MyLife

Layout sketch challenge August

2011-08-31T19:43:00.000+10:00

This is my page for the August Layout sketch challenge at My Creative Slice. It's another page for g.grandson Zachary's album. I love this photo of him wearing his halloween bats' ears.

Fun

Copic Challenge Card

2011-08-31T19:21:00.001+10:00

Here's the card I made for the August Copic Challenge over at the Scrapbook Fantasies blog. I bought the digital stamp because it reminded me of my g. grandson Zachary and his love for Thomas the Tank Engine.

Boys Toys

Stamp - digital 'Thomas' by Sugar Nellie

Copics -clothes (B93, 95, 97) Train (B14, R27) Hair (E43,44,47) Skin (E50,R20)

Patterned paper - FooFaLa, basil c/stock

Challenge and a retreat

2011-08-21T17:40:00.000+10:00

Life has been so busy lately I've been neglecting my blog. Last weekend, with my friend Marilyn, I attended a 3 day scrapbooking retreat run by Scrapbook Fantasies. We both had a fabulous time. Especially enjoyable was the pyjama party, because what could be more comfortable than cropping in your P.J's? One week later and I've just finished unpacking. I've made time to make a page for Scrapbook Fantasies weekly challenge #32. The photo is of my great g.daughter Aleara, who is definitely a precious little girl.

Precious

July Layout Sketch Challenge

2011-07-30T20:26:00.000+10:00

This is my page for the July layout sketch challenge over at My Creative slice.

Hangin' Out

Another page done, but I still have hundreds of photos of G.GSon Zachary to scrap.

Copic Challenge

2011-07-30T20:04:00.000+10:00

Once again real life has managed to interfere with my crafting but I have managed to do a card for the Scrapbook Fantasies Copic challenge. This month the theme is Christmas.

Happy Holidays

Image: Heather Ellis Pure Innocence

Copics: (R24, 27), (YG25), (E43, 50), (B0000, 14), (BV00, 01), (C03).

Kaiser brads, Diamond stickles.

June Card Sketch Challenge

2011-07-15T19:58:00.001+10:00

I've been absent from blogging for two weeks because, like everyone else, I've been laid low by various bugs that are going around. I was suffering withdrawal symptoms so I managed to make it to Super Saturday at Scrapbook Fantasies. It's five hours (7pm to midnight) of scrapping, cards or whatever you want to work on. I had a great time, and managed to almost finish my tags for the Card Club 'Christmas in July' tag swap.

Friends Forever

This is my card for the June card sketch challenge at My Creative Place.

Copics : Dress (YG93, 95, 97, Y21), Shoes (Y21), Hair (E43, 44, 47), Skin (E50, 51).
Stamp : Magnolia Circus Tilda - Autumn Collection 2010
Paper : Jillibean Soup, basil cardstock. All else from my stash.

Copic Challenge June

2011-07-01T09:04:00.001+10:00

I found a lovely step card tutorial at Cats Whiskers Tutorials and decided to use it for my Scrapbook Fantasies Copic Challenge card. The challenge was to use blue and white in your card.

thinking of you

Stamps -Waiting Tilda from You are So Special Magnolia Collection. SU Three Little Words.

Copics - Dress & socks (B0000, 000, 00,02), Shoes C1, Skin (E50, 51, 53), Hair (E43, 44, 47)

Other - Kaiser pearls, Nestabilities Lacy Squares, SU scalloped edge punch

Everything else from my stash.

I'm glad I'm able to post again today because yesterday Blogger was really having a bad day.

Layout sketch challenge June

2011-06-29T18:34:00.000+10:00

I have completed my page for the June layout sketch challenge at My Creative Slice. It's another page for the album I'm making about great-grandson Zachary and will be a present for my daughter. It's hard to believe how much he's changed over the last 12 months. He's a real little boy now, quite grown up. I love this photo of him with his fat baby cheeks!

Create

I have turned the sketch on it's side to suit my photo. These challenges are a great way for me to get some pages done.

miss you card

2011-06-23T21:40:00.000+10:00

I tried to post last night but Blogger was a bit tempermental and wouldn't let me upload photos.
Using a previous Outlawz sketch challenge, I made this card for my daughter just to let her know how much I miss her. She moved back home with us three years ago to complete her university studies. At the time she needed a little extra help because she's also caring full time for her 3 year old grandson, Zachary. Last month she graduated Bachelor of Psychology. It was a very proud moment that she has worked extremely hard for.

i miss you

Zachary and Rabby

Jastine

March to the Auditorium

Now that she's finished her studies she and Zach have moved back to Brisbane which has left a bit of a gap in my life.

May Card Sketch Challenge

2011-06-13T12:14:00.002+10:00

In between starting the mystery quilt with my patchwork group, working on the last bit of my Janome block of the month quilt and making more blocks for my scrappy quilt, I've had to make time to do my card for the May sketch challenge at My Creative Slice. I really liked the colours in the sketch so I've stuck with them for my card.

May sketch challenge

The image is a stamp from Laughing Moon, and I've stamped it with Versacolor White over a grid background stamp from Kaiser. The brads are from Kaiser as well, everything else is from my stash.

