Busy Busy Busy!

I have moved!

2008-02-10T16:46:00.000+11:00

After thinking long and hard, I have decided to abandon this blog, and set up another one purley for my new site Craft and Scrap. The new blog will only be for matters related to Craft and Scrap, only.

Thank you to those who visit Scrap Yourself Silly. Now I hope to see you at Craft and Scrap!

The Craft and Scrap web site is here.
The Craft and Scrap blog is here.

Finding...

2008-01-09T16:13:00.000+11:00

Nemo and a scrap space!

This here is a little mini book thing I made for our neighbours who had a bub 12 weeks ago... I finally got 'round to making and giving it to them just before Christmas! The love suba-diving and are "into" Nemo for their nursery, so I made this. Love the brightness, not sure about the theme, :P.

And, finally, I have my very own piece of the world - my own place to scrap (and, I dont have to put things away if I dont wanna).

Yay!

Eat. Pray. Love.

2008-01-05T21:39:00.000+11:00

So, as I mentioned yesterday, I have completed my little book of "happy", inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert and her journey to self discovery which she published in her book named Eat. Pray. Love. Basically, the idea behind the book is to recall some thing that made me happy during that day, no matter how small or seemingly trivial. I remember one of her examples when interviewed by Oprah was the way the sun was shining on her way out to collect the mail.

So, the book I got was from Big W. I just covered the back with felt, and popped a flower thing on the front and that's basically it. Not too plain to be boring, but fun enough to be a little self inspiring. I'll probably put a little "how to" on Craft and Scrap.

So, in my endeavour to get more organised this year, and since completing my book of happy, I realised that I have a few really important things that I refer to often throughout the day. I discovered this old folder that belonged to my dad, and tried to liven it up a little, so I could keep my "important daily stuff" in it. Things like my book of happy, daily diary (appointments and to do's), a notepad for jotting of ideas and groceries etc and a check list thingy of housekeeping etc. So now I can zip it all up and they're all in the one place. Just realised I forgot to clean the folder before I took a pic! :)

My bro sent me a link for a donut recipe, and I got a bit bored and made them this arvo. I made the dough, let it rise, and then after dinner John cut out the donuts and I cooked and glazed them! For our first attempt, and with no actual donut cutter, I'm really pleased with them! We had (still have) so many donuts that I gave some away to the neighbours!

So now I'm off to clean the kitchen!

Lazy Days

2008-01-04T23:05:00.000+11:00

Ive been really lazy over the last week, only doing the necessities of cleaning and housework. Have been fiddling with websites, watching the kids in the pool, and stacks of reading. Tonight I even scrapped a little - I made a book to journal in which Ive called "my book of happy". It was inspired by a lady I saw on Oprah last year (must find name). Will hopefully post pic here tomorrow.

Ah summer and school hols!

Scary!

2007-12-16T13:20:00.000+11:00

Last night, we were all in the lounge room, watching tele' - or rather the TV was on but with all of us in there at once you can never really "watch" - when suddenly Kane starts screaming "my eye! my eye! there's a sticker in my eye!" at first I thought he was saying "finger" or "stinger" but finally he confirmed "sticker". I was asking "where's a sticker? You were fine a second ago! You haven't been anywhere to get a sticker!" Meanwhile, he's in hysterics! I managed to open his eye, and there it was! Something white, about 5mm white! OMG! So John and I rushed him off to the bathroom to try and get it out with a dampened tissue or cotton tip, but I suddenly remembered my first aid training and thought "no! flush out with water!" so john got him in the shower and it was out in seconds! I was so scared that he'd scratched his eye, or blinded himself! We asked him how it got there, and he said he picked it up off the carpet, and was trying to stick it on his forehead, but it fell in his eye! Silly boofer!

Lead up to Christmas

2007-12-15T22:22:00.000+11:00

J was asked by her former teacher is she would please give a little speech at this year's year 6 formal and talk a bit about what year 7 is like. She received a formal invite, and so she attended that on Thursday night. She received a cute teddy with some choccies as a thank you. Heres a pic of what she looked like.

Also on Thursday night, P had her Guides Christmas party and she dressed a bit Christmasy and looked cute... we went to take photos but couldn't find the camera!

Went looking at Christmas lights last night, and there were a couple of outstanding displays, but from the streets that were recommended in the paper, we were very disappointed!

I am back at Woolies a couple of nights a week. Long story, but lets just say that it's funny how things work out. Ive only worked once, but theres a couple of new girls and they're lovely.

Had my follow up mammogram and ultrasound (I had a intra duct papilloma (dilated milk duct) removed from my right boob last year) on both boobs yesterday, and the results came back totally clear!

Have sorted out the linen press, and managed to contain all my craft items to the one cupboard! Now I just need to find some more energy at 10 oclock at night so I can actually get creative! Reading seems to be my thing again at the moment but thats probably because Im too tired to do much else...

Two weeks ago we all went into Darling Harbour and watched a little Christmas Concert that they held, starring Georgie Parker and David Campbell. Bob the Builder, and Alvin and the Chipmunks also made an appearance. It was a nice night. Afterwards we walked around for a bit and splurged on the kids - we bought 30 cent icecream cones from Maccas, and they played on the playground! They LOVED it!

When we got home, and everyone else had gone inside the house, there was just Jo left to get... he was asleep, but as I picked him up and went to hoist him up a bit on my shoulder, my jean leg got caught on the towbar and I lost my balance and fell back. I couldnt put my hands out to save me since i was holding Jo, but I heard and felt my head bang on the driveway! I think I was "out" for a couple of seconds, but the first thing I realised was that Jo was crying, but I think it was just the shock of how he was woken up. He wasnt hurt. The next thing I noticed was the sound in my head, and the pins and needles feeling that went down to the tips of my fingers. I was aware enough to say to P (who had come back out to see if I needed a hand with anything) "P, Ive just hit my head. You need to get Jo inside, and get Daddy out here. NOW!"

I felt a bit dizzy, but I was more scared than anything of something happening later, like swelling. After everyone was settled, I stayed up for as long as I could (about 40 minutes) and then went to sleep. Every time I bent over or reached up I felt nauseous, and tired. This was for 2 days. If it had of gone on any longer, I would've seen the doctor. But I wonder now if I still feel tired because of this. Maybe I just need more iron?

And the week before that, P was was in the School Spectacular at the Sydney Entertainment Centre. I went on the Saturday night to watch her (and to help out with S as far as driving her everywhere). What a fab fab show! And how talented are those kids??? All the singers were also brilliant! I was actually crying I was so moved by them, especially the younger ones. I was so proud of P too! She was a little mauve dinosaur! The full length show will be shown on ABC on the 19th December. J was also in the School Spec 2 years ago!

So, Im off now to read a bit of Maeve Binchy's Quentin. Not sure if Ive read anything of hers before...

Kindy Award

2007-12-12T16:15:00.000+11:00

My kindy girl got an award at school yesterday... big event - was held at the high school in their auditorium. The award was for "enthusiasm in learning and striving to do her best". She was of course very chuffed. This pic isn't too good... we ain't go no fancy camera with zoom baby - she is the one 7th from the left. What about that cute guy 2nd from the left? Every "awwwwww"'d when he came out. The girl with blonde hair 5th from the left stayed in the same position with a smile glued to her face the whole time they were on stage! :)

Today John has been home, and we've been working on some work/interests of his. I need to create another web site - for him!

Have also tried to get motivated for repacking some cupboards. We have 2 huge linen presses (thank goodness! but still never enough room) and a newish cupboard that was created when we were building Johns dads room. Not only was linen and manchester contained in these cupboards, but also some left over novels, photo boxes, scrapbook albums, and of course everything I own pertaining to scrappin! So now I am trying to best use the space. :P I don't have my own space anywhere in the house, and now scrap on the dining table (although its been more than 2 months!), so getting everything in and out is actually a drama since the cupboards are down a hallway.

Am also keen to start writing again, thanks to my girlfriend Raelene. After our night out in the city, she was motivated to re-persue our childhood dream of writing... and on the weekend, she let me read her completed chapter one (shes actually written 3 chapters now)! Woohoo! I have research some stuff, and have written down a bit of a synopsis for my book, so at least I've started! *wink*

So much to do, so little time.

I have returned!

2007-12-10T22:53:00.000+11:00

Although I didnt really go anywhere!

So much happening, has happened, to happen - and on it goes!

Have decided to remain here with Blogger and with the same template. For now anyway.

Will update on my life another time, but in the meantime, check out Craft and Scrap here, and checkout some cool competitions we have going right now!

Time for a change?

2007-11-19T13:53:00.000+11:00

Everyone else is doing it, so being the late follower that I always am, I might do it to!

Oh! Do what?

Change my blog. Thats all.

Probably still Blogger though ('cause I dont wanna spend money for something like this! LOL!) but under my new biz name and stuff.

And maybe, I''ll even update the new one more regularly!

Til later...

B.W.O

2007-11-08T23:28:00.000+11:00

Yep, Im one of those slack bloggers.

But! Thanks to Roz James, I saw a cool thing on her blog called Blogging Without Obligation! See the new little black and white logo thingy to the left?

AhhhhhhhhhH! That feels so much better!

What is a Tyler Thing?

2007-10-17T19:28:00.001+10:00

Just a little bit earlier tonight, my 5 yo daughter started talking about Tasmanian Tigers, and how they became extinct. She said her friend Madeline said they all had their heads chopped and that's how they became extinct. I said I didn't think that that was why... someone wouldn't have gone around and just chopped off their heads because they didn't like them! She said how they were also called Tyler Sing's, not just Tasmanian Tigers. Tyler Sing? Whats that? I thought she was saying "sing" instead of "thing", so that translated to Tyler Thing. What is a Tyler Thing? I asked her. She said her teacher called the Tasmanian Tiger that too. A Tyler Thing? Why would anyone call it that? There must be a different name. Something else instead of "Thing". My daughter was adamant. And she was also adamant that their heads were chopped off. "How do you know?" I asked her. "Because Madeline looked it up on the 'net". "Alright," I said, "we'll look it up too".

And what do you know? The scientific name for Tasmanian Tiger is "Thylacine" (pronounced Tyler-seen"). :-)

And their heads probably were cut off too - through hunting, although that's not how they became extinct!

Lesson: never argue with a know-it-all 5 year old.

How excitement!

2007-10-17T10:53:00.001+10:00

I just got my copy of Adobe Photoshop 7!! I am so excited! But lost... I have NO IDEA how to use it! Google here I come!

Slacker

2007-10-16T07:54:00.000+10:00

Sooo busy lately! So very quick update for now!

Congrats to our neighbours who have had their first bub, a daughter named Ava, and 2 days later our good friends Gary and Kathryn had their 3rd bubby, a son named James!!

Ive decided to start up a craft business again with support from John, and will be taking a slightly different approach. Im not joking when I say that everyday I get at least one phone call for my old business, for people either looking for a particular item, but mostly for classes. I ummed and ahhed for a bit because I have now made connections with other people regarding scrapping, and I dont want to tread on anyones toes or anything, but I think the approach I have taken is fairly safe, so it wont be taken the wrong way. I didnt even know whether it was a good idea to mention anything here on my blog, but, hey, I havent stolen any ideas so why not? Does that make sense? Perhaps not. Anyway, we will be having classes in different formats, as well as the usual forum and gallery, and also gift / birthday / corporate packs. Im quite excited and cant wait to start on some new projects to start for classes. If you live nearby (Hills District, Sydney), and either want to check out the classes or have some of your own ideas to share, check out the new site.

The link is here.

Um, what else? Congrats to Crissy also who had a baby back in August - I dont think I mentioned anything on here about that before so thought I should! Gorgeous girl Gabriella! And congrats to Mel who I just read is prenant too! Im a bit behind on my blog reading obviously!

Our back verandah is almost finished - just the wire bits to go in between the posts. We had dinner out on the deck the other night with my FIL, and I tell you, it looks like a resort in the evenings! John has done an amazing job with the lighting and everything looks gorgeous!

We took a trip up to the Entrance a few weeks back, and stopped in at my gf new house on the way back. Such a big house! 5 minute walk to beach. And we have our night out in the city in a couple of weeks and we're soooo looking forward to it!

My dad had his 60th birthday party, and that was a great night. Dad cried when he opened my card and people oohed and ahhed over it. It was the one I made at LSBS. I got a bit drunk, but I still remember everything... including when I tripped over the low set table leg as I was doing the conga, and that was the end of the conga altogether! lol! We all staryed in the hotel afterwards, which was a nice treat, and met dad for breakky the next morning. Very nice. On the Sunday was the local fair, and I was hoping to meet Pinkie from LSBS, but never found her!

Talking of LSBS, very sad that I didnt get to do the CC on the weekend just past... we had a bit of family time instead so that was nice.

Well, Im gabbing away, and I promised myself I wouldnt be late leaving the house this morning, so best be off!

Til next time!

Busy few days!

2007-09-25T21:34:00.000+10:00

to say the least!

Some dot points of the last few days (in no particular order) until I can be bothered to elaborate some other 60 seconds:

My Dads' 60th birthday party Saturday night
Me tripping over the table while doing the Conga. And then the Conga promptly finishing.
Crestwood Fair (which was made so cute at the end of the day by my 5yo dd boyfriend coming to sit beside her to watch the fireworks)
Going to court to support my step-dad in his claim against the council deciding his dog is dangerous
John and I coming to an agreement / decision on a biz idea for me
Waiting for Kathryn to have her bub
My girlfriend Rae organising a hotel for our getaway in a few weeks.
Kane doing brilliantly in speech therapy.
Waiting for my copy of PhotoShop
Going to the library for story time with Josh, only to have him keep saying "Elmo" while pointing to a DVD the whole time (well, nearly whole time until I took him away)
Borrowing 2 books - PhotoShop for Dummies and Creating Web pages for Dummies (among other books)
Winning a gift voucher from LSBS for my LO with the pockets! Cool!

