Doodles & Scraps of Me

The CHA 2012 Previews .....

2012-01-24T01:18:00.000Z

Coming in thick & fast now, I just love looking through them to see what's new & going to be hot for the next 6 months. I am always on the look out for Tim Holtz launches, because there is always something there to wet the appetite. Take a look at his blog HERE for sneeky peeks of what he is launching this time around. I am particularly interested in his Distress Pens, complete with a transforming white one!

~*~ Jane ~*~

Quick Card for ......

2012-01-22T20:14:00.000Z

Stella Owen Hibbert's Sketch Challenge in The Craft Cupboard's Show & Tell group over on facebook!

I'm not completely sure I like it, I'm not used to skimping on the embellishments. For this sketch we were limited to only adding 3 flowers & MUST include the 3 sentiments, I felt a bit daunted by the simplicity of it. So I started off with a bold background, then that in turn had me scratching my head. In hindsight, I wish I had inked the edges of the dies cuts, but that's what a challenge is all about, so well done Stella!

If you would like to take part in Stella's Sketch Challenge yourself, feel free to give it a try & then pop over to The Craft Cupboard blog & link back to your cards page, so that we can view it, we would love to see it & I'm sure that you will do better than me!!

~*~ Jane ~*~

I just wanted to say ....

2012-01-12T18:21:00.002Z

\~/ Thank you ScrapaGoGo \~/

I am now able to buy your kits again, finances have been much tighter since this stupid Arthritis took a turn for the worse, so had to cancel my subscription! Now, you have just released your 'Essentially GoGo' kits, same great value, still packed high with quality craft yummies, but at a lower price .....

That's not all you get for the £14.00 with GoGo, oh no there is so much more on offer too, included in the price your also entitled to join in with the fun over at The Clubhouse too, along with subscription discount if you choose to attend one of the GoGo Getaways I have attended one of these myself & I can highly recommend it, your treated like a craft princess for the whole weekend. Oh & there's more in the form of Tutorials by the amazing GoGo Girls DT, challenges, prompts & more ......

So what will I get in my yellow box each month?

5 12x12 Quality Papers

3 12x12 Bazzill Cardstock

1 Alphabet

1 Bespoke Embellishment Pack

1 Exclusive Stamp

1 Sheet Exclusive Hybrids

1 Idea Booklet

I couldn't resist this fab deal so, I signed up this afternoon ;)

Just got to wait for February now to start looking out for the postie with my Bright Yellow Box of goodies ♥ ♥ ♥

~*~ Jane ~*~

I guess it's time ....

2012-01-12T14:19:00.002Z

To get rid of the Christmas header on the blog

I'm a little sad to see it go, so think I will keep it to use again later on this year

~*~ Jane ~*~

As The Year Winds Down....

2011-12-31T10:00:00.000Z

I pause to think over the year just gone by & am counting my blessings for many things, which include gaining another grandchild, a 'pink one' Yasmin Millie Deedee, born to my youngest son Paul & his lovely lady Leona & a sister for Mason! We also celebrated my father's 80th Birthday which allowed extended family members to catch up & see how thier families have grown too!

There were also sad moments along the way, back in March my dear Mother had a fall at home & left her with a nasty break to her ankle which required surgery. Then she contracted the dreaded MRSA bug, she still hasn't healed now & still needs regular dressings!

My pain levels have been through the roof this past year & my mobility has definately worsened. I am lucky that I am a patient of the reknowned Royal Mineral Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases in Bath, where I spent 9 days as an in patient in October! There I was told that my Ankylosing Spondylosis is now very active, so I am due to receive a new medication in the New Year, there have been some positive feedback from this new drug, my consulting team are quite positive that it will help me! On a positive note I met some wonderful people, fellow patients with a whole range of rheumatic conditions, friendships that are continuing now that I am back home. It's helpful to get this support from others that really do understand why I am like I am & not having to explain myself all the time or apologise that I am unable to manage something or keep an a appointment or a date!

I started The Craft Cupboard on Facebook, a group where fellow crafters could sell on thier unwanted craft supplies, I had no idea how popular it would be, but apart from a few teething troubles, it has gone from strength to strength, so much so that I ended up creating a second group, to allow the members to be able to show what they have made, share knowledge & tips & techniques, along with challenges, inspiration station for those days when craft block sets in! I then noticed that some members liked to sell thier handmade goods, so a third group was created to allow this to take place. This means that The Craft Cupboard is now a Trilogy .... I think I will leave it there though, because I couldn't cope with anymore, even with my happy band of admin members!

My middle son Steve has just turned his childhood dream into reality, by qualifying as a Fire Fighter, my other oldest son was asked to step up as Head Chef for The Castle Hotel in Castle Coombe & my youngest son has managed to get himself a job after some years of unemployment. I am very proud of all of them, in fact all four of my lads!

My partner Alex's son left school this year & is now at college studying engineering & his 2 younger daughters are growing up fast.

I spent a very happy Christmas weekend at the home of my oldest sons Kevin (he's a twin) & his lovely wife Donna (I'm convinced she is a direct decendant of Mother Nature herself) & family!
I can't remember the last time I saw so much fabulous food & drink under one roof,certainly not since my 4 sons grew up & left home, it was so special to be sat watching my grandsons opening thier gifts from Santa ;)

I will see the year out at home, with Alex & his two daughters who are staying with us for the week, we will be playing games, watch a nice film & just be content to have survived another year!

I wonder what next year holds for me?
Whatever it is, I will do my best to make the most of it & stay as happy & mobile as I am able to do, share both laughs & tears & be thankful for my family, friends.

Happy New Year to you all

Woman's Prayer

2011-12-07T21:30:00.001Z

Lord, Before I lay me down to sleep,

I pray for a man, who’s not a creep, but, one who is handsome, smart and strong

and whose willy will be, thick and long.

One who thinks before he speaks, when promises to call, he won’t wait weeks.

I pray that he's gainfully employed, so when I spend his cash, he won’t be annoyed.

Pulls out my chair and opens my door, massages my back and begs to do more.

Oh! Send me a man who will make love to my mind, knows just what to say, when I ask

"How big’s my behind?"

One who’ll make love till my body’s a twitchin’, in the hall, the loo, the garden and kitchen!

I pray that this man will love me no end, and never attempt to shag my best friend.

So as I kneel here and pray by my bed, I look at the dickhead you sent me instead...

By Linda Parsons

~*~

Jane

Joanna Sheen & Christmas Wishes

2011-12-01T19:58:00.001Z

Joanna Sheen now has a challenge blog, it will run monthly challenges & the first one was uploaded today. I have taken a look at her Design Team & it has loads of very talented crafters, including Paula Holifield & Susannah Mcmanus Kelly who are also members of my Facebook groups

The Craft Cupboard Trilogy

This months theme is *Christmas Wishes*

Any form of papercraft is accepted as long as it fits the theme!

You can use any image you like, but if you use a Joanna Sheen image then you will automatically get 2 entries in the challenge. The winner will be decided using Random.org & the winner will receive a £30.00 voucher to spend in Joanna Sheen's online store!

The DT will also pick their top 3 makes and we will also give one of you the opportunity to join us in our fab Guest Designer spot.

There are a few rules, so please visit the challenge blog HERE read them & enter for your chance to win!

~*~

Jane

The Craft Cupboard Trilogy

2011-11-30T18:32:00.001Z

The Craft Cupboard Story

Some months ago, I set up a private group on Facebook, for fellow crafters to sell their unloved craft materials & equipment. The maximum number of members at anyone time is 250, so it's small enough to get to know a lot of the members, especially the regulars that come in at least once a day. They come in to sell & buy, but also for the chatter with like minded people! When I started the group, I only ever expected to have the one. However, after it had been open for a while, it became obvious that there was a growing need to offer somewhere for this friendly group to showcase what they made. We need the feed on the group to keep flowing, so that members can readily see what is on offer to buy & sell & the general chatter & members were by this time wanting to show each other what they had made, or show how something is used on their projects etc.

So, the second Cupboard group was created & only open to members of the original group. It's a very busy & fun group, that offers support, tips & tutorials, along with where to buy, as well as linking to outside soarces etc. something that's not allowed in the Cupboard. This second group is called the Craft Cupboard Show & Tell, it's a lot more relaxed with fewer rules & regulations. Oh, & there is so much talent in there, just when you have finished looking at one amazing item, another equally brilliant piece appears on the feed.

The Show & Tell group also has a monthly prize challenge, where the winner is chosen by the members themselves, the only time that admin step in, is if there is a draw, we then have to choose the winner!
Thank goodness, so far we haven't had to step in, because it would be such a hard choice.

Then, we began to notice that members were starting to ask if something was for sale. This prompted myself & my admin team wondering how to take things forward? Members are only allowed to sell craft materials in the Craft Cupboard & no selling is allowed in the Show & Tell. That's when Tracey on of my senior admin members rang me to suggest opening a third group, so after a lot communication with my admin, we put it forward to the members themselves to see if the need was out there?
It turned out that many of the Cupboard group members already sold things that they create. So, after a lot of preparing & setting up of rules, plus working out how we should run this third group, TCC Marketplace was born.

The TCC Marketplace is an open group. This mean's that anyone on Facebook can find us & can apply to join, whether they are there to sell, buy or just look at what's on offer & everyone is welcome.

I have to admit to being very proud of
The Craft Cupboard Trilogy

~*~

Jane :) x

Fair Ground Stamp Set for Sale

2011-11-25T17:16:00.001Z

Please Note, this is just one set.... I chose to upload both because of the position of the flash

This fantastic set of stamps by Club Scrap is beautiful, I bought it because I love the images, but my style of craft has changed dramatically, so they are new & unused. I am selling no because (1) I am in need of money for Christmas & equally importantly (2) I trying my best not to hoard things, just because I love them & no intention of using them!
******

Ideally I would like £25.00 for the set, but am open to offers.

