Happy New Year

Hi there,

Happy New Year to you all.  It's the very last day of 2011 & what a year it's been.  It didn't start off so well what with all the floods, earthquakes & loads of other disasters.  Lets hope 2012 is a better year all round.  I guess it also means New Years Resolutions as well.  I'm still trying to decide what mine will be this comming year.  I think I will have to think on them for a bit.  Have you decided on yours yet?  I'd love to hear what they are.  Or are you one, not to make any?  I make them & then usually they go by the wayside like everyone elses.  Maybe I should turn mine into a list & keep it out where it can be seen everyday.  Either way I think they are something to strive for.

Are you planning to have a party or go to one?  Me I will be home alone with the girls whilst my dh is at work.  I don't mind as I'm socially awkward.  I am hoping to not get side tracked tonight as I want to make some cards & possible start on a Christmas Organiser for 2012.  Anything to help make the "Silly season" a little easier. 
      

I thought I would post a couple of pictures of my Christmas tree from this year.  Do you like how the ornaments are about two feet off the bottom of the tree?  I can't wait for next year when maybe all of the ornaments can go on the tree once again & maybe all of the tree will get decorated.  If you look closely you will see heaps of Emsy's decorations from the last three years at Preprep, plus the beautiful ornaments I got in Hannah's ornament swap from a few years ago.  All out of harms way from the monster err I meant Lilly.  Even the pressies didn't make it under the tree until after Emsy & Lil's went to bed.  Just to be safe.

Well we are about to head upstairs for tea (Corned Silverside & salad - yum), bath & the girls, bed.  Have a Happy & safe New Years where ever you are celebrating it.  See you all next year ;P

Hugs to you all
Paula xoxoxoxoxo

 

One more Christmas card

Merry Christmas everyone,

Well I've almost done it all.  The baking is finished, the cards are almost done (just one last one for this year), but the trampoline is still waiting....................

Any hoo here is a card that I made using one of the lastest challenges from CAS-ual Friday Blog here.  Of the two challenges I chose the brown paper packages tied up with string.  So hope this is ok. 

I made this card for the ladies at my LSS.  They are the most wonderful caring people that you could ever meet.  Barbi the owner is such a sweetheart!  They often let me display my cards (& some of yours) in the shop.  

Well dear friends I want to wish you all the most joyous of Christmases & I do hope it's all you ever wanted. 

Merry Christmas & hugs to you all xoxoxoxo

Merry Christmas to you all

Merry Christmas everyone,

I do hope that you all enjoy yourselves & have a fantastic, safe Christmas & that 2012 is a wonderful year for you all.

Don't you just love this "traditional" Christmas photo of my two girls?  Every year we get a photo with Santa, although I uaually have to be in the picture somewhere.  This year was the first time I didn't have to be in the actual photo but as you can see Lils' wasn't a "happy camper" about the whole thing.

I also hope that at this time you are stress & worry free, if that is at all possible.  I know for me it will be a bit stressful.  All I have to do is put together a trampoline (with some help from my dad) make some Rocky Road, Fudge & mini Christmas Puddings - nothing to it (yeah right).  My plans have sort of gone out the window as I was hoping to get the bulk of the cooking done this morning whilst Emsy was staying over at her Pa Pa's for the night.  Execpt that she didin't go but she will be there tonight so I am hoping whilst LIls' is having her nap I can get the bulk of it done then.   It's easier to cook when I only have to wrangle one kid.  I have organised for the girls to spend tomorrow afternoon at my parents place whilst my dad & I put the trampoline together.  If all goes to plan I will bring the girls home just after dark, park a little further back on the drive way & get them upstairs before they notice it.  I also must remember to draw the kitchen curtains so they can't see it.  I so hope I can pull this off.   Doug will be working so as usually it will be just me & the girls (I hate that) but at least Doug doesn't have to work Christmas Day night & will also get the next two nights after that off as well.

Wishing  you all the very best & have a safe & wonderful Christmas, see you all in the New Year.  Hugs Paula & the girls xoxoxoxoxo 

Mojo Monday - Sketch 218

Hi Lovelies,

Yet again this is a second post in the one day.  Please feel free to scroll down or go here.  I am hoping not to make a habit of this. 

This card I made using the latest Mojo Monday Sketch.  I made a fairly simple card today.  I used my oval nesties & added a sticker then found some small scraps to add to the card base & a stamp (no idea who made it) for the sentiment.  I went around the edges of the sentiment & sticker with distress inks to help them pop.  At first I found the sketch a little challenging but got there  in the end.

