In Joyful Retrospect

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2011-11-21T17:33:00.000+10:30

Some Chrissie Cards

2011-11-21T17:32:00.000+10:30

2011-04-30T14:21:00.000+09:30

Well, I think this was my longest absence yet. Hopefully I will get back into the swing of things soon!! These cards were all so much fun to make. I found a pad of 50 stripes and spots papers for $15.00. I think that is 12 cents a sheet. All the labels are handmade using rubons on card stock. These were all a very cheap alternative to buying ready made cards at the store. I used a black pen to draw on stitched borders to make them look a little more dimensional. Hope everyone is well!! Looking forward to blog hopping soon to see what everyone has been up to.

Last one for the day

2010-11-09T12:06:00.003+10:30

Last one for the day!! This is the off-the-page project I subbed for the Scrapbooking Memories Masters Competition. It had to be something you could you use in everyday life. I put all our favourite recipes in the folder. I had a ball using all sorts of embellishments I would not normally use. I found a use for the puffer stickers and foam lettering I couldn't seem to find the right project for. There are pockets for those recipes we are yet to try and I have a heap more pages already prepared to add any future favourite recipes too!! XXHave a great day!!

It's a record

2010-11-09T11:06:00.001+10:30

That's right two posts in one day......waiting for the floor to dry so I thought I'd post the double page layout I entered in the Scrapbooking Memories Master's Competition. This one had to be about your history, double page with memorabilia on the page. I have tucked a love note in an old library card pocket on the page to keep it secret but it will be great for the kids to look back at. Again I LOVE THE COLOURS. There is a lot of cutting and layering. I created the glitter flower on the page by cutting out a rose and leaves and using it as a stencil. Then I pasted dimensional magic over the stencil and poured Making Memories glitter on the top. I carefully removed the stencil and the rose and leave shape was created in glitter. I did paint a little more dimensional magic and added more glitter on the design to give it a better shape. One more project to go.

It's Been Awhile

2010-11-09T09:56:00.003+10:30

It's been awhile I know but life gets so busy sometimes!! I finally have some work to post so I'm back to share. I submitted an entry to the Scrapbooking Memories Masters Competition this year. I found it hard to get everything done on time but I just made it. I received it back this week so I thought I'd share. Although I missed out I love what I put together and it will take pride of place around the house somewhere. On of the requirements for this layout were to embellish the page with something you did not buy for scrapbooking. I used a broken hair clip, some tissue paper flower cut outs (the lovely red roses) pasted on the page and I made red tissue paper roses. I LOVE THE COLOURS on this layout. The layout is about how I am starting to get some "ME TIME" and prioritising my health and fitness more and in doing so I can feel my old self coming back.
I have some more projects from the competition to post soon. XX

Some Photos of the Deb Ball

2010-08-05T19:10:00.001+09:30

Check out the beautiful Ellie. Such an honour to be asked to take photos for her deb ball. It was a lovely night.

Scrap Street Magazine - Discovery Drive

2010-05-29T14:03:00.002+09:30

Awhile ago I stumbled across this fantastic online Scrap Magazine - Scrap Street Magazine and subbed some of my work to the mag. I am so excited (although a little late) to introduce you to the magazine. I have three layouts in the Discovery Drive section of the mag. This month's work and artists are as usual - remarkable. Go through and read about the concept of the mag and check out this issue and others. It is a fantastic innovative idea. I have a few of my old layouts to post to forefill a request by the mag. I feel sooo chuffed!!! Have a great week.

The photography course

2010-05-13T19:21:00.004+09:30

Well I finally have a bit of time to check over my notes from my photography course. The first week was all about terminology. We had to get out camera manuals out with our camera and look at what settings we had. Some people have point and shoot auto cameras and there are a couple of SLRS in the group. I didn't realise that most of your camera's settings and abilities are written in the back of the manuals! Then we talked about the definitions in quite basic terms:

Pixels: is short for picture elements. They are colour squares that make up a digital image. Each pixel is one colour. A colour image is made up of thousands of tiny pixels.

What is the difference between digital and optical zoom? Optical zoom is the true zoom function. The optical brings the image closer to you whereas digital zoom will enlarge a section of an image to make it look larger and closer. When you are buying a digital camera the lecturer suggests looking at the optical zoom over the digital zoom. Not sure I quiet get this yet but I am sure it will click soon!?!

Resolution: is the measurement of the output quality of an image. The better the resolution the larger the image can be printed. Generally 3MegaPixel is big enough (right up to poster size).

DPI is Dots per inch and refers to print media. DPI is used when referring to an image on paper. So after the image is printed the resolution is referred to as dots per inch.

PPI is pixels per inch and it refers to electronic media. When referring to an image on the screen we use PPI to measure the resolution. I have seen these acronomins somewhere (maybe on photoshop somewhere) but I can't think where.

JPEG files. The advantage for saving an image as a jpeg file - when saved as a jpeg file it is compressed more than other files and therefore you can save more files. Jpeg automatically compresses photos so that you don't have to worry about it. Most programs will open Jpeg files. A disadvantage of saving as a jpeg file is that everytime you save the image it will get smaller however these days our images as quite large and loosing a small amount of resolution should not affect the image. i.e. to print out a poster size photo (28cm X 36 cm) 3 megapixels is suitable. I am trying to find the graph they gave for the best resolution for different size photos. When I find it I will put it up.

The lecturer gave us a couple of websites to have a look at too. I just checked out the Kodak Consumer Site. It is a great source of quite simple descriptions of everything so if you are looking for a bit more detail check it out.

Uploading is sending an file to another device and downloading is receiving a file from another device.

Now the tricky stuff:
Apertureis the lens opening. The lecturer described it like and eye in different lights. When we are in a dark room our pupil (the black thing) is quite large. It is large to absorb as much light as it can get. When we are in a light room our pupil is small because it has enough light. It is the same thing for a camera lens. The darker an area is the larger the aperture required and the opposite is required for a well lit area. Now the tricky bit. Aperture is measured in F-stops. The greater the aperture required the lower the F-Stops. Check out your own camera for the Aperture setting. My aperture setting is shown as Av on the camera. I had a play in different lighting and it was interesting the result.

When you play with the aperture your shutter speed will be affected or if you are on completely manual setting you will need to change your shutter speed to correspond with the aperture. The shutter speed governs how long the shutter will be open and hence how much light will be let in. If you are in a dark spot the shutter speed will be slower. This makes the shot more susceptible to camera shake and blur. A tripod is recommended.
A fast shutter speed could be used for the snow or the beach. A slower shutter speed can be used for an overcast day. Think that will do for today. In writing this I am hoping that things will become clearer for myself. My lecturer says it will only get clearer with practice.