Payments via PayPal preferred

The price includes Postage & Packaging & PayPal Fees

******NOW SOLD******

thank you

First one under my belt

2011-09-17T20:33:00.003+01:00

The first Christmas card I have made this year, all it needs is the greeting, I will add that when I decide who get's it. Made using Moreheads die cut decoupage, freebie papers from last months Cards & Papercraft magazine, & a Nestie Die, Glamour Dust & Stars that I bought from lovely members of The Craft Cupboard, my group on Facebook & Ribbon from my ribbon box!

thanks for visiting my blog
toodle pip
-x-

The Miners Woe

2011-09-17T13:10:00.000+01:00

There's a cry in the valleys,
Tears in the West,
Mourning the heroes that wear the pit vest,
Underground grafters always put in a shift,
Below the hillside in the deep dark drift,
They're not coming home to their children their wives...
The mine once again takes cherished lives....

♥ R.I.P the 4 Welsh Miners who lost their lives ♥

Back to school .... hoorah

2011-08-17T10:55:00.002+01:00

Twas the night before school started, when all through the town,
the parents were cheering...It was a riotous sound!
By 8, kids were washed and tucked into bed...
Where memories of homework filled them with dread!
New pencils, new folders, new notebooks too!
New teachers, new friends... Their anxiety grew!
The parents just giggled when they learned of this fright
- and shouted upstairs: Go to bed. its a school night!

These aren't my words, they were being passed around on facebook! I thought you might enjoy them, I know I did & brought back many memories of when my 4 sons were still at school :)

Thanks for dropping by

Jane ~ xXx

Simple Card

2011-08-16T19:51:00.005+01:00

This card looks so much nicer in real life, I just can't get the editing on it quite right today & the light for taking photo's is not good either.
I still need so much practice with my promakers, but I am beginning to get the hang of the blending of them.
For this card I have used Basic Grey Papers ~ sweet threads range
plus paper & lace from my odds box.
Flowers from Wild Orchid Crafts
Gems & Crystal Pin from my Duck Pond Craft Kit
Nestie & Promarkers
I am entering this card in the the I <3 Promarkers Challenge

Thanks for dropping by
Jane ~ xXx

My August Blooms Kit

2011-08-14T14:09:00.003+01:00

Lots of yummies arrived on my doorstep a few days ago, in the form of my august blooms kit from Karen owner of Duck Pond Crafts
The blooms kit always comes delivered in a pretty chiffon bag & when you open it all the lovely blooms & ribbons come tumbling out. Karen pops the pins, charms, buttons & gems in a little cellophane bags to prevent them from damaging the other more delicate contents!
As you can see the August kit is made up of pinks, blues, black & creams .... so pretty!
In the cello bag this month you will find buttons, crystal topped pins, gems, charms & dew drops, I am really looking forward to using the kit. The blooms kit retails at £11.00 incl P&P
Karen also produces cardmaking kits too & stocks a large range of charms, she prides herself on trying to find charms & other items for her kits, that are just that little bit different.

A little card for a friend

2011-08-09T23:32:00.003+01:00

At last I am wanting to craft again, I made this little card for a friend. I have also discovered promarkers & am slowly building buying them & hope to have the complete set soon. I am OK with just colouring with them, but need a lot of practice with the blending. So, I think this image still looks a little flat ... Still, I had fun making the card & there was a lot of love put into it too & that's the main thing, plus it brought a smile to it's new owner :)

Someone gifted me the stamped image, so I don't know the name of the stamp, but I used Basic Grey papers & flowers purchased from Wild Orchid Crafts I used Stickles for the wings & of coarse nesties to cut out the circles!

Thanks for dropping by
Jx

Meet my new Grandaughter

2011-07-02T12:09:00.005+01:00

This is Yasmin, isn't she just the cutest little darling ever.
Welcome to the family princess, you have your big brother Mason to protect you, a Mummy & Daddy to comfort, treasure & guide you, so many lovely cousins to play with & huge adoring family to love you.
Yasmin you have the whole world to explore in time & Nanny Jane knows that you & Mason will conquer it together
<3 <3 <3

End of an Era for Wiltshire

2011-07-01T13:40:00.004+01:00

I had a few tears this morning :( being silly I know but, it's always been there, all my life & part of the Wiltshire sky, everyone knew Fat Albert, as they were fondly known as round these parts. .... Yes, I am talking about the closure of RAF Lyneham Wiltshire ... Fat Albert is the Hurcules aircraft that has always supported the Troops & Repatriations as well as Relief Aide air drops around the world.
Staff & personel are moving to RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, as part of the MOD cuts. The Wiltshire skys just won't be the same anymore!

When I moved back to Wiltshire 2yrs ago after a 10yr break, I saw a Hercules in the sky as I came off the M4 motorway & instantly knew I was home, now all that will be gone.
I have just seen 4 of the planes fly past now, that's what brought the tear to my eye. What a spendid sight it was, as they reached the open fields over the road from my bungalow, they banked, all 4 of them turning on thier side together ..... wonderful.!!!
You will all probably be familiar with the the repatriation ceremonies, with all the crowds come out to pay thier respect, as the funeral cars pass through Wooton Bassett, all that will now stop, because the repatriations will take place in Oxfordshire. However, I am proud that the town of Wootton Bassett now has Royal status.
Sorry if this is boring, but I was born & bred here in Wiltshire & my children & grandchildren, so Lyneham & the Hercules aircraft are part of me & I will miss them along with so many other people!

Where were you then..?

2011-06-24T20:55:00.000+01:00

Where Were You When?

Where were you, when the world stopped turning that September day?

Out in the yard with your wife and children

Working on some stage in LA

Did you stand there in shock at the site of

That black smoke rising against that blue sky

Did you shout out in anger

In fear for your neighbour

Or did you just sit down and cry

Did you weep for the children

Who lost their dear loved ones

And pray for the ones who don't know

Did you rejoice for the people who walked from the rubble

And sob for the ones left below

Did you burst out in pride

For the red white and blue

The heroes who died just doing what they do

Did you look up to heaven for some kind of answer

And look at yourself to what really matters

I'm just a singer of simple songs

I'm not a real political man

I watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love.

Where were you, when the world stopped turning that September day?

Teaching a class full of innocent children

Driving down some cold interstate

Did you feel guilty cause you're a survivor

In a crowded room did you feel alone

Did you call up your mother and tell her you love her

Did you dust off that bible at home

Did you open your eyes and hope it never happened

Close your eyes and not go to sleep

Did you notice the sunset the first time in ages

Speak with some stranger on the street

Did you lay down at night and think of tomorrow

Go out and buy you a gun

Did you turn off that violent old movie you're watching

And turn on "I Love Lucy" reruns

Did you go to a church and hold hands with some stranger

Stand in line and give your own blood

Did you just stay home and cling tight to your family

Thank God you had somebody to love

I'm just a singer of simple songs

I'm not a real political manI watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is loveI'm just a singer of simple songs

I'm not a real political manI watch CNN but I'm not sure I can tell you

The difference in Iraq and Iran

But I know Jesus and I talk to God

And I remember this from when I was young

Faith hope and love are some good things he gave us

And the greatest is love

The greatest is love

Where were you when the world stopped turning that September day

song and lyrics by Alan Jackson

Job Vacancy - Craft Stamper Magazine

2011-06-22T11:27:00.001+01:00

Job Vacancy - Assistant Editor
Traplet Publications is seeking an assistant editor to work on Craft Stamper magazine and any of our other papercraft-related publications.

Applicants must be passionate about papercrafting and demonstrate sound knowledge of rubber stamping, as well as other papercraft disciplines such as cardmaking, scrapbooking and altered art. You should also have an excellent command of the English language, good attention to detail and be able to work under pressure and to deadlines.

Ideally the appointed candidate will work full time (37 hours per week), based in our offices in Malvern, Worcestershire. However, for the right candidate we may consider a job-share (18.5 hours) appointment and/or some limited home-working provision.

Salary negotiable depending on skills and experience.

Please apply in writing, enclosing a CV and a covering letter stating your suitability for the post, to katy.fox@traplet.com or Craft Stamper Magazine, Traplet Publications, Traplet House, Pendragon Close, Malvern WR14 1GA.

My Daily Life with Fibromyalgia

2011-04-03T20:10:00.001+01:00

It is difficult to put into words what I go through each day, so here is a copy of a letter that was written for the purpose of letting others know what it is like;

LOVE LETTER TO NORMALS

by Claudia Marek

Here is my letter written to explain to family and friends what it’s like to have fibromyalgia. It won’t work miracles: it’s hard to understand our illness from the outside looking in. But it is a start and can open the door to important dialogues. You are all welcome to use it, either as is, or as a basis for writing your own. Remember that you have a responsibility to tell those close to you what is wrong and communicate as clearly as you can how you feel and what you need. The best time to do that is when you are not upset!

Fibromyalgia isn’t all in my head, and it isn’t contagious. It doesn’t turn into anything serious and nobody ever died from fibromyalgia (thought they might have wished they could on really awful days!!) If you want to read articles or books about fibromyalgia I can show you some that I think are good. If you just want to learn as we go along, that’s fine too. This is definitely going to be a process. The first step is for you to believe that there is an illness called fibromyalgia and that I have it. This may sound simple, but when you hear about my symptoms I don’t want you to think I’m making this all up as I go along.

Fibromyalgia is a high maintenance condition with lots and lots of different kinds of symptoms. There’s no way to just take a pill to make it go away, even for a little while. Sometimes a certain medication can make some of my symptoms more bearable. That’s about the best I can hope for. Other times I may take a lot of medication and still won’t feel any better. That’s just the way it goes. I can’t control how often I feel good or when I’m going to feel terrible. Lots of people have been cutting new drugs advertisements out of magazines for me and I appreciate the thought, but I’ve seen them too. Look at the list of side effects and the few symptoms they help in return. Even in the best studies those expensive compounds didn’t help over half the people who tried them. No matter how happy the people in the pictures look, there’s still no miracle drug available.

