My Life Journey

Snag a Canon or Nikon Camera Giveaway

2012-01-26T10:20:00.001+10:00

Everyone loves a freebie, so I thought I'd share my latest find.

I've been using MCP Actions for quite a while to edit my photos, making the time spent getting them just right was reduced nearly by half. I am especially loving the vintage style actions.

So, here's their latest competition to win a Canon or Nikon Camera!
http://bit.ly/zNsPjm

So who's in?

Card and a half sketch...

2011-11-19T22:41:00.002+10:00

I made this cute little card for a gorgeous friend of mine who's been helping us out a lot lately.

I based this card on one of the gorgeous sketches from Card and a Half, and am loving the muted tones in these OA papers and the simplicity. I would've added a bow, but the style didn't really suit.

My bad

2011-11-08T21:16:00.003+10:00

I've been so busy with life, that my poor little blog has been badly neglected yet again.

Lots has been happening of late, but something kinda scrappy and something cute coming up. A card for my gorgeous niece's 1st Birthday and Christening, and a cute photo of her at her little lady bug party.

Dedicated to Helen & the boys

2011-08-18T17:43:00.002+10:00

This card was going to be for the Sketch Challenge over at Card and a Half, however I didn't get it finished in time. Then came some terrible news from the owner of the blog (a gorgeous friend), so I have dedicated it to her family xx

Forever Friends card

2011-08-18T17:36:00.003+10:00

This card is for a friend who hasn't been well. I got the gorgeous Forever friends stamps with a magazine my MIL gave me. I hand cut the window so you could see him from the front, because he was too cute to hide!

Tooth Pillows

2011-07-14T22:29:00.001+10:00

I've had my eye on this cute tooth pillow pattern from mmmcrafts for about 6 months, and since Aiden's first loose tooth was getting wigglier by the day, I thought I'd better hurry up! I ended up making it just in time, and also made one for his little girl friend's birthday as well. I used the basic pattern and dressed them up pretty similar to the examples, so I didn't have too much guess work.

Erin suggested we make the wings out of pink tulle (which turned out awesome), and she also chose the sequin ribbon for the ballet shoes. Lucky we have some left to make one for her soon!

Aren't they adorable!

Thanks to Larissa from mmmcrafts for sharing her awesome pattern for free! Make sure you check out the rest of her cute little sewing patterns in her etsy shop.

And here is toothless Aiden with his tooth officer waiting for the tooth fairy. He was so excited, and even more so because he helped me make this gorgeous little officer.

It's that time of year!

2011-07-10T20:56:00.001+10:00

It's that time of year when everyone seems to be having babies! My niece just had a beautiful little girl, giving me an excuse to create a cute little girly card using these gorgeous Echo Park papers. I've also just heard through the grapevine that my cousin has just had a little boy, so off to the craft table again! xx

Jack's card

2011-06-30T22:20:00.000+10:00

I had heaps of fun making this card for the arrival of a friend's little boy. Welcome to this world Jack! He's such a little cutie, even though he never woke the whole time we were there. Hope he doesn't wake his Mummy up too much tonight! You have one gorgeous little man there, Fiona!

Card Sketch Challenge

2011-06-12T17:03:00.001+10:00

Another challenge over at A Card and a Half was to make a card using Helen's sketch. I used the sketch as inspiration for this card I made for our friends' gorgeous little girl, Emily. I love how it turned out, although it doesn't look much like the sketch now! LOL! Honest to goodness, I did start with the sketch! I used the girls paperie 'kitch' range, which is super cute!

A Card and a Half challenge

2011-06-11T14:52:00.003+10:00

My gorgeous friend Helen has started a little card challenge blog - A Card and a Half. Her latest challenge was to make a male card using embossing and punches.

I chose to use the Spotted Owl Soup range from Jillibean Soup to make this card for a friend. I've kept it really simple and embossed stars on the spotty paper in the background, which I then sanded to reveal the pattern, and have punched the paper around the little owl.

7 years on the 7th!

2011-02-11T13:42:00.006+10:00

I couldn't resist making a cute little card for hubby for our Anniversary on Monday.

I've entered it at the Show us your stuff blog for their February Challenge to make something with a handmade heart. I hand cut the heart shape as the base and then added some string and a cool flower I just made up in the moment! Love how it opens to a full heart. Even hubby noticed.

Family Time // Digi Scrapping

2011-01-29T23:06:00.001+10:00

There's no time like the present, and I didn't feel like sitting at my scrap desk tonight, so I thought I'd have a play with the free Sweethearts digi kit I downloaded from ScrapOrchard by the awesome SuzieQScraps. I got a Christmas layout done too! Now I just have to work out the cheapest way to print these digi layouts.

A little sew-a-thon

2011-01-21T00:29:00.004+10:00

After I made Erin's dress last week, I wondered how hard it would be to whip a smaller version up for Erin's Baby doll? I cut a few corners by not using bias binding for the armholes, and just sewed a small hem and was surprised at how quick it all came together.

The pillowcase is another from a thrift shop and came complete with the lace border and embroidery. I just had to re-hem it. I had a bit of leftover fabric, so created this cute little headband to match.

Last year a dear friend asked me to make a car roll for her eldest son, as I'd made her youngest one for his Birthday. I modelled it on one I'd bought at Handmade Heaven a few years ago for Aiden. I found a little iron-on letter motif to dress it up a bit. Hope you like it PJ!

And while I was at the sewing desk, I made one for Erin's Polly Pocket cars, using some gorgeous girly fabric I purchased from Bubbamia Fabrics yonks ago. Was so good to get these little projects finished, as they've been sitting on my desk for about 3 months.

Thanks for visiting. xx

Giving and taking

2011-01-15T00:58:00.009+10:00

While stopping at our local thrift shop earlier this week to deliver a load of goodies of my own, I picked up these gorgeous vintage pillowcases for $2. Bargain! (I'm so like Dad)

My mind started ticking over and although I have a half finished pillowcase dress for Erin sitting on my desk, I thought I'd have a go making one out of an actual pillowcase (in case I stuffed up). I was pretty impressed with the result. It even fit! Leone, you will be proud, I even made some cute little yoyo flowers to match.

There's nothing quite like the feeling of seeing something come to life that you've made with your own two hands.

The floods

2011-01-14T01:11:00.004+10:00

This week has been most difficult to endure. The floods around Queensland and throughout Australia have brought so many horrific scenes to mind. Etched into our memories forever, much like the floods of '74, this week will be part of our country's history forever. Whether directly affected by the floods, helping or onlooking, I don't think anyone could be prepared for such a tragic start to 2011!

While we are thankful that our little plot of land and belongings were not tossed into the giant bathtub that is the Brisbane River, there are so so many who aren't so lucky and will have to start their lives from scratch.

Sleeplessness has been my friend, as the scenes repeat over and over in my head, from those who have lost everything they own to those who have lost friends and loved ones.

A special birthday

2011-01-08T16:07:00.002+10:00

I can hardly believe Dad is turning 60 in a little over a week! He certainly doesn't act or look his age, and I can only hope I look as good at 60. We're organising a special little do up at Tamborine Mountain at the Polish Restaurant for lunch with the family and a special gift. I don't want to spoil the surprise, but we're sure he'll love it!

I put together this card and little voucher pocket (recipe from a Christmas Card magazine). I used a super old plastic credit card star as the template for the stars, some old star brads and the papers are all from my off-cuts basket. Feeling great about using up some old stuff.

Thanks for stopping by.

Bring it on!

2011-01-07T16:56:00.004+10:00

I hope you've had a super start to 2011! I'm positive this year is going to be 100% on the last. Almost everyone I know says they're happy to see the end of 2010! I say, ditto! Good riddens and bring on 2011!

I've vowed this year to make less impact on the environment, aiming to reduce our household waste and reuse as much as we can. It only makes sense that my scrapping goal this year is to use something recycled on my layouts, whether it be fabric offcuts, packaging or something that would normally be thrown in the garbage.

I'm also going to use as much of my old stash as I can before buying new stuff, as tempting as it is. I think that's going to be the hardest part for me :)

To start the year off on the right foot, I'd like to thank White with 1 and their January challenge.

Here's my take on "white + navy/royal blue + a banner".
I used some old demin offcuts to make the banner and dug a heap of old blue stuff out of my stash. I even managed to use the negative from the threading water punch. Can you pick it?

May your year be full of blessings - here's to 2011!

Inspiration

2011-01-05T23:11:00.003+10:00

I've been exploring and found some cool blog challenges - Kraft it up and White with 1. Far out, it's been way too long since I scrapped! Can't wait to get stuck into these. I miss my gorgeous scrappy friends. Definitely need another scrappy session together soon! xx

The excitement of Christmas Eve

2010-12-25T10:54:00.003+10:00

I love watching the excitement in the kids Christmas Eve, the anticipation of Santa visiting and leaving them special presents.

The kids have loved changing the 'days til Christmas' calendar tree every morning this week, and have learnt all the numbers! They were so excited yesterday morning when there was only 1 day til Christmas.