Once upon a time the only stash I had was a fabric stash. Now I've had to move my sewing machines, overlocker, cutting tables etc. upstairs to one of the spare bedrooms because scrapbooking/card making has taken over my sewing room. Where it will all end I don't know, but at least it keeps me sane (reasonably) and happy.

Monthly Card Club

2011-06-13T11:47:00.000+10:00

Thought I would post the last few cards I've made for the monthly Card Club swap at Scrapbook Fantasies. We usually make between 15 - 18 cards with a new theme every month.

Autumn

Easter

Masculine

It's a good opportunity to use some of my stamps that never see the light of day.

Copic Challenge Card

2011-05-31T16:48:00.001+10:00

I've just finished my card for this months Copic challenge at Scrapbook Fantasies. I don't know why I'm always on the last minute however it's due by midnight tonight so I've just made it as usual. I probably should have been working on it today but instead I spent the day with two friends cutting our fabric for a mystery quilt workshop being run by our local patchwork group over the next couple of weeks. Great fun!

Thinking of You

It's another Easel card because I really like them. The image is a digital from Mo Manning, coloured with copics. Sorry the photos aren't the best. The light wasn't very good this afternoon.

May Layout Sketch Challenge

2011-05-11T17:02:00.000+10:00

This is the page I created for the May Layout Sketch Challenge at My Creative Slice. The border was made with my favourite ribbon. Alas, I didn't have quite enough to go all the way around so I used two flowers to fill in the gap. I love blue and brown as a colour combination, especially for a male page.

Jaidyn

The photos are of my grandson, Jaidyn, celebrating his 11th birthday.

April Card Sketch Challenge

2011-05-07T08:36:00.000+10:00

It's hard to believe we're already into the fifth month of 2011. This year is just flying by, mind you at my age every year flies by, lol.
This is my card for the April sketch challenge at My Creative Slice.

Thanks So Much

Inside

Details

Stamps: Magnolia - Tilda with Bike, Sentiment - Stampin Up.

Ink: Memento Black. Paper: BoBunny, K & Co, Kaiser.

Copics: (E50,51,53)(E43,47)(YG23,25)(Y02)(C5)(YR02).

The frame was cut using my eCraft.

I've managed to finish this challenge a little earlier than I normally do, which is usually at the last minute.

UFO's

2011-05-05T19:53:00.003+10:00

I've actually managed to finish a small project that I've been working on for about 5 years (not constantly,lol). It was a project that I could just pick up and take to my patchwork group meeting, sew a few stitches, then spend the rest of the time talking.

Work Bag

It's a small work bag, and is made from 7 large hexagons that are pre-finished with wadding and backing. Gold beads were stitched to the top to hold the cord. I really like it, especially as the fabric is printed with bird houses.

2011-05-05T19:51:00.001+10:00

Copic Challenge

2011-04-30T18:06:00.001+10:00

I'm definitely on a roll. Two posts today. This is the card I made for April Scrapbook Fantasies Copic Challenge. The theme was mother so naturally I made a Mothers Day card. It's a twisted easel card with the finished size of 41/4" x 51/2".

Happy Mothers Day- Front

Happy Mothers Day-Inside

Happy Mothers Day-Detail

Details

Stamp - Digital stamp from Digi Doodle- Daisy Girl, Sentiment-computer generated.

Copics- (E43, 47, 50, 51, R20), (B0000, 000, 00, 02), (Y0000, 00, 02, 08), (YG25, 93, 95)

Paper & embellishments from stash.

April Layout Sketch Challenge

2011-04-30T17:35:00.000+10:00

What a surprise! Here I am posting my page at the last minute. This is my take on Scrapbook Fantasies April layout sketch challenge.

My Hat

It's always a pleasure to remember the fun we had while taking photos of great grandchildren.

Copic Challenge

2011-03-31T17:39:00.000+10:00

Oops! I think I should have posted each of my challenges in separate posts.
This is my baby themed copic project.

Mini Album

I saw this while blog hopping and will post a link to the original once I track it down.

TFL.

Sketch challenge

2011-03-31T17:28:00.001+10:00

I didn't think I would make the deadlines for Scrapbook Fantasies Layout sketch challenge this month. It closes at midnight tonight, and I have just managed to complete my project on time.
This is my March Layout sketch challenge page.

Play

This is my baby themed copic project for another challenge at Scrapbook Fantasies.

February card sketch challenge

2011-03-19T17:11:00.001+10:00

This is the card I made for the February sketch challenge at Scrapbook Fantasies.

Dream

I used a kit that I bought last year. The stamp is a Hanglar and is coloured with copics. Unfortunately I forgot to note the colours I used. I just love these stamps, they're so cute.
Other entries can be viewed in the Scrapbook Fantasies gallery here.

Layout sketch challenge

2011-02-28T09:37:00.001+10:00

I've just finished my interpretation of Alicia's February layout sketch challenge. It's due midnight tonight so I'm on the last minute as usual. Here's a photo of my page about my gorgeous great grandson, Zachary. You can also view the other participants here in S,F. gallery.

New Shirt

I did a copic class on Saturday at Scrapbook Fantasies, which was very interesting and covered several different techniques. It's a bit hard to switch your mind from normal hair colour to purple hair but it's great practice for colouring Sweet Pea stamps. Have a look here on Alicia's blog.

