Scraps of Denny

Three posts in a month????

2011-05-25T19:44:00.005+01:00

Yes, I'm blogging AGAIN!! lol! These pictures show a "never-ending" card that I managed to make in 3 hrs last night. My dear hubby informed me that it was a colleague's 30th birthday TODAY! (and could I pleeeease make a never-ending card, as they're his favourite!) So... not to be beaten (and again, still needing to be creative to keep me sane) I rose to the challenge.

I used some My Minds Eye papers that I'd had in my stash for some considerable time and some vinyl and flock thickers for the greeting and her name. The following 3 pages feature more My Minds Eye papers and I used lots of flowers and bling from my stash too. The bird label and the butterfly stamp are Stampin Up.

(Unfortunately the colour is a bit "off" in a few of
the photos, I'd say picture 2 shows the best idea of the colours.)

I really enjoyed making the card, but I'm guessing now I've met hubby's challenge, i've let myself in for a few more "last-minute" requests! Oh dear! lol

Here's some pages I made earlier....

2011-05-16T19:37:00.014+01:00

Today has been a rough day, my MS symptoms have been driving me bananas!!.... so, in an attempt to keep the sanity intact, I've been looking back at the scrapping that I did at the end of April.

I was determined at the time, and still am, to really USE my much loved, and hoarded stash!

The first couple of LO's were done using the Sarah's Cards April Kit , which features Echo Park, For the Record papers.

The boys look very smart in this first LO, don't they?

Then.. their true personalities came, rockin' on out!! lol!!

This year is the first time I've subscribed to the Basic Grey Page of The Month Kit, through Kate at Cre8tive Online. (Thanks so much to Sarah and Michele, who recommended them to me.)

The first kit I did was the March kit, which features the Life of The Party papers and embellishments. The bunting was a little challenging for me to cut out, but the LO was soooo much fun to do... T'was a rare LO about me too!

The April POTM kit, featuring Hello Luscious papers and embellies, was perfect for a LO of our Great Niece's dedication...Now to look forward to the next kits, keeping my mind busy, and chasing those MS symptoms away.... Here's hoping! TFL. x

So... me thinks we've established that I'm NOT a regular blogger!

2011-05-08T11:32:00.006+01:00

Hello there... well yes, I know, it's been a while! lol

I kept myself busy yesterday, in an attempt to keep sane... the old MS seems to have reared its head a little, and I have fizzy legs and bum. (sorry if that's TMI!) Anyway... as I said, I kept busy, and here's what I've been up to:

I got the idea to do this from my dear buddy, Jules, who decorated her printer tray at my house a while back. I bought the printer tray on ebay. Mark cleaned it up for me, and I've decorated it with Cosmo Cricket's Circa 1934 papers. (I just adore Cosmo papers! Don't you?) Once my yellow ink cartridge has arrived in the post, (she says, impatiently tapping her fingers, itching to scrap!) I'll be adding some family photos and memorabilia to it.

To keep the theme going, I decorated this too:

This was also done with Cosmo Cricket Circa 1934 papers, and the words were inked and covered in diamond glaze, to make 'em nice n' glossy. The base kit was a "Tando Creative" kit, and a gift from another lovely buddy, Jane. Thanks hun!

I've done a fair few scrapbook pages recently too, but need to get busy with my camera, before I can upload piccies of those too. Thanks for looking! xx

True Stories :: Putting Pen to Paper

2010-10-25T10:15:00.000+01:00

I'm starting this class today. I'm hoping that it improves my scrapping journalling, but also that it encourages me to express myself better.... Since my MS diagnosis, in 2007, I've found that putting my thoughts on paper help a lot... and if done regularly really helps how I feel about things, but, unfortunately, I'm just not very good at keeping a regular diary. Fingers crossed this is the encouragement that I need! No pressure!! lol!

Dance in the Rain!

2010-10-25T10:00:00.002+01:00

I've been wanting to make this canvas, ever since I bought the set of Tim Holtz sentiment stamps, which includes this message. Yesterday I finally got round to it!! The embellishments I used came from the May Scrapagogo kit, and I used Versamagic inks for the background.

Thanks for looking!

Overdue blog again!

2010-10-25T09:00:00.000+01:00

This double page layout, was made a few weeks ago, for a challenge on UKS. The challenge was to use scenic photos, stamping on the page and to "mix up the lettering" in some way. When we were in Lyme Regis in August (on an extremely wet and windy day) I decided to take lots of photos - with the intention of doing just such a layout!

I enjoyed using my new Bazzill jewel templates... plus some rafia type ribbon that I'd had in my stash for a verrrry long time!!

Thanks for looking!

Regular posting.... erm, not exactly!!