The kids and I have been having heaps of fun baking Christmas treats and the kids especially loved icing and decorating the star & reindeer shaped cookies for the neighbours. I used Sandy's (now famous) Cookie recipe and iced them with strawberry and butterscotch glace icing. I made some little tags with the cuttlebug and tied them up with ribbon. They looked so cute! I'll definitely be making them again, as there were a big hit with everyone.

Since it was raining, the kids were a bit worried the reindeers wouldn't be able to see their reindeer food, so we got busy decorating this cute little egg carton reindeer food container to put out on the front doorstep. I knew I was keeping all those egg cartons for a reason!

I spent most of yesterday cooking some traditional Polish dishes for our mini Christmas Eve at home, since it's our year to stay home. We do the full Christmas Eve thing every second year at Mum and Dad's, and every other year here with our little family, so the kids can do the whole night before Christmas (Aussie) thing. The kids and Al still aren't fussed on the Polish Bigos (cabbage stew), but Erin devoured the entire Entree (smoked salmon stacks & stuffed eggs). Something I remember from our Polish Christmases with Grandma T is the sparkling apple juice in little glasses she put out for us. I bought some and put it in little glasses for the kids. Erin loved it, Aiden wasn't too keen.

Al's Mum painted this gorgeous plate for the kids to put Santa's supper on. Isn't it just gorgeous! The kids were so excited to put out the cookies they'd made & decorated especially for Santa!

Wishing everyone the most gorgeous Christmas and a fresh and bright New Year in 2011!

Warm wishes,

Leah xx

A few Christmas goodies

2010-12-23T08:10:00.001+10:00

A few of the goodies the kids and I made yesterday.

Yummy fondant filled chocolates, which Al reckons taste like snack (pineapple, strawberry, peppermint & caramel). None of us were fussed on the caramel though. A new version of White Christmas with mini marshmallows and Sugar cookies (from Sandy's recipe), which are so delicious.

Today we have plans to make Bigos (a Polish stew with pork & mushrooms, based on sauerkraut) and ice the cute sugar cookies we made yesterday. The kids are dying to decorate them.

Totally blessed!

2010-12-22T20:52:00.005+10:00

I am totally blessed to have been able to spend the last few weeks at home with the kids, just being a Mum for a change, dragging the kids along to do the last of the Christmas shopping, taking them to see Santa and just spending time at home baking Christmas goodies together. I've really enjoyed myself, and wondering if this working gig (especially working for myself) is totally the wrong thing for me. Anyway, that's another story!

To all my gorgeous scrappy friends, I hope you have a magical Christmas and an awesome New Year!

Teacher's gifts

2010-12-10T20:56:00.038+10:00

I was looking for a gift that was a little unique, so of course, I start scouring the net for ideas. I found this cute idea of a potted plant with a little sign, "Thanks for helping me grow!"

I made some cute little tags up on the computer with the kids names & photos on them, laminated them, and the kids and I picked up some plants the next morning on the way to Kindy. They both really loved the venus fly traps, not at all what I had in mind, but it does reflect on their love of nature. The teachers absolutely loved getting their little growing gifts.

Up for grabs... gorgeous My Scrapbook Nook kit

2010-11-07T09:55:00.004+10:00

All this gorgeousness could be yours!

While you're there, make sure you check out the gorgeous kits and samples at My Scrapbook Nook.

An amazing couple of weekends

2010-10-25T22:31:00.004+10:00

The last couple of weekends have been action packed!

Karen, Jolene, Leone & I spent last weekend in paradise celebrating Karen's Birthday. Okay, it was Macleay Island, but spending the weekend with such gorgeous gals made it paradise. Karen organised the BEST place, a gorgeous house overlooking the water with spectacular sunset views. Spent the weekend riding around the Island (all 15km of it), sunning ourselves on the deck, taking photos and scrapbooking.

This weekend Al and I did the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. It was really awesome and what made it even more special was that we were lucky enough to be up there when they turned on the pink lights for Breast Cancer Awareness month! So, if you're going over the Story Bridge after dark in October, be sure to look up and check out the awesome pink lights! Definitely worth it!

Decluttering

2010-10-05T11:06:00.001+10:00

Woohoo, I'm feeling fantastic! I love SPRING and the feeling of light, bright and sunshine it brings. Well, even though it's been raining a LOT lately, there have been a few little bursts of sunshine through the cloud, which has made me rethink my scrap space. I've done a bit of spring cleaning, down-sizing, moved things around and decluttered, leaving my space much lighter and brighter! I LOVE IT!

All this means I have a few things left over that I no longer need. I'll take some photographs in the next few days, but to give you an idea, I have...

Spice racks & jars
Various shelf racks
Plastic upright paper holders + inserts
Plastic drawers
Tote bags
Tools

If you're interested, check back soon for an update.

Holidays and all!

2010-10-05T10:36:00.003+10:00

Finally have a chance to catch up on my little poor neglected bloggie. Main reason being, I've been updating our holiday blog from our recent Cape York trip. I'd love you to check it out! Here's a few of my fav pics.

I would love to be able to say I've been scrapping my heart out, but unfortunately, have not :( Not long after we arrived back from our trip, Al received some exciting news that he'd been offered a job in Perth for 2 years. After a long and agonising decision process, we decided not to go. It was absolutely painful, because as much as we wanted the excitement and fun of moving to a new city, there were a lot of downfalls, like the kids starting school next year, the cost of moving, finding a new house to rent, fixing our house up to rent, storage, and the list goes on. Now we've made our decision, we have finally had time to get back into our routine.

Work, work and more work...

2010-05-17T21:18:00.002+10:00

but it's all good! I've been toying with the idea of offering more graphic design services in my web design business for a while now, and I'm excited to announce that I've finally done it!

Instyle Web Design is now taking orders for facebook page designs, blog headers, invitations and announcements, etsy & madeit banners, logos, business cards and heaps more. Head on over to our Instyle Web Design facebook page if you're interested, I'd love you to 'like' me! LOL, sounds funny, doesn't it! Our services are listed on the "Pricelist" tab. I'd love to hear from you!

I'm also in the process of updating our website to offer online payment options and changing the design in line with our new identity design. Check it out soon!

Sewing mad!

2010-05-17T20:42:00.003+10:00

Wow. How long has it been since I last posted! Thanks to Miriam over at BubbaChenille for helping get my butt into gear ;) Check out her gorgeous chenille giveaway while you're there. I've never sewn with chenille (in fact I don't sew much at all), but I'm willing to give anything a go!

Speaking of sewing, I actually made a little gift for a friend's gorgeous boy who turned one on Saturday. I couldn't resist these cute fabrics, (and a few more!) lol

About six months ago, I was fortunate to win a gift voucher at Handmade Heaven, and I used it to buy a gorgeous handmade car racetrack travel roll. I've never seen anything like it before, and I immediately fell in love. My son loves playing with it, especially on long car trips, and it's so small and easy to pack up and take anywhere. So, I decided to try my hand at making one myself. Apart from the continuous bias binding, it was heaps of fun to make! I'd love to credit the original designer, however I'm not sure who it was. If anyone knows who makes these gorgeous tracks for Handmade Heaven, I'd love to hear from you so I can refer my friends!

My machine's getting quite a workout lately, and today I spent the day with a gorgeous friend sewing kindy sheets. WOW! Who would've thought it would take 3 hours to make one sheet set! Man! I learnt lots though, how NOT to sew sheet bags, and how to unpick real fast! Lots of laughs though and that's the most important thing! ;) Still have to sew about a thousand hand towels and a few more sheet sets, but now we've got the hang of it, should only take about an hour each!

2010-03-12T21:08:00.004+10:00

How time flies! It's already March, and I can hardly believe it! My little girl is nearly 3 - YES THREE and she's getting all excited about her little Tinkerbell party. She's picked out a cute dolly varden style cake with Tinkerbell instead of Barbie in the centre! Yes, I get carried away with the birthday cakes, but I love making them, and the kids love choosing them! I love watching their eyes light up when they look through the cake book - it reminds me of when I used to do the same thing with Mum! Memories I will treasure forever!

When I was three, my Mum got my ears pierced, and as I was putting Erin to bed tonight I asked her if she wanted to get her ears pierced for her 3rd birthday, like Mummy, or did she want to wait til she was older, she said, "Mummy, I think I'll get earrings when I'm all grown up - how 'bout when I'm 3!". So cute.

On another note, I've been doing little creating since the Lazy Days of Summer Comp, which I was lucky enough to win second prize in ;) A huge congrats to Maree for winning - her entries were awesome!

Here are my entries in no particular order plus a few other layouts I've done lately.

Until next time xx

Alex the scarecrow

2010-02-02T20:16:00.002+10:00

I promised the kids I'd help them make a scarecrow this afternoon, so when they woke from their arvo nap, we set about sourcing all the bits and pieces. We had so much fun, and Al even joined in when he got home and donated some of his old shirts!

This is how he started out...my lovely sketch and Aiden's colouring

Alex the Scarecrow comes to life!

Alex the Scarecrow's new home in our strawberry patch

A couple of cards

2010-01-31T21:47:00.002+10:00

We don't usually "do" Valentine's Day, as our wedding anniversary is next week, but I joined in the Scrap Pile Valentine's Day card challenge.

I designed a mini layout for the front of the card using a photo we took of ourselves mucking around.