We also did the photographic principals which was fun. Basically these are some principals which give a photo a bit more interest. I will get into these principals and some photos next time. Hope this is clearer than mud for you! Have a great weekend.

Loads of Cards

2010-04-26T21:27:00.002+09:30

My favorite little monsters are back...I saw this little birthday cake printed on some paper (I forget which brand) and thought I would have a go at making some.

I can't believe a week has passed since my first photography lesson. I WILL post about what I did in the first session....this week has gone so quickly!! I might have to post the first and second lessons together.

Finally finished and photographed.

2010-04-23T16:21:00.003+09:30

I love anything to do with babies. A friend will be having her second little bubs soon and I have made her these baby thankyous for her baby shower. The paper is American Crafts Blue Skys paper.

Quick Update

2010-04-21T14:42:00.000+09:30

No photos today...don't seem to be able to finish anything entirely lately. But when I do finish off all the little projects I have started I will have HEAPS to post!!
Most exciting thing for me lately is my beginner's photography course. I'm taking my new camera along to TAFE to night to learn the basics and to get to know my camera better. I'm excited to finally be able to do the course. Usually the kiddies or D.H. come first but I bit the bullet and enrolled. I paid on the day so I wouldn't back out. I've cooked tea, got the baby sitter and my camera is all ready to go! WOO HOO. The course is going to teach me the basics in photoshop too. I do know a little about photoshop but it will be good to pick up tips and tricks along the way. I thought I would post what I am learning along the way to pass on what I am learning to any budding beginner photographers. Have a great day!! XX

A long time between posts

2010-03-31T18:24:00.002+10:30

Well it has been months...but I am finally back. I have been sooooooo busy. Life is just crazy. I have been organising my house and spending lots of time with the family AND I turned the big four zero. Hubby gave me a Canon EOS 500D so I have been spending a bit of time getting to know my camera. I've got a beginner's photography class coming up soon and I have found a great photography group in town so I might even get into that. I've stuck to card making in the short term....layouts are too hard for me at the moment. Anyways here are my latest cards. Unfortunately I packed them before I took the photos so I hope you can see them through the shiny plastic.

Little boys cards.

2009-12-11T19:02:00.005+10:30

I bought the latest Homemade Magazine and in it was a gorgeous little monster quilt. I used the templates to get the ideas for some of these cards. Very simple boys cards!!

Lets Get Shabby December Challenge

2009-12-02T22:38:00.006+10:30

Well, I finally got a layout finished. This layout is for the Lets Get Shabby December Challenge. The Challenge is to make something with the Christmas theme in mind in the shabby chic style. I have layered Christmas flowers with roses to suite the shabby style with old world embellishments made from vintage cards. I used lots of glitter to make it Christmasy and I have layered everything. The colour varies in the light however the layout has a silver shimmery paper as the base. I have inked the edges of the base layers to give the layout the shabby old world feel....The base has three layers, giving it the window effect. .This was such a fab challenge I had to have a go!!

Really Simple but Sweet Handmade Cards

2009-12-01T15:34:00.001+10:30

How easy are these little fellas? Some Heather Bailey paper, ribbon and black Stazon with some stamping. I tried a little stitching too but in hindsight I would use a contrast coloured thread next time because the white thread didn't really show up. Have a great week!!

Cards, Cards, Cards

2009-11-20T21:37:00.002+10:30

Finally got to a few boyish cards and a wedding/engagement. I love these craft stock cards. They are slightly glossy and the stamps seem to set very well on them. These images on the card are clear Grace Taylor stamps with black Stazon.

Still on this Card Caper

2009-11-16T18:55:00.001+10:30

Still working on the lighting issue....just need a bit more time in the day to experiment!!

My New Lamp from Buyster Lighting

2009-11-09T21:55:00.002+10:30

Hey folks, I have had a hold up with the progression of the U'Tube video. The computer nerd and myself are having a few teething probs with the new video camera so I thought I would do my lighting post as a photo tutorial. I hope it helps. Really, I think taking good detailed photos of your work gets down to being patient and experimenting.

I was soooooo lucky to have Maree from Buyster Lighting offer me a fantastic lamp to test run. My computer/scrapbooking room is kind of dark and I found all my photos or scans of my finished work were dark and lacking detail. I thought I would set up a photo shoot for my work, experimenting with different techniques and different forms of lighting. The lamp I have is awesome!! It is so flexible with an adjusting arm and head on a really heavy base. It is black and looks really mod. The lamp can rotate 360 degrees around on its base too. It takes a 60 watt globe. Intially i set up two sheets of greeny coloured cardstock at the back ground for my shoot. I projected the lamp directly onto the front of the card and there was some over head lighting (the kitchen lights). I was really disappointed because the photo was very yellow in colour.

I had read somewhere a black background absorbs all the unnecessary light and is very flattering so I gave it ago. My card turned out really well. I could see so much more detail. I also had changed location back to my scrapping room which is a bit darker than the kitchen. I did not project direct light from the lamp. It took me a little while to fiddle around with the distance of the lamp from the card but I could see so much more detail on the card using the lamp this way (Photo 2). I did some closeups as well (Photo 5) and I was amazed at how much detail came out. The colour is pretty true too. Using a flash often washes the colour of your subject out but I got some good results using the lamp and the flash in conjunction with each other (Photo 4-slight loss of colour on the side I used the flash). I used he flash of the camera on the opposite side to the lamp and got a really even detailed look. Have a play. I think it is worth it. I am so over my scanner and I was looking to get a new camera because I couldn't get in close enough to get the detail in my photos but I have found the correct lighting can really enhance your photos. I hope this helps someone. I guess there is no magic answer it is perseverance and this is what worked for me. DARK BACKGROUND - lamp at a distance and some flash (opposite side to the lamp). I have a Canon Powershot Camera which is 4 years old. It isn't top of the range but I am so much happier with the photos I have taken using the lamp for lighting at night. Keeping in mind the best light is always going to be natural light. I am going to try out a smokey globe tomorrow. The computer nerd says he thinks I will get even better results. My lamp is the Madison. It is fully adjustable and it has a two year warranty. It can extend to about 60 cm tall. I LOVE IT....THANKS MAREE. Check out http://www.buysterlighting.com.au

Watch this Space!!!

