent me some gorgeous Scrap Within Reach - Carnival Ride papers and embies. I love the colours of this range - beautiful rusty oranges and burnt reds.
Perfect for autumn layouts etc....

Here is another layout I did with the range - I scrapped a typically cheeky photo of my boy.

Sooooo much gorgeous product - I even scrapped two cards with the range.

Hope you enjoyed the scrappy share, thanks for popping by on my blog!

To The Fallen

2010-04-25T14:53:00.000+10:00

They shalt not grow old

As we who are left grow old.

Age shall not weary them,

Nor the years condemn

At the going down of the sun,

and in the morning,

We will remember them.

Lest We Forget

To all those who have loved ones who have fallen,

To all those who have served to defend this beautiful, lucky country,

To all those who are still serving in the armed forces,

THANK YOU for the sacrifices you have made so that my loved ones and I can enjoy the blessed life we do.

I am forever grateful.

1 Week Left....

2010-04-24T21:41:00.000+10:00

To get your entries into the Kraft It Up challenge this month.

As usual, there are some totally gorgeous entries, I can't wait to see more!!
So, get them in - you only have one more week!

Check This Out For Value!!!

2010-04-16T19:22:00.000+10:00

Karen at ScrapbooknBits sent me this gorgeous kit:

I used it to make these THREE layouts - wow, talk about value, the kit is only $26.00 - and I STILL had left overs, too!!!
So, if you want to sink your teeth into this beautiful kit, head over to here:

Oooops

2010-04-11T19:48:00.000+10:00

I haven't blogged for soooooo long, and it isn't because I haven't got anything to say, or that I am not scrapping, I have just seemed, I don't know, too ummmmmm, uninspired blog wise????

Lots and lots has happened since my last post, we went through a cyclone here in Mackay, we had a lovely Easter just chilling round the house, not doing much at all - I'll post some Easter photos another time. Connor and I went away to Bundaberg to visit Mum and Dad - and again I'll post those another time....

Today, we had a lovely time..... we went to Airlie Beach for lunch. I have to say that they have done a terrific job of tidying up since Ului crossed there - it is fantastic as always....

We went to a place called Capers - and it is wonderful, the food is so fresh as they source it all from local suppiers.... Just yummo!!

This was the view from our table - magnificent!!

My meal - 1/2 a Chilli Mud Crab and Jasmine Rice.

Mark's meal - 1/2 kilo prawns with Aioli Cream, Salad and Chips....

Connor, of course, had fish and chips - LOL!!

I have been scrapping too - this is the my sample for the new Kraft It Up Challenge.

The Challenge is to do a Monochromatic Layout - Kraft Base, of course, and the only colour you CAN'T use is BROWN.....

Here is a close up of the embellie cluster.....

Over at Addicted to Craft, there is a new DT Sketch Challenge. We were given some gorgeous Prima Mulberry paper, and an Anam Stubbington Sketch. It is amazing how we've all come up with such different layouts - go and check it out, and while you are there, give the Sketch a whirl, too - it is a wonderful sketch!

Here is my Layout..... Isn't the paper just too divine for words??? I love Prima stitched Mulberry Paper - the textures, the colours, the images..... booootiful!!!!

Here are a couple of close ups - for those gold leaf swirls, I used the Prima Leaf Swirl Stamp, and embossed the image in gold.... the idea was to have little flashes of gold to blend with the luscious paper, also the gorgeous gold Prima flower centres.... Ooooooh, I had such fun with this!!!

Oh, well, that's it from me for now -I'll come back later with more shares, promise....

Thanks for visiting!!

Don't Forget.....

2010-03-30T21:29:00.000+10:00

Only 1 day left to get your entries in at Kraft It Up

The challenge is to use Kraft as your base, and a Mixed Alpha Title
Can't wait to see some more entries!!

Phew!! Such a busy week!!

2010-03-13T10:20:00.000+10:00

Such a busy week - sooooo glad it's the weekend!!

We had a visit from Mum and Dad - it is always lovely to see them, they are so good to us, and we always have such a nice time. We went out for dinner - to Angelo's an Italian restaurant at the Harbour!! I had Italian Chicken risotto, and it was delicious!!

