creative delight

A Brand New Blog

2008-05-27T12:24:00.002+10:00

Just letting you know that I am more or less moving my blog over to here http://kokovanilladesignsblog.blogspot.com/. I thought about keeping this blog going also but I know I would never get the chance to update both. I will keep the new one updated with a combination of information like has been on Creative Delight as well news on the website. I will keep this blog up for a while until everyone has had a chance to see the change. However make sure you save the new blog address in your favourites. Thanks Anna

KOKO VANILLA DESIGNS - A Brand New Scrapbooking Website

2008-05-23T11:10:00.006+10:00

My exciting news!!!

Welcome to my Brand New Scrapbooking Website

Koko Vanilla Designs. On Site you will see some fabulous Scrapbooking Kits, Card Making Kits and Project Kits as well as assorted Papercraft Products and Handcrafted Products. To celebrate the opening of my brand new site here are the specials I am offering!!

For any customer who subscribes to the Koko Vanilla mailing list located on the home page before the end of May they go into the draw to win a free stamp set valued at $30. For any customer who spends $20 or more in store they also get a second entry into the draw. Also until the end of May there are two free gifts customers will receive with the purchase of either the ‘Follow Your Dreams Scrapbooking Kit’ or the ‘Dream Catcher Card Kit.’ These free products are located on the Home Page for viewing and have a combined value of $30 they are Basic Grey – Journal Block Clear Stamps and Jenni Bowlin – Alpha Rubons. Come and Celebrate our new opening and get Inspired to Create!

Below you will find a little sneeky peak but to see the kits in all their fabulous glory and all the other wonderful products available click here Koko Vanilla Store.

This is a sneak peak of our Follow Your Dreams Scrapbooking Kit ot the left and our Dream Catcher Card Kit to the right. Purchase them here.

Any purchases from our site will incur one low flat rate of postage $3.95 within Australia only. . At Koko Vanilla we strive to bring you a stunning selection of beautiful products as well as the newest products released. Customer service and great value is also high on our priority list. We hope you will find all your papercraft requirements on site and will be inspired to create with our gallery and also find beautifully finished handcrafted products to purchase.

Finally a note about my association with Stampin' Up. I have officially resigned from being a demonstrator earlier this week, as their policy is that you cannot sell other products alongside Stampin' Up products. I will miss being a part of their wonderful and supportive network and I want to say thank you to Jo for all her support over the last year and a half. I have learn't many new things and its been great being surrounded by like minded people. If you have been a past customer and are still interested in Stampin Up Products you can address your queries to Jo Eades find her here.

Have a great day! Anna

Being Inspired!! - Part 2

2008-05-21T20:39:00.004+10:00

Hi everyone!

Okay I thought I would spread some more linkin lovin to all my readers out there of some of the inspiring blogs I have in my favourites.

A blog that I check nearly every couple of days and one I'm sure you have all come across is Jen Hall's Blog, What I see! Jen is famous for her artistic flair in her scrapbooking. She does the most amazing doodling I have ever seen. I sometimes have to look closely because I find it hard to believe she does it so perfectly, but she does. She is a real natural with a pen or pencil and anything crafty and creative really. Her work is bright, unique and colourful. If you pop on over to her blog at the moment she has generously designed a free doodle sheet for her readers to print out and use on their craft projects. I hope to one day attend one of her classes even though she lives in a different state.

Another blog I also love to check regularly is Kristina Werner's blog. Most Stampin' Up demonstrators would know of her, but for anyone else who hasn't discovered her yet her blog is kwernerdesignblog. I love Kristina firstly because she is just too cute and funny. Also because her cards and creations are unique but I mostly love all the tutorials on her blog especially her MACM ( Make a Card Monday). Every monday Kristina posts a You Tube Video on her blog of her making a card, in fast forward and with music in the background. Now because I am a visual person well this just suits me to a T. Visual tutorials wins me hands down over reading instructions any day. If you get hooked like I did once you see the first video there is a link in her side bar to view other video archives. You will be hooked!!! So make sure the kids are tucked up in bed so you can enjoy them interruption free.

Finally I have some very very exciting news which I will share tomorrow!! Here is just a Sneak Peak, don't forget to check back!!!! Bye Anna

Being Inspired!!

2008-05-18T21:35:00.005+10:00

I am always looking around at other blogs and websites for inspiration not just with being creative but even with life and easier ways or even better ways of doing things. So I thought I might share a couple of links here of people that are inspiring me at the moment.

Okay firstly this wonderful lady and her podcasts. I came across this blog a couple of weeks ago after finding her blog mentioned on the blog decor8. Her name is Marisa and her blog is called Creative Thursday. Marisa does the most divine paintings and has an Etsy Shop. I am very inspired by Marisa because she has recorded quite a few podcasts which ring true to anyone who is an artist in whatever medium. You can hear her podcast here and they are always on varied subjects but the same theme resonates throughout which is "being creative and loving the process in whichever form you choose to pursue it." I find when I am listening to one of Marisa's podcasts I am agreeing with what she has said or can relate to it in some way. It's great to know that other artists out there feel the same way I do and that we all doubt ourselves in some way or form and that its natural to ask questions and second guess yourself but to always recognise it as that and keep moving forward onto the next step and always making the time to create even when you don't feel like creating.

Another blog I am inspired by is Lilybean Paperie. Melissa's work is just amazing each time I go onto her blog I am speechless at how beautiful her creations are. Each time I visit whatever it is that she has created that's new is just as stunning if not more so than the last thing she's posted. All her creations are so perfect and detailed with beautifully matched paper and embellishments I am in awe that one person can have so many creative ideas, everything she creates is always different her style can vary each time but its always just beautiful. You can really tell that Melissa is so naturally creative and the process seems to come effortlessly. I hope to be in that place one day where creating becomes effortless from the heart.

Okay I have heaps more links but I will put a couple more in the next post. In the meantime you can check out the ones I have put here and see how it inspires you.

Just to finish I thought I would post a card I made today. The card looks much better in real life the photo doesn't do it justice really. The colours are much brighter. Happy Sunday Night everyone and Hope you are feeling inspired. Anna

Weekly Update and Birthday Wishes

2008-05-16T16:19:00.004+10:00

Firstly I must say I cannot believe it is Friday and that I last posted on Sunday. Its like the weeks get chewed up in one big gulp. I have been meaning to post each day and then I get sidetracked. Albeit I haven't really done that much creative stuff that I would have to show anyway. I hope Mother's Day was lovely for all the mums out there.

Okay now I would like to send ((big wishes and birthday hugs)) to my sister-in-law MERI. Happy Birthday Meri from all of us. Hope you have had a fun day!!! If you have a minute pop on over to Meri's blog and send her some Birthday Wishes. Even if she doesn't know you, you can never have too many birthday wishes I say!!

I thought I would sneak the card I made for Meri on here, even though she hasn't seen it yet. Don't you just love the combination of Choc, Mint and White together, makes me feel like eating a Mint Slice LOL.

Okay that's all for today. I will be back with more on the weekend I absolutely promise.

Bye Anna!!

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T08:02:00.004+10:00

To all the fabulous Mothers out there or carers, anyone really who maintains a mother figure role I hope you have a wonderful day filled with love and attention just for you. Here is a card I made as a little gesture to wish everyone a joy filled bright day. Love Anna

Just Saying Hi!!!

2008-05-07T19:44:00.003+10:00

I have been so busy and haven't had time to post, so I thought I would pop in to say Hi. I haven't really been creating much except little gift tags for our Mother's Day Stall. Still have a fair few to do and hoping to really knuckle down tonight and make heaps. They are great for using up all your scrap bits of paper. My scrap box is totally overflowing that when I went to pull it out from under the desk the box actually ripped. So I guess that's a sign to either use the scraps or give them to the kids or donate them. I just hate wasting even the smallest of scraps because I figure there is always a use for them. Of course leading to the massive accumulation.

Yesterday I taught my daughter Melanie's class at school how to make gift tags. As their topic for the term is (Meet the Maker), the school requested if any parents could come and talk to the kids about how they make something, so of course Melanie and the teacher asked me to come in and show the kids some cards. So given its Mothers Day on the weekend I suggested they all make a gift card as well to go with their purchase from the Mother's Day Stall this week. So I tried to come up with a design that was relatively easy but cute as well. The card above is what I came up with. The kids were able to pick from a flower, butterfly or heart punch. They all loved making their cards and I got some feedback from some of the mums this morning that their kids were being creative last night and making more cards, so that makes it all worth it.

Also I purchased the new set from Stampin' Up called Short and Sweet. Well you all know my love of Warm Words so of course when they released a similar set I just had to purchase them and I am already in love with this set. The 'love you' on the card is from the set. Sorry I know the photo isn't that good but I have just taken it and its night time. I have concluded the only time for taking good photos is in the daytime.

Okay enough stalling I need to get the kids in bed so I can get busy with my little gift tags.

Have a great night. Anna

It's Been A While

2008-04-30T16:53:00.003+10:00

Hello Everyone,

Wow where has the last 8 days gone. I can't believe I haven't posted here for that long. I have been really busy with school stuff. I have volunteered to help organise our Mothers Day Stall at school, so here is some of what I have been making. I hope to make as many of these as I can. They will sell at our stall of 50c for the kids to buy for their mums. I am trying to keep them quick and simple but, sometimes my own perfectionism just gets in the way. Some take more time than others so I justify it that way. I am donating them anyway.

So life has been quite hectic with lots happening around here. Hopefully things will get back to normal by the end of next week after our stall has come and gone.

That's all I have to show for today but more or less wanted to hop on and update. I would love to get to making a couple of canvases in the next week or so I have been inspired by Jen Hall. Take a look at her latest post and her gorgeous canvases. Such a great gift idea for someone who doesn't scrapbook as it is unique and priceless.

Well its that time of the day where I have to get dinner finished off, so hope you are all enjoying the chilly mornings. Its a nice change to the hot weather we seemed to have for so long, it gives you the excuse of rugging up indoors with hot chocolate and marshmallows. Oh the simple pleasures!! Bye Anna

Baroque Motifs and Weekend Update

2008-04-20T20:24:00.007+10:00

Wow what a busy weekend its been?