2010-08-21T23:51:00.005+01:00

Hi y'all.... well, I actually scrapped today... for the first time in ages, so I thought I should celebrate, by putting a piccie on my blog.

It was for the weekly challenge on UK Scrappers... The challenge was to use pink or blue, bunting, 3 of something and to have a celebration theme. I've just joined a new team on there, called "Mojo Hunters." I thought getting more involved would be good for my motivation!!

I've also been doing a lot of cross stitch lately. My Mum's 80th birthday was in June, and I made this for her....

It was challenging to do, to say the least, but well worth it. Mum loves it. :-)

I've finished a couple of other cross stitch projects, but one's waiting for framing and the other to be made into a cushion for no. 2 son!

Thanks for looking. x

Blog posts like London buses.......

2010-02-20T15:56:00.003Z

None for ages... then 3 in one day!! lol!! I made this card for Mark's nephew's birthday. I found the idea for this style of card (a stand-up card) online- but unfortunately I can't remember where (so apologies to whoever's idea this was, and thank you!) I adapted a Magnolia image (he normally carries champagne) with a Papermania Clare Curd clear stamp of beer.... much more to his taste!! lol!!

Used more Basic grey paper here, and some rather wonderful Martha Stewart punches. Hope you like the card... thanks for looking. x

More cards....

2010-02-20T15:13:00.003Z

Time, as always, flies... and several days ago, our eldest, Ethan, celebrated his 11th birthday. He loves police cars and fire engines... so I made this card for my Mum to give him.

This one's from me and his Dad: Ethan loves cars too... and it HAD to be a green one!! lol!! The image is by Elzybells, and the cardstock is part of the Cosmo Cricket Cogsmo range.

The final card I made for Ethan was from his brother. I used another Elzybells stamped image, coloured with Promarkers. The cardstock is part of the Scenic Route Metropolis range... part of a very old Scrummy Stash kit!

Unfortunately, as I've been poorly, we weren't able to go out for Ethan's birthday, but his Dad took him to the Lego shop to spend his birthday money (which was rapidly burning a hole in his pocket!) and he opted for a chinese takeaway, which we all enjoyed together.

A light at the end of the tunnel....

2010-02-20T14:05:00.003Z

I've been a bit poorly again, and, as ever, crafting has been my sanity saver.... and when I've felt able to, I've made cards. Today is my niece, Natalie's, birthday. (HAPPY BIRTHDAY NAT!) I made this from me and the fellas, using a Magnolia image (coloured with promarkers). The patterned paper is from the Wisteria collection by Basic Grey.

I made this card for Natalie from my Mum. I used my Art Institue glitters, which, up until now, had been sadly underused, and the papers are again from the Basic Grey, Wisteria collection.

Been having fun making cards again....

2010-01-25T15:57:00.004Z

I made this card for my Mum to give to my niece for her 22nd birthday (which is today - Happy Birthday Carly!). It's called a trifold shutter card and I learnt how to make it using a great tutorial here - although I altered the measurements to use A4 card.

Just a short post today... as i'm off to work tonight.... and as always running short of time. More cards to follow tomorrow. Thanks for looking!

The Bad Blogger is back!!

2010-01-18T13:09:00.005Z

Helloooo!! OK... no excuses, I'm a bad blogger! I'm hoping, along with some dear online buddies to blog on a regular basis this year. I've not made any New Year's resolutions... 'cos we all know what happens to those... so let's call them Lifestyle choices/changes, shall we?!

Another hope is to craft lots more... so yesterday I spent some time making a "never-ending card".... to be honest it felt never ending when I was making it, but in a good way, as there are soooo many surfaces to decorate!! lol!! I got the instruction from an issue of Cardmaking and Papercraft Mag (just checked, it was July '09)

Here are the piccies, would love to hear your comments... Thanks for looking. (especially after all this time!! lol)

Some Gorgeous Autumn Colour!

2009-10-06T01:59:00.003+01:00

Well, as anyone who still reads this blog will know, I didn't do so well with keeping up with the photo a day project...!! Anyhow, in an attempt to re-kindle my photography mojo, I took this photo this other day, of a dahlia in my garden.... isn't the colour just luscious, and so cheerful after such a grey, grotty day !!

I've been doing some blog-hopping and found this amazing blog candy http://crafterskitchen.blogspot.com/2009/09/amazing-blog-candy.html ... fab, isn't it?!! :-)

Best laid plans....

2009-09-29T22:53:00.002+01:00

Well, I know I said I'd be blogging more often again, but a little bit of an MS relapse put paid to that!! Note to self... never tell the devil your mind!! lol!! Anyhow, I'm starting to feel better now, which will hopefully continue (fingers crossed!). The past few days, yet again, crafting has saved my sanity whilst I've been at home "confined to barracks" and I've made a start on making Christmas cards.