2009-11-02T11:45:00.000+10:30

Hubby and I have bought a new video camera. Apparently it has a function which is useful when making U-Tube videos!!?!! So in lieu of the new video camera I thought I would create a little video tutorial about how to get the right lighting when photographing completed cards and scrapping projects. I have come across a great lightening idea which is inexpensive and gives great results and is flexible enough to use in many positions. Good lighting is essential to capturing all the precious little details in our work. Most of the time I finish a product late at night. I always want to post it on my blog straight away but the photos I take at night just don't cut it and scanning isn't doing it for me either. Good lighting is definitely the key. So stay tuned for my first U'Tube Vid. If I can master the U'Tube thing I might look at some more tutorial ideas I have around the Christmas theme. STAY TUNED !!!!!!!!!!

Off to make something I can use for my video. Have a great week everybody!!

More cards.........

2009-10-27T10:36:00.001+10:30

Lovin' Heather Bailey's papers and chipboard. It's all so girlie.

No work to post only a funny story.......

2009-10-25T08:56:00.000+10:30

Have a read of this for a cute story courtesy of my Mother In Law.....(She received it on email from somewhere)..........

The 'Middle Wife' by an Anonymous 2nd grade teacher

I've been teaching now for about fifteen years. I have two kids myself, but the best birth story I know is the one I saw in my own second grade classroom a few years back.

When I was a kid, I loved show-and-tell. So I always have a few sessions with my students. It helps them get over shyness and usually, show-and-tell is pretty tame. Kids bring in pet turtles, model airplanes, pictures of fish they catch, stuff like that. And I never, ever place any boundaries or limitations on them. If they want to lug it in to school and talk about it, they're welcome.

Well, one day this little girl, Erica, a very bright, very outgoing kid, takes her turn and waddles up to the front of the class with a pillow stuffed under her sweater.

She holds up a snapshot of an infant. 'This is Luke, my baby brother, and I'm going to tell you about his birthday.'

'First, Mom and Dad made him as a symbol of their love, and then Dad put a
seed in my Mom's stomach, and Luke grew in there. He ate for nine months through an umbrella cord.'

She's standing there with her hands on the pillow, and I'm trying not to laugh and wishing I had my camcorder with me. The kids are watching her in amazement.

'Then, about two Saturdays ago, my Mom starts saying and going, 'Oh, Oh, Oh, Oh!' Erica puts a hand behind her back and groans. 'She walked around the house for, like an hour, 'Oh, oh, oh!' (Now this kid is doing a hysterical duck walk and groaning.)

'My Dad called the middle wife. She delivers babies, but she doesn't have a sign on the car like the Domino's man. They got my Mom to lie down in bed like this.' (Then Erica lies down with her back against the wall.)

'And then, pop! My Mom had this bag of water she kept in there in case he got thirsty, and it just blew up and spilled all over the bed, like psshhheew!' (This kid has her legs spread with her little hands miming water flowing away. It was too much!)

'Then the middle wife starts saying 'push, push,' and 'breathe, breathe.
They started counting, but never even got past ten. Then, all of a sudden, out comes my brother. He was covered in yucky stuff that they all said it was from Mom's play-center, (placenta) so there must be a lot of toys inside there. When he got out, the middle wife spanked him for crawling up in there.'

Then Erica stood up, took a big theatrical bow and returned to her seat. I'm sure I applauded the loudest. Ever since then, when it's show-and-tell day, I bring my camcorder, just in case another 'Middle Wife' comes along.

Some more cards folks...

2009-10-22T21:14:00.001+10:30

This card thing is so addictive. Let me know what you think. I have ordered a huge pack of blank cards. Can't wait to get on it! Don't forget to check out the blog post BELOW for your chance to win a RAK and to check out some fantastic products at My2Angels Store. XX

Place and order and be in the running for a RAK

2009-10-22T18:54:00.003+10:30

Check these little babies out!! How stunning are these. I just ordered a couple of packets of the Gardenias from My2Angels. SUCH AWESOME VALUE AT $4.80 FOR 12....Yes that's right 12!! You receive three of each colour. I had a bit more of a snoop around in the 'New Arrivals Section' and found some cute pins 10 for $1.00. There is some really great products at unbelievable prices. There is a free gift with purchase and if you order, pay and mention I referred you (in the comment section at the checkout) I am up for a gift too which I think I will choose to give back to one of the people who orders and pays at My2Angels just for the fun of it. Get over and have a look through all the different sections in the Boutique for that special something. AND hows the postage.....Flat rate $2.70 for everything within Aus EXCEPT papers, tapes and bottles eg kindy glitz, glimmer mist and dimensional magic which means the postage for the flowers only cost $2.70 with all other items being flat rate postage is $5.20. Also if you would like the cute little blinkie to add to your blog this is the url .........
http://www.my2angels.net/images/FlashingBlinkie.gif ...........Thankyou Tracey...so lovely!!

Thankyou

2009-10-21T21:55:00.000+10:30

A big thankyou to Tracy from My2Angels. I received a surprise RAK from her for no reason at all other than commenting on the funniest story I had read in ages. I still laugh when I think about it...It was a waxing story. Head over to her blog and read the story and check out the devine flowers she has just got in...I ordered me some packets...AWESOME VALUE and GORGEOUS. Check them out!!!

More Cards by me......

2009-10-14T21:42:00.001+10:30

A few more Christmas cards with one baby girl card thrown in. I am really enjoying making these!! XXjs

Christmas Cards

2009-10-14T17:06:00.003+10:30

Well, I am really getting into this card thing...they are only simple but they still take me ages to put together. Some Chrissie cards to start with......a baby card...XXjs

2009-10-08T22:04:00.002+10:30

Well not a lot of scrapping getting done so I thought I'd share some photos from our trip to Port Victoria. XX

Trying my hand at making cards

2009-09-22T11:19:00.008+09:30

Paper bag Mini Book Birthday Book

2009-08-11T17:12:00.010+09:30

After many months on the to-do list I finally finished my birthday book. It is a paper bag mini book with pockets between each month for cards to be stored as they are made. Not many cards done yet...they will have to go on the to-do list!

Goodtimes Minibook

2009-08-09T21:09:00.008+09:30

I haven't done a mini-book in ages and I have so many stacked away. This little gem is a work in progress. It's theme is about the 'good times' we have had this year. I am using anything and everything I can lay my hands on and nothing matches. Further will follow...........Hope everyone has had a great weekend. I am feeling refreshed. Thanks to those who sent me such lovely messages...I really am fine - just needed a breather. XXHave a great week.

