wishalicious

Meeting Great Grandma and Grandpa

2012-01-18T09:35:00.000+11:00

Meet Reece Gary Bennett

2012-01-17T20:14:00.000+11:00

We met this little man today, and had a visit from his 'mummy bear' Bec, and his gorgeous and very cute big brother Sonny.
Grandparents are very happy. He makes the 4th Great grandchild and was born on Jan One 2012...a pretty memorable date!
What gorgeous little men.

Pre haircut

2012-01-17T14:35:00.000+11:00

This is what he looked like before yesterday.
He now has shorter hair...but it came at a cost.
Not happy about hair cuts.

He is 8

2012-01-16T16:40:00.001+11:00

Yesterday he was 8.

He was born at 6:12pm weighing 7lb 12 oz.

He now weighs 27.2kg.

He is in Year 3 this year.

This was his first party since starting school.

It was at the local pool and it rained all day....just like the day he was born.

He was born on a Thursday.

This year his birthday was on a Sunday.

He hates having haircuts.

He loves soccer.

He wants to travel to Spain and Barcelona.

I made him a soccer field cake for his party.

He loves flags and looking at the world globe to see where he is going to travel one day.

He is a very good speller.

He is not so good with numbers.

He gets this from me, but looks like his father.

He is a very cool kid.

I love him very much.

tomorrow my boy turns 7

2011-01-14T20:52:00.001+11:00

Happy Birthday for tomorrow my beautiful son.
I can't believe you are 7.
How lucky are we?
and....i love your bed hair!

i heart faces

2011-01-11T05:34:00.001+11:00

Over at I heart faces this week the theme is SMILE.
Here is my entry. My little man and his cousin going down the slide.

December Eleven, Twelve, Thirteen 2010

2010-12-13T22:01:00.000+11:00

December 11....Saturday.
Birthday party at Angourie Rainforest Resort....in the rain.
But the kids had a ball. It was a fun party.
Tom is part of such a great class of kids.

Evening - Carols by candlelight at the highschool. A small turn out due to the rain and being on a Sat night, but still fun and you got to sing on stage.

December 12 - Sunday
Dad at golf.
Lazy day for us.
Photo shoot with Rach...baby bump photos.
You were such a good boy. You took heaps of shots on Rach's camera...a child's perspective.

December 13 - Monday
Playstation with dad before school.
Brekky (warm milk and weetbix) on a tray in your room so you can watch dad help you through the levels.
Game - Pirates of the Carribean. When you were younger, you used to call them Pirates of the Caravan...it was so cute, I couldn't correct you. A bit like now, you always call McDonalds....McDomalds. I love that. I know stuff like that will gradually disappear as you get older, so I am enjoying it while you still do it.

December Ten 2010

2010-12-11T10:20:00.000+11:00

End of year mass today.
Events like this are starting to form traditions in our family.

I took the same shot last year.
I take it from the choir area up the stairs above the pews. I love mass from up there. Watching all the kids and their families...all by myself....very peaceful and beautiful.

Ella, who will be school captain in 2011 had the St. Joseph's candle passed onto her from this years captains.
Awards were given, prizes were handed out. Only 3 per class and so difficult for teachers to pick just three. I was very proud of my boy. He is a good student, a good learner, a good friend.
We left school after mass to do a little birthday present shopping for a party tomorrow.
Next week will be wind down week at school.
Only 3 days to go.

December Nine 2010

2010-12-09T21:15:00.000+11:00

Today is the end of my paid working week.
It was one of those mornings...cranky child who is overtired...tired mother who gets cranky with the cranky child. It was an indication of the day more or less.
After arriving at work and doing some prep for the Yr 6 grad, I noticed the floor in the staffroom moving. MAGGOTS! 40 minutes later with all the room de-maggoted with the vacuum, I got back to work. Printer issues...all day.
But all in all, I did manage to finish some jobs.
I finally opened my Secret Santa gift from Angela. My oh my, so very, very generous and gorgeous. All the stuff I LOVE...Jenni Bowlin, Jillibean soup, websters ribbon. It is the BEST SS gift I have ever got.
Had a quick visit from Cath, just to collect some cucumbers.
Mum and Dad arrive home tomorrow.
Week one of Dad's radium down.
Hope he is feeling OK.
No photo yet today...still on the camera.

December Seven + Eight

2010-12-08T23:35:00.000+11:00

December 7
School Christmas concert.
My Little Joey's (future Kindergarten class in 2011) performed 10 little Angels in front of our whole school. Exactly 10 out of the 23 turned up and they were fabulous.
Tom's class sang 3 songs. It was a lovely concert....some very funny items like the Year 6 "Aussie Christmas", and some tear jerker songs like Kindy's " I am thankful". Kids Christmas concerts are just beautiful. I shot over 200 photos, and I am guessing there were thousands of shots taken by other parents that night just to freeze that little moment in our lives. So special.

December 8
Indonesian Day at school.
I had to take a group around rotational activities for the entire day. It was a fabulous day...hot, humid and exhausting, but Tom LOVED it, as did the rest of the kids.
Mask making, music, dancing, cooking, games. It was really well organised and very interactive. All good.
Tom also got his report card today...and it was excellent.
Mostly B's with a few A's thrown in for good measure....best of all, a great comment.
"Tom is a cheerful, friendly and considerate class member. He has a great approach to learning and goes about his work without any fuss. He tries hard in all learning activities and is a great role model for the other children in the class. (VERY PROUD MOTHER HERE!) He is continually making steady and consistent progress. Tom is a pleasure to teach."
And of course, that last sentence is the one every parent wants to hear about their kid.

He has had a great year, and he is sooo well behaved at school. I cannot fault him. Not always the same at home, but as he gets older, there are less and less issues about things. He is so much fun to be around, and we have the best conversations. LOVE talking to him.

Had our final swimming lesson for the year today, and we are booked in for another session next year, but this time on Saturday mornings. Less rush after school that way, in case I have to stay back and prep.

Dad is in day 2 of his radium therapy for his ear cancer.
I have 4 work days left this year.

No photos today...they are taken, but not resized just yet.

December Six 2010

2010-12-06T23:45:00.000+11:00

A casual work day for me today on Kindergarten.
Really getting into that slowing up on the learning and increasing the playing. The kids are all exhausted, so it makes for a nice change.
Mondays are swimming lessons for us. We have been going Mon and Wed for the last 8 weeks, and now you can swim. Such a wonderful achievement. Each week you have made more and more progress and you even look 'good' whilst swimming...you have a nice style.
Ella came with me today while you had your lesson. We sat in the cool shade on one of the stands and watched you go up and down the lane. Now you can swim confidently by yourself I am sure we are going to have a wonderful summer holiday full of trips to the pool and beach.

December Five 2010

2010-12-05T18:44:00.000+11:00

Shopping day.
Grafton.
45 min drive.
Tom was patient. We played BUZZ OFF in the car on the way. Tom still needs to learn how to be a better 'loser'. May put that on my 'hope' note to be tucked away in this years stocking for next year.
Shopping was good. Got teacher gifts...a big box of choccies. Some new pj's, jocks and a painful sounding laser gun for Tom. This makes him very happy. He is walking around in his new pj's as I type...a singlet with aussie, aussie, aussie, oi...oi...oi, and matching boxers with the aussie flag on them. Not really pj's, but he likes them.
We both fell asleep on the way home in the car. Me holding his head up on my shoulder and trying to stay upright in the middle of the back seat.
Simple dinner tonight of whatever we can find in the fridge.
Need to get organised for work / school tomorrow.
Oh, and I made Tom take a photo of me just so that I feature somewhere in this record.

December Four 2010

2010-12-05T00:10:00.000+11:00

Pretty cruisey day today.
Cleaning and tidying the house...still sorting and packing. Even put some layouts from my box into albums. I have unfiled ones from 2006! Only 4 years worth of sorting! So many stories in those pages, ones that I had forgot until I read them. Sometimes I think I want to give away scrapbooking. The amount of space my stuff takes up (even with culling and sorting), deadlines, lack of inspiration, sometimes it all seems too much effort. But I LOVE my pages, I LOVE our stories, and if I didn't write them down, they would be lost to Tom forever. So, I guess today was good to sort and tidy. I find my style is much simpler these days, and I like that. My favourite pages are the ones with long stories, and i still have some photos that just make me 'ahhh' no matter how many times I see them. It is important I keep telling our story.

Our Christmas stuff is looking nice now, and I am lighting our candles each night. Tom loves to blow them out after dinner.We have candles on the table, on the coffee tables, and I know there are a couple wrapped for me under the tree. Can't have too many candles right?