Have a great week ahead & happy crafting xoxoxoxo

CPS Card Sketches 247

Hi Lovelies,

Well I got a little carried away with this sketch & made two cards.  Still using up my scraps & still making Christmas cards.  This time I went looking through my stamp draws to see what I had that I haven't used for a while & this is what I came up with.  My personal favourite is the second card.  I think of the two it's more festive.  I used vellum with flocked snowflakes on the first card & that seems to have dulled it down quiet a bit.  I guess you live & learn.  I also used distress inks on the sky & reindeer which has given it a mottled effect, not sure if I'm a fan of that yet. 

Well I'm off to try & make about 5 more cards in 2 hours (mission impossible).  Have a great weekend & have a wonderful week ahead xoxoxoxo

Try Stampin' On Tuesday Challenge 44

Hi Lovelies,

This is my second post for today.  You can scroll down or go here to see it ;).  I really enjoyed doing this sketch.  I didn't stick to it exactly but hope it is still ok for the challenge.  I decided that my flowers should have their own row of music.  This was such a simple card to put together.  I used some more of my scraps & a piece of vintage music sheet.  I inked the edges of the music sheet & the Basic Grey papers with Vintage Photo Distress ink.  The sentiment is by Hero Arts & was stamped with Versamark Black.  The flowers are from Kaisercraft, I layered them together (I was going for a Pointsetter look), using the red & white colours before putting a small hole in the centre so I could thread the yellow flower (not sure who makes them) through them.  I added glue dots to the back to keep them all together before sticking them to the card.

Thanks for stopping by & have a wonderful creative weekend xoxoxoxo

Card Pattern Sketch 144

Hi Lovelies,

Here is a card I've done using Card Patterns latest sketch here.  I've have turned the sketch sideways.  I used my circles nestie on the vintage music paper then added a doily to the back of it, just to add some extra interest.  I then fussy cut the penguin & trees.  I used glue dots to adhere them to the card adding pop dots to the middle tree for something different.  The sentiment is from Hero Arts.  The patterned papers are from my scrap stash. 

Thanks for stopping by today & have a great weekend :D xoxoxoxo 

Jingle Belles - Candy Kisses

Hi Lovelies,

This card was inspired by the latest Jingle Belles challenge - Candy Kisses.  Which I am sad to say is their last challenge for this year :(.  But they are comming back next year (phew) & I know I will definately try to play along more often.  I loved the challenges & the fact I didn't have to rush (now) with making Christmas cards.  I didn't get to play along every week, but loved it when I could.  I used some of my favourite things on this card - Bugaboo digi image, Copics & of course Basic Grey. 

Thanks for stopping by & have a great week ahead.  Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxo

PS Emsy has a school concert tonight, I'm hoping to get one or two nice photos to share later ;) xoxoxo

Card Patterns Sketch 142

Hi Lovelies,

This is my second post for today, please feel free to scroll down to see my first or go here :).

This card is for the latest Card Patterns challenge here.  I really enjoyed making this card & the best bit was this is all scraps!  I only had to cut two pieces of paper for this card - how cool is that!  I am definately in Christmas mode of late.  I have so many christmas cards to make, like everyone else at the moment.  Thats why I love these sketch challenges, it gives me a starting point & takes some of the stress out of it.  All the stamps on this card are from Hero Arts.

Thanks for stopping by today & have a great weekend xoxoxoxo   

More Christmas cards

Hi Lovelies,

Well I'm definately back now (unless I've just jinxed myself).  Computer seems to be working again.  Which means I can visit you all when I get some time to myself (maybe if I forego some sleep I will be able to visit you all). 

This card is for the latest Try Stampin' On Tuesday challenge here.  I really enjoy their sketches.  So I do hope that if you are stuck for ideas you pop over to see them. 

This card is made from more of my scraps, which is why I've added a row of gems to the bottom corner - they where leftovers & I wanted to use them up.  The Santa is a sticker.  I brought a sheet of them the other day, because they look so cute.  The stamps are from Hero Arts.

Thanks for stopping by & have a great weekend crafting everyone xoxoxoxo     

November/December CCC

Hi Lovelies,

Well I managed to upload a picture & things seem to be returing to normal around here.  Although we are still having issues with the computer.  Now my dh can't recieve any emails either, except one that keeps resending to us & the "techies" can't seem to help either.  So they are thinking it's a server issue & will get back to us in the next 24 hours, fingers crossed.

