Anything Papercraft and all about Me

2012-02-01T17:00:00.000Z

Here are my Chinese Whispers layouts for the 1st Feb

This first one is using the Portabello Road Range from Docrafts which I knew I had to have as soon as I saw it. The bunting is made using a Stampin Up Punch and the taxi is from a GoGo October Retreat kit.

This I've made using my recent Sarah's Cards kit plus a couple of punches and thickers alphabets.

I loved the layout I received from Rebekah so haven't really changed it much apart from the theme.

Last day of January...........

2012-01-31T16:12:00.001Z

not many photos taken but it's been a good month.

Attended 2 crops, been to see 2 films, someone very important to me has returned into my life, I've managed 4 layouts - not bad going for me! shed some weight but I will update the tab move more eat well tomorrow.

The first crop I attended is run by Merly Impressions - it's held every other month and I love it. I spent a very enjoyable day with Sharon & Sandra, I even managed to complete 2 layouts for my Chinese Whispers. The second was held in Southoe and it was lovely catching up with everyone there. Anna Bowkis has decided to give scrapbooking up professionally but was still able to provide a kit. I completed my 3rd Chinese Whispers layout and then made the following layout using the kit Anna provided.

I saw this film with Mark - it's a very good film but like many I feel it was made too early. This one did make me shed a tear.

I took Lucy to see this - again a good film but I didn't cry

I will be back tomorrow with my layouts for this months Chinese Whispers.

2012 …….what will you bring???

2012-01-10T16:22:00.001Z

Can’t believe it’s already the 10th January – been meaning to blog for a little while but been spending a lot of time sorting with still lots more to do.

Resolutions, I have made a few.

One is the Move More Eat Well – there is a tab at the top of my blog where I will keep you updated with my progress, so far, so good.

Sort areas in my home that really do need a good clear out – always hoped I would have another baby so all Lucy’s baby things are still in our loft, and I mean all!! She’s now 14 so I think it’s time to sort that out but will need Marks help for that as I hate ladders.

To continue the fun I had in 2011 – I already have much crafty goodness booked and am planning many trips this year.

Make more progress with our family tree.

Learn to use my DSLR better and get to grips with photoshop elements!!!!!!!!!!!!! that might take some time

To ensure I get some layouts done each month I am currently a member of 3 Chinese whisper groups. Here are my layouts that I did for the 1st January.

2011-12-31T17:19:00.002Z

To all my Family, Friends and Blog Readers

Working backwards

2011-12-07T17:00:00.000Z

It’s hard to believe now but the 1st October felt like one of the hottest days of the year!!! I remember it well as this is the day I attended the Ifa Zainon workshop in Trumpington. It was really too hot to be inside but did manage to do both layouts. When we arrived the kit we were to work on was individually wrapped.

GoGo Pinch Punch

2011-12-06T17:00:00.000Z

This layout is designed by Lorraine Ablett. There are many things I loved about the GoGoGetaway but one of them is that you get to chose for the weekend 7 classes out of a total of 21 classes. At the retreat you can go into a draw for a class you may not have done to get the kit and then once you get home you have the opportunity to down load the PDF for any class that you didn’t get to do but still want to try using your own stash. The following is one of those layouts.

GoGo Out of this World

2011-12-05T17:00:00.000Z

The following layout was designed by Lisa Griffin of the GoGoGetaway design team. This time it was spritzing and using stickers as masks. Time to remember Lucy’s year 6 sports day.

GoGo Zipz, Glitz and Corsetry Bitz

2011-12-04T17:00:00.000Z

The following layout was designed by Nicola Kerridge of the GoGoGetaway design team. This time we used zippers to make flowers, had seen this on You Tube but hadn’t done it before. Again started at the getaway and finished at one of the evening crops. I loved previous work that I had done of Nicola’s so knew I had to do at least a couple of her classes.

GoGo Set Sail

2011-12-03T17:00:00.000Z

The following layout was designed by Sam Ball of the GoGoGetaway design team. Lots of fiddly cutting out and using different textures. Started at the getaway and finished at one of the evening crops.

layout 2

2011-12-02T17:00:00.000Z

This following layout was from a kit put together by Anna Bowkis but I fell in love with how Kerry Hardie interpreted the layout and I just knew it suited my photo of Lucy and I at the Ritz back in the summer for Mark’s birthday.

1st of many

2011-12-01T17:00:00.000Z

Layout one I completed at the Merly Impression crop – I knew I had to get it done as it is my layout for this months Chinese Whispers. Am loving being a part of this and have another 2 whispers starting in January – I should then at least complete 3 layouts per month and for me that is very very good!!

Said I’d be back tomorrow

2011-11-30T16:13:00.001Z

on the 2nd Nov and here I am 4 weeks later……. but again it has been a busy time with a

Beginners Beading course at Knuston Hall – this was a fab day and I actually came home with a finished piece. Hope to go back again in Feb – not going to detract from my love of papercraft but am pleased I’ve given it a go. If you’ve not done a course at Knuston Hall I would recommend it.

Mark and I hosted a Murder Mystery at our house which happened to fall on my birthday. It was Murder on the Dance Floor. We had to work out who had killed Crane Breville Cowl! I played the professional dancer Wilma Waltzwurk and Mark was Dazzler Duck. I won’t say who the murderer was in case you ever want to buy the game.

I’ve attended the 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop and the Merly Impressions Crop – I completed layouts at both of these and really do plan on sharing lots of my layouts over the coming week as am going to load a layout a day until I’ve got through them all. The first will come tomorrow.

We helped to raise money for Children in Need at work.

The last thing for this month has been helping our Lucy celebrate her 14th birthday – she is turning in to such a stunning young lady (yes I know I’m biased!!!)

Watch out for the layouts, the first one comes tomorrow

18 months since I booked

2011-11-02T17:27:00.001Z

but finally the day came for me to go on my first GoGoGetaway – which for those of you who don’t know is a weekend scrapbooking retreat with like minded ladies. I’d booked my place in April 2010!!!!! I’d heard very good things and believe me I wasn’t disappointed. I love things that are well organised and well thought out and this ticked both those boxes. All the teachers were lovely and very talented. Lorraine, Janice and their team couldn’t have done anymore to have made my experience any better. I also got to spend quality time with Sara and a lot of other lovely ladies. I have been told since that I beamed the whole weekend.

Together with our welcome pack on Friday, when the crop room opened, we had this on our desk

It was delish and very much enjoyed on the Saturday afternoon with a cuppa.

In total there are 21 classes to chose from – 7 sessions with 3 classes running at the same time. We had to make our choices prior to the event. It was nice that we all went off to a class at the same time.

The first session was at 9pm on the Friday evening – I was a little concerned how I would stay awake as this is normally PJ’s and hot choc time in our house!!! lol

My first class was taught by Lorraine and I’m really pleased with the result.

part 2 to follow tomorrow

73 days since my last post

2011-11-01T21:34:00.001Z

ooops……but hasn’t it been a fun time

A cruise

A new kitchen

A Michelle Jackson-Mogford workshop @ 3 Jolly Scrappers

An Ifa Zainon workshop

A 48 Hour Crop in Swindon

A 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop

A Lets Grow Old (Dis)Gracefully Party

An evening with John Barrowman, but not on my own!!! lol

and the fabulous GoGoGetaway Retreat

plus all the other mundane stuff like work!!

I have been doing lots of crafting and have taken lots of photos which will feature in layouts I will be sharing.

Today I suddenly felt it was time to start blogging again, so sorry, here I am!!