Now, gonna watch All Saints!

My creations!

2007-09-19T11:21:00.000+10:00

Well, had a very busy creative weekend! Very happy with the end results! I only got them finished in time as both Blumar's and LSBS had extended times to finish!

For LSBS:

1. Challenge: Card with something hidden. See that photo of the bub? Thats a spinning thing, so you turn it and it shows a different pic, or some words.

2. Challenge: LO using chipboard that is covered using at least 2 techniques. I covered the swirly chipboard in pp and Modpodge, painted the alphas, and shooshed the journalling tag.

3. Challenge: LO of someone dressed up. So this is Kane in an outfit I whipped up for him for preschool, the day before a Superhero Day.

4. Challenge: Create a card or LO using the handmade envelopes. John and I minutes after Joshy was born.

For Blumar's:

Challenge: Use sketch to make Christmas card.

Challenge: Use sketch to create birthday theme LO, including ribbon and eyelets.

!

Tagged!

2007-09-19T11:01:00.000+10:00

By Mish!

Here’s how it works:
1. Players must list one fact, word, or tidbit that is somehow relevant to their life for each letter of their first or middle name.
2. When you are tagged you need to write your own post containing your first or middle name game facts, word, or tidbit.
3. At the end of your post choose one person for each letter of your name to tag.
4. Don’t forget to leave a comment telling them that they have been tagged, and to read your blog.
5. If I’ve tagged YOU (see below), please join in on the fun!

W - Wonering, always wondering...
E - Eeeek!
N - Nice (except for "Y" (see below :P)
D - Dreamer
Y - Yells too much at her kids and is trying to stop!

I tag

Carlie (this might get her butt into gear to actually blog!)
Crafty Nanna (Blumar's)
Shawnita
Tianne and
Sam (again, poor girl... she just did one! But this one is different! LOL!)

LSBS CC Weekend!

2007-09-13T22:25:00.000+10:00

Little Scrapbook Shop is having their cybercrop this weekend too! (Gee, I'm gonna busy, huh!).

And they have a great incentive for all the newbies to come along and join in! You could win a prize too for simply registering and doing a challenge in the CC!

I joined in on the last CC there and it was loads of fun, so am looking forward to this one too!

Dont think I mentioned that I was rewarded the "LSBS encouragement award" for the last cc.

I cant figure out how to put it on here so it "blinks". :(

Anyway, thats it for me for now...

Oh, and by the way, I quit my job on Sunday night!

:)

Blumars Class and DT Search

2007-09-12T21:12:00.000+10:00

I am doing a class this Saturday at 8.30pm Sydney time at Blumar's.

Its on card holders - you know when you have a stack of cards for say, a Christening, or a 1st birthday? I used to just bundle mine up, put an lacky band around it, and pop in the memorabilia box. These card holders are sooooooo easy to make, and a nicer way to sore the cards!

It can be adapted for lots of uses, including an art folder I made for my Creative Miss y, Kayla.

You will need to register first, and the items required are already up. And dont worry if you cant make it on Saturday night, the class notes will be up for a few weeks.

Blumar's is also on the lookout for new Design Team members, both long term and guest positions. So have a look around, and send the lovely Maria your details.

What the font?

2007-09-03T22:38:00.000+10:00

What Font Are You? (Standard Fonts)

Arial - You're pretty normal. That's certainly not a bad thing, as a lot of people like you.
Take this quiz!

Quizilla |
Join

| Make A Quiz | More Quizzes | Grab Code

Cool avatar

2007-08-30T14:40:00.001+10:00

August LO

2007-08-24T21:46:00.000+10:00

from LSBS, using one of the August monthly kits. Everything in the pack was used, and I only added Lil Davis chipboard stars, and Bella alpha! It's a cool kit for only $10, and heaps left over to do at least 2 more LO's! The journalling reads: Josh was quiet, and when I came back in to the kitchen, I knew why - because the writing was on the wall". Love his expression; it's like "Wha? You mean Im not supposed to write here?"

Party and tins

2007-08-20T21:12:00.000+10:00

Well, Josh's 2nd birthday party was a tad washed out! Normally we have parties out the back, that extend out to the pool and deck, but there was no choice but to keep everyone inside and extend into the new carpeted area of the house! It was kinda good in a way, because everyone got to chat and there was no grass or dirt being tracked in and out of the house.

This is Josh (on my lap) blowing out his candles.

Also, here are the 2 tins I did for my girlfriends recently. Quite like them! They are sooooo easy to make, and they were intrigued by what was in the tin previously, and how I kept it closed! :)

Very tired, so that's it from me tonight.

Mixed emotions

2007-08-17T22:31:00.001+10:00

Well, my baby is officially no longer a baby! Yesterday my Jojo turned 2, and am feeling expectantly emotional about this because it signifies the end of this phase of my life. I know I do not want another baby, and I know there definantly will not be any more babies for me. I'm sitting here trying to find the words to describe exactly what I mean, but its actually quite hard...

Anyway, we started his day like we do for all the kids whenever there's a birthday by decorating their room with balloons, streamers and banners, and placing their presents beside their bed ready for them to wake up. Josh did something out of character, and got up in the wee hours and came into our bed to sleep, and we let him, and gave him a birthday kiss. We took him back to his room when the rest of the family woke up, and did the pressy and photo thing.

The rest of the day was pretty uneventful... just went to the opening of a new homemaker centre, and Josh had Blues Clues painted on his face, and got balloons. Later, Kane Josh and I bought some hot chippies, and sat in the park across from the school, until the bell went.

Later we went for dinner at a kid friendly restaurant at Penrith - they have a mini cinema, a computer games room, and even a girl who painted faces. The meals were yum, and I took a long a choccy cake with a paw print iced on it, and the staff of the restaurant came out carrying the lit candles on the cake singing. :)

Then I had to work, from 11 til 2, which extended to 3am, so am quite tired tonight! But!! There is so much to do! Most of the house stuff and party stuff can be done tomorrow - its the scrapping I'm talking about! LSBS has a sorta cc on - you need to go there and check out what its all about! Some cool challenges for sure! And Blumars has their weekend workshop also! Ive also got 2 candy tins I am making that I saw on Stephs blog, and they need to ready Sunday. Almost done. Plus I have 4 CJ's sitting here ready to go, and I am also finishing off some Blues Clues decorations for the party on Sunday (pawprints on the tablecloth, pin the pawprint on Blue, a blue pinata etc)!

But I think I need to catch some sleep... can always stay up tomorrow!

Pay it forward...

2007-08-13T22:45:00.000+10:00

This is a fab idea! I found out about this via Alishia's blog.

Here are the rules:

The first three people to comment here (who would like to be involved in the Pay It Forward Challenge) will receive a handmade gift from me.

All you have to do is keep the fun challenge going by agreeing to create three handmade gifts for three more people...

So, if you would like a gift hand made by me, just be one of the first 3 to pop in a comment!! :) EASY PEASY! And then you post the same thing on your blog (just copy and paste the rules) and keep paying it forward!!!!!

CC weekend

2007-08-13T01:26:00.000+10:00

I had a great time scrapping this weekend for LSBS's CC! (Yes, K, LSBS!).

Challenge 1: LO using the sketch, and travel theme.

Challenge 2: Card using the sketch.

Challenge 3: Travel Journal based on a step by step project. My album (I haven't finished making it yet) is an ongoing journey to find out more about myself. In the front pocket are 52 questions, and each week I will take a q and journal it , along with pics if I can. I'll date it, and pop it in the relevant month. The answered q goes into the envelope at the back of the book, and in a year, I start again. It'll be great to see if and how I change over the years.

Lots of fun, and pleased with my work. Even my OH likes the LO!

This virus has been going through my family, hitting everyone in varying degrees. Yesterday, Jo got into our bed around 7am, and went back to sleep, so once I got up I finished getting ready to go out for the morning with the kids to my bro play soccer, and at 9.45, he and my OH were still both asleep, so I left him there. When we returned around 1pm, my OH said Josh had breakky / lunch, and went back to bed, and he didn't get up til about 5, and then went to bed like normal at 8.30! Poor bubba.

My OH still seems to be really tired, and P has had sore eyes and throat, and a headache all weekend, and just this afternoon, when we returned from Cabarita, J had the same symptoms.

Let me tell ya, I am touching lots of wood, to make sure I stay healthy!! LOL!

To Do

2007-08-09T09:07:00.000+10:00

How cool does this look?

Got this link from Katie and just love it! So many possibilities!

Paper Bag Album

2007-08-08T13:57:00.000+10:00

Did a mini Christmas in July swap at Blumar's and my recipient was Crissy. Had to include a little handmade something, and stuff to the value of $10. I made her a paperbag album for her little bub, about to grace this world with her presence soon (so, GOSH I hope the bub is a girl, and not a boy who crossed his legs at the ultrasound!). I like the album a lot, considering I didnt buy anything other than what was already in my stash!

Miss 5 is home from school today, Joshy is ill, Kane is still complaining about a sore throat and is coughing all the time (John called me at work last night to come home early and then, when Kane wouldnt settle, I drove around at 1.30am for an hour with Kane looking for a Chemist (John wanted me to go to the hospital but he didnt have a temp, and I knew Id be there hours when all that could be visibly seen was a cough, and restlessness). We are slowly getting the house back into some semblance of order. Slooooowwwwwlllllly. Any slower it will be 2010.

What's worse?

2007-08-06T20:27:00.000+10:00

1. A 3yo whiny sick kid

or

2. A 3yo whiny sick kid, sick daddy and an extremely messed up house because of carpets being laid?

I don't think I mentioned that the other day while working on our back verandah, John hit his head quite hard on a plank of wood with 2 nails poking out, so he was feeling rather light headed for the rest of the day, and ill all day yesterday, couped up in bed. We went to the Doctors again today, as Kane's temperature was still in the high 37.0 and we saw a different Dr, who changed his antibiotics, and suggested an over-the-counter medicine to help him sleep a bit better. Poor thing hasn't slept properly since Thursday night... and so it was just coincidental that John felt ill after hitting his head, because what he was probably most likely feeling was the symptoms of tonsillitis himself. His temp was up in the 37.0's too and is also now on antibiotics. There is furniture and toy boxes and crates and STUFF scattered everywhere in the house that has space. Also, my dryer is broken and am very behind in clothes washing / folding / ironing. Last week it was the dishwasher, but John spoke to a service guy on the phone who basically told him what to check for and how to fix it. Cool! $200 left in our pocket. Metaphorically speaking of course.

It WAS the wrong phone number on the invites that I did for my dad's 60th birthday, but I stuck some cardboard, and they look quite cool. Anyhow, here's a little pic of them stacked. The swirly cardstock is from Making Memories, and was $3.50 RRP at least 2 years ago (when I got it). I dont like the c/s, but they look alright for these invites I reckon.

Am having a relatively early night tonight as have to be up with the birds tomorrow sorting more mess so the carpets can go in!

Doh!

2007-08-04T23:18:00.001+10:00

Kaney has been more whingey than normal (and I say that in the nicest way possible :P), and after have a high temp since last night (and Nurofen only bringing it down for a few hours), I took him to the Dr's this arvo, and it seems he has tonsilitis! Poor buddy!

Tonight I have been working on some invites for my dads 60th birthday dinner but have just realised that I think I have the wrong RSVP phone number on there for Liz (my dads wife)!! Ive already printed them out, so if the number is wrong, I'll either have to print out 18 invites again, or do a crafty cardstock strip over that bit and reprint just that section elsewhere! Arrrgh! Lucky I hadnt cut all the peep hole things yet, or stuck the patterned paper on! Will definately have to post a pic once finito!

Not really looking forward to tomorrow - John is working for a little bit in the morning, but will probably be back before Ive even started cooking pancakes. We need to get EVERYTHING out of the 3 kids bedrooms and the bottoms of wardrobes and lines presses, as carpet is being laid Tuesday! :S

Sharing

2007-08-04T09:13:00.000+10:00

Firstly here is a bandaid tin done as part of a swap that I received from Kerry a few weeks back, and another gorgeous tin she did for me as part of a "Christmas in July Swap". Arent they lovely?

Thank you Kerry! They were both filled with loads of lovely goodies!

And here is my tin I made and sent off (cant remember who to now :P).

These are 2 CJ's I did last night - very basic, but I am a bit late sending them on!

Another LO

2007-07-30T22:39:00.000+10:00

I did this LO for the LSBS July sketch comp. Quite like this LO!

Some LO's! Woohoo!

2007-07-29T22:22:00.000+10:00

Yay! Have done 3 layouts this weekend, and have almost finished a 4th! I would finish that now except I have to go to work tonight in about, um... 15 minutes! lol!

These three are all for the CC that was on at KSK.

Challenge 1: do a monochromatic layout (so all of one colour). Love this pic of Kane!

Challenge 2: do a layout using a photo more than 10 years old. I thought I'd go reaaallly old (almost 70 years!).

Challenge 3: Scraplift 2 elements from a layout that was given. The title, tag/journalling and photos are all in the same place, and a couple of rounded corners.

Very happy with the accomplishment!

My other LO is for LSBS, and their July Sketch challenge, so hopefully will be back tomorrow to share that!