Only problem is, online shopping has led me to all sorts of retail therapy!! lol!! I've bought some gorgeous Squiggle stamps and having visited several other sites of yummy crafty goodness, the postie will be bringing me a few other parcels over the next few days. (Shhhh!!!)

Right off to finish off the online food shopping... was going to try going to the supermarket in the morning, but have decided not to push my luck on the energy front, and will let the delivery guy take the strain! ;-) Bye for now. x

We Did It!!!

2009-09-07T00:00:00.005+01:00

Not only am I finally blogging again, (after HOW LONG????!!) but,I also took part in the Adidas Women's 5k Challenge in Hyde Park today. My cousin Karen volunteered herself to do it with me, and admits that a just few days before, she wondered what on earth she'd let herself in for!! lol!

My huge thanks to her, and to friends and family for their lovely support and, much appreciated, sponsorship!

The boys also got the chance of a medal, by taking part in the Kid's challenge, so Mark had to get a photo!

I suspect that I will ache like crazy tomorrow (even more than I do now! lol) but it was oh so worth it!

My fellas are back at school tomorrow, so it'll be a slow n' lazy start to the day for me, before my night shift

2009-04-30T22:41:00.002+01:00

Hellooooo! Yes, I know it's been an absolute age since I've blogged, but I'm lucky enough to have a few days off work and I want to get back to my scrapping life again..... It's been a loooong time!! I've got a store of photos on my camera for my photo a day project... there will be a gap i'm afraid, but i'm going to endeavour to carry on.

I'm so looking forward to going to a crop with my Lurvlie friends on Saturday. I'm sure it will be a wonderful day!

2009-02-02T13:25:00.002Z

A couple more snowy pics...

The "alien" plant... with a snowy centre!! lol!!

.... and it would seem that "Spud duck" has had a "spud duckling"

.. and they ventured out into the cold!!

Hope you're keeping warm, and cosy! Thanks for reading. x D x

2009-02-02T13:14:00.002Z

DAY THIRTY-THREE...

... and still it's snowing! Today's piccie was made by hubby putting his face into the snow..... brave.. or mad.. you decide!!! (He did say it was... errr.. refreshing!! lol!!)

I'll post some more snowy pictures in a mo. I'm not feeling so great today... so it's just as well I'm hibernating. The boys' school is closed.... and we're wondering whether Harrison's school trip to the Tower of London on Wednesday will go ahead... shame if it doesn't as he wants to see if the Queen's crown is "as good as his!!" lol!!

2009-02-01T18:30:00.002Z

DAY THIRTY-TWO...

.... and here's my little man after being awarded Player of the Match today!

Since he got home earlier today, we've had snow flurries, on and off, and it's started to settle this evening. I was considering going shopping for clothes for the boys tomorrow, but if it's still like this, I'm gonna carry on hibernating!! lol!.... Going out in the cold... or staying in, and playing with paper?????? Not such a tough decision!!!

Once again, thanks for reading... keep warm! luv D xx

2009-02-01T18:19:00.002Z

DAY THIRTY-ONE...

... and this is ME!! (Crikey... would you look at all that grey hair!!) Well apart from a couple of days, I've managed to take a photo every day... and I'm really enjoying it.

Off for some retail therapy with some Lurvlie friends today... fab!

2009-02-01T17:38:00.002Z

DAY THIRTY...

... and as the Grand Finale of the boy's school's Centenary celebrations, they held a fireworks display at a local secondary school.... The display was great, but it wasn't so great getting hit over the head by a child with a glowing light sabre!!! The force was NOT with me, and I was NOT happy!! (Made worse by the child's parents not even apologising, or making the child apologise!!)

2009-02-01T17:24:00.003Z

DAY TWENTY-NINE...

... and the picture of the day was taken, by my hubby, of Harrison at school! The school are celebrating their Centenary... and each year are learning about a decade of the school's history. Harrison's class learnt about the 1950's and the Queen's Coronation... They each designed and made their own crowns, and then each child had their own Coronation! They learnt lots about what happened during the ceremony... and what the items that were given to the Queen during the ceremony meant. They all had a thoroughly enjoyable time! Doesn't my little fella look regal!! lol!!

2009-01-28T17:45:00.006Z

DAY TWENTY-EIGHT...

... and yet another feline photo!! Maddie was snuggled up to the radiator, and I couldn't resist taking a piccie of her... I love the way she's peeping at me!! (Probably thinking..."there she is with her bloomin' camera again!!)

I'm off to work shortly, but have managed to squeeze some card making, and also some scrapping into my day again, for the Scrap Like You Mean It challenge... this week I had to follow a sketch.. not something that I feel I'm particularly good at... but it's good to have that comfort zone feel a little threatened!! lol!!