Now, today's other agenda item was a birthday party at the pool for a little friend from school. They had so much fun, and it was great to be able to relax a little now that Tom can swim this season. He always stays where he is comfortable and doesn't get over confident. I like that.
Kids are so easily amused with water and some mates. Simple=good. Way too many lollies, but that is what parties are for, right?

Now the shots.

Decenber Three

2010-12-03T21:07:00.000+11:00

Work today.
Made the display for the Year 6 graduation ceremony.
Tom and Ella are feeling and looking more tired everyday. The school term is coming to a close, and all the kids look like they are in need of a long rest.
More rain.
After school, Tom and I went to the pool and met up with Deb, Harry and Jack. The boys had a fun time swimming around, and Tom asked to go the 'deep end' for the first time...and he went...by himself.
Of course, no camera.
When we arrived home, I could smell roses. I walked in to see these sitting on my table.
Thank you mum. Picked straight from her garden.
We haven't done the advent this year...just ran out of organising time. Instead, we are counting down to the end of school. Crossing off the countdown on the fridge which I made at the end of November.
Left over spinach pie for dinner.
Watched "The Elf" Movie...very funny and cute.

December Two 2010

2010-12-02T21:53:00.000+11:00

Work again today.
Same lunch...cucumber, tomato, cold meat and vinegar.
Swimming for sport....not too cold today, but still overcast and definitely NOT hot enough for me to swim, even though I did.
Picked spinach from dad's garden and made spinach pie. A favourite with Tom.
Weight Watchers weigh in. Another loss this week...yay! Total of exactly 5kg lost in 9 weeks. Feeling good about that.
Funniest moment today...watching Tom and Dan play with the video on Dan's phone. Tom had a true belly laugh moment, so I quickly grabbed my camera, used the flash (sometimes you have no choice) and got this one, my favourite from today....blur and all.

December One 2010

2010-12-01T22:30:00.001+11:00

Today I went to work at St. Joseph's Catholic School.
I taught 'Little Joeys' from 9-11am...aka the Kindergarten class next year.
I had dad's cucumbers, tomatoes and ham for lunch.
I taught Kindergarten the rest of the day...they are tired.
Ella was announced as the School Captain for 2011.
We are very proud of her.
Tom didn't go to his swimming lesson.
It rained.
It was muggy.
Tom had 8 dino nuggets, sauce and chocolate milk for lunch...for the umpteenth time in the last two years.
Tom swam in Ella's pool after school and practiced big arms, 1, 2, breathe.
He is getting very good at swimming.
We stuck our new Merry Christmas sign in the garden bed at our front door of the shed.
We are living in the shed.
Tom and Dan put up the tree tonight.
I took the traditional photo of Tom placing the star on top.
I am trying to take a photo each day this month.
Everyone is feeling a little tired and cranky.
Happens at this time of the year.
Remember to be thankful.
.

a few layouts

2010-11-29T19:52:00.000+11:00

Just adding some of my recent work...

some cards and some layouts.

It always astounds me how Christmas just sneaks up on you.

For my own record, Dad had another cancer cut out of his back today.

He begins another round of radium therapy for ear cancer on Dec 7.

I am praying for him and that 2011 is cancer free for our family.

With heartfelt thanks

2010-10-07T20:32:00.000+11:00

Todays card is for sale in my shop at madeit - button on the sidebar.
This is a very sweet card in real life - perfect to say thank you for someone special.

On another note, Tommy is having a sleepover...we went out for dinner at Angourie (Frangipan) by OURSELVES...felt strange but good. I always miss him when he is away, but appreciate the time as well.
Thank you to Sean, Troy, John and Tracy for caring for my boy.

new cards for sale

2010-10-06T20:08:00.000+11:00

I have just listed two more cards for sale at my store on madeit - click on button to go to my shop.

Love the papers from the Cosmo Cricket Togetherness range...pretty and vintage looking.
Happy Wednesday.

CARDS FOR SALE

2010-10-04T22:10:00.000+11:00

I have finally taken the plunge and have listed some of my handmade cards on http://www.madeit.com.au/Wishalicious
So...if anyone is interested in purchasing a card, please pop over there and have a browse. I will add more over the next few days.
Thanks so much.

Pastel Card Challenge

2010-10-04T09:15:00.000+11:00

There is a new card challenge up over at Scrapz.Biz today. Kerryn has made a beautiful card using pastel papers - here is my entry.
The cute little bee is from theALPHABET SOUP papers which Heike has in the shop.
The Thank you is hand cut from some ECHO PARK papers, and the stamp is from Basic Grey What a pear.
Happy card making

World Card Making Day

2010-10-03T15:14:00.000+11:00

Over at Scrapz. Biz this weekend we are celebrating World Card Making Day. There will be one challenge posted each day for the next 5-6 days, so if you want to increase your card stash, and have a chance to win some great prizes, head over.
Here are a couple I have made so far.

More to be posted throughout the week.
Happy card making.

Round 2 Vegemite

2010-08-09T21:55:00.000+10:00

Well, Round 2 of Scrap that Ad is well underway over at Scrapz.Biz.
I uploaded the wrong sneak peak last time LOL...here is my layout inspired by the vegemite ad.

The criteria is to use the colours on the vegemite jar, a diamond and the word happy. Pretty easy huh.

I have done a little fun photoshopping with my picture...inspired by this 1930's ad.
The entries are pouring in for Round 1, but as with all of Heike's competitions, you can join in at any time to be in the running for the big prizes at the end....the main one being a $100 gift voucher. You just need to complete 5 out of the 6 challenges. A new challenge goes up each Monday morning, to to find out more, click on the Scrapz.Biz button on my sidebar and go check it all out.
Happy scrapping.

Scrap that ad.

2010-08-06T21:17:00.001+10:00

Over at scrapz.biz the competition is mounting for round 1. There are only 2 nights left to enter in round 1 before Round 2 gets posted on Sunday.
Here is a sneak peak of my round 2 creation.

On a different tangent, my dad got out of hospital today after an overnight stay after ear surgery to remove a tricky cancer. He does not cease to amaze me at his resilience, his inner strength, and his ability to keep calm and carry on. I admire him very much.
God bless you dad and may he continue to keep you well.
That's it for me tonight.
Soccer in the morning. LOVE Saturdays with my family. Saturday mornings are definitely my favourite time of the week.

Meet Sonny

2010-08-02T19:55:00.000+10:00

This is my newest great nephew...actually my only great nephew (makes me sound old at 43 to be a great aunty!), but I also have a great niece as well.
Well, the poor little fella had a zillion photos shot of him yesterday at his christening.
Here are a couple of my favourites.

And here is my great niece. She is such a cutie.

And finishing with a layout which I made for the first round of Scrap That Ad Competition
over at Scrapz. Biz.
Some fabulous prizes up for grab over there if you would like to enter.
Happy Monday.

SCRAPZ.BIZ BIRTHDAY COMPETITION

2010-07-22T19:10:00.003+10:00

	Next month marks our first anniversary. To celebrate we are going to run a comp based on famous ads run over 6 weeks. The Prizes First Prize : $100 Scrapz.biz shopping voucher & guest DT spot Second Prize : $75 Scrapz.biz Voucher Third Prize : $50 Scrapz.biz voucher 6 x weekly $30 Scrapz.biz vouchers All the details can be found here. Hope you can join the fun! New In Store - Basic Grey Oliver & Olivia - Echo Park Walk In The Park

Sunny Monday

2010-07-12T08:51:00.000+10:00

Day 4 Holiday update.
Yay....the sun is shining.
I have had my walk.
Going to catch up with friends later today at the park...and....I have a couple of layouts to share. Seems like forever since I have been able to find the time to scrap.
The first one, my neice with Tommy. I have used Fancy Pants Wishful thinking and some other goodies

Now for the boy version using 7 Gypsies, Fancy Pants and some other goodies.

On another note, if you want to make a SUPER CUTE MINI PIZZA BOX go and check it out.
Well, better skidaddle and get organised for today.

happy holidays

2010-07-11T12:48:00.000+10:00

Yes, we are on holidays.
Some highlights so far....

Day one - movies, madness with crowds and lines at the movies, Uncle Mal, dinner with Helen, Bruce and Catelin.

Day two - rain, book tables at RSL for catch up with 32 friends......., dinner with 32 friends at RSL, late night, lost jacket, good to see old faces.