This one's the week 2 challenge for the Lazy Days of Summer competition over at Scrap Pile. It was a real challenge doing a circle card, but here's my attempt!

Creations ~ the last few months

2010-01-25T14:33:00.004+10:00

Thought I'd better update to include a few creations over my *SLACK BLOGGER* period. See, I really have been busy!! ;)

Loved the Kev Carmody - Cannot Buy My Soul concert. We had the best time!

Aiden and his diggers.It's a pity he's grown out of Thomas, he really did love playing with Jack, Alfie and Max & Monty, and I loved watching him play for hours in the dirt! Typical boy!

The first time we painted her nails. She was so excited!Although there was a near disaster afterwards, the moment wasn't lost.

Aiden at his Playgroup Party. Just hanging around on the swings.

I did this for my big sister in Sweden, who visited in December. I hope it got home safely, sis!

Loved these pics of us girls at the Scrap Pile retreat

in July last year. We had such a ball!

Over and out for now, and I hope to keep up to date a bit more regularly in 2010!

Lazy Days of Summer

2010-01-24T21:17:00.008+10:00

It's been a while since I've been around, but I'm back! A busy time over Christmas with work, and lots happening with the family, so all is kind of back to normal around here, except we are one arm down (Al broke his wrist playing soccer on Friday night), and our world is about to be turned upside down again for about 6-8weeks. He's been given 6 weeks off work, but being the male he is, wants to go back on Wednesday! Silly bugger! Although I'll leave the decision making up to him, I'm not too sure how he plans to get to work with his right arm plastered from thumb to elbow! I'm certainly not going to be able to play TAXI for him AND the kids!

The kids are both starting new care arrangements at the end of this week, and they are both a little hesitant, but very excited, in anticipation of the changes. Aiden is really looking forward to starting Kindy (big school) with a gorgeous new friend, and I'm not sure Erin really knows what's going on with her new daycare, but I have no doubt she'll slot into the new centre easily.

Man, they are both growing up though! Just today they were having races across the pool, and although Aiden won most, Erin wasn't far behind (and mostly because she was lifting her head to breath as she goes). It wasn't long ago we had to hold them in the pool ourselves, and now they have their independence, there's no stopping them. It's so lovely to watch them play together, and although they're not always angels, it's days like today that make my heart happy. I really wanted to get some pool snaps today, but I was enjoying the water too much, and Al reckoned he wouldn't be able to use the camera left handed! (pfff, what an excuse!)

Although I did manage to scrap a pic of Aiden in the pool from last November for Karen's Water Fun challenge (part of the Lazy Days of Summer Comp over at Scrap Pile).

I also managed to finish Leanne's Inspiration challenge...

using a photo of Leone and I at the chocolate factory near Mel's place in Malanda! What a fun day that was! I won't forget that trip in a long time.

Ooh la la!

2009-11-09T14:38:00.006+10:00

A couple of weeks back, I was fortunate enough to meet the gorgeous Zoe Pearn. Zoe is one very talented chickie, and such an inspiration! Zoe designs paper products for My Minds Eye as well as digi scrapping goodies for Sweet Shoppe Designs.

I was also lucky enough to take one of Zoe's classes, and create this gorgeous layout using her pretty Ooh la la range!

Another layout that I've finally had a chance to photograph. Aiden hanging around after his playgroup party. I've been reading up on my camera manual and playing with the manual functions a lot more lately. I was really pleased with how this one turned out (even if it is a little out of focus).

Handmade goodies...

2009-10-30T16:12:00.007+10:00

Lillipilli Lane have just launched their gorgeous handmade clothing website.

Make sure you check out their blog too, as they are running a competition to celebrate the launch of their new website!!

You could win an item of your choice from their madeit store, handmade by the gorgeous Keryn! Check out the lillipilli lane blog for more info...

Our budding artist

2009-10-21T13:18:00.005+10:00

Erin's been loving painting her little heart out lately! I took this photo a couple of months ago, and was planning on scrapping it at our little get together at Flourish a couple of weeks ago. How time flies! Anyway, I finally got to scrap it on the weekend. It fit Karen's fresh challenge over at Scrap-Pile perfectly! Very hard not to add too many embellishments, but I really do love the end result, especially the soft colours.

I'm in "Handmade" Heaven!

2009-10-20T08:00:00.004+10:00

Woohooo!! I just found out that I won a $30 gift voucher over at Micky's Handmadies blog, to spend at "Handmade Heaven". I haven't had the pleasure of popping by yet, however this will get my butt moving! Owww.. I can't wait to check out all the gorgeous handmade products they have in store! Thanks so much, Micky! Looking forward to meeting the Handmade Heaven girlies too :)

2009-10-14T20:04:00.003+10:00

Ever since I started work on Keryn's website - lillipilli lane, I've been a bit addicted to checking out all the gorgeous handmade stuff that's out there... and on my journey, I discovered Handmade Heaven. I am so in love with all their goodies, and can't wait for an opportunity to take a little visit over there soon!

In the meantime, I'll just have to keep on entering their competitions. You too could win a $30 gift voucher if you head on over to the Handmadies blog.

Oh, and be sure to check out the upcoming Handmade Expo too! It will be held on Saturday 17th October from 8am to 2pm at the Ipswich Turf Club, Brisbane Rd, Bundamba. $2 entry for adults and kids are free. There will be a Guiness World Record attempt as well and over 1500 people are needed for Heads, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. Over 100 stalls of handmade goods for sale from kids clothing and accessories to cupcakes, fudge, ceramics, shabby chic, toys, jams & chutney's, greeting cards, timber goods, gourmet fresh and much more.

Picking strawberries

2009-10-12T16:44:00.008+10:00

We had a gorgeous day today with my SIL and her little boy at a nearby strawberry farm. The kids loved picking their own too, and they were divine!! Just like we used to grow at home. I wish I'd known about this months ago, as they're closing for the season next week. :( We'll definitely be back next year though!

PS check out Erin's tongue in this last pic... do you think she's loving the chocolate dipping sauce??? Just like her Mummy :)

A little bit of green

2009-10-12T16:10:00.003+10:00

I don't usually work with green, but Karen has inspired me to try and use it a little more. I do believe it's her favouritist colour in the whole wide world!

Liz has challenged us to make this gorgeous Dahlia (instructions here) and use it on a card. It's a gorgeous flower, and so easy to make! I've been loving these gorgeous Daisy Bucket papers.

This is a card for Liz's monochromatic challenge from WCMD last weekend. A little late, but I really wanted to give this a go, as I've never tried monochromatic before. Loved the result, but I tell you, it was a HUGE challenge not to add any other colours! Using the Daisy Bucket papers again, as well as labels 8, and a few new Christmas stamps I acquired the other day - Stampendous and Stamp It, I think?

World Card Making Day

2009-10-04T02:25:00.007+10:00

I had so much fun making cards for the WCMD challenges at Scrap Pile and Scrap Boutique tonight.

I loved making Karen's tri-fold card. Much easier than I thought, and looks fabulous all done! I do love these October Afternoon papers, even though they're old!

I did a couple of easy peasy Chrissy cards for Gill's challenge, using only 1 layer, 1 stamp (not coloured), and 1 embellishment. Loved these, and will definitely be creating some more before Christmas!

Manon gave some instructions for this cute little tag card. Very easy & fun to make! I used some more of my old Pink Paislee papers. I also made a little pocket to put a gift card in.

This one is for Liz's sketch challenge. I used craft and the back of some Chrissy paper ;)

Liz also challenged us to make a Christmas card with no boundaries! Love how this one turned out!

All things handmade

2009-10-02T20:48:00.003+10:00

A gorgeous friend of mine has some of her handmade clothing over at Handmade Heaven, and I just saw they're having a surprise giveaway. Go check it out if you have a chance! They have some gorgeous stuff!

Pink Paislee Pastels

2009-10-02T14:11:00.003+10:00

I've finally organised all my papers by manufacturer. I think I must be the last to do this in the entire scrapping world, but now it's done, and I'm loving it! As a result of my big clean-up, I found these gorgeous Pink Paislee papers hiding away, so just had to bring them to life!

This is Erin playing peek-a-boo in the cubby house. Love this pic and how her eyes really shine!

Here are our kids with my brother's boys. They all get on so well!

Look at the sky!

2009-09-23T14:51:00.005+10:00

I took these photos at lunch time of our view of the dust coming over from the dust storms. It's put a real eerie yellow tinge on everything, as well as a fine layer of red dust. Lucky I haven't cleaned the house for Aiden's party yet :)

The poor sun trying to shine through all the dust! Looks pretty spooky actually!

Circus

2009-09-22T23:10:00.005+10:00

We do so many fun and cool things with playgroup and I honestly don't know what I'd do without them. We've pretty much met up every week since our big kids were babies (nearly 4 years), and have formed such a great support network and friendship along the way. They are all such gorgeous girls, and would jump up to help at any chance. I'm so grateful for their friendship and support.

Here's a few photos of the circus we went to see today at Garden City. The kids absolutely loved it, and were in awe of the cool things they were doing. I'm sure Erin was taking note of all the aerial performances for future reference around the house!! LOL! Aiden loved the clown, and his jokes and the performances too :)

I've been playing around with the settings on my cameras after managing to read about 2 pages of the 2peas photo tutorial... obviously I need to read more, but I did get some okay shots out of my little point and shoot on manual settings.