Set up my eCraft and had a little play with it on Sunday. I think I'm gradually working out my pressure settings so there were no major dramas. These are my background papers with the carrier cardstock sheet behind. It seems to cut better that way without the need for tabs.

eCraft samples

Wings'n;Things workshop

2011-02-23T16:53:00.000+10:00

I had s lovely time today doing a workshop at Scrapbook Fantasies. It's a shabby chic/vintage style wall hanger, and I love it!

These are a couple of snaps of parts of my hanger. It looks much better in the flesh. Alicia's finished class project is in the shop.If you get the chance pop in and see it.

January Card Sketch Challenge

2011-02-08T16:41:00.000+10:00

Just a quick entry this time as I'm off to Brisbane for a week and wanted to have it done before I left.
I'm looking forward to a week in the air conditioning with no housework to worry about.

Little Bird

The photo is a bit washed out, the ribbon is a very bright lime green. It's a very simple card with no colouring but I really like the bright colours.

Scraobook layout and Free Block Frenzy

2011-01-31T15:27:00.000+10:00

I haven't posted for a while but I have been busy with my crafting, including monthly Saturday card club at Scrapbook Fantasies (16 themed cards to make for swapping), working on my sketch challenges and my Janome block no, 7.

This is my interpretation of Alicia's January layout sketch challenge.

January layout sketch challenge.

I never tire of scrapping pages about great grandson Zachary. Although he's a bundle of energy and a bit of a devil at times, he's just so cute it's hard to keep a straight face sometimes.

This is block no. 7 in the Janome Free Block Frenzy.

Janome block no. 7

Block 8 is almost finished, and the next session is our last. It will conclude with block 9. and the borders and sashing kit. We saw the finished product at our last session and it's gorgeous. Since it's set on point I'm not sure how long it will take me to finish. Just have to keep plugging away.

Oops

2011-01-01T12:49:00.001+10:00

I forgot to add my black bits to my Challenge #51 layout- Double page, use red, green, white & black but not Christmas themed.

I think that looks better.

Cards & Cutters

2010-12-31T23:54:00.000+10:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and that your New Year will be a productive one.
Below is my card for Scrapbok Fantasies December card sketch challenge.

Supplies:
Patterned Paper: Basic Grey Lime Rickey (part of a kit I've had for quite a while)
Stamps: CC designs-Swiss Pixies-Laying Nora, Sentiment-Studio G
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black, Versa Pinecone
Copics: (E43, 47) (E50, 51, 53) (Y0000, 02, 08)
Other: Diamond Stickles

I was lucky enough to receive an eCraft electronic cutter (must have made the 'nice' list) and I've been having a great time experimenting with various papers and shapes. I really like the fact that you don't need cutting mats, you can buy sets of images on SD cards, or it can be connected to your computer. I'm sure it will be put to good use in my cardmaking and scrapbooking. You can even cut fabric with it but I'm not sure if I'll be trying that.

My double page layout for Week 51 challenge at Scrapbook Fantasies. The title and page elements have been cut with my eCraft.

Back Again

2010-12-15T16:20:00.000+10:00

I haven't had much time for blogging lately, especially with Christmas so close. So far I have done no shopping, which is cutting it fine even for me.
I've still managed to find time for a little bit of crafting. This is my card for Scrapbook Fantasies November card sketch challenge. Once again I'm cutting it a bit fine. I decided to make it a Christmas card, and thanks Paula for inspiring me to finally use my snowman stamps.

Materials used:
Copics: R59, B32, YG23, C1, YR16
Stamps: Snowman-Stampendous, Sentiment-Hot Off The Press.
Ink: Memento Tuxedo Black
I also used Stickles and Glossy Accents for a bit of sparkle.

Easel Card Drawer

2010-11-11T15:37:00.000+10:00

This is a little present that I made for my friend Joy. It's just a little storage drawer with an easel card top. I didn't take a photo of it fully completed but the drawer pull was three decorative flat buttons put together with embroidery thread which was threaded through a small flat button on the inside of the drawer.

I was so happy with the concept that I made an easel ATC for an internet swap.

TFL.

Card Challenge at Colour Create

2010-11-08T16:49:00.000+10:00

Every second Thursday there is a new challenge at Colour Create. Challenge No. 56 was to use Aqua, Purple and White (with optional swirls). I really like this combination so I decided to make a card using the recipe (just for my own satisfaction, not to enter the challenge -too scary- so much talent out there in Blogland).

You Are The Best.

Supplies:

Patterned Paper- Urban Lily

Copics- (E43,47), (E50, 51, 53), (BG10,15), (B60,63)

Ink- Memento Tuxedo Black, Versa Boysenberry

Stamps- C.C. Designs Balloon Emma (my favourite at the moment), Sentiment by Studio G.

Flower & ribbon unknown.

TFL.

October Card Sketch Challenge

2010-10-26T12:32:00.002+10:00

Alicia has the October sketch challenge up on her blog here and this is the card I've made.

I've coloured it with a combination of water colour pencils and copics.
Supplies used:
Patterned Paper - Basic Grey Urban Prairie, Bittersweet and Eva.
Copics - (E50, 51, 53), (E42, 47), (RV02, 04)
Ink - Memento Tuxedo Black, Versa colour Raspberry.
Stamps - C.C. Designs Balloon Emma, Sentiment -Laughing Moon.