I love this photo, and I'm just disappointed it's blurry, but I am sure I will scrap it anyway!! Tehe!

I did this layout for the Room of The Month Challenge at Bon's

The lovely Flis gave us this room to work with:

This is what I did, I think what stood out the most to me was the beautiful colour combination....

This layout was for the Sketch challenge at Bon's

This is so not my style, so it was a real challenge for me, and I struggled with the paint circles, which wasn't helped by my naughty little Ruby Doobie puppy jumping on the table where they were drying and smudging them....

Fortunately I was able to cover the smudges....LOL!!

Well, I have some more decluttering planned for today - going to clean out Connor's drawers and get rid of clothes he has outgrown, and clean out the hall cupboard. Tomorrow I'll clean out another garden, and wash the hallway walls.

I also plan on doing some scrapping - got some work to do for the gorgeous Karen at SnB ;0)

TFL!!

2010-03-07T21:38:00.001+10:00

I decided to have a bit of fun doing some challenges this weekend, this one was the sketch challenge at Anna's Craft Cupboard. Sketch was done by the lovely Wendy Smith

This layout is for the March What Is Old Is New Sketch Challenge. The criteria was to follow the sketch, but also to use the word Love in the title.

All in all, I have had a busy, yet productive weekend. I even managed to make a Chocolate Slice - inspired by all the lovely looking food on the gorgeous Felicity's blog.

That's all from me - hope you all had a lovely weekend!

Thanks for stopping by:0)

Kraft It Up March Challenge

2010-03-03T22:32:00.000+10:00

The new challenge is up at Kraft It Up!

The requirements are:

- Use a Kraft Base (of course!!)

- Use a Mixed Alpha Title.

Here is the sample I did:

I used Fancy Pants Vintage Valentine, some Prima flowers, and a Jenni Bowlin bingo card, as well as some lace and bits and pieces.....

Here are a couple of close ups....

Have fun ladies - and congratulations, all the entries from last month were awesome!!

Having a Scrappy Play with Gorgeous Prima

2010-02-28T12:05:00.000+10:00

Who doesn't adore Prima??? They have really outdone themselves this year with their flowers, embellies, papers and bling - it is all just stunning, and I have loved having a play with my new goodies!!!
This is a layout of my Nanna's family, another one of my vintage photos for my special album....
You can get most of these goodies from Scrapbooknbits
Most of it is new - the butterfly, papers, alphas, tea roses..... the pearl branch is from the release before.....
Do you like the tag?? I inked it with about 4 different Distress Inks, and added the lace....

Just a close up, the butterflies Prima have released are beautiful, and they have a gorgeous little clip, so they can be made into headbands, brooches, etc.....

The tea roses are very pretty - the chunky glitter looks just like they have been dipped in sugar!! Mmmmmmm.....

Here is another one, using the Prima Pastiche range....

This is my Nanna, in the mid 1920s, with her dolly. Her name is Leila, and that is what was written on the photo, hence the title....

Speaking of Prima, they have some big news coming, so keep an eye on their blog, HERE
I wonder what it is????

Pop on over, and find out how you can win some gorgeous Prima goodness......

You don't have long now.....

2010-02-25T06:11:00.000+10:00

To get your entries in at the Kraft It Up challenge blog.
Don't forget the criterea for this month is:

Kraft base (of course!!)
Lots of distreassing.

There are some amazing entries so far - keep 'em coming!!!!

Sunday Morning at Airlie Beach

2010-02-22T07:40:00.000+10:00

Well, I had a lovely weekend - I finally got a bit of my mojo back after it being awol during the last couple of weeks (I think because I was sick....)
This layout I started a while back, and I finally finished it - this has to be one of my favourite photos of Connor ever. Just used some Fancy Pants goodness. This one is of my big boy heading off to Prep on his first day - I just love how his back pack is almost as big as him!!
This layout has the gorgeous October Afternoon Report Card range - I adore this range, so bright, with the cutest little whimsical embies..... I love the letters that go with it, but I had trouble making them "pop" against the background, so I just matted them on black cardstock. Thank goodness it worked!