Day three - overcast and looking like it may rain, 40min beachfront walk - bliss, and I feel better already, soccer in the park, mum kicks the ball on the roof of a bbq shelter and two good samaritan men get it down whilst dad is ordering a hamburger. Thank goodness for testosterone and men's basic need to conquer all things, including a kids soccer ball on a roof...dad and tom at zone 3 lazer light fighting thing (very happy boys) with friends, mum scrapbooking in the unit....ahhhhh. Tonight, roast dinner at the local tavern - no cooking allowed whilst on holiday!!!

more photos to come.

No longer a home owner

2010-07-01T07:14:00.000+10:00

Just for my own record, today we are no longer home owners. We no longer have a weekly mortgage payment (for a little while anyway). Today, July One 2010 we have sold 123 North Bank Road Palmers Island.

Now...we need to start saving for the next one.
Happy Thursday.

i heart faces

2010-06-29T21:31:00.001+10:00

Feeling the need to find some inspiration for my weekly DWD at Scrapz, so I have been browsing and found this site...i heart faces
Looks interesting and some good ideas for photos. I just happen to have a photo that fits the category of pets.
This is my brothers pride and joy...meet kitty.

This is my first challenge, so I had better scoot over and read the fine print.
here goes.
Happy documenting.

Fancy Pants Card

2010-06-17T13:08:00.000+10:00

Hello,

I have a new card...quick and easy...made from Fancy Pants Papers.

I have also finished putting together an album which will house a photo from each year of Tom's Primary school.

Well, short and sweet from me today. Not feeling the best.
Take care,
Deb

My Dad #1

2010-06-14T13:11:00.000+10:00

I have decided to do some more pages about people other than Tom! I know I should be regularly doing that, but with limited time and so many photos, I guess it is sometimes easier. But now that Dad has cancer, I want to do more about him and mum, so my first page is using a photo taken yesterday with my lovely sisters camera (which is a newer version of mine and I love it!) Might have to drop mine and get a new one LOL.
The layout has journaling which is a poem taken from my blog a little while ago. It describes my dad better than I ever could in my own words.
Just for the record as well, he didn't mind that I took this photo with a bandage on his face. He had a cancer cut out earlier in the week, had a biopsy taken from part of his ear, and is awaiting radium treatment for prostate cancer...and still, he is resilient and positive and NEVER feels sorry for himself.
When I grow up, I want to be just like him.
Love you dad.
xxx

School albumI

2010-06-13T22:07:00.000+10:00

Hello,
With school photos approaching on Tuesday, I have been working on an album to house all of Tom's annual school photos for his primary school years.
I wanted it to be pre-made so I just have to stick and jot down some notes each year.
I have made the cover from scratch, and attached a folder mechanism from an old folder to the inside.
Now I am up to creating the page templates.
I like the look of it and the simplicity of this style of recording, and now I have a special place to keep all those annual school shots.
TFL.

On another family note, we have had my sister and family down from the Gold Coast for the long weekend.
My dad is recovering from facial surgery to remove a skin cancer, and amongst his other health issues, he is a tower of strength and positivity. I am so proud of him. I wish I was more like him. He takes anything thrown at him, and soldiers on...quietly, bravely and without complaint. He is a hero to all of us kids...and we love him. I pray for him each day, and want to spend many more years with him. I want to Tom to continue to get to know him, and if it is possible for him to love him anymore than he already does, I want that too. I love how he hugs him goodnight when we visit. He is the best grandpa and father in the world.
I am making a page for him at the moment, and the words are sometimes hard to find, because I want them to convey how I feel without being soppy and corny. At the moment, the photo is on my desk in a work in progress state.
Enough now, goodnight and god bless.

Deb

June Cuddlez Vintage Scrapz Card Kit

2010-05-31T20:35:00.000+10:00

...is for sale.
At the moment, they are selling through Scrapz.biz at $19.95 including postage

Everything in the kit has been handcrafted by me, and there is only a limited amount available.

Here are a few details about the June Cuddlez Card Kit...

This month is a little different to last month.
I have included the exact products to recreate the 6 cards which I have made, making it even easier to put a card together.
All the flowers are layered and handmade, giving that unique handcrafted look to each card. You will get 4 flowers and each is about 2- 3 inches.
All buttons are tied with button twine or embroidery floss, and are attached already.
Papers are from October Afternoon Fly a Kite, with a teeny ittle bit of Cosmo Cricket and Scenic Route.
There is some lovely fabric ribbon, a fabric die cut shape and fabric used in one of the flowers.
There are four 4x6 card bases and two note sized cards included in the kit.
One card comes with a unique paper bag pocket envelope with machine stitching.

All you will need to complete the cards is some adhesive and some pop dots.

Card #1
4x6 white card base
4 x6 Yellow paper October afternoon
Red Check ribbon
Hand stamped For Someone Sweet Die Cut Sentiment
2 hand tied buttons and strawberry on pop dot.

Card #2
White 4 x 6 card base
Brown paper layered scallop flower with dodad button topped centre
4x6 floral/check paper
2x3 strawberry dot paper
30cm strawberry crinkle ribbon
mini shipping tag

Card #3
White 4x6 card base with rounded corners
Yellow honeycomb paper
Vintage themed fabric die cut label
Handcut layered felt flower topped with a yellow threaded button
Hand stamped birthday wishes sentiment

Card #4
White 4x6 card base with funky scallop edge and embossed with big dot.
Vintage themed wide fabric ribbon with pinked edge.
Big red button.
Button twine.
Hand stamped sending you a wish die cut label.
Machine stitched, hand stamped retro paper bag parcel/envelope.

Card #5
Note card sized white embossed base.
Base is die cut into label shape.
Hand cut layered brown paper and tulle flower, topped with blue fabric centre and yellow threaded button.
Hand stamped many thanks die cut label shaped sentiment.

Card #6
Note sized blue label shaped embossed card base.
Die cut label shaped sending you a hug sentiment
Die cut yellow patterned heart topped with a threaded red button.

*Vintage book flower topped with paper + tulle dodad, and threaded button

Kits retail at $19.95 including postage.
When you purchase the kit, a PDF file with colour photos and card details will be emailed to you.
Thank you.

October afternoon love + welcome sonny

2010-05-29T20:51:00.001+10:00

Welcome to Sonny.
I am a great aunty for the second time.
My neice Rebecca had a baby boy, Sonny, born at about 2.30am this morning.
He looks perfect.
Welcome Sonny. I am sure you will make your mum and dad very happy.

I love October Aftenoon papers.
I am addicted to October Afternoon.
They match ANY photo.
The colours are gorgeous, a little washed out but still bright.
Very vintage but in a modern way.
Here is my latest layout.
All October afternoon, and a handmade flower from the new June Cuddlez Kit which will go on sale at Scrapz.Biz on June 1.
So easy to make a page with these papers.
The green spot is my favourite.

On another note, today we went bowling for one of Tom's classmates birthday party.
It was fun. Good to catch up with the other class mums and dads.
Making some good new friendships...i love that.

Happy 43rd Birthday to me....

2010-05-26T21:00:00.001+10:00

Today I turned 43....actually, it is officially about 11.30 tonight.
Today I taught 14 kindergarten children. They sang to me and gave me a gorgeous book. It made me cry.
Today I drove my 1996 Ford Fairmont to work with my niece Ella who is in grade 5.
Today Tom and Dan had a sick day at home. They are on the road to recover.
Today my beautiful mum baked me a cake, brought me pink roses and gave me some money and a handmade scarf and hat.
Today my lovely boss Bern baked me a cake.
Today my lovely husband cooked me dinner and helped my son buy me a card and a gift. Thank you.
Today my gorgeous son wrote that he loves me in a birthday card.
Today he bought me perfume...the type that gets sprayed on your arm (family joke).
Today my sister Cath gave me a lovely black and white scarf and some of those lilies that I love.
Today I got text messages from my other sisters wishing me a great day.
Today my brother Tony and sister in law Cath gave me a bottle of my favourite champagne.
Today my sister in law Honey sent me a card with a scratchie that didn't win.
Today my parents-in-law were the first to phone me and sing me happy birthday over the phone.
Today my friend Vicki sent me a text message at 6am...today it is her birthday as well.
Today my sister-in-law Lucy, and her girls phoned me to wish me a happy birthday.
Today I got a gift from my dear friend Deb.
Today my dear friend Bev rang and emailed me a birthday message.
Today I got a text from lovely Nat...wish I could see her more and scrapbook together.
Today I got a call from Libby...I am wishing her all the best with her Dr. appointment.
Today was good.
Today I was surrounded by goodness and blessings.
Today I am thankful for such a wonderful family, both immediate and extended, and for old and new friends.
Today was good.
Today is the State of Origin....today my boys are yelling at the top of voices as Billy Slater scores a try for Queensland.