I’m going to start with my most current project first – I have recently signed up to various Chinese Whisper Circle Journals. You find a sketch you really like and create a layout inspired by that sketch then send a picture of that layout by email to the next person on the list. You then receive a layout which you then lift ready for sending the next month. At the end you will end up with lots of layouts that you have been able to keep but have still shared ideas. I’m hoping this will keep me focussed on my scrapping. Here’s the first layout that I sent this morning.

Well that’s me for today but I promise to be back before the end of the week with more layouts to share.

Mark’s Birthday Book

2011-08-20T20:14:00.001+01:00

To makes Mark’s book slightly easier to do I went digital. Have never really fully got to grips with Photoshop Elements so used Serif Craft Artist Professional, which I would highly recommend. I printed using the Aldi Photo Book service and was very pleased with the results. I also now use this to print all my photos.

A little something to share

2011-08-18T17:03:00.001+01:00

I was inspired by Merly Impressions – Click here to have a look

Yes I know, it’s been so long

2011-08-17T15:49:00.001+01:00

Did think I might stop but then I love looking back at what I’ve done so here’s an update on what has been keeping me so busy.

I would like to say it’s the gym, but I’d be lying that has now gone, it’s official, I really do not like exercise!! Still maintaining my weight and will have another crack at shedding a few pounds after my holiday.

Something else I’ve not managed to stick with is my project life but did manage to finish the book I made for Mark’s 50th Birthday which he celebrated on the 27th July – it was also our 15th wedding anniversary.

Work is going ok and stock take is over for another year

Lucy finished year 8 and is eagerly looking forward to returning in September. 6 weeks off is really too long. She did really well in year 8 and both Mark and myself are very proud of how well she is doing. She works hard to do well.

Lucy is coping well with her phobia of dogs however now that she spends more time with Archie we have discovered that she is allergic to dog hair!!!

New kitchen is booked and due to commence the beginning of September. Started to sort cupboards – I still had the baby steriliser from when Lucy was a baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have got to have a wisdom tooth out at the hospital – not looking forward to this.

Can report Mark is back singing and has had his first public sing since before he was poorly.

To help Mark celebrate his big birthday we went to the Cotswolds for 2 days one night and then went to London for 2 days one night. Both trips were a huge success. Being a tourist in my hometown is very strange (I was born and bred in London and didn’t leave until I was 29). Tea at The Ritz was awesome, I’d recommend staying at The Premier Inn County Hall, a must is the yellow duck bus tours and Mamma Mia wasn’t bad either.

I’ve had some lovely crafting times in the last 2 months as well – Southoe Crop, Workshop with Annie Hafermann at the 3 Jolly Scrappers, Workshop with Ifa Zainon in Cambridge, attended the first Merly Impressions Crop. Haven’t had a lot of time to play other than attending these but hope to change that soon. Will try to get some pictures on of some of the things I’ve done.

I can really say the last 2 months have created some truly amazing memories and looking forward I know I have a lot more to come.

Be back soon xx

Blimey…………I’ve actually won something

2011-06-21T16:28:00.001+01:00

I don’t normally and with the other entrants producing some truly stunning work I never thought I had a chance but I won the Tag It Challenge over at the ATDML cybercrop . Still pinching myself

Cybercrop Challenge 1 TAG IT!

2011-06-18T17:01:00.001+01:00

Even though I couldn’t join in last night I did give this quite a lot of thought as I drifted off to sleep.

I’ve wanted to make a clock for my craft room for a long time – I had to give the clock mechanism a really good dust as I had bought it so long ago. The tag was already in my stash.

Have you remembered?

2011-06-18T16:54:00.001+01:00

it’s the A Trip Down Memory Lane Cybercrop this weekend. It started last night with the first class being posted by Mel and so far we are up to 6 classes and 2 challenges. If you fancy joining in click on the banner below – it will take you straight there.

I was hoping to make a start last night but as I couldn’t get warm and felt really tired I had to get to my bed, then this morning it was the shopping so I’ve only really got stuck in this afternoon however I’ve downloaded the instructions for the classes and have been working on the tag challenge which will appear in my next post.

A huge thank you to Mel, Jill & Ann Freeman

Just popping by to say Hi :-)

2011-06-14T22:15:00.001+01:00

It’s been a while but have been busy with work – it’s getting close to our annual stock take – whoopee!!!

Still attending the gym, but perhaps not as often as I should and the weight is slow to move but haven’t given up yet. Going straight from work has been the answer.

Have had Lucy’s first parents evening since she started secondary school. I found it very emotional as all her teachers say how well she is doing and I felt so very proud. It’s going to be very hard for her next year what option choices to make. Lucy loves art, is very sporty but also very academic.

On the 4th June we helped Mark’s dad celebrate his 80th birthday by hosting a small family get together at our house. Lucy has had a phobia of dogs for a very long time. It’s prevented us from holidaying where we would sometimes chose and for 3 years we didn’t go to our nieces house as they got a dog. For the last year she has really worked on her fear and even though it will never fully go she has now made a friend of Archie. This means now that we can all be together for family events.

I have been busy crafting. I attended the Southoe crop where I did a layout that I really love – will take a picture and pop on the blog before the weekend. Attended the 3JS crop where I worked on a digital project I’m doing for Mark’s 50th, which is next month. Have made a few cards and thanks to my friend Sharon have now started on my project life. Have just completed week 2. I’m not lucky enough to have a proper kit but am busy designing different elements to use with it.

Am really looking forward to joining in with some of the ATDML cybercrop this weekend – won’t be able to do it all (it’s fathers day on Sunday) but will do some.

To close I’ll leave you with a couple of cards, I’ll be back again soon.

At last

2011-05-18T08:00:00.002+01:00

the page has a title!!! lol

Cyber Crop–have you ever done one?

2011-05-17T07:34:00.001+01:00

I haven’t but am tempted to give the following one a go

The First ATDML Cyber Crop!

We are excited to announce the first ATDML Cybercrop to be held the weekend of June 17th-19th 2011.
We will be bringing you 12 classes with free full pdf instructions from our talented design team, along with 6 challenges and the opportunity to share your creations in an interactive gallery!! There will of course be a little prize or two available to win along the way and some pre-crop frenzy here on the blog too!!!
For those of you who have not participated in a Cybercrop before or have no idea what to expect we will be providing a timetable and a suggested supplies list at beginning of June. You will have the opportunity then to gather your supplies or make any desired purchases in plenty of time to join in the fun. Over the Cybercrop weekend we will be scheduling a number of blog posts, each with a link to a fully illustrated PDF class instruction on our main site which you will be able to print off and join in over the weekend, or indeed whenever you feel like!
The design team are all busy scrapping up a creative storm to bring you a suite of classes sure to please and have a couple of pre-crop challenges up their sleeves as well so start getting excited and spread the word!!

Click here to go to their blog

2011-05-15T13:50:00.001+01:00

ANNIE HAFERMANN

is coming to teach @ 3 Jolly Scrappers

Sunday 3rd July 2011

Many of you will be familiar with Annie’s work - she is an amazing designer and her classes are guaranteed to inspire.

For full details and to book your place click HERE

Middle of May already

2011-05-14T17:43:00.001+01:00

Doesn’t time fly when you are having such fun.

Sunday 1st May we visited Burghley House and it’s gardens. Mark and I had been years ago so it was nice to revisit. The house was lovely and then you have the garden of surprises which is great fun and even better for younger children on a hot summers day. Remember to take a towel and a change of clothing for the children. There is also the sculpture garden, dear park and lake side walk. Would highly recommend.