Quick Post

2009-08-05T13:25:00.002+09:30

Hey ladies,
just a quick post to advise of my whereabouts and what I have been up to lately. I have been really busy of late just keeping up with life, family, work and house responsibilities and because of the increased demands on my time I have spent less time scrapp'n hence I have withdrawn from the wicked princesses DT and Songbirds. Loved them both but I just need to get my life in order so I hope I can keep in touch via their ning sites! I have a few little scrapping projects on hold and hopefully I can get some spare time soon to finish them off. Hope everyone is well and will chat soon!

2009-07-31T20:54:00.003+09:30

The time has come for Wicked Princesses to reveal the August Kits..all the kids are fab! These are the layouts I finished using the Party Princess kit. It is certainly adaptable for boys. Check out the kits by visiting the W.P. site via the link I have listed on the left of the page. Xx

Sunday Sneak Peak

2009-07-26T11:18:00.003+09:30

Wicked Princesses have their sneaks peaks for August up on the blog. They also have a new forum where you can find out all the goss AND they are sponsering a new challenge blog...What's Ad About. There's so much happening over there. Images of all the kits will be up on the 1st of August along with the design teams work. This is the Party Princess kit. It's so bright. I'll be working on my layouts today.

Subscriptions are coming back too. W.P. is going to have the following kits each month:

Pied Piper – Male kit

Party Princess – Female kit

Vintage Elegance

Knights Tale – Male kit (available Sept)

Queen Bee – Female kit (available Sept)

Card kit.

There is also a prize up for grabs for which will be sent out to one lucky follower of the new Challenge Blog so make sure you sign up!

Lets get Shabby Challenge

2009-07-21T21:30:00.002+09:30

You must get over to the Lets Get Shabby Challenge blog..the winner of their first challenge has been posted. I managed an honourable mention which has blown me away. I am in awe of the entries. They will be posting the next challenge soon..it really is a great challenge site. Follow the link on the left if you are looking for some inspiration!! Amazing. And thankyou so much for the HM LGS.
Looking forward to getting my hands on the August Wicked Princess kit. They have five on sale. Be quick because they always go quickly. Can't wait to get to work on my kit when it arrives. I think the break from the keyboard has done me wonders. Check out the sneak peaks on the W.P. here.
XX Have a great week.

Yeah ...finally finished a layout

2009-07-16T19:18:00.005+09:30

This layout is for the first ever Lets Get Shabby Challenge Blog challenge. This month inspired by a beautiful picture of ladies dressed in very feminine, beautifully crafted dresses and hats. What inspired me in the picture was the lovely soft pink and green colours..the flowers and feathers in the hats and the lovely lace. I have used a vintage lace collar in the background of my layout and hand made my roses (using tips from Nic Aspinall's blog)..the photo is a lot brighter but still having probs scanning. I couldn't believe the gorgeous work from the design team at LGS. Just awe inspiring.

Wicked Princesses Cybercrop Tomorrow Nite!!!

2009-06-25T18:38:00.004+09:30

Check out this cute little cybercrop card kit at W.P. At 7.95 it is fantastic value!!

Wicked Princesses Cybercrop is fast approaching! Make sure you join us in the fun! One of the games being hosted on the night is Bingo, and now while these words will quite possibly give away the theme of our first Cybercrop in order to play along we need you to choose 20 words from the following list and email your chosen words to us at wickedprincesses@y7mail.com ready for the game to begin! Who knows..you could be a winner! The words are.......
King,Queen,Prince,Princess,Castle,Crown,Noble,Regal,Royal,Monarchy,Magnificent,Majestic,Cape,

Crest,Family,Monarch,Buckingham Palace,Her Majesty,Emperor,Windsor, Castle, Duke,Edinburgh,Royal Highness,Knight,Duchess,Guard,Wales,Princess Mary,Prince William,Carriage,Prince Harry,Princess Diana,Empress,Imperial,Palace,Sovereign,Windsor,Princess Beatrice,Ball,Horse!!

Make sure you pop over for the fun!

Tiny Angel

2009-06-23T18:57:00.004+09:30

My little man when he was really little!! Think I need to clean my scanner..keep getting this orange tinge? Any hoo...have a great week everyone!!

Songbirds #2 Challenge

2009-06-14T10:49:00.004+09:30

There are great lyrics coming up for the second Songbirds Challenge. The lyrics and C.T. inspirations should be up soon so make sure you stop past to check them out. Visit: http://songbirdscraps.blogspot.com/

Better Late than never..first June Songbirds Challenge Layout

2009-06-08T16:10:00.003+09:30

Still Here

2009-06-06T19:14:00.002+09:30

Hi there, just a quick post to let you know I am still around. I have had such busy times of late it is getter harder for me to find time to get on my 'puter. Still am loading programs back onto my computer after my down time and still don't have photoshop which is bugging me no end.
We have had my little man down with asthma. It is such a worry but thankfully N is home and I don't have to worry on my own. I forgot how unsettling it is when someone so young is sick. I am very grateful it is not worse but I still worry. Off to binge on a block of chockie. No doubt my post tomorrow will be about my pending health kick! Have a great weekend everyone. XX

Some boy stuff

2009-05-30T11:38:00.006+09:30

Using the last of my May Warlock Kit from W.P. It has been hard working with photos I already have. I am used to picking what I would like to use but with my photoshop program off line I am using up old unaltered photos and the inspiration just isn't there.

The top layout is for the Gluttony Challenge and W.P. and the bottom for the June sketch challenge. The latest seven deadly sin challenge is up too..........LUST.

June Enchantress Kit Layouts

2009-05-30T11:33:00.005+09:30

Scrummy stuff once again.....Love the June Enchantress Kit over at Wicked Princesses. I have almost used every little bit...a few pieces left for a card!! Have a great weekend everyone

Warlock Kit Layout - Blue Skies

2009-05-20T22:30:00.007+09:30

Well...What a to do!!! I have felt like I had my arms and legs cut off and my heart ripped out this week. THE COMPUTER BROKE. I had to get it fixed and I have been off line for what seems like ages. I got so much done around the house! I didn't realise how much time I spent on the computer. I missed blog hopping and I am going to have to hang out to the weekend to check out what everyone has been up to!! Hope everyone has had a great week...

Check out these awesome papers for the May Warlock Kit at Wicked Princesses. I have posted a project sheet on this one on the W.P. blog. June kit sneak peaks are up on the blog too. The latest Deadly Sin was greed hence my layout on T's obsession of Thomas the Tank Engine. Your going to lovvvvvvvvve the next deadly sin challenge!!