Here's the SLYMI Week 4 Challenge sketch:

... and here's the LO that I made, by following it...

I "flipped" the sketch onto it's side... so I could use the photos I had in mind. I rather enjoyed this, but now I've got to get myself ready for work. It's an overtime shift... so it's not all bad!

Thanks for looking, and I'll see you soon. BFN. D xx

2009-01-27T23:04:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY-SEVEN...

... and what a little poser this little lady is!! I think she saw the desperation in my eyes, to get my picture of the day!! lol!!

I worked today, and I'm working the next couple of nights, but I'm looking forward to the weekend. On Friday evening we're going to a firework display to celebrate the boys' school's 100th year! Then on Saturday, I will be enjoying a touch of retail therapy with some of my lurvlie friends.... whilst Mark, and the boys go to watch Ebbsfleet footie team play.

2009-01-26T16:45:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY-SIX...

I worked last night, so didn't really feel like venturing too far today (how lazy am I??!!) ... but I really wanted to get outside in the garden, to take some photos. I have to say it's looking a bit sad and neglected.... roll on Spring!!

I love the seed heads of the Fatsia Japonica, especially against the blue of our fence. I'm glad to have got my picture for the day... I was rather upset with myself for not taking any over the weekend. I've been looking at mobile phones which have a decent camera.... so I've always got the means to get a photo with me.... any excuse for a new gadget!! lol!!

2009-01-25T17:49:00.001Z

DAY TWENTY-FOUR & DAY TWENTY-FIVE...

Inspiration has left me over the past few days I'm afraid, but I hope to return tomorrow with energy, and enthusiasm.... and a photo!!

2009-01-23T21:17:00.003Z

DAY TWENTY-THREE...

... and I'm glad we've got this today!! It's become very chilly this evening!!

After my sleep this morning (after my night shift) I went to the library this afternoon, to collect the new Catherine Alliot book!! Being the first to read a library book is quite a treat!! lol!! I must finish "The Memory Garden" by Rachel Hore first. Yesterday I finished reading "The Dream House" also by Rachel Hore, and I can highly recommend it... a really lovely story. For all my hopes of getting creative today, I'm afraid the inspiration and energy fairies have left me!! It's been nice to relax after working a few nights though. Whilst relaxing, I've also been doing a bit of detective work, as I'm trying to remember, and record, the books that I loved as a child.... it's brought back some wonderful memories! I read an awful lot as a child, and my Mum was forever taking me to the library or a bookshop to keep me occupied!! lol!!

2009-01-22T17:36:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY-TWO...

... and my photo of the day is of this fab piece of artwork, by Ethan!! He hasn't finished it yet, but I just thought it was great! Such super pirates!!

Just a quick post for today, as I'm off to work tonight. The week 4 SLYMI challenge on UKS has been set today, to use a sketch, so I'm hoping to get that done tomorrow... and leave myself a little more time to time before the deadline!! lol! Once again, thanks for reading! D x

2009-01-22T17:30:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY-ONE..

... and a "2 for 1 deal" lol!! This was my entry for week 3 of the SLYMI challenge.. and also my photo of the day!

I love this picture of the boys... we'd just left Earls Court Exhibition Centre, having seen the fabulous Dr Who Exhibition. I called the boys, and they just turned, put their arms round each other, smiled... and snap.. picture taken!! (Don't you just love those moments!)

There are times when they argue... and drive me barmy, but there's no denying their closeness, and love for each other. :-)

2009-01-20T18:45:00.002Z

DAY TWENTY...

.... and would you look at those expressions of concentration!! lol!! My boys loved having a visit from their "baby cousin" ... and he loved spending time with them too!

An Historic day today... we've just watched the inauguration of the 44th President, Barack Obama.... and his incredibly inspiring and moving speech. Seeing the American public being interviewed, on the tv, they seem so optimistic about a better future... one can only hope that they're right.

2009-01-20T18:24:00.003Z

DAY NINETEEN... This is my photo for the day, and also my first photo for my "Snapshot of my Life 2009" project. The theme for this week for this project is "routine"... which kind of makes me giggle... because I'm not exactly the most organised of people.. and I don't really "do" routine!!! lol!!

The picture to the right is my attempt at the Scrap like you mean it challenge, which is running on UK Scrappers. This was for week 2, using stars, and shows Ethan when he played Mr Slugworth/Mr Wilkins in "Charlie's Chocolate Miracle" in his yr 5 production at school. He was wonderful... especially when he sang a solo! Such a proud Mummy moment!

2009-01-18T17:24:00.002Z

DAY EIGHTEEN... Well I'm pleased to say that I feel a lot better today. I've had another quiet day at home, so I'm ready for my day at work tomorrow.