Saturday 7th May was the Sandie Vincent’s workshop at 3 Jolly Scrappers. I had been looking forward to this day for sometime. Spending time with friends and doing the things you enjoy is always going to be fun.

The first class was using Echo Park

Then it was time for lunch followed by a layout using basic grey

We had time for homemade cake

Followed by a group shot (can you see the skirt at the back but no head, that’s Antonia!)

Thank you Sandie and 3JS for a fab day

Sandie and I then had a very relaxing evening whilst consuming a small amount of wine

Last night was the monthly crop at 3 Jolly Scrappers – I took a layout along to work on from the Sarahs Cards Kit and copied a layout from the inspiration sheet designed by Rachael Elliott

Have you noticed a new trend – all the layouts are finished!!! I think having my pink ATG gun has really made my scrapping so much quicker.

It was another lovely evening spent with lovely people

This week I decided it’s time to do something about my sloth like body. I do want to lose some more weight but what worries me the most is how it is slowly ceasing to work. So on Friday I re-joined the gym!!!!!!!!!!!!! The lady on the initial visit asked when was the last time I had attended, my answer 4 stone ago I have my induction tomorrow morning and have already booked myself into aqua fit on Wednesday – I’m hoping being in the water people won’t see just how bad I am. A stone off before my holiday in August would be good and then I’d like to shift the other 3 before next year. I WILL SUCEED!!!! _{wish me luck}

Diddington Village Hall

2011-05-11T22:24:00.000+01:00

Diddington Village Hall will be hosting its first Craft Fair. Saturday 14th May 2011 between 10am-5pm. Free entry to members of the public, ample car parking, refreshments.
For anyone unsure about where Diddington is, it's between Little Paxton & Buckden, on the A1

Want to see some truly inspiring and creative work

2011-05-04T18:18:00.001+01:00

then I would suggest you pay a visit here and what I find so annoying is that she is just so lovely as well!!!

Want a good giggle and to see some stunning photography - then this blog is certainly a good read click here to visit

Don’t think I’m the worst……….

2011-04-30T12:41:00.001+01:00

but it must be close, at being one of the laziest bloggers going

It’s been a whole month since I last blogged but it hasn’t been a quiet one – with only 18 working days there have certainly been some good times.

Here’s a quick replay

40th Birthday party on the 2nd – sorry no card or photos to share

Sharon’s Birthday on the 3rd – had a lovely evening out on the 26th to celebrate

3 Jolly Scrappers crop on the 8th (not quite finished a layout) and then Ally Pally with Sara on the 9th. Really enjoyed spending time with Sara. It was her birthday this month also.

Natalie’s 40th on the 16th – had the best time – I was really in the right mood and loved the costume I ended up getting – have never enjoyed wearing a hat so much. Due to time I hired it but am so pleased I did

Here’s the card I made

Good Friday we travelled to Derbyshire for a mini break. Had a fabulous time made even better by the exceptional weather. Chatsworth was stunning and it was lovely having a poke around Bakewell.

Did make some Easter gifts this year – Birdhouses and a carrot. The birdhouse was designed by Jo Dumbleton and you can click here to get the pattern. I forgot to take a picture of the carrot before giving it

Then finally yesterday the country was gripped by wedding fever. I really didn’t think we would watch but like so many got drawn in and to be honest I really do wish them lots of love and happiness.

What will May have in store????

Update on Mark

2011-03-31T16:04:00.000+01:00

Hi, thought I better fill everyone in on how Mark is getting on - he has now returned to work but on reduced hours/workload. Outwardly he looks very well but is getting tired easily - has been told by doctor that it could take 6 months to feel normal!! He has decided not to sing at convention this year.

With the nicer weather we are making plans for some nice times together. He is celebrating a BIG birthday this July.

I would like to thank everyone for their kind words of support. xx

Day 2

2011-03-30T20:27:00.000+01:00

Saturday morning came round far too quickly with my first class starting at 9.30. This was a layout designed by Ann Freeman using Prima Madeline.

As I had arrived on the Friday night we got an extra class kit designed by Mel which I completed during the day.

My other class for Saturday was with Debbie Jewell using Sassafras Sweetly Smitten.

Here's a shot of the main cropping room.

As wine was drunk over dinner not a lot more happened on Saturday evening other than playing with a little bit of decopatch which I'm looking forward to doing more of.

Part 3 may take a little longer - Have you noticed I'm actually finishing layouts!!!!

About time

2011-03-30T16:21:00.000+01:00

I know but how can crafting leave you feeling sooooooooo tired???
D day finally dawned - I had to get to work for 8.30 so I could be away by 12. My SatNav found a sense of humour and took me a very interesting route but I did arrive in under 2 hours. The venue was lovely and I arrived in gorgeous sunshine - not so good as I still had my thermal vest on that I need to wear when I go to work - so to say I was a little flustered and hot would be an understatement!!!! Checked myself into my room, which was huge - 2 double beds for just me.

Then I got myself settled into the crop room before my first class at 3.15 taught by Jane Hewitt. This was an envelope book using Graphic 45 - Once Upon a Springtime. I've finished the book construction but still need to embellish and add photos. Here is Jane's Envelope Album.

I'd wanted to do Mel's class that had started earlier in the day so got that in kit form which I then worked on that evening. It was using Fancy Pants - It's the little things

There were many challenges and make and takes going on over the weekend and I decided to take part in one of them. The swinging 60's. I'd prepared some of what I was going to do before I went but finished it's construction Friday evening. The other entries were stunning so there was no way that I stood a chance of winning but it was fun to do.

Will be back with day 2 soon

2011-03-24T08:00:00.002Z

2011-03-23T08:00:00.001Z

2011-03-22T08:00:00.001Z

2011-03-21T08:24:00.001Z

2011-03-20T15:41:00.003Z

2011-03-19T10:09:00.002Z

6 more sleeps :-)

Help

2011-03-17T20:00:00.006Z

this layout needs a title - any suggestions?

Original layout designed by Staphanie Garbett for Craftystash

Update time...........

2011-03-16T22:22:00.000Z

Thank you everyone for all your good wishes. Mark came out of hospital a week last Monday and by last Friday I was whacked!!!! Am pleased he's home but can't wait for life to return to normal. He does something and feels really tired which he is finding very frustrating so having to work hard at keeping his mood good :-( He's still got a week and a half off on his sick note so hopefully he will steadily improve.

I've made the decision to reduce my hours at work which is really helping. It gives me the extra hour in the day.

A few weeks ago I finally finished the layout designed by Sandie, which I started at the Scrapping Angels retreat last June! I do normally get things finished in the end. I still have one to finish by Tracie Hudson!!!!

Last Friday evening I had another lovely evening at the 3JS crop. Thanks Sahron for all your support xx. Mark turns 50 this year so I have started working on album for him but don't want to share the layouts I did just yet.

Sunday I had a very pleasant day out doing a Sir Stampalot workshop using the Molly Bloom stamps and being taught by the designer herself Clare Rowlands. Love the finished result but not sure I will be spending this much time on a card again!!!!

Monday evening I spent making a card for Joan, Mark's mum who is 80 years young this coming Saturday. For this I used the cricut :-)

I'm now starting to get really excited because in 8 sleeps time I'm going on my first fully blown retreat (where I get to stay overnight for 2 nights!!!) Classes have been chosen. Photo's printed/ordered and now I just need to pack :-)

What a funny weekend

2011-03-06T21:10:00.002Z

I've been married to my hubby 15 years this July and in all that time we've never been apart more than 2 nights and usually if we are it's because I've gone away for work/craft so this weekend is a first and me very much don't like. I'm not the easiest of people to live with and I'm sure sometimes Mark must think that to :-) I have massive hormonal mood swings and sometimes think the grass is greener on the other side but despite all that Mark is always there for me.