Today they all made me smile.

May 24 Layouts

2010-05-24T18:37:00.000+10:00

Week 19 Layouts for Scrapz.biz was actually last week..but here they are anyway.

Thanks for looking

Card Kits For Sale

2010-05-23T14:21:00.001+10:00

Well the June Cuddlez - Vintage Scrapz. Card Kit is nearly together. It features papers from October Afternoon Fly a Kite and Thrift shop, with some vintage goodies thrown in....buttons, old book pages, tulle, ribbon, felt, brown paper bags.
I have included some gorgeous hand made flowers by me LOL. Of course, these kits can be used for scrapbooking as well as card making, but if you like to give unique handcrafted cards, then these kits are the way to go.
This month I have done most of the work for you...all buttons are stitched, edges are inked, and machine stitching is done. All you basically have to do is to attach each element to your card and you are done...plus you still get the joy of creating it yourself.
The kits will be put into SCRAPZ.BIZ shop after June 1. They are limited, and last months sold out very quickly.
If you would like to order one here through my blog, just send me an email and I can organise one for you through direct deposit.

If you purchase the kit, I will send you a PDF of each card details.
Kits are retailing at $19.95 including postage.
I will list all the details as soon as the kits are finalised, but there will be enough materials to recreate 5 or 6 cards...great value for a unique hand crafted card.

Here are some sneak peaks of the kit.

Thanks for looking.

Deb

The photo sequence

2010-05-20T21:04:00.000+10:00

Hello there,
Often we need more that one shot to tell our story...and with the use of digital cameras, it is now OK to take heaps of photos...more than we will ever need or use(I know this leads to other issues, such as being brave enough to actually hit the delete button, but hey, we all have our burdens to carry. )

This week as I was browsing through my photo files, looking for something to inspire I came across a bunch of shots...actually 26 in all, and they certainly made me smile, plus I instantly remembered the morning I took them.
I didn't do anything with them, because they weren't what I wanted at the time. I was aiming for the crisp, clear eye look using natural window light.
Well, I can tell you, that wasn't happening that morning.

Now, when I look at these photos, they most definitely don't show beautiful crisp, clear blue eyes, but they do tell me another story... more interesting, more real, more about my boy at breakfast time when I sit across from him with my camera.

One of my nieces says that he is the 'most photographed' child she knows (probably with a roll of the eyes as well ), but I beg to differ...all scrapbookers kids are photographed like crazy.

So now that I am looking at these photos from a storytelling point of view, NOT a photographic point of view, and I want to scrap them.
I want to write the story that goes with them.
I need to use lots of them...the sequence of them...because they show HIM in all his kookiness...craziness...goofiness...and I love that.
I created this photo collage using a DIGITAL KIT which I purchased a long time ago.

And here is another set which I on Sunday morning. The little man helps with the laundry. I am training him to make a good husband one day.
Getting the washing out was one thing...but dropping it in the basket was much more fun.
I created my own template for this one in Photoshop.
I have tried to get a tutorial together using the video on my phone, but I am having issues with uploading it to my computer....it is on my 'to do' list.

PS. If you look closely, you can see me in my pj's up in the corner in the mirror...love sundays in pj's....the glory lasted until about 11am.

Stay tuned for a layout on the weekend.

Soccer + Mothers

2010-05-17T23:06:00.000+10:00

just quickly, sharing two of my latest layouts.

that's about it.
Too tired to type any more.
Off to bed.
Cheers

Crinkle ribbon

2010-05-10T18:25:00.001+10:00

I am really excited about a new product which Heike is stocking in her shop at Scrapz.Biz...Crinkle Ribbon. I have loved this stuff since first seeing on some cardmaker blogs in the USA, and Heike has tracked it down and will be selling it shortly in her shop.

We have got gorgeous Crinkle Ribbon available in 3 yard lengths @ $6 per pack. Use it as is or iron straight.
Available in Apple (green), Cabbage rose (pink), denim (blue) and white.

Also Crinkle Flowers which come in a pack of 3 ( two large and one small) @ 5.95 per pack.

Also coming, gorgeous doilies in matching colours.

This is just a sample of the ribbon...the other colours are lovely as well.
So keep a look out...I believe it won't last long.

Mothers Day

2010-05-09T20:58:00.001+10:00

it was such a lovely day.

Presents....

Cards...

Mass...Tom's job was to great all the mums as they entered the church and give them a chrysanthemum.

.

Cousins...Claudie and Mac. Tom loves them both.

My mum and dad. She is a mother 7 times.

And us...mother and father to one very special little man who happens to love iced chocolates and lemon meringue pie.

And finally, my mandatory Mothers Day shot with my son, complete with kooky photo face.

Happy Mothers Day to all the women who are lucky enough to have been given the wonderful opportunity to be a mum.

National Scrapbooking Day Competition

2010-05-01T08:08:00.001+10:00

Hello.
Over at Scrapz.Biz today we are running a National Scrapbooking Daily Dozen Challenge
Lots of prizes...including some of my own handcrafted cards.
Heike is also having a massive sale with up to 40% papers pre CHA 2010....truly...such fabulous savings.

Here are some of my samples for the challenges...they are super easy and quick - scraplifting IS encouraged.
You can create a card, and embellishment or a whole page for each challenge, it is totally up to you.
Each challenge relates to a word...and the idea is to create using that product or prompt.

S - scallop
C - chipboard
R - rose
A - alphabet
P - punches
B - buttons
O - October Afternoon
O - oval
K - kite
I - ink
N - nostalgia
G - guys

Thank you to Sheree for letting me use her gorgeous kite card in one of the challenges.

Happy NSD .

Massive Sale at Scrapz.Biz

2010-04-29T22:00:00.000+10:00

At Scrapz.biz, we are going to offer a MASSIVE 40% off the RRP of pre-CHA lines including:

- October Afternoon Farm Fresh, Report Card
- Basic Grey Nook & Pantry, Lemonade, June Bug
- Cosmo Cricket Earth Love, Nutmeg, Early Bird, The Boyfriend
- Crate Cottage, Season, Bliss
- Fancy Pants Dancing Girl, Little Sprout, Rough & Tough
- all K&Co
- LYB Traveler, Baby Safari
- all pre 2010 Making Memories
- MME Life Stories, Abbey Road
- Sassafras Las Amplify, Monstrosity, Sweet Marmalade
- Webster's A Sweet Life, Reflections

and many more ...

WOW...Heike is having a massive sale. This is your opportunity to grab a bargain, so head on over for a browse. We are also running some cool little competitions for National Scrapbooking Day...more prizes and challenges for over the weekend.

Have a great one.
Deb

May Ticklez kit

2010-04-29T10:08:00.000+10:00

Heike has put up some sneak peeks of the new kit for May. Absolutely stunning.

Our TICKLEZ of the month kit supplies you
with a fantastic range of co-ordinated papers
and embellishment at a discounted price.
The kit is available as a one-off purchase or
by subscription. All uploads into the
appropriate TICKLEZ gallery by the 30th of
the following month, will automatically go
into a lucky draw for a $10 shopping voucher. Our favourite submission for that month will receive a $15 shopping voucher!

This kit is excellent value and even better if you subscribe.
One month $34.95...6 month subscription price $29.95.
This would make a great mothers day gift.

Show Boy

2010-04-28T23:16:00.000+10:00

Tonight we went to our local show.
Here is my little 'star'...standing in front of the LIFE SIZE photo of himself to promote our lovely little St. Joseph's school.
It nearly killed him having this taken when rides were waiting for him LOL, but he played along with me because I was the one in charge of the purse!
We had such fun on the dodgem cars...my favourite...and we all squeezed into the seat on the WHIZZER ride...very very fast, but also fun. Tom got to shoot his first air rifle and won....another toy gun - like he needed another toy gun!
Steak sanga, hots chips and fizzy drink for dinner, followed by yummo coffee and fresh cinnamon mini donuts. It was worth the $100 it cost us....some fun memories.

Well. Off to bed. Work tomorrow.
Bye.
Oh, I have cut and prepped a bunch of papers, flowers, stars etc for my kindy kids to make a little mothers day canvas. Will post photos when they are done.