There’s no cure for fibromyalgia and it won’t go away. If I am functioning normally, I am having a good day. This doesn’t mean I’m getting better — I suffer from chronic pain and fatigue for which there is no cure. I can have good days, several good weeks or even months. But a good morning can suddenly turn into a terrible afternoon. I get a feeling like someone has pulled out a plug and all my energy has just run out of my body. I might get more irritable before these flares, and suddenly get more sensitive to noise or just collapse from deadening fatigue. Weather changes can have a big effect on how I feel. Other times there may be no warning, I may just suddenly feel awful. I can’t warn you when this is likely to happen because there isn’t any way for me to know. Sometimes this is a real spoiler and I’m sorry. The sadness I feel for what my illness does to those around me is more than I can easily describe. You may remember me as a light-hearted fun loving person — and it hurts me that I am no longer what I was.

Fibromyalgics have a different kind of pain that is hard to treat. It is not caused by inflammation like an injury. It is not a constant ache in one place like a broken bone. It moves around my body daily and hourly and changes in severity and type. Sometimes it is dull and sometimes it is cramping or prickly. Sometimes it’s jabbing and excruciating. If Eskimos have a hundred words for snow, fibromyalgics should have a hundred words for pain. Sometimes I just hurt all over like I’ve been beaten up or run over by a truck. Sometimes I feel too tired to lift up my arm.

Besides pain, I have muscle stiffness which is worse in the morning and evenings. Sometimes when I get up out of a chair I feel like I am ninety years old. I may have to ask you to help me up. I’m creaky and I’m klutzy. I trip over things no one can see, and I bump into the person I am walking with and I drop things and spill things because my fingers are stiff and my coordination is off. I just don’t seem to connect the way I should. Hand-eye, foot-eye coordination, it’s all off. I walk slowly up and down stairs because I’m stiff and I’m afraid I might fall. When there’s no railing to hold on to, it’s terrifying.

Because I feel bad most of the time, I am always pushing myself, and sometimes I just push myself too hard. When I do this, I pay the price. Sometimes I can summon the strength to do something special but I will usually have to rest for a few days afterwards because my body can only make so much energy. I pay a big price for overdoing it, but sometimes I have to. I know it’s hard for you to understand why I can do one thing and not another. It’s important for you to believe me, and trust me about this. My limitations, like my pain and my other symptoms are invisible, but they are real.

Another symptom I have is problems with memory and concentration which is called fibrofog. Short-term memory is the worst! I am constantly looking for things. I have no idea where I put down my purse, and I walk into rooms and have no idea why. Casualties are my keys which are always lost, my list of errands, which I write up and leave on the counter when I go out. Even if I put notes around to remind myself of important things, I’m still liable to forget them. Don’t worry, this is normal for fibromyalgics. Most of us are frightened that we are getting Alzheimer’s. New kinds of brain scans have actually documented differences in our brains.

I mentioned my sensitivities earlier and I need to talk about them again. It’s more like an intolerance to everything. Noise, especially certain noises like the television or shrill noises can make me jittery and anxious. Smells like fish or some chemicals, or fragrances or perfume can give me headaches and nausea. I also have a problem with heat and cold. It sounds like I’m never happy but that isn’t it. These things make me physically ill. They stress me out and make my pain worse and I get exhausted. Sometimes I just need to get away from something, I just don’t know how else to say it. I know sometimes this means I will have to go outside, or out to the car, or go home to sit alone and that’s really all right. I don’t want or need you to give up doing what’s important to you. That would only make me feel worse. Sometimes when I feel lousy I just want to be by myself. When I’m like this there’s nothing you can do to make me feel better, so it’s just better to let me be.

I have problems sleeping. Sometimes I get really restless and wake up and can’t get back to sleep. Other times I fall into bed and sleep for fourteen hours and still be tired. Some nights I’ll toss and turn and not be able to sleep at all. Every little thing will keep me awake. I’m sure that’s confusing to be around, and I know there are times when my tossing and turning and getting up and down to go to the bathroom disturbs you. We can talk about solutions to this.

All these symptoms and the chemical changes in my brain from pain and fatigue can make me depressed as you’d imagine. I get angry and frustrated and I have mood swings. Sometimes I know I’m being unreasonable but I can’t admit it. Sometimes I just want to pull the covers over my head and stay in bed. These emotions are all very strong and powerful. I know this is a very hard thing about being with me. Every time you put up with me when I’m in one of my moods, secretly I’m grateful. I can’t always admit it at the time, but I’m admitting it now. One thing I can tell you is it won’t help to tell me I’m irrational. I know I am, but I can’t help it when it’s happening.

I have other symptoms like irritable bowel, muscle spasms and pelvic pain that will take their toll on our intimacies. Some of these symptoms are embarrassing and hard to talk about but I promise to try. I hope that you will have the patience to see me through these things. It’s very hard for me too because I love you and I want to be with you, and it makes everything worse when you are upset and tired of dealing with all my problems. I have made a promise to myself and now I am making it to you: I will set aside time for us to be close. During that time we will not talk about my illness. We both need time to get away from its demands. Though I may not always show it I love you a million times more for standing by me. Having to slow down physically and having to get rid of unnecessary stresses will make our relationship stronger.Link to the original letter

Easter Card

2011-04-02T18:26:00.003+01:00

I made this card up from a design that the very talented Sally Booth designed for sale on Crafts U Print. This is such a simply, effective, quick & very pretty card to make, so it's ideal for any last minute Easter greetings that you might want to make up. After printing out the design on to shimmery silk card & cutting out the pieces, I left the eggs in the back ground quite flat by just using glue, but the bunny I decoupaged to make him stand out. I toyed with the idea of glittering some bits of the design, but in the end I didn't bother ... maybe next time :)
Thanks for looking
Jx

Checking for scraps

2011-02-21T20:19:00.001Z

Three of my hens just checking for any seeds that my have fallen off of the bird table, before moving off for a scratch around the garden. Little do they know that their completely free range of the garden is coming to an end sometime this summer, when they will have a large fenced off area. However, these beautiful two legged rotovaters, are doing a great job at turning over the soil in preparation for planting.

Over the weeks I will be showing you some of the weird and wonderful objects that they have dug up in my long asleep garden which was once, obviously loved by it's previous elderly owner, before it went quiet and neglected.

OMW - Six Word Saturday

2011-02-19T23:18:00.002Z

Today over on One Minute Writer today is Six Word Saturday & today our prompt is to describe our life in six words, so this is how I would some up my life...

Family - Animals - Rural - Unregimented - Cluttered - Contented

Have a lovely Sunday folks & remember to make time for you in your day too..!
Jx

OMW - Friday Fiction

2011-02-18T23:52:00.002Z

Over on the One Minute Writer blog, they hold a Friday Fiction they drop the minute timer & encourage you to write a short {short short} story, again using a prompt.
Todays prompt is:

Strings

I was sat up in the attic, not sure how long I had been up here but, I knew that time must be ticking on by the pin and needles feeling in my feet where I had been sat on them for so long. Looking around me now I am surrounded by so much ephemera of what turned out to be the beginning of my parents life together. "Amazing" I thought to myself as I stretched my legs out, trying to rid my feet of the tingling, I had learned so much about Mum and Dad's life before 'Me', in such a short time and I learned all this from the letters and journals which it turned were attached to the string that I pulled on that was hanging out of the trunk.

Well, that's my 1st ever attempt at any type of story, it may not be the best but, I did enjoy writing it so I guess that's mission accomplished :)

Thanks for reading
Jx

Damage Stops Play

2011-02-18T21:49:00.002Z

My camera has stopped working I don't know what's wrong with it, one minute I was taking photos the next it went blank. Everything works on it just as though your taking a photo, but the LCD screen is blank, I can see the 'centering' markers that you use to line up a shot but everything is just ... well blank.! It's almost like when the lens comes out that a shutter is remaining closed obscuring the view, so I can't see my subject, the lens can't see the subject so I don't get my photo.
Ok, so it's just a kodak point & shoot camera & nothing fancy but, it's all I have got & it serves me well {up until now anyway} I have lot's of stuff I want to put on Ebay, I have just signed up to a daily photo journal too, not to mention adding photo's on here. Typical, things don't half pick there moments. So if anyone knows what I am talking about & has a clue as to what could be wrong with my camera please share your thoughts :)
Jx

The OMW prompt today is:

2011-02-17T14:38:00.003Z

Crazy
So whats makes you crazy?

My prescription medications thats what makes me crazy, well actually its how the surgery have decided to prescribe them. They will only prescribe me one months dose at a time , when they know so well that it is an ongoing medicine.
If it was something new to me, I could understand it or a controlled drug even, but no, month after month I have to re order. Times that by the amount of patients in the surgery and it's probably costing them more money in the long run, costs me twice as much money too.

Anyway, that's my minute up...
If you fancy writing down your thoughts daily with the use of a prompt, then check out the One Minute Writer blog

Birds of a feather ATCs

2011-02-15T21:33:00.003Z

Here are the first 4 ATCs in a set I am making to put over on my ATC Swap Lounge blog
I have decided to call the set which will contain at least 6 ATCs , possibly more "Birds of a Feather"
They are all British birds & they have been made using smalls scraps of left overs paper & an RSPB brochure that was included in the weekend newspaper, plus a touch of ink & the odd gem. The photos of the birds were far too pretty to simply throw into the recycle bin :)

I really shouldn't window shop....