Last weekend Mark started with pain in his back which to start with got a little better but by the end of the week had got considerably worse. Friday we spent at the Medical Assessment Unit. Towards the end of the day Mark has been diagnosed as having clots in the lung and an infection :-( he has now been in hospital for 2 nights with tonight being his 3rd and I just want him home. Tomorrow morning he sees the Doctor so please keep everything crossed that he is now on the mend.

I love you Mark xxxx

Hello

2011-03-03T20:00:00.000Z

just a quick post to say I haven't vanished just been really busy with work and things. February disappeared in a flash!

Have fitted in a couple of crops and a small bit of crafting. Got to see The King's Speech and had a nice day out in Cambridge shopping.

March is busy, busy. Mark's mum celebrates her 80th Birthday. I'm off to the 3JS crop on the 11th, doing a workshop at Sir Stampalot on the 13th and the last weekend of the month I'm away at the A Trip Down Memory Lane Retreat and I just can't wait. Have seen a list of the classes and getting really excited now - 3 weeks 1 day to wait :-)

I'll leave you with 3 cards and a layout - will have more to share soon

p.s. for those wondering, I never did start a year project, far too much procrastinating but am planning on doing Mark his own album as he celebrates his 50th Birthday this year.

p.p.s My very dear friend, Sharon, has started blogging again and you can find her here

Have you heard?

2011-02-16T21:17:00.002Z

The very talented and lovely Sandie Vincent is coming to teach a workshop at

3 Jolly Scrappers on Saturday 7th May.

If you would like to see the kind of things Sandie does then why not visit her blog here.

Want to book a place (and they are going fast) then pop on over here

Looking for Cricut Carts

2011-02-15T21:55:00.000Z

Just found out that Smart Crafts have a sale on all their Cricut Carts - here's the link for anyone interested LINK

Wow!

2011-02-07T21:23:00.000Z

I'm not the biggest Tim Holtz style of person (I'm sure he is a lovely person please don't get me wrong) - I like to see some of the projects but they really are not for me but Laura Denison may have just changed all that - she really inspires me - go check this out. I love the fact that even though the items are really decorative they also have a place to store your memories.

Very Exciting..........

2011-02-04T20:40:00.001Z

3 of my favourite teachers will be teaching workshops for 3 Jolly Scrappers. I've made a note of the dates, will you?

Saturday 7th May - Sandie Vincent

Sunday 3rd July - Annie Hafermann

Sunday 25th September - Michelle Jackson-Mogford

Have managed to make a card this week but not much else :-(

Not much to talk about

2011-01-31T21:50:00.000Z

as have mainly been working. Lucy had a couple of days off sick week before last and I didn't feel that I could leave her so I've had to make up the hours :-(

Did have a very pleasant day at the Southoe Crop yesterday - spent a lot of time chatting but did manage to complete the following layout - this is a craftystash kit designed by Sue Thomas. The circle is made by using a Martha Stewart Corner punch. I did take another 2 layouts with me to do but didn't get to those!!!!

What outstanding service

2011-01-26T22:34:00.000Z

Yes, I am going to praise the 3 Jolly Scrappers again. At the crop on Sunday a lady who attended had the following WRMK- 12 X 12 Mixed Photo Sleeves and was asking if they could get some more for her. I saw them and really liked them. Just 3 days later I now have them and if you would like them to, why not click here and place your order.

Yes I'm back again

2011-01-25T16:41:00.001Z

2 posts in 24 hours - aren't I doing well??? This card was inspired by this lovely blog

This is another layout from the Scrapagogo Workshop I attended last November - the original layout was designed by Lorraine Ablett. I loved her design but as I didn't get the layout completed on the day I have changed a few things - please note that the button tops a tag which slides out where I have added some journalling.

Sunday 23rd Jan was the 3 Jolly Scrappers all day crop - it also turned out to be their birthday. They now have their own blog so why not pop on over and become a follower of theirs.

Here is a layout I completed at the crop - this was a project from Craftystash, however I'm not sure who the designer was. I just loved this photo. I also worked on a double page layout but that is still waiting the title so I'll be back with that one.

3 weeks, oh my

2011-01-24T16:35:00.000Z

How can time be flying so quickly??? Mind I have been quite busy - 2 trips to the cinema, family get together, lunch out with Brother and his wife, visited with Aunt & Uncle, meal with friends, Lucy poorly, 3JS crop and coloured my hair oh I nearly forgot working 30 hours per week!!!!

Cinema visits were to see Narnia, Voyage of the Dawn Treader and Gullivers Travels and we loved both them. One of the funniest bits for me is where one of the little people disappears up Jack Blacks bottom and in the credits at the end he actually gets a mention as the "Butt Crack Man" - now fancy putting that on your CV!!!

Catching up with family and friends has been fab and I'm looking forward to doing more of that this year.

Have been making plans for the year as Mark turns 50 in the summer - holiday all booked, a cruise plus lots of other things planned for the year. Anyone would think it's my birthday as am lucky enough this year to have got booked onto 3 different scrap booking retreats. A Trip Down Memory Lane in March, Sparkle Dreams at the beginning of October and GoGoGetaway at the end of October. If you fancy joining me on these why not visit the various links as I'm sure 2 of them still have spaces.

My scrapbooking resolutions have been finalised - to finish projects/layouts, ensure journalling is on each page even if it needs to be hidden and I am going to do a Document your year in a monthly format.

Have been scrapping and crafting this month so to start here is a layout that I started at the Scrapagogo Workshop I attended back in November. The layout was designed by Nicola Kerridge. I've changed it very slightly so that I could add some journalling.

Blogger not playing nicely at the moment so will be back soon with more :-)

Procrastinator

2011-01-03T14:04:00.000Z

n. - One who procrastinates, or defers the performance of anything

think this sums up me and my scrapbooking nicely!!!

Would like to do a year long project but go from yes would be a fab idea to do I really do enough???

Have been looking around the web and there are some lovely ideas out there but just so many - what do I go for??? It's not as if I'm short of supplies!! hehe

Are there any I've missed? Would you like to share any with me? I would love to hear from you

One resolution

2011-01-02T11:40:00.001Z

I hope to keep in 2011 is to finish layouts/projects so with that in mind here are 5 layouts I completed yesterday, which can now be filed away

These first 2 layouts were done at the 3 Jolly Scrappers workshop taught by Tracie Hudson

The following 3 were done at the Craftystash Crop in December

I still have many more to complete :-) lol

Latest new toy

2010-12-31T12:45:00.002Z

and just had to share as it's such good value - Cordless Glue Gun - just £4.99 from Maplins

Do you have anything you'd like to tell me about? - fab products, great websites, blogs I really should read - please tell

Well did you have a good one?

2010-12-29T12:30:00.002Z

I know I did - spoilt rotten. Spent a lovely day with my Sister-in-law and family. Lucy has always had a phobia towards animals but she decided it was time to try and work on it so this Christmas we were able to spend it with the family + Archie the dog - well done Lucy.

Here are the girls on Christmas day - this is a layout that I did at the Tracie Hudson workshop but was needing a photo.

This second layout I did at the Scrapagogo Through the Keyhole event and was designed by Eileen Webdale. The flower has been made by stamping onto canvas using a Chinese lantern stamp!