Although I'm only a beginner at using copics I'm really happy with this effort.

Scraps, Free Blocks and Stampin' Up

2010-10-22T17:42:00.002+10:00

I went to a Stampin' Up party yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed myself while making a card (Please note the gorgeous mini library clip on the tag!) Some how managed to glue some bits on back the front but what the heck. I went with every intention of ordering some punches but somehow I ended up ordering another stamp set (of course). They have some fabulous sets and when I win Lotto I'll buy them all.

Stampin' Up Christmas card

Another thing I've managed to do is make the first block of my scrap quilt. Yay! One down and who knows how many to go.

First scrap block

The Janome shop 'Free Block Frenzy' Block Number 4 was another thing crossed off my To Do list There are another six blocks to go and I think it will look pretty good when it's finished.

Block # 4.

I'm glad I finished it on time because tomorrow is take and show day in order to receive my next free pack. I did cut it a bit fine. It's also patchwork day at my local group, Port Curtis Patchwork, so it promises to be a busy day.

New Background

2010-10-18T22:23:00.000+10:00

Decided to change my background again courtesy of The Background Fairy, and I've been having fun (no, really) fiddling with all the fine details. Since I'm not really computer literate it can be a little frustrating at times, so I think I need to call it a day and come back tomorrow nice and refreshed.

Refreshing photos from Dreamworld

Copic Classes

2010-10-18T09:04:00.000+10:00

I'm really enjoying the copic classes at Scrapbook Fantasies. Alicia is so talented and an excellent tutor, we always have a great time in class. I really need to do more practice at home, but I'm pretty happy with my progress.

Light source shading

Texture

Card (Scrapbook Fantasies design) with Feather Blended rabbit

I've also done skin and hair colouring classes but haven't photographed them yet. That's for another day.

Girls' Night In

2010-10-17T22:55:00.003+10:00

Last night was a Girls' Night In get together at Joys' house. Although it was small, we had a lovely time. Scrapbooking, great company, good food and coffee and a little bit of fundraising for cancer research. Definitely well worth it (although it was pretty cold going home at midnight).

Joy

Donna

There is no photo of the youngest member of our party (Joys' grandaughter) who started out scrapping, but couldn't quite go the distance and curled up on the lounge for a snooze.

Jelly Rolls

2010-10-16T11:41:00.004+10:00

I've known about Jelly Rolls for some time but since I haven't been sewing much I've never gotten into them. Since the quilting retreat has renewed my enthusiasm I've bought myself a Jelly Roll, co-ordinating Layer Cake and Charm Squares. My friend Joyce has also bought Jelly Rolls, so along with our other friend Marilyn we may have a Jelly Roll weekend coming up in the not too distant future.

Moda 'Garden Party'

One of Joyce's UFO projects at the Retreat. A Lisa Walton kit, 'Power of Three'. Doesn't it look fantastic? The hand dyed fabric is gorgeous.

Power of Three

More Scraps

2010-10-11T20:58:00.001+10:00

My collection of squares and rectangles continues to grow. I was up at 6.30 am. this morning, started cutting straight away, and had a nice little pile by breakfast time.

Up until now I've been cutting up my collection of charm squares, but needed more lights (512 for an 8 block x 8 block quilt) so it was time to tackle my lights scrap box.

Scraps from the box

What a mess

Why oh why didn't I trim those scraps as I went, instead of just stuffing them in the box! Now I'm being quite ruthless and any scrap smaller than 2" goes in the rubbish.

The overflow

Some of the scraps brought back memories. The scraps (above) were trimmed from the end of the strip pieced set used in my 'Hidden Wells' quilt. I made this at my second Retreat (1997) in a Joyce Carter workshop. It's still one of my favourite quilts.

Hidden Wells

Since g.g.s. Zachary has now returned home I have had to clean up my mess and will have to be more organised. :-0

Zachary

2010-10-10T23:34:00.003+10:00

Zachary and friends

Scraps

2010-10-09T20:48:00.002+10:00

I had a lovely time today visiting my good friend Marilyn. I took my container of scraps with me and spent the afternoon cutting and increasing my pile of 2.5" squares for this quilt. It's amazing how much work you can get done when you're in the company of friends. We never run out of things to talk about, even when we've just seen each other the day before.

Marilyn-C.Q. Retreat 2010-'Playtime Cards'

Best Blog

2010-10-08T00:01:00.002+10:00

I came across this while blog hopping. I found it totally amusing and I just love it. Check it out.

I'm watching 'Hellboy' on T.V. at the moment and really enjoying it (extremely impressed by the exploding monsters). I think I'm just a big kid at heart.

Cards and Quilts

2010-10-06T23:35:00.001+10:00

Telstra have finally updated their technical support for Apple's latest operating system which means, at last, my computer has a wireless connection. What freedom, to be able to carry my laptop anywhere in the house with no messy cords to get in the way. Now I just need to work out how to install my printers' wireless connection.

This is the card I made for Alicia's September card sketch challenge. I'm really happy with it.

I love the little bird on a branch, which is from a Stampin' Up! set 'A Touch of Nature'.