2011-02-15T17:55:00.000Z

I just found this great site for perfumes ect. I really shouldn't have spent anything but I couldn't help but treat myself. I was good though & ordered a perfume for my step daughter Daisy's birthday which is at the end of the month.
Fragrance Direct

Chit Chat & Chickens

2011-02-05T10:29:00.003Z

I had to be up early this morning as my partner is away for the weekend visiting his children, meaning I needed to be up to let the hens out otherwise they would have created such a noise the whole neighbourhood would have known they were still shut in :) We lost a hen early on this week & it's a complete mystery as to what happened to her, no signs of feathers anywhere that would suggest a struggle with an animal of some kind, I have been up & down the road, no signs of squashed chicken & across the field looking, but still no signs of her. She was in the garden at midday when I did a head count & gone by 1pm, all very strange especially as she was one of my 3 original hens that I purchased as chicks & the 3 always stayed together. I have since aquired another 2 hens that my son asked me to have {he wants his garden back} so now I am back up to 5 hens again, so a full house :) & by the sounds of the happy crowing I just heard, there will be at least 2 eggs in the nest to collect later.

I am determined to do something crafty today, nothing big I don't think because I still haven't got my craftroom back yet & I daren't start anything big as family are likely to drop by at some point today & nothing is sacred when my grandbabies are around, even my youngest grandson Logan who is 7 months old is crawling & pulling himself up to the furniture.

Anyways, I am just off for a look around some of my favourite blogs & then I will make a start. Hopefully, I will have something to show later!

Have a great weekend everyone

Jx

Few cards I have made in the past

2011-01-13T21:25:00.005Z

A handful of cards that I have made in the past, some of you will have seen them before if your followers, but I doubt there are many of you left nowadays, given up on me many months ago :)

Happy 2011

2011-01-13T21:13:00.002Z

A new year and I have decided that it is going to be one that I put to good use. I want to get back into crafting again :)
I have applied to join the DT of a cardmaking sketch challenge blog (I'll let you know how that goes) if I am unsuccessful this time then I will certainly be looking for more, goodies or no goodies I just love being on a DT because it motivates me and gives me focus.

Oh, and I want to get back to blogging again too :)

Take care
Jx

Ooo Look what I found

2010-11-17T15:38:00.004Z

I was so pleased when looking for a long lost recipe earlier today, to find this website Mrs Beeton's Book of Household Management I grew up with this book because it was my Mum's (who is a good cook BTW) cookery bible. Mum taught me to cook at an early age & by 12yrs old I was cooking the Sunday Roast complete with a Pudding single handedly. I remember kicking up a stink on many a Sunday morning because I wanted to be doing something else, but my goodness did all that training pay off & I am so pleased that Mum taught me so well. I am not an expert by any means but, I am a confident cook that will try anything and normally with successful tasty results. I passed my cooking skills on to my sons too I think, because Ady is a chef for reputable inn and my youngest loves to cook also. Steve trys and is now producing a superb Roast dinner and Kev, well he is married to one of the best homely cooks I know and Kev is fit to burst :)

Anyway rambling over, if you enjoy cooking you may well enjoy this website as well. It is jam packed with the original Mrs Beeton, including the dates she used to make them and the prices in old money that it would have cost you back then to make the dishes. There are recipes in there that are now long forgotten and probably not even used anymore in the modern UK, such as calves feet in Aspic and other similar things that I certain don't entertain anymore but, it's a fun site.

Enjoy

UK Stampers 3x3 Swap .. September

2010-10-04T13:39:00.006+01:00

You may remember from a few posts back that I took part in UK Stampers 3x3 ATC swap for September, the theme was 'Shades of Blue'. Well, just look at what I have had returned, aren't they fabulous.
The top card is by Sid Hasledon aka Harpie38
The middle card is by Alison aka Craftytrog
The bottom card is by Sam aka Sam21Ski

I have my thinking cap on now for Octobers swap ... Halloween

Hope you all have a good week :)

Just Us Chickens

2010-09-29T14:32:00.009+01:00

These are my chickens, they have free roam of the garden at the moment, but that will be restricted next year when I plan to do a little landscaping. Manicured gardens & free roam chickens do not mix, as they will scratch & eat your garden to pieces. However, for now although it is messy, they are fertilizing it nicely for next years plans :)

I have Queenie (black maran) Bluey (blue maran) 2 Welsummers, Rosie & Mz Henny Penny [aka HP] & Bella (cream legbar) Bella is the one with the funny head of feathers that reminds me of a grannies bonnet.

After The Storm

2010-09-28T17:10:00.004+01:00

This is the view I took while stood on my front door step immediately after a heavy storm, when the sky had been so black I needed the lamp on indoors. I love my neighbours monkey puzzle tree & that you can just see the top of the tradition red telephone box, beyond that the hills & of coarse that lovely rainbow.

Mail Art

2010-09-28T16:52:00.004+01:00

This is the Mail Art (postcard) I created for the 2nd mail art swap over on UK Stampers.
I built up various colours of acrylic paint, starting with a metalic brown & loosely blending flat colours on the top. I then stamped images that reminded me of Autumn using Stazon Ink, added a touch of colour to the breast of the bird & more to the toadstools. I finished it off by adding gold leaf Rub & Buff paste to the edges of the card to lift it a little.
I wrote a message, along with the recipients address on the back, complete with a postage stamp just as you would with a holiday postcard, then posted it naked. I just hope that it doesn't get too wet & it arrives nicely postmarked, but still nice on the front
*fingers crossed*

New York City Blues

2010-09-03T17:15:00.004+01:00

I made these 3 ATCs for this months 3 x 3 swap over on UK Stampers where this months theme is Shades of Blue.
The stamp I used for these is by Inkadinkado, I also used 3 shades chalk ink direct to the card for the coloured background, then various pens to highlight parts of the image along with glossy accents.

Yet another grandchild...!

2010-08-15T21:58:00.003+01:00

Logan born 3rd July 2010

Mason Dexter Paul born 17th September 2009

Erin Paige born 12th November 2009

Yes, that's 3 new grandchildren in less than a year. I am so blessed, because that brings the running total to 8 now & means that all 4 of my wonderful sons are Fathers.

Have you discovered Dreamees yet?

2010-08-13T20:45:00.006+01:00

Recently, I connected with Carol Bignall via facebook & to my delight found out that her daughter Hayley designs craft CDs. They now sell them to the public under the name of Dreamees they have also just set up a blog, where you will find inspirational ideas for using their products. Pop over to their blog to catch up with whats going on for this Mother & Daughter partnership. Oh, one more thing, you may not be familiar with Carol's name, but if you love Create & Craft I am sure that you would have seen a card or cross stitch on there, that she has produced for one or two of their guests

The Graduate

2010-02-11T22:03:00.003Z

I am so proud of my partner Alex, he had his graduation ceremony yesterday at the Symphony Hall in Birmingham for getting a commendation in Rehabilitation Studies for the Visually Impaired...
Congratulations Alex....love you!!

The One Minute Writer

2009-12-07T19:47:00.004Z

I was reading my friend Cherrys blog today & through her blog found the One Minute Writer blog, so I thought I would give it a go.
Todays prompt is: What do you wish you liked...but you don't?
I wish I liked homemaking as much that I dream I do in my head...But, I don't?
My thoughts have ideas of how my rooms would look, with the furniture chosen, the colours, the fabrics & accessories used to enhance my living space, but it just never ever ends up looking like it does in my mind.
Yes, I do produce a comfortable, clean & tidy home, but there is always that mild dissatisfaction at the end product.
I always seem to be tweeking it here & another little accessory there, to try & to achieve that final look, but nope, it just won't come to a satisfactory completion.

Oops where did I go & December is here again!!!

2009-12-02T11:41:00.003Z

I have had my bum kicked into getting this blog up and running again.. So being one that does as she is told {yeah right} here I am :)

I have been slack, there is no getting away from the fact & I am not paying for it by working through a stack of CJs, when all I want to do is have some fun Christmas craft time. I completed a CJ last night & intend to do another 2 today, I can then get them back in the post & on there way to the next person.

Since writing last time another child has been born into the family, she was born on November 12th & her name is Erin Paige......My 2nd grandaughter & she is such a tiny little thing.
I really am blessed, by not only having 4 wonderful sons that I am extremely proud of, but having 7 gorgeous grandchildren too.
Plus, I am expecting an 8th in June '10.

The year 2009 did not start out as a very good year for me, I was in poor health both physically & mentally with lots on my mind, living away from my family who all reside in Wiltshire where I was born & bred. I was living in Shropshire with Alex so that he could be near his children, the flat we lived in was run down & in a place where I was afraid to venture out on my own due to drug & drink abuse in the location then, the marriage of one of my sons breaking down after 10yrs. Alex coming to the end of his Uni coarse & not knowing where in the country he would get work as he works with the blind.
It then all started to turn around at the beginning of June, Alex went for an interview for a job in Bath, I held my breathe for a couple of days because the location couldn't have been better. Then we heard from housing association that we had been offered a bungalow in Wiltshire in Lacock! I was over the moon, especially when later that same day Alex got his email to say that he had got the post he applied for in Bath..
I now live in my little bungalow, with my own contained garden & Ozzie my little Bichon loves the freedom too, Alex works for Deaf & Vision Plus overseeing the Vision side of things, my sons all live within driving distance to pop in and out for a coffee etc. new grandies what more could a girl want, I am so settled here now & life is good again, my mental health is definately so much better. My physical health is the same, but I didn't expect any change there & as usual I am more mobile in the summer months but, the winter months will always bring the pain & lack of mobility, but, thats fine I am used to that now & know how to cope.

The morale to this tale is.....
The grass is definately not always greener on the other side!
You don't know what you got til it's gone.
It's one mistake that I will not be making again!!

Hark at me rabbiting on here........
Anyway that's me brought up to speed & I will get something crafty done to post soon
I am also going to put a blog candy together as well, just to get me used to coming here on a daily basis......So watch this space if you dare

Feeling Poorly......