Hoping to get some more finished - so will be back again soon xx

2010-12-24T09:52:00.000Z

This photo is a couple of years old but think it sums me up beautifully - crackers :-)

Where have I been?

2010-12-23T11:13:00.000Z

I think the quick answer is just busy :-) Just been looking through my diary since my birthday and I've been to see Les Miserable in London, been to a friends 50th Birthday party, attended a Tracy Hudson workshop hosted by 3 Jolly Scrappers, had Lucy's 13th Birthday, attended a workshop hosted by Scrapagogo, the 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop, Craftystash crop and the works Christmas meal as well as working 30 hours a week.

Mark has been poorly which started with chest pain - after visits to the Doctors and the hospital he found out he had a chest infection on the other side to the pain - but I think the pain can easily be explained when I learned that he had tried to get himself into our loft with out using a ladder!!!! He now has a sore leg which is just a pulled muscle but you would think it was about to drop off - he doesn't do poorly at all well and I'm a bit lacking in the understanding department!! lol

I have done lots of crafting as you can see from my first paragraph but have quite a lot to finish - hoping to get loads completed over the Christmas break and will post photos for anyone interested.

Here is the card I made for my friends 50th together with a commission I had for someones 80th.

My Baby becomes a teenager

2010-11-27T04:50:00.002Z

27th November 1997 - the happiest day of my life

Happy 13th Birthday My Darling Lucy

Here I am again, another year older

2010-11-14T10:24:00.000Z

Firstly here's a card I made using both promarkers and copics and incorporating the skills I learnt on the Sir Stampalot course - I'm really quite pleased with myself.

Monday saw the start of my birthday celebrations when I went for a meal with my very dear friend Sharon - it was lovely to catch up - as we are now both working girls it doesn't happen as often as we would like.

Friday was my actual birthday - if I live to be 90 I have now reached middle age!!!!! Looking a bit flushed in this photo due to a couple of glasses of Merlot. Can't drink like I used to as now my colour matches the wine I drink! We had a very quiet but nice evening.

This is the card Mark made me

and this is the one by Lucy

and here are my gifts - I hope Sara takes it as a compliment that I've now got the same camera bag as her but I fell in love with it.

Have been waiting for this punch for quite a while - can't wait to play with it later.

and thank you Sara, I LOVE this. I also have a few pounds to spend thanks to my family - Sir Stampalot demo day here I come! hehe

I would like to thank everyone for their birthday wishes and cards I am a very lucky lady

I can colour hair

2010-11-07T10:06:00.020Z

First I’d like to share a card a made for a friend who got married last Friday – the photo is brilliant as I took it at night!

Yesterday was my trip to Sir Stampalot for a copic class – I already own quite a few promarkers but have never got to grips with colouring but thanks to Louise I can now do hair and I think if I was starting out buying pens from the start I would go for copics! However I am going to use both as having played with my promarker skin tones I do prefer the affect – not quite so orange. Our class started by learning to do face and hair and then we made 2 cards. I also learnt a really good tip about scrunching up paper flowers – wet them first!!

Struggling with Promarkers

2010-11-05T17:42:00.001Z

People have always said how creative I am. I however think I’m not. I can’t draw at all and love copying other peoples work hence why I enjoy attending workshops so much. Well thanks to Lynn over at the Scrapology Blog I have now found these 2 blogs – Passion for Promarkers & Promarker Weekend Workshops – hopefully now my colouring will improve!!!

Happy November

2010-11-03T16:24:00.001Z

Well the reason for my lack of posts if I haven’t really had anything to share.

I never did complete the layout I had done for Octobers Scrapology Blog so still have that to do. I did go to the crop at Tempsford and completed one layout which I’ll pop on at the end.

I’ve been using Office 2000 on my computer but when Lucy told me just how out of date it was compared to Office 2007 that she uses at school I decided it was time to upgrade – so I now have Office 2010 on all my home computers and am loving it.

I’m writing this blog update on my desktop using Windows Live Writer which once I’ve completed I can then update to my blog. Isn’t technology wonderful?

Lucy is doing really well at school and was picked to do an open evening speech just before the school half-term. She was back to school Monday and we are now on the countdown to her Birthday – she will be 13 in under 4 weeks, scary.

I have so much happening in November so I know I will have lots to share. A workshop at Sir Stampalot to learn how to use Copics, out for Dinner with a friend, My Birthday, To London to see Les Miserables, Lucy goes to London for a night with the school, Crop at Tempsford, Friends 50th, Tracie Hudson Workshop at 3 Jolly Scrappers, Lucy’s Birthday and a GoGo Workshop – so much fun I can’t wait

The following layout was a complete copy from the Sarah's Cards September Kit and the layout was designed by Cathy. The photo is my Lucy.

This is a card I made for a friends birthday

A weekend of Crafting

2010-10-11T08:00:00.002+01:00

Friday night was the 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop - and I had a lovely time despite Sharon not being able to attend. I hope she is now feeling better. I worked on a card and the entry into this months challenge at Scrapology - both still need further work which I will share soon.

Saturday was the Craftystash Crop at Tempsford. Had a really lovely day. Good company, good projects and the room was warm :-) The layouts were designed by Tracie Hudson and am pleased to report I completed both.

Have added this one into a frame and it is now hanging in my craft room.

Card with Serif Digi Scrapbooking

2010-10-10T14:34:00.002+01:00

I still love my paper crafting but I also love playing with the computer. A colleague at work has just had a new baby and I've made the following card using Serif Digital Scrapbooker.

A few items to share

2010-10-10T14:28:00.001+01:00

On the 26th September we, as a family, attended the joint christening of Paige & Alfie - here are the cards I made

Blog Candy Alert

2010-09-26T08:49:00.000+01:00

Fancy being in with a chance of winning this?

Then why not pop along here and try your luck - Hurry you only have until Friday 1st Oct to be in with a chance.

3 Jolly Scrappers All Day Crop - 19th September

2010-09-21T08:00:00.001+01:00

I was a very lucky girl this weekend as I managed to attend 2 crops. Sunday was spent in Brampton with the delightful Jo, Kim, Sara & Sharon plus all the other lovely ladies that attend. I was very well organised and managed to do 2 layouts (for me this is a lot for Sara not so impressive!!)

A new blog has started recently call Scrapology which runs a monthly challenge - When I saw Septembers I couldn't resist. The original layout they were lifting is a Craftystash layout taken from UKS. As I attend craftystash I had seen the layout before but as I wasn't attending at this time it was a layout I hadn't done. I would also like to say that the original layout was done by Stephanie Garbett. So here's my take on it.

I then used one of the Sarah's Cards kits to create the following. Am going to add some journalling but not sure what yet!

I also took part in the mini challenge but would like to add some bits to it before I show that one off.

The rest of my week consists of work, work, work so I'll be back soon xxx

not a lot

2010-09-20T16:30:00.000+01:00

has really happened since I last posted. Lots and lots of work which I'm pleased to report is going very well.

My niece turned 11 and here's the card I made

Saturday just gone was the Craftystash Crop at Tempsford. Had a fab time catching up with friends and managed to almost complete 2 layouts. This month they were designed by Stephanie Garbett. Here's the link to what Stephanies looked like. I think both layouts are lovely but the first one had just too many layers for me so here's my version.

The second layout I changed very little apart from omitting some branches.

Long Time No See - scroll down for updates

2010-09-17T07:52:00.002+01:00

will be back with blog update tomorrow but firstly wanted to tell you about a couple of exciting things happening over the next couple of months that I wouldn't want you to miss.