Anyways here is my card for the latest CCC over on Lily Pad Cards.  I made it last week (hoping that I could play along).  I kept it pretty simple & tried to use all three of the themes for this challenge.  Thanks for popping by today.  

I'm hoping by tomorrow arvo I will be able to see pictures again after a few minutes (not hours) & will be able to leave you all some comments on your wonderful cards.

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxo  

My computer :(

Hi Lovelies,

Just popping in to let you all know I'm having computer "issues" at the moment.  I am not sure if it we've used up all our downloads for the month (we might have gone a little lot overboard since coming home) or if it is our dinosaur of a computer that is playing up.  It seems to be taking forever to download pictures & I can't access my emails.  Very frustrating! I was hoping Santa would bring me a nice shiny new laptop for Christmas this year, but since we just had to replace the TV (it died just like the camera).  My family can't seem to live with out a TV (I must admit I prefer listening to music than watching TV - I get more done that way) I think Santa has been & gone ;P. 

So if you don't see/hear from me I'm not ignoring you all - just having the usual computer issues *sigh*.

Happy crafting every one xoxoxoxo 

A Deer card

Hi Lovelies,

This card is for two challenges, Lily Pad Cards Kathy's Colour Palette & Try Stampin' on Tuesdays latest sketch.  Although I must admit I did struggle with the sketch, but am hoping the circle counts.  I started out with pale blue c/s & emossed it with the Swiss Dot folder.  I then used a white gel pen to go over all the dots.  The Deer is from Darkroom Door (one of my most fav Christmas sets) & the sentiment is from Hero Arts.  I also used Tim Holtz Distress inks in Aged Mahogany, Rusty Hinge & Wild Honey.  I used a circle die from Nestibilities & a fancy tag from them as well. 

Thank you for stopping by today & have a great week ahead.  As always happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxo

Teacher cards

Hi Lovelies,

Today I'm just doing a share.  These two cards I have made as part of my Christmas gift baskets for two of the three teachers at Emsy PrePrep.  I've been checking out You tube & finding some great videos on using Copics.  I do think I am slowly getting better at using them.  I really like the shading on the crayons, the rest is a bit ho-hum.  But none the less I am happy with them.  The image is from Bugaboo I am really in love with their stuff.  In fact I am thinking of adding a gift voucher from Bugaboo as part of the prize over on the DCD challenge for the next two months. 

This card is using another Bugaboo Digi image.  I was practicing my shading again.  I then went through my scraps & found some papers that seemed to go well together & came up with this card. 

Thanks for stopping by today & Happy crafting xoxoxoxo

Boo!

Hi Lovelies,

I know I'm a little late with a Halloween card, but I do have a good reason (really I do).  Here in Australia Halloween isn't celebrated like it is else where.  But having said that it is slowly creeping into our culture.  I made this card with leftover cutouts from a basket I made for Emsy.  I used the latest CPS sketch here & basically used up some leftovers from other projects. 

I'd share the basket I made so Emsy could go trick or treating (at one neighbour, who I supplied the treats for) but our camera is deader (yes a new word :P) than, well Halloween it self.  Oh well lets add it to the long, long list of things that need replacing.

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxo

Bunny card - CPS challenge

Hi,

I know two posts in the one day.  I nearly forgot that some challenges change on the weekend so had better post this card now, so I can enter.  I had so much fun making this card.  I started by colouring the image in first.  Not a good move (when will I learn to see if I have matching papers first?) but I got my act together in the end.  I have been trying to get my shading right with my copics.  I watched a video earlier this week & something must have stuck, as I really like the way the bunny turned out.  I am going to get Emsy to give this card to my sister.  I do hope Jules likes purple, just like Emsy does ;).

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxo

Bear, Penguin & Reindeer in Blue

Hi Lovelies,

Can you believe it I'm making cards again :-D.  This card came out exactly how I imagined it would.  Not only that, but I have made another two cards since this one.  The only good thing about Mr Mojo dissapearing is that when he comes back, all is right in the world & things just seem to flow & turn out perfectly. 

This card is for two challenges Try Stamping on a Tuesday & Jingle Belles.  I actually wanted to use this fabric on Jingle Belles last challenge, but ran out of time.  As soon as I saw the sketch for this weeks TSOT challenge I immediately thougth of doing a Christmas card (not sure why).  This is a very large card it measures 6.5" x 6.5".  I've used Bazzil Dot & normal Bazzil for the base of the card.  The animals are from some fabric that I got at my LSS.  I fussy cut the three animals out, glued them to a small circle of card then added foam adhesive to raise them up.  I then used my nesties to cut out the tag & used foam adhesive on the two layers.  I stamped Merry Christmas in light blue versa cube ink (you can't see it very well sorry) with a Darkroom Door stamp. 