Okay lets start with Friday, well it was my Birthday so I was spoiled by my family with lovely gifts and then a dinner out at a local chinese restaurant which was a nice treat as we don't often eat out at restaurants. Although the kids were quite well behaved whilst we were there so I can see the whole eating out thing being much easier with the kids now.

Then the weekend was busy with visiting family and family visiting us if you can make sense of that and today ended the weekend with a picnic at the park for the afternoon. It was such nice weather here today so it was nice to relax in the outdoors whilst the kids were busily playing as they do, so carefree with endless waves of energy. Oh to be like that again!! (enough dreaming).

Close Up

So onto some creative items. Last post I mentioned that I had finally recieved my first new catalogue SU order. One of the sets I couldn't wait to order since I had seen it in a few of the Overseas Blogs last year is Baroque Motifs. So when I recieved it I couldn't wait to chop it up and mount and stamp. Here are a couple of cards I came up with. One of these is for our School Cards Stall, they are both for Mother's Day but really can be used for many different occasions.

Close Up

As you can see I used a similar layout and theme for both cards but just varied them a little and of course the colours are different. I pretty much utilised all the stamps in the set in these cards except there is also the word 'kind' along with 'cherish' I didn't use the kind stamp. So here are a couple of samples of how you can use this set if you already have it. If not and would like to purchase it, please contact me at pontikis@netspace.net.au or 0413 689 234. I am more than happy to take your order no matter where in Australia you live.

Hope you enjoy your Sunday Night and have a fabulous start to the week ahead. Anna

Thursday Update!!

2008-04-17T09:12:00.003+10:00

Hello Everyone!!

Well I thought I would jump on here and post a few randomn things about my week. Can't believe its already Thursday. I have the kids home from school today as it is their Curriculum day. So not much productivity will be happening for me personally when the kids are around ( I mean work wise). Although I do want to get a bit of cleaning done around here so I think I will have to use some bribe tactics to get some assistance from the kiddies, especially when it comes to organising and cleaning their rooms.

Other stuff that has been happening well my craft room is completely trashed with paper and stuff everywhere because I let the kids take control for a bit last night as they all wanted to make me a birthday card, (mental note: limit what they can use next time). My stamps not to mention my papers and some rather nice thickers that I had been saving are now on my birthday cards x 3. Oh well I guess its great they are being creative and using some of my never ending stash.

Another thing that is on my mind is Mothers Day, coming up for us here in Australia in a few weeks. I just put my hand up yesterday and offered to organise our Mother's Day stall for the kids to purchase their Mother a gift at School. So that will be a task that will need some attention next week. Usually I make heaps of cards and tags for school so I am going to try and get started on those a few a night won't leave me with a huge amount to do at the last minute as I am prone to doing, I learn't that habit from School days and low and belhold it hasn't left me yet. Something about leaving things to the last minute

Anyway enough ramblings but I did make a start on this one solitary card last night after the whirlwind trashing of my craft room from my children, using the new Inque Boutique Clear Stamps. Just love the font wish I could write like this.

Another thing I want to attempt today is that I recieved my SU order, so want to dive in and use my new stamps and paper and ink. So lets hope I get this done as well. May have more to show tomorrow with my new craft goodies.

Enjoy your Thursday. Anna

Its been a while......

2008-04-14T18:09:00.006+10:00

Life has been really busy around here lately and blogging has been at the bottom of the list to be honest. Sometimes I'm not sure how many of you out there read this blog as there aren't many comments but in any case I will keep blogging and showing my art in the hope that it is inspiring and that there is some interest out there. The counter keeps going up so I know someone out there is reading.

Here is a card I made on the weekend. I keep seeing all these beautiful cards using fabric and I have lots of scraps of fabric from when I attempted patchwork a few years back, so I saw this idea on etsy of layering the fabric and paper to make a flower and finishing off with buttons. Here is my attempt. Rather cute I thought. It seemed like a baby themed card to me when I finished it, with the soft girly colours so I used the sentiment sweet baby.

I haven't received my new Stampin' Up order from the new Catalogue as yet, but then I did put it in a few days into April. I know there was a huge influx of orders so I guess very exciting times for SU and their new catalogue is proving to be a success. I'm looking forward to recieving my new stamps its always fun and inspiring to work with new stamps and inks and product. I'm sure you all know what I mean!!

(Edited to add)Sorry guys I will have to try and upload the photo a bit later. Blogger is taking forever to load the photo and it just isn't working, so I will log back in later tonight and try again.

Okay finally got the photo on here. Have a great night. Anna

As promised earlier

2008-04-03T20:45:00.003+11:00

Here is a card I finished off today. I nearly forgot to pop it on here as I have been busy all day with the kids home. I actually stamped up the flower images on a whole sheet of A4 card stock and coloured it in with markers using the Stampin' Up blender pens, a few weeks ago but hadn't transferred it to a card yet. This set is called Time Well Spent and is actually a Level 3 stamp set in the new catalogue, so you need to have a workshop to earn this set. If you are interested you can email me at pontikis@netspace.net.au. I know the photo isn't all that good, but I think you get the idea. Okay since this is my second post for today I'll keep it short. Have a good night. Anna

Welcome to Stampin' Up 2008-09

2008-04-03T08:23:00.003+11:00

It's finally here, the Stampin' Up Catalogue has officially taken effect and you can begin ordering. It contains stunning new Stamp Sets, Rub Ons, Florals, a new range of Colours, and some new Punches including the much anticipated scallop punch. I already have a couple of sets from this catalogue so I will try and upload a couple of cards using those stamps sets, later today or tonight. If you haven't purchased a catalogue yet you can view it HERE.

Because I don't want to leave you without some show and tell, here is a card I made last week. I have had the floral frame stamp for ages and have never used it. I saw an idea the other day of cutting around the frame and then layering it on dimensionals to make it appear like a frame with something inside, so I tried to get the effect that way. The photo doesn't really do this card justice I should have taken an angle shot so you could see the lift. It is not an SU stamp but the writing below is the from the Warm Words set which I am happy to say is in the New Catty as well, but even more exciting is that there is also another set of words that has been released like this which is on my wish list as I just love the font. In fact someone the other day asked if it was my handwriting, if only it was!!. In case you are wondering which set I am talking about it is on pg 118 of the Catalogue and the new set is called Short and Sweet. You can even see it online on the link above.

Back with more later, I promise so check in. Bye Anna

All things New and Old with Stampin' Up

2008-03-30T13:29:00.005+11:00

Happy Sunday, everyone. Today this post is about New and Old. Firstly I would love to tempt you with the absolutely stunning front cover of the brand new Stampin' Up Catalogue. Only two more sleeps and this Catalogue will be up and running and orders can be placed. I have had a good long look inside and there definitely is a fairly big wish list making its way for me. If you would like to purchase a copy, you can call me for a copy on 0413 689 234 or send me an email.

So I am doing things backwards today because the all things old part of this post is that we are farewelling a number of sets. I am putting in a final order tomorrow. So if you would like to purchase anything that is going, going, nearly gone, you have the rest of today and possibly a few hours tomorrow to let me know.

The final part of this post is a canvas I made ages ago in fact over a year ago when I first began with Stampin' Up. Not sure if I ever posted it here but in any case I promised a friend I would pop it on here because she may be using it for inspiration to make some canvases with her children. Good Luck with that one!!!

I have lots to do, hubby and the kids are out for a little Sunday walk so I need to knock a few more things off my never ending to do list. Bye for now. Anna

finally a scrapbooking page.......

2008-03-26T16:31:00.004+11:00

oh it feels like forever since I have finished a scrapbooking page in its totality. I have several half finished pages, that are calling my name but its always easier to start another than to finish what you started ages ago. I am determined though to really catch up and scrap up a storm from now on. Well here it is this page has been in progress for quite some time.

I took these photos a year or two ago, of my son and his dad and their little weekend Nanna Naps!! LOL. No really, often to get Michael to sleep George would volunteer himself to lie down with him, no prizes for guessing who always fell asleep first. Anyway I am glad I captured one of these moments, because they don't really happen any more as Michael doesn't have any more day naps.

I love the blue/brown combination here, I took the colours from Michael's Jumper and pants. I used the harlequin stamp from Stampin' Up to stamp the chipboard letters, the stamp is part of the 'Looks Like Spring' Set in the current catalogue. I also base painted the letters in a white/creamy acrylic paint first, let dry and then stamped. I finished off with some scrolls and buttons. There is also a clear transfer frame (i think that's what they are called) from MME over the top of the photo.

The other day I saw these divine little birds on this blog. So I had to follow the links and have a go at making my own. This is the first one I have made, I think it needs some friends. Not sure what I will use it for but they are so quick and easy to do and just sooooo divine. Thanks Elizabeth for your birdy inspiration. My photo is a bit dark but I think you get the idea. I glittered the middle of the little green flowers not sure if you can tell. So, so cute!!!!!

Okay that's all my crafty goodness for today. We finally have rain here in Melbourne for most of today on and off. It feels good to have the cool wet weather, feels like forever since we have had some decent rain. Its amazing because I read on some of the international blogs how they greatful that they are getting warmer weather and sunshine and spring and here we need just the opposite. Wherever you are in the world I hope your weather is just perfect for you. Love Anna.

Happy Easter

2008-03-25T15:54:00.009+11:00

I know Easter has come and gone and I didn't really get a chance to post on here, so Happy Easter everyone. I hope you overindulged on delicious Chocolate like I did. I am still full from a weekend of over indulging to be honest. Feeling very guilty at the moment so I must do lots of exercise to balance it out!! Anyone else feeling like this?????

Here a couple of cute piccies of the kids with their bags full of choccies after our Easter Egg hunt at Mums. They got given so many Easter Eggs to last them the year I think. You know the kids have too much chocolate when Danielle my eldest said, after being given her nineth egg, I don't want any more eggs now it would be nice if I just got money instead. So there you have it. Just when I thought you could never have too much chocolate, obviously you can.

Its funny how every time I told the kids to pose for the camera with one of the chocolates they found they all pulled out the same one. I thought that was hillarious and very coincidental.

Okay onto other things. We have had so many birthdays this month and I have been churning out the cards like a card making factory. I haven't taken photos of all of them for one reason or another but here are a couple I did for Saturday's run of parties.