2009-09-26T21:17:00.002+01:00

I am feeling low today, not sure if its the makings of a cold coming on or if it's a side effect of this huge {well feels it anyway} cold sore on my top lip & my mouth feels claggy.
I was supposed to be spending a few hours at my sons today, but rang to cancel, as I didn't think I should be around the baby like this *sigh*
Alex is away in Shropshire this weekend visiting his children, so I am all alone until tomorrow afternoon, well apart from Ozzie, whose coat is yet again full of 'hook seeds'! He is a Bichon Frise for heavens sake, does he not know that he is not designed for rummaging in hedges & shrubs :) The last 2 days I have spent hours removing them, but look around & he has a coat full of them again. I just wish I knew from which shrub they were coming from, I would dig the thing up, I'm frightened to bits they they will grow into his skin, they are frightful things.
I will photograph them tomorrow, maybe, somebody could identify them for me...
Ah well... I'm off to watch Casualty on TV.

Meet baby Mason

2009-09-19T15:06:00.005+01:00

This is me with my brand new grandson...he is just the dearest little boy

My grandson Mason gently watched over by his proud Mummy Leona

I'm a Nan Again :)

2009-09-17T21:55:00.002+01:00

My son has just rang me to tell me that my latest grandson has just been born and mother and baby are doing well..... OMG, life don't get much better than this. I am going to visit tomorrow and will take my camera ;)

Waiting for News

2009-09-17T11:03:00.003+01:00

I had a text from my youngest son early hours this morning to inform me that his partners waters had broken. I am now excited & anxiously waiting for more news, this is their 1st child so I do know that I could be in for a long wait. They are expecting a son, which will be my 6th grandchild & 5th grandson. Poor Leona has had a few false starts over the past 8 days, so she is very tired now & very bulky :) They visited last night so that Paul could watch his team Arsenal play on Sky & I told her then, that I suspected baby would be born this evening.........watch this space to see if I am right :))

Blog Drought Over........But, been a sad day!

2009-08-23T18:52:00.003+01:00

Well, what can I say, it's been a long time since I visited my blog & even longer since I posted!!!
A lot has happened in the months since my last post, including me moving home. I have left Shropshire & moved back home to Wiltshire. I now live in the beautiful village of Lacock & in a more rural location, I can now look out of my windows at fields & hedge rows instead of boring blocks of red brick flats & littered walk ways.
I haven't managed any serious crafting since my last LO posted on here, but I am determined that is now going to change. I really do miss playing with lovely patterned paper & glue .... not to mention buttons, ribbons & other pretty embellishments.

It is a very sad day today, because my beloved & very faithful German Shephard Dog 'Murphy' died, with the assistance of a very kind vet & his nurse. I asked them to come to our home instead of adding stress to Murphy, by taking him to the surgery. He went off peacefully to sleep in the company of those he loved most, knowing that he was loved to the end. He was 12.5yrs old & was such a special dog.....a gentle giant, who will be missed for a very long time. I had owned him since he was a 5 week old puppy, still to young to leave him mother. I still remember that day when I went to see the litter of pups, the 4 pups that hadn't been reserved were put in the middle of the owners lounge floor while we talked. The next thing I knew was that a bundle of fluffy fur & huge paws had waddled over & laid down to sleep on my feet....... he had chosen me, so I purchased him there & then LOL What a lucky day that was, that puppy grew up to be the most beautiful dog, whith impecable manners & was so gentle, loyal & loving.
My murphy
RIP <3

Couple of recent LOs

2009-04-18T10:19:00.001+01:00

This LO has been created using the March kit from Scrapagogo. Unusually for me, I used a patterned paper as my background page, I chose to do this because the pattern on the paper enhanced the patterned lace on the upper sleeves of my wedding dress. The title speaks for itself I think, I was fine in front of the camera in the group photos, but when I was stood alone as the bride, I was extremely shy. I was the tender age of 16 years old when I married my childhood sweetheart back in 1976, I was a gymslip girl and was 7 months pregnant in these photos. My dad, chosse my dress for me very carefully, he was influenced by the 'bell' shaped sleeves.......bless him.

I was married for just over 20 years and we had 4 wonderful sons together. We have now both moved on, but remain friends to this day!

This LO was created using the April Kit, I knew that I wanted a garden theme and loved this photo of the Rose Arbour.

The journaling reads
"My fondness for the rose goes back to childhood. Spending time watching my grandad in his garden, caring for his roses. Clipping, preening & pinching off dead flowers to make sure that thier pretty heads stayed the whole summer through!!"

Sassy Blog Candy

2009-03-18T15:34:00.001Z

Check out the Candy on Susie's blog

3 recent pages

2009-03-17T14:37:00.006Z

The above page has a photo of my son Paul & his gorgeous partner Leona, it is a picture taken in 2008 while they were holidaying in the Dominican Republic!

The above page is of my grandsons school year, don't he look smart in his uniform

The above page is of myself & my Dad on my wedding day back in 1976

I remember how vunerable & shy I felt standing on those huge stone steps in front of County Hall Trowbridge. I was just 16 years old & was just the beginning of an amazing adventure.

I am not sure if it shows, but I chose the backing paper because the pattern mimicked the lace on the sleeves of my dress.

All materials used for the 3 pages all came from the March Scrapagogo kit!

Stampin Up Blog Candy

2009-03-17T14:30:00.003Z

Look at the fab goodies that the girls at 'Stamp with us' are giving away.
Click HERE to visit their fab site :)

We are on the road again with GoGo Storyteller

2009-03-12T11:04:00.006Z

Due to popular demand we are pleased to announce

GoGo Storyteller!

Open to Members & non members alike, on a first come first serve basis
This event includes all the materials you need to complete 5 classes, infact the products alone total in excess of £35 so this is a great value event with the usual GoGo appeal & one not to be missed!
The event will be held on Saturday September 19th 9.30am - 7.00pm.
Hanham Folk Centre

118-124 High St

Hanham

Bristol

BS15 3EJ
Member discount of 10% can be redeemed on this event if you are currently a subscribed member to GoGo Create or GoGo Greetings. Please note that the discount is applicable to members tickets only and not for purchasing guest tickets.

The discount code for subscribers is STORY
To keep ticket prices as low as possible NO meals are included, however refreshments will be included such as tea, coffee and biscuits. You are advised to bring along a packed lunch and any nibbles you fancy.
The event is a timetabled event and will include 5 structured classes.

Each delegate will have ample classroom table space to work on the classes.

Please note that GoGo Storyteller has been designed to teach 5 fun classes and therefore there will not be time for general cropping.
Please be advised that the classes for GoGo Storyteller may contain some past kit products as well as other items.

If you have any questions relating to this please email us at mail@scrapagogo.co.uk and we will be more than happy to help with your questions.

Classes have been specifically designed for this event & have not been taught or showcased before.
The classes are all designed & taught by GoGo Design Team Members.
Full class details will be emailed to all those that have purchased a ticket to the event in time for photo preparation etc.
In the eventuality of GoGo Storyteller being unable to take place for reasons beyond our control, a full refund will be given before the event is due to take place.

Sorry now sold out!

A sneak Peek from the March Kit

2009-03-04T23:14:00.003Z

Such gorgeous colour combos in this kit from ScrapaGoGo
& just look at that peek of the overlay!

Don't ask me where the time went??

2009-03-04T23:09:00.005Z

Received this lovely award from Margaret
Thanks so muchI will offer it to all of my followers, you know who you are?
I appreciate each and every one of you
thanks!!!

Need a Punch!

2009-02-23T14:43:00.005Z

I came across this photo on Mel's blog

It sure looks like punch heaven to me, although I am thinking that this is part of a stand {looking at the display to the side, I would say the EK Success} at CHA!

Do you have loads of punches? I thought I had a fair few, not sure how many as they are spread all over the house . Maybe, when I move house they will all come together in one place, then I will photograph them all. Some are my step daughter Lila's, she has been given as gifts over a few years or she has snagged from my stuff LOL

2009-02-19T17:06:00.003Z

Another LO created using the February Scrapagogo Kit, this time showing you not to be afraid of using pinks on Male themed pages.

The chap in the photo is my middle son Steve, and the title goes back to his childhood days, when he charmed the ladies of all ages, whether they were 19 or 90, Steve always managed to get them chatting to him! He is can still charm the birds from the trees now, I guess some people are just born with "the gift of the gab" LOL

Carnations & Fern

2009-02-18T21:10:00.005Z

This LO is of my Mum & her Dad, my darling late Grandad, walking into the church on her wedding day. I love this photo, it's been scanned to photograph, because I won't use the originals, they are way to precious!

I am also lucky enough to have Mum & Dads original telegram messages from thier wedding too!

Products used are all from February kits by Scrapagogo

Heard it on the Grape Vine

2009-02-18T11:47:00.003Z

I heard some sad news today

It seems like Luminarte are to cease trading.......makers of lines such as H2O, Radiant Rain and Cosmic Shimmer paints, sad to see them go.

Also, I've that a farewell to our cute little green bug, is on the cards too, as the company that manufacture the Cuttlebug machine on behalf of Provocraft, have gone under in this darned recession.

Please note though, that I have heard it through an informed source and NOT from the horses mouth.

Sad though, as I love Luminarte products and although I don't actually own a cuttlebug myself, I know loads of people that do use it regularly and my step daughter loves her cuttlekids machine.

Mingling

2009-02-16T23:17:00.005Z

Close up shot

Photos taken in the village of Castle Combe, immediately after my son Steve married his gorgeous bride Karo in June 2008

Here is the 2nd of my LOs & a card using Scrapagogo's February Kit

Just L@@K at what I'm playing with this afternoon!!

2009-02-16T14:44:00.003Z

Above is the amazing Scrapagogo Greetings kit for March, aren't the colours devine.
It is so nice to see these spring colours just now after all the white snow & ice everywhere!

Then there's the Go2Pieces kit, which is an optional extra to the Main Create kit, & yes those wonderful journal tickets do come to you, wrapped around that fun clothes pin!

The last 2 photos show what is contained within the Create Kit, the pictures are fantastic, but they are just that Photos. I can tell you that when this is in your home & you can see & touch the products it really is special. Those Glass pebbles in the above picture stunning, a bit larger than they look here, and quite weighty too, as you would expect from glass.
They are Prima Pebbles WANDERLUST (which as it happens is the name of this kit)

Then there are all the beautiful papers & Bazzill cardstock, which include designer papers from Luxe Designs, Collage Press, Making Memories Paperie, Creative Cafe, Tattered

Tags & the list goes on & on!