My poor camera is dead  :(.   Which means I am back to scanning my cards into the computer, hence the not so good image.  Even this is problematic at the moment (grrrr), because someone accidently turned the scanner off, the computer is not recognising there is a connection.  Luckily it tells me it is still connected when I go through Piccassa, bloody dopey computer!!!

Well have a great weekend everyone, I hope you enjoy yourselves & happy crafting xoxoxoxo

A few Holiday pics

 Hi everyone,

Here are just a few photos from our trip to W.A.  The top one is of all of us waiting to catch the plane to Perth.

 Em as a Cheetah at the Perth Zoo.

 Emsy fishing off the the jetty at Denham, with some help from uncle Tim.

 The famous Monkey Mia dolphins.

 Emsy, Lantie & Zac got to feed the dolphins a single fish.  Emsy wasn't happy as she wanted to feed the dolphin by herself. 

We went on a Quad bike tour which took about two hours to do. It was so much fun. From closest: Doug, Zac, Aunty Ange, Emsy, me, Lantie & Uncle Tim. Emsy was with me on my bike for most of the tour. But I think the third crash I had was enough for her so she went on her dad's bike after that. I got the nickname "Crash Test Mummy" fromthat expereince. Good thing I'm better at driving cars ;P.

Shark feeding at Ocean Park just outside of Denham.  I think this is a Lemon shark (one of the harmless ones).

 My poor hubby got so burnt he went bright red.  The perils of being a nightshift worker I guess.  Everyone started calling him "Lobster boy" after this. ;P

 This is a Sea snake that swam to shore whilst we where at one of the many beaches around Denham.  We think he was not well, as he kept twisting & standing up.  It's really rare to see these guys on the beach.  We kept our distance though as they are extremely poisonous.

Here is me with my big fish.  It's called a Knobby (snapper I think).  I never go fishing but couldn't pass up an opportunity to do something different.  Doug & I had a friendly rivalry going as we had to share a rod.  I got the bigger fish between the two of us, but we had loads of fun.  I think my niece Lantie actually caught the biggest fish on the day (her dad had to reel it in for her). 

Well I've probably bored you all enough for one day & I have to go get ready.  We are going out for lunch today with my Dad for my sister's b'day (in November).

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxo 

A card at last ;)

Hi Lovelies,

Finally after such a long time I've done it - made a card.  Phew this feels good!  As soon as I saw this sketch from Try Stampin' on Tuesday latest challenge, I knew what I wanted to do.

I have flipped my sketch so it sits horizontally, but other than that have kept it pretty well the same.  I was inspired to use a Bugaboo Digi image (one of my most favourite sites).  The papers are from My Minds Eye's Stella & Rose, thank you so much Alice.  I love them to bits. 

Well as usual chaos is running rampent upstairs so have to go. 

Hugs to you all & happy crafting xoxoxoxoxoxo 

A random post (I guess)

Hi Lovelies,

Well things seem to be settling down a bit around here (yay!).  My sister Julie from W.A. is staying with us at the moment.  Jules flew over for a school reunion & to catch up with her old flatmate Beverley.  Who came up from Brisbane yesterday & stayed the night with us all.  Which was great for Julie, they spent most of yesterday out & about.  Today Jules & Beverley went to Sea World on the Gold Coast.  Which is about two hours south of here.  They seem to be having a great time of it.  To me it's really strange we went to Sharks Bay to see dolphins, sharks & other amazing sea life & my sis flies over here to do nearly exactly the same.  Life is certainly strange some times ;P.     

Our camera is all worn out & isn't playing nice at the moment :(.  It was working fine up until I took the memory card out to print all the photos at Big W.  Since then it's been tempremental, so I'm hoping that after the battery is charged I can at least get some photos uploaded from the memory stick.  If not I might have to borrow a friends/family computer to upload them so I can share some with you all.  Our memory card slots are the decorative kind on our computer.  They look good but don't do anything...........just a lot frustrating.  I promise not to bore you with all 490 odd photos.  I am now thinking this is why our camera decided to go on strike, it's tired & needs a holiday - from us *tee hee*.