Sad...

2007-07-26T13:04:00.000+10:00

Oh no! The baby bunnies all died! Two yesterday and two today!! We are not sure why - perhaps mum stood on them? She was happy enough to clean them when I would quietly lift the cover and watch, and I put a covered hot water bottle in of a night to keep them warm... and apparently thats how the babies get fed; while she stands over them, so, I dunno!

P is just devastated!

Something Little

2007-07-24T14:22:00.000+10:00

Here is a pic of the 4 cute bunny wabbits taken yesterday (and they're still doing doing well today, so that's 3 whole days! :)).

And here is my double LO for a CJ. The theme was "One Wish". Man, was that a hard topic! The tag with the ribbons on it slides out with some handwritten journalling about why, in the end, I chose "Happiness".

Well, that didn't work!

2007-07-21T21:27:00.000+10:00

What didn't? Staying up after working, and not sleeping! While trying to burn some photos to disk around 5am yesterday, I could feel myself nodding off! The only good thing about staying up (well, there's 2 things) was the peace and quiet, and that I woke J up and had her at school on time for her debating thing at 6.50am!

For the rest of the day, everyone was out or at school, except Jo and wouldn't you know it? When I put him down for his sleep at 12, of course he wouldn't stay in bed! Every time I would lay down, and doze off, I would wake to hear him pottering around with his cars! At 1.30, I put him back to bed (again), but gave up for myself, and of course he went to sleep! I had to leave at 2.45 to pick Kayla up from school, so there was no point in me sleeping at that stage! Grrrrr!

I got my 2nd wind around dinner time, but by 8pm I'd had it! So I was in bed at 9, read for 5 minutes, and that's all I remember until this morning around 8am!

I didn't feel too crash hot though, and sat like a zombie on the lounge, and didn't even finish my ritual coffee! I ended up leaning over, and promptly falling asleep again, and that was me til 11.30! Felt much better after that!

We went out for the afternoon to this place, and the boys especially loved it! I so wanted to scrap tonight, but my eyeballs are sore! LOL! So am about to make myOH and myself a hot choccy, and read some more.

Also, our bunnies have had babies again, so my OH has bought the cage inside to keep them ALL warm, and we have our fingers crossed that they make it this time. If anyone has any advice, I'd love to hear it!

TTFN!

Busy Busy Busy

2007-07-19T21:35:00.000+10:00

Doing nothing much! You know how it is; all that expended energy and nothing to show for it?

Working til 3 in the morning is not much fun, especially when it takes about 20 minutes to unwind when I come home, so am not in bed til 4am. Luckily John has been home so Ive been able to sleep til about 8 or 8.30, but that all changes next week! I love my sleep, and there is no way I will be able to drag myself up out of bed in this Antarctic weather with only 2 1/2 hours sleep. Am working tonight til 3, and have decided to stay up when I get home, and then just sleep when Josh has his midday nap (Kane will be in preschool too). That's still only 2 or so hours sleep, but at least I will actually be able to get some stuff done while everyone is sleeping. Stuff like my own filing and paperwork and burn some photos to CD that I want to print out tomorrow. Another store close by has the same trading hours as the one I work at, but there night fillers work 9 til 1am, so tomorrow I will call a manager and talk to them about the hours, or ask for a transfer.

I also had a call last week from the lady at the real estate, asking me if I was still available to do any work for her... I popped in to see her for a bit of a chat, and we've come to an agreement. I will pick up admin stuff from her if she calls, and email it back to her so she can print it. At the moment, she is getting one of the real estate agents to do it. :P
We may have to buy a new washing machine too! Have had my washer for about 9 years, and its making all these beeping sounds, and not spinning out properly etc, and takes hours to do a wash! So am behind in my washing and ironing again! :( And looks like will have to hand wash stuff for a while! Arggghhh! At least until John looks at it properly, or decides to call a service guy. :P

This is a pic of Kayla reading to Kane! How sweet is that! It was a book she borrowed for the school hols from the library. Behind them is a new nook thing. The doorway that you can see on the left, used to be on the right. Once upon a time (when we first moved in) the room behind that wall used to be a laundry! We've now (or rather John has lol!) painted that wall, and some other feature walls, in a lovely milky choc colour.

Blumars had their Weekend Workshop on the weekend. Interesting challenges for sure! The lovely Chris from the UK kindly allowed us to download and use her paper designs for the challenges. I didn't do challenge 1 - I just couldn't get the design to work for me, but you can see a couple of the other interpretations here.

Challenge 2 was to make a card using Chris's paper and you can see the entries here.

And challenge 3 was to alter a tin for pens and stuff (using Chris's paper) and they can be seen here. Her paper was black and white, so I used water colour pencils to add some colour. And guess what? I won that one! Woohoo!

Oh, and here's my monthly challenge for Blumars. It was to use black and white only with a coloured photo, and perhaps a dash of silver or gold...

There were also some kids challenges, and 2 of my 3 girls won stuff for their entries! They can be seen here (sunset.xx) and here(sunset.xx, k_colour and xo.april.xo). Thanks Maria!

My bro works for PC World in San Fransisco in a pretty top spot, and reviews new gadgets and doodads etc, so he knows which way is up when it comes to 'puters. He has msn, skype and all those other devices to communicate, but do you think he uses them to chat with me? Now, I wouldn't say we are really close, but we're okay... I have msn on all day, and so does he. I am so annoyed that he doesn't just say hi and chat for 2 minutes every now and then! I have always sent little messages. But now, Ive stopped. Last night I saw he was online, so I dropped him a line. His immediate response was "its 4am in the morning!". "And?" I asked him. "Your point?" His reply was that he didn't want to chat then, he was too tired and just had the tv on trying to get some sleep. So I asked him why msn was on then? Why doesn't he just turn that off if he doesn't want to be annoyed! Grrrr. Modern technology! Does anyone else have this problem?

So, other than that, not much, iykwim! Have to leave for work in about 1/2 hour and am sooo wondering how I am gonna make it through the next 14 hours without sleep!

Better now...

2007-07-11T13:10:00.000+10:00

thanks!

Took a few days, but am okay now.

Just have to say, that shock of shocks! John made me breakfast and brought it to me in bed this morning! OMG! If I hadn't of been lying down to begin with, I think I would've fainted! Yummy scrambled eggs on toast and coffee! See, sometimes he's nice. *wink*.

I've worked a couple of times this week, and will be again tonight, so that probably means I will have the rest of the week kinda free. Good though because Blumar's Weekend Workshop is on this weekend, and have their monthly layout I want to finish also.

Pretty boring, but that's it for now.

A bit off!

2007-07-06T21:33:00.000+10:00

Am too tired with a head cold tonight, and am sooooo disappointed as I really wanted to scrap tonight! Blumars has a challenge on this month to use only a colour photo, but with only black and white papers, embellies etc. I went to my LSS today to buy some stuff, which I did :) but am feeling icky...

So, will just show you a couple of pages for CJ's I did yesterday.

The kids and I all have to vacate for the day tomorrow, while John does some work around the house. The only good thing to that is that I know he will clean up most of the mess before we get back! I really dont want to go anywhere tomorrow!

My 3yo boy had a "dress as your fav character" day at preschool today and his hero at the mo' is Batman. Funnily enough, we dont have any Batman costumes, so mummy made some stuff out of foam, paper and material and stayed up last night finishing it! Was quite chuffed! Unfortunately, the parts didnt quite last till we got to school, but luckily daddy managed to grab a couple of pics first! He didnt want to wear the yellow undies over the top of his trackie daks - cant figure out why! Lol! He's a bit of a spunk, my boy!

Tuesday...

2007-07-03T16:02:00.000+10:00

Sorry to the 10 or so people that do read my blog - a blog with out pics of something is pretty boring... will try and create some more things soon, so you can see!

I did manage to be in bed by 10 last night so that was good - the plasterer woke me this morning at 7.30, lol! Geez I wish I needed less sleep!! Turns out I have to work tonight from 11 til 3am again, so not too happy about those hours... I was thinking I could scrap before I go, after the kids go to bed, even if it's just for an hour, but since today is Tuesday, and All Saints is on, it's the only show I HAVE to watch, so there goes that idea! Good news though is that that will mean I will have already done 2 shifts this week, so based off the first 2 weeks, theres only one more shift to do!

So, as I said, the plasterer was here, but only for 4 hours, and will back again tomorrow for another 4 or so. Am hoping he gets everything done quickly, because theres a free disco for the kids at The Mean Fiddler around lunch time and am sure my littlies would love to go. Some of Kaylas friends from Kindy will be there too.

Thats it for now... my kids keep raiding the pantry, so need to design a lock!

Busy Monday

2007-07-02T21:19:00.000+10:00

First official day of the school hols, and we filled our day!

I worked last night from 11 til 3am this morning, and so was a bit difficult getting up ... and I knew my uncle would bring my nan over before the designated time of 9am, (and I was right - they arrived at 8.45am), and I had a stack to do before we left.

We didn't actually leave until 9.30am, and that put me behind! I needed to get gas for the car, but didn't find a service station with a pump that worked until the 3rd one! Then, when I went to pay for it, I realised I didn't have my "trusty" Visa card, and had to pay cash. Now, normally for most people this is no biggie, except, anyone who knows me well knows that we are a Visa family! Just this morning my Pop gave me some money for the 3 littlies to spend in the hols (the 2 big kids got their own money from him), and so I had to use that!

I managed to find where my cousin lives (her and hubby are in the 60's), and dropped Nan off there, and when I got to my girlfriends house (an hour late!), I called the last place I was at spending money, which was a nappy place on Saturday, and they have my Visa! Whew!

If any guy or hubby thinks that girls getting together with their kids is a relaxing experience, BOY!! are they wrong! Aren't they? I nick-named my kids the "2 minute" family ages ago, 'cause every 2 minutes someone needs something, or I'm up doing/getting something for someone! And that's just what it was like between my 5 kids, her 4, and the 2 kids from next door! Yep, 11 kids screaming and running rampant around a backyard!! Very relaxing...

At 2.10 we left there to stop by the post office to get a money order for a Girl Guide camp my dd is in, and then we had afternoon at my cousins and (tried) to catch up a bit. The hour and a half flew by, and before we knew it, we had to leave so I could be in time to meet Tianne and her family at Maccas.

This was the first time I actually met Tianne, as I have only known her through the Scrap Yourself Silly site (when I had it). She is lovely, and so is the rest of her family. And so well behaved! She probably doesn't think so (*wink*), but at least they don't muck about too much when they're out AND at home! Hopefully we can meet up again one day.

Didn't get back until 6pm, and I knew my nan was tired (she is 85, and such a trendy granny), and my uncle was wonderful to pick her up from my place, but didn't get there til about 7pm.

I have so much scrapping to do, but know I had better catch up on sleep, ready for when I work next, so I'm gonna be in bed by 10 tonight.

Mess!

2007-06-26T14:38:00.000+10:00

I haven't worked since last Thursday, and have just been called in to work 11 til 3am. (!!!!) Good money, yukky hours. I haven't scrapped since last Friday, and am so behind on CJ's etc. And theres almost nothing worse than wanting to scrap, and not being able to! I really wanted to get Blumars monthly challenge done too, but I certainly wont have time. I have decided to only scrap at night, and often I am too tired, and now with working and not knowing until pretty much the last second if it will be that night or not, makes it hard to plan anything. At least I get to watch all of All Saints tonight! lol.

My dd who has the boyfriend received a gift off him yesterday - some Faber Castell glitter pens! Good going!

:)

More Stuff

2007-06-24T22:07:00.000+10:00

Bit of a weird day today... actually, a bit of a weird weekend.

I slept in till about 8.30am (which I never get to do), and I wouldn't really call it "sleeping" in - I was trying to, but the kids, well, you know... lol!

I had a headache, and thought perhaps I'd over (tried-to) sleep, and then ended up feeling ill and brought my coffee up. John made me some Vegemite toast, but one little nibble, and ewww! About 10am I hopped back into bed, and got up again just after 12. I knew I was alright, 'cause my tummy was growling for food! lol! I felt perfect! Quite weird!

I scrapped a little on Friday night, but didn't get started til 10.30pm, because the kids were "camping out" and didn't sleep til then. I just worked on a couple of CJ's.

Was trying to make it to Scrapbout Australia over the weekend as they are closing, but never got there (obviously). Was hoping to meet Jen Hall, as it was her last weekend there too.

Found out Thursday night that my dd (who is 10), now has a boyfriend!!! OMG!!! He lives in the next street, and I know him through his neighbour who has daughters that are also my dd's friends. This guy is in the same year, and seems nice enough. My dd has been telling me for a week how kids have been saying "Do you know "J" likes you" and people have been writing it on the board and stuff (wow! do they still do that at school?!). So anyway, he asked her if she wanted to be his girlfriend near the end of the day when they were both on a bathroom break, and he was nervous (she said). She replied "Yeh, I guess," which is what she also said when I asked if she liked him. Too cute.

I worked a total of 3 shifts last week, and felt okay after only 4 or 5 hours sleep... I called WW this after I woke at lunchtime to let them know I was available to work, and the guy said to come in. I was stoked! My first Sunday night shift, 2 hours of which are after 12am, which means double-time pay! He called back just before 4pm, and said he'd miscalculated hours, and I wouldnt be need afterall! Oh, well! Theres always washing to catch up on...