Saying goodbye

2009-09-22T22:02:00.007+10:00

Today we had news that Al's Pop passed away. Pop was such an incredibly strong and patient man, who always wore a smile. He played such an important part in our lives, and we will miss him dearly. He loved the kids, and always asked after them. I am so thankful for the time I spent getting to know Pop through helping him collate a book of his past for Mayes Cottage a few years ago. Ever since then, we've shared a special bond, and we would often go around to help him with his latest computer problem. He would try almost anything, and embraced all the new technologies. He'd call me up to talk through his latest discovery on the computer or find out how to do something. I will dearly miss his phone calls and skype chats. I only wish I could have said goodbye and told him how much he meant to me!

Celebrating Mothers Day at our place in May. Pop's at the front with Nana.

Some boy layouts for a change :)

2009-09-16T22:27:00.010+10:00

I know a big smack on my bottom for not updating sooner, but here are a couple of layouts I did last week.

Aiden was so cute when he inquisitively asked, "Mum, are we having grasshopper meat for dinner?", as I pulled the roast chicken out of the oven. I couldn't stop laughing.

I used some recycled corrugated cardboard from a huge box I tore up from one of the kids toys. I just couldn't throw it out! I painted it with some Tim Holtz crackle paint. Loved the effect.

And our little Harry Potter. All dressed up for Becca & Zoe's Fairy and Wizard party. He wore Al's old school tie, a cape I bought from spotlight, the glasses $2 from Woolies and a hint of eyeliner for the scar! Easy peasy wizard outfit!

A gorgeous day with friends

2009-08-28T22:09:00.008+10:00

It's been way too long since I've scrapped, and sadly, the drought wasn't broken today, even though I had a fantastic time at a friend's place scrapping (more like chatting) with the girls. Thanks for the great company and yummy scrummy eats too!! So nice to have some adult conversation!

But, hey, I did manage to make a card for Manon's challenge at ScrapBoutique. I haven't added photos yet, so I'll post another day, but OMG I can say that I just adore the "never ending card idea"! Leone and I were mesmerised by this cool card. Check out the instructions over at Scrap Boutique. Definitely worth a go!

Since I don't have much to share in the way of scrapping lately, here are the layouts I did for the Stamp and Scrapbook Madness classes I taught back in June/July.

Some lemon loving...

2009-08-07T23:58:00.006+10:00

A little while ago my beautiful neighbours gave me a bunch of lemons picked fresh off their tree. While pondering what I could do with these little beauties, I found a scrummy recipe for Lemon Chicken which uses 'preserved lemons', which was thoughtfully proceeded by a recipe for preserved lemons! Perfect! I ended up making 2 jars of the lemons, with the intention of giving one back to them to put in their cupboard.

Well, today (6 weeks later!), I finally managed to do up some little tags, and a label using the gorgeous Labels 4 spellbinder that Karen graciously lent me for a 'little while'. Thanks sweetie! I will return them soon.

I took them over this afternoon with the recipe that I'd found in the magazine, and they loved the little package that I'd made. That made me smile! :) I'm so thankful for all the friends we've made since moving here. Our lives wouldn't be the same without them as a part of it!

Speed scrapping across the universe...

2009-08-07T23:23:00.007+10:00

LOL funny how those old songs just pop into your head at a totally irrelevant time... star trekking across the universe... sorry, it's getting late!

So, we've been speed scrapping tonight over at Scrap Pile. I created a nice little sketch for the girls to play with, and OMG they came up with some beauties in an hour and a half! Nice work girls!

Here's my sketch - using elements from Shabby Miss Jenn Designs Little Buckaroo Princess kit.

My paper based example

My digi scrapping example - again using elements from Shabby Miss Jenn Designs Little Buckaroo Princess kit.

and a card I made tonight using the sketch! (loving these new Kaiser papers!!)

Phew, I'm stuffed now! Leone came round to have a play, and she created a gorgeous layout too! I'm sure she'll put it up here soon :) We had some yummy choc coated strawberries and cherries to keep us busy too!!

Colouring with distress inks

2009-08-06T13:56:00.004+10:00

Check out this gorgeous tutorial on colouring with distress inksl! How easy does that look! Still love my H2Os though! Will be using a mixture of pencils, H2Os and distress inks from now on though! Love the softness of them all!

Going digital???

2009-08-04T21:34:00.012+10:00

I've been thinking about digital scrapping a lot lately. In fact, two of my favourite brands, Hero Arts and Kaisercraft have just started producing digital kits and stamps and all sorts of other yummy things digital. OMG it's totally freaking me out! Well, not really, but as much as I love digital designing, I just can't bear the thought of parting with my crafty, lumpy, bumpy goods, nor sitting at my computer for work and play!

I design websites and online graphics all day every day (well, while I'm working), and although I wouldn't give it up for the world, if there's one thing I could change, it would be sitting in front of a computer screen all day. I need a release, a rest from the screen. In fact, I can still see the words, "I could never sit at a desk all day" written all over my face when my Mum asked me what kind of job I wanted. And still, here I am sitting in front of a computer, behind a desk!

In my mind, I see the positives of digital scrapping:
- quicker
- cheaper
- unlimited products
- immediate access to products (once purchased)
- no need to print out individual photos

and the negatives:
- no hands on crafty work (which I so dearly love)
- would need to buy an A3 printer
- unsure of longevity of final print out (although I guess you could say the same about home-printed photos)

So, the dilemma of whether to scrap digitally or not continues... for now I might just try integrating a few little things into my cards and layouts, like these gorgeous Kaisercraft Apple Tree brushes and flourishes and see how I go!

I'd love to hear your thoughts about digital scrapping, and if you've ever tried it, what medium do you use to print them out on so they last?

A few cards and a roast!

2009-08-01T15:07:00.005+10:00

I've been having some fun playing with my new stamps and nesties. I've been trying out the gorgeous twinkling H2Os and distress inks... obviously still need lots of practice, but I'm loving playing :)

I made these 3 cards for Kylie's birthday card challenge over at ScrapBoutique.

This first one I used the gorgeous new Kaiser Pennyroyal papers. They are so rich and regal! I've added a couple of prima roses inked with pink distress ink. They look gorgeous in real life.

I tried out this cool technique with the cuttlebug and nesties, where you leave parts of the image outside of the nestability frame. I got the idea from Katarina. I really do love the effect, although it is quite a bit of work to cut it out neatly, and takes some time and patience!

I'm really loving the colours that I used on this image. I used a combination of twinkling H2Os and watercolour pencils for the shading. Karen gave me these gorgeous basic grey 6x6 papers, and the colours worked really well with the image. I also used distress inks, inkadinkadoo stamps and a fiskars lace border punch.

And finally, this is the Thursday (aka Sunday) Roast over at ScrapBoutique. I had such a great time following Manon's instructions, and I really love how it's turned out! I also made a flower (top right) using Liz's flower technique!

Vintage Moon cards

2009-07-27T21:28:00.008+10:00

I loved these gorgeous Pink Paislee Vintage Moon papers when I bought them, and I still do! This card is the second of Liz's birthday card projects. Loved making this cute flower in the middle. I used my giga and mega punches, and just hand cut out that shape on the right.

Love the vibrancy and the variety of patterns in this range too, and hoo could resist this cute little owl! :) I've cut him and the branch out, and I've used Helen's technique of raising the edges of the leaves with some scrapdots! Thanks lovie for the excellent tip!!! Mwah!!

Some scrappy stuff for a change :)

2009-07-26T19:25:00.004+10:00

I've really been inspired by some of the gorgeous projects that Liz has posted for the 2nd birthday celebrations at ScrapBoutique.

I saw this project on Jewls' blog and just had to have a go. I loved how easy it was to make, and only took about 30mins. I didn't decorate it much, as the papers were doing that nicely. Don't you just adore these gorgeous papers!! They are definitely my fav's of the moment!

Then I just wanted to keep scrapping... but the kids woke up! So, I set them to work cutting and pasting some of the goodies in their "useful box", which I created this card (another one of Liz's projects). I just adored this flower and will definitely be using this technique again soon! PS notice the super old papers I'm using up here.

More gorgeous Whiff of Joy stamps up for grabs!

2009-07-20T08:39:00.004+10:00

Want to own some gorgeous Whiff of Joy stamps :) Check out the Whiff of Joy blog for more details.

Scrapbooking can be dangerous!

2009-07-19T17:34:00.006+10:00

Yep, Erin has proved that scrapbooking can be dangerous! When she was 10mths old, she was playing on the floor in my scrap room, and must have picked up a tiny epoxy letter sticker (pictured below on the heart). Needless to say, we ended up at the Mater Hospital at 1am trying to remove it.

I designed this layout for Karen's challenge over at Scrap Pile.

The requirements were to use the following:
1. Lots of blue
2. Diecut cardstock
3. Transparency
4. Flowers and/or hearts
5. Ribbon

WOW... check out this blog candy!!!

2009-07-16T10:40:00.006+10:00

Wouldn't you just love to win these babies!!! Check out Crafty Goings On for more info on how you could win!

Creative juices...