Well Lils just got banished upstairs with her sister so I could finish this post really quickly.  So I have to go now.  I'm hoping that I get some time to post a card I've done for a challenge a little later (like when they've gone to sleep). 

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxo     

Bye, bye holiday

Hi Lovelies,

Well my WA holiday offically ended today/tonight.  We got home just after 6pm (thanks for the lift Dad) & the girls are sound asleep upstairs in their own beds.  I am hoping they have a good night's sleep as tomorrow will be busy, busy around here.  I have to pick up my sister (from WA) in the morning, do the grocery shopping (or we will all starve) & finish the mountain of washing that I have just started (sigh).

As for our holiday I will hopefully do a post on it in the next few days.  But just to let you all know it was FANTASTIC!!!!  We all had a wonderful time, with family & seeing some of Western Australia's fantastic sights.  Sharks Bay is on our go to again list. 

Well I can hear footsteps upstairs so have to go rouse on Emsy :/
Hugs to you all xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Um...........remember me?

Hi Lovelies,

I thought I would quickly pop in to say Hello & that I miss you all terribly.  I occassionally get a chance to pop by & see what you are all up to.  Just not enough to write anything - Lilly is a mover & shaker, which means the play pen is good for about ten minutes before she wants out in a big way. 

I'm slowly getting my act together for our "big" trip.  It's been a few years (three to be exact) since we've had a family holiday together & one that was more than a few hours from home.  One week this coming Sunday we will be flying to the other side of Australia - a lovely six hour flight with a baby & a five year old.  I feel for the other passengers I really do.  On top of this Lill's & I have "sinus" issues at the moment so antibiotics have been prescribed by our GP.  I so hope (& pray) that they clear the both of us up before the flight.  Especially for Lilly, as she is also cutting molars at the moment.  I'm planning on having a few bottles of yummy milk for her during take off/landing.  Hopefully that will help with her ears.

I've also started doing some sewing again thanks to my Printerest page thingy.  I've made a portable highchair (wonderful idea) & an art tote.  I must admit that I did add a few changes to the highchair.  The art tote I made from scratch using an internet picture as a guide.  I customised it for Emsy, by adding a pocket for six Rascal books, another pocket for her Gameboy & twelve crayon slots as well as a large pocket for colouring in books.  I have yet to make her a felt playmat for some small animals/dinosaurs.  I'm hoping that these will be enough to keep her happy for the two & a half weeks we are away.  I am pretty sure that between the cousins, zoo & Monkey Mia that Emsy will have a great time.  

Well I'm off to try to make something for my RAK partner :-/ let's hope the mojo is wanting a work out.  Doug has taken the girls out for the arvo, so this will probably be my last chance.  Wish me luck.

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Father's Day is nearly here (yikes!)

Hi Lovelies,

I had forgotten all about Fathers Day, until I saw an ad (sometimes they are good for somthing) for a sale for Fathers Day.  Which reminded me that I don't have any cards done.  So here is my first one.  I am using this sketch from CPS.  I used Kaisercraft's Script pp from their Timeless collection for my background, with a bit of chocolate bazzil for contrast.  I then stamped the image from Hero Arts' CL 335 as well as the sentiment.  I used Antique Linen Distress Ink on the edges of the white paper & coloured the BBQ in with Prisma colour pencils & some baby oil (for a smoother look). 

Thanks for stopping by today & happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxo

You hoo

Hi Lovelies,

This card is for Try Stampin' On Tuesday's latest challenge here.  A rather tricky little sketch that reminded me of a tree (christmas tree to be exact), not really sure why?  Any ways I thought I would stick with the tree theme & "attempt" to do another one layer card (so not my strong point).  Well I almost got it right.  Then I didn't, I added the owl afterwards.  I thought just for something different I would have him hanging around upside down.  Not sure why, must have been in a really silly mood or something.  Am now thinking I shouldn't have done it ;P

I am also going to "brag" just a little - I made the top 3 for last week's sketch.  I must admit I was so chuffed.  I know bragging isn't becomming, but it was a great pick-me-up.

Have a wonderful weekend every one & happy crafting xoxoxoxoxo 

Linda, we are thinking of you always.

Hi Lovelies,

If you are a member of the Hero Arts flickr group, you will probably know of this thread.  The very lovely & talented Charlene is organising a card drive for Linda aka Oz.  Who at the moment is battling cancer (you go girl!).  Linda is one of those special people who lights up a room (yes even a virtual room) when she is there.  Linda is always full of fun, laughter & happiness, which makes the fact that she has cancer even suckier* than normal.