Quick fill-in

2007-06-20T22:17:00.000+10:00

Worked my first shift at Woolies on Monday night, from 10pm til 2am. Everyone - and I mean EVERYONE - was lovely. And the time FLEW! Before I knew it, it was 1.30am! There was almost a drama, when at the end of my shift, the captain asked me where I parked my car, and I replied "the carpark", and she groaned... the centre this Woolies is in is undergoing major reno's at the moment, and everything is chaotic. And some car park gates they lock of a night, and some they don't. There was a good chance that I was going to be locked in! It was puring with rain, 2.15am, and I was frantically trying to think of the steps I would need to take to get home like calling a cab, and having John drive me back to get the car in the morning. Luckliy, security had not closed the boom gates on one side, so I was able to get out! Then yesterday, I had my induction at Coles (from 10am til 2pm), and then I worked at WW again from 10pm til 2am. Conflict of interest I know! But I needed to check them both out to make an informed decision!! I have decided to stay with WW, and will let Coles know tomorrow. The people last night were fab to work with aswell, and one of the ladies is actually the mum of the boy who asked one of my dd to the camp dance a few months ago! Great - I work along side my dd future mum-in-law! PMSL!

So, am pretty knackered. Quite achey all over - literally from my finger tips (from opening boxes and getting product out of them) to my toes! Not as sleepy tired tonight as I thought I would be...

So here it is 10.30pm, and I usually scrap for sure on a Wednesday lately, but really cant be bothered getting the stuff out (OMG!! Did I just swear??). Some great news though about one of the challenges I did from the weekend - Maria rang to let me know I won the card challenge! Awww how sweet. :) She is sending me a pressy. Thanks Maria!

Some stuff!

2007-06-18T09:36:00.000+10:00

Well, since I didn't get to go away to the Hunter Valley this weekend, I thought I would try and do some of the challenges at Blumar's over the weekend.

Challenge 1 was to use the sketch and do a family themed layout using winter colours.

Challenge 2 was to use the sketch and do a baby themed card.

Challenge 2 was to use the sketch and do a bookmark.

Quite happy with all of them! Even more happy I got anything done!

Rae couldn't make it out with Gen and I for dinner, so Gen and I just went to Parra ourselves. Very nice, and lots of chatting! Hope to get to the Hunter in the next month or two.

My latest CJ

2007-06-15T18:04:00.000+10:00

Just a couple of pages from another CJ I'm in... I chose the topic my favourite recipes. By the way, the coffee cup rings are MEANT to be there!

The cute widdle rainblow lorikeet is one of a pair that come visit me every morning and afternoon, and wait at the kitchen window for me...

Weekend Workshop (aka Cybercrop)

2007-06-15T16:06:00.000+10:00

I cant believe I didnt post about this earlier... probably becuase I was so intent on going away for the weekend to the Hunter Valley, and thought I wouldnt be around to participate in it, it totally slipped my mind! We are not going to the Hunter now due of course to the flooding :(.

Anyhow, Blumar's is having their first ever Weekend Workshop (cool name instead of a CC, hey?) which starts tonight! Maria has stacks of things happening - Bingo, Trivia games, classes and of course challenges! So pop on over!

New look!

2007-06-14T22:21:00.001+10:00

Having a bit of a fiddle with my blog's template... gone for a simple notepad look. Still some things to fiddle with but will do another time!

Lots to catch up on! AND!! this is my 100th post! Yippe!

Say hi, if you havent already, and leave me a comment. I would love to know who pops by! :)

2 job offers

2007-06-06T14:15:00.000+10:00

As I knew would happen (because that's the way it always happen in my life), I have been offered a job with 2 major grocery chains. One of them as I mentioned in an earlier post, I did an on-line induction for last weekend. The other one I need to spend all day Saturday in store doing their induction, and a further (total of) 4/5 hours next week for part 2 and 3 (of the induction). (I get paid though for doing that with this store though!). Both companies have their benefits, so at least I can weigh them up, and choose.

Finally got to start of some projects last night, and started with learning how my water colour pencils work, and went a bit "Jen Hall" and did some doodling and words, and coloured those, to get the feel. Not bad. Then I started a couple of CJ's, and have also decided to start (again, like Jen Hall) an everyday journal thingy of our life. Okay, so mine probably wont be EVERY day, but its a nice idea, and I will share some pics once done a few pages.

I have started a new plan and organisation time table thingy, and want to try and spend more one on one time with the boys, especially Kane. So today, I had it all planned; I printed out some basic fish, Josh, Kane and I were going to colour those in, cut them out, attach some paper clips or staples, hang some magnets from some string and stick, and go fishing! I had it all ready to go, and the boys were finishing off their morning tea, when John called and asked me to pick him up from work (which he just quit!). When we got back, we kinda did the fish, but it was a bit rushed, and didnt really go to plan. Kane would cut around his fish, and then start cutting it in to smaller pieces, the magnets kept coming off the string, and Josh was more interested in taking the lids off the textas and putting them back on again! LOL! Kane loved the "fishing" part though, so thats something.

Over at Scrapjacked you can nominate who you would love to "jack", and I nominated Sarah Van Wijck (link in side bar already!). Love this girls style!

Anyhoo, thats all for now. Super cold today, huh?!

2007-06-04T22:19:00.000+10:00

Oh no! I am bursting to scrap, but have had NO TIME!!! We had a garage sale held at John's dads, we went to my girlfriends kids school fair up the mountains, I went for an interview with a supermarket (Friday), and then did an online induction (yesterday) that took about 4 hours (ewww!) instead of their estimated 6 hours, I have piles of washing, majour stuff to sort out with Johns job choices and his dad moving in with us, blah blah blah.

Lots of scrap projects I want to do... I have 2 CJ's to continue from SYS, another one to actually start from Blumar's, a card swap to start on, a monthly challenge from Blumars I want to attempt, this months Scrapjack, and a mini bag / journal thingy from the vibrant Jen Hall!

It's only 10.25... I can fit in some scrapping before sleeping, right???

Hmmm, right after I iron a couple of things, and put another load of washing on...

My "beautiful" layout

2007-05-27T08:27:00.000+10:00

This is my layout for Ngaire's beautiful challenge...

The journalling reads:

I admit, its an ongoing journey learning to accept myself the way I am. Yep, there are things I don’t like about myself. Some things I can change or work on like if my hair is fuzzy or smooth,, or actually laughing more! But some things I’ve learnt, just aren’t important – such as the size of my nose, or if I’m wearing designer jeans. Being happy, and being the best me I can be is what’s important. There’s no way I can be perfect, but there’s a million way I can be beautiful.

I got both J and P to take pics of me the other day for this, and this one was the very first one taken... I chose it because it looks the most like me, if that makes sense. This is how I am everyday. It's not posed, Im not doing something "special" for the pic - it's just me.

I had a lot of fun with the LO, and self reflected as I scrapped! :)

Bits and pieces

2007-05-24T15:04:00.000+10:00

Jobs

More than 2 weeks ago I received an email saying I was on the "shortlist" to be contacted for an interview with Coles. I have called the Grocery Manager twice since then (didn't give my name though) and am still waiting for a call for that interview. Last time I spoke with her last Friday, she said she would be calling everyone this week, probably Monday... It's Thursday, and I'm still waiting (we have message bank, so a message could have been left). Siiiigh.

And yesterday I called a large company about a night admin job, and they rang back and asked for a couple of minor details, and said they'd call back. I called them again this afternoon, and a lady I spoke to said that the manager was collecting everyones names, and would call people next week.

But today, I got a call from another major supermarket, and I am to attend a group interview next week. At least things are moving there.

Musings

I am always thinking of my grandparents; my pop is 88 and my nan is 86 (I think). I always "say" that I should get over there more often (20 minute drive) and also organise a day out every month, just looking about, with my nan or something, but never do. My grandparents are wonderful wonderful people and I love them to bits. My nan has always been cool for her age. She dresses lovely and people always comment. My pop can be quite harsh, but was much stricter when he was younger, and yet, you can just tell how much he loves my nan. They're the old couple you see with him wearing a hat, and holding hands. Very sweet.

My nan in her mind though, is still 30, and so wants to do things, but her body just aint keeping up. She has cuts and bruises all the time, and complains about how old she looks. She's so sweet. Just today, she was telling me about this mole thing on her neck that she's going to have cut off, even though the doctor said it wasn't cancerous, because she thinks it looks ugly.

Pop on the other hand is becoming more and more of a homebody. He sits in the sun and journals, or reads the paper or something.

At Christmas I made them both a journal and journal box - the kind with a stack of questions in the box, and they pull a q out and write about it in the journal. I know Pop loves these kinds of things, but nan worried me today when she said, that I should come over soon, because she didn't know how much time there was left. It was rather ambiguous. I hope the journal isn't something Pop thinks he needs to finish and then he can breath his last breath.... I know it's inevitable, but my grandparents are rocks for me.

My kids

On a much lighter note, Joshy is babbling away and coming out with more words, or is really trying to copy what you say. His latest word(s) is "seesya" while waving bye on his rideon car. Very cute. His other big thing is "I-dew!" for "I love you". Cutey pat-ooty.

And back to some blah, but Melie was telling me about a girl in her year who cuts herself on her forearms, and wears black makeup. Not sure if I should mention it to the school or not? What would you do?

And back to positive stuff, we got the kids the other day to write down a bunch of stuff they might want - it didn't have to be materialistic, just whatever. Then we stuck it on their wardrobe mirrors. One of Melie's things was to "do great in the athletics carnival". Must of worked:

1st in shotput
1st in hurdles 100m
3rd in long jump
equal 2nd in high jump
2nd in 100m
3rd in 200m

How cool is that? And she's not someone who "trains" or does Little Athletics or anything! Brilliant!

P's dance group at school has made it through to the School Spectacular which is fab! J was in that a couple of years ago! Huge event!

Our bunnies will no doubt be parents soon - poor Rosie has been running ragged trying to keep out of Sam's way - she even tries to sit on top of the arch that leads back into the actual hutch! We separated them for a while today and put Sam in to the pen that my OH built for them to run free in, but a part of the mesh lifted and Sam got out, but luckily P and I caught him out front! So Kathryn, do ya want a bunny wabbit soon?

Still too cold to scrap tonight, but will definately do that tomorrow night. Will spend tomorrow setting up so I am ready and warm to go.

Lots of good bloggers have been updating their blogs lately, so have been busy reading of a night... but thats all from me tonight, ciao for now (big clap if you read all that!).

Lazy Days

2007-05-23T21:27:00.000+10:00

John either hasn't had much luck with finding work, or finding what it is he thinks will kind of satisfy him, or that pays well enough etc, so he has been home a lot more, and I cant seem to do much with him around. We are either chatting about our options over coffee, or I am telling the boys not to go downstairs and disturb daddy while he's on the phone or something, and that means I cant do some of the things I need to (like laundry).

So, today had to of been one of the laziest I have had in a long while. Literally didn't do anything. Didn't clean a toilet, didn't do a load of washing or wash a cup.

We took a quick drive to look at new cars, something 8 seater, for our tribe, but not quite ready to purchase yet anyway so came home earlier than we thought ... meanwhile the boys had only had 10 minutes sleep in the car, and I tried to put Josh to bed but just as I sat down with my lunch on the front lawn to watch over Kane while he slept in the car, Josh got up. So we spent another hour or so out lazing about on the lawn, and I kinda read a book. Then we transferred to the backyard, and not long after, it was time to get Kayla from school. I stopped at the bakery and bought a few different yummies, and divvied them out on a plate, and we had afternoon tea in the sun. So nice to take it easy for a change.

I feel a bit like an old woman might feel though... I want to scrap and get crafty, but just can't, either through lack of "get up and go", or circumstance. My scrap space is currently in our workshop / laundry, and is so cold there. And because I like to leave things out until I have finished a page, I cant be bothered getting my stuff out to even start it. In the very next room, where I used to scrap, I cant leave things out as the kiddies go down there too often. I like to stand mostly as I work, but cant remember the last time I had a real table just for scrapping, so the way I do it now, I often get numb legs from sitting on them. And so, in this cold weather... bleck!

I have a couple of nice pics of just me that I want to play around with in a layout for Ngaire's beautiful challenge, so am keen to get started on that.

We have our LSS re-locating this weekend to bigger and better premises, and of course I'm broke. :(

But on a good note, or rather fab note, the ab fab canvas from Mish arrived yesterday, and as I told her, I will post a pic once we have decided on its home. Thanks again for the wonderful gift!

Was also reminded from my gorgeous friend Rae that we are having our girly weekend in a few short weeks in the Hunter Valley. Woohoo. Red wine look out!

Feeling like a crumpet or 2 with honey, and a glass of moo juice, so may just grab a scrapping mag, and curl up in bed with them.

Don't forget my RAK is still-a-happening, so click on the pink "RAK anyone" and send me your details.

Finishing Touch Ideas

2007-05-21T10:49:00.000+10:00

have a cool comp going at the mo'. Check it out!

Ngaire Bartlams "Beautiful" challenge

2007-05-17T13:41:00.000+10:00

Reading Mish's blog just now, she linked to Ngaire's, who has a "beautiful" challenge going at the mo'. Sounds fab, but scary. But I wanna do it. Check it out, and let's see how big we can get this thing!

RAK button

2007-05-17T13:30:00.000+10:00

I've made a little "RAK anyone" button that you will see below the "email me" button... if you want to join the list and perhaps receive a little something. Click it, and send me your details!

CJ's, Swaps and RAK's!

2007-05-16T14:59:00.000+10:00

Over at Blumar's, there's a couple of swaps happening.

The first is a Circle Journal, and it's just my 2nd one I've been involved in. Sign up is open until about the 22nd May, so come on over and join in! It'd be great to see some new faces and styles.