3 Jolly Scrappers are holding an all day crop on Sunday 19th September and would love to see you there - for further info and to book your place click here

Tracie Hudson is coming to teach an all day workshop on Sunday 21st November 2010 hosted by 3 Jolly Scrappers - for further info and to book your place click here

I just know that both days will be fabulous as both Jo and Kim are delightful and you know it will all be very well organised. There will of course be the shop at both events.

Let me know if you book, it would be lovely to see you.

I'll be back tomorrow with an update on me just in case you thought I'd disappeared forever

Jersey

2010-09-09T18:00:00.001+01:00

Marge Simpson Impression

Lucy doesn't want anyone to know we are her parents!!!

Ok I lied, the sun did shine a little

2010-09-09T08:00:00.002+01:00

Alfie is 1

I have a 13 year old niece!!

Here we are

2010-09-08T17:31:00.001+01:00

8th September!!! The nights are starting to draw in and it's getting cooler - I really hate this time of the year but to be honest the school holidays weren't very much better.

31st July I attended a class at LB Crafts having my first taste of Art Journalling - had seen so much of it around that I just wanted to have a try. Linda is fantastic and her classes are always fab but is Art Journalling for me? No but I do hope to do another of Linda's classes at sometime when they don't all get snapped up before I can blink

6th Aug I attended an 80's disco with my friend Sharon. The disco was organised by the lovely ladies at 3 Jolly Scrappers in aid of Help 4 Hero's. Sharon and I both declined to dress up but a lot of people did. Jo and Kim have since jumped out of a plane to also raise funds - I told you these ladies are special.

7th Aug was my first trip to the Stamp Addicts crop - had a really nice day just doing my own thing - if you'd like further details then contact the shop direct.

During the middle week of the school holidays Lucy attended Stageworks Summer School - these are run annually and Lucy has attended at least 6 of them. They rehearse a show and then perform to the parents at the end of the week. Even though Lucy is fast getting too old for it she still had a fab time and I think she will go again next year.

13th Aug was the monthly Friday night crop hosted by 3 Jolly Scrappers - didn't get a lot done other than chatting as I really seemed to have the devil in me that evening!!!! I promise to be better behaved this coming Friday.

15th Aug I was demonstrating at Stamperama Stevenage for Stamp Addicts - saw lots of familiar faces which was really really nice. I've said it before but this time I really do mean this will be my last demo - will explain why in a mo. Made quite a few samples for this but would you believe I didn't take any photos and the girls now have them at Stamp Addicts.

The last week of August was our family holiday to Jersey - I would like to say it was fabulous but I would be lying!!! The hotel was great, spending time with Lucy and Mark the best bit but the weather was awful. The first day we arrived we got soaked to our underwear!!! There was some sun but not enough for me. Jersey also wasn't really what I was expecting. I would return for a short break but not for a week. Next year will have to be somewhere good but then that will be down to Mark - it's his big 50 next year so I want him to say where he would really like to go.

Last Friday Lucy returned to school - she's now a year 8 and at least a good inch taller than me!! but she's still my little girl.

Now for my news - I have been approached by my work to increase the number of hours I work and start to learn the sales side of the business. I've been in my job 11 months now and am loving it - It feels like a job I had before I left London. I will continue doing my current job whilst also learning the new role hence why there will be no more demos. Any crafting time I have is going to be purely for pleasure without any deadlines.

I know this post is very word heavy but I do use it as my reference tool as well - tomorrow I promise will be photo heavy :-)

Morning

2010-07-29T10:56:00.000+01:00

Well schools out for summer and this week both Mark and I have also been on holiday. I popped to Barretts Saturday morning to see the lovely Amanda demoing. As this was my local demo store and the shop where I did my very first demo I saw some familiar faces. I was concerned that at some point I might finally miss demoing for Docrafts but I really don't, what I miss is the social interaction and meeting such lovely people. Saturday we also helped our niece celebrate her 13th Birthday - Sunday was meant to be the crop at Tempsford, but was cancelled at the last minute - Monday we went to the Cambridge Botanical Gardens, great place to visit, children have free entry and only £4 per adult. Tuesday was Marks birthday and our 14th Wedding Anniversary. My Mark loves to shop so a very nice day spent at Freeport Braintree. Even bumped into my friend from Bury St Edmunds which was another bonus. Wednesday was an inspirational trip to Sir Stampalot and then a very windy time at Nene Valley. Then the afternoon was spent creating something similar to what I had seen at Sir Stampalot - still quite a bit of work to do but will show once completed. Today is a more relaxing day and tomorrow well we just don't know what to do!!!! Saturday I'm off to LB Crafts to have my first dabble with Jornalling - could be interesting as I really am not very arty but am up for a challenge :-)

For anyone that might like to know I will be demoing for Stamp Addicts at the Stamperama Show on the 15th August - would be lovely to see you.

Going to leave you with just a few pics from my week - hope you're all having a fab summer as well xx

my Lucy

2010-07-18T11:10:00.000+01:00

is better at this than I am :-)

and another

2010-07-17T20:46:00.000+01:00

and my favourite so far

Stepping into the whelms of Digi

2010-07-17T14:55:00.000+01:00

Today I was supposed to be at the Craftystash Crop in Tempsford, however with it being cancelled at the last minute I have found myself at home. As I was due to go and play I thought I would spend the day still doing just that. Have wanted to play with my Digital Scrapbook Artist 2 for a while but just haven't been in the mood but today has been that day. It's still very early days and I have lots to learn but I have managed to do 2 pages. Please don't worry - I haven't lost my love for paper scrap booking but do feel with me taking so many pictures these days I do need to include some digi - I also seem to be happier journaling when I go digi. Here's what I've done today - not brilliant but a start.

Haven't said a lot

2010-07-17T11:19:00.000+01:00

because I haven't had a lot to say.

Since my last posting the weather became stunning and the hayfever really kicked in but despite that the summer still wins with me.

The stocktake has finally happened at work and boy, that was hard work, but all over now until next year.

Have helped my Auntie celebrate her 60th Birthday, Lucy has had a day trip to France, attended a friends 40th birthday party, which was fabulous, been to London Zoo (a lovely day out but I found the Zoo very sad) to spend time with friends and on Thursday of this week we attended the awards evening at Lucy's school so she could collect her award for acheivemnet in PE - and very proud parents are we.

Not a lot of crafting has taken place, due to the weather and not attending any of my normal crops - August is looking more promising. I will leave you with a card I made for my sister-in-law (inspiration from here) and a few odd pictures

Village Hall for Hire

2010-07-12T17:36:00.001+01:00

Just a quick pop by, will be back again soon but wanted to tell you about a hall that is for hire in Diddington that my sister-in-law has just taken over as lettings agent. I've just been to pay a visit and I have to say if I was still running a club it would be the perfect venue so with out further ado here are the details

DIDDINGTON VILLAGE HALL

Set in the heart of the beautiful village of Diddington. Located between Huntingdon and St Neots our village hall is available to rent for both residents of the village and non-residents too. It is suitable for Classes/Clubs/Meetings/Children’s parties and Wedding receptions. The floor space can be divided into two for smaller events.

There is a large fully fitted kitchen.

The hall offers both male and female toilets.

We offer competitive rates and off road parking.

The hall has direct access from the A1. We now have vacancies from the 1st August 2010 for both day and evening.