I made a card & a "book" for Linda, using Bugaboo Digi images. With the card I wanted to give Linda a giggle or at least a reason to smile. I scanned them both into the computer.  Unfortunately for some reason the card is looking washed out. I used one of my favourite b/g stamps Antique Brocade (Hero Arts) & versamark ink.  But you can barely make it out. I then used Spun Sugar Distress ink over the main panel with Worn Lipstick on the edges. I then coloured the top with my Copics, cut out the image & added pop dots to the back of it for some dimension. I used my Copics to colour the edge of the sentiment after cutting it out with my nesties/cuttlebug.

I also coloured the blue/green flower with my copics to get it to match. 

The book I did because I know how much she loves anything Halloween or Wizard of Oz.  I was originally going to make another card for Linda with the image/sentiment.  Only problem was it would have been a huge card (if you can call that a problem).  Then I had a stroke of sumtin'..................why not use my zutter ;).  So this simple little book was born.  Inside all the pages are blank, which I think will make it suitable for just about anything.  I thought maybe it could sit by her phone for messages or she could doodle in it or whatever.

Have a wonderful week everyone & happy crafting xoxoxoxoxoxo
* I do know that Suckier isn't really a word, but it so fitted don't you think?

Mr Mojo & a challenge

Hi Lovelies,

I guess Mr Mojo is comming back :D. 

I made this particular card for this sketch challenge on Try Stampin' on Tuesday.  I found on my (extremely messy) craft desk a digi stamp that I had cut out with my nesties & thought of this challenge.  All I had to do was colour it in with my Copics & mount it on a card.  As usual I was using leftover papers for the card.  I've nearly used up all of the apple paper now. 

I decided to make this card for one of Em's Pre-prep teachers (for end of year) as part of a thank you.

Have a great weekend & happy crafting everyone :D xoxoxoxoxo
PS You know when you've been in a crafting drought when you find a card still sitting in your scanner from a month or so ago ;P xoxoxoxo

It's been a while.............

Hi Lovelies,

(This is a non crafty post :{)

I know I have been AWOL for simply ages now.  Life has a funny habit of getting in the way some times, do you know what I mean?  Any way I thought I had better pop in & explain myself. 

The last two weeks of July & first half of August has been taken up with Birthdays.  Most of the kids in our Mothers' group where born around this time.  So I've been driving Miss Em around to loads of different parties at various places for about the last four weeks.  We had our last party yesterday & I'm offically worn out lol. 

This also included Em's & James's party.  This was the first time that I had ever done a birthday party for Em (she turned five).  I figure one every four - five years will be enough (hopefully)!  The party was a huge hit (thank goodness) but so much work.  I was lucky enough that Susan (James's mum) agreed to have a combined party.  We had a Pirate & Mermaid party.  Because our house doesn't have a backyard or fences, we held the party at a park.  Best move ever! The day was perfect & because we had about 25 kids (I am a sucker for punishment) come along, we had enough room for everyone. 

On top of this we've just had all the carpets, rugs & pest control done.  So that meant everything that was upstairs had to be moved downstairs (no carpets there).  That was done last Wednesday & we are still moving stuff back.  I'm doing a cull as I go.  It seems to be taking forever as I have to do things around people's sleeping.  Sometimes I wish Doug worked days, I really do ;). 

So you can probably guess not much crafting has been done around here.  I think I made about 3 cards (all for b'day kids) & about 10 mermaid tails for the party.  I'm officially "Mojoed" out now.  I don't have one ounce of mojo left in me at the moment.  I've even lent some of my new stamps & nesties to Helen.  One stamp had yet to see ink!  I figure she should get some enjoyment out of them, since I wont. 

I'm going to take a break for awhile.  I am hoping to pop by your blogs, semi regularly, but you probably wont see much happening here on this blog.  I want to get my house sorted, cleaned & basically enjoy some time with the kids/hubby.  Then start preparing for our holiday to WA, in October (yikes it's only six weeks away!).  I still don't know what to do about the cat, I'm thinking she may have to go to a cattery just so we know where she is.

Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxoxo     

Christmas "leftovers" - yummy!

Hi everyone,

I wont blame you if you have given up on me.  Things have been rather chaotic of late around here.  So with that said I am so pleased that I have managed to do these two cards for a challenge & guess what I even managed to do it before the deadline - woot woot! :) (can you tell I haven't had a lot of sleep).  Here are my cards.