Once again, having not felt like braving the elements to take photos outside, I've taken another indoor shot ... I had to have a bit of a think about my subject today. So...I started taking photos of everyday things from strange angles! lol!! (I'm not exactly technically minded, when it comes to photography - you may have noticed!! ) I rather like the effect of the movement underneath the clock-face, within the glass domed case, so this is my piccie of the day!

I'm not sure if we're heading for a power-cut tonight, but the lights keep flickering. I do hope not, 'cos I need my wireless headphones to keep me sane, whilst hubby "watches" the footie - by osmosis through his eyelids of course!! lol!! Mind you he's been doing his footie manager "thing" with his team this morning, and he's come home, done all the washing and ironing... and cooked a lovely roast dinner. So he deserves some zzzzzz's!!

2009-01-17T01:05:00.002Z

DAY SEVENTEEN... My "Secret Santa" at work gave me this mug, and a packet of biscuits for Christmas! Oh how well they know me!!! lol!!

I've had a relaxing day at home with my fellas today... and hopefully I'm on the mend. The bone-aching pain seems to have eased a great deal, and my eye's feeling a lot better too. Tomorrow should be another restful day, and with any luck I'll be back to work on Monday. Fingers crossed I just had some sort of "bug" and I'm not heading for a relapse!

I've been doing a lot of "blog-hopping" lately, and have got lots of ideas and inspiration for card-making and scrap book pages.... now I just need to find the time to put this all into practice!! lol!! I am still enjoying the photo a day challenge... and hope, over the next few weeks, to start lots more projects... watch this space to see how I get on, making a dent in my stash mountain!!! lol!!

2009-01-17T00:53:00.002Z

DAY SIXTEEN... and the photo of the day shows my little "tool kit" that comes out 3 times a week for my Rebif injection. At times it makes me feel like hell, to be polite, but it seems to be reducing the number of relapses that I have, and, in turn, should slow the possible progression of my condition.

I did worry about putting a picture of this on my blog for this project, but it IS part of my life.... only a small part though.... and I continue to strive to make it as small a part as possible.

2009-01-16T12:41:00.004Z

DAY FIFTEEN... I'm really not feeling so well, so just took the opportunity to grab a photo of Mabel curling up on my lap. There I was in my pj's and dressing gown... and luckily my camera was within reach!!

I've got to get my photo for today yet.... I'm determined to keep up.... but I think they'll be a few more indoor shots for a few days.

My balance is a bit "off" at the moment, and last night I stood up, and did a rather spectacular pirouette fall onto the settee, so I've had my orders from my lovely hubby to do very little today! Whether I am heading for a relapse, or not... I'm going to be good, and rest - I promise!

(I also promise to "keep my chin up... and not let it get me down!! )

Hopefully I'll be back later today, with today's photo... thanks for reading. D x

2009-01-14T16:06:00.002Z

DAY FOURTEEN... Woke up today with very achy legs, so decided to have a lovely bubbly bath... and ooh, it was lovely!! :-) Plus it gave me an idea for my photo of the day... phew!! lol!! I must get out and about for some more interesting pictures.... here's to the better weather!!

Speaking of the weather, It was sooo foggy this morning, and I'm hoping that it's not the same again for my shift tonight. I thoroughly enjoyed scrapping yesterday evening, and it was good to play with paper, and relax. Over the next few days, I'll get busy with the technology (ha ha) and get some piccies of my recent pages and cards that I've made on here too.

Now, I'm off to eat, then I'll be getting ready for my shift tonight. Once again, thanks for reading.. hopefully I'll see you tomorrow. D x

2009-01-13T19:41:00.003Z

DAY THIRTEEN...

... and it's felt like it should have been Friday the 13th today... it's just been one of "those" days!! Anyway, hubby whipped up some lovely "Italian" pasta salad, to go with pizza and wedges this evening... and I'm now having a nice cold beer... so the world is looking a brighter place!! lol!!

I'm "faffing" with cardstock and patterned paper now... yet again attempting to get that scrapping mojo revived... wish me luck!!

Thanks for reading! Loadsa luv Denny xx

2009-01-12T21:18:00.002Z

DAY 12... and it's choose a caption time!!!

"98,99, 100... coming, ready or not!!"

"You can't see me, can you?"

" I'm sorry, I'll stay in the naughty corner!"

It may well have a lot to do with being right next to the radiator, but Mabel took herself off into the corner, like she'd been told off!! lol!!

I had planned to scrap this afternoon, but the "after-night-shift-itis" has hit, and I'm in the mood to chillax... tomorrow is another day!! (I'm an A-grade procrastinator!!)