Contact details: glsherrington@aol.com 01480 810902

Eva is 12 - Cricut

2010-06-24T08:00:00.002+01:00

Fathers Day Card - Cricut

2010-06-22T18:00:00.003+01:00

Gills Birthday Card

2010-06-22T18:00:00.002+01:00

Not a lot

2010-06-21T20:30:00.001+01:00

to report.

Have been able to crochet since I was little (knitting was always too slow for me) but hadn't made anything since I made Lucy's baby blanket and have never made flowers so I treated myself to the Lets Craft Crochet issue and voila a flower has been created - think I may need to do some more

Will share the cards I've made over the next few days

HELLO

2010-06-15T16:40:00.000+01:00

What a wonderful day - the sun is shining and I feel awake which is due to the fact that last night I fell asleep at 7pm and didn't wake until this morning :-) Should do that more often as has really recharged my batteries.

Last Friday night I attended the 3 Jolly Scrappers Monthly crop - didn't do a lot other than catch up with my lovely friend Sharon, however did make the following card.

Saturday and Sunday was the last Scrapping Angels Retreat and what a good time I had - Saturday I did 3 layout classes - Anna Bowkis, Sandie Vincent & Michelle Jackson Mogford. Sunday was a layout by Tracie Hudson and then a mini book by Anna Bowkis and a flag album by Sandie Vincent. It was Sandie's first retreat as a teacher and I think she excelled herself and I'm already looking forward to being taught by her again. I have done work by all the other teachers before and loved all of the projects this weekend. I often express myself if I don't like something but I know it's only my own personal take and I really never intend to offend, honest. I will post pics just as soon as I finish anything, some are nearly finished but I just want to give them the once over and some still have quite a lot to do on them.

3 Jolly Scrappers attended with their shop, which is always a bonus (2 nicer ladies you couldn't wish to meet) - spent a few pennies and am happy to learn they are going to be running more all day workshops - will post dates and details as soon as I know them and I've got my own place safely booked :-) Did manage to win 5 raffle prizes over the weekend!!!

Sunday the lovely Sara also attended which made the day even more fun. I met lots of lovely new ladies, some I didn't get the names for but do hope our paths cross again especially Emma and Solance. Now Solance has her own shop which is based down in Swindon where Sandie does regular workshops for her. The shop is called Sparkle Dreams and they will be running their own retreat in Oct 2011 - I'm already booked onto another retreat that month, but with lots of time to save, I'm hoping to do both. Will post more details when I have them.

Still busy sorting at work as now just over a week to our stock take - Am looking forward to this weekend as currently have nothing planned other than spending time with my lovely family and helping Mark enjoy his day as he does make such a good job at being a Dad xx

Auntie is 60

2010-06-08T09:00:00.002+01:00

Inspired by a project in Making Cards Magazine - Papers Kaisercraft

A Card for Marks Dad

2010-06-07T09:00:00.002+01:00

Card cut on the Cricut using Make the Cut Software - papers from Making Cards Magazine - Folded Shirts are £10 notes.

Samples

2010-06-06T12:19:00.000+01:00

Demo at Stamp Addicts 22nd May 2010 using Crafts Too Embossing Folders, Nellie Snellen Floral Punches and Nellie Snellen Multi Frame Dies (which I fell in love with) All items available from Stamp Addicts, Kempston

You thought I wouldn't be back...............................

2010-06-05T14:10:00.002+01:00

well I am.

Where have I been? Busy with life. Hours at work have been increased to 25 per week until the end of June (stocktake) and that has really made a difference. Can't wait for them to get back down to 20.

Here's just a summary of some of the things I've been up to

5th May had a visit from the lovely Liz (had to put that as I know she reads!!!) to help her with the decision to go for a cricut - I soon helped her make that decision. I still LOVE my cricut and really hope to have more time soon to do more with it.

8th May I helped Stamp Addicts out for the day at the Hatfield Living Crafts show. A very cold day but lots of fun.

14th May - The 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop @ Brampton - not very motivated and very tired so didn't last the whole evening but am looking forward to this Fridays crop.

15th May - Craftystash Crop @ Tempsford - had a really good day doing 2 layouts designed by Tracie Hudson which I loved.

22nd May I was demoing at the Stamp Addicts demo day - I got to sit next to my fab mate Jo and there were 9 demonstrators in total - visit their blog for a look at some of what was created that day.

23rd May attended the Shannon Express Dress Rehearsal - my Mark sings Barbershop, not sure if I've mentioned this before.

30th May Lucy and I travelled to Harrogate to meet up with Mark who had travelled up on the Friday to compete in the Annual Barbershop Convention - 37 chorus's took part and Mark's came 7th which they are all really pleased with.

31st May we travelled as a family to The Lake District and what a fab break we had - I hadn't realised just how much my batteries had needed recharging. Visited Hill Top where Beatrix Potter once lived. Went on a boat on Ullswater, shopped in Grasmere, swam every day at the hotel - fabulous time had by all. Returned home Thursday and the realxing has just continued (apart from the holiday washing & ironing)

June is going to be another busy month with the 3 Jolly Scrappers crop on the 11th, Scrapping Angels retreat on the 12th/13th, Craftystash Crop on the 19th, Fathers Day 20th, Stocktaking 26th and a family get together on the 27th!!!!!!!!!!!! so if I don't appear again you know why - I've collapsed up a corner with a bottle of Merlot!!!!!! I wish hehe!!

Oh I nearly forgot, I'm also fitting in a photograpy online course run by Cheryl Johnson as I really do want to take my DSLR off Auto

Not many photos in this post but am going to schedule more to load over the coming week so you have something to look at and you know I haven't given up crafting altogether.

Well, that's that month nearly done!!!

2010-04-27T08:54:00.001+01:00

Where is the time flying to - it's May on Saturday - no wonder I leave such a big gap between blogs - I don't realise how much time has passed!!!

April has been a funny month - due to the Icelandic Volcanic eruption much that I had planned has been cancelled. I was due to attend the Donna Downey workshop at Your Touch of Craft but Donna found herself stuck in Germany and the Scrapping Angels retreat was cancelled as Anna found herself stuck in Florida and is still not back - she's due home today. The one good thing is both events are being rescheduled so I still have them to look forward to.

Due to the Donna Downey being cancelled Sara & myself managed to get ourselves booked into the 3 Jolly Scrappers all day crop at Brampton - We both had a fabulous time and are looking forward to attending the next one. Date yet to be announced.

I can confirm I will be demoing for Stamp Addicts Kempston on 22nd May and will post some sneaky peeks soon.

Here are a few things I've made recently - I'll be back soon xx

A couple of Birthday cards for friends

Tracy Hudson Kit Layout

April Craftystash kit - still have another layout to do - couldn't attend crop on the day but popped in and grabbed a kit - I love the colours

At 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop we got some product to create a layout - on the day there was a competition but you know me I couldn't come up with it that quick so I finished it at home - I love what I did with this photo in Photoshop Elements.

Neglected......................

2010-04-10T22:34:00.000+01:00

but not forgotten

Life has been full of such positives lately and so busy that I just haven't had the time to sit and catch up with you all, so here goes.

Since my last proper post back in March 2 very special people are back in our lives, my brother and his wife. Like many families disputes and differences get in the way and sometimes it's hard to find a way back but I'm so pleased that thanks to facebook my SIL got in touch and now the past is well and truly behind us. I now have even more people to scrapbook - I'm sure they will make an appearance on a page very soon.

I've taken my MIL to see the Calendar Girls at MK Theatre - very fuuny and a great way to spend an afternoon.

Had a family lunch out to celebreate my MIL's birthday.