Carlie has started a Bandaid Tin swap, where you decorate the tin and fill with little embellishments etc. This swap is a first for me, so pwitty excited!

Other people on their blogs are so generous, and giving, and I would like to do my little bit for goodness as well. :) I have lots of bits and pieces (craft and scrapping) left over from when I had SYS, and would like to pass them on to well deserving people... I'd like to start my own RAK list. For those of you who have stumbled across my blog, and dont know what a RAK is, it stands for Random Act of Kindess. So, if you would like to be on my RAK list, and perhaps be the randomly chosen person to receive a little something or three, leave a comment and email me using the pink "email me" button at the top right, and please include your name as well as your address.

That's it!

Other stuff

2007-05-15T22:41:00.000+10:00

DD-10 has 2 best friends - one is very girly - owns a million bratz dolls, girlie skirts, lip gloss etc, and the other is the total opposite - into footy, talks a bit rougher, doesn't wear skirts. Now, my dd is in between - sometimes shes a tom-boy, and other times, a real princess. Cool, I reckon. Not conforming to anyone's ideals but her own, and how she feels at the time. A few weeks ago, dd-10 told me her (girly) friend had been "asked" to the dance (that would be held at an upcoming school camp). I was a bit shocked - 10? And they're being asked to the dance? Already? Last week, she then told me she herself had been invited, and that she'd said yes. Oooh! It's a little exciting, and a bit scary! She's growing up! The camp began yesterday, and they're back Thursday. She took a disposable camera with inbuilt flash, so hopefully some of the pics turn out okay (and of her dance partner too! lol).

My mums day was nice and relaxing... yummy breaky in bed, and then pressies. We went for a walk to the shops, and 2 parks (probably a good idea - you should see all the choccy's I got!), and the rest of the day was really lazy. Later, I told J that I wasn't cooking tea, and that we'd just have a spaghetti or baked beans on toast kind of dinner. He ended up buying KFC instead so, yay! But no coleslaw - they'd run out!

Felt a bit melancholy for a little while, and sorted through some photos and memorabilia. Started working on my layout for Blumar's and KSK , and they are both themed about mums. This is my mum holding me when I'm about 2 days old, and the expression on her face shows the uncertainty of how she must of felt at the time. Inside, I haven't done any journalling yet, but it's a bit of a long story that I want to share in the layout, and haven't decided the best way to go about it. (Any ideas? At the moment I'm thinking basic vellum folded up). My mum had just turned 20, was unmarried (my parents married the next month) and was from a strict Catholic home. There's a letter in the next pocket that was the actual one my mum wrote to her parents (my nan and pop) letting them know she had had me on Norfolk Island, and was she welcome home?

Sort of got the job at the Real Estate that sells multi million dollar homes - say sorta, cause she got me in and I typed up some stuff for her, and was there for an hour and a half... she said she would call me on the Friday to let me know start dates. When she didn't call on the Friday, I called her Monday (last week) and I had to fax some info over to her, and she said she'd get back to me. I still hadn't heard up until yesterday morning, so, after much discussion with J, we decided it was in our family's best interest for me to concentrate on night work, so I emailed her my decision.

Have applied for basic jobs such as night fill in Coles etc, but seems you practically need a degree... I sat through an online aptitude / phsycology sort of test a number of weeks ago - you know the ones: If a is to b, and c is to d, what is e to f? What the? I just wanna put tins of sweet corn neatly on your shelf!! Apparently I have been "shortlisted" for a store close to me, and after a number of days with no phone call to arrange an interview, I followed up the grocery manger who then told me she was very busy, and had meetings next week, and hoped to organise some interviews then. Humph!

Well, thats it for now. I'm sure there is more I could be saying, but cant think of anything now.

Must go, and read!

Canvas Sneak Peak

2007-05-15T16:32:00.000+10:00

The wonderfully talented and generous Mish emailed me a pic of my canvas she did for me and in 3 simple words - "I LOVE IT!!" Don't you all agree? How lucky am I??? I can't wait to see it IRL!!

Thanks Michelle, from the bottom of our hearts!

My May Scrapjack

2007-05-12T09:44:00.000+10:00

So many fab entries this month too!

Here is my Scrapjack of Mardi's layout, and, with Bella! being one of the fab sponsors, I thought I just HAD to use their fabric letters (which I painted) for the word "discover"!

The "41 questions" tag

2007-05-10T10:58:00.000+10:00

Holy Moly! Was tagged by Chris, and she gave me the choice of the 2 sets of tags on her blog - as I had just recently done the "7 things" tag, I thought I'd do this one, although, I did one very similar not too long back. Anyhow, things always change, and it gives you something to read, right? 'Cause you don't have anything else to do...

1. Where is your mobile? It's one with all the bells and whistles, and my dad bought it for me, but I don't use all the features. John and I currently "share" my phone; he has it for most of the day at the 'mo, and then I put my Sim card and check to see if anyone loves me.
2. Your Partner?... is male.
3. Your hair? … Brown, long and still straight from being blow dried for the wedding I went to.
4. Your mum? … Is very missed by me. She passed away 4 1/2 years ago.
5. Your dad? Is loved a lot and is there for me when I need him.
6. Favourite thing? What, one thing?
7. Your dream last night? .. Don’t remember.
8. Your favourite drink? Recently converted to red wine, although haven't had one since the wedding... must put it on my shopping list. Otherwise, at the other end of the scale, moo juice (ah, that's milk!).
9. Your favourite Car? Jeep Grand Cherokee, in black. One day.
10. The room where you are? Family room.
11. Your last partner? About 8 or 9 years ago, before John.
12. Your fear? Something happening to my loved ones… especially my kids.
13. What would you like to be in 10 years? Happy, content and financially secure (pinched from Chris - thanks!).
14. With whom did you spend yesterday evening? Kids were in bed pretty early... John watched "his shows" and I made my purse.
15. What are you not? Loud - as in extroverted.
16. What was the last thing you did yesterday? Read an "O" magazine in bed.
17. What are you wearing right now? .. My trusty and comfy grey trackie daks, and a white long sleeve top.
18. Your favourite book? Whatever I am reading at the time (thanks again Chris).
19. What was the last thing you ate yesterday? 2 chocolate eclairs.
20. Your life? Is a roller coaster - always room for improvement.
21. Your mood? … Quite good. Normal for me.
22. Your friends? I tend to have a few close friends, rather than be best buds with everyone. My friends are those who I can be myself with, and can bounce things off each other, and come away feeling good about our relationship.
23. What are you thinking right now? ... Time for coffee and choccy scotch finger bikkies.
24. What are you doing right now? Typing this while my photos are being transferred from my camera to the ‘puter (That's so bizarre - another one like Chris!).
25. Your summer? Gone already - rainy today.
26. What runs in your television? … Only shows I HAVE to watch are All Saints, and sometimes Rove.
27. When did you laugh the last time? Laugh? Hmm, yesterday, I think. But cant remember about what! I think I was on the phone to my dad.
28. When did you cry the last time? … At the wedding on Saturday.
29. School? So long ago. Would do things differently now...
30. What are you hearing right now? DVD "Incredibles", and Kane and Johsy's jabbering.
31. Favourite weekend activity? Taking a drive somewhere and having a picnic, or buying hot chips and sitting in the park while the kids play.
32. Dream job? … Teaching crafts, English, or writing for a big mag.
33. Your computer? … The kids have my pooter - 19 inch screen etc. I'm using a teeny thing so they can watch movies on it. Yeh, I agree Chris, a laptop would be good.
34. Outside of your window? Our back verandah, yard, pool and deck. And trees.
36. Mexican food? Burritos and Tacos are about the extent of it.
37. Winter? Not my fav season - love getting in to bed with electric blanket, and hot chocolates.
38. Religion? We all need to believe in something, but I think it causes so many of the worlds problems.
39. Vacation? yes please. I'm packed and ready, or at least I will be in 10 minutes. Actually, am going away in a few weeks for the weekend to the Hunter Valley with 2 girlfriends, and I don't even think Ive ever done that before!! Woohoo!
40. On your bed? .. Suede brown and chocolate brown. Very comfy and cosy.
41. Love? ... Always nice. Always welcomed.

I'm not going to tag anyone. That was fun, but am a bit tagged out to be honest.

XOX

Canvas from Mish

2007-05-10T10:32:00.000+10:00

Over at Mish's Mas h, she had a thing going that if you were the 2029 vistor to her blog, that she would create a wall canvas for you... and guess what? Me, and 2 other lucky ladies, were the 2029
th visitor! Obviously something went wrong for poor Mish there, as far as her blog counter is concerened! But how lovely that she is doing a wall canvas for all 3 of us!! I love her style, and have been visiting her since she was a member when Scrap Yourself Silly was around. Thank you Mish. How excitement!

This is the little purse thing I made from Crissy's class. Thank you to the very talented Chris for the template. Looking forward to making more (but need to cut out neater!). Just used some left over doublesided jade cardstock, some Pebbles Inc. foam stamps and Colorbox chalk, and some organza ribbon. I've decided to give it to my girlfriend Raelene with some choccy's, when I see her soon.

Bits and pieces

2007-05-09T16:52:00.000+10:00

A busy few days, but all quite good.

Last Thursday, my eldest dd turned 12! O. M. G!!! We didnt do much; just had a fav meal, and lots of junk afterwards!

My dad and L looked after all the kids for us from about 12.30 Saturday, and my and I went to my OH's nephews wedding! (We have not been out together without the kids since my birthday LAST March!). They looked gorgeous, and the reception was fab! I discovered I am now a red wine drinker! I drank a fair bit, and other than feeling a bit flat the next day, I didnt have a hangover or anything! I was blubbering before the door to the church even opened to let her in, and as we sat behind everyone else in the church,we were one of the first that J saw as she walked down the aisle; that made her cry then! When they did the bridal waltz, I had to go back to my seat, 'cause I was crying. It was so nice to see them so, well, in love I guess, and the way they were looking at each other.

Sunday, I took J shopping with 4 of her friends, and bought them lunch. P kept me company, while we "walked behind" J and her friends, and tried to make it look like we "were'nt with them". But J was sweet, and would still ask my opinion about things etc. And her friends were lovely girls.

P may have discovered "her thang". Photography! She took about 40 shots with our digital the other day, and some are really good! Great angles. Here's one of a bunch I really like.

I also ended up getting the job at the real estate place - it's a long story, but suffice to say now that I still havent actually started, and now, John and I are not sure if this is the best option for our family anyhow... perhaps night filler in a supermarket would be better? Same sort of $, no extra cost of childcare, and still with them during the day? Anyway, working on that.

That's it for now - have to pick up Mister 3 from "school".

:)

Just a couple of little things...

2007-04-29T18:12:00.000+10:00

1. The wire shelves are SOLD!

2. Here's a layout I've done for the sketch challenge at KSK

I also did their monthly challenge - to do with Easter - but I'm not too keen on my page. :P

3. Did I tell you Blumar's is open now? lol! It's a scrapping and crafting website for big kids AND little kids! Maria's monthly challenge for May is up now! Check it out!

Blumar's Open

2007-04-29T11:53:00.000+10:00

Maria's site, Blumar's is now open! Well, the forum is anyhow!

Lots of prizes to be won just by simply registering, and joining in in the chat!

For sale - part 3

2007-04-27T13:55:00.000+10:00

For payment details etc, please see earlier post "For sale - part 2".

5. Eyelet setter - 7 pieces.
2 available
Only $2.50 each!

6. Woolly Cat Scraps A4 sheet diecuts - Baby Girl
5 available
Only $1.00 each!

7. Colorbox Style Stones
5 different style packs available
Only $1.00 per pack!

Google "style stones" for more info on what to do with them and how to decorate. Or check out this site that I googled and click "techniques".

8. Word Tiles
5 different packs available
Only $0.50 per pack!

Tagged

2007-04-27T13:09:00.000+10:00

Oooh! I've been reading people's responses to these, and there's some very cool, interesting tid-bits!

Shawnit a tagged me, and she, as an example, can speak 6 languages! I dont care if it's not fluently, m'dear! Thats way more interesting than me!

Well, here are the tagging rules: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. At the end of your blog, you need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

1. I bite my nails. I started when my mum and dad split, but now I can tell how good a book Im reading is by how much I bit my nails. Sounds gross, but I wear falsies to try to overcome it.

2. I hope to write a book one day.

3. I was born on Norfolk Islan d, and was almost adpoted out. My mum and dad were not married at the time, and even though my mum was living at home (she was 20), my grandparents could not tell she was pregnant apparently. My mum went with a girlfriend to Norfolk to think things out, and ended up having me there. My Pop was very strict, but not so strict that he wanted me adpoted out, and welcome both my mum and me into his home.

4. I've always wanted to learn to play the piano.

5. When I eat Mars Bars, I eat the chocolate from all around it first. It takes a while.

6. I cry easily when I can relate to things in movies, books and even commercials! My 2nd dd often watches me during movies to see if I'm gonna cry! :)

7. I don't like fake and false people. I'm quite serious, even though I'm bursting on the inside, and while I actually need help sometimes to release my happiness or enthusiasm, I can't laugh, or comment on something "just because".

From the blogs I read, I dont think that there are many people left who havent already been tagged, but here's a couple:

Mel, Joc, Sheree, and Tianne.

and whoever else wants to do it. :)

For Sale - part 2

2007-04-26T16:14:00.000+10:00

Okay, here's a few things so far. If you would like anything, please leave a comment, and also email me - first in first served. You can pay by direct deposit or I can invoice you via Paypal. Only actual postage will be charged, so if you only want one pack of word tiles for example, postage will only be $0.50. Just ask if not sure.