2009-07-14T23:02:00.006+10:00

For some weird reason (most likely alcohol-induced) I began scrapping and card making like a woman possessed at the retreat. Although I didn't end up doing that much, I turned out a few layouts and cards that I was happy with.

I took this photo of Al just after a race at the State Titles in Gympie the weekend before last. I was actually testing out the aperture priority settings on my camera! They must have worked, cause everyone loves this photo of him, even Al himself!! I just hope I did it justice... this one was completely alcohol induced :)

This is Al, his 2 brothers and their Mum on Mother's Day this year. Loved this photo, but Al's hair is looking pretty weird... even he said so!! Al's on the far right.

This was my first create for the retreat. I tried mod podging the butterflies from a napkin, but I didn't peel the white layer off underneath, so it showed through a bit. I was still pretty happy with the end result though. Love this pic of Aiden and I on the steps of the cubby. He's such a cuddle pie!! Oh, and there's another one of Leone's famous lollipop flowers! Love them!! Thanks for showing me how to make them, Leone!

Here are the cards I made (sorry about the bad pics, I took them after dark :( )

I coloured the gorgeous Whiff of Joy stamp using Simonne's distress inks, and I just adored using them. I never even thought to use them before. Love the soft effect though! I added just a couple of those cute little roses (distressed them, and curled the stems), and they were the perfect addition. The heart card is from a PageMap sketch.

This pic is pretty dark, but these are really bright papers, and look much better in real life. These are the cards I created using some of the other PageMaps sketches. I also made a lollipop flower (thanks to Leone's instructions), and I used Simonne's gorgeous lace Martha Stewart punch!! Love it!

using up some 7gypsies scraps... a gorgeous StampinUp flourish & Martha Stewart lace punch, both courtesy of Simonne (both now on my MUST HAVE list), the gorgeous Prima roses that we ordered through Scrap Pile, and a quote stamp from Helen. Thanks girls for all your little additions to these cards!

and here's one I made just before I left for the retreat... I used copics to colour my new Whiff of Joy stamp that I won in Elisabeth Bell's blog candy! OMG those stamps are gorgeous!!!!! I used a mod podged napkin on transparency (thanks to KarenB), and some kindy glitz on the wings and clouds.

Simonne's Boogie

2009-07-14T21:49:00.005+10:00

She may have to bribe me with her Martha Stewart punches to take this off (especially that gorgeous lace border one)!!! LOL!!!

Retreat news

2009-07-14T14:19:00.012+10:00

I can't believe it's over, but we had the most fabulous time with the girls up at the Tablelands. Mel, thanks for looking after us and showing us the local sights in Malanda. I'll certainly have fond memories of my 31st birthday!

I took a heap of photos (as usual), so thought I'd share a few of the highlights from our little trip.

First things first, we went shopping!! Wahooo!!! AND I bought a Cuttlebug (or rather Al bought me a Cuttlebug for my birthday!). I loved having a play at Mel's place, and so did Leone (seen below performing her one-handed cuttlebug maneuvre).

We all scrapped up a storm...

Our wall of scrap...

We also managed to fit in a bit of sight-seeing while we were up there, and the countryside is just gorgeous... first stop, Gallo Dairyland... where they make the most scrumptious chocolates known to man (or woMAN!!!)

Rum and raisin, blackforest, coconut, mango, berry, caramel just to name a few. OMG they were yummy!!!

We also had a chance to check out Kuranda on the way home from picking the girls up from the airport on Thursday... Simonne tested out this gorgeous chair for us... loved that it was made from recycled railway tracks. How cool is that?

and Leone striking a pose too!

Kristy, Simonne and I

The mad old man coming down the hill on his homemade go-kart!

and then we headed up the road to taste some yummy Mango wines from the Golden Drop Winery.

On Saturday, Mel whipped up a delicious strawberries and cream sponge cake for my birthday! YUMMO!!! Thanks Mel, you're such a sweetie!!!

Our last night - having little drinkies

Simonne bought us all beanie kids that matched our personality as a special little surprise... can you tell who is who???

Just posing for the camera ;)

And a funny pic of Leone, Mel and I that I took on the way down the range when we stopped to check out the view...

The food was fabulous (thanks to Rosemary), the location was gorgeous (thanks Mel), and the shopping was great therapy (thanks Justine). You girls did a super job!

And a special thanks to Mel for organising and hosting the whole retreat, and the boys for putting up with Leone and I for the week! Can't wait to catch up again in September!

After a relatively painless trip home...

...I arrived home to a clean and tidy house and a gorgeous birthday cake that Al and the kids made for me, and YES, he decorated all by himself AND took this photo!!!! LOL! I think he's finally getting the hang of being married to a scrapper!!

What a birthday to remember!!! I'm so lucky to have such sweet friends and family. Thanks guys!

A couple of birthdays...

2009-06-21T20:34:00.005+10:00

Firsty, a HUGE happy birthday to a sweet friend's little girl, Emily, who turned 1 yesterday. Unfortunately I missed the party, but still got to create this gorgeous card for her :)

I really love using these Prima journalling cards that Mel gave me on cards... the funny thing was I said they weren't my style, well.... I take my words back Mel, but they are now my most favouritist thing in the world (well, apart from stamps!!)

The kids also went to one of their friend Hayley's 4th birthday party on Saturday, and I was so glad Al had to do the rushing around from one to the next! I actually modified the cute little Tilda card in the previous post to make it a "Happy Birthday" card, and the birthday girl absolutely adored it! It sure did stand out amongst all the Barbie cards!

I created this layout this afternoon while the kids were jumping all over me, trying to help in any way possible... Erin even had a go at my twinkling H20s!! OMG she was actually really good too --- at mixing all the colours together!! OMG I nearly screamed.. but she was so quiet and obviously engrossed in her work! I sooooo wish I had my camera on hand so I could show you!! She's such an arty little thing, loves drawing and painting!!

Anyway, here's the end result.

It's for Simonne's last sketch challenge over at Scrap Pile. I decided I needed to document my weight loss journey, and here's my first layout. I was trying to find a smaller (before) photo to put in the gap at the bottom right of the photo that's there, but the only one I could find was of me in my pj's, so might have to stick that on later!!

WAHOOOOO!!! I am getting soooooooooooooooooo excited about heading up to Cairns in a couple of weeks to spend some quality girlie time with my bestest scrappy friends in the world!! Leone & Mel, we're gonna have the bestest time ever!!! How many bottles do you think I'll be able to fit in my bag?????????

Right, well, that's pretty much it from me today... I was hoping to get some cards made after the layout, but after my little helpers efforts, I decided to quit while I was ahead! Maybe sleep time tomorrow?????

Just Magnolia challenge

2009-06-16T21:58:00.006+10:00

I've really been enjoying my colouring lately, AND I received these 2 gorgeous stamps in the mail today!!! Yippeeee!!! My first Magnolia's! So, I decided to enter a challenge on the Just Magnolia blog. It's also my entry for the Belles 'n Whistles Guest Design Team member call. So, wish me luck!

It's focus was paper piecing, and I've cut out 2 of the little butterflies in the background and pasted them on, as well as Tilda, holding a flower. I used my twinkling H20s again, but on canvas paper this time, which proved kind of difficult, but I love the end result - nice and textured. I left her arms and plaits unstuck, so they add dimension. I think she's kinda cute :)

Stamping, painting, blending and colouring....

2009-06-14T21:59:00.006+10:00

I haven't had much time to do anything else lately, however today I finally got a chance to put together a few little cards using the stamped images from the swap over at Scrap Pile.

I've used my copics for some and twinkling H20s for others. Comparing the two, I think I'm leaning towards the twinkling H20s at the moment, because I love the soft water colour effect, and the dazzling sparkle is like nothing else! Although I've found that certain images lend themselves to copics, while others are better with a softer look.

I'd love to hear your comments on what you like to colour your stamped images with.

Here are the two I coloured with twinkling H20s...

I just adore this cute little stamp that Sally sent in the swap. I think it may be Penny Black? A pleasure to colour, and I'm really pleased with how it turned out too!

Another one of Sally's cute little swap images. Who could resist this big cuddly bear!

And here are the ones I've used my copics with...

PS Thanks Tammy for the lovely stamped image of Tilda. I know it's been a long time coming, but here she is!!!

I love the rich gorgeous colours of the copics, and the ability to blend the colours seemlessly. A much bolder effect though than the soft pastel colours of the twinkling H20s.

and this cute little critter from the swap as well (I think it was KarenB's???).
I picked up this gorgeous Hero Arts background stamp at the convention last week :) Loving it :)

Thanks everyone for sending these gorgeous images for the swap. I have a heap more coloured, just need some time to make them into cards now!

Testing out my new babies... COPICS that is

2009-06-05T23:02:00.002+10:00

I've been pretty flat out with work lately, so haven't had much time to create (on paper anyway), and so I've been playing with my new COPICS during my lunch break... and I just love how quick and easy they are to apply and get great results. My shadows need some work (okay, a lot of work!), and when searching for some help I found this really cool COPIC MARKER DEMO on utube by Amy Reeder Hadley and I am in awe yet again! I just wish I could draw like she can! Check it out if you get a minute. It's awesome!