But, thats not all....Of coarse, as always there is the option of purchasing an exclusive stamp, that coordinates the kit perfectly, but this kit also see the launch of the *uber* exclusive optional Digi Kit, that will allow you to print off extras to use with the kit each month too!

To subscribe to the monthly kits, either visit the website
or email sales@scrapagogo.co.uk

Subscribers also have the privilage of being able to be a member of the Clubhouse, where there are monthly challenges, there are frequently prizes up for grabs too.

2009-02-14T22:31:00.009Z

I am so excited right now, because tomorrow I will be starting an online class hosted by

Ms Shimelle Laine.

This will be the 1st time that I have ever taken part of a coarse online, it was purchased for me as a Christmas gift.
However, I have taken a class with Shimelle before, back last June at the

gogo getaway retreat, it was so much fun.
Shimelle is so inspirational and enthusiatic, that you just can't help falling for the charms of this lovely lady from New York.

Anyway, back to the coarse, I am really looking forward to getting started.

I'll tell you a bit about it.....
It will run for 6 weeks, and it's called
Here, There and Everywhere

Its creating an album documenting the places you’ve been and the places you dream of
going too.

Here, There and Everywhere is the name of the workshop, and also the name of the
album’s 3 elements.

HERE will document the kind of travel you do near home, all the tiny little everyday journeys and important sights on your local area and landscape.
THERE is aimed at recording the places you have been, both in your own country and overseas illustrating your travels so far.

EVERYWHERE will be documenting the places we dream of going, and bringing the travel of our dreams one step closer, by researching and virtually planning our travels.

Along with all the lovely creations and guidelines from Shimelle, we get to see some goodies from Kelli Crowe, Nichol Magouirk and Jennifer Johner. There will be some Tia Bennett digi elements included too.

Cost is roughly £17.40, you get 18 prompts which equates to 70+ pages of material.

Check out the BLOG for further details and sign up.

Sounds like fun huh?
I will update you you with my makes as I work through the coarse

Sprinkles on Cupcakes

2009-02-13T18:25:00.005Z

Anyone is welcome to use the sketch for your own personal use, but acknowledge ScrapaGoGo in your write up Please!

This is the first of my LOs created with the lushious February Scrapagogo kit

I created this one from a sketch for the first of a new set of challenges for the everyone in reciept of the kits to take part in over on the Clubhouse

So many GoGo goings on right now!

2009-02-12T21:31:00.003Z

There is so much Scrapagogo news to pass on, I hardly know where to start.

From the March kit Scrapagogo we will be taking you to the very cutting edge of Scrapbooking, by bringing you the opportunity to purchase an Exclusive Hybrid Digi Elements Kit. This will be an optional purchase on Grabits Day {1st day of each month} as an accessory to both the Create and Greetings kits.
This kit will be 100% Exclusive to ScrapaGoGo, designed for us by the very talented Vicki Parker, to coordinate perfectly with your Monthly Kits and enhance your Scrapbook Pages with elements that you can download, print on your Patterned Paper or Cardstock and cut out to use.
We are very excited about this new aspect that we are able to bring you, we are the 1st UK kit company to be offering this presently!

Because these elements are designed to be printed out, on to Patterned Paper, Cardstock, Acetate or anyother medium that will run through your printer, no special programs are required to use them
The very first Digi Kit will be available on March 1st.

There are a few non subscription kits available for MARCH
On Sale now!
__________________

Prepare to be inspired, prepare to get using those kits and prepare for the most fun you have had for ages... and it is all FREE!
GoGo Academy is a brand new adventure that we invite you, our valued member and customer, to take part in.
GoGo Academy is all about making you think about WHAT you scrapbook, adding words to the nice pictures.
It's about LOOKING at yourself, your THOUGHTS and your ADVENTURES in a new way. Doing things you may not have usually done and writing words you may not have thought about.
GoGo Academy is a series of monthly Modules, delivered over twelve months, that will be emailed as a PDF document.
Each Module will be emailed to you just in time to work on with the month's kit.
Some Modules are seasonal, some are thoughtful and some are just plain fun!
Month by month you will receive new and exciting tasks to get you scrapping;
some will be spread over a few weeks and some will be enough to keep you busy until the next. You need do nothing to take part and you can join in each month or dip in and out when you have time.
There will be spot prizes along the way and maybe a graduation prize too.
So when do we start we hear you say?
Well, the first Module will be delivered in time to use along side your April Kit
so not too long too wait...

There really has never been a better time to begin a subscription with Scrapagogo, than right now
Either visit the website or email sales@scrapagogo.co.uk to get all the information you need

A little challenge

2009-02-09T15:32:00.002Z

When my parcel arrived the other day containing my Stampin' Up order {I am a member of Sally's SU10} I opened the box to find that I not only had my fantastic goodies that I ordered, but tucked away inside was a bag containing
1 x 6" square of double sided patterned paper
2 x 4" squares of cardstock {1 white & 1 brown}
2 x die cut flowers {orange & green}
2 brads.
At first I wondered what this was all about, until I recieved an email from Sally explaining that it was a challenge that she had set us & if I took part, I was in for a chance to win a prize.
And this is what we had to do....
We had to make something using the kit, but we were only allowed to add just 1 more item & a card blank!
This is what I made last night..

The other entries are awesome, so no way do I expect the prize, but it sure was fun taking part and I also have the bonus of having made another sweet card for my 'ready made cards box' Thanks Sally, it was fun!

Life is Like a Box of Chocolates

2009-02-08T19:35:00.004Z

Well it's almost that time of the month again when the Scrapagogo subcriber kits,
get picked by the Royal Mail to begin the journey to homes everywhere.
Those bright yellow boxes never fail to bring smiles & squeals of delight,

but I think this month especially,
there will be a few Oo's & Ahh's when they open up those boxes.
It is scrumptious.
I think it has to be one of my most favourite kits to date, and I have been with GoGo for over 2yrs.
Its absolutely full of shades pink, chocolates & creams, & the textures are simply devine.
The papers are shimmery
the embellies are velvet & felt & smooth
there is SEI, Basic Grey, Bazzill & Scenic Route,
theres Hambly, Creative Studios, American Crafts & Maya Road
to name just a few of the treasures that will be found within those yellow boxes.

I'm not surprised that they sold out almost as quickly as it was advertised

Above are a few sneak peeks of the Design Teams work {not mine this time} I will show you mine in a few days time.

Blog Candy Graphicus Style

2009-02-07T23:37:00.002Z

If you would like to be in with a chance to win a set of these amazing stamp plates, then you need to head on over to the Graphicus Design Team Blog and if you own your own blog, then you actually have double the chance of winning. I actually think Glenda is being a little over zealous asking us to post about this offer all over our blogs, because that means that more people will enter and the less chance for me to win them! LOL But, thems the rules ;)

*~* So don't just sit there looking at the pretty stamps, get on over there and put in your bid *~*

Simple Bracelet

2009-02-05T23:32:00.004Z

Here is my first attempt at making a bracelet with seed beads, I have used a magnetic clasp as a closure. Beading is something that I have just started to enjoy, but I find it quite satisfying and relaxing to sit and make something like this while watching the TV. A nice change from glue and paper occasionally.

I was encouraged to make this piece by a seed bead challenge that has been set over on the Crafts Beautiful forum

So boys want to have fun!

2009-02-01T20:17:00.004Z

Here is a LO I created this afternoon as my take on the sketch over on the Basic Grey Challenge blog.
These 2 rascals are my gorgeous nephews Tom & Ollie who live in Australia.

I have used Basic Grey papers from both the Periphery & Skate Shoppe Collections, Periphery paper embellishments & Alpha's, plus a hint of Bazzill cardstock, various other alpha's, a Prima jewel & lots of pen & ink!

Excuse that I have cut off part of the title in the scanner, I will photograph it in daylight tomorrow!

Pleased to back in the world of CJ's!

2009-02-01T13:45:00.003Z

I took a complete year off from taking parts in CJ's, but when I noticed a new one starting over on the Scrapagogo Clubhouse {the hub for all GoGo Kit Subscribers} I just couldn't resist signing up for it.
GoGo Delights ~ the name of this CJ is now up and running.

This is my entry in Katies CJ, which she has called "A Sketch a Day" the photograph is of GoGo Owners Lorraine & Janice, DT Members Lisa & Helen with Craft Products Designer Jennie Bowlin in the middle. The photo was taken while GoGo Team were at CHA in Autumn 2008.
This month we are all using left overs from January's kits to produce our LOs

Awarded a hug!!!

2009-01-31T13:31:00.002Z

I have been awarded with this hug from 2 of my fellow crafters over on the Crafts Beautiful Forum, thank you both so much Margaret and Denyze

Arty Girlz Challenge #70

2009-01-29T12:27:00.003Z

Here is an ATC I created for the Arty Girlz 70th challenge!

Lots of inking, paint effects and different efemera going on in this one.

I used a kit that my good friend Sarah sent me, that she called 'Miss Havisham Remembered' as a trial set. She is planning to sell ATC kits soon. I can tell you that there is enough scrumptious stuff in these kits to make at least 5 ATCs, so are going to be great value. Come on Sarah, get these kits out there, I want some more LOL

2nd Edition

2009-01-28T22:30:00.004Z

Check out the latest edition of the Craft's Shop Mag.... You know the one that on the right hand side of my blog? ....Yeah that one....click on it and have a read.

Guess what, I am in there too...yeah with my paper beads ;)

If you would like to be included in future editions than simply contact Claire over on the Secret Corridor blog and she will liase with you from there.

Oh and that cute little love birds heart key ring, it's been made by the lovely Juliet and it's up for grabs. If you would like the opportunity to win it, then head on over to Juliets blog to find out how ;)

Photo Challenge...love this one!