1. 1 x 15 shelf white wire paper rack. Barely used, non collapsible so wont flat pack for postage. Pick up welcome. $15.00!

2. 12 packs of 15 sheets American Crafts Vellum. Each pack will be assorted so you wont receive 2 of the same sheet. $5.00 per pack.
Below is an example of what you may receive - there are more designs than these, but theres too many to put here! lol.

3. 2 x Crafters Workshop "DooHickey" templates. Brand spankin' new. RRP $11.95 - only $4.00 each.

4. Gorgeous K& Co embossed 12x12 cardstock. Only $0.40 each!

Baby Grey Embossed - 12 available

Butterfly Lavender - 5 available

Engraved Fruit Printed - 16 available
Engraved Fruit Vellum - 8 available

There are heaps more, but blogger isnt letting me put any more pics on for some reason, so I will list the list so far, and if you want pics, I can email you.

White letter Embossed - 16 available
Tulip Ivory - 6 available
Grape Vine Ivory - 2 available
Williams Ivory - 6 available
Floral Cream Printed - 3 available
Floral Cranberry - 2 available
Leaf Hunter Green - 4 available

Remember, these K & Co 12x12's are only 40 cents a sheet! You know what quality K & Co is, and so what a bargain!

Hopefully, more stuff soon!

My first CJ!

2007-04-25T22:42:00.000+10:00

On the SYS forum a few months ago, Carlie - with Kim's help - started our first Circle Journal Swap. There's bunch of us (10? I think) and we each chose our own topic. So I just thought I would share my contributions to date...

This is my ruined CJ cover - a lesson to keep scrapping projects WAAAAAY outta reach of kiddies. And also a lesson to go easy on the modge podge and ink! lol!

My album is "what makes me happy". These are my own 2 pages, and sign in tags.

Carlie's album is "a-z of me".

Maria's album is "all about me."

Of course I did sign-in tags too.

For Sale - part 1

2007-04-25T16:09:00.000+10:00

I've been going through my excess stock, and while I have given my close buddies a bit of a freebie dip in to the pile, there's still plenty left. So, over the next few days (or however long it takes) I will post some stuff here that is available for purchase.

I promise you, they will be at bargain prices. For example, I have a wire 10 shelf paper rack that is practically untouched, for $15. There are some Crafters Workshop doodle templates for $5, and American Craft Vellums - 15 sheets of assorted for $5. And lots more.

Postage is extra, and pick up welcome.

Keep a look out!

Blumar's Forum Opening and First Class

2007-04-24T08:39:00.000+10:00

is very soon! The first class, by the talented Crissy, will be held Sunday 6 May. Check her e for details. Here's a pic of what Crissy will be teaching - a cute bag / purse thingy that was published in SM I think?

On the hunt

2007-04-22T14:14:00.000+10:00

for a job!

Yep, I am officially looking for a J.O.B.

The more I look and think about it, the more excited I am. There are a number of reasons I need to work. One of course is to replace the income that - believe it or not - I did make through SYS. That paid for childcare, my mobile, all business expenses, and stock. And even my own stash. But I am looking forward to talking to "grown-ups" about other issues! lol.

A few weeks ago, I applied and was offered a part time position with a new boutique real estate near home... It sounded great in essence - there was brochure designing and normal admin etc, but she also wanted someone to eventually look after the property management side of things. I ummed and ahhed, and then declined the position, because I figured that I would want to give 110% and didnt want my family to suffer, especially considering that that was one of the reasons I stopped SYS.

Now, after looking for a while at what is out there, and what I am actually experienced with, the job in the estate agent would've been great.

Anyway, Ive applied for a few jobs seriously last week, and have decided to contact the lady from the r/e tomorrow, so who knows. Ideally, I'd like something I could do from home, but yeh, like that's gonna happen!

Meanwhile, if anyone knows of anyone who has a part time (office admin / reception??) position, please let me know.

:)

A feeling of accomplishment!

2007-04-18T15:04:00.000+10:00

Brace yourself... this is a really exciting post.

As you can imagine, with 5 kids and 2 adults, there's A LOT of washing. I do at least one load everyday, and if I miss a day or 2, boy do I notice it! I try to keep on top of it, but often other things happen. Mostly I put the washing straight into the dryer, although I did hang the washing for a while there. Putting the washing on is easy. Putting in the dryer is easy. Folding - yuk. Ironing - double yuk. And putting away - arrrrgggh!

So, I got way behind in the ironing department... I have really just been ironing what we need as we go. Theres a basket for John, one for me, one for the kids, and one for the household or other stuff. Anyway... today, I am extremely pleased with myself; there are only 3 shirts and 3 T-shirts of Johns left, and the kid's winter uniforms to be ironed!

4 FULL baskets down to a handful of items!

Excuse me while I pat myself on my back.

LOL!!

Kathryn, no laughing.

Can you wear black to a wedding?

2007-04-17T20:58:00.000+10:00

Is there some faux pas about that?

We are going to a wedding in a few weeks and it's all pretty exciting for a number of reasons...

1. John and I have never been to a wedding together (not even our own! rofl!)
2. Kiddies are not invited
3. We are staying in a hotel in the city overnight
4. I get to buy a whole new outfit! Whoohoo!

Oh, and 5. It's John's nephew who is getting married. :)

I saw the dress I ended up choosing today in a boutique style shop, and as an impromtu thing, decided to try it on, even though I had all 5 kids with me... (never a good idea).

It is like a black lace overlaying a cream lining thing. Hmmm. V-neck, just below knees, with a big bow thing that does up at the back which was the only thing I didn't like. Then the sales assistant showed me how to tie it around and around my middle like the "latest fashion" and it looked a 100% better. Some simple diamond earrings and maybe a necklace, new shoes and voila! Oh yeh, and get my hair done, and a new bra!

So is black ass-septable? (That's "acceptable" for all you people who don't watch Super Nanny Jo Frost).

:)

Updated

2007-04-16T00:20:00.000+10:00

I have updated some links and pics (still incomplete) for the main part of my blog tonight. Just thought I'd mention it...

K turns 5!

2007-04-15T23:29:00.000+10:00

Kayla had her 5th birthday today - but really she's had an extended birthday over the last few days!

It started Friday morning, with her ears being pierced. They did both ears at the one time which I think is a great idea - over and done with! Kayla didn't cry, and barely flinched; she was very brave! Afterwards, because we were in a beauty salon, one of the girls sat her down, and painted Kayla's nails for her. Awww.

Later that afternoon Kayla had a McDonalds party. Apart from the room not being ready when we turned up, and that I felt I was more entertaining than the hostess, it was a nice time. I wanted to mention something to a manager, but didn't as the hostess is the sister of one of my daughter's best friends. I also get annoyed when people dont RSVP as requested on invitations, and 2 people didnt show.

Afterwards, we took a drive to Krispy Kreme and bought a couple of boxes of original donuts! Yum-o!

Saturday we drove to the city and took a stroll through Sydney Aquarium. Kayla was so impatient, and all she wanted to see were the sharks. As soon as we had seen them, which is near the end of the aquariums layout anyhow, she said her legs were sore, and then thats all we heard for a while! We walked down to the big play area at Darling Harbour and had some lunch. It's never a relaxing time when theres 2 adults and 3 kids going in different directions, but it was even harder when John went to get our lunch! I couldn't see all the kids and started feeling sick, wondering how they disappeared in 2 seconds! And it's the fear of someone else taking them, more than them falling down and scraping their knee that is worse.

Later, we took our time and walked down to Circular Quay, where we then caught a ferry back around to Darling Harbour. The weather was pituresque, and the kids for the most part were fab! Especially Kane! Nary a whinge out of him all day!

Today we had bacon and eggs off the barby which John cooked, and Poppy turned up just as we sat on the deck to eat. It was a lovely morning. Kayla received so many pressies over the last few days, even she couldn't believe it!

I made a paint palette for her cake, at Kayla's request. Here she is blowing out the candles with her 2 bro's.

John had to leave before lunch to start training for his job (which I can't disclose yet).

In the arvo we went to Colins for a yummy baked dinner!

And now I have just found out that Maria has accepted me to be a guest designer on her forum Blumar's - when it opens! That's pretty cool!

Whew!

New Forum - Blumar's

2007-04-15T16:10:00.000+10:00

Slack blogger that I am! I keep forgetting to let everyone know about Maria's new forum that will opening soon!

Maria is a lovely lady who was one of my original members at SYS. She is very involved, and such a lovely lady, and with SYS closing, has now taken taken the bull by the horns (on ya girl!) and is starting her own craft and scrapping forum, called Blumars. It will be opening very shortly, and I look forward to joining her there. There's a heap of prizes to be won, and things to do, even for simply registering at the forum, so check it out and give her support.

And also, for your information, Maria has asked my permission to take some things from SYS and give them her own twist, and has also invited the talented Crissy and Elisabeth to stay on board too! How excitement!

An unexpected gift

2007-04-10T17:19:00.000+10:00

arrived for me today...

Take a lookie! How lucky am I? What a thoughtful gesture! Theres Nutrimetrics stuff, other lotions and potions, candles, trinket box, jewelery, frame and a gorgeous card!

This is thanks to Maria, Crissy and Karen - wonderful members from the Scrap Yourself Silly forum. So, a huge mwah! to you three! Naughty naughty naughty! But thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Do I have a life?

2007-04-09T21:45:00.000+10:00

I’ve stolen this from Sheree’s blog and according to her choices, she has no life…lol!

Do I have one? Well, after reading the choice of movies, I figured I do!

It’s been said that if you’ve seen over 85 movies you have no life. Copy this list (there are 239 films on this list), go to your own blog, paste it in and put x’s by the ones that you have seen. Add them up, change the header adding your number, and post it.

( ) Rocky Horror Picture Show
(X) Grease
( ) Pirates of the Caribbean
( ) Pirates of the Caribbean 2: Dead Man’s Chest
( ) Boondock Saints
(X) Fight Club
( ) Starsky and Hutch
(X) Neverending Story
( ) Blazing Saddles
( ) Airplane
(X) The Princess Bride
( ) AnchorMan
( ) Napoleon Dynamite
(X) Labyrinth
( ) Saw
( ) Saw II
( ) White Noise
( ) White Oleander
(X) Anger Management
(X) 50 First Dates
(X) The Princess Diaries
(X) The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement
Total so far: 9 out of 22.
( ) Scream
( ) Scream 2
( ) Scream 3
( ) Scary Movie
( ) Scary Movie 2
( ) Scary Movie 3
( ) Scary Movie 4
(X) American Pie
(X) American Pie 2
( ) American Wedding
( ) American Pie Band Camp
(X) Harry Potter 1
(X) Harry Potter 2
(X) Harry Potter 3
( ) Harry Potter 4
( ) Resident Evil 1
( ) Resident Evil 2
(X) The Wedding Singer
( ) Little Black Book
( ) The Village
(X) Lilo & Stitch
Total so far: 16 out of 43
(X) Finding Nemo
( ) Finding Neverland
(X) Signs
(X) The Grinch
( ) Texas Chainsaw Massacre
( ) Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning
( ) White Chicks
( ) Butterfly Effect
( ) 13 Going on 30 (Sundenny 30-for all us Aussies)
( ) I, Robot
(X) Robots
( ) Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story
( ) Universal Soldier
( ) Lemony Snicket: A Series Of Unfortunate Events
( ) Along Came Polly
(X) Deep Impact
( ) KingPin
(X) Never Been Kissed
(X) Meet The Parents
(X) Meet the Fockers
( ) Eight Crazy Nights
( ) Joe Dirt
( ) King Kong
Total so far: 24 out of 66.
( ) A Cinderella Story
(X) The Terminal
(X) The Lizzie McGuire Movie
( ) Passport to Paris
(X) Dumb & Dumber
( ) Dumber & Dumberer
( ) Final Destination
( ) Final Destination 2
( ) Final Destination 3
( ) Halloween
(X) The Ring
(X) The Ring 2
( ) Surviving Christmas
(X) Flubber*
( ) Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle
(X) Practical Magic
(X) Chicago
( ) Ghost Ship
( ) From Hell
( ) Hellboy
( ) Secret Window
( ) I Am Sam
(X) The Whole Nine Yards
( ) The Whole Ten Yards
Total so far: 33 out of 90.
(X) The Day After Tomorrow
(X) Child’s Play
( ) Seed of Chucky
( ) Bride of Chucky
(X) Ten Things I Hate About You
( ) Just Married
( ) Gothika
(X) Nightmare on Elm Street
(X) Sixteen Candles
( ) Remember the Titans
( ) Coach Carter
( ) The Grudge
( ) The Grudge 2
(X) The Mask
(X ) Son Of The Mask
(X) Bad Boys
( ) Bad Boys 2
( ) Joy Ride (aka Roadkill - for us Aussies)
( ) Lucky Number Sleven
( ) Ocean’s Eleven
( ) Ocean’s Twelve
(X) Bourne Identity
(X ) Bourne Supremecy
( ) Lone Star
( ) Bedazzled
(X) Predator I
( ) Predator II
( ) The Fog
( ) Ice Age
( ) Ice Age 2: The Meltdown
( ) Curious George
Total so far: 44 out of 121.
(X) Independence Day
( ) Cujo(x) A Bronx Tale
( ) Darkness Falls
(X) Christine
(X) E.T.
( ) Children of the Corn
( ) My Bosses Daughter
(X) Maid in Manhattan
( ) War of the Worlds
( ) Rush Hour
( ) Rush Hour 2
( ) Best Bet
(X) How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days
(X) She’s All That
( ) Calendar Girls
( ) Sideways
( ) Mars Attacks
( ) Event Horizon
( ) Ever After
(X) Wizard of Oz
(X) Forrest Gump
( ) Big Trouble in Little China
(X) The Terminator
(X) The Terminator 2
(X) The Terminator 3
Total so far: 55 out of 147.
( ) X-Men
( ) X-2
( ) X3
(x ) Spider-Man
( x) Spider-Man 2
( ) Sky High
( ) Jeepers Creepers
( ) Jeepers Creepers 2
(X) Catch Me If You Can
( ) The Little Mermaid
(X) Freaky Friday*
( ) Reign of Fire
( ) The Skulls
(X) Cruel Intentions
( ) Cruel Intentions 2
( ) The Hot Chick
(X) Shrek
(X) Shrek 2
Total so far: 62 out of 165.
(X) Swimfan
(x) Miracle on 34th street*
( ) Old School
( ) The Notebook
( ) K-Pax
( ) Krippendorf’s Tribe
( ) A Walk to Remember
(X) Ice Castles
( ) Boogeyman
( ) The 40-year-old Virgin
( ) Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring
() Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
() Lord of the Rings: Return Of the King
(X) Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
(X) Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
(X) Indiana Jones and the Last CrusadeTotal so far:

Total so far: 68 out of 181.