PS Will hopefully get some time to create over the weekend, so my coloured images can find a home on a card somewhere, and might even find their way on here :) Maybe!!

Belle's n Whistles - check it out!

2009-06-05T22:49:00.005+10:00

Check out the new Belle's n Whistles site for more of Elisabeth's gorgeous stamps. Elisabeth even mentioned the SASS sketch she did for me is being turned into a stamp, so that will be the first on my list!!

Chasing butterflies and more...

2009-05-31T17:55:00.004+10:00

I love this stamp too (uhm... okay, I love all of them), but this would have to be my very favourite. I've put this one into the swap at Scrap Pile, so hope you gals enjoy colouring it as much as I did.

I made this card for my sister-in-law, Hailey! A very Happy Birthday for yesterday!!!

I also just whipped up this cute little card for a friend of ours, who has just had an adorable little boy, Matthew.

I've fallen in love with...

2009-05-31T14:16:00.011+10:00

my new stamps! Yep, I'm hooked on the super cute Sugar Nellie stamps!!

Mel challenged me to make a card using one of the stamped images before the end of the weekend. So here it is...

although I have a feeling you will be seeing a few more of these in the upcoming weeks ;)

Thanks sweetie, and your little Tilda card is just gorgeous!

I'm just waiting for my order of COPIC markers to arrive now, and then I'll really be crusing!! I just used some old ZIG photo markers I had lying around to colour little Daisy, but they started pilling the paper. I also tried using watercolour pencils, but it just took too way long for me - for those of you who don't know me well, I'm not exactly patient!

I also got to play with these gorgeous 7gypsies papers that I've been ogling for a LONG time, and finished Karen's challenge over at Scrap Pile. A little late, but glad I got it finished, as I really adore Karen's work, and didn't want to miss this opportunity to tap into her style!

The photo is Mum and I on Mother's Day at the Bell Tower Restaurant in Booie. It's gorgeous up there, and we had such a fantastic day! So glad we made the effort to travel home to see her, even if it was only for the day :) I think Mum really enjoyed herself too :)

and here's a close up of the cute little homemade transparency retro flower that Mel made for me while she was here in April. She stamped an autumn leaves stamp onto some scrap transparency and punched little retro flowers. Nice and easy and a really cheap embellie :)

OMG I just won...

2009-05-27T16:05:00.011+10:00

the most gorgeous blog candy in all of blog world!

I recently discovered Elisabeth Bell's gorgeous Sugar Nellie stamps, and followed the links right back to her blog, where I discovered a super cool blog candy comp, which I just couldn't resist entering!! Anyway, so I submitted my comment, and was just checking back today to see if a winner was announced, when I saw MY NAME right there in the winner's spot!!!! OMG I was dancing around the room I was soooooo excited!!!

So here's what I've won!!!

The "Elisabeth Bell" Whiff of Joy Guardian Angel stamp set
a shirt designed by Elisabeth featuring one of the designs from one of her galleries
PLUS she will create my memory into a sketch and place it in her SASS Gallery

Thanks so much Elisabeth for your generosity and for sharing your gorgeous artwork with the world!!!!

You can check out all the details over at Elisabeth Bell's blog and while you're there, you just have to check out her galleries, her images are just amazing!!!

AND to top it all off I just got my first order of Sugar Nellie stamps delivered this week from the UK, and I'm in love!! AND I have just ordered some of the fabulous COPIC markers to colour them in with!! Ros, I think I'll be joining you in colouring heaven very shortly!! LOL!!

Final touches...

2009-05-24T16:42:00.006+10:00

I started this layout at the Brissy Scrap Pile gathering in April. It was sitting on my desk for ages, and I just couldn't seem to get it right, but then today it just all fell into place. I used the souffle pen for the border around the page and for the fake stitching around the circle.

I just love Erin's curls, they are just so gorgeous. I hope she keeps them as her hair grows longer :)

Mel started this gorgeous layout for me at the gathering as well, and I just added the title, a little bling, the journalling card and the inked paper doily. I love how it turned out! Thanks Mel, you're a sweetie :)

This is Erin at her 2nd birthday party. A gorgeous friend of mine, Julie, from Bee Happy Puppets painted all the kids faces - she is the most exquisite face painter ever! The detail was just amazing. The kids all looked so cute, but my favourite of the day has to be the birthday girl!!

Debbie's done it again!!!

2009-05-18T21:12:00.007+10:00

Check out this awesome blog candy over at Debbie's "Passion for Crafts" blog...

I know there's not a thing in there that I don't want!!!! Copic Markers, Nesties, Fiskars border punch, Stamps, Paper, Flowers, Buttons and ribbons... Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...

Heidi Swapp Invisibles

2009-05-18T16:01:00.007+10:00

I was over at Ros' blog recently checking out some of her gorgeous work, and I saw she'd used a very cool Heidi Swapp Invisible PP, and I just couldn't resist the temptation!!! OMG I am loving them!!

Here's my latest creation, and Leone's challenge from Scrap Pile...

I used blue acrylic paint and then a tiny bit of pink over the top and then sanded it back until I achieved my desired contrast.

I also made a few cards for kids parties on the weekend, using some of the gorgeous Prima journalling cards that Mel gave me when she was visiting a couple of weeks ago!

I'll definitely be using these again!! Thanks Mel for the inspiration!

Altering flowers

2009-05-14T15:32:00.005+10:00

I just came across this cool post about different ways to alter plain flowers... check it out:
Poppicrafts - altering flowers.

Just had to share!!

Some serious blog candy

2009-05-14T15:18:00.004+10:00

On my blog travels this afternoon I found this gorgeous site of Kellie Winnell's. To celebrate 20,000 hits, she's giving away a super pack of blog candy (including Magnolia & Sugar Nellie stamps!!!) While you're there, make sure you check out her gorgeous cards! Her colouring is to die for! Well, don't just sit there, check it out now!!!!

I also found Elisabeth Bell's blog (after a long search using the wrong spelling). Elisabeth is the talented artist behind the Sugar Nellie stamps that I'm in awe of at the moment. They remind me of the imagery from Strawberry Shortcake and Holly Hobby from when I was a wee little girl. Completely gorgeous... definitely go check out her work... oh and her generous blog candy :)

Inspired by Hero Arts

2009-05-13T23:17:00.007+10:00

Yep, I know, I'm a slacko... caught up with life yet again, and no time to update. Seems to be happening far too often these days.

Regardless, I have been finding time to be a little creative (albiet the card making variety) and have been having a few late nights since Al's been on arvo shift.

Here's a card I made for Linda's "window card" challenge over at Scrap-Pile. Had lots of fun playing around with these cute little critters from the Crate Paper glitter diecuts pack :) Thought I'd have a play stamping on the ribbon here too! Love the grunge effect it came out with.

I'm also a bit in love with Hero Arts stamps at the moment, and have found myself regularly browsing through their catalog and blog. So I thought I'd share some of my fav finds. I'd love to get my hot little hands on these babies:

Designer Woodgrain
Design Block Clouds
Design Accents, A little note
Clear Designs, Whoo loves you! (I know I'm a little late on the whole owl thing, but I'm loving them at the moment)
Art flowers - Summer

{ hint, hint, my birthday's just around the corner }

I've also been having a play with some notecards, my new dotted swiss embossing folder and some cute little Stampendous stamps :)

And finally the card I made for Mum for Mother's Day. Love these new Graphic 45 papers. Aren't they gorgeous and rich! Loving those Maya Road velvet flowers too! Yummo!!

Sneaky peeks...

2009-05-06T16:00:00.009+10:00

Well, I'm a wee bit excited, because a little while ago, I was asked to teach a couple of layout classes at Stamp and Scrapbook Madness and I've just finished preparing them! Wahoo!!

So, I guess you want to see what I've been up to? Here are some sneaky peeks for now...

3 patterns, 2 ways class - This cute little Crate Paper range was so much fun to work with!

Paper Piecing class - These Basic Grey Lime Rickey papers are just divine - so rich and vibrant!

but you'll just have to pop on down to Stamp & Scrapbook Madness (58 Holdsworth St, Coorparoo) if you want to see the real deall!!

My first class (3 patterns, 2 ways) will be 10am-12pm next Wednesday, 13 May! Wish me luck!!! Check out the Stamp & Scrapbook Madness class timetable for more info.

2009-04-30T22:11:00.003+10:00

It might be a little late to win the blog candy, but just check out that gorgeous colouring on Debbie's "Passion for Crafts" blog. Thanks for the link Ros!!! OMG how cute are those stamps :) I'll definitely be heading back soon!

Photos are up!!!

2009-04-28T01:53:00.006+10:00

You can check them ALL out HERE! And I mean ALL!
Just let me remind you, that it was upon your request that I should publish them all!!!!

Here's a selection of the bloopers. Sorry girls, I couldn't resist!

Sorry Linda, I just couldn't bring myself to delete this photo. Every time I look at this photo it brings a tear to my eye ( a pee'ing myself tear!!) :)

And this one, well, how can I explain this??? I guess we should've stuck with the purple wall for the backgrounds, hey girls!

Mel & Kristy being silly

and some of the goodies.... Karen & Leone

Mel, Fiona & Jaki

Mel & Leone

Mel & Linda

Kristy & I

Helen & Mel

Mel & Shan

Linda & Leone

Can't wait for next year now!!!!!