2009-01-11T18:14:00.001Z

DAY ELEVEN... and slightly lacking inspiration today.... my excuse is that I worked nights last night, and I'm working again tonight!

My Mum bought me some lovely Tulips the other day, and one of them has decided it hasn't got the strength to keep it's head up anymore!! So, I tried to take, what I think is called a "Bokeh" shot, whereby the background is all blurred... I think it worked quite well... Although I know I'm only using the auto settings on my DSLR so far, I would like to experiment a little. Hopefully I'll be a lot braver by the end of the year!! lol!!

Thanks for reading! x

2009-01-10T13:43:00.002Z

DAY TEN... Mark was about to peel some potatoes for lunch, when he found "Spud Duck!" I couldn't resist getting a picture for today. :-)

I'm working tonight, so all "no fog vibes" would be very much appreciated. It's been nice hearing the fog horns of ships over the past few days and not being at work, I have to say!

2009-01-09T21:43:00.002Z

DAY NINE... This morning we went to watch Harrison's school assembly about New Year's Resolutions! It was fantastic, and our boy was great (yes... I know I'm biased, but he was!!)

After it was finished I just had to take a photo of the wonderful old clock in the school hall. The school celebrates it's centenary this year... and I do wonder how old this lovely clock is! Plus I'm intrigued how it came to be in the school as it appears that it came from "The London and Dover Railway Company"

I'm really enjoying the Photo a day Challenge... and I love the way it's making me think about photography. I have still to get my "groove" back for scrapping, but I'm hoping it won't be too long before I'm enjoying that again. I have been making lots of cards lately, so at least I've still been playing with paper.... what can I say, I have to... It keeps me sane!! lol!!

To whoever's reading, thanks for looking! xx

2009-01-08T22:50:00.002Z

DAY EIGHT... Here's Merlin in his usual, content pose!! lol!! I missed out on a great photo of him, earlier in the day, when he was in the garden - and actually awake!! The sun was actually shining earlier, but since mid-afternoon we've had freezing fog! I am SOOOO glad I'm not at work... I do hate the fog!!

I've enjoyed my day off today, but I'm feeling very tired. I'll be up early tomorrow (well early for me on a day off!) as it's Harrison's class assembly. He told me - and I quote - "we're doing all about New Year's Revolutions Mum!!" Bless him!!

2009-01-07T23:48:00.002Z

DAY SEVEN... I'll be honest, this was very much a last minute idea! I'd taken Hubby's camera to work with me, but didn't manage to take a decent picture all day. Then, whilst having a nice, comforting hot chocolate in my fave Clangers mug, I thought why not give it a go, after all it's a record of one of those "every day things" in my life. :-)

It was a verrrry long day at work today, but it's been a lovely evening. Very dear friends of ours,who live in Canada, phoned, and they're coming to the UK in March!! I'm soooo looking forward to seeing them!

I've got two days off to look forward to now. I'm planning catching up with my card-making and finally getting started on the "Scrap Like You Mean It! challenge that's running on UK Scrappers. Oh, and taking lots more photos, of course!

2009-01-06T23:44:00.002Z

DAY SIX... So, this afternoon, with my "photo a day" subject in mind, I ventured out into our garden with the intention of taking photos of the icy conditions and maybe of the odd seed head or two.... and there I find in one of the hanging baskets... this little beauty!! With the sun shining, despite the cold, it made me think that Spring is not too far away!

It's been a good day today. I had my check-up with my fab MS nurse, Debbie, which went well. I know I'm pushing my luck, but it's been quite a while since my last relapse... and life feels good as a result. When I left the hospital I went for a little retail therapy, with Christmas money and vouchers in hand, and spent a few hours at Bluewater. Came home to eat a lovely meal, cooked by my hubby, with my fellas, and have been chillaxin on the sofa since then. Now, looking at the time, I should be off to bed! 12hr days tomorrow, then a few days off!! Yay!!

2009-01-05T17:56:00.002Z

DAY FIVE... Here's a piccie of Harrison's "penny pot" that his Dad made for him. One of hubby's hobby's is wood-turning/carpentry. Phew!! I'm up-to-date!!

Right, I'd better get ready for work... or I'm gonna be late!!

2009-01-05T17:30:00.003Z

DAY FOUR... and here's yesterday view in daylight... well if you can call the grim "greyness" of this day actually daylight!! lol!! I still haven't taken a photo for today... I'd better think quickly, as I'm off to work tonight!

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-03T23:55:00.008Z

Well, yes, I know... it's been a while again. The last couple of months of 2008 were a little "challenging" to say the least. I won't dwell on it, but suffice to say, surviving someone driving into the side of my car, (pushing it into a brick wall) and them driving off, leaving me, thankfully, only bruised and battered, and my car written-off took a little "coming back from!!"