Don't forget to check out the latest lyrics for Songbird's Scraps. Fantastically lovey dovey lyrics this month and fab inspiration layouts by the C.T. girls. I doubled my Blue Skies layout for this month's Songbirds challenge.

OMGosh I love the May Warlock's Kit from W.P.

2009-05-11T20:01:00.005+09:30

I got my kit today. It is packed with 'Rose Moka' papers and alphabet stickers and MVP papers...awesome for the boys!! These are a couple of layouts I whipped up tonight. Lovvvvvvve the colours. Check out the Wicked Princesses Gallery. It is amazing with loads of inspiration.

The SLOTH challenge is up at W.P.

2009-05-09T08:57:00.004+09:30

This weeks challenge is about lazing around, monochromatic - light blue, two handmade embellishments - one must be made from a non-scrapping product and stitching. The D.T. layouts and cards are stunning! Can't wait to see this weeks amazing work from all the participants.

RAK up for grabs @............

2009-05-05T07:06:00.003+09:30

RAK going over at Peggy's and Julie's. Head over and have a look!! A little while ago I gave away a couple of RAK's. They headed O.S. and now the recipients - Peggy and Julie are putting out a RAK. To be in the running you must leave comments on the appropriate posts, here and here.

Songbirds May Challenge Layout

2009-05-04T13:27:00.002+09:30

Head over to Songbirds to check out the new inspirational lyrics and CT creations for this month.

Mother's Day Pressie...

2009-05-02T20:39:00.006+09:30

I have been so busy today. Not much housework getting done here but I have mother's day gifts and cards almost sorted for next weekend. I used a card sketch from W.P. for the card and I have reinvented and photo paper packet into a pretty pocket for up to date photos of the kids for Mum. She is always at me for more recent photos so she is going to love this. Instructions for the pocket will be posted over at W.P. soon.

NSD at Wicked Princess

2009-05-02T16:58:00.004+09:30

So many gift ideas. I made this little notebook. Check out the W.P. blog to find the instructions.

Wrath - Seven Deadly Sins Challenge.

2009-05-02T14:31:00.003+09:30

My Wrath layout. Check out the latest challenge in the seven deadly sins comp over at W.P. The gallery is looking awesome!!

This is about T being nearly four and frustrated with life. He really needs to be at Kindy.

2009-05-02T08:29:00.003+09:30

This layout is for the May Sketch Challenge at Wicked Princess. Heaps happening over there for National Scrapbooking Day. Head over for instructions and ideas for mother's day gifts!! The prizes for all those that play. Can't wait to see what projects are up and running. I will have the paper bag book I made at Tarshy B's store awhile ago, with instructions on the blog. Card sketches and tags there too. Have a great weekend. XXjs

Boy Enchantress Kit Layout!!

2009-04-29T13:57:00.003+09:30

April Enchantress kit can be used for boys too!! There will be a project sheet up on this one at Wicked Princess' shortly.

Another W.P. April Kit Layout

2009-04-27T18:47:00.003+09:30

Still lovin' these Pink Paislee papers. I had to buy the rest of the kit so I didn't miss out on any of this goodness (Don't tell DH)!! A promise has been made to DH - no more scrapbooking gear...hmmmmm.

ENVY...Wicked Princess Seven Deadly Sins Comp.

2009-04-25T15:25:00.003+09:30

This is my latest layout for Wicked Princesses' Seven Deadly Sins Competition.. This week it is ENVY..Green and Black...It's all about what you envy or what family or friends envy...THE GREEN EYED MONSTER...you must use doodling and transparencies on your layout too. Check out the blog here.

2009-04-20T21:49:00.003+09:30

This was a quickie using sketch #2 for April at W.P. I loved doing something so simple!! It is a couple funny conversations I overheard last year.
Julie is is the winner of the second prize pack too - corn fuzz and cobs and vanilla are definitely the craziest things I have heard of being used on a layout. I always love getting you messages. An how fantastic that my little stash is going to go to the other side of the world!! Make sure you email me you address so I can send it off ASAP. Have a great week. XX

April Wicked Princess Kit Layout - Grandma's Girl

2009-04-19T16:03:00.005+09:30

I loved working with these papers..pink, green and brown...ymmo. The buttons and journalling tag are from the kit too. Head over to Wicked Princesses' to check out the April kit. A few extras were added from Heather Bailey's collection and KI Memories. XX

Give-away #2

2009-04-18T16:30:00.005+09:30

Yay...the first give-a-way has gone to our beautiful Belgium Scrapper Peggy (I think...just checking that Peggy was going to join in). And now for my second give-a-way.

Give-away #2

2 pages of Love Elsie Cardstock stickers

& Heidi Swapp Ghost shapes (Kiwi) with a couple of flowers, circles and a heart and leaves remaining in the pack!

This time, if you are interested this little RAK leave a comment on this post telling me what was the craziest thing you used on a layout..Just reminding you that these are items that the packets have been opened but that I am passing on un-used and it would be great if the person receiving does the same but it is not essential. Gather together some of your old product to receive new product. I will get one of the kids to pick which person is to win this RAK on Sunday evening. XX

PRIDE-Wicked Princess Competition

2009-04-18T14:54:00.005+09:30

Finally, the Seven Deadly Sins Competition has commenced with the first challenge being about PRIDE. Head over to W.P. to check out the D.T.'s inspirational layouts..gorgeous. I found this one really hard!! You must use "It's All About Me" in the title, purple and bling!!

Give Away No. 1

2009-04-18T14:03:00.004+09:30

Well I have finally gone through most of my enormous stash and I must say I am a bit of a hoarder. I am finding it hard to part with things but I came up with this little stash for my first give-away...I hope somebody will be able to use it. Keep in mind that these are products that I may have already opened the packaging and some new stuff...but all has been un-used of course.

Give-away #1:

one page of Love Elsie cardstock stickers,

some P.S.R. Handmade stickers (great for cards),

a length of pink Queen & Co. felt,

a Me and My Big Ideas chipboard frame and flower and some epoxy stickers.

Where I have more than I need I am committed to giving away because I am sure we all could use a little inspiration from something new. I LOVE to know who has been visiting my blog and I LOVE comments so leave me a comment when you visit. I did say I will give the first little stash away to the first comment left on this post which indicates they would like the stash. I also ask that person put together there own little stash to pass on - and that they ask the same an so on. I would love lots of people to have the pleasure of giving something old and receiving something new.....No pressure - if you don't get to it that is okay and I will keep on going through my stash and posting a give-away from time-to-time. For the person indicating their interest first you will be able to email me your address by going into my profile and under my profile photo is my email link. Have a great day.