This card was for my Sister-in-law for her birthday. I used the cuttlebug to emboss the paper and used my favourite cardstock colour at the moment from Stampin' Up which will be retiring at the end of this month ' Cool Carribean' Just love that colour. If you want some let me know before it sells out as I will be ordering another packet for myself. I used stamps from the Carte Postale set in the Summer Mini, also ending at the end of the month. I stamped the bird and the little flower vine. I used the white inkpad from SU and also the Real Red. These three colours just look divine together. I just love the mini pom pom ribbon. Just so beautiful.

The other card I made is for my Sister-in-laws' husband who celebrates his birthday two days before her. He turned 40 so I made this card. I love the little saying that I have also put on a scrapbooking page for my son. Not sure if you can read it clearly but it says, 'Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.' I love this quote and I love putting motivational sayings on my card. I believe in divine timing and that something you may say, might just be the thing that person needs to hear at the time. I know this happens to me often. I will find a book or hear a quote just when I need some inspiration or a solution to a problem.

Okay I know this has been a long post and there is more but it will have to do for today. Just a brief reminder that if you want to order anything that is about to retire I will be putting in a final order for the month by Monday, so let me know. I also keep forgettting to mention, if anyone would like to pre-order a copy of the new Stampin' Up Catalogue soon to be released. I am waiting on some to arrive as I have put my order in late, but if you would like one send me an email pontikis@netspace.net.au and I will add you to the list. They will be $12.95, but you will need to pick them up from me for this price, if you would like them sent directly to you, let me know as there will be postage costs on top of this price. Thanks and have a great Monday. Anna

Easter Cards

2008-03-21T11:21:00.004+11:00

Okay here we go as promised some Easter cards I made the other day at my craft day. I am just loving this cute set of stamps that I bought they are from Inque boutique. They are just so cute with Bunny Rabbits, Chicks, Eggs and Flowers. So many different little stamps in the one set and they are really cute Easter images rather than some of the traditional ones. Its great because even the kids like them as they are fun and funky and they can make little Easter gift tags and crafts. That might be on the agenda today since its Good Friday. I love that everything is closed it forces you to stay focused on either stuff around the house of getting out to the park. I have already taken my kids to the oval near our house for a long jog/walk. It was great so now the rest of the day will be spent around here doing stuff.

Hope you all have a really relaxing Good Friday doing something that you love doing..... Anna.

Computer Chaos

2008-03-20T13:26:00.002+11:00

Wow what a week its been. Haven't had access to computer websites for a few days due to my darling daughter causing some major computer problems for us with a security website we have on here. Note to self don't leave the computer on with kids ready to download whatever's available. In any case I am back now thank goodness, its amazing how much I rely on this box. Maybe not such a great thing!!!

Its finally the end of term 1, I can't believe that Easter is only 4 days away. I finally did my Easter Egg shopping today. I had a craft day yesterday at my house and it was great fun. Made some Easter cards that I will upload later as at the moment the camera battery is recharging. Also finally finished my first scrap layout for the year, yay!! I know, I have been very slack, I have about 3 half finished pages and so I keep procrastinating and making cards instead. I feel though I am back on track, I will also show the page later, maybe tonight.

I'm off to do the school pick up, and will be back either tonight or tomorrow with some images.

Have a great day. Anna

March Newsletter Is Now Out

2008-03-12T13:38:00.003+11:00

Hi All,

The March Newsletter should have hit your inboxes last night. If you are not on my email list but are interested in recieving it then send me an email with the word Newsletter in the title. The photo above is a sneak peak of my Easter Decoration & Gifts Class. This class is next Monday 17th March 7.30 - 9.30pm. We will be making Paper Baskets, Easter Tags and an Easter Hanging Banner, very cute. Email me at pontikis@netspace.net.au for more details. Thats all for now. Later Anna

Easter Craft

2008-03-07T14:52:00.003+11:00

Hi all, wow where has the week gone. I have been so busy this week, lots of organising things and the week has just flown by. So did I disconnect, well I did with respects to getting off the computer and being more producting and getting things organised and off my to do list, but creatively not much. I made this card however for our little card stand at school so I thought I would show it here, just so there is something crafty to display. I can't believe Easter is only a few weeks away, it seems as though we have just finished getting over Christmas, and now its Easter cards and Easter eggs and soon Easter celebrations!!

I hope to get a few Easter Crafts done this year, just for something different as I don't usually do Easter crafts but wouldn't mind giving it a go as there is never enough time to do them at Christmas but Easter is a a little more laid back. I am starting to see other creations pop up on blogs here and there so am inspired to give it a go. I hope to rally the kids in this weekend and perhaps we can make some together. That give me more guilt free creative time when they join in, although I don't know how much I'll get done.

That's all from as I have School pick up soon, will be back over the weekend with more and hope to get March Newsletter out this weekend. Just a reminder that the craft day has move to the following Wednesday 19th March, more details to follow.... Bye Anna

Take back your creative time 'Disconnect'.........

2008-03-03T21:13:00.005+11:00

Well I came across the most inspirational post tonight, in fact I haven't been inspired by someone who has put into words my thoughts. Take a look HERE at a post on Rebecca Sower's blog. I think she has really struck a chord here not only for me but society in general. I think this is our modern day time thief. This fabulous web of information that we all have at our fingertips is, I believe a double edged sword. Rebecca puts it so wonderfully in her blog post and I think whether it be the computer, TV, phone whatever electronical gadget it gradually eats away at our day. Although the access to information and communication is wonderful and I am most greatful for that, quite often at the end of the day however there is not nearly as much creativity and productivity to justify the time spent researching, reading or being inspired if you don't actually do anything with that information.

So enough of looking at the cause and lets look to the solution. I am really going to make an effort to keep the computer off as much as possible so that I am not tempted to just quickly check this email or that blog which then leads me to being sidetracked. I am definitely going to make big pockets of time when I would normally just blog surf, like in the evenings, actually creating and getting things done. I am going to try this for a week, really making an effort to be conscious of how much time I can carve for myself creating rather than being on the computer and see how much more productive the week proves to be. I will post about it later in the week. I hope all you readers out there will join me in taking back our creative time. I would love to hear your thoughts on this post and that of Rebecca's brilliant inspirational post and how you might take on this challenge. Rebecca has a fabulous list of suggestions on her post about things to do, I hope you are as inspired as I was!!! Thanks Rebecca!!!!! Anna

A wedding Card

2008-03-02T11:08:00.004+11:00

Happy Sunday Everyone,

I thought I would show a card I made for a Wedding my husband and I attended yesterday. My sister-in-law Meri her little sister got married yesterday. It was a lovely day and a beautiful Wedding. I cannot post pictures as I don't have permission, but also I am sure Meri will post some on her blog so I will leave that for her.

Anyway back to the card. The theme of the wedding seemed to be cream and white so I made a black and white card to match but added just a little hint of pink for love!! I am just loving those scalloped circles can you tell. This time I printed the words true love on the computer as I didn't have a wedding type saying to stamp on there, can you believe all the stamps I own and nothing really for a wedding card. Anyway I then cut the scalloped circle around it double mounted onto another bigger scalloped circle. I had this gorgeous lace that my mum had as she is doing a clean out and she found this gorgeous trim so I took it and I weaved the black ribbon through it and its looks too cute I think. I wrapped the gift in the white wrapping paper that I have and added a beautiful ribbon that I have so it all matched.

That's about all my crafty ventures. Just a reminder that some of the retired items are selling out fast, so be quick so you don't miss out. Some items have already sold out so I will go to those previous posts and mark what is sold out. If you want to know then just refer down below to my other posts. Have a great day Anna.

Scalloped Circles.

2008-02-26T13:09:00.002+11:00

I'm not sure if I have mentioned in a past blog entry that I decided to gift myself with a cuttlebug machine. I thought about it for ages and then when they were on sale at Lincraft before Christmas I decided to purchase one. I just looooove it. Especially since you can use most other dies on it as well as the cuttlebug ones. So when I heard about the Spellbinders Nestabilities Collection, that were released I just had to have them. The scalloped circles on this card are made from the large scalloped circle set. They are great value I think compared to buying a single punch or a single die template, as you get several different sizes circles in the one pack.

On this card I have cut out two sizes of scalloped circles in white and blue cardstock and then the blue scalloped circle I have run through the cuttlebug again and embossed it. I have then inked the raised flowers. I have then finished off with a stamped and cut out butterfly and a tag using the riveting set from Stampin' Up. I have tied a heart ribbon around the circles and there you have it a stunning card.

That's all from me today, for my show and tell. I know there are lots of you guys out there reading this blog so feel free to leave a comment as I love to hear how you are all going. Lastly only two more days to take advantage of my special offer. SEE PREVIOUS POST FOR DETAILS. Have a great afternoon. Anna