Both of these cards are made up of leftover papers & rubbons & one lonely bit of red/black ribbon.  I added some extra interest to the penguin card by stamping on the c/s with distress inks & two different HA stamps (which due to my lack of camera skills you can't see).  The red oval I was originally going to throw out because I thought I couldn't use it for anything.  The Pointsetta card is all scraps & I added interest to the bottom of the card by running it through my trusty cuttlebug with the Swiss Dot folder after applying the rubbon. 

Thanks for stopping by & Have a great week & happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxo

Deborah's CCC

Hi everyone,

I have to be quick - Lils' doesn't want to be in the play-pen (darn kid).  Here is my card for the current Lily Pad CCC.  I have done a tutorial here on a simular card. 

Believe it or not this card will fold down flat :D.  I decided to colour the froggy blue to match the Lily pad frog & the bikini is one of the themes.  So I downloaded a freebie clip art Bikini for my washing line.  Well I'd better free the beast err........baby.  Have a great week & happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxo

Lounge v Lillybug

And the winnner is...........................................................

Yup the lounge won this round.  Since I took this photo (yesterday) Lilly has developed a black eye :{.  Now you may remember this blog entry about Emsy's black eye.  So now both our girls have had them.  As did I when I was a young un'.  Not sure if this is a family curse or what ;P.  Well maybe not a curse but it's sure is a very strange coincident don't you think? 

Well I'm off to re-do another card :D for an example for the DCD* challenge I'm hosting this month here.  Have a great week ahead every one xoxoxoxoxoxo

*DCD - Die Cut Divas

Lily Pad - I'm a member & prize give away :D

“I became a Member of Lily Pad Cards today! Go become a member for a chance to win a collection of Hero Arts stamps. Contest closes at 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, July 15!”  Seriously who wouldn't want to win some goodies & be a part of one of the best blogs around!  I highly recomend that you do (if you haven't already) :D.

Have a great day & Happy crafting every one xoxoxoxoxo 

Try stampin' on a Tuesday, Jingle Belles

Hi there,

I am back with my second post for today :D. 

I have again combined two challenges for this card/tag.  I thought I'd enter Try Stampin' on Tuesday & one of my favourite challenge spots Jingle Belles.   These two are made up of more scraps.  I coloured the Tree brads in with one of my green Copics & I used a Hero Arts stamp on the tag.  The Santa images are from a digi prize I won ages ago.  Have a great week & happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxo

CPS & CAS-ual Fridays

Hi there,

Well I have some rare 'me time' today so I have made this card very quickly (about 5 minutes) for two challenges this time. 

I am using this sketch from CPS-Card sketches.  I am also using this challenge from CAS-ual Fridays.  I made the background paper with Rangers Perfect Pearls Mist in Forever Blue on watercolour paper.  I then swiped the edges with Faded Jeans Distress ink.  The bird cage is a Hero Arts stamp.   The "table" is coloured with distress inks (I can't remember which ones) on water colour paper & cut with a Martha Stewart punch.  I used Copics Y35 & YR63 on the flower in the birdcage.

Thanks for stopping by & Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxo

Recycle, Re-purpose and Re-use

Hi everyone,

Well over on the DCD* flickrgroup & blog the theme for this month is Recycle, Re-purpose & re-use.  So I finally have gotten a chance to do something for the challenge & this is what I came up with.

 This is the "before" a sticker sheet backing & two sticker flowers.

This is the "after".  The sticker sheet backing is the circle.  My re-purpose is the music sheet paper.  As for my re-use it's the flowers, I've had them sitting around for like ever!  With the challenge you don't have to do all three, but I like to see what I can do. 

I think this card looks nicer irl than what it does here.  My scanner doesn't seem to like lumpy things ;P so thats why the picture is pretty average.  Just a quick note other than the stamped bird image & sentiment I haven't used any inks at all on this card.  I must be feeling sick. 

Have a great week every one & happy crafting xoxoxoxoxo  

One matching envelope

Hi there,

Well I am back & am on a bit of a creative roll.  Gotta love that.  Today I am going to share an envelope that I've just finished about 5 minutes ago.  It is for my uncle's card (last blog entry).  I found this tutorial on how to make envelopes for your cards, love that it's so easy :D.  Here is my envelope:

It's hard to see on this picture but I basically used this technique by Shari Carrol.  I really loved doing this sort of thing.  I think the reason why is because you just never know how it will turn out in the end.  I have also used versamark ink & canvas stripe on the red Bazzil just to give it some interest.  Unfortunately the cling fell off the block as I was positioning it so the bottom half is a little skew-if.  I also intentionally made the words crooked.  I broke out of my comfort zone to do this.  I just went for it & tried not to think that part through.  Yeah, yeah me think I know ;P. 