2009-01-26T13:25:00.014Z

I have been challenged by Jules to a photo challenge and this is what I have to do:

1) Go to the 6th photo folder saved on my PC (or not if you file them in a different way)

2) Choose the 6th photo stored and upload to to your blog

3) Write something about the picture.

4) Then challenge 6 new people to join this challenge....

Anyways, it just so happens, that I have been busy recently scanning in loads & loads of vintage family photos, in preparation to having them printed off to use in my scrapbooks!

My photo of my dearest grandfather Charlie Cook, when he was a younger man, funny, I never knew my grandad with hair or a moustache, so it was quite a surprise to find this photo. He resembles one of my uncles in this snap! I loved my grandad, but I knew him with glasses and white hair, always in a crew cut style. I remember I used to love to sit on his knee and rub his head, because his hair kind of prickled and tickled my hand LOL ....

He was one of the founder members of the Chippenham Wheelers in Wiltshire, along with my grandmother and 2 mutual friends I believe. They used to cycle all over the country and my grandad could still be seen out cycling approaching his 90th birthday, when he finally took heed and conceeded that he really wasn't safe anymore.

Sadly, he is no longer with us, but I have no doubt that he is sat, watching his family in a celestial armchair somewhere in a better place, with his 'Sweetheart' my grandma, by his side!

So without further ado, I am passing this challenge on to

Come girls play along, and let me know if you do so that I can come and see your photos ;)

GoGo Gossip

2009-01-19T17:02:00.005Z

Due to overwhelming demand ScrapaGoGo are pleased to announce
GoGo Colour Me Happy too!
This event includes all the materials you need to complete 4 classes, in fact the products alone total in excess of £35 so this is a great value event with the usual GoGo appeal
definately not one to be missed!
The event will be held on
Sunday July 12th 9.30am - 5.30pm.

At
Whittle Hall Community Centre
Lonsdale Close
Great Sankey
Warrington
WA5 3UA

I will be there, will you?

***************

While I'm on the subject of ScrapaGoGo

Have you thought of subscribing to a kit?

If you have, then now is a fantastic time to join up, and this is why!

WIN a 6 months FREE Create, Stamp & Go~2~Pieces Subscription!!!

Email and request a 'March Start Subscription' before Wednesday 21st January and you will be entered into a draw to win a 6 months Create, Stamp & Go~2~Pieces Subscription, this prize is worth £203.94!!! The winner will be picked from the 'hat' on March Despatch day, on or around 12th March 2009, the winner will be notified by email and published on our Blog at that time. For further details please email the office and we will be happy to help. (Limited Numbers of Subscriptions Available and Our usual Terms and Conditions for Cancellations will apply). 'Wanderlust' (March Kit) featuring Collage Press 'Jackson Lodge'; Collage Press 'Camden'; Making Memories 'Paperie'; Bella Blvd 'Family Tree'; Bella Blvd 'Pack Your Bags' and Creative Imaginations 'Creative Cafe'. Calm and tranquil combinations of blue, green and brown with a dash of orange make for a classy combo that is sure to put a spring in your step and have you reaching for your scissors in anticipation of creating sophisticated and fresh designs, so Spring Clean your crafting area and mind in readiness for GoGo March!

Why Choose ScrapaGoGo?

2009-01-18T22:46:00.009Z

The Marie Antoinette award, known as the Real Person award and was given to me by my good friend Dawn, it's lovely receiving awards, but I need to pass it on to 7 more blogs.
So here goes with the rules:
1. Link to the person who gave you the award
2. Nominate 7 more persons
3. Link the nominees and let them know about this award
4. Post the award on your blog
Sarah
Leona
MT
Pips
Natalie
Sarah
Suz

2009-01-18T21:48:00.003Z

Aquae Sulis...aka Bath, has to be one of my top 10 places in the whole of the United Kingdom to visit. I was lucky enough to have been born & bred within 12 miles from this amazing georgian city. The architecture is fantastic, attracting tourists worldwide, which to be honest can be a pain, when all you want to do is pop into M & S quickly or just have a quiet few hours in pleasant surroundings. I also frequent the famous Royal Mineral Hospital there too, years ago peaople with Arthritic and Rheumatic conditions used to go there to bathe in the mineral waters. The same work and care is given at the hospital, but today there is a hydro pool with cleaner water! In this LO you can see a couple photos taken in Bath
The bridge in the top photo is Pulteney Bridge & the weir. The bridge is one of only four bridges in the world with shops across the full span on both sides. Two of the others, can be seen in Florence and Venice.
The shops on the bridge include a flower shop, antique map shop, and juice bar.
The other photo is the world famous Roman Baths, this one is known as the Great Bath. The Romans believed that bathing in the waters were healthy, because of the minerals. Not something that I would have wanted to try, it tastes disgusting and smelt even worse.
The water remains warm as it bubbles up fromhot springs, because the city of Bath is built on an extinct volcano!

Sorry, but I did say I loved the place :)

The next LO is of my grandaughter Chloe, it was taken as her first official school photo!

I am also entering this LO as my Arty Girlz make, where we were asked to use a button!

Both of these LOs have been made using January's ScrapaGoGo Kit

2009-01-18T17:48:00.002Z

Here are a couple of cards I made using the January ScrapaGoGo Greetings kit

The little monsters and cogs on the patterned paper are just so cute, I will be sending this card down to my eldest and youngest grandsons {3 brothers} to wish them a good 2009

This cute little fellow will be going into my card keep box, for a birthday later in the year!

Sneeky peeks from January

2009-01-14T17:29:00.003Z

I will reveal the complete Los in a few days time and tell you more about them then too!

2009-01-12T22:30:00.007Z

GoGo Colour Me Happy!

It has been announced today that ScrapaGoGo are coming to Warrington!
When?
July 11th 2009
How Much?
£50
Whats Included?
5 Classes, which includes all the products needed for each class

If you want the atmosphere of a Retreat, but just can't manage the time or the cost involved, then this is one event you do not want to miss!!

Need to be quick though, as the places are filling up fast!

Want to know more? then just click HERE for the booking form and more information

Opps Sorry this event is now SOLD OUT

Index Card Box

2009-01-09T17:03:00.005Z

This box started out as a Washing Powder Box, but it was so strong and when you close it, it just stays that way without popping open again.....far to good to throw away, as I knew one day it would come in handy for something!

I am a complete airhead when it comes to remembering birthdays, even within my own family. So this year I am determined to not forget a single one, so I created this box to hold index cards, one for each member of the family or friend.
I also made dividers, one for each month of the year. Will it work? honestly,
I just don't know, but it's certainly got to be worth a try!

Over on the ScrapaGoGo Clubhouse, one of my fellow design team members Nicola has challenge all GoGo Kit subscribers to use up our old /past kits. On this box I used papers from January 2008 kit, from Making Memories 'Noteworthy Range'. I chose not to embellish the box any further, because it going to sit on my desk and I really don't want it to have to much on it that collects dust...not fond of dusting me!
It also fits the requirements for this weeks Arty Girlz challenge, which is "anything but a card" just nicely.

1) I began by carefully stripping of the advertising paper from the box, leaving a blank chpboard base to work with. I choose to strip some of it right back to expose the corrogated card, to give it a distressed look. This is of coarse optional...
2) I then painted my box with acrylic paint and set aside to dry
3) I cut out panels of patterned paper for each of the sides, I left the bottom simply painted.
4) Glue the panels in place, I chose to make them slightly shorter, to allow the paint to show at the edges.
5) I then glazed the whole box with matt glaze {gesso} tinted with a little paint and allowed to dry completely, which did lift the paper a little...but I like that look, again it is just preference.
6) Finally, I rubbed a little gold leaf wax embossing paste on areas that I wanted it, when dry I then buffed it up!

I Spy Fun

2009-01-08T21:41:00.006Z

Here are photos of the kit supplies that the lucky Scrapagogo kit subscribers are eagerly waiting for right now, they are due to be delivered very soon.
I however, have already used my kits and I will start showing you sneek peeks very soon!

The above is the Create Kit Stamp and is really versatile, just wait until you see some of the fantastic designs using it!

The above picture is the Greetings Kit and I fell in love with it as soon as I saw it.

Above is the Go2Pieces kit, which is optional, but compliments the main kit so well

Some of the embellishments that will be found within the Scrapagogo's statement Yellow Box

Stickers, felt ric rac, alphas, journal cards it's all in the kit.......

And we mustn't forget all those amazing papers and cardstock that is always in the kit too

The colours of this kit is so refreshing and just the thing to start off 2009!
Being on the Design Team, I am lucky enough to have an insight for the next couple of months kits, and believe me when I say they are yummy, I mean it.

In fact I am expecting the Royal Mail to be delivering my DT kit for February tomorrow, it's that good I am drooling at the thought of it now!

If you are considering subscribing to a kit during 2009, now is the perfect time to sign up with Scrapagogo, because Lorraine and Janice are off to the USA at the end of January to book kits, directly from the suppliers at CHA.

LOOK HERE for further information

Launch of a Jewellery challenge blog

2009-01-08T18:22:00.003Z

Do you love beading or fancied having a try?
Are you up for a challenge

If the answer to these questions are Yes?

then you might be interested in heading over to
the Jewellery Challenge blog

It's launched it's very first challenge just a few days ago.

Now where did I put my bead box, findings and tools?

2009-01-06T16:45:00.003Z

Oh dear, not the best start to a new year of blogging. I have been pootling about in my craft area, but not anything to show you yet. I have a project still in the making, but the glazes are taking an age to dry, plus I have some DT work, that I'm not able to reveal yet.

I have also been busy scanning loads of vintage family photographs, no way could I bring myself to use the originals on my scrapbook pages, even though I do try to be as acid & lignin free as possible.

Not feeling up to going to the Shropshires group today, sorry Suz, hopefully make it next week

Its deadly outside today because the snow is still laying on the ground, but it also rained in the night. Of coarse this has now put a sheet of ice on top of the snow, even with my walking stick I would be taking a huge chance of not slipping up, but I desperately need to go to the post office. I guess I will wait til later in the day to see if the conditions improve.