Stampin' Up Retired List Accessories

2008-02-25T11:31:00.002+11:00

In my last post I have listed all the retiring stamp sets from the 07-08 catalogue here is the remainder of the list of accessories also on their way out. Don't forget if you have stamp pads of those limited edition colours, stock up on ink refills and also that colour cardstock. 10% off is still valid until Wednesday only. Have a great day!!
105094
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 4
105093
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 5
105092
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 6
105091
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT ACCORDION ASST 7
105101
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 4
105100
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 5
105099
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 6
105098
BOXES & TAGS BOOK KIT SADDLE STITCH ASST 7
106581
BOXES & TAGS PETAL CARD BOLD BRIGHTS & EARTH ELEMENTS
105074
BOXES & TAGS PETAL CARD WHISPER WHITE & VERY VANILLA
105067
BOXES & TAGS POCKETS & PIECES ASST I
105068
BOXES & TAGS POCKETS & PIECES ASST II
108632
BOXES & TAGS TINY TAKEOUT BOLD BRIGHTS & EARTH ELEMENTS
107245
BOXES & TAGS TINY TAKEOUT CONFETTI WHITE & KRAFT
104583
BRADS VINTAGE
108624
CARD STOCK BUCKAROO BLUE A4
108625
CARD STOCK COOL CARIBBEAN A4
108628
CARD STOCK CRANBERRY CRISP
106562
CARD STOCK GOING GRAY A4
106683
CARD STOCK IN COLOR 12X12
108629
CARD STOCK IN COLOR A4
108627
CARD STOCK MARIGOLD MORNING A4
106531
CARD STOCK SAHARA SAND 12X12
108626
CARD STOCK TRUE THYME A4
108623
CARD STOCK VINTAGE VIOLET A4
107231
CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL BUCKAROO BLUE
107228
CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL CRANBERRY CRISP
107230
CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL COOL CARIBBEAN
107227
CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL MARIGOLD MORNING
107229
CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL TRUE THYME
107232
CLASSIC STAMPIN' INK REFILL VINTAGE VIOLET
107225
CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD BUCKAROO BLUE
107222
CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD CRANBERRY CRISP
107224
CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD COOL CARIBBEAN
107221
CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD MARIGOLD MORNING
107223
CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD TRUE THYME
107226
CLASSIC STAMPIN' PAD VINTAGE VIOLET
104302
CORD COPPER
104303
CORD GOLD
104304
CORD SILVER
104328
CRAFT STAMPIN' INK REFILL VERY VANILLA
104308
CRAFT STAMPIN' PAD VERY VANILLA
107405
DESIGNER SERIES FOUR SEASONS
105366
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER CAMBRIDGE 12X12
105365
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER OXFORD
104136
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER POOL PARTY
107295
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER RECOLLECTIONS
107062
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SARAH
107308
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY
104135
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER SLUMBER PARTY
107406
DESIGNER SERIES PAPER TREEHOUSE
103280
EMBOSSING KIT
104281
ENCORE INK REFILL COPPER
104280
ENCORE PAD COPPER
105317
EYELETS BOLD BRIGHTS II
105315
EYELETS SOFT SUBTLES II
100395
FANCY FIBERS BRIGHTS
100396
FANCY FIBERS EARTHS
100397
FANCY FIBERS NEUTRALS
100393
FANCY FIBERS REGALS
100394
FANCY FIBERS SUBTLES
103321
GIFT SACKS OATMEAL
103890
METAL EDGE TAGS BRASS WHITE CIRCLE
103888
METAL EDGE TAGS BRASS WHITE SQUARE
103894
METAL EDGE TAGS COPPER WHITE CIRCLE
103892
METAL EDGE TAGS COPPER WHITE SQUARE
104184
POST EXTENDERS
103378
PUNCH CORNER ROUNDER SMALL
102686
PUNCH HANDHELD RECTANGLE
104407
PUNCH NOTCHED CORNER
104406
PUNCH PAPER PIECING
104405
PUNCH SQUARE CONVEX
101637
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" APPLE GREEN
102712
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" BLACK
100538
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" BLUEBIRD
105372
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" BURGUNDY
105373
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" CELERY
105374
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" CHOCOLATE
100455
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" CREAM
101666
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" LIGHT ORCHID
101926
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" LIGHT PINK
105378
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" NAVY
102682
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" RED
103064
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" TANGERINE
101156
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" TAUPE
102119
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" TURQUOISE
102819
RIBBON GROSGRAIN 1/4" WHITE
104257
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW GOLD
100589
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW IVORY
103019
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW LIGHT PINK
104256
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW NAVY
104258
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW OLIVE
104253
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW SILVER
101613
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW WHITE
104260
RIBBON ORGANDY NARROW WINE
106807
RIBBON ORIGINALS PREP SCHOOL
106809
RIBBON ORIGINALS RUSTIC RETREAT
106806
RIBBON ORIGINALS SEASIDE
106808
RIBBON ORIGINALS SWEET SHOP
107453
SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' ALL THE TRIMMINGS
107456
SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' AT HOME
107454
SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' OUT & ABOUT
107457
SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' PARTY PIECES
107455
SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' TICKETS & TOKENS
107460
SIMPLY SCRAPPIN' TODAY & ALWAYS
108509
SIMPLY SENT A WISH FOR YOU
108511
SIMPLY SENT FRIENDSHIP SHAPES
108512
SIMPLY SENT GOOD THINGS
108510
SIMPLY SENT REMEMBERING YOU
105580
SPECTRUM PAD BLUE FROST
101492
SPECTRUM PAD CELEBRATION
105579
SPECTRUM PAD COTTON CANDY
101336
SPECTRUM PAD PUMPKIN PATCH
103953
STAMP-A-MA-JIG IMAGING SHEETS
101460
STAMPIN' AROUND CARTRIDGE & REFILL WHISPER WHITE
103017
STAMPIN' AROUND INK REFILL WHISPER WHITE
101040
STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER BLACK DETAIL
100442
STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER CLASSY COPPER
101428
STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER CLEAR DETAIL
103342
STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER GOLD DETAIL
101781
STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER SILVER DETAIL
100963
STAMPIN' EMBOSS POWDER WHITE DETAIL
103174
STAMPIN' PASTELS APPLICATOR REFILL
105543
STAMPIN' PASTELS BOLD BRIGHTS
105544
STAMPIN' PASTELS EARTH ELEMENTS
105547
STAMPIN' PASTELS NEUTRALS
105545
STAMPIN' PASTELS RICH REGALS
105546
STAMPIN' PASTELS SOFT SUBTLES
103648
STAMPIN' STACK
107239
TAG SHEETS CONFETTI WHITE & VERY VANILLA
107240
TAG SHEETS KRAFT
105369
TIMEWORN COLLECTION PAPER HEIRLOOM
105368
TIMEWORN COLLECTION PAPER RUSTIC
105367
TIMEWORN COLLECTION PAPER WEATHERED
105395
WIRE WORKS METALLICS
105812
WRITE ME A MEMORY FONT CD VOL I

Stampin' Up Retired List and a Mega 5 day Special

2008-02-22T17:08:00.003+11:00

As you all know Sale-a-bration is just about to come to an end with the end of Feb. Coinciding with this the retired list has just been released from Stampin' up. So if you would like to grab a double bonus special. You can still get your free Sale-a-bration set for every $100 you spend, but I will also take a further 10% off your order before postage, so that you can purchase more of what you would like at a cheaper price. So if one of the sets you love is just about to be retired here is your chance to get it at a reduced rate as well as make use of Sale-a-bration. This offer is only valid until this coming Wednesday as I will be placing orders by Thursday. Don't miss out as some sets are already sold out. Contact me on 0413 689 234 or email at pontikis@netspace.net.au. The 10% includes any SU products but you must spend at least $100 or more, postage is still calculated as per normal of the order. This offer is exclusive to me.

Retired List
Retired stamps, wheels, and accessories are available while supplies last, so make sure you place your orders no later than 31 March. Items listed in RED are no longer available.
Item # Product Description Catalogue Sets
108715 A LITTLE LOVE
108717 A NEW LITTLE SOMEONE
108718 A TO Z ACCENTS
108723 ALL IN A ROW
108724 ALL MIXED UP
108725 ALL NATURAL
108727 ALL THE BEST
108729 ALL WRAPPED UP
108730 ALL WRAPPED UP ACCESSORIES
108731 ALL-YEAR CHEER I
108732 ALL-YEAR CHEER II
108737 ALPHADOT NUMBERS
108735 ALPHADOTS
108736 ANCIENT ASIA
108739 ARTIFACTS
108741 BABY FIRSTS
108745 BECAUSE OF YOU
108749 BEST OF CLUCK
108750 BEYOND THE BASICS
108752 BIRTHDAY BEAUTY
108759 BUGGIES & BOOTIES
108762 BY DEFINITION
108766 CHEESECLOTH
109073 CLASSIC ALPHABET
109074 CLASSIC NUMBERS
108770 COLLAGE ALPHABET
108771 COLLAGE NUMBERS
108773 CROSSHATCH
108775 CUTE AS A BUG
108776 DAY-TO-DAY FLEXIBLE PHRASES
108777 DO THE HULA
108778 DOTTED
108779 DOWN TO BUSINESS
108780 DREAM COME TRUE
108782 ECLECTIC BACKGROUNDS
108783 EPHEMERA
108784 ESPRESSOLY FOR YOU
108788 FARM FEVER
108789 FAVORITE TEDDY BEAR
108808 FINIALS & FRAMES
108810 FLANNEL PLAID
108812 FLOWER FEST
108813 FLOWER FILLED
108815 FONTASTIC
108816 FRENCH SCRIPT
108817 FRESH FILLERS
108818 FRIENDSHIP FLOWERS
108819 FUN FILLED
108821 GIFTS OF JOY
108823 GLAD TIDINGS
108824 GLAM GIRL
108826 GOOD THINGS GROW
108827 GORGEOUS GRAPEVINE
108829 HANDLE WITH CARE
108830 HAPPILY EVER AFTER
108832 HAPPY HEARTS
108833 HEADLINE ALPHABET
108834 HEADLINE NUMBERS
108836 HEBREW HOLIDAYS
108837 HOLIDAY PRINT
108838 HOLIDAY SPIRIT
108843 I DID IT
108845 IN FULL BLOOM
108846 IN THE WILD
108848 IT'S SNOW TIME
108851 KANJI
108852 LABEL CLASSICS
108853 LETTERPRESS ALPHABET
108854 LETTERPRESS NUMBERS
108856 LIFE'S SPECIAL MOMENTS
108858 LITTLE HELLOS
108859 LITTLE HOLIDAY WISHES
108861 LIVELY LEAVES
108867 LOVING HEARTS
108868 MADONNA AND CHILD
108870 MERRY MINIS
108871 MIXED BOUQUET
108872 MON AMI
108873 MONKEY BUSINESS
108876 MUCH LOVE
108878 NEVER-ENDING JOY
108879 NEWSPRINT ALPHABET
108880 NEWSPRINT NUMBERS
108881 NICE & EASY NOTES
108882 NICE & NARROW
108883 OLIVE YOU
108885 ON WALKABOUT
108886 OPEN FOR TRADE
108889 PERENNIAL FAVORITES
108891 PETAL PUSHERS
108892 PLAY BALL
108893 POCKET FUN
108895 PRINT PATTERN
108896 PURE & SIMPLE ALPHABET LOWER
108897 PURE & SIMPLE ALPHABET UPPER
108898 PURE & SIMPLE NUMBERS
108899 QUICK THINKING
108901 RENAISSANCE ANGELS
108903 ROSES IN WINTER
108907 SEASIDE SKETCHES
108908 SEASON BY SEASON
108910 SET SAIL
108911 SIMPLE SAYINGS II
108912 SIMPLE SKETCHES
108914 SIMPLY CIRCLES
108917 SLEIGH FULL OF TOYS
109072 STAMPED FROM THE HEART
108922 STIPPLE CELEBRATIONS
109022 STIPPLE SHELLS
108925 SUPERSIZE SYMBOLS
108926 SWEET & SASSY
108928 SWEET TALK
108933 TERRIFIC TULIPS
108935 TIDY ALPHABET
108936 TIDY NUMBERS
108938 TRADING COLLECTION
108939 TREAT YOURSELF
108940 TRIMTASTIC
108941 TYPESET ALPHABET LOWER
108942 TYPESET ALPHABET UPPER
108943 TYPESET NUMBERS
108947 WATERCOLOR MINIS
108952 WELL-WORN ALPHABET
108953 WELL-WORN NUMBERS
108955 WHIMSICAL ALPHABET LOWER
108956 WHIMSICAL ALPHABET UPPER
108957 WHIMSICAL NUMBERS
108959 WILD HEARTS
108961 WINGED THINGS
108964 WONDERFUL WORDS II
108965 WORD BY WORD
108966 WORLD TOUR
108968 YULE BITS & BORDERS
Hostess Sets
108714 A IS FOR ADORABLE
108743 BASKET FULL OF FUN
108754 BLOOMING WITH HAPPINESS
108758 BOTH WAY BLOSSOMS
108814 FLOWERS FOR A FRIEND
108844 IN ANY EVENT
108865 LOVE IT
108900 REASON TO SMILE
108902 RIVETING
108919 SPRINGTIME STEMS
108932 TERRIFIC TAGS
108946 WARMEST REGARDS
Stampin' Around Wheels
101420 BABY TIME
104070 BLOOMIN'
105951 BOLD SNOWFLAKES*
105750 BOUQUET*
106749 BRIGHT BULBS
105518 BUILDER BITS
107481 BUTTERFLIES & BLOSSOMS
103094 BY THE SEA
103296 CANDY CANE CHRISTMAS
104312 HOT TO DOT
107463 LEAF FEST*
106062 LEAVES AWASH*
102254 LOVE SWIRLS
103543 ONLY ORNAMENTS
101090 PAW TRACKS
107476 ROUGH AROUND THE EDGES*
105448 SIZE IT UP
104160 SQUARE PEGS*
107480 TRUE HEARTS
104893 TWINKLE
103749 WASH DAY*
105033 WINGS & THINGS