Chilling out layout

2010-04-26T19:40:00.000+10:00

I am really liking being able to easily make my own storyboards to suit my photos. Here is one I made on Easter Sunday, but it includes random 'home' shots....making banana on toast, my coffee, my computer, toms toys, etc

So easy to tell your story with them, and economical on photo paper..
All goodies are from Scrapz.Biz.
Thanks for looking,
Cheers
Deb
x

ANZAC day + Soccer+Layouts

2010-04-25T16:45:00.002+10:00

Happy ANZAC day...what a glorious day to celebrate being an Aussie. We marched together with the school. All those little Aussie flags in the hands of children...it looks fabulous.

And I have a layout to share...a celebration of the time I have been a mother.

I love the large scallop die which I have used on the spotty fabric paper. All the goodies on this layout can be purchased from SCRAPZ.BIZ at very very competitive prices.

On another note, yesterday was our second soccer match for the season. I took my camera this week, as last week I only just made it back from Brisbane in time for the game.

The new shoes.....

And this final shot was taken last night with the senior BOBCAT team. The Under 7's got to play a little demonstration game at half time...my little man scored a goal (proud mother I am!) and had his name mentioned over the microphone...."What a great goal! Who scored that?" (I yell loudly from the crowd "TOM MULLINS"...and I am NOT a crowd yeller, but see what you turn into when your kids play sport LOL)...and the man said, "Great shot Tom". I had one very proud and happy little man.

This week is also our local show, and our school has a wonderful display. I plan to take some photos and share here later.

Finishing off with some layouts to share which were made for DT work at Scrapz.Biz.

Have a great night.

HUGE SALE AT SCRAPZ.BIZ

2010-04-23T21:21:00.000+10:00

Hi There,
Just a quick post to let you know that Heike is having a massive sale over at Scrapz.Biz.
Just follow the link in the sidebar to go over and have a look.
Thanks,
Deb

Rose Garden

2010-04-19T15:17:00.000+10:00

Hello.
Today I have been productive in card making and un-productive in everything else. I always procrastinate when I have other paperwork to do, and always stress myself out by doing everything BUT what I should be.

So, I will just quickly share and then GO.
These cards were made using ROSE GARDEN PAPERMANIA paper pad from ScrapzBiz. Heike just got them in...so lovely and vintagey, shabby, girlie. So NOT what I usually create with, but that is the beauty of cards - you can use any papers and just give them away to some lucky recipients.

Thanks for stopping by, and if you would like to see more vintage papers, hop over to the shop to see another wonderful range from Graphic 45
Happy Monday.
Deb

EWES + CUPCAKES

2010-04-11T20:13:00.001+10:00

these were the two features of some cards I made last night.
Here are the EWE versions...

Here are the cupcake versions made using Basic Grey Nook and Pantry. LOOOOVE this paper.

Well, that is about it for me today.
I would love to cut and paste some more....but tonight I want to watch TV, a seriec on the ABC called 'Tess of the D'Urbvilles' or something along those lines.
Happy Sunday.
Deb

storyboards

2010-04-08T14:37:00.000+10:00

I love storyboards...thanks to RITA AT COFFEESHOP I now know how to make my own.
Here is my latest layout using one.

lots of fun.
..and have a look at this little cutie which I bought for my friend Nat and her new bubba Josie.

and her card...because she is JOSIE LILAC...it had to have lilac on it.

Well, that's it for today.
Felt good to scrap again...it is of course the first thing to go when I am busy, but I do miss scrapping so very much when other priorities take precedence.
Happy Thursday.

Hippity hoppity happy easter

2010-04-04T14:01:00.001+10:00

Hello and happy easter.

Been ages since I have posted...life has been very busy, but now the holidays are here and I am planning on catching up with scrappy stuff and photos.

Here are the shots taken this morning...easter 2010. Way too many eggs were left in not-so-secret places in our house, and it was very exciting finding them all. Who else had chocolate for breakfast????

This little collage was made using a CoffeeShop Storyboard Think I am in love with them - they are so easy to get multiple shots onto a page, perfect for all those 'event' photos that we take. I had snapped over 100 in the first 30 minutes upon waking this morning.

The font for the word 2010 is called Walk around the block...very cool and fun. Downloaded free from the net from Da Font.

Good news for my dad at present. He had scans the other day, they appear to have come back clear with no cancer cells anywhere other than at the initial site - this needs to be confirmed by his specialist but we are feeling much more hopeful with this news.

Anyway, off to have some more play with CoffeeShop storyboards.

Happy easter sunday,

Deb

hopeful

2010-03-20T22:51:00.000+11:00

been a big month.
packing
cleaning
moving house
being hopeful for my dad

trying not to worry about things that may not eventuate.
praying...
remember to enjoy your family...kiss your kids and remember how wonderful life is.

March already

2010-03-08T07:04:00.000+11:00

Again, blogging has escaped me. It is always the way with the start of a new school year. Lots of preparation and planning, just making it through the weeks and the to do lists.
Just a quick share of some work completed for Scrapz...there are some wonderful easter creations and projects being loaded daily over there, worth a look if you love to 'do' easter, or you can vary the projects to suit other themes. The girls always come up with some amazing stuff.
Now, onto my work....some layouts to share.

And this layout, which I made about Tom being a little monster. Right after this layout, we started a REWARDS chart together, and truly, it has worked a treat. He is back to my dream little boy, using his manners, NO tantrums (which was our biggest goal), and all his little self help jobs that he had to do each day to get his reward at the end of the week. He chose 'staying up late' for Fri and Sat night, and he earned his playstation back after a week of meeting his goals. We are all a happy family once again.

And this week, I have this cool little photo to share. This is what Tom plays with the other day...i love line-ups...looks like there was a big stand-off going on in the lounge room.

This is the collage I created with the photos from that little moment in time.

The words 'capturing the moments of life' are a brush from Ali Edwards. I think they were a freebie from a few weeks ago from a digital website. The information has escaped my brain at the present time.

I added in MARCH 2010 beind the brush on another layer, just so I know when this was for my album.

Hopefully, I will print it off today and make a layout with it, but not sure how things will go because I have a little sickie with me today. High temps, coughing and a blocked nose. It was FUN night.

Lastly, I have a few cards to share. Made these ages ago, but have lost my mojo a little with cards at the moment. Just busy with home stuff and not feeling very inspired. I need to go blog hopping and then I will be ready to make some more.

Well, that is it for now...well, nearly...this is for my dad, who is in hospital at the moment recovering from an operation.

God took the strength of a mountain,

The majesty of a tree,

The warmth of a summer sun,

The calm of a quiet sea,

The generous soul of nature,

The comforting arm of night,

The wisdom of the ages,

The power of the eagle's flight,

The joy of a morning in spring,

The faith of a mustard seed,

The patience of eternity,

The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,

He knew His masterpiece was complete,

And so, He called it ... Dad

Scrapz.amour

2010-02-02T21:31:00.000+11:00

Over at Scrapz.Biz the competiton above is about to begin. If you are a stamper, or want to learn some cool stamping techniques... or even have some issues/problems when stamping, then be sure to pop over there - each day a project will be posted and Jen will be teaching us all about stamping.

On another note, we are off to North Queensland Thursday morning - driving to Brisvegas tomorrow night and jetting out early in the next day. We are celebrating Grandad's 80birthday, so I am not sure if I will have internet access or not up there.
Looking forward to seeing everyone, it has been over 18mths since we were up there last...hopefully I will survive the heat - if not, then I will remember my mantra....KEEP CALM & CARRY ON!

I will finish off a quick photo share to demonstrate how to improve your backgrounds.
If you are interested in the workflow go over HERE to read some more.

First image straight out of camera.

Now add a bit of tweaking....oh I love this boy!

And finally with some text ready to be printed for a layout.

Happy Tuesday.

a birthday layout

2010-01-21T20:48:00.000+11:00

Here is my latest layout for Scrapz.biz. It is one about Tom's 6th birthday - added some text and a title in photoshop - love PS for making is so easy to journal.

We are preparing for 10 days of 'love' over at Scrapz at the beginning of Feb...all in the lead up to the big V day on Feb 14. The DT are busily getting their samples of inspiration ready, and Heike has the most gorgeous kit prepared for the Feb Ticklez...lots of sweet lovey dovey stuff in it. She has been selling out of her kits each month, they are such good value for money. She now has set up a subscription so that you don't miss out.

On the family front - my beautiful niece Georgia turns 18 today. Happy Birthday George. We went up to see you but you weren't there, so will catch up on Saturday.

And I will leave you with a little peak at some cards I have been making with some of the papers that are from the Feb Ticklez kit....