Snowman Soup

2009-01-02T14:10:00.003Z

Just look at this special little gift was sent to me by my good friend, fellow GoGo Girl & personal UK Stampin Up consultant Sally for Christmas.
I love it so much & thought it was such a yummy & thoughtful gift!

This is what it says on the back of the package handmade & beautifully embellished package

" Was told you've been real good this year.
Always glad to hear it!
With freezing weather drawing near,

You'll need to warm the spirit.
So here's a little snowman soup, complete with stirring stick.

Add hot water, sip it slow.

It's sure to do the trick!!!

Well. it did do the trick, warming & was very yummy too :)

Thanks Sally

xXx

2009-01-01T23:00:00.007Z

I have been very lucky in the Christmas Blog Candy stakes for 2008
Just have a look what I have won over on Jennies blog and I was lucky enough to win twice. First time on the 27th December {the daisy stamp} and again on Christmas Day {a huge £40 worth of craft goodies}

Jennie is also the owner of 'The Artistic Stamper shop' where you will find oodles of wonderful goodies to purchase. I know that having fallen in love with lots of the products she sells, that i will be a regular customer from now on.
She is one busy lady, as she runs the

'Object D'Art' challenge blog too!!

Thank you so much Jennie, I promise to share what I make....

{I will upload the pictures just as soon as Blogger will play the game, I have given up trying this evening {and almost the will to live too LOL} after 45mins of long trying}

2008-12-29T12:29:00.005Z

I heard the very sad news today that
Beverley Todd
passed away on 23rd December,
having suffered a major brain haemorrage.

My heart goes out to her family at this very sad time
Beverly will also be very much missed in the scrapbooking world too
she was very talented and had many friends.

Good night sweet lady

Sleep well.

Twas The Night Before Christmas

2008-12-25T14:58:00.003Z

Twas the night before Christmas,
and I'm glued to the tree.

I'm wondering what Santa has brought, just for me.
Could it be cardstock or chipboard or lace?
Or a Cricut, I thought, with a smile on my face.

But, that's when I heard him,
"Hi Santa," I said
"Ho Ho! You know....all good girls should be in their beds"

"I know I should Santa, and now I've been caught.
I was just so excited, to see what you brought."

"Well, let's take a look in this room where you work,
he then shook his head quickly, and left with a jerk.

I heard him exclaim, as he put his sleigh in gear.
"You've got enough crap, so I'll see you next year!"

2008-12-25T00:14:00.002Z

Merry Christmas to everyone
have a fantastic day

See you all soon

Jane x

Snowfall

2008-12-15T20:41:00.002Z

I love, love, love how this LO looks in real life.
But, try as I might I just can't show you on here the true 3D in all it's transparency!

The dog by the way, playing in the snow is my 11yr old faithful GSD 'Murphy'.

It from December's Mini Kit from ScrapaGoGo containing
12 x 12 Acrylic Sheet by K I Memories in *Hibiscus*
12 x 12 Double Sided Patterned Paper
12" strip of Cream Lace

I added Black, Blue Ink, Rangers Dabber Paint in *Pearl* & my trusty White Uni Signo pen!

LO incorporating Paper Beads

2008-12-12T21:24:00.002Z

Here is the LO that I gave you a peek of a few days ago, it also incorporates the paper beads from my tutorial.
The LO was created using December's ScrapaGoGo kit.

The photo was taken back in June this year at the GoGo Getaway Retreat in Cheshunt in Hertfordshire. The girls in the picture {left to right are Dee, Jane, Donna & Emma} were all such fun to share a weekend with and I can hardly wait until next year for the next one or rather two!

The stalk of the largest flower has been made using some Bazzill pompom ribbon and some of my paper beads.

My Paper Beads Tutorial

2008-12-12T20:39:00.009Z

Paper Beads are not only a fun project to make, but they are also great for using up all those scraps of pretty patterned paper. They can be made up in batches and stored away until your ready to use them.

Suggested tools required:
Pencil
Ruler
Scissers or craft knife
Patterned paper {non cardstock weight is best}
Wooden Stick {manicure stick or similar sized dowel}
Pallette or non stick messy mat
Modge Podge or Water/PVA glue mix or {my chosen medium} Deco patch glue & gloss
Cocktail sticks or similar

Step 1:
Draw elongated triangles on the reverse of a 6" x 6" piece of patterned paper, as you can see by the photo, you can get a lot of beads from this size.

Then cut along the drawn lines to make the triangle shapes.

Step 2:
Dip the wide end of the triangle into the glue medium and then turn it around the wooden stick, brush the glue along the paper as you turn it, to glue it together.

You will see the shape of the bead appear, when it is completely wrapped and held firm.

Step 3.
You may find it easier to transfer your bead to a finer stick at this stage to coat with the glue medium. You can either dip them completely in the glue mix, or brush them with the glue if you prefer.

Set it aside to dry out completely!

When completely dry you can then, coat them with a gloss medium or even clear nail varnish, to finish if desired.

Zesty Thanks

2008-12-10T22:14:00.003Z

A simple thank you card, again made using the
Decembers ScrapaGoGo Greetings kit! I love the colours in this card and those stick on faux brads, they are gorgeous!

Yummy Blog Candy Alert!

2008-12-09T20:06:00.000Z

Huge blog candy over at Claires blog and very generous amount too!

Ol' Christmas Tree

2008-12-09T18:03:00.002Z

I have been wanting to create a paper tree for the past few years, but have run out of time every year so far. So when one of my design prompts was to create a Christmas home decor item, I knew exactly what I wanted to make. Then came the challenge of how to make it my own, there are so many paper trees designed each year that I decided to use a present/gift as a tree topper, rather than the traditional star or angel.
The tree was created using the ScrapaGoGo December Create Kit, plus the G2P's!

I am also using this project as this weeks Arty Girlz challenge where we are asked to use our Favourite Crafting Medium, and my favourite has always been Patterned Paper. So for me this challenge was easy!

December Sneeky Peek

2008-12-08T12:11:00.003Z

As I said the other day, Decembers ScrapaGoGo kit was such fun to work with and thats just what I had when creating this LO. I can hardly wait to show you the rest of this LO and the other projects that I created with the kit. Maybe later today!I am also putting this forward for the ArtyGirlz challenge where they are asking to use Frames

I have actually heat embossed!!!

2008-12-07T15:59:00.002Z

I have created this folder of papers goodies as part of a swap over on UKS

I hope that the person I made it for likes green!I started out with a 12x12 sheet of Bazzill Smoothie ardstock, then stamped using Versamark ink & embossed using clear powder for the bigger image & lime green for the smaller ones. I then measured & cut out the 4 corners. I made fold marks using my Scor-Pal (I love this bit of kit) as shown below. I then made a couple of holes in the back of the folder to thread the ribbons through!

Next I made an ATC sized pocket with more Bazzill smoothie, to hold hand stamped journaling cards, adding ribbon to tie!

Next I decorated the front by holding a snowflake template {these were a set of freebies with Papercraft Inspirations Magazine, given to me by a friend} I then patted my Pearl Paint Dabber {another product I would hate to not have in my crop bag} to create the snowflake & allowed to dry!

{TOP TIP} There will be a lot of paint left on the template, don't waste it, choose a piece of cardstock & lay the template carefully on it, this will create a negative image

When completely dry, I then added a large gem flower & glued a smaller on in the middle, before embellishing the snowflake with gemstones. I then made holes for the ribbons!

I used a stamp that I had in one of my Scrapagogo kits earlier in the year to make the journaling cards. It will all be enclosed in the embossed folder, along with some cards & envelopes & a extra few goodies that I won't disclose here.

Now all I hope for is that the person that I am posting this too, will like it too!

Driving Home for Christmas

2008-12-03T17:29:00.002Z

Just look at what I have just finished playing with!!!

Everything in the December "Driving home for Christmas" Kit from ScrapaGoGo really does scream Christmas, but as a lot of the DT show in thier LOs, that it can be used for absolutely any theme too!

With papers from Crate, October Afternoon, K&Co to name but a few & the Cardstock from Bazzil & Core-dinations, plus a full 12x12 sheet of Alphas, it really is an amazing kit to work with!

Don't you just love that Bazzill Pompom & Velvet Ribbon? Then there's the epoxy brads & wooden ones too. Not to mention that Glitter Marker from American Crafts & the gorgeous journal cards & the tickets are such fun to use on your projects!

I adore the chipboard gift shape & the Bazzill Tulle adds a lovely touch to whatever you choose to use it on, there are also embellishments from Prima & Making Memories, there are gorgeous Ribbons & Ricrac. Plus there are fantastic buttons from Fancy Pants, in festive colours, but don't forget that exclusively designed stamp too, this month it has been designed by our very own Karen Cole & is perfect for creating mini banners & bunting for your projects.
As always contact ScrapaGoGo for more information, you can also view the

DT gallery too!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email either Lorraine or Janice

sales@scrapagogo.co.uk

Birthday card

2008-11-30T14:59:00.003Z

I made this birthday card for my darling step daughter who will be 8years old in December..sorry about the poor picture, I made it last night as part of a challenge over on Crafts Beautiful They are having thier online Christmas Party this weekend, so I had to upload it at the time, so it was scanned.

TMTA ~ Cloth & Paper

2008-11-28T20:49:00.004Z

Here is my take on this weeks Think Monday, Think ATC's challenge...where we were asked to use Cloth & Paper! I have tongue in cheeked titled this ATC "Fangs for the post"

Friendship Card

2008-11-22T15:39:00.005Z

The words on this card read

The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand,

nor the kindly smile.

Nor is it the joy of companionship,

it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one

when he discovers that someone else believes in him

and is willing to trust him

-Ralf Waldo Emerson

This card is also my entry to the Arty Girlz challenge #61 where we were asked to use a quote or verse!