If you want any prints of the ones that are in the gallery, but not on here in full size, please PM or email me your details and I'll forward them to you on email or on CD.

Upsy Daisy

2009-04-26T16:53:00.007+10:00

Can you believe this is all I have to show for 9hrs of scrapping??? AND I just realised I didn't even add a title! Will be adding that shortly! LOL!

Erin loves watching in the Night Garden, and loves singing and dancing to the "Upsy Daisy" song!

I used the new Fancy Pants Summer range, along with a cute little butterfly thanks to Mel's new Spellbinder and Leone's Cuttlebug! I also used my new Heidi Swapp mask (not as a mask, but as a template), and a cute little checked ribbon I got from the bargain bin at Spotlight on Friday!

What a HOOT!

2009-04-26T16:17:00.007+10:00

What a fantastic afternoon/evening we had yesterday with the Scrap Pile girls! It was so lovely to meet you all in person and have the pleasure of scrapping with you for 9 whole hours, give or take a few of chatting & eating!! Thanks everyone who bought the yummy nibblies too! Mmmm... gave way to my diet for the evening, but well worth it!!

Mel & Helen left early this morning, headed for Cairns. Hope you had a great trip home, girls. I bet you are both resting up big time, after your weekend in the big smoke!! We're gonna miss you girls!

Linda, this little teaser of pics is for you! Now, these are the ones you are behaving in, do you still want me to post the others????

Still trying to work out how I'm going to post the rest without crashing blogger.... but they are coming very soon!!!

More Mumma Bushka creations...

2009-04-19T14:55:00.004+10:00

I am soooo loving these Kaisercraft papers at the moment. Can you tell????
A little card made with the scraps from my layout. I had actually punched this paper to be the backing for the photo on the previous layout, but it just didn't work like the white. So, I thought I'd put it to good use!!

and the inside...

I just couldn't stop creating with these gorgeous papers, so I moved on to making some thank you cards for Erin's Birthday party. Aren't they just so cute. They are only small (3x2.5in), but I loved the way I could use the back or front coordinating paper and they all still looked gorgeous. Plus, I only used about 2-3 pieces of PP for the layout, the card above and these cards, and I still have heaps left over!

Go kart graphics...

2009-04-17T21:24:00.011+10:00

Here's what I've been up to in the wee hours for the past week :)

Designing go kart graphics for Al's kart. I've learnt heaps about Illustrator CS4 in the process, although at one stage wanted to kick its butt, but I refrained, and asked an expert, who set me on the right track. Ended up saving me many hours! Thanks Cam!

My strict instructions were to use light blue, NO FLOWERS (see comment below), no orange and I don't care what else you do, just make it look good!

So, having said that, here' s the previous version.

Al wasn't impressed with the attention the gerbera brought him at the karting meetings :) hehehe... but baby, it's my signature flower!!! LOL! He also didn't like the black and orange, as most karts have those colours. He wanted something a little different that would stand out, but in a good way!!

Here's the old graphics on the kart :)

Can't wait to see how the new ones turn out :)

Loving Kaisercraft's Mumma Bushka

2009-04-17T15:57:00.007+10:00

First of all I just want to thank each and every one of you for leaving such beautiful comments on my blog. I must admit, I tend to neglect my poor little blog from time to time, but your lovely comments keep me going. So a heartfelt thanks for taking the time to drop by and leave your little mark here :)

Now, as for the scrapping, I've been a teensy eansy bit busy today, doing not much of what I should have been doing, but just couldn't resist using these awesome Mumma Bushka papers from Kaisercraft. I so wish I had visited my LSS before the DT call was due. The grey background paper is actually from a really old Kaisercraft range that I had in my stash. I added a Prima crystal flourish and have revived my old retro flower punches with some new ideas from Gabrielle Pollaco's blog (link on sidebar). Mel introduced me to her blog a little while ago, and her work is just so gorgeous and rich. Her pages are like individual works of art, and have so much detail in each one. I also tried her technique of tearing the paper on the side to reveal another layer of scrumptious paper, and loved how it added some balance with the bottom right corner. I also used a gorgeous Stampendous butterfly stamp inked with versamark and chalked with various shades of yellow/oranges.

This cutsie little card was the result of a challenge over at Scrap Pile to create a shaped card (do I get bonus points for using up my scraps???). I am sooo in love with these gorgeous rich papers atm. I just drew the outline on a card freehand, and cut it out, then covered with the 2 different papers.

Card fest

2009-04-15T11:38:00.003+10:00

I had heaps of fun yesterday arvo making some cards using offcuts from a layout, thanks to Mel's super idea! Thanks also to Linda, who supplied some inspiring sketches, which kick-started me.

I used mostly Kaiser PP here with a few of my fav stamps and bling here and there! If you look closely, you'll even notice I even whipped out my retro flower punch girls! :)

I got the idea for this patchwork design from my Mother in law, Jenny. It didn't quite turn out as I expected, but it's still quite a nice effect.

Still loving these BG papers. So pretty and girly!

I got the idea for using a journalling card as a base from Linda. What a fabo idea! I love how easy it was to make too!

So, from now on, I'm going to try and use up my scraps as I go, so hopefully my "scrap" box doesn't get any fuller! After all, it is "Scrap" booking, right!

Cuttlebug Challenge -- Spa Retreat [ 1- 3 May ]

2009-04-13T11:11:00.008+10:00

Check out these awesome prizes!

Everyday they will be giving out 1 cuttlebug machine and folders, so you have 3 chances of winning 1 :)
* restrictions applies..

Major Grand Prize!
1 Epson 900 Printer including 3 months worth of cartridges..
* restrictions applies..

Runner Up
1 Cricut Expression Machine including the New cartridge not out yet, Home Decor..
* restrictions applies..

CPS #110

2009-04-08T21:36:00.005+10:00

Here's the CPS sketch

and my interpretation of it.

Here's my first card using a Card Positioning System (CPS) sketch. I had great fun playing with this one. Tried to keep it as simple as possible for my first go. I just couldn't resist using these gorgeous Kaiser papers. I've had them sitting in my drawer for way too long.

Happy Birthday Nick!!

2009-04-06T17:09:00.001+10:00

It was Al's brother's birthday last Thursday, and we totally missed it. Naughty us! So, we went round for a belated happy birthday BBQ last night, and I whipped up this card for him from some scraps of a layout I've been working on.

I bought some metallic rub-ons at the Scrapbook Expo last year and I just found them in my drawer and they were just what this grungeboard arrow needed to make it pop. Not sure how you're supposed to stop it from rubbing off though?

Love these photos of the kids...

2009-04-03T21:54:00.006+10:00

We got home from playgroup on Tuesday, and the kids were really happy and just mucking around out the front of the house, so I thought, what the heck, and grabbed my camera, and what do you know, they actually turned out okay! It really was the perfect day for it, nice bright blue sky etc. etc....

Anyway, I've been having a play in Photoshop and here's what I came up with.

^Love this one. I was lying on the ground and Erin was actually jumping on my tummy! LOL!! This is probably one of the best photos I've ever taken - a big fluke though! Love it with the blue sky behind her.

Here's Aiden mucking around with the rings that came with a maccas toy from the party :) Couldn't have timed this shot better, again, a big fluke :) OMG though, I just realised how much his teeth have moved from sucking his thumb, have to get him out of that habit quick smart!!

and this is the original photo I took of the kids in front of the garage door...

which I played around with in photoshop til it looked like this...

I adjusted the curves, then exposure to give it that washed out look. I love the end result, and can't wait to scrap them now :) I have the perfect papers in mind. Maybe this is just what I need to get my mojo going again!

No mojo...

2009-04-02T00:37:00.005+10:00

Is it the weather? Is it lack of sleep, or is it just that I have too much going on in my life at the moment?

Whatever it is, it's really bugging me! I usually love to create in my scrap room, but I haven't ventured, or wanted to venture there for quite a while now, and I'm just not feeling good about that.

I want to scrap, but when I do, I just end up sitting there like a school kid in an exam, mind wandering, looking out the window, anything but the task at hand, is a welcome distraction. I think I might have to flick through some old mags to see if some inspiration strikes. Wish me luck...

My baby butterfly turns 2!

2009-03-30T14:51:00.007+10:00

We couldn't have asked for a more perfect day yesterday. We celebrated Erin's 2nd birthday in the back garden. There were gorgeous butterflies buzzing around, and some tigers, puppy dogs and pirates too!

The kids all had such a fun time getting their faces painted, and watching Julie, from Bee Happy Puppets with her cute little puppets.

Erin loved Chloe the Bear and the kids had so much fun playing and singing along with Julie.

I can't thank Julie enough for coming along to entertain the kids, and she did such a fantastic job painting the kids faces! Thanks Julie!

Here are some piccies from the day...

My bestest bud, Belinda, her Mum, my Mum, and me... we've known each other since we were 3! Gonna miss you Bel, when you go away next year! xoxo

Our painted little family :)

Complete with roaring tiger

and fluttering butterfly... ready for take off...

Needless to say, we all slept real well last night!!!

Ros, this one's for you :) Not the best pic of me, but it does show Julie's gorgeous face painting...