Anyway.... on to better days and better things. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year. I've decided to give a UK Scrappers Challenge a go.... to take a photo a day - for a year!! Whether I manage to keep up, remains to be seen, but I intend to have some fun with it... and it's great that it's encouraging me to play with my lovely camera lots more.

So, Here's DAY ONE...This is of our lovely Mabel, who this year (which the boys are very excited by) will become a teenager this year!! lol

DAY TWO...These are just one pair of lovely warm fluffy PINK socks that my hubby bought me for Christmas... LOVE 'EM!!

DAY THREE... This was the view out of the ops room window at about 5.40 (ish) on the morning of the 3rd Jan.... I braved the cold to "hang out of the window" and took this on the night landscape setting.

So there's the story so far.... I'm pleased that I've blogged them, but I won't be too pleased when my alarm goes off this morning!!! I should be off to bed, as I'm working a 12hr shift today!! Oh lovely!!

2008-10-15T18:48:00.005+01:00

So, I know it's been a while (sorry Sarah!!!) but here I am again!! Shall we say that, looking at the photo, it's pretty obvious that us scrappers do not travel light!! lol!! My dear friends Jane and Jules (and her Renault "Rocket") took off for the Lurvlies retreat last weekend, having defied the laws of physics by getting all our stuff into the car.... and it was fab!! We went to Lyndhurst, in the New Forest and met up with 14 other Lurvlie friends. I managed to produce 11 layouts over the weekend whilst chatting, laughing.... oh and eating Wispas (thanks Michelle)!!! (So glad Cadburys brought them back!!)

I'd like to again thank Jules for all her hard work in arranging the weekend, and Linda - and Lorraine, Michelle and Lesley for the fab "Christmas" dinner on the Sunday! It was a pleasure to meet up with friends, old and new. Thank you all sooo much for a lovely weekend.

I haven't had a chance to photograph any of my LO's yet, so I'll be adding those over the next few days, I hope!!

The 8th Day of the 8th Month of the 8th Year!

2008-08-08T17:11:00.003+01:00

I'm back again!! We've been without phone or internet for the past couple of days... oh boy, have I missed it!!

Our Wedding Anniversary was a lovely day... Hubby took me, and the boys to Barleylands Craft Centre, nr Billericay, Essex... I can highly recommend it... then yesterday we took the boys to the Science Museum in London. An exhausting, but fascinating day. The boys took a few hits on the Tube by peoples shoulder bags - it was soooo hot and cramped. There were many people on there in need of "ahem", shall we say deodorising!!! It's true that farmers wouldn't be allowed to transport cattle in such conditions!!!

Again...already??!!

2008-08-04T23:35:00.002+01:00

I've been trying to get my brain around this whole uploading pictures thing... and I'm getting there... I think!! Now I've got to figure out how to get a picture on my profile! lol!!

Thanks again to Sarah for the kick up the bum!! I'll be back!!

Oh, and just to say that Mark and I are celebrating our 13th Wedding Anniversary tomorrow.... give that man a medal!!

2008-08-04T23:19:00.001+01:00

Older, and none the wiser!! 4th August 2008

2008-08-04T19:41:00.004+01:00

Long time no see - again!! Having been inspired (aka given kick up the bum, by Sarah on UKS) here I am blogging again!! (yes, I know...... hopefully it'll be more regularly than previously!!)

The photo above, shows me, a couple of months ago, having a wonderful time at the County Hall Library in London.... celebrating my 40th Birthday!! My very dear Lurvlie friends Jane and Jules, plotted, with the help of my hubby, to arrange a surprise treat for me. There was much intrigue for weeks as to where I was going.... even to the point that when the day arrived Mark got ready as if he was taking me out, when in fact Jules and Jane were!! Once I got over being "struck dumb" I had the most wonderful day eating gorgeous sandwiches and cake, and drinking tea and champagne!!

Ok...So it's time to catch up again!!

2008-01-09T22:20:00.000Z

Oh my word!!!! How long has been since the last time I posted!!!

So here we are in 2008...... quick recap of the end of last year...

Erm....I did the 5K Hydro Race (well mostly walk!!) in September... and I'd like to thank everyone who sponsored me. I raised £368!
I'd also like to thank Jules, Michelle and Jane for being there with me... it was a fantastic day - thanks, luv & hugs to you ladies! xx I would, of course, also like to thank my hubby and my boys for being there to cheer me on!! xx

In October I spent a fab weekend with a Lurvlie group of friends who I met through UK Scrappers. Had a wonderful time, scrapped lots, chatted loads, drank wine, ate well.... and there was a Chocolate fountain - Heaven!!!