My #2 Songbirds Layout for APRIL

2009-04-16T17:56:00.003+09:30

I started this one to submit for the March Aussie Scrap Jacked blog but didn't get it finished in time and it was perfect for this months Songbirds Challenge. Great lyrics this month so make sure you head over and sub a layout. We would love to have you play along. The more the merrier!! There's some great inspirational work over there too.

RAK for comments....

2009-04-15T20:45:00.002+09:30

For some time now I have been looking at my stash of never ending, bulging at the seams, Divine scrapbook product and wondered how I am going to use it all up...yes I love layouts and mini books and cards but am I really ever going to use up all of this STUFF!!? Nup!! And I have to make way for new bits and pieces. I thought I might gather a little stash of things, every now and again and give them away to the first comment indicating an interest in it. Then the person receiving the stash will need to post a photo of a stash of things they have gathered together to give away and link back to the previous RAK giver. I want to see how far this goes. I saw the idea on Bon's Scraps and thought it was so much fun. It is a great way to recycle and share bits and pieces we might not get to. I hope some of you are interested.....STAY TUNED.....

Another giveaway at W.P. and a layout share

2009-04-15T18:59:00.005+09:30

This is my layout for the W.P. Colour Challenge...purple, red, orange and green.

Head over to the W.P. blog to find out how you win this fabulous soap dish from...Soap Dish. Check out the Soap Dish website too..it is fabulous.

Next Songbirds sneak...

2009-04-05T22:24:00.003+09:30

Loads of vintage goodness from Ruby Street. XX

April Card Sketch Challenge #1 @ W.P.

2009-04-05T20:04:00.004+09:30

A card for the April Card Sketch Challenge...check it out at W.P.

Layout shares

2009-04-01T16:28:00.005+10:30

This is for this month's sketch over at W.P. Head over to see my sketch. This is a great sketch for using up bits and pieces and very low cost. They only have a couple kits remaining so be quick. This layout is not from the kit...it is Write Out paper and vintage buttons.

This one is for Songbirds. Make sure you head over and check out this months lyrics..these lyrics are my favourite so far!

Sneak Peak for Songbirds First April Challenge

2009-03-30T15:06:00.005+10:30

Just a quick post..Make sure you hop over to Songbirds for great inspirational lyrics..coming soon...

Craziness in a layout

2009-03-24T17:03:00.005+10:30

Well here it is..in all It's glory...the craziest version of a 'Me' layout that I have done yet and all to get on the W.P. D.T.....Make sure you pop over to W.P. blog to check out the D.T. and their work. This is the layout that D.H. asked me "What's that? Are you a porn star?"

If you need a laugh visit the link below..FUNNY!!

2009-03-23T22:28:00.002+10:30

I was doing a bit of blog hopping and came across scrapbooking2angels. You have to read this post...I can't stop laughing...stupid stupid man!! FUNNY!!

T-Pee's Pre-entry session

2009-03-23T21:31:00.004+10:30

The last little Smith to hit Kindy..T's Granny got the most gorgeous photos of T playing all over the place. I wondered how he would get on - following the rules because lets just say he is quite a determined little bloke. Apparently he only had one stand off with the Kindy teacher - the sand must stay in the sand pit and thought it would be better in the boat!! Other than that he got on OK. Stay tuned for more T-Pee capers because there are bound to be a few.

Fiskars Knife set up for grabs at SB's!!

2009-03-18T11:20:00.003+10:30

You have to be in it to win it!! Head over to Songbirds to check out the lyrics for the latest March Challenge....Remember ladies - this month there is a Fiskars Knife set up for grabs, so get your creative thinking caps on and show us what you're made of! There is some beautiful inspiration posted by the creative team if you are stuck so check it out! We love seeing your entries and can't wait to see what you come up with! Happy scrapping!xxoo

Wicked Princesses latest Challenge..The prizes are awesome!!!

2009-03-17T12:33:00.003+10:30

7 Deadly Sins Challenge ...How wicked are you? Do you have a desire, a need, a longing to confess your sins?? Your 7 Deadliest Sins?If this sounds like you then you will love the brand new challenge that has been announced over at the Wicked Princesses Blog... the 7 Deadly Sins Challenge! This challenge is open to both scrappers AND card-makers, and will involve 7 weekly challenges based around each of the 7 Deadly Sins.

Everyone who completes all seven challenges will go into the running to win the following great prizes:

1st prize All My Memories- Vituri Urban Shoulder Bag (Chocolate) RRP $180, Wicked Princesses Scrap Kit - Value $40.00, Store Voucher - Value $30;

2nd prize Memory Dock Tote - Valued at $100, Wicked Princesses Scrap kit - Value $40, Store voucher - Value $25;

3rd prize Crop in Style Messenger Tote - RRP $50.00, WP Embellishment kit $20.00, Store Voucher - Value $10.

So, to join in on 7 weeks of soul cleansing, simply register your name today at wickedprincesses@y7mail.com by 10th April, 2009 and get ready for some seriously deadly scrapbooking!!! For further information regarding the terms and conditions of this great comp, please check out the announcement at the Wicked Princesses blog.

I AM A WICKED PRINCESS

2009-03-16T19:07:00.005+10:30

I have had to lock the volt and keep the biggest secret I have had in my scrapbooking life but I can now reveal I have been chosen to be on the Wicked Princesses Design Team. I have often snooped around on the site and been in awe of their fabulous kits so when the opportunity came up to apply I jumped on it. I did this crazy layout of me dressed up as a Wicked Princess. DH thought I was mad..commenting "What is it supposed to be a porn star?" Anyhow what does he know?
Make sure you get over their to have a look at the fantastic kits. There's a kit for boys an a kit for girls and all sorts of extras. On the blog there are a heap of challenges, a monthly sketch challenge, other monthly challenges, a classroom/tips section and the latest 7 DEADLY SINS challenge which is a 7 week challenge. I can't wait to get started....Thankyou so much Karen and Tam for giving me a go.
I will get to and put on links to the other D.T. members blogs and a bit more info about the store and challenges soon.
May your tiara's shine bright and your nail polish never chip! Xjs

Another one for Songbirds!!

2009-03-15T22:51:00.004+10:30

Songbirds March Challenge

2009-03-02T12:19:00.005+10:30

Unfortunately I have had a terrible time with the ol'faithful computer this week and I couldn't print photos but this gave me an inkling to play with this layout I did for Kathryn a little while ago in a photo swap. These are her two little darlings!! I did some sewing around the cutouts of the kids and a few other little bits. To sew the heart I drew the heart on some fine tracing paper and used the drawing as a guide and when I finished I tore the tracing paper out from under the stitching...so easy...Think I will have to get the machine out more often. Get over to songbirds for the latest song lyrics...They were pretty inspiring. The C.T's work is gorgeous too!!