It's really quiet here at the moment because Jastine and Zachary are down the coast for a short break. This means I can leave my sewing supplies spread all over the dining table and not worry about little fingers. A week of sewing at the retreat has energized me and I've been busy cutting 2.5" squares with a view to making a scrap quilt. I think I only need to cut several hundred more and I'll be finished! Time to change my cutter blade.

Retreat Fatigue

2010-10-02T21:17:00.006+10:00

I've just returned from my annual week long quilting retreat in Rockhampton. It was really great to catch up with old friends. I even managed to get some sewing done. This year I decided to work on my UFO pile, and was able to complete the top I started in a Jan Phillips 'Freedom' workshop in 2008.

The workshop featured freehand rotary cutting and curved piecing, and the top went together quite quickly. Just need to quilt it now!

Another project I managed to finish was my shabby chic table runner.

This was the first time I'd made Prairie Points and I really like the effect. Another quilting job to be done.

I also managed to finish my third issue for Free Block Frenzy.

Block #3.

Block #2

Block #1

Missing in Action

2010-08-02T00:39:00.002+10:00

I just can't believe how long it is since the last time I was here. Life has been so very busy that blogging has had to take a back seat (way back!). Great Grandson Zach is growing like a weed and is, of course, just the most gorgeous little man. Oh to have so much energy.

Fortunately he goes to daycare every day or Grammy would be completely bonkers.

Daughter Jastine is on the home stretch to complete her Thesis, then they will be moving back down to the Gold Coast. They will have been with us for two years and no doubt will leave a huge gap in our lives.

I have managed to do some papercrafting. Here are some ATC"S I've made for swapping on StampHappy internet swap group.

Scrapbook Fantasies, my local shop, is running Copic marker classes and I decided I need to do them because the cards I've been seeing on other blogs are just gorgeous. Have a look at My Creative Slice & Geri's Cards to see what I mean. I've only done three classes so far but they're great fun and a good way to de-stress.

The other thing I've been doing is participating in Free Block Frenzy mystery quilt at Janome Gladstone. The idea is that you pay $15 at the first session, sit through the demo and receive your 1st block pack, come back to the next session with your finished block, sit through the demo and receive your next block pack for free. If you miss a session you can purchase a pack for $15. It runs for ten months, so it's possible to make all ten blocks for $15 with the option of buying a kit for sashing and borders at the end. My aim is to make every block on time and enjoy some sewing as I haven't been doing much of that lately.

Using supplies and tools

2010-01-10T18:31:00.003+10:00

One week into the new year and I've managed to make a couple of ATC's using supplies I've had for a long time but never opened. I bought some walnut ink crystals about 4 years ago and have always been afraid to use them. I don't know why, but it's the same with my heat gun and embossing powder. However one (?) of my New Year's resolutions is to boldly go where I've never gone before and don't be intimidated by my tools. What's the worst that can happen? I don't know yet but I'm sure I'll find out.
Here are the cards I made using my walnut ink for the first time.

Family

Stampit stamp used with blue archival ink on the torn dyed background. This was mounted on cork and then blue basil base. I added a small red heart brad and a plain red brad.

Time Together

Another Stampit stamp used with blue archival ink on dyed torn background, mounted on blue basil. A small dragonfly brad was added for an accent.

Quiet Christmas

2009-12-28T21:13:00.002+10:00

Another Christmas has come and gone. Very quiet this year as it was just hubby and I. The kids were all elsewhere, two daughters and g.gs Zach spending Christmas in Ormeau, one daughter in Cairns, two sons in Brisbane and one son working on Heron Island (lucky devil). It's bucketing down outside at the moment, perfect weather for working on my ATC's. Here are some Christmas cards made for a swap.

Christmas Wishes

Happy Holidays 2

New Computer

2009-12-20T10:18:00.000+10:00

I'm sitting in front of my brand new computer (actually, I've had it for a couple of weeks), and it is fantastic. It's a 13 1/2" Macbook Pro, so slim, so compact, so light and SO FAST, such a pleasure to use. I had an Apple computer years ago and never had any problems with it, so when it was time to get a new one, there was no question about the brand. Of course, after about 7 years of using Microsoft operating systems I have a lot to learn and I think playing is the best way to do that ( I do so love to play on the computer). The trouble is once you're on the computer and start reading other people's blogs you're lost. There are so many talented and innovative people out in cyberspace I never tire of following their exploits.

Double Trouble

2009-12-19T18:31:00.002+10:00

We had a little visitor last week, and boy did he keep us on our toes. Noah, our oldest great grandson, came to stay for several days. He is 5 months older than Zachary, our other great grandson(who lives with us). Noah was born in July 2007, and Zach on 1st Nov 2007. They had a great time together, but they have completely different personalities. Noah is very outgoing, needs lots of attention and is a real ham. Zach is a little quieter and is often happy to play on his own. They are both absolutely gorgeous ( I know, I'm biased). Zach used to call me Grammy, but this has gradually changed to Mammy (makes you feel like bursting into song, doesn't it?), so now this is what Noah calls me.