Yesterday morning we went for a drive up to Airlie Beach. I was experimenting with my camera here, trying to get those little circles in the background.... didn't quite achieve what I wanted, but the background is still nicely blurred....

Mark and Connor having some fun in the water at the lagoon, I just chose to laze on the beach and snap away!!

Here is a photo of the lagoon - just love it here, nice and safe, with no stingers/sharks etc.

Well, that's it from me - hope you all have a nice week. I'm off to get ready for work!!

I Had To Keep a Secret.....

2010-02-19T21:11:00.000+10:00

Now, I can finally share!!!!

I am part of the Addicted to Craft Design Team for 2010!!!

I am so stoked, I'm actually still pinching myself - I can't quite believe it!!

Congratulations to all the other ladies on the team, I am looking forward to working with you all!!

Check it out, such a talented group, as I said, I am a little disbelieving I am part of it......

Darelle Foster (Creative Team)

Mellany Ams (Blog Coordinator)

Angella Peardon (DT Coordinator)

Don't Forget

2010-02-15T16:58:00.000+10:00

Bon's Cybercrop tomorrow night - heaps of chatting, challenges, games and of course scrapping!
Always heaps of fun!
See you there:0)

My Dear Little Man......

2010-02-14T22:19:00.000+10:00

Turned five today "sigh"....Where did the time go???
Here he is at Muller park where his party was, we had games, trains - all the fun that the other kids were having... What was Connor doing????
Trying to catch tadpoles in the rain puddles-that's what!!! He even had to be dragged from this activity to cut his cake!!
LOL - such a lil boy!!

He did spend some time on the playground - briefly - hehe Look at how wet and grubby his bottom half is"eye roll"

After we did cut the cake, a photo was taken of my boys - I was so flat out, I didn't have much time to take photos - fortunately a Mum there grabbed my camera, and took some photos for me - I was so lucky, 'cos she got some good ones, like this.....

Here is the birthday cake - a train of course, for my train lovin boy!!

Quick Post

2010-02-13T19:36:00.001+10:00

Just a couple more layouts I finished last weekend. I have been sick all week, so I have not been inspired to create much at all - shock! gasp! Hehe
I am slowly chugging through all the Xmas layouts I wanted to do - this one is of the Xmas treats I always make. Usually I make a heap and give them out as gifts to neighbours etc, and then we usually have a heap left to enjoy Xmas Day - yum!!
Trouble is, I spend so much time cooking them I don't really enjoy them - but the family appreciates it!!

I started this layout at a Cricut class at my LSS - the word "inspire" has been done, with a shadow, on the Cricut, and the plant at the bottom has been cut too - I don't know about this layout, I tried to do something different with the paper, and I'm not sure I pulled it off..... I also sanded the photo, leaving the image of Connor clean.....

This is my big boy on his first day at Prep - he was so excited, he wouldn't look at the camera - he was too busy taking everything else in!!!
This is the best photo I got, as all the photos I took in the yard look foggy - it was so humid that it was fogging up the lens straight away - LOL!!!

Just a quick share :0)

2010-02-04T20:57:00.001+10:00

Well here is the layout I did for the Kraft it Up challenge blog. The samples the CT have created are amazing, and already some of the entries look fabulous.
You really should go and check it out!!

I am TRYING to improve my meagre cardmaking skills - it is so hard for me to create cards, I love doing it, but the challenge is always to try to add something different, and making them meaningful....

I picked up a canves so cheaply from a LSS on Bribie Island - just $3.00!!
Anyways, I made this Key holder, because Mark is always losing his keys.... I am hoping he uses it to try and save me the frustration of searching for them......LOL!

These layouts I did for the Scrapboutique CC
This one was the colour challenge:
This was for the sketch challenge - I loved this sketch, so different!!

Thanks for looking everyone!

I'm off to make a cuppa, and then try and do some scrapping - if I don't fall asleep first!!

Ssshhhh.....

2010-01-26T08:52:00.000+10:00

There is a FANTASTIC new challenge site starting soon, HERE

Can't tell you much more, because it is a surprise, but here are a couple of sneaks of the first layout I did as part of the Creative Team reveal.

Make sure you go and check it out - I am so excited to be part of the Creative Team for this Challenge Blog, because it is going to be a fantastic site!!