No one answered me last time I asked....Does anyone else revamp old layouts or am I the only one that does it?

Love Award

2009-02-28T19:08:00.002+10:30

Thanks Kathie for the very timely Love Award....for this one click on the picture, save and post it. Send it to 8 other people who have blogs you love!! Mine go to:

http://www.teacupofscrapisms.blogspot.com/

http://theycallmethescrapnut.blogspot.com/

http://kathryngalloway.blogspot.com/

http://thespiceoflife.typepad.com/

Four more to come..sorry have to go to bed early..am exhausted!!

And one for the boys

2009-02-23T21:13:00.003+10:30

Finally got around to put this together...

Layout Share

2009-02-23T12:45:00.005+10:30

Layout for the next Songbirds Challenge

2009-02-14T15:38:00.004+10:30

This is my layout for the next Songbirds Challenge. Head over to the Songbirds Blog for the next lot of lyrics. It's a really fun challenge and great Kaiser papers to be won. Enjoy. XX

A sneak for Songbirds next lyrics challenge for Feb

2009-02-10T20:59:00.004+10:30

A couple of peaks into my next layout for the Songbirds CT. I loved this challenge. Make sure you get in and support Songbirds very first month of challenges!! Great Kaiser paper range to be won!!

It almost seems insensitive posting layouts (especially with the word happy featuring) at the moment with what is happening over the border. I feel so sad about our Victorian neighbours. There are a lot of things we can do to help. I got this info off of Kathie's blog about contact information for donations of money and clothing.

1. Donate blood for burns victims, call 13 14 95 for an appointment Australia wide

2. Red Cross donations line (money is the preferred option now) 18008117003.

3. National Australia bank: donations can be made to: Victoria Bushfire Relief Fund: BSB: 082-001: Account: 860 046 7974.

4. The Salvation Army has launched an appeal to help bushfire victims as well as those affected by flooding in North Queensland. They will help those in relief centres with support and counselling as well as provide emergency financial assistance to enable people to buy clothing and personal items. (Monetary donations are preferred:) 13 137258 or go to www.salvos.org.au.

I am sure all of our communities will organise themselves to support the families affected by the fires. I know our school is having a fundraising day tomorrow and another on Friday. I have sent off clothes and toys via Vinnies and some locals are gathering goods that they can take over next month. Keep your ears to the ground and support which ever way you can!! XXJ.S.

A Layout Share

2009-02-10T12:04:00.004+10:30

For the White with One Challenge. This is my neighbour's little one (can't believe she is almost two already!) The challenge was an all white layout using brads or eyelets.

'My Blog Measures Up' Award. The lovely Marisa has passed this award on to me. Here are the steps:

1. Say one nice thing to the man in your life. "Go to bed ..you need sleep!" (That's all I can say at the minute bc he is driving me batty).

2. List at least 6 ways you measure success in you life:

My family,

My friends,

To be loved and to love,

A warm place to live,

Food in my belly,

Being able to celebrate all these things through scrapbooking.

The award must be passed on to five other talented bloggers:

Have a great day girls. XX

Layout Share - 70 Years Ago

2009-02-05T19:31:00.005+10:30

I love these photos..Mum as a baby and Mum at her 70th...Not bad for 70 hey!!

2009-02-01T16:43:00.002+10:30

How cool...tagged by Hetty Hall with this little number. Post the award, link to the person who tagged you and then tag 7 others:
1. Lynn
2. Kirsti
3. Kellie
4. Rachel
5. Skye
6. Shelly
7. Songbird Scraps
Check out Hetty's work..it is amazing, loads of laying in her layouts and gorgeous girl photos!!

6th Photo of the 6th Folder

2009-02-01T16:09:00.004+10:30

How cool I was tagged by Rach and Nat for an interesting little photo post. You post the 6th photo in your 6th photo folder. WELLLLLLLLLLL.....I had to do a little blurring bc I had a little blokes HM HM showing!! Funny. Then you list 6 others you would like to see post the 6th of the 6th photo folder. This is my 6.

1. Tarsh

2. Angie

3. Bec

4. Ali

5. Donna

6. Kathyrn

Can't wait to see what all you girls have stored in your 6th folder.

2009-02-01T13:26:00.002+10:30

All right everyone...It's time for the first Songbirds Challenge!!! The inspirational lyrics are up on the blog so pop over and have a look. The CT girls layouts are beautiful so make sure you check them out. Up for grabs is the set of new release Kaiser Argentella paper collection which is gorgeous. You've got to be in it to win it and we need loads of support for our first ever challenge!!

2009-01-31T18:16:00.006+10:30

I saw this over on Fran Tynan's blog (great blog BTW) and thought I would like to try it. I find it hard to post much about me personally because I like to keep things fairly close to my chest but I really liked this.........just for something different (The ones I've done are in aqua)

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped -no way...never will!!
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked-never have, never will
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping (when I was 3)
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise-around the Port River!
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors-Scotland
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelos David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt.
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight-that's not all I've done on the beach at midnight (will leave that up to the imagination)
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter (in the police copter)
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person - LOVED San Antonio!
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Well I reckon that is about as personal as I can get..big step for me. XXj.s.

2009-01-30T07:36:00.001+10:30

This layout is a celebration of me and Kimmy and our 'Thelma and Louise' trips to Melbourne...you rock Kimmy.

A Pretty BOY page

2009-01-26T18:42:00.003+10:30

This is for a monthy inspiration challenge at Bon's Scraps (check out this link for info on the challenge).

Black Magic Sketch Challenge #2

2009-01-25T19:13:00.003+10:30

I find sketch challenges the most difficult to get into..I think its because I like my freedom. Any way I don't have to do them but I do like to challenge myself and I like to see what everyone else does with the same sketch..This month at Black Magic the colours are white, pink and turquoise with mainly black and the technique is rub-ons.

Sneak Peak

2009-01-24T14:49:00.002+10:30

After a serious case of stage fright I have finally finished my layout for the very first Songbirds Challenge. Thought I would sneak you a couple of peaks. The hint around the songs chosen for our first challenge centre around love which is very apt given that the challenge will be written up for Feb. I thought I would use a lot of red and I had a play with paint and sequins. The layouts should be posted on the first of Feb.

Another first for me!