Took Lucy to the Hobbycraft show at the NEC - it was great to catch up with lots of people who I know in the crafting world and it looks like I will be coming out of demoing retirement on 22nd May to demonstrate at the demo day for Stamp Addicts Kempston - it would be lovely to see you there.

I've been to the Southoe Crop and will have a couple of layouts to share real soon (you know me and titles!!!)

We then had a lovely Easter weekend which ended with us going to see Nanny McPhee and the big bang - which I would highly recommend for the whole family.

I'm going to finish tonight with a few cards I've made for family and friends and will be back soon xx

3 Jolly Scrappers Crop

2010-03-30T08:27:00.001+01:00

As I have mentioned before I attend the 3 Jolly Scrappers crop in Brampton once a month - well in April they are hosting an all day crop on 18th April - why not pop over to their web site and have a nosey. I unfortunately can't make it as am already attending the Donna Downey workshop hosted by Your Touch of Craft.

I have been crafting and will be back soon with pics - have a good day

Back again

2010-03-16T17:03:00.001Z

for another natter :-)

Friday night was the 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop in Brampton - had a really good evening with some lovely people including my friend Sharon. Managed to complete the following layout - all it needs now is a title - I was very kindlt allowed to use the new punch from Stampin Up :-)

Saturday was Amanda's birthday and this is the card I made for her using the free stamp off the Craft Stamper Magazine which I really like

The following 2 layouts were done at the Craftystash Crop Tempsford on Saturday designed by Michelle Jackson Mogford - I wasn't sure about them to start with but now love them - they are so not me

Have also had to make a card for Mark's mums birthday which is this coming Friday - I know she won't be on here so save to post

Cricut

2010-03-12T08:46:00.000Z

Have just updated the Cricut Places link on the side bar - some really great places - if you know of any then please share.

Here's the card I've made for Mark's mum for Mothers Day - need to make another as it is also her birthday next Friday. I know she won't see it on here as she won't go anywhere near a computer!!

Hi

2010-03-10T17:53:00.001Z

no I haven't vanished off the face of this earth but just been taking some time out. Stamperama Stevenage went really well - and I saw lots of familiar faces which was really nice. Had one lady argue with me that something I had made hadn't been embossed but was made of metal!!! those around at the time found this very funny as I kept saying it wasn't and surely I should know as I had made it!!

I got to walk the show which was really nice but didn't buy a lot but gots lots of inspiration - saw Hels doing things with the melt pot making faux porcelain flowers which I loved. Mark had got me a melt pot for Christmas so I've been having a little dabble - will show some results soon but visit Hels blog to see what I mean. I haven't had any UTEE so have been using just clear embossing powder which does work!

Have been taking some time to just sit and veg in the evenings which has been really nice - no more crafting deadlines - have made a card for a friend and still have a few to make but am not going to stress about them. I think sometimes for me my crafting is like singing - I have all these lovely songs being sung in my head but when I open my mouth to sing I can't!! My head is also full of crafting ideas but when I go to put them on paper they just don't work - I sometimes just try too hard and think it's time to accept that even though I like to look at really arty things when it comes to my own I should keep it simple. So here's a simple card that I made for my lovely friend Karen.

Last Saturday we had our first family trip of the year to the Science Museum - a really great day out - we took the car to Cockfosters (just a £1 for parking the whole day) and jumped on a tube to South Kensington. Took my beloved camera and this is a shot that Lucy took of me - I normally don't photograph well but just love this photo.

Now I'm not working Saturday's we are planning a lot more trips. Have lots of social things coming up with the first this coming Friday at the 3 Jolly Scrappers crop - I'm really looking forward to the evening as will be able to catch up with my buddie Sharon. Saturday is the Craftystash Crop at Tempsford and Sunday is Mothers Day when I am going to the Pictures to see Alice with Lucy :-) I'll be back again soon Hugs xx

This really could be the last demo I ever do......................

2010-02-24T16:51:00.000Z

The day of the actual demo, I love - I love meeting new people and people I've met before - I love to inspire others to have a go and find the enjoyment that I get from crafting. I love to share whatever knowledge I have but the preperation before, now that's another story - I put sooooooooo much pressure on myself and worry so much that people aren't going to like what I've done that I really have decided my nerves just can't take it anymore and I also don't think those closest to me can take much more either!!! So this Sunday I am demoing on behalf of Stamp Addicts at their Stamperama show - it would be lovely to see you and just to wet your appetitie here are a few sneak peeks :-) I will be playing (oops working) with Judikin Stamps, Amazing Glaze and Embossing Powders. Come say hello if you are at the show.

I have this last week been offered further demo work with a local store - I was extremely flattered to be asked but have said NO!!!

Valentines

2010-02-20T18:24:00.000Z

Mine to Mark

Ours to Lucy

Lucys to Us

Mark to Me

Mens Cards

2010-02-20T18:14:00.000Z

I always struggle with these as I think I try to over complicate things however the lovely Julie really did inspire me to keep it more simple and here is my take on one of her cards which I made for a good friend of mine.

2010-02-20T18:05:00.000Z

Completed this layout last Saturday at the Craftystash Crop - this one was designed by Tracie Hudson - still have a further 2 layouts to complete

2010-02-20T17:55:00.002Z

The following 2 layouts were designed by Anna Bowkis and completed at the Southoe crop back in January. The second one needs something else but I can't decide what!

2010-02-20T17:43:00.000Z

another kit purchased from Craftystash - this time designed by Michelle Jackson-Mogford - the mermaids are supposed to move but as it's going to be in a plastic folder I haven't done this, I've also added a photo of Lucy. I started this layout at the Southoe Crop and finished it at the 3 Jolly Scrappers crop - I have another layout to complete from this kit.

Lots to share

2010-02-20T17:31:00.001Z

I've done quite a few bits of late - will upload in small bits

This first layout was designed by Tracie Hudson from a kit a purchased at Craftystash Crop last week. Still have another layout and mini book to do.

Snow, No snow

2010-02-10T22:24:00.001Z

That's what it's been like here today, one minute snow the next sunshine but very cold............ I just hope it goes away and never comes back, I'm fed up with having to put so many layers on for work.

Went to Stamp Addicts today and can confirm that I will be demonstrating for them at Stamperama Stevenage on 28th February using some Judikins rubber stamps - will get cracking with samples next week and will post a few sneaky peeks!!

Gosh

2010-02-09T20:22:00.001Z

Tuesday already, where does the time go? The Cricut Design studio workshop went really well on Saturday @ Stamp Addicts despite it being quite difficult to gauge it for all levels but I'm hoping people got something from it. Here are a few samples that I made for the day.

I got the floral border from here

You can download the backpack from here

and this Love album I designed myself.

I thought Saturday was going to be my last paid craft job however that doesn't now seem to be the case but will give more details soon.................

Spent a lot of time tidying again at the weekend and the craft room is now 99% complete.

Sunday we went to see Avatar in 3D...............WOW it was awsome and if you haven't you really must - and that's despite suffering with motion sickness when the film started!!!

More snow has been trying to fall but so far nothing of any signifigance, so fingers crossed we will get no more.

A busy week ahead - tomorrow a meeting about craft, Thursday I collect my new glasses (I'm giving bifocals a go) Friday is the 3 Jolly Scrappers Crop, Saturday is the Craftystash crop, Saturday evening I'm going to watch Mark perform in his barbershop concert and then Sunday is a day of Luv............... Will have cards to share at the weekend showing some of the wonderful things you can do with Make the Cut.