Get in quick so you don't miss out. Bye for now Anna..

What's been happening....

2008-02-19T21:19:00.005+11:00

in my neck of the woods??

Well I had my daughters party on Saturday night, which was lots of fun. The girls all had a great time playing games and making lots of noise laughing and all that girly stuff that they do.

I thought I would show you how I did the lolly boxes I made. I usually try to do something different everytime with the lolly bags but have never used the pre-made noodle boxes. So when I saw them at a local shop they were $2 for 6 I thought I would give them a go and decorate them myself to match the invites. So this is what I came up with. I overfilled them with lollies so that I had to tape them down I think I went a bit overboard with the goodies as some of the boxes opened. In any case them I stamped them with Stampin' up stamps and inks to match the paper I had used for the invites and finished with a paper flower. Very easy and very cute. Finally I added a lolly to the side tied with ribbon and made a tag that said thank you with a stamped flower to the side of the tag. Here is a close up.

I had forgotten to photograph them on the Friday when we made them so I quickly grabbed my camera but Danielle had already given half of them out. In any case I managed to get a couple of quick shots, although they aren't perfect photos.

On the Sunday I had a kitchen tea to go to. Wow I haven't been to one of those for a couple of years now, it was lots of fun. Mind you the games are still the same!! LOL. I thought I would share the card I made for it. I have this divine cupcake paper so I thought it would be great for the kitchen theme. I just love it, it is so bright and pretty and goes with most colour cardstock you have around and is just perfect for parties. On the reverse side of the cupcake design is all the words inlcuding the 'Sweet treats' so I cut it out and mounted it onto more card stock and then stuck it on.

Okay that's about enough of an update for one post. Just a quick reminder about my classes and my craft day coming up on the 12th March from 10am - 2pm. Pencil it in your diary and send me an email to book your spot. It will be a fun day and I will be demonstrating a couple of techniques here and there. Only $10 and I will provide a light snack for lunch. Places are filling fast so get in quick I know its still a few weeks away but there are limited places.

Cute Valentines Day Card !!

2008-02-13T14:50:00.003+11:00

Tomorrow being Valentines day I made a few cards for our school card stand which is always in our office and for sale for anyone who would like to purchase them. So here is one of the cards that I made, I also made a few others but ran out of time to photograph them all and this one is so cute I thought I would upload it. I'm thinking maybe one of the older grade boys who may have a crush on one of the girls may want to purchase it. Although I'm not even sure if they do that sort of thing at that age .... can't remember that far back LOL. I know the photo is slightly lopsided but that's what happens when you take a photo and you have to rush out the door.

Anyway I hope you all have a lovely Valentines Day tomorrow. My husband and I don't really celebrate it in that its just another day, but I'm sure to lots of people out there it is a very special day!! As for me I think I'm going to buy my mum some lovely flowers and take them to her in that my Dad gave her a rose every Valentines Day and he's not around to do it so I feel compelled to do it on his behalf, I know he would like that. I hope your Valentines day is nice and even if you aren't the recipient of a special gift you can think about making someone else day that little more beautiful with a small token. Even a card with a chocolate can brighten up someone's day who wasn't expecting it. Anna

10 years ago today.....

2008-02-11T21:24:00.000+11:00

I had my first baby girl. I cannot believe she is now 10 OMG where has the time gone. I can't even show you a before shot AKA newborn shot because we weren't digital back then and sorry but I can't be bothered scanning an old photo in although I have just had a thought that I can photograph one of my very first scrapbooking pages which has Danielle in her first couple of days of life, so here she is at age O ..........

and then at age 10

She probably won't be happy that I have posted these images here and sorry about the photo quality. In any case. I just wanted to wish my beautiful daughter a very happy 10th birthday and welcome to the world of double numbers. Her party is next weekend although I did create a cake with some ice-cream topped with her favourites smarties, flake and crunchie bars which she just loved. HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANIELLE love from us all!!!

Back with more tomorrow. Night Anna

Have you recieved my Newsletter yet?????

2008-02-09T18:52:00.000+11:00

My Newsletter for February is hopefully now in everyone's inbox. I have quite a selection of classes to get you all motivated and inspired. One of the classes I am holding is 'So you think you can stamp!' named after the new TV series, 'So you think you can dance!' adorning our screens, which I am utterly hooked on so I decided to name one of my classes along those lines.

Here is a sample of one of the divine cards you will be making in this class. The class is all about different staming techniques, so you basically work at your own pace although I will demo the different techniques and then let you create. A fun class and suitable for any level. If you would like details or a copy of the newsletter send me an email with the word Newsletter in the subject line. My email address is pontikis@netspace.net.au.

I have been out all day today on the other side of town at one of the food markets in Melbourne, it was an interesting experience to say the least. So that's it for today. Enjoy the rest of the weekend. Anna

Another Birthday..

2008-02-06T11:52:00.001+11:00

Gee I thought I would have more time to get things done and that I could blog nearly every day but so far I am getting a couple of things done each morning and that's it until I pick my son up from school. Oh well I guess its only for a few weeks. I am actually enjoying the time with him untill we have to pick the girls up, it gives us a chance to do his readers and chat about his day. I miss him being around already, but at the same time am relishing in the freedom of walking away from school drop off in the mornings with only myself to worry about. A very unusual feeling but I'm sure I will adapt.

One of the things I have been busy with is getting my daughters Birthday invites done. I cannot believe my first baby is turning 10. Where did the time go, double numbers what a scarry thought. Attitudes have already been changing for a couple of years now, that whole pre-teen syndrome, so that's nothing new but who knows what other challenges will be thrown my way. Each day at time I suppose!! LOL, but they just grow far too quickly.

Anyway this is the invitation I put together for her. She's wanting a casual party at home, an evening type thing, but I still had to make a nice invitation. I just can't resist and she approved so everyone's happy. I think it is so nice to give out an invitation that has had time and thought put into it, it makes the recipient feel special and I think it shows the kids to be proud of creating something beautiful and not to just purchase something pre-made, its all become too quick and easy.

Anyway I used the criss cross card technique except the spotty paper was cut at a shorter angle to just add a bit of a different effect. The cardstock is from Stampin' Up, I love it, it is such a gorgeous colour. I love their A4 cardstock because it is so thick and lovely to work with and such a beautiful array of colours. The invite is then finished off with some ribbon, paper flower and a brad tooooo easy!!.

Well that's all for today. Just a reminder that SAB is still in force until the end of the month. So don't miss out, for every $100 you spend you get a free stamp set. Speak soon Anna

Times are a changing.......

2008-02-03T13:27:00.000+11:00

Well last week my (((baby))) 5 yr old, LOL... started school. I haven't had a chance to even post about it as the last few days have been quite hectic. I just wanted to make a note here for myself and journal this moment. It is such a feeling of relief and pride to finally get all my 3 children off to school. The relief that I made it and survived 10 years of being at home will little kids. The pride, I admit I am so proud of achieving such a milestone. I am normally humble and don't give myself enough credit for things I achieve, but I really want to make sure I achknowledge this new change as it will never return. I think I can feel a srap page coming on about this as I really want to remember this feeling. So for all you mums out there whether it is your first child off to school or your last, give yourself a pat on the back to have made that achievement, oh and of course enjoy the new found freedom, however much it may be and really do some inner focus !!!

Live, Create, Inspire

Anna

Kids Card Making - Today

2008-01-29T09:06:00.000+11:00

Hi Everyone, its officially the last day of the holidays for us in Melbourne. I know some of the other schools start towards the end of the week and some next week. But for us its tomorrow. Yeeeeee Haa!! I'm just a little excited, can you tell, for my children of course!! No really for the children.....

Anyway here is another sneak peak at a couple of the cards we will be making in the card making class today Tuesday. There are still places left so if you live in Melbourne and you would like to get the children entertained for a couple of hours just give me a call Ph: 0413 689 234.

Class is on from 1pm - 3.3opm. Class is $24 each or $22 each for 2 siblings or more. This includes lots of card making a bookmark to start the year (see previous post), a light afternoon tea and plenty of supplies and stamped images to continue at home to make a few more cards.