Noah and Zachary

New tricks

2009-12-19T11:50:00.001+10:00

Oh my goodness, I've learned how to add a clock to my blog, and I think I've just learned how to add a link! (It's hard being computer illiterate!) Now I'll just try it & see if it works. Why not pop on over for the Dec challenge at Inkurable Stampers. There are some great prizes up for grabs.

Birthday Card

2009-12-16T08:42:00.007+10:00

I needed to make a birthday card for my daughter, who turns 28 today. The colour scheme of pink, brown & cream, (Inkurable Stampers Dec challenge) really appealed to me, so here is my challenge card 'Best Friends'. I'm really happy with it.

Inkurable Stampers

2009-12-05T18:06:00.006+10:00

Wow, I just had to post and tell you that I won a prize on Inkurable Stampers.
It's a fabulous set of large border stamps from Crafty Individuals. All because I left a comment on Sarah's site. I'm excited and can't wait to start using them on my cards. Inkurable Stampers is a great site that has regular challenges and plenty of giveaways, it's well worth a visit so pop on over and check it out.

ATC's and free stuff

2009-12-02T05:42:00.007+10:00

Two months have flown by since I was last here. I haven't done any sewing but I'm all set up and ready to go because my lovely husband bought me a Janome sewing table specifically designed for my 6500. It's really solid, so no more table jump when I get going. It's a bit hard to organise sewing time with our resident great grandson entering the terrible two's. Tantrums can blow up suddenly, then blow over just as quick. Distraction is the order of the day, and supervision and monitoring are our favourite words. Here are some photos of Zach enjoying his birthday cake.

I have managed to fill my creative need by making ATC's, and participating in swaps with my on-line groups and local shop Scrapbook Fantasies.

I have just been on Lisa Volroths site where she is again offering her free images available for downloading until Christmas. They are great for ATC's, and who doesn't enjoy freebies.

Retreat Fatigue 2009

2009-10-05T21:35:00.001+10:00

What a slack little blogger I've been. Life has been very busy as I have been involved with the committee who organize our annual C.Q. Quilter's retreat in Rockhampton. Five fabulous days of sewing, friendship and fun. It has been fantastic to catch up with friends that we only see once a year, and sad to have to say goodbye again. Lots of sewing, chatting and the occasional drink can be very tiring and I have been taking lots of 'nanna' naps. I did an applique class with Angela Langdon from Brisbane, and actually almost finished a block.

machine applique 2009

2009-10-05T20:44:00.008+10:00

Some of the students displaying their machine applique from the Angela Langdon workshop, 2009.

Goodbye June, Hello July

2009-06-28T18:37:00.007+10:00

I thought I should find the time to touch base before the end of June, because I haven't been here since the beginning of May. Since then I have taken two of my grandchildren to Brisbane to spend a couple of days with their Auntie. We took two cars to fit in the six of us (Myself, two daughters, two g.children and one great g.son). I had to follow my daughter to the other side of Brisbane (actually, roughly 100 kms the other side to Ormeau), We crossed the Gateway bridge 3.30pm Friday afternoon in what seemed to be peak hour! I have to say I was terrified driving between two large trucks, trying to keep on my daughter's tail and not get lost. I found out when we arrived that my right indicator wasn't working. This explains why people weren't happy when I changed lanes. lol. We had a lovely time, visiting Harbour Town (Oh those shops!), Sea world (Polar bears and dolphins, :-). sharks, :-0), the kids went to the Hyperdome but I stayed home and had a much needed rest. Of course Zach (g.g son) stayed home with me but slept the whole time. I did have a great time and surprised myself by handling all the walking at Sea world surprisingly well since I still can't walk smoothly (after hip replacement), but sure was glad to be home again. I'm off to check in with some of my internet groups now, but I will try to be back again before the end of June.

Dreamworld

Winter Chills.

2009-05-04T15:51:00.002+10:00

Well the cooler weather has arrived and brought with it the usual coughs and colds. Zachary has been off day care for a week with tonsillitis, runny nose etc. My daughter Jen had to have two days off work with a chest infection, and now they seem to have passed their germs on to me. Looks like I'll have to lay in a supply of tissues for now, and hope it doesn't last too long.
I had a visit from an old friend on Friday, which was lovely as we haven't seen each other for quite some time. During our conversation we realized that it has been 6 years since she moved away. Oh boy, where did that time go! She brought me up to date on all the work she has been doing, quilting etc. She really is a high achiever, and a lovely lady with it. Makes me feel quite inspired. Maybe even enough to get out my sewing machine. We'll see how it goes.

What happened to April?

2009-05-04T15:33:00.003+10:00

This is my page for another challenge from SBF's. Every day for a month Alicia posts a clue on the forum and you have to search the online store for the answer. At the end of the month you have 10 days to complete and upload your page. Another enjoyable challenge.
I'm not sure what happened to April. It disappeared without a trace. I can't believe I didn't have time to visit and update my blog.
I did manage to do some scrapbooking though. This is my page for a create-a-layout challenge on the forum of Scrapbook Fantasies, my favourite local srapbook shop. The idea is that someone starts a list of items to be included in a layout. Anybody is welcome to add to the list until there are twenty items on it, then you have a week to finish and upload your layout. It's a bit of fun trying to fit 20 items on a page.

Todddlers and the end of peace & quiet.