( ) Base-ketball
( ) Hostel
( ) Waiting for Guffman
( ) House of 1000 Corpses
( ) Devils Rejects
( ) Elf
( ) Highlander
( ) Mothman Prophecies
( ) American History X
( ) Three
( ) The Jacket
( ) Kung Fu Hustle
( ) Shaolin Soccer
( ) Night Watch
(X) Monsters Inc.
(X) Titanic
( ) Monty Python and the Holy Grail
( ) Shaun Of the Dead
( ) Willard
Total so far: 70 out of 200.
( ) High Tension
() Club Dread
( ) Hulk
() Dawn Of the Dead
() Hook
( ) Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
( ) 28 days later
( ) Orgazmo
( ) Phantasm
(X) Waterworld
( ) Kill Bill Vol. 1
( ) Kill Bill Vol. 2
( ) Mortal Kombat
( ) Wolf Creek
( ) Kingdom of Heaven
( ) The Hills Have Eyes
( ) I Spit on Your Grave
( ) The Last House on the Left
( ) Re-Animator
() Army of Darkness
Total so far: 71 out of 220.
() Star Wars Ep. I The Phantom Menace
( ) Star Wars Ep. II Attack of the Clones
( ) Star Wars Ep. III Revenge of the Sith
( ) Star Wars Ep. IV A New Hope
( ) Star Wars Ep. V The Empire Strikes Back
( ) Star Wars Ep. VI Return of the Jedi
( ) Ewoks: Caravan Of Courage
( ) Ewoks: The Battle For Endor
(X) The Matrix
() The Matrix: Reloaded
() The Matrix: Revolutions
() Animatrix
(X) Evil Dead
( ) Evil Dead 2
( ) Team America: World Police
( ) Red Dragon
(X) Silence of the Lambs
( ) Hannibal

So a grand total of 74 out of 239

Woohoo! I have a life!

I reckon I haven’t watched most of these movies (apart from not liking the look of them) because I hate not watching a movie from the very very beginning. And also waiting until the kids are asleep or until there will be no interruptions, so when its 10pm, I’m too tired, or too busy, or not in the mood. J

Busy few days

2007-03-26T13:17:00.000+10:00

Have hardly been on 'puter the last few days... have felt a bit unenthusiastic about things, plus have been really busy here at home...

Some eventful stuff happening with Johns work which I'll tell you about some other 60 seconds.

With SYS finishing, and Johns "stuff", we having been planning things, and making lists, of things to be done, and bought, and places to go and people to see.

We cleared my desk, and combined my 3 areas of craft to one area. The extension room has been made in to a big playroom, with the kids pc, a day bed, ball tent, all their roller boxes full of toys etc.

Downstairs is now our retreat and bar area which leads on to the pool.

Joshy is already in his own big boy bed; we bought Kane and him a small bunk and put the side guard up, and JJ loves it!

Ive merged and purged, and thought I would have more room, but if Johns dad ever ends up here after all, I'll have to re-arrange everything all over again.

Sick family

2007-03-20T08:44:00.000+11:00

Kane had a temperature last Friday and his preschool called to ask me to take him home around lunch time. John was ill with aches and pains all of yesterday and Kayla was a bit off, and today she is home from school with a temperature and sore head. :(

Sunday we went into the City to celebrate the Sydney Harbour Bridge's 75th birthday. We didnt want to walk across the bridge with 200 thousand other people and see nothing but bridge, so we walked on the pedestrian access and viewed the water etc. We were only allowed as far as the first pylon though, but it was probably just as well, as the kids were complaining of sore legs from walking so much (as kids do!). It was a bit overcast, but still a nice day. Nothing like being among a celebration - you cant help but get in the mood.

John was very affectionate Sunday evening - reckons he saw the "old" me. :P

Must say my house is more organised the last few days, but only just did some scrapping last night, while Kayla tried to do some of hers (but wasnt really in the mood). Am working on a CJ I'm in today, somehow, cause even though J is out for most of the day with interviews etc, I have 3 kids at home. And need to do more ironing. There's still 3 baskets of the stuff!

My clever nearly 5 year old

2007-03-16T14:52:00.000+11:00

has already received 4 awards from school (Kindy) so that means she now gets a level 2. All the awards accumulate and she can then get "the big one". One of her awards was for getting 100% right with her sight words! How good is that? From knowing no words 7 weeks ago, to now knowing at least 50 words to read! Go K!

A new day

2007-03-16T14:46:00.000+11:00

So is today any easier than yesterday? Yes and no. People have emailed and phoned and left such lovely comments, which helps me think that all my efforts with SYS and the site were worthwhile, but on the other hand make me sadder that I wont be apart of this anymore. One positive is the financial side of biz. Loved orders - hated posting. Loved checking my bank account - hated book keeping! lol. So, those 2 things I won't have to worry about now, hey? :)

I have had a couple of expressions of interest for my biz, and requests for help in setting up other similar sites, so thats all good.

That will actually be quite exciting - to visit a site and forum that one of SYS members starts up! Yay!

So, why?

2007-03-15T13:00:00.000+11:00

I'll be honest.

For many months, SYS has been a HUGE issue between J and me. He thinks I am more committed to my business than my family, especially my children.

I don't tell you that to put J in a bad light, although I am extremely upset about it this whole thing.

There is an element of truth in his thinking - I have always called SYS my 6th baby.

I will still scrap, and visit forums, so hope to see some of SYS friends about.

Please feel free to comment or send me a message.

Goodbye SYS

2007-03-15T12:59:00.000+11:00

This may come as quite a shock to some of you, and it is with sad regret that I inform you that Scrap Yourself Silly will cease operations at midnight 31st March 2007.

It is for a variety of reasons that this decision has been made, and is one of the saddest moments of my life.

The site in it's 3 sections (Main, Gallery and Forum) will remain as they are until the date above.

Unfortunately, the Cybercrop this weekend will not go ahead, however the chatbox will be turned on to participate in Crissy's Teabag Folding class on the Saturday night.

At this stage, the forum will be the only thing that remains operational from 1st April, to allow for Circle Journal chit chat (which I will remain a part of) etc.

All outstanding orders will also still be filled, and I will be holding a mammoth sale shortly to clear out excess stock.

The Run 4 Rani and CWA Raffle will also still go ahead, and I will announce a date as soon as possible as to when the draw will take place.

I am truly sorry for any inconvenience this causes anyone, and while I'll still be around for any of you to chat, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support and patronage of Scrap Yourself Silly.

I would also like to thank Mel, Crissy, Elisabeth and Amanda for being a part of SYS Creative Team, and all your hard work, ideas, and inpiration. You guys are fab!

I will miss SYS, but I am sure I will catch up with you at other forums.

Birfdee

2007-03-12T21:15:00.000+11:00

It's my birthday today, and I dont look a day over 40... thats probably because I'm only 36!

Easy peasy day today - started with breakky in bed, and nice and relaxing. J made kids lunches etc and got them off to school.

Kathryn called to say she couldn't make it for our lunch date out after all, because Charlotte was not well. (turns out she has fluid on the hip and is in with Kathryn in the hospital overnight - hugs to you guys).

Didn't do much at home, but also didn't do what I wanted to do, as J was home too, and can nver seem to accomplish much with him about. Received Carlie's circle journal though, and that was nice to receive - cant wait to get started on my lo. Also received a gorgeous card from Crissy - thanks!

We went out for dinner tonight, just to Lone Star, and that was nice. All the kids were soooooo good, especially Kane, who really shocked me!

I got a bit tipsy though - on 3 glasses of wine in 2 hours, but am rather sober now - just tired! lol.

This is 6 of us...

Nice weekend

2007-03-11T21:49:00.001+11:00

I actually slept in til 8 am this morning... unusual for me, especially since at least one of the 5 kids will wake me at some point!

John and I spent the morning cleaning up the back yard. I also blower /vac'd, and moved paver's etc, and we worked till lunch time! This arvo we popped by my Nan and Pops house, and then to Colin's for dinner... he made me a meatloaf with baked veges that mum used to make me, and a fab choccy cake with strawberries and cream! Yum. Rus bought all the kids late Christmas and birthday pressy's, so they were all over the moon with that. But here it is, 9.55pm, and theres stuff from our time out this arvo strewn all over the table, that I need to sort out. Plus I want to organise the kids uniforms for tomorrow as I haven't had a chance to do it today... And I just remembered Ive got washing on the line! Bugger!

It's still so humid!

SYS Cybercrop is on this coming weekend, and am looking forward to that! Have got some hints happening there, such as green, patterned paper, birthday, luck, and others, so be sure to check it out. And as well as Bingo (which we have played since our first CC last year), I will be introducing 2 or 3 new games, one of which I am absolutely certain I have not seen played on any other scrapping forum (not that I have looked at every other forum either!).

There's also our on-line raffle to raise money for Run 4 Rani and the CWA, and our kids monthly challenge which is more craft related this month, rather than a scrapping one.

Well, must go finish my midori and lemonade, and read my book (The Touch by Colleen McCullough) a little, before I commence round 5! lol.

Music that brings back memories!

2007-03-10T16:10:00.000+11:00

Far. Out!

Mix 106.5 are playing songs from the 80's and 90's all day today, and man! what memories these songs are bringing back!

Lisa Stansfield - Been around the world: brings back memories of dancing with Rae and Gen in a nightclub called Bogarts in Parramatta.

Yazz - The only way is up: memories of dancing with someone else while Jamie was watching, in a nightclub called Stags in Auburn.

1927 - Thats when I think of you: Memories of going to Parra Leagues with Rae and watching the band 1927 perform.

Wow! And here I am, 2 days away from being closer to 40 than 30, and plucking long strands of grey from my hair!

Still, bring on the mu'sak!

Hello B!

2007-03-08T21:03:00.000+11:00

About 13 or 14 years ago, I went out a couple of times with a guy I worked with. He was a musician, and even wrote me a song and recorded it (do you remember B?). I still have it. Very sweet. How many girls can say that? lol. Unfortunately, I think he was the guy "between" relationships. That is, between MY relationships. I left my first love, went out with B a couple of times, and then met and married my (now ex) husband.

While playing around with Skype last year, and trying to think of people from my past who I may want to chat to, I searched for B's name and voila! He also had his web address shown, and he looked like he had followed a dream and pursued his music career, which is fab! It also linked to another site or two, one of which pictured and named a woman who I guessed to be his wife. Anyhow I sent a message, he replied, and then that was it til I received an email last week from him. He called yesterday while I was out shopping, so I called back today.

It was so good to catch up... how do you sum up 14 years in a 1/2 phone call? B, you re very easy to talk to! :)

Anyhow, I'm sure he doesn't want any of his personal stuff splashed across with world wide web, and we all know how touchy some people can be! :)

Stormy

2007-03-04T23:24:00.000+11:00

Well, it's all 'round stormy here, but thankfully, not between J and myself for a change.

We've actually been, um, closer (although as I type that Im not sure thats really the word, and I find myself reaaaaalllly thinking more lately about what I write and how it's going to come across :P) over the last 2 weeks, since all this stuff has been happening with his family. Perhaps he sub-concsiously knows he does need someone to listen to him?

After all the kids were in bed tonight, I commented on what a lovely night it was; the kind to sit outside, with a cool drink, and watch the night. So we opened up the french doors onto the pool, and let the breeze in, and drank scotch and coke (thats all there was left for me), and watched the Kylie concert on ABC, and talked about all the stuff happening. J and his dad unfortunately had another argument this morning, and John was so emotional and angry. We even talked about picking up everything and moving to QLD (again). But we will probably put that off for a year or so. We're also trying to decide what to use (what was going to be) Poppy's room for, and whether to still put the kitchenette in there, and also the bathroom, but it looks like we will not put the bathroom in, and make it into a hallway thing with cupboards etc so it can be accessed from inside the house (not just outside) and make it a bedroom for 2 of the kids.

Anyhow, it was nice to chat.

Later we watched the storm surrounding us from our bedroom window upstairs, and that was amazing to watch. I love storms, and even now, as I tap tap away here, the rain is falling, and thunder making itself heard.