Jan 17 Challenge and a birthday photo

2010-01-17T08:03:00.000+11:00

Today is the final day for the challenges over at Scrapz.biz for the BIGGEST LOSER.
My sample page is about my one little word for 2010 which is 'family'.
Next month we have some more exciting things happening for Feb...all to do with LOVE..............
For now, we are back to weekly challenges and my little Documenting with Deb stuff. We also welcome Rach who is going to post daily with all sorts of interesting stuff to do with health, fitness, recipes and organisation. She will certainly keep us on track for 2010.

And just for me and the family...the birthday cake photo of Tommy on Friday night.

He didn't get his city cake...I got sick the morning of his birthday, but came good enough to make this one instead. He got to decorate and we made a big six out of smarties with a border of freckles - who wouldn't be happy with smarties and freckles????

Well, off to do some jobs around the house.

Have a great day.

Scrapz.biz sale

2010-01-16T15:03:00.000+11:00

50 % off patterned paper at Scrapz.Biz

2010-01-16T01:55:00.000+11:00

Well, I am just sharing the savings here...Heike is having a massive 50% off all her patterned papers over at SCRAPZ.BIZ from now until Sunday night. She needs to create some space for all the new CHA papers which are coming out very soon...so head over if you want a bargain.

This week over at Scrapz.biz I have shown some befores and after photos to demonstrate some cropping techniques.
Here is the sample LO I made using my great niece as my model. Thanks Tahlia.

Isn't she just gorgeous? Babies ARE such a nice way to start people.

Cheers,

Deb

Happy 6th Birthday Tom

2010-01-15T14:11:00.000+11:00

My little man is six today - well tonight actually. He was born at 6.12pm, 10 days overdue. He is happily watching "Over the Hedge" on his new portable DVD player. He has a new BMX bike and some new clothes....jean shorts WITH a belt (this was a big hit!). His cake is baking in the oven as I type - somehow I have to turn a chocolate slab cake into a city - I will need some luck with that one, but I will give anything a whirl once.
Dinner tonight is Taco's at his request. Pretty happy with that choice as it is easy to whip up and feeds a crowd with little fuss.
Love you my little man.

Hand cut...with scissors

2010-01-06T08:02:00.000+11:00

Remember when you cut out everything from patterned paper and used it as an embellishment?
Well todays challenge over at Scrapz.biz is to do just that.

Here are my samples.

the biggest loser

2010-01-04T08:12:00.001+11:00

The Biggest Loser Comp is up and running over at Scrapz.Biz. Some very inspiring work being done, and lots of ideas on tidying and sorting your scrap space.

Here are some of the pages I have completed.

Day 1 - Make a layout using something on your desk + 3 flowers.

Day 2 - Scraplift yourself.

This is my lift - below is the original page which I made when Tom was 3.

Day 4 - Use your scraps to make a patchwork background.

I used a square punch to make all of these cute squares from scraps of paper that I love.

I then raided my embellishment box and added stuff to each square - stickers, buttons, words, flowers, handcut shapes.

This was such a fun layout to make, plus it used up a heap of old goodies.

Think I will be making another one of these.

Have a great Monday.

Debx

===

2010 one little word

2010-01-03T09:11:00.000+11:00

Every year, Ali Edwards chooses 'one little word' which she uses to 'live' her year by - big picture stuff, goal setting stuff, dreamy stuff.

You can read more about it [url=http://aliedwards.typepad.com/_a_/2009/12/one-little-word-2010.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium][u]HERE[/u][/url]

My words for the past three years have been

2007 - enjoy - this was relevant for me having a 3 year old and felt pressured (only from myself) to 'get things done', and I wanted to focus more on 'living' my life and enjoying it.

2008 - accept - this was particulary important for me to 'accept' what I can't change, don't stress about it, and move on. Again, a spin off from 'enjoy'. I was working 4 days a week and physically could not keep my house tidy and clean as much as I liked, without spending all my time (and my family's!) maintaining it, so I tried to be more 'accepting' of the routine of our life.

2009- efficient - the next word was to help me move forward, to improve things to make my life easier. I wanted to streamline my systems at home, improve how I managed things, only wanted to handle things 'once' (eg. papers, washing,) like putting things away, having a place for things, decluttering around the house. This was a very good word for me, and probably one which has the most meaning for me so far.

2010 - ???? Pondering my new word...I am going into a new job in the new year - only 3 days a week, possibly more at times.

Tom is in Year 1 at school.

We are probably going to sell our home, move house (only up the road :) ), and possibly, if all goes well, build a new home.

Dan wants to change jobs, possibly start a course to help him obtain a new career.

So lots of new things to embrace.

We are in a good, exciting but sometimes worrying place(always when big decisions need to be made).

So, I have decided that my one little word will be FAMILY.

So what is your 'one little word' going to be????

On another note, Scrapz.biz is running THE BIGGEST LOSER competition.
It is a full 17 days of missions and challenges, each under a category of:
1. USE IT - scrapping challenges to help you put a dent in your stash
2. MOVE IT - missions to help you sort and tidy your scrap stash
3. LOSE IT - exercise and nutrition tips to whip you into shape for the new year.

So head on over to have some fun.

Fancy Pants Little Sprout

2009-12-22T12:37:00.000+11:00

Made some of these last night.

Such sweet soft papers...and of course, love the spotty pink one from October afternoon.

Hope you are enjoying your day.
Deb
x

past and present

2009-12-21T08:20:00.004+11:00

Christmas last year...and Christmas this year.

Face a little less chubby.

Fingers a little longer.

Same shirt!

Love this boy.

and a few goodies to share...

All cards made with goodies from Scrapz.biz.

December 4, 5 and 6

2009-12-07T15:52:00.000+11:00

And here is our christmas tree - I am trying to get a decent photo, but not having much luck. I need a new tripod. Our tree actually looks better than this now, it has red baubles all over it.

Happy december six. We are off to Tom's first school Christmas Concert. Can't wait.

Taking more december pictures.

december three + crate paper cards

2009-12-03T22:57:00.000+11:00

This afternoon...in my bedroom...going through photo albums. Where does he get that gene from????

Now sharing some cards made using goodies from Scrapz.biz

and over at scrapz.biz, we are running the 12 days of christmas and there are some great challenges and prompts going up each day.

Here is one of my samples.

Happy december three.

December Daily

2009-12-02T23:37:00.000+11:00

Happy december.

Bo Bunny Love Bandit

2009-11-19T22:12:00.000+11:00

Just sharing some cards made using Bo Bunny Love Bandit cutouts and papers.
Seriously cute papers.

Baby Cards

2009-11-16T19:19:00.000+11:00

This is the SIMPLEST baby card I have ever made...I got the pram idea from a card magazine and then added my own design with the papers, tickets and stamps.

The papers are from Scrapz.biz and Heike is having a massive sale at the moment in her shop.

new friends

2009-11-16T13:46:00.000+11:00

Just saying a quick hello to some new friends which I made over the weekend at a scrapbooking retreat in Coffs Harbour.
Hi to our room mates....Jo, Alison, Michelle and Margaret.
And another hello to the two lovely ladies who sat opposite me....Linda and Dawn. Looking forward to having a cuppa with you in Yamba one weekend.
And hi to Gail...a girl who said, "You can take the girl out of the bush, but you can't take the bush out of the girl!" I so enjoyed chatting with you.
Hi to the lovely Liz...fellow card maker and die cutting queen!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And to anyone else who was there and has managed to find me here....Amanda, Donna, Joelene, Chelsea, Kristen and Karen. I met sooooo many lovely ladies and had such a great time. Thank you.

I will post some of the cards which I made over the weekend when I get a chance to take some piccies. Housework today and work the rest of the week.
Cheers,
Deb

some sharing

2009-11-16T00:09:00.000+11:00

Hi all,
Just updating with some projects which I have made for Scrapz.biz recently, and just to let you know that Heike is having a big sale over at her store, scrapz.biz. Heike's products are the most competitive prices around (and she doesn't even tell me to say that LOL!). Some papers from great companies like October afternoon have been reduced right down to just over $1!!!! So go over and check it out.

This layout below was for the Scrapper of Oz competition...such an amazing group of entries in this comp.

This was for the next round. A layout about our favourite shoes. Apologies for the colour...it is actually a lovely white cardstock background.

These are my SKINNY christmas cards made using Basic Grey eskimo kisses

and another basic grey card with some christmas music sheet paper.

and some more.......

This was another layout for the scrapper of oz.