2009-03-30T20:24:00.005+10:00

At the moment our eldest daughter is caring full time for her grandson (our great grandson), Zach. Last year she moved home for emotional and physical support. So our once peaceful existence has been invaded by a beautiful 14 month old boy, full of energy, mischief and occasional temper tantrums. How I managed to raise 7 children, I'll never know. It's exhausting trying to keep up with him. Of course I was younger then (a lot younger!). But having a toddler in the house certainly brightens up the day, although it means I have less time for crafting. I have managed to do a little bit of work on my year quilt (that's 2007) that I started with Southern Cross Quilters/Year Quilt internet group. It's all hand stitched hexagons, and I have now almost finished work on my March block. The project involves keeping a diary for a year, and choosing an 'eye spy' fabric to represent something from each day. You can choose any pattern you like for your quilt. I may not be up to date with my blocks yet, but I did manage to keep my diary for the whole of 2007, so I'm able to refer back to it any time.

St Patrick's Day

2009-03-03T17:57:00.003+10:00

I haven't had much time lately to add to the blog. A lot of things have been happening in my life, some good & some bad.
I've been working on ATC swaps and not much else.
I've just been to Lisa Volrath's original printables site and checked out her new countdown to St. Patrick's Day. Looks like it will be as great as her other downloads. Pop over and check it out.
Saint Patrick's day just happens to be my grandson Dylan's birthday. He turns 18 this year.

Catching Up

2009-02-02T21:14:00.004+10:00

Here's my quilt 'Hidden Wells', which is actually finished. I'm not sure how I can rotate it, as it's horizontal instead of vertical.

I have been so busy that I haven't had time to post until now. We were away on holidays, which was terrific, but it means I have a lot of catching up to do in my everyday routine.
I am participating in several challenges being run by Scrapbook Fantasies, my favorite local scrapbooking shop. I went along to their card club on Saturday for the first time. It was a very interesting experience, and I'm hoping it will help me with my stamping techniques. As well as that I am taking part in a few ATC swaps via groups on the internet.
The free Christmas downloads on the TenTwo Studio website were great and Lisa Vollrath is now offering her free Valentine's Day downloads again. 27 images spread over 14 days, from the 1st Feb to the 14th. Pop over and have a look around. You won't be disappointed.

Children's Movies and Philosophy

2008-12-09T22:44:00.003+10:00

Today I watched the children's movie "Kung Fu Panda" for the first time. I absolutely loved it!! Below the surface (for me anyway), it had a deeper philosophical message, 'believe in yourself', that I found really appealing. I also heard something that I have heard before- 'Yesterday is history, Tomorrow is a mystery, Today is a gift, that's why it's called the present'. It gave me goosebumps. I just love kids movies. Roll on the school holidays!

UFO for which month?

2008-12-01T23:02:00.005+10:00

All right, all right. I know I'm behind in posting my ufo's for each month. I'm not sure which month this one is for. It's called 'Fractured Circles', and I did it in a Lessa Siegele class at the Patchwork Retreat I attend each year.

New Link, Same Old Me

2008-12-01T22:37:00.006+10:00

OK, this is me sitting in my craft room, trying to decide which one of my many, many projects to work on. It can be very difficult. I know the things I should be working on, but somehow there's always something else to catch my eye (sigh). I wish I could be as dedicated and hard working as some people whose blogs I have read, but I don't seem to have that iron core of discipline. Never mind, life is short and I just try to enjoy every day.
I have added a link to Lisa Vollrath's site where she has a Christmas countdown - each day a new image is posted to download. All she asks is that you post a link to a group or on your blog. There is also other fun stuff to download all year round on this site so you might want to do a little exploring while you are there.

The girls of 'Girl's Night In'

2008-11-14T07:06:00.003+10:00

A likely looking bunch.

My Off The Page project

2008-11-14T06:42:00.004+10:00

This is my off-the-page project that I made for the Girl's Night In.
I used a laminate sample, leftover from our home renovations. I painted it, front & back, added a rub-on and stickers and sealed it with two coats of dimensional magic. I stuck three buttons to the dimensional magic as it was drying. When it was completely dry I added a key chain fitting.
The rub-on says "Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love time is eternity."

Bras, g-strings and other pretty things.

2008-10-19T15:17:00.003+10:00

I had a terrific night out last night, or should I say Night In. I was lucky enough to be invited by the lovely and energetic Joy Skaines, to her 'Girls Night In' event. Our numbers were small, but the money raised will go to a good cause, and who knows it might just be the amount needed to make a breakthrough in breast or cervical cancer research. Everyone was asked to bring a pink off-the-page item for show. What creative & talented ladies they all were. The items on show were fantastic, with bras being the obvious favourite, from Margaret's flower and jewel encrusted work of art, to Joy's s sassy bra (complete with tassels) and g-string combination. Among the items were books, clocks, canvasses, more bras, boxes etc (waiting to see the tin that was left at home). My tiny contribution was a key ring, but since it was my first off-the-page venture, I didn't feel too bad. The night was made even better by the raffle prizes contributed by an 'anonymous' donor. Did I mention that Alicia, owner of our local shop 'Scrapbook Fantasies' was there, along with her lovely mother Margaret(whose pink scones were delicious). Each participant received a beautiful container full of flowers and buttons from generous Joy Kennedy, which was a super surprise. I think I need to go for a 'nanna' nap now to recover from all that frivolity.