Anyway, just wanted to share that my evening was nice, and it was spent with J. :)

Nothing Much...

2007-03-04T00:01:00.000+11:00

Went to a LSS today as they had a comp on - any purchases over a certain amount gave you an entry into a "One Minute Dash", which was drawn today. If your name was called, you had to be there to win. Winning gave the winner the chance to run round the store and grabbing whatever they liked, but only one of each item. The person that won knew exactly what she wanted, and it was actually quite exciting watching her run around the store grabbing what she could in one minute. (even though I didnt win :( ). The draw was at 2pm, and I kept the boys awake so that we could go, since John wasnt home to watch them for me.

It was so humid today that I didnt feel like doing much, so apart from the necessary housework, the only other thing I did was organise my ribbon collection. Will be posting some pics of that on the site soon.

Thats all folks.

I won...

2007-03-01T21:26:00.000+11:00

a $100 gift voucher for a shopping mall that I shop at sometimes! Woohoo!

Hubby wants me to buy a counter water purifier / cooler. :( While I want us to all drink quality water, I would rather it came straight from our fridge... we need a new fridge. Our shelves are broken or cracked, and it's too small for us now, but we cant afford a new one, and who knows when we will be able to. But I dont want a big ugly water thing on the bench either.

Can't I just buy a pair of shoes or a new outfit? lol!

I've lost it!

2007-02-28T21:04:00.000+11:00

hehe...my mo·jo (mō'jō') that is!

The definition for mojo is somewhat different to the context us scrappers use it though... here are a few definitions:

n., pl. -jos or -joes.

A magic charm or spell.
An amulet, often a small flannel bag containing one or more magic items, worn by adherents of hoodoo or voodoo.
Personal magnetism; charm.

With all the stuff happening around here, but especially with Johns work hours the way they are, I'm finding it a bit difficult to get into the swing of things scrapping wise. By the time ALL the kids are in bed, around 9pm, I may get to do a bit of work, and then John comes home, and we chat about his night.

Have some craft and party kits I am working on though, and Elisabeth's Exploding Box class this Friday night, so am really looking forward to that one!

So very sorry

2007-02-28T13:37:00.000+11:00

My legs are wobbling, and I feel sick. I have just received a call from a lovely lady who happens to own a scrap site. My entry from yesterday has prompted a couple of disappointed people to contact her and let her know what I had written.

I am truly very sorry for ANY comments taken personally and misconstrued. I certainly was not trying to blow my own trumpet and assume the "I am better" position. The lady of the site who called me just now is one I actually admire for all her hard work, and the ladder she has climbed to get to the position she has.

One of the last things I do before I go to bed at night is blog surf, and I should have been more general in my comments. Perhaps some would say not even say them at all. But as one person posted in their comments, we should be allowed to say what we like. And here I add: except for when it comes to being unprofessional and critising of others.

I am gob-smacked, and I know others agree with me when I say that we dont need any more bitchiness in this industry. I also have to defend myself a little by saying that I didn't say anything negative about the contents of other people's blogs or about the person themselves, nor did I criticise any other scrapping (or non-scrapping) store. I simply meant that I want my blog to be more about me, rather than about my site.

I hope I run into the lady that called, so I can hug her and and say thanks.

Well. How was your V Day?

2007-02-14T23:22:00.000+11:00

John and I have never really celebrated Valentines Day as such - he's just not very romantic, and while I think it is over-commercialised, there's still the soppy side of me that would love to do something extra romantic this day...

While out this arvo, I bought John some heart shape truffles and chocs, and left a little note on the box, by the bed.. then he started being his (what has become) his normal snotty self, treating me like a child, so I went and took the chocs that he hadnt seen were there yet, and put them on the counter, in obvious view, for me to eat later (which I have now done. Not all of them yet!).

So, that was that.

Before Kayla started Kindy this year, I enjoyed Wednesdays because that meant that Kayla and Kane were both in preschool, and Melie and Paris went to their dads for the arvo, so I got more work done. Now I have to go and pick Kayla up at 3pm... last week, I organised with Steven, that he just pick the girls up from me here, since I had to go and pick Kayla up anyway, and that that would also give me the chance to wash Melies sports clothes, and they wouldnt need to remember things like their school bag etc to bring back from Stevens. Of course, John hated it, and after Steven left that day we did that, he said it was not to happen again. Grrrrr.

On a much happier note, Elisabeth sent me some tag albums and Exploding boxes today, to be used for our online raffle (run 4 rani and cwa) and as some prizes for challenges etc. They are ab sol utely gorgeous! I want them for myself. Will try and take pics in the next day or so...

Cybercrop on in 2 sleeps! Yay!

Attack of the CJ

2007-02-12T22:54:00.000+11:00

I thought that where I put the covers for my CJ was a safe place away from my kids, but obviously not!

Next time, they go higher, higher!!

Of course, Mr Nobody did it, but I think really my 3 yo son got it down, and was then assisted by his 18 mo brother who promptly ripped off the flower! Arrrgggh!

Mama was not happy. But lesson learned - keep your stuff in a safe place!

Am just going off to fix it... I think Mod Podge just may do the trick... if I can find 2 little missing pieces of paper!

Ive been tagged

2007-02-12T22:26:00.000+11:00

Oooohh! I finally get to say it! Tagged by Crissy!

Not quite sure how this goes really, but what the heck!

A cuddler?
I love cuddles! Big cuddley cuddles!

A morning person?
Not really. Don't like HAVING to get up, but once I'm up I'm glad!

Are you a perfectionist?
Not really. I like things how I like them, but I wouldnt say that it's always perfect...

Talented?
Not at any one thing.

In your pyjamas?
No, it's still early - only 10.50pm.

Left handed?
Nope.

LAST.... friend you saw:
Kathryn at her new house on Saturday.

LAST... sent text: last week, but I cant remember who or what.

LAST ...night wore: to bed?
Singlet and boxer shorts

Made: Dinner tonight. Chicken snitzel, corn cob and ceasar salad.

Got any plans: Always plans of some kind. Always things to do.

FAVOURITE... number: whatever my age is

color: white, but technically it isnt a colour is it?

CURRENTLY missing: my mum (pinched from Crissy, but agree totally!)

Q's and A's

q:first thing you did this morning: coffee and read for 5 minutes before the kids attack!
q: last thing you ate: ricecream
q: do you have anything bothering you? John
q: what's the last movie you saw?: At a cinema? Can't remember
q: where is the last place you went? The post office to post orders.
q: do you wish upon stars? Occassionally
q: are you a friendly person?: Yes…. most of the time...
q: where did you sleep last night?: In my bed
q: what color shirt are you wearing? White
q: when was the last time you really cried? Last Wednesday night. Something to with John. Again.
q: what was your last thought before you went to sleep? How to do my 2 pages for my Circle Journal.
q: what are you about to do? Fix my cover of my CJ that one of the kids ripped off!
q: if you could drink anything right this second, what would it be? Chocolate drink, or Baileys on ice.
q: what's your job position called? Chief Cook and Bottle Washer, Maid, Home Management. Mum. LOL!
q: what's your favorite month(s)? January and February. Sunshine.
q: what was your elementary school's mascot? *shrug*
q: what's your favorite bottled water? What? Buy bottled water? Never!
q: what were you doing at 9pm last night? Doing something on my site
q: did you attend your high school prom? Yes
q: did you go to someone else's prom? No
q: do you prefer coffee or tea? Coffee
q: something to read within 5 feet? All my business stuff
q: how much french do you know? A couple of words. Je Taime Jamie was my fav, as my first sweetheart's name was Jamie and I used to say that to him all the time. (Je Taime means I love you).
q: ever crash a car, been in an accident? Only minor, thank goodness!
q: do you look good in yellow? Alright.
q: do you sing? Mostly in the shower or when I am EXTREMELY happy, or kids songs to the kids!
q: ever sing in public? - Are you joking?
q: least favorite color? Grey.
q: ever had dippin dots? nope.
q: how many driving tickets have you had? About 3.
q: do you own your own house? We have a mortgage.
q: at what age did you/do you want to get married? married at 23.
q: have you ever been married? Once. Divorced at 29.
q: how many kids do you have/want? 5 kiddies. Thats it! Finito!

I tag Heidi and Amanda.

2007-02-11T00:05:00.000+11:00

We have our first circle journal swap happening at SYS, and Ive never been a part of one, so am involved with this one... Actually quite excited and looking forward to seeing everyones work. My theme is "What makes me happy". Thought it may be good inspiration. Not that I ever get down too much, but am just not an overly excited person. Have done most of the cover, and most of the work on sign in pages.

SYS has probably had the biggest month ever this month, which is just fab! And have had our first overseas order too (other than New Zealand!)

Finally getting in to a bit of a routine with the kids at school. Its a juggling act (although John would call it not being organised) to try and manage taking and picking up 3 kids to and from school, housework, grocery shopping (we go through 4L a milk a day!), business (not that Im complaining about business - its my choice to do it - its what makes me feel "grown up" too), posting orders, catching up with others either on the phone or in person, be with the kids etc etc.

John still doesnt "get" scrapping, and still thinks I dont give enough time to the kids, so am trying to only be on puter around midday when the boys are asleep, and then after everyone has gone to bed! Hmmm.

:)

Did I tell you?

2007-02-07T05:45:00.000+11:00

Did I tell you that my youngest cutie dd started Kindy? Real Kindy? All too grown up that's for sure! She has a lovely teacher and Miss Moo comes home everyday babbling away about what went on that day. But then that's nothing unusual - Kayla is ALWAYS talking. This week homework started and she is adamant she needs to do it - gee, wonder how long that will last? hehe. "No, mummy, I have to sing "ants in the apple" to you AND daddy". Oh, okay. :) She did have a bit of a scary thing happen though - I'm not sure of the full story, but Kayla and a friend were talking (or whispering) in class, and some boy was annoying them or something, and he ended up whispering to them "I'm gonna go to my mums drawers, and get some knives and bring them here, and kill you both". He said WHAT??? I was so angry, but had to contain myself so I didn't frighten poor Kayla. She was alright about it though. Apparently the teacher found out, and said "if I ever hear you say anything like that again, you'll be sitting on the naughty mat." :s

P is in year 5 this year and Monday she already had a collage to put together about herself (ooh! ooh! Do you need help with this P, 'cause Ive got some great ideas!?), write a speech to present to the class, plus her normal spelling words and lists, for Friday.

And J cant believe how much homework she has. She knew she would get loads, but thought she would have a week to do it, but is realising that each subjects work is due the next day, or the next time she has that class. She'll be okay I think, because she's good at getting on with her work and getting it done. P on the other hand... well, hmmm. See the homework she brought home that I mentioned? Yesterday P asked me if she needed to work on it, and couldn't she just do it later? *roll eyes*.

Talking of P, she woke me at 4.50am this morning, because she had a bleeding nose. She gets them sometimes, although hasn't had one for a long time, and certainly not while sleeping. It seemed like her nose had stopped bleeding, when she went grey and was swaying, and she wouldn't sit, but as soon as she did, she felt better. She's back sleeping now, so, now that I have finished spot cleaning the carpet, I thought I may as well stay up.

Kaney boy is talking soooo much better - my OH took him to the audiologist for a hearing check on Monday, and they said he has normal hearing, which is great! We can notice anyhow, as now he says "Blue" instead on "Boo" for example. He's just turned 3, but now am a little concerned about Jo, as by 18 months, all 3 of my girls were practically able to sing nursery rhymes. Jo's words are "Where?" that comes out sooooo cute sounding a bit like a squealed "weeh?" Imagine his chubby little hands out asking it. His other one is "Or Goh" which translated is "all gone". Very cute.

The business side of things has been really busy this month, which is fab - probably even busier than Christmas. I've been getting new stuff in like Dimensional Magic, Mod Podge, some lovely cardstock, embossing pads, pens and powders, and some distress inks from Tim Holtz. And I actually pick up some gorgeous doodling type templates today from Crafters Workshop.

There's also heaps happening as far as classes and challenges too!

This months challenge is to create a layout using fabric. There's also a sketch is you're feeling a bit stuck.

Our next Cybercrop is happening Friday 16th for the weekend, and on the Saturday night, Starlight (Amanda) will be teaching an Embossing Class online, which is free, and a challenge will be set from that. You don't have to of participated in the class to do the challenge though! We also have a major sponsor donating a prize pack for one of the challenges! Yipee!

So here it is 6.15am, and I feel like I didn't get much done. I know I will be in bed early tonight, that's for sure.

Busy day ahead posting more orders, but also need to wait for other stock to arrive, which I am expecting today. Only Jo (and my OH) at home today, so should get lots done. Well, more than I normally do anyway.

Ooops! Lagging a little

2007-02-04T21:40:00.000+11:00

So, I'm a hopeless blogger! Now, imagine I have put up my 3 fingers in Scouts style and hear me say "I promise to keep my blog updated with interesting and useful information, especially relating to upcoming classes, challenges etc on Scrap Yourself Silly".

LOL!

After umming and ahhing for a while, with Johns encouragement (or pushiness? :)) I enquired about a Graphic Design course at TAFE. To cut a long story short, the course starts tomorrow and is full, but the teacher I spoke to says its inevitable that people drop out or don't even start etc, and places no doubt become available. I have a feeling he will call me tomorrow... oooohhhh! Scary stuff.

Anyhow, that's it for now. Tired as! But some ironing and stuff to finish, and a lady coming tomorrow to look at some shapes etc.

CYBERCROP TONIGHT!

2007-01-19T08:29:00.000+11:00

Our Cybercrop is on tonight!

How excitement!