Bye for now Anna.

A cute bookmark to Treasure

2008-01-22T16:30:00.000+11:00

Hi everyone, I have to apologise that it has taken me longer to get images on here I had promised a couple of days ago, but having the kids home is just making it nearly impossible to get any work done and stay organised which is also wearing me a bit thin, but there is only a week left for these holidays so not long to go now. So if you are feeling the same there are still places available in these classes, the kids will have a ball making these stunning creations they will be proud of and you get to have a couple of hours of peace to do what you need to do!!

The Bookmark featured above I have designed for my kids class this Thursday and Next Tuesday. This class will incorporate making a few cards (whatever time will allow) and this beautiful bookmark to begin a new school year.

This bookmark is sure to get any child or adult reading like a bookworm. The initial a is for my name so the kids can put their initial if they like or even put something different if they want, I am very flexible. So as you can see this bookmark will be mine, finally, as I keep using scraps of paper as a bookmark so now I will have a proper one to use.

Okay next show and tell item is a card I made for Valentines Day. I used some gorgeous papers Sassafrass Lass and Cosmo Cricket and some chipboard shapes the L and the heart, painted and the heart was covered with paper and then stamped the o and e and cut them out. I love using all different letter styles it is very in and it gives you an opportunity to use up all the odd letters you have left. Of course what is a card without a Flower, button and some ribbon?????

So that's it for today, kids calling from the otherside of the house, so I just got enough time to load this up. I think I will have to do some late nights to get all my projects done. I hope you are all enjoying this last week of the holidays. Bye Anna.

Have you recieved my Newsletter yet?????

2008-01-20T11:58:00.000+11:00

Hi all, just popping in quickly to say that my Newsletter has been sent out into email world, so if you haven't recieved it or would like to be part of my Newsletter list please send me an email to pontikis@netspace.net.au with 'Send Newsletter' in the title page. New classes on the way and a couple scheduled to keep the kids busy in the next week or so. Must go but will be back either later tonight or tomorrow, starting to upload class samples, so check back. Have a great Sunday with family and friends. Love Creating!! Anna.

It's time to take advantage of Sale-a-bration

2008-01-17T16:36:00.000+11:00

We are mid way through January and I am yet to announce the new promotion for Stampin' up. Sale-a-bration has officially begun but will only be for a limited time 1st January - 29 February. For every $100 you spend you are entitled to get a free stamp set from the sale-a-bration catalogue. Its a great time to take advantage of this new year special. To view the catalogue click here. If you would like to recieve a free copy of this catalogue and the new summer mini then send me a email with your address to pontikis@netspace.net.au marked catalogue in the title and I will pop one in the mail to you that day.

Whilst I was on holidays I did a bit of crafting. I took a box of supplies just to make cards as I think it is too hard to drag along scrapbooking, because really you would need your whole craft room for that. Anyway here is a card I made using that gorgeous 'sweet' stamp again. The Flower which I have used in the card is from a Brand New Stampin' Up set which will be available in the new 2008 catalogue. It was a special Christmas Gift to all Stampin' Up Demonstrators from Shelli Gardner the SU Founder. So you will have to wait a couple of months for this one, its gorgeous though and worth the wait. The word 'Sweet' is from another stamp set from Sassafrass Lass.

The holidays seems to be flying by and to keeping the kids entertained and stopping them from always fighting can be a challenge now in the last couple of weeks. I know though that in 2 weeks it will all be over so I am trying to just enjoy the time with them before they all start school. Oh and before I go my brand new newsletter will be out by Saturday, so if you would like to recieve a copy then please let me know. I have a couple of last minute kids classes to keep you mums out there sane. Have fun in the sun!! LOL bye Anna

happy new year

2008-01-12T11:48:00.000+11:00

Better late than never, but Happy New Year!! everyone. Can you believe we are already nearly two weeks into the new year. I haven't had a chance to post as we have been away in Rye for the last week. It was beautiful warm weather the whole time and we went to the beach every single day. In fact we all kind of miss those cleansing dips in the ocean. The kids had lots of fun playing in the sand and the sun and the warm water. The beach is so perfect there for kids its not surf beach so kids can actually enjoy the water without huge waves its the best really and at least us as parents can relax to some degree, although they were constantly surpervised with one of us in the water with them but at least you don't have to stand over them the whole time.

Now I have done some crafting as I mentioned in my last post, although just no time to update. I won't try to do it all in one post. Here is a card I actually made early into the new year as we were going to visit a friend for a BBQ and see her new house. I had seen in other blogs the chipboard houses so thought I would follow that theme and just cut out bits of patterened paper into the shape of a house. So easy and so effective. Good for using up all the scraps. The home is just using rub ons. A very easy card and I just love it and my friend loved it too.

Another card I made was this little gift card. Last year I purchased some acrylic stamps from Sassafrass Lass. In the set is the word Sweet I love how it is written and it just looks great on cards when stamped, I have used it for several cards. This card is a small size and I gave it with a birthday gift. My lovely SIL Meri gave me a roll of beautiful glossy white paper as a gift and now it compliments any card I make once I co-ordinate the ribbon with the card I often give my cards in see through bags rather than enevelopes which means I can do any size card and now with the white brackground wrapping paper it looks just fabulous and almost professionally wrapped, so thanks Meri. Sorry about the blurry photo of the card but I hope you get the idea. It was a sweet little card too 'pardon the pun'.

Anyway I have lots more to tell but will do it in stages as I am sure I would bore you with a huge long post. I hope you are all enjoying the freshness and hope that a new year brings as well as R & R with family and friends. I am looking forward to this year, have lots of inspiration and am very motivated about what lies ahead. Lots to do and I hope to take all of you on the journey along with me. I hope you are all inspired to be creative this year and embrace the New Year with all it has too offer. More next post!! Take Care. Anna

What, its over that quick!!!

2007-12-27T18:58:00.000+11:00

It never ceases to amaze me how months of preparation for just one day and then before you know it the day is over with. Its a bit like a wedding day really!!! When I mean preparation the pressies, the decorating, the baking etc etc..... and I didn't even host Christmas Day lunch or dinner.

Well Christmas has come and gone and I didn't even get a chance to get on here and wish everyone a Happy Christmas. So instead I would like to wish everyone who reads my blog, my customers, friends and family and anyone else out there a very happy and safe festive season with all your family and friends and may the New Year be filled with every dream that you wish to manifest into your reality in 2008.

Christmas was a little different for me this year, not quite the same as other years and I certainly wasn't all that much in the Christmas spirit although I made a huge effort to carry on for family and friends, as I am sure some of my other family members did. My children were spoilt rotten from both their parents and santa as well as family. They always get heaps of new presents, which remain scattered throughout the house over the next week. One of the gifts though that was my husbands idea is this (photo below). Thankfully I don't have to keep picking it up and putting it away, its all my husbands domain, to supervise, start it up and put away. Don't you just love those sorts of pressies. I only took a few photos this year, most of which weren't very good I guess taking photos wasn't really on my mind. As you can see in the background of this photo the old electric motorbike has been superseeded by the brand new petrol one and now my son has well and trully become a petrol head at the tender age of 5. Oh well I guess if he gets it out of this system now all the better (I hope).

Here are a couple of other quick photos for the day, my daughter very excited and clueless that she was recieving a playstation 2 and singastar as that wasn't even on the list and finally

My other daughter Melanie with two of my nephews Daniel and Cam. All up it was a busy day with heaps of eating and chatting and lots of gift giving as can be expected of Christmas Day.

Now I have the wonderful job of doing some major cleaning and decluttering of my craft room. It has really been neglected the last few months and it shows. Although it would be fabulous to have a whole day to just knuckle down and sort I think it will have to be done in stages as I can't fathom ignoring the kids for the whole day nor would I get that luxury. I think I might have to use the flylady method of 15mins at a time, so wish me luck with that.

Well I am not sure when I will post next but I guess when I get a chance I will pop on here throughout the summer and update as often as I can and I plan to get some crafting done, hopefully a fair bit. Towards the end of January I hope to have a brand spanking new Newsletter out so first things first to get organised and some structure and then I will be back on track. Till next time enjoy the long hot summer days ahead!! and keep Safe. Anna

Gift Card...... too easy!!!!!

2007-12-18T21:55:00.000+11:00

Stuck on some last minute gift ideas, haven't got time to get to the shops and really don't want too??? The thought of facing the long ques, choc o block shopping centres, the carpark hunt, especially on those hot days, well this answer is too easy, how about a gift card for Stampin' Up Products. You can choose any value and I am more than happy to mail you the gift card if you can't pick it up. The gift cards look like the photo above, so if you like that idea, send me an email or ph: 0413 689 234. Later Anna.

CHRISTMAS CAPERS

2007-12-16T20:41:00.001+11:00

As promised here are a couple of Christmas things I have been working on. Well firstly I thought I would show the kiddies decorating the tree. Of course my eldest daughter didn't want to be in the photo as they were in pjs, you know that whole growing up image thing. So here is my younger two helping to trim the tree. I debated whether to put the tree up this year but decided that for the kids sake that I should and I know that my father would have wanted us all to celebrate Christmas as normal as though he were still here. So finally we put the tree up last weekend.

Here is a cute Christmas Card I made I have seen this idea floating around on line and thought I would give it a go, it is really quite simple to do, the hardest part is gluing the buttons in the right place. Its quite an inexpensive card to make and it uses all those buttons you have floating around, of which I have many. I did a photo close up as well as so you could see it better. The patterened paper used is the Stampin' Up patterned Christmas Paper which is now no longer available. It suited the back drop for the button Christmas tree perfectly. Sorry about the blurry photos took the photos at night so they haven't come out too good.

Speaking of SU I must site the funniest incident this morning, the doorbell rang at about 10am and I was thinking I wonder who is here as I wasn't expecting anyone. Anyway my son runs to the door as they do and announces there's a package mum. Well I thought that's strange for a Sunday, well low and behold my order which I placed on Wednesday afternoon with SU had arrived. So all you ladies who placed your orders with me (and I will email you individually incase you don't read here) your goodies are here. To be honest I was expecting everything towards the end of the week so it was a pleasant surprise and great service Stampin' Up for the week before Christmas. That's it from me for the moment as the kids are getting grumpy must help get them to bed. Be back during the week. Thanks Anna.