August Quilt

2008-10-16T12:04:00.004+10:00

I'm not adding a U.F.O. this month (That's right, this one is actually a Finished Object). Since August is my birth month, I'm adding my favourite quilt. It's a Jewel Box quilt with sashings, and I just love the colours. Can't quite remember what year I made this quilt. I'll have to check and get back to it.

Operations & Independence

2008-10-14T19:58:00.004+10:00

Well my hip replacement operation has come and gone (as well as two months), and what a difference it has made. One day after the operation, they had me out of bed and walking, using a frame. Where I expected there to be a lot of pain, there was none (just the tenderness around the incision). Six weeks after the op I was off to a patchwork retreat for five days. Although my hip gave me no problems, I did overdo it a little in the walking department. My feet just weren't used to having to do so much, and I had to retire to bed where my wonderful friends waited on me hand & foot (ha ha). I am recovered now and I am walking just using one crutch, soon to be just a walking stick. It's fantastic to have my independence back. I went to patchwork on Saturday (first time since op) which was really great. Today I went shopping at my local scrapbook shop (also first time since op) for some supplies to do an off the page project for a 'Girls Night In', on Saturday night. Should be a fun night as well as helping a good cause.

Shops and Swaps and B.O.M.'s

2008-07-18T23:30:00.006+10:00

I can't believe so much time has gone by since I last posted. I'm not sure where the time goes, but go it does.
Yesterday was a busy day for me. First a trip to the library to replenish my supply of books and D.V.D.'s. We have a lovely new library and it's always a pleasure to visit, however it is quite large and there is a lot of walking between sections. Then I went shopping for new nighties, in preparation for a hospital stay. Although tatty nighties are O.K. for home, I don't want to be seen in public wearing rag bag rejects. Another large area to cover, though the 30% off sale made it a little bit easier to accomplish. By end of day I was totally worn out and needed a nap to recover. That was probably more exercise than I've had all year.
I'm off for a total hip replacement operation on August 5th. I'm a bit nervous, but my specialist in Bundaberg, Dr Delaney, seems really nice and I have every confidence in him.
Since I am often in a great deal of pain at the moment and can only get around with the help of my trusty walker, my sewing is limited. Never the less, I am still working on my SCQuilter's block swap. This month's swap theme is "Mother animals and their babies". I am working on a dolphin with her baby. Next month's blocks, which just arrived in the mail, are "Dragons", and they are lovely (mainly purple and gold-very effective).
Although it's nearly midnight I'm having fun blog hopping. I've just been on Lynette Anderson's lovely site. I have downloaded the free B.O.M. -Noah's Ark, and have traced some onto my fabric, but that's as far as I've gone(what else is new-another u.f.o. in the making? I hope not).
Still trying to work out how to customize, but it's all guesswork at the moment.

2008-07-09T13:16:00.001+10:00

This is a mystery quilt made online with the Southern Cross Quilters.
Burgundy Beauty

U.F.O.'s or Works not in Progress

2008-07-09T12:58:00.000+10:00

I've decided to post a U.F.O. of the month, every month until I run out (which should take a while).
This might embarrass me into finishing a few things, though I doubt it. If the ridicule of my friends doesn't make me, then nothing will.
The first quilt is Burgundy Beauty, which started out on the 29/3/03, yes that's right, 2003!(Wait, I have much older ones than that, but that's for another time).
It was designed and taught by my clever and talented friend, Lorraine McMahon, as mystery quilt no. 8. on the SCQuilters mystery quilt group. I really like it, and one of these day's I will finish it.
I have spent all morning trying to customize this darn blog, but what a complicated thing it is. I would like to be able to see all of my spinning cube at the same time. It shows some of my challenge pages from my local scrapbook shop-Scrapbook Fantasies.
Why can't computers be simple?

Patchwork Retreat

2008-07-08T08:07:00.002+10:00

Rockhampton Grammar School

This is really just an experiment. I'm not sure if I'm capable of, or have the time to keep a blog up to date. It's just a way of documenting my non progress in my busy quilting, scrapping. reading. watching movies kind of life.
At the moment I am participating in an on line quilt block swap with the SCQuilters, two different challenges at my local scrapbooking shop-Scrapbook Fantasies -(one is a Book of Me challenge, and the other is a conditional challenge following set out guidelines.)
I also have to finish an appliqued house block and a batch of A.T.C.'s for our annual quilter's retreat 10 year celebration.
The retreat is held in Rockhampton, Central QLD, during the Sept/Oct school holidays. It is held at the Rockhampton Grammar School, which is an ideal location. The classrooms are great, the accommodation is in single rooms, the grounds are beautiful (including the huge swimming pool) and the food is fantastic. We can work all day with tutors from around Australia, and then go on to catch up with old friends, drink and party all night if we want to (actually most of our ladies go to bed at a decent hour, it's only the hard core old chooks that stay up and party).
Sounds great to me.
At the moment I really should be working on my scrapbook challenge for this week. Why do I always leave it til the last minute to do it? I always say I work better under pressure, but I'm not sure if that's true.