And some christmas cards made using Creative imaginations Woodland quilt.

And a couple made using My Little shoebox

Well, that's it for me.

Goodnight.

College Press Sweet Shoppe

2009-10-27T07:06:00.000+11:00

I have made a set of cards from the College Press Sweet Shoppe papers. I have made some before, but wanted to use up all my pieces, as well as use the journaling card paper.
So here they are.

All these papers were bought from Scrapz.biz at the lowest of low prices. Heike is the store owner and offers amazing prices on all her products. They are a range of papers called collage press sweet shoppe and they are simply stunning in real life.

Off to work now.

Happy Tuesday.

Melbourne Cup Flutter

2009-10-20T23:28:00.000+11:00

Heike over at Scrapz.biz is running her Melbourne cup flutter. A cool little comp run like a sweep. To enter, you just need to make a layout.

I made two samples.

And this is what was out my back door a couple of nights ago...the cane fields ablaze once again.

And here is a sneak peak of my Round 2 layout for The Scrapper of OZ.

And finally, another set of Hootie owl xmas cards made with fabric fronts, and a set with some stamped fronts.

Gotta go to bed,

Night.

Inspired by Ali

2009-10-18T09:03:00.000+11:00

Today over at Ali E's blog she has posted about her day. I am just doing my version about my day.

Outside my window...burnt sugar can fields and breezy wind.

I am thankful for... the return of my laptop, neighbours who have become friends, and the local pool, my sister living close by - off for a visit this afternoon.

From the kitchen...take away fish and chips for lunch on the way home from the pool. Tonight, simple steak and salad.

I am wearing...black boardshorts, togs and no shoes.

I am creating...two layouts for scrapz.biz and some christmas cards.

I am going...to visit my sister as soon as I have finished this post.

I am reading... old house magazines from last xmas....looking for decorating ideas and special goodies to make for this special time of year coming up.

I am hoping... to start exercising more regularly...aiming to walk for an hour 4 days a week.

I am hearing...the sound of the televsion, the PC fan, the clock ticking.

Around the house...Tom is resting on the lounge watching TV (after a morning at the pool and a busy school holiday schedule), Dan is on the PC - after working for 5 hours this morning.

One of my favorite things...spending lazy days with Tom during the school holidays, and grateful that I did not have to work.

A few plans for the rest of the week...return to work full time for the next two weeks and get back into our routine.

A picture to share...

Hey Good Looking

2009-10-17T16:37:00.000+11:00

Occasionally, we actually get a decent photo of the two of us.

Melbourne Flutter Competition

2009-10-16T19:48:00.000+11:00

Over at Scrapz.biz this week Heike has concocted another competition called Melbourne cup Flutter.

Any members (including the DT) must make a Layout following the criteria specified by Heike.

MELBOURNE CUP FLUTTER

Create a layout with the following:

- title: Ready, Set, Go
- colours: one of the colour combos from last year's race
- an element of time
First prize $30 voucher, 2nd prize $20 voucher, 3rd place $15 voucher and a set of Sassafras Las stamps for lucky last.
Giddy-up!
The first 24 entries go into a sweep with some great money as prizes.

Heike is always thinking of challenging comps with fantastic prizes.
Just a quick share of a couple of cards which I made yesterday.

And a layout using a digital brush for the title.

Thats about it for me today.

Happy Friday.

Welcome Tahlia Paige

2009-10-14T08:23:00.000+11:00

This morning one of my nieces made me a GREAT aunty...Tenille and Ryan, welcome to your beautiful baby Tahlia Paige.
We were getting a little worried as she was in labour quite a long time, but she now has a beautiful 6lb something (not exactly sure of her weight) gorgeous bundle.
Life will never be the same for them.

A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for.
-- Anonymous

2009-10-11T23:47:00.000+11:00

New things

2009-10-11T15:08:00.000+11:00

Lots of NEW things in this post...so here goes.

NEW FRIENDS

Last week I was fortunate enough to have a catch up with Heike, Sheree, Leanne and Rach. Even though it was only brief, it made me realise what great friends I have made, and will continue to make online at Scrapz.biz . Thanks girls for a great lunch...gotta love Nachos!

NEW COMPETITIONS

Today marks the start of a MAJOR COMPETITION over at Scrapz.biz. The Scrapper Of Oz begins today. This is a very clever competition which is sure to spark your creativity, and Heike has put together some wonderful prizes - even if you don't win, but complete all challenges, you still receive a prize - now that has got to be good thing.

I completed two sample layouts for round 1. This was such fun, and it felt great to be completing the challenge using the same criteria as the contestants.

The first round is all about DREAMS....so here are mine.

He dreams of winning lotto and early retirement.

She dreams of becoming a great photographer.

He dreams of having a fun time every day.

NEW CARDS.

Here are some new cards which I completed for World Card Making Day which we held at scrapz.biz . What an amazing gallery of cards...such a great response from everyone, which made it successful and fun.

NEW LAYOUTS

This layout was for the Rusty Pickle comp held at Scrapz a few weeks ago. Just one about being lucky...something I need to remember more often.

And my muffin recipe layout....one that I did for Documenting With Deb over at Scrapz.

Well. That is about it for me today.
I am off to watch a movie and hopefully get some more cards made tonight.

My little niece is due to have her baby today..all the best Tenille and Ryan. Hopefully you will have a little bundle by tonight.

Deb

World Card Making Day Celebrations at Scrapz.Biz

2009-09-30T20:18:00.000+10:00

It is World Card Making Day on Saturday October 3rd. World Card Making Day is a special day especially for card makers around the world, to celebrate the creativity of handmade cards and the personal connection that they create, between friends and family. It is a day to connect with fellow card makers both near and far, to applaud the creativity that powers the craft, and to provide an opportunity for card makers to connect and find resources that will empower, inspire, and encourage them in their card making.

We would like to invite you

To celebrate

World Cardmaking Day

with us at SCRAPZ.BIZ

Challenges will be posted in the forum starting on Friday 2nd October and will continue over the weekend. All entries are to be uploaded in the WCMD Members Gallery by Wednesday October 7th Midnight. Each entry will earn you a ticket in the random draw, to win one of three prizes.

On another note, tomorrow is Thursday which means all the DT weekly challenge samples get posted. There are always so many inspirational ideas there...well worth a look. The gallery is looking fabulous with people starting to participate in the challenges. There is a fantastic Rusty Pickle prize pack /comp happening over there at the moment...some wonderful entries.
Happy Wednesday,
Deb

Come and join in the fun!!!

Super shopping deals

2009-09-24T18:49:00.000+10:00

Hi,

Just spreading the love here...Heike over at http://www.scrapz.biz/ has an amazing deal going at the moment...read on.

ONE CENT OFFER - September 24, 2009
This week check out our ONE CENT DEAL. Receive one of the Sassafras Las Sweet Treat stickers for only 1 cent if spend more than $50 excluding postage in the store this week. (*while stock lasts) There are 6 different designs to choose from in the One Cent Offer section in the shop hereThere are more chances for you to win a Basic Grey paper pack. This week every shopper's name will go in the draw for the complete line of Indian Summer papers.Good luck!

So if you are after a scrapping bargain, I suggest you head on over.

On another note, here is my latest Documenting with Deb layout called 'Around the house'.

Happy Thursday,

Deb

Latest layouts

2009-09-23T07:38:00.000+10:00

Over at http://www.scrapz.biz/designer-zonez I have been busy documenting each Monday in September.

Here are some of the layouts I have made in the last two weeks. The latest one called "Around the house" will go up on Thursday.

And here is a peak of this weeks layout.

Scrapbook Creations Cover Girl

2009-09-16T22:46:00.000+10:00

Guess who made the cover of Scrapbook Creations #70....MY LAYOUT! I am tickled pink...a cover of a magazine. The photo is stunning...it was one of Mark and Trilby's wedding shots, I am so happy for them to be featured.

It was a lovely ending to a great day today.

Documenting with Deb at Scrapz.biz.

2009-09-12T13:13:00.000+10:00

This week at Scrapz.biz, I have started my MONTH OF MONDAYS. This week I took photos of my second week of work at St. Joey's primary school maclean. Just a few snaps from things through out the day. Going to work without a uniform has been tricky, but i have managed to create 5 or so outfits that will be designated for "school". Once I wear something to school, it always feels weird to wear it on weekends! Go figure, they are just clothes!