2009-01-19T18:10:00.005+10:30

OMG..It's the week for firsts for me...I have been fortunate to have been given a blog award..this is so cool and not only that I was nom'd with artists like Jane Jones and Carole Janson (not that I'm kidding myself but how fantastic is that). I was nom'd for this little blog award by the gorgeous Trudi. I thinks she is scared of me 'cause I stalk her blog...a lot!! Check out the post Love lives here.. I love it!! Trudi takes awesome photos of her girls and her life so how honoured am I to receive and award from such a clever lady.

To receive this award there are a couple of things you need to do:

1..You have to pass it on to 5 other fabulous blogs;

2.You have to list 5 of your fabulous addictions; and

3.On your post of receiving this award, make sure you include the person that gave you the award and link back to their blog.

My five fab addictions are:

Milk Freddo Frogs,

Nescafe cappuccino sachets,

pretty paper,

scrapping,

lurking in scrap and homemade goods themed blogs...

My awards go to:

Kathryn Galloway - she is a loyal little friend with a beautiful family and I know what a kick this would give her. She deserves it since she is always organising an event or get together for others;

Mandysea - Mandy creates the most inspiring textured layouts and she networks in places that I haven't been so I find it interesting to see what she creates for challenge sites not known to me; Caroline Ikej - stunning photos, cheerie blog with heaps of creative inspiration. Her layouts are fantastic. I have followed her anonymously for ages {guess I will have to come out of the closet to give her this award} She is a Garden Girl and designs for Studio Calico which is another awesome site to visit;

Iris Uy - inspirational layouts and beautiful photos {this lady knows I stalk her - I confessed to her};

Steph Devlin - the most elegant layouts, beautiful colour, beautiful photos and great blog!

Check these girls out!! You'll love them. XXj.s.

GUESS WHAT?!!

2009-01-16T17:42:00.005+10:30

I am so excited...I am on my very first Creative Team. Thanks to Susie Q and Skye for selecting me to be on the SONGBIRD SCRAPS team. We already have our first challenge to work on. Songbirds Scraps is a challenge blog inspired by music and lyrics hence the name. So make sure you pop by and check out the latest and greatest! Songbirds is a new challenge site so I would like to encourage all and sundry to pop by and join in the fun.

I would like to Congratulate fellow Songbirds Kirsti Brandis (WA)

Chiquita James (WA)

Shelly Williams (QLD)

as well as the international designer
Peggy Schenkels who joins us all the way from Belgium!

I am looking forward to getting to know everyone involved in Songbirds and I am hoping to meet some new scrappers!

A Layout...She's All That

2009-01-13T21:40:00.004+10:30

I love this photo..this is K waiting for her teacher to walk down the isle for her wedding...she was so excited to be there and amongst the crowd she stood out (as did the bride of course)... This layout is for the Black Magic January Challenge. Pink, turquoise, white and rub ons were required for a predominately black layout.

A Layout....5

2009-01-13T17:47:00.003+10:30

This layout is for the White with One January Challenge....Must be mainly white with one other colour and a technique. This month is flourishes. I made my own flourish with thin strips of paper wound up tightly and then stapled them on. The colour this month...turquoise. XJ

A layout..Make the World Your Own

2009-01-11T14:54:00.005+10:30

This is for Scrap the Boys first January challenge..You had to use the Scrap the Boys banner for inspiration...

A layout in the making...

2009-01-06T22:15:00.003+10:30

He snuck behind the kitchen counter...Minutes later...

He said, "Mum look at me".

I said, "What have you been up to?"

He said, "Nothing".

I said, "What's that on your face, you've got an icing beard".

He said, "Nothing" (whilst licking the side of his cheek).

He said, "I not a naughty boy".

I laughed. Think this one will go in the do pile! Funny little fella.

A couple of layout shares..

2009-01-02T20:04:00.002+10:30

I did these layouts for the Song Bird Scraps Challenge..inspiration comes from Pete Townshend's song 'Let my love open the door' and Pink's song 'So What' which were posted on the blog. Now it's off to do some much needed housework or my next post will be about my pending divorce. XXj.

Yayyyyy

2009-01-01T23:37:00.002+10:30

I just found out that I won a voucher at Bonscraps with my layout Xmas 2007 in the White with One Challenge for December. How exciting!!

Have a couple of layouts on the run and will post when I have put on the final little touches. Hope you had a great first day of 2009. XXJ

HAPPY NEWYEAR!!!

2008-12-31T22:51:00.003+10:30

Well goodbye 2008. You were very busy year for the SMIFF'S. All the SMITH kids learnt to ride a bike. H learnt to read and had his first classes at school. T kicked the 'bobble' at the ripe old age of three and a half and K finally stopped crying when dropped off at school.

The big SMIFF'S enjoyed watching their babies grow into kind little people (with the exception of a few outbursts by the youngest little bloke).

It is with sadness that we enter into the new year knowing that our dear friend is not long for this world. We love you and we always will. We don't want pain for you anymore. It is hard to believe how many work colleagues we have lost this year but amongst all that sadness and the tears are many things to be grateful about. I am grateful to have my lovely little family and a mum and extended family that love us and support us all. I am so lucky to have some great girl friends and to share our lives with a lot of long time friends. We are fortunate to have fantastic jobs and to be able to spend time on hobbies.

As for resolutions this year....

1. I am going to focus on all of our health. Healthy nutritious food, boosting everyone's immunity and loads of fresh air. I am going to drop some pounds and feel fitter.

2. Spend time preparing T for kindy and nappy training!!

3. Create a beautiful garden.

4. Join K and H up with something outside of school to help with their confidence.

5. Save for a campervan.

6. Improve my interviews for work. Network more.

7. Spend more time telling people how much they mean to me.

8. Break out of the box with my scrapping! Become a clever blogger. Learn more about my camera and photoshop.

9. Do at least a few good deeds for others each week.

10. Procrastinate less.

How's that? I could think of more things I would love to pack into 2009 but these are the significant goals for my year.

I wish everyone a safe and fortunate new year. I pray for a more peaceful world and for all people to take on the responsibility for making our world a better place. We can do that in little ways or monstrously significant ways. Either/Or is good!! Xj

A Layout

2008-12-28T09:15:00.002+10:30

Things are pretty grim on the old cash front after chrissy...should have asked Father Christmas for some ink catridges!! I have resorted to using some old (not so perfect photos) to create some pages for the challenge blogs. This one is for Scrap the Girls. Obviously it is a blog about scrapping girls. The challenge was to follow the sketch posted on the blog.