Also I've discovered why my Lillybug is so cranky & upset :(, poor baby has a virus & her little bottom is redder than that piece of bazzil.  As well as being blistered.  I took her to the dr's today because of it.  We just thought the poor little mite was teething & that's why her tummy was so upset.  Some days it's hard to know what's what in the world of babies :{. 

Well I hope that you all are having a wonderful weekend in your part of the world & happy crafting xoxoxoxoxo 

Happy Birthday Uncle Gil

Hi there,

Bet you thought I fell of the face of the planet? ;P.  Well not quite, I've just been super busy doing mum stuff.  Lately the days have all been blurring into one, not sure what is going on there?

Well enough dribble, here is a card that I have managed to make today (in between looking after cranky bum Lils') for my uncle who will be 70 this Sunday.  So of course we are all going to get together & celecbrate :D.

I decided to make an easel card, just because I haven't made one for awhile.  I chose this paper, purely because I thought it was "blokey" (manly).  I also decided to make this a larger card it's nearly 6"x6".  I also broke out my embossing powders, hadn't used them in simply forever!

Here is a close up of the embossed areas.  I fussy cut the leaf from the paper & decided to make it a focal point on the card.  Plus the stem needed "stiffening" so it wouldn't tear off.  Embossing powders seemed the way to go.  I did a few layers on the leaf & about 5 layers of embossing powder on the 70.  Just so it looks better (to me).

Thanks for stopping by & have a great weekend & happy crafting xoxoxoxo

Ok what would you do?

Layered Thinking
Originally uploaded by pajalu (Paula)
Hi everyone,

I was just over at my flickrstream. When I was informed by a wonderful friend that one of my cards had been used by someone else.

Now I've never had this happen to me before & it's not like the person can claim the card as theirs as I have my name on the picture & it's visible when you view the card on their site. So what do you do? I emailed the person & said the following:

Dear Sir/madam,

I am the maker of this card that you have on your site here: (I've removed the link here, not sure on the legalities).
I was made aware of this today by one of my Blogging friends. I am a little taken back that you have used my card without asking me. I know my name is on the picture, but still I would have liked to have been asked first. I don't have an issue with you using my card at all, but if you had of taken the time to email me that would have been nice.

I am awestruck that you think my card is worthy to be on your site, but next time please ask first. :D

Yours sincerely
Paula (Pajalu)

So what do you think?  Am I being to "prissy" (couldn't think of the right word) about this?  Or do you think I should have said/did something else.  Silly thing is, if the person had of asked me I would have been so happy & said yes.  I'd also probably would have done a blog entry about it & given them some more exposure (do you know what I mean?).

Well that's it for me today - Happy crafting everyone xoxoxoxoxoxo

Almost a one layer card

Hi,

Today I have an almost one layer card to share with you.  I was inspired by Alice to try her wonderful cloud backgrounds.  Alice has done a tutorial on it here.  I've long been an admirer of her clouds & was surprised at how easy it is to make them.  Mind you about halfway through layering my clouds I remembered that I do have a plastic template of clouds (& sea) so will give that a go next time.  I used this wonderful sketch from Card Patterns.  I am delighted with how this card turned out.  I've basically used Distress inks to "colour" the c/s into pp.  I did stamp the butterfly seperately & attached it to the card after colouring it in with copics.  I also changed the colour of the lace with ink & water in a mini mister to suit the card. 

Thanks for stopping by & have a great week :D - Happy crafting everyone xoxoxo

Supplies:
Distress Inks: Tumbled Glass, Broken China, Stormy Sky, Bundled Sage, Shabby Shutters,
Versafine Inks: Sepia, Onyx Black,
Momento Ink: Tuxedo Black
Vivid Ink: Olive (for the lace)
Versamark Pen
Hero Arts Stamps: Cl 151 (Share Laughter), Cl 309 (Whoo loves you), Cl 342 (Everyday sayings) CG 196 (Canvas Stripes)
Copics: Y35, Y38, YR04, YR 68
Cuttlebug
Nestibilities: Tags
Embossing Powder: Red Blush (unknown brand)
Heart button (unknown brand)
Scrappers floss: Neutral