And the Winner is????

2007-12-14T08:37:00.000+11:00

CAROL MAXTON. Congratulations Carol on winning the $25 Stampin' Up gift voucher. When I rang Carol to let her know that she had won the competition, she was speechless and utterly excited. So thank you to everyone who placed orders with me and entered the competion, I wish I could have given everyone a gift voucher because you are all just such fabulous customers. However I will certainly be running more giveaways in the New Year so that will be more opportunities to win something. Once again thanks to everyone. I have to make this post short and sweet as I must get the kiddlets off to school. I know I promised to post some Christmas themed projects and I haven't forgotten just very busy, but I will definitely post this weekend with some projects. Have a great day. Anna

Enchante Paper - Summer Mini Catalogue Christmas Special

2007-12-10T13:03:00.000+11:00

Here are a couple of samples as promised of how to use some of the beautiful patterened paper in the Summer Mini. This paper is called Enchante. This paper is so French and so divine, I can see myself using it for just about anything. From Scrapping, to cards to anything off the page.

Here I have made a gorgeous bow to pop on pressies, or add to a scrapbooking page you could make a mini version. So quick and easy and perfect for matching to your card. Then you could just use plain white wrapping paper with some stamping from the set Carte Postale and there you have it a matching wrapped gift set.

In this card I have used a saying from the Simply Said Stamp set which is in the main catalogue, I love this little saying from the set. This would be great to give a teacher as a thank you rather than doing the traditional Christmas card it is a bit more heartfelt and the glitter heart gives it some Christmas bling. Used a Chipboard heart using Dazzling Diamonds and Heat and Stick Powder to get the glitter effect.

Don't forget you can get any of this beautiful stuff at 10% off until tomorrow night see post below for full details and a chance to go into a draw to win a Stampin' Up $25 gift voucher if you spend a minimum of $50. You need to be in it to win it so place your order, Stampin' up make great Christmas gifts for anyone crafty, a stamp set will last forever.

Email me your orders or contact me on Ph: 0413 689 234. Tomorrow I will have something Christmassy to show and tell using the limited edition SU Christmas Papers range, available only for a few more days and you get a double discount on those as they are already reduced. So don't miss out on stocking up on some great Christmas Paper so you have plenty to scrap your photos with after Christmas. Have a great day. Anna

New Stampin' Up Summer Mini Catalogue - Special Promotion

2007-12-05T12:34:00.000+11:00

The new Stampin' Up Mini Catalogue is finally in full swing. I am now able to begin taking orders. Take a look at it Here. Once your are on the website click View Catalogues and then you can see both the Main catalogue and the Summer Mini Catalogue. A couple of nights ago I sent an email around to everyone on my email list with a special Christmas promotion exclusive to me to say thank you to all my wonderful customers for their support and friendship.

Place an order of $60 or more before postage and handling and I will take 10% off your purchase not including postage. For every $50 you spend you get an entry into a draw to win a $25 Stampin' Up gift voucher. So spend $100 and you get 2 entries and so on. This will run only until next Tuesday so be quick as I will be placing orders next Wednesday to ensure the orders arrive well before Christmas, order & payment must reach me by Tuesday.

There are some beautiful sets in this newly released mini. Your orders can be from the Main Catalogue the Summer Mini or the limited edition Christmas Patterened Papers, see post below for samples of this paper. Don't delay as its a great deal on the new stamp sets and a chance for the voucher. For orders email me at pontikis@netspace.net.au. or phone M: 0413 689 234. Also a quick reminder I am happy to do gift vouchers of any denomination so email me if you would like to give this sort of gift. A great gift idea would be a copy of the main catalogue with an accompanying gift voucher to whatever value you like. Hope this helps with some hassle free Christmas shopping ideas. Finally if you would like a hard copy of the Summer Mini, email me your address and I will pop one in the mail absolutely free. Have a great day. Anna

Christmas Fever!!!

2007-11-29T18:17:00.000+11:00

As the whole Christmas Fever begins to gain momentum and snowball into gift buying, card making, decorating and baking I thought I would get the ball rolling with making a Christmas Card last night.

In this card I used a roller stamp from the Spring Mini Catalogue called Petals to make this card. This stamp is very versatile as it can be used for normal cards and then also for a Christmas theme as I have done here with the reds and greens. This stamp will not be available after tomorrow just one of the gorgeous stamps in the Spring Mini. Just a final reminder that if you would like to purchase anything from that Spring Mini, email me by tomorrow lunchtime as ordering from this mini ends tomorrow.

On this card I used the Happy Holidays stamp from the Riveting set. I learn't the faux metal technique at the Stampin' Up Regionals a few weeks back, so I only just got a chance to test it out. This was one of many great new techniques that were demonstrated, so I was very excited to finally give the technique a test run and see if it would work for me. The Silver embossing powder I used had a sparkle through it hence the sparkly metal look.

If you would love to see this technique demonstrated contact me for an update of my rescheduled Christmas Class which was postponed from last month. Have a great night. Bye Anna.

Catching Up on SU News

2007-11-28T12:55:00.000+11:00

Given the couple of months I have just had I didn't really keep up with SU Announcements or Specials etc. So here is a couple. Firstly is the Just in Thyme Promotion. This is an exclusive range of Patterened Paper for Christmas from Stampin Up. The 12 Sheets of double sided paper usually retails for $16.95 but until mid December it is just $14.95. To make the deal even sweeter I will not charge you postage on top of that, so you pay only $14.95 for 12 sheets of paper what a bargain and it is thick paper with a different pattern on each side and look at all the gorgeous things you can make with it. Don't miss out as there is only a couple of weeks left to get the paper at the reduced rate. Besides the quicker you buyer the sooner you can use it and get started on all those Christmas Cards and Crafts.

Another announcement is that you only have a couple more days to order from the spring mini catalogue which ends at the end of November. So if you have any last minute orders email me or call today so I can order by the 31st November.

Finally another promotion which I didn't really have a chance to mention here is the All in the Family Promotion. Stampin’ Up!’s Australian General Manager, Dave Abbott, passed away on October 18. Stampin’ Up! is setting up a fund to help Dave’s wife and three young children through this difficult time. For the month of November (so there is only a couple of days left), all the proceeds from the sale of this stamp set worldwide will be donated to the fund.

The All in the Family stamp set retails at $73.95 but as a special offer I will make it available to Customers for $63.95 + postage & handling. So if you would like to support this family there is only a couple of days left to order this set. As you can see from the photos below all the parts can be mixed and matched. A very cute set.

That's all the annoucements for today sorry for such a long post, but they have been accouncements long overdue. When my pack of the Just in Thyme paper arrives in the next couple of days I will endeavour to pop up some projects using this divine paper. Have a great day, and if you are interested in any of the above email me asap pontikis@netspace.net.au. See you Anna.

Another Birthday come and gone for this year.

2007-11-26T10:56:00.000+11:00

I had my daughter Melanie's small birthday party on Sunday. I thought I would share the cutest little lolly bags that I made. Its one of the first crafty things I have done for a while now so it is good to get into the flow of creativity again. I baged up the lollies as I usually do in a cellophane bag and then made a little pouch for them to sit in. The kids helped me stamp the paper and fold the little pouches, they are super easy and super quick.

So that now completes all of my 3 children's birthday parties for the year I can now relax until next year and not have to worry about the whole birthday party thing, although, it is only a month until Christmas and I haven't even begun to think about that. So I guess I had better make a start on Christmas presents and Christmas Cards.

Well that's all today and I will try and update a bit more regularly actually, just before I go I thought I would mention that Meri has a Randomn Act of Kindness Giveaway on her blog, so check it out and leave a comment to be in the draw, you have until Thursday. The link to her blog is in my sidebar with all the other blogs, called 'Heart Loves and Other Stuff'. Have a great week, Anna

goodbye Dad!

2007-11-13T08:23:00.000+11:00

Irma & Camillo Angelucci

Well it is with great sadness that last Wednesday I lost my Dad. I am still in shock about the loss and the circumstances surrounding it, as my parents had just returned from a 2 month holiday in Italy only to be confronted by my Father suffering a stroke 3 days after his return. Three weeks of trying to help him recover against all odds were unfortunately fruitless. Although it did mean that we as his family we were able to show him love and healing and be there for him in his last couple of weeks. We are a very close family but it meant we had to really pull together and be strong for each other and Mum.

Yesterday we buried my Dad and it was a very moving tribute to such a wonderful, well loved and respected man by all the Italian Community both young and old and in fact with anyone whom he interacted on a day by day basis. My Dad was a real inspiration and cared a lot about humanity and giving people a go and yesterday the Church was filled with over 600 people who all came to pay testament to how he touched their lives and inspired them or just gave them work opportunities whilst running his catering business Angelucci's Reception Centre for over 30 years.

I try as much as I can to live the way my Father did as there are many aspects of his personality in me which I am proud to have and I hope that throughout my lifetime I remember all that he gave and pay it forward in his honour. Good bye Dad and I love you, Anna.

I don't normally do personal posts on this blog, however I know that a few of you out there have emailed me and shown concern about myself and my father so I thought I would do a post to honour Dad and inform you of how things had progressed. Remember to love all those around you and be there in the present moment when you are with someone and tell them how you feel so there is nothing left unsaid when the opportunities to say it are no longer there. Have a great day. Thanks Anna

A quick message

2007-10-22T19:11:00.000+10:00

I know that I promised to upload the other two Christmas cards Sat/Sund, but unfortuately my Father become ill on Friday Night and was rushed to hospital. So for the moment I won't be blogging, as I am putting all my energy and attention to being there and supporting my Mother and Family and helping Dad. At this stage the classes schedule will still go ahead, so if you have booked in that is fine and there is still some room left. As for all the other commitments with this blog just for a little while until things settle I won't be updating. Thanks Anna

Christmas Card Sneak Peak # 2

2007-10-19T14:08:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone, I have been awake since the early hours of the morning and so am starting to feel like it should be bed time, except its 2.19pm. Where has the week gone I cannot believe it is already Friday.