And here are some cards I have made lately.

happy 46th dan

2009-09-12T13:00:00.000+10:00

Wishing you a happy day.
Today you went to work at the Harwood Sugar Mill.
Today I went to work at St. Joseph's Primary School, Maclean.
Today Tom went to school at St. Joseph's Primary School, Maclean.
Today you and Tom got a haircut from Cathy.
Today Cathy bought you a mud cake and candles.
Today we had drinks and nibbles at Tony and Cathy's...Aaron and Alex came up, John and Nicky came over, and the kids all played.
Today all the clothes Ibought you didn't fit!
Today Tom had a sleepover at John and Nicky's.
Happy day Dan.
Love deb
x

September Challenge

2009-09-01T19:16:00.000+10:00

It is my turn to create the challenge over at http://scrapz.biz.com/ this month. I decided to call it, "Let's get personal"...mainly because the site and store is new, and I thought it would be a good way to get to know each other a little more - plus, as scrappers, we rarely feature ourselves in our pages.

Your challenge this month is to create a layout that reflects something personal about YOU...

To complete the challenge, you need to include the follow the criteria below;

1. Interview yourself...yes, that's right, you need to complete a questionaire, and use this information somewhere on your layout.

2. You need to have a photo of you, or at least a body part! You can have more than one photo.

3. You need to have text somewhere on your photo! (either use a photo editing program or real stuff like letter stickers, rub-ons, a title tag, or even your own handwriting!)

September Challenge:Let's get personal

QUESTIONAIRE

Who are you?

What is your favourite clothing to wear?

Do you have any habits...good or bad?

What did you eat for lunch today?

What do you see as one of your best strengths?

Who is the last person you sent a card to?
What would be the BEST birthday gift ever?

Who would you like to be more like? And why?

What makes you happy?
Where would you love to see yourself in 5 years time?

Here is my sample.

I have printed my journaling and questionaire onto a transparency, then stitched it down on the layout.

COme over to scrapz. to have a play. There is a $15 monthly prize going, along with all the weekly challenges. Heike also has some absolute bargains in all Basic Grey this month.

Happy 72nd mum

2009-08-30T22:22:00.000+10:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful mum who turned 72 today. I made her choc chip mini muffins in great cupcake cases with pink icing - green and pink, her two favourite colours.
Her card read...if we were meant to pop out of bed, we would all sleep in toasters. My mum does not pop out of bed, so this is the perfect card for her. We all chipped in and bought her a beautiful patchwork quilt for her bed. Had a lovely bbq lunch which Dan cooked, and I made salads. Nice and easy. It was a lovely day.

birthday party pics

2009-08-23T21:20:00.001+10:00

Today was my dear friend Michelle's little girls 5th birthday (officially tomorrow, but party today). I have been taking photos at Anna's birthday for the past 3 years...parties are tricky to get good shots, but I have managed to snag a couple of nice ones. The kids had a blast....and I always admire the braveness of parents who invite 20+ children to a birthday party!!!!

Happy Birthday Anna!

Cupcakes and Icecreams

2009-08-21T16:39:00.001+10:00

I made these little yummies using Collage Press Sweet Shoppe papers.

So divine...i could just keep making them. After mastering the first one, the rest were easy peasy.

Head over to scrapz.biz and see the cool shaped cards which Sheree has made for this weeks Noteworthy challenge.

Mel has made another stunning layout using green and pink...

Lydell has created an amazing and interesting sketch...and,

Jen has created some scrummo yummies all packaged up for gifts.

have a great one,

Cheers,

Deb

Documenting...

2009-08-11T19:50:00.000+10:00

This is a page I made for Jen's challenge at scrapz this week...Paint a rainbow. Each week there will be a colour challenge, and this weeks combination is blue and orange - I used some old and some new papers on this one - feels good to use up scraps.

Next month I plan to start my special little project at www.scrapz.biz i will create some interest and get some people to play along with me.

Happy Tuesday.

Deb

the list layout

2009-08-09T21:31:00.000+10:00

Oh...2nd post for today for me. I made this layout for a weekly challenge set by Sheree over at scrapz.biz....based on a sketch. I rarely use a big circle element like this, but the more I look at it, the more Ilike it. I stamped the word EAT very lightly around the circle because it didn't feel finished off (Sheree wrote her journaling around her circle).
I have used Cosmo Cricket Early Bird papers again, with the stickers and the border strips. I am going to order some more of this paper...I love it.

The layout itself shows Tom writing our shopping list...hence the food theme and the word eat. He is such a cool little writer - just love the way he attempts to spell words....sosages (sausages). Froot (fruit) and so on....AND he adds pictures! Very cute.
Thanks for looking.
Cheers and Happy Sunday.

Hens and WOA'S (Wise Old Aunties!)

2009-08-09T19:09:00.000+10:00

My beautiful niece had her Hen's Day on August One...I have lots of photos to share. Basically, the Day started off with High Tea at Versace....very glam. Then onto a bus to Sirromet Winery at Cleveland....then Pizza (yummo) and punch at their apartment....followed by kareoke in a private room (good fun). Then the WOA'S went home, and the 'hens' partied on.

Thanks Hayles, Georgie and Jos...a great day.
Oh...and we named ourselves the WOA'S...AKA Wise Old Aunties - because that is how we felt around all the young beautiful girls hee hee.
Here she is...the beautiful hen.

Followed by my beautiful mum!
And my other beautiful niece Georgie, and my SIL Cath.
And me and my 4 sisters and my mum... Left to right...Jenny, Me, Mum, Cathy (Hen's mum) and Kayleen.

Cath and Hayles.

And Hayley's gorgeous curls...worth the wait.

Kayl and Jen...two of my older sisters.

Bye.

PS Scrapz.biz have HEAPS of weekly challenges going on...if you want to win some gift vouchers, click on the little birdie link on the left at the top of my blog.

the big day

2009-08-05T21:05:00.000+10:00

Tomorrow is the big day over athttp://scrapz.biz.com Challenges are going up, and the DT are revealing their first samples. Go check it out, should be fun.

Early bird card set

2009-08-04T10:10:00.001+10:00

This set of cards uses the Cosmo Cricket early bird papers and goodies. So so cute in real life.

Over at Scrapz.biz. Heike has organised some great competitions. Mel has put up her monthly challenge - scrap about winter, and there are inspirations and challenges being put up each day, so there is always something new to look at, or a challenge to get that mojo working again.

Scenic Route

2009-07-26T16:46:00.000+10:00

Scenic Route paper has been a friend of mine for a long time. I don't think I have ever seen a line I didn't like, and I especially love the pink and green combination in this paper.
The first card in this set was made for a customer (my first request outside of my family and friends for a card LOL), so I thought I may as well whip up a few more whilst I was at it. Trying to build some stock up to begin my little card making venture....just need about 48 hours in each day and then I should be good to go!

And, this layout is about the face my boy puts on when he is pouting! Just plain cute, I have to remember to be consistent when he pulls this one!

New Online store

2009-07-21T21:16:00.000+10:00

My very dear friend Heike has just opened a new online scrapbooking store...if you want great products, great service and GREAT prices, pop over to http://www.scrapz.biz.com/ and check it out.
I wish her all the best with her new venture...she is the best organised person I know (anyone with 7 children knows ALL about organising)!
I will be doing some work over there for her...planning it out now...working on photography and storytelling - and combining the two together. My little place in her forum will be documenting with deb and I am really excited to be starting on this journey.
Look forward to seeing you over there.
Cheers,
Deb

Cosmo Cricket

2009-07-20T21:54:00.000+10:00

This is the beginning of a series of cards made with the Cosmo Cricket Early Bird line....this paper is vintage and funky and makes very cute cards. Using up some of my older things in my stash as well - this is a GOOD thing! I don't ever throw anything out, and more often than not, I do manage to use it, even after years of hoarding.

The little owl is hand cut from some crimped cardboard (not part of the kit)
The red ribbon (from Lincraft) IS gorgeous in real life.
"You are" has been stamped using Kaisercraft alphabet stamps.
The crafting kit has 12 double sided papers - plenty to create a stack more cards ...the journaling page is fantastic for card sentiments. More to come later when I have whipped up a few more.
TFL
Deb
x

2 sketches 4 You - sketch 29

2009-07-12T16:26:00.001+10:00

I made this card for http://2sketches4you.blogspot.com/

...my first attempt at a card sketch. I didn't win but I did manage to get in the...

Fab 5
Sherri
Deb
Nina
Edna
Lisa

which I was pretty chuffed about.

The stamp is from Hero arts and it is very very cute.

And a quick post of some other cards I have made recently.

Not the greatest photos...but at least they are up there.