I'm afraid to say that the main things I remember about November and December are that - following the flu jab at the end of October - I felt pretty "pants" most of the time!! It was my first year of having it, due to having MS, I'm considered one of those "at risk." Let's just say that I doubt very much that I'll be having it this year!!!

So.... back to the present day..... I'm still feeling rough - rattling from the amount of painkillers that I'm taking..... but enough of that - I've actually been scrapping!!! Yay!!

I've joined in the Elsie Flannigan 52 Scrapbooking Challenges on UK Scrappers as I felt I needed the "nudge" to get creative again... and as my Lurvlie friend Sally said to me, scrapping is great when you feel Blaaah!!!

So here are my attempts at Challenge 1 & 2.....

The first challenge - explained very loosely was to do journalling, or write/type a quote onto strips of cardstock.....

My layout shows my darling cats..... living the good life!!

I used: Bazzil cardstock, Ki memories Pet Shop "Here Kitty"patterned paper, and the felt shapes were cut on my trusty Cuttlebug.

Challenge 2 was to only use one photo, which has been converted to black and white.

For this I used a fab photo, taken by a dear friend, Jules, at the Lurvlies retreat in October 2007.

I used: Dk brown and pink Bazzill cardstock, Making memories ribbon and shimmer brad, and again I used my lovely Cuttlebug to cut some felt hearts and flowers... I do love a bit of texture on a page!

This photo brings back very happy memories!!

So.... I'm not going to make any mad promises about being a super efficient regular blogger, because I don't suppose (if anyone does actually read this) that you'd believe me!!! lol ..... but hopefully I'll be back before the end of the year!!

2007-09-13T18:17:00.000+01:00

Another enjoyable challenge from Crop Til You Drop this week. The idea was "Recycle, Recycle, recycle! So - luckily for me, being the hoarder that I am (Darling Hubby will testify to that!!) I'd kept some packaging from some embellishments that I bought when on holiday in the Lake District.

After some "fun and games" with my sometimes temperamental printer, I had all the photos I needed, and with the addition of some HOTP Kids papers, ribbons and fibres, and some Papermania flowers, a piece of boring plastic packaging was transformed!

The only problem is, it'll probably encourage me to be even more of a hoarder than I already am!

Now, I must get on with my first ever set of ATC cards for a swap that I'm taking part in on
UK Scrappers.

2007-09-12T01:32:00.000+01:00

It's been a long time since I last posted - again - and it really is a case of all work and very little play. I had a few days off, but it really doesn't feel like it!! It was good to get a cj entry finished and posted and I've got lots of projects on my list that I'm determined to get done...... so watch this space folks!!!

A recent LO I did was for a sketch challenge, by Looby, on Crop Til You Drop. The photo is one that I'd wanted to scrap for ages.... in fact it's almost 3 years old! Let's just say I'm not a chronological scrapper!! I just love the photo, my boy's smile can light up a room - don't you think?

2007-08-21T19:59:00.000+01:00

Well!! That was a lot easier than I thought it was going to be!! Me being a technophobe, and all, I thought I was doomed to failure for certain! (you'll come to learn of my limited faith in my abilities!!!)

This layout is of my Mum and my Uncle. It was taken during the Second World War, when they were evacuated.

I used the Seeds kit, from The Scrummy Stash Cafe . I hand cut the flower design from patterned paper, and put it on 3D foam, so it would "stand out" from the page (or as the Americans would say "Make it POP!") Then I was actually "brave" enough to do some hand written journalling. I know many of us struggle with this,

complaining that we hate our own writing, but at the end of the day it proves it's mine!!

I hope you like it. I think the papers are beautiful, and are just perfect for heritage photos.

2007-08-21T19:56:00.001+01:00

I made it back!!! (Sounded like I was going to launch into singing a Beverley Knight song there, didn't it?!!!)

Anyway, work, as ever, is taking up a good deal of my time, and so far I haven't managed to get to grips with putting photos of my layouts and cards onto the blog. I must try harder. So now I'm going to disappear for a while and try to fathom it out..... wish me luck!!!!

2007-08-17T22:30:00.000+01:00

Well!!! So much for me returning the next day to waffle on about my day!!

Life has been, at times difficult, but mostly fun, hectic, chaotic and full of comments like, "if only I had more time!!" Recently I've decided to make more time for all things creative in my life. I'm a much nicer person if I do this!!

I'm still very new to blogging, so bear with me whilst I learn. I will do my best to try to post on a regular basis.... and learn how to post some pictures of my Scrapbooking pages (mmmmm, this could take some time!!)

Be back soon, I promise!!

If at first you don't succeed!

2007-05-22T22:54:00.000+01:00

This is a second attempt at blogging, as I managed to lose the first! (That's why I'm a scrapper, not a computer whizz kid!!)

I hope to return tomorrow to waffle on about my day! Bye for now!