Butterflies everywhere

2009-03-26T16:02:00.003+10:00

I bought these gorgeous butterfly cutouts from Riot last week, then painted them pink, purple and green both sides with Kaiser paint. Then I let the kids loose with KindyGlitz! We're going to string them up and hang them outside for Erin's party on Sunday. Surprisingly, there wasn't much mess to clean up afterwards either. A great activity to remember for a rainy day :)

Nearly two.

2009-03-25T23:41:00.004+10:00

Our sweet little girl is nearly two, and it's difficult to comprehend really. After all, it feels like just the other day we were carrying her home from the hospital. Now she's a proper little lady who loves wearing jewellery, playing barbies, dress-ups, and dancing around the house. She certainly livens our little household up, and we wouldn't have it any other way. Her gorgeous smile lights up the room and makes me so proud to be her Mummy! It's been a huge year for Erin, as you can see... she's been busy growing up :)

Here she is at her first birthday party... and hardly any hair!

and at her baptism in March 08...

She went from sitting in a highchair to sitting on a booster seat at the table...

At 16 months decided she wanted a big bed just like Aiden...

She enjoyed dancing at the Playschool concert

and was mesmerised by the Wiggles :)

She's learning the concept of sharing with other people... mostly Aiden...

She had her very first hair cut at 18mths

Went on her first camping trip to Inskip in November 08 :)

We weaned her off her dummy at 22mths...

and at nearly two, has become a real little character...

We love you right up to the sky and back, missy moo!

Mummy & Daddy xoxo

How's this for meeting in the middle?

2009-03-25T22:01:00.004+10:00

Okay, so I took all your comments on board. Mel, I've made the square on the left side smaller. Donna, I've added the colourful graphic back in (on the left), cause I loved it too :) and I've also made the silhouette lighter as per your suggestion. Jaki, I think you'll love it now, since it's a bit of both! LOL!!! Well I think it looks much better for all your suggestions, so I just want to send you all a little something in the mail for helping me make my blog prettier!! YAY!!! I have your addresses Mel & Jaki, Donna would you mind PMing me yours. I'm not sure I have it?

More changes...

2009-03-25T12:50:00.009+10:00

Yep, I've been playing again! Thanks for all your feedback on my previous design, however I feel it just wasn't me!

So, I went the complete opposite and created 2 minimalistic designs - with a lot less fuss and a hint of bright and fresh. Much more me :)

I'd love to hear which of the new designs you prefer or if you like the old one. You can vote over here -->

Version 1 - as currently displayed

Version 2

Complete overhaul

2009-03-24T02:44:00.003+10:00

I've been dying to rename and re-template my blog for ages now, and for some reason, my creative juices flow better in the wee hours of the morning!

So, here it is... ta da... what do you think?? I'm still not sold on the colours, but would love to hear your feedback. I tried to make them easy on the eyes, as there's nothing worse than bright colours screaming out at you from a dark background.

I used the Always Enchanted digital scrap kit designed by Cinzia Loosemore, with a few little additions of my own, then skinned it in Blogger.

Thank you card

2009-03-15T22:00:00.001+10:00

A quickie card for Linda's challenge over at Scrap-Pile! The sketch is by Valerie Salmon, and I'm loving it!

Backyard Blitz!

2009-03-09T16:24:00.012+10:00

BEFORE...

AFTER...

What a transformation! It hasn't happened overnight, but it has happened. Ever since we built the cubby for the kids for Christmas I have wanted to make the back garden into a nice play area for the kids. So, we've finally made it happen!!!

What a huge weekend it's been. I have loved every minute of it though! Saturday we spent all day creating this little oasis in the backyard for the kids (and so Al doesn't have to mow around all the swings etc..!! ). It was my idea, hence my project, and Al didn't want much to do with it (he hates gardening), but he willingly helped shovel tonnes of mulch into the garden all day, while I did about 6 trips to the garden centre for refills. Now that's no small feat, coming from someone who has always been scared to drive anywhere with a trailer on!! So, by the end of the day, I was quite confident at reversing the trailer (after about 10 goes that is!!), hooking the trailer up and taking it off myself, although I did need some help pushing it into the carport! I was quite impressed with my new-found independence.

I even planted a little mini garden with the aggies that Deb gave me ages ago (which had to be dug up when the cubby went in. Thanks Deb!!! The kids love them!

The other side of the garden.

Aiden & Ralph loving the new sandpit!

The kids loved helping too, getting in there with the shovel. Aiden found heaps of witchety grubs in the compost heap, so that kept him amused most of the day. He loved digging and uncovering them all, and we even found a Mummy one, it was massive about 3cm round. Erin loved tipping them all out of Aiden's bucket! (surprise, surprise!).

Anyway, after hours of slaving over the shovel, it was so nice to sit in the garden and play in the sandpit with the kids! Which is exactly what we did yesterday afternoon when it was all finished! As I shoveled the last load of mulch onto the garden, I had such an immense feeling of satisfaction! I felt so empowered, and motivated. I even managed to wash Al's car for him (to try and make up for the lost usb cable)!

Al raced up at Gympie yesterday, and came 5th. Not as good as he has done up there, but he knows what he did wrong at least, so will hopefully be moving up the ranks next race! I was in a teeny, little bit of trouble before he left though, because I had accidentally left a usb cable for his data logger at work (oopsie)... after a quick trip into work today on my day off, I thankfully found it!!! Phew. He got to test out his new racing suit that the kids and I got him for his birthday. Hoping we can get to the next race to check it out! Now he wants me to design new graphics for his kart... he's getting a bit sick of his flower ones!! Just when everyone got to know him as the flower boy too!!! LOL!!

Anyway, that's pretty much it for our weekend. Hoping to get stuck into some scrapping this weekend. And although I did get a card done for a Scrap Pile challenge, I haven't really had a chance to do much real scrapping for ages. Wish me luck!

Things to look forward to! YAY!

2009-03-02T14:21:00.009+10:00

After 30 years, I've finally worked out what makes me tick! haha.. no comments please!! I've found that having goals and things to look forward to is a part of me, and if I don't have something to look forward to, I either get distracted and don't get anything done, or get very depressed. SO, to make sure neither of these things happen, I'm going to start making plans in advance so I have lots of little things to look forward to!

Needless to say, organising Erin's 2nd birthday party for the end of the month has been heaps of fun! We are going to have a butterfly & bug party and a friend of mine, Julie from Bee Happy Puppets is going to do a puppet show and face painting. Erin just loves Fritzel the Dog and we listen to him quite regularly, while she dances her little heart out!!

Here are Erin's party invitations that have been keeping me busy for the last few nights...

I downloaded the butterfly template from Bugs and Fishes. I did try this one, but after about 3 ripped attempts, I gave up!

I've also made a huge decision to lose 10kgs (the remainder of my baby weight)!! Yep, you heard right, 10kgs!! So I've joined Jenny Craig last week, and today was my first weigh-in, and, wait for it.... I've lost 1.8kgs so far!! Still a long way to go, but I can see myself losing the weight day by day, especially around my shoulders and my hips. I have been really strict with myself though and only eating the things on the menu plan. I'm surprised how easy it's been so far actually, well apart from a few sugar cravings, it's been a breeze. I just have to keep positive and motivated, and I'll be fine. I would like to try and get in a bit of exercise this week though and I'm sure I'll feel much better.

My treat for losing the weight is going to the Scrap-Pile Retreat in the middle of July, so am really looking forward to flying up to the Atherton Tablelands and joining the other girls from the Pile and having a ball! I'm sure Jus & Mel have heaps of fun in store for us all!! YAY!!

We've also been busy turning the back garden into a kids oasis!! Even though it's not quite finished yet, the kids are loving it so far! Especially their new sandpit! Check out Erin on the tractor!!

This before pic of the yard - before the cubby & the swings.

and here's a nearly finished pic... note Ralph looking quite at home there in front of the cubby :)

The brown strip is going to be the garden's edge and all the kids play things are in the garden now (so Al doesn't have to mow around them!) We still have to put the weed-matting down and buy the softfall mulch to go under the swings and then the rest will just be filled in with regular mulch.

After pic coming soon...

On another note, I'm feeling like my creative juices are running at an all-time low at the moment, either that or they're all being used up at work. I guess that's okay, but I'd love a chance to scrap again soon. I have so many things piling up on my scrapping 'to do' list! Argh!!! So watch this space :)

I'm going to try and update my blog at least weekly from now on to avoid mammoth posts (like this one) in the future!!

Have a lovely week everyone!

As much as we can...

2009-02-16T16:22:00.003+10:00

Like Sarah Gladman {aka Leonardo's Apprentice) I couldn't help but feel that there wasn't enough we could do from here to help the Victorian Bushfire survivors, so I willingly took up the challenge to create a couple of layouts to add to her ever growing collection to send off to Victoria to help the survivors to start rebuilding their lives one step at a time.

If you would like to join in, I'm sure Sarah would be more than happy to send you her address. Just leave a comment on her blog so she knows where to send the address to.

Here are the layouts I've done today...

Our little FASHIONISTA

2009-02-02T19:35:00.001+10:00

Couldn't resist scrapping these pics that my lil sis took of Erin on Monday...