In any case I promised to show you a sneak peak each day so I bring you a newly created Christmas Gift Card/Tag. To be honest I have made this one generic, so it could be used for a birthday or anything really, but the papers used have a bright Christmas feel to them, however in the class you will have two options either to use this paper or a more Christmas themed paper. Sorry about the blurry photos but I was in a hurry when taking the photo but I think you get the idea. I must say these photos actually don't do these cards justice they are even more stunning in real life. This card has a little pull out tag to write a message on , these would be great on all the Christmas pressies this year for something a little different. They don't take that long to make either once you have been shown. Be the talk of the town this Christmas with these stunning cards. Once again email me for class details, places are filling fast I only have a couple of places left in the Wednesday Class. If you would like a copy of my newsletter then send me your email address and I am happy to post one out. Thanks for looking. Happy Friday I will be back with more tomorrow.

Christmas Cards Sneak Peak # 1

2007-10-18T15:12:00.000+10:00

Okay Okay, I know its been a while and I promised to several customers some sneak peaks of my Christmas Card Class so here, better late than never, although I have to make this really quick as I have to leave shortly, but here is a sneak peak of the first Christmas Card for my Christmas Card Class. I have decided to do something a little different and show one card each day over the next few days. Here is the first. At this stage I have bookings for both classes, the Wednesday and the Saturday. If you would like details shoot me an email. There will be different techniques used for each, stamping, embossing, folding techniques, etc etc, jam packed with Christmas Spirit. Must Go, Later Anna.

October Spring Special - Stampin' Up

2007-10-12T21:32:00.000+10:00

I mentioned really briefly a week ago about the brand new October Special for Stampin' Up and said I would post about it in more detail. Well a week has gone by and I have finally made a card to show you a sample of the Stamp Set in question. Stampin' Up have bundled three of our their popular coordinating products for the easiest way to spread the joys of spring.

For the price of the Looks Like Spring stamp set and the Spring Bouquet Flower punch, you'll get a free package of Spring Flowers or Spring Showers Designer Series paper (a $16.95 value).

Purchase the Spring Flowers Bundle or the Spring Showers Bundle during October, and discover how easy it is to make stunning projects inspired by spring.

Spring Flowers Bundle (item 111430, $88.90)Includes the Spring Bouquet Flower punch, Looks Like Spring stamp set, and Spring Flowers Designer Series paper

Spring Showers Bundle (item 111429, $88.90) Includes the Spring Bouquet Flower punch, Looks Like Spring stamp set, and Spring Showers Designer Series paper

The card above was made using this stamp set. I don't actually own the punch as yet but this was the first SU stamp set I purchased, actually before I was even a demonstrator I bought it from my upline Jo at the workshop she did for me. So I guess for me this set goes way back. On this card I have used some of the co-ordinating papers. It is a stunning set so if you have been thinking of purchasing it, now is the time. Send me an email if you would like to order it or even have me demonstrate it at your workshop. Offer for this package is only through October.

Mini Album

2007-10-10T11:42:00.000+10:00

As promised I have heaps to update. I will begin firstly with the kids class I taught last week during the class term holidays. This is the mini scrapbook album which the kids had the opportunity to create. This is my completed sample, I did mine on our first ever family snow trip. The papers were just perfect because there were so many colours in the papers they pretty much blended with any photos. The girls all got creative and although the album was constructed the same for everybody the inside was decorated individually using their own creative ideas and themes and photos. The girls all enjoyed constructing the album and decorating it and all asked on their way out when they could come back for the next class. So I am very glad that it was such a success and the girls enjoyed it so much they want to come back again. I haven't taught younger students so this was a first for me also to see what level they were at. This album is actually tailored to adults and was perhaps a bit advanced for the younger ones nevertheless with my help during every step the girls managed to get it completed. So well done girls you all did really well. As for another class with the kids perhaps later on in the year not sure when I will be able to schedule one in to suit both myself and the kids.

I must also mention I have a couple of kits left over so if you would like to purchase one send me an email. All the instructions are included and all materials supplied except for tools, you will just need to add adhesive, paper cutter, scissors, scorer or scoring blade, a mini hammer with the eyelet setter to punch the hole or a crop-o-dile if you have one and a circle cutter (optional). Everything else is included so you just more or less need the tools and some creative flair. I added a couple of extras into the class for girls to use ie florals and buttons so I would add these to the kits if you purchase one.

Okay here is the card I mentioned yesterday with my new Stampin' Up stamp set purchase Wild Rose. I have been eyeing this set from when the new 07 catalogue came out but kept thinking maybe, maybe not would I use etc etc, anyway I finally caved and purchased it and I am so glad I did. This is one of Stampin' Up 2 step stamping sets. I just love it. I have made a few cards with this set and here is a sample of one that I did. The patterened paper underneath isn't SU it is a cherry arte paper, but it just all blended so well with the Pink Passion Ink Pad and Card stock, which is what the rose image is stamped in. So if you are interested in this set I am happy to do a workshop and demonstrate the techniques using this set. Alternatively if you would like to purchase this set or a catalogue to see what other sets are available just send me an email and I will get back to you.

Okay I think this post has gotten long enough. I have to mention, I have given my son some housekeeping jobs to keep him occupied for a little while so I can get some things completed, he is currently washing dishes which I thought would be a fun job with the water and bubbles etc. He's having great fun and doing a great job too, but hearing the dishes clinking I can daydream for a moment that perhaps I have a cleaning lady, if only!! Have a great day. Anna

Have you recieved my October Newsletter Yet???

2007-10-09T09:58:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone, just a quick post today as I have a busy day ahead. Lots of things happening in my life at the moment all good but I just thought I would pop in here for the quickest of updates.

My October Newsletter was sent out last week to eveyone on my email list. If you have missed out or would like to recieve my Newsletter then send me an email with the word Newsletter in the Subject and I will put you on my email list. I was going to upload a card today that I created with a brand new SU set that I purchased last week, but the camera has gone walkabouts and I suspect one of my children has been using it and I cannot seem to find it. Of course they are at school so I can't even ask where it might be. I will try and get a thorough update on here either tonight or tomorrow. Later Anna

A little Card Making Challenge!!

2007-10-06T19:11:00.000+10:00

Just thought I would show a card I was asked to make for my Cousin who is to be the Godmother at a Christening tomorrow. She asked if I would create a personalised Card with the name of the little girl who is to be Christened. To be honest sometimes I get creativity freeze when asked to do something specific and I over analyse what to do and how to do it, because I want it to be really special. This card took me at least and hour to think and plan and put together, a bit silly I know. I guess though once the design is created then to make other cards using the same design takes much less time. I thought I would put a bit of a challenge up here just for some fun. If you would like to use the same layout I have used on this card but make it your own style and products and email me the photo I will pop them up here on my blog. Just a bit of a fun challenge, anyone interested. Send me an email. Have a great night everyone. Anna

WORLD CARD MAKING DAY - STAMPIN' UP SPECIAL PROMOTION

2007-10-04T20:51:00.000+10:00

World Card Making Day is fast approaching and I haven't had a chance to pop something on this blog about it. So here goes the day is October 7th. To celebrate this day Stampin' Up is running a special promotion which is valid only for orders placed between 4th - 8th October. Stampin' Up is taking 20% off the price of their 4 Simply Sent Card Kits. The Kits can be viewed here if you don't have a catalogue. This is absolutely great value especially if you are a beginner and not sure where to start with all the supplies. These Card Kits have it all there for you and instructions on how to create your cards. You will just need to add adhesive. As a special bonus offer for any orders placed with me for these kits I will offer free postage. So don't hesitate as this special ends on 8th October, order must be placed by then. Back with more tomorrow. Anna

Do Your Kids Need A Break from You!! LOL - Kids Mini Scrapbook Album Class

2007-10-03T15:45:00.000+10:00

Here is a snippet of all the Class Kits prepared for tomorrows class. This is a Mini Scrapbook Album Class. I am excited about this, as it is the first time I will be teaching the younger ones and am eager to see how it turns out. Due to a couple of last minute cancellations I now have 3 places remaining if you would like your children to attend. The class is tomorrow from 10am-1pm. I will also be providing morning tea snacks. If you cannot make the class tomorrow or would still like to purchase the pack for you or your child then you can purchase a pack with all the instructions to make this mini album at home. If you would like to have the kids entertained for 3 hours tomorrow doing something creative that they love, then don't hesitate to book in. Just send me an email with your phone number and I will contact you to discuss it all. I will be back with more to share tomorrow. Thanks Anna

Up with the birds, actually before the birds I think....

2007-10-02T09:57:00.000+10:00

Well this morning my son came into our bed at 4am and it woke me up to the point where I couldn't fall back asleep. So after lying there for what seemed like forever with my brain fully alert and churning with all the things I had to accomplish in the next couple of days I decided to just get up and make a start. So I have been up for what seems like forever, it feels like it should be lunchtime but it is only just on 10am.

Anyway I have been creating quite a few cards the last couple of days and this little interesting little felt creation was made last night whilst watching TV. I usually feel guilty when watching TV because I think there is so much more that needs to be done but last night I figured if I was creating at the same time it wasn't as bad. Anyway I just cut out this flower with felt and did a blanket stitch all the way around. I then layered gingham ribbon like a flower and added some beads. Not sure what I will use it for I have just photographed on the red paper for the effect but it is not attached. May even use it as a Christmas Decoration or Book Mark or Something not sure what. I have been motivated to sew with felt after seeing all the beautiful creations on Melissa's Blog. She is one talented lady who has a passion for fabric and sewing and reading her blog seems to ignite that same motivation in me. There is just something about fabric I have always loved it but never really been good at sewing. I don't think I have the patience. Maybe these little sewing projects here and there will satisfy this passion to sew.

Here are another couple of cards I have made over the last week or so. I have such a big stash of product and I obviously cannot seem to curb the urge to buy more so I figure at least if I create with it, then it is justified. Anyone else feel that way? How can one be addicted to paper and embellishments. To the person who doesn't create imagine the total look of disdain and confusion at how someone can spend so much money on all this stuff. Well I have decided that I don't really want to try and justify it anymore, its my thing. Everyone has their little collection of something whether it shoes, or bags or clothes, so I guess Scrapping products are mine.

This second photo isn't all that clear but you get the idea. It is actually a gorgeous card IRL. The photo doesn't do it justice. I love this little stamped sentiment from the SU set Blooming with Happiness. Final card is just a card I made using, Three Bugs in a Rug Design board. They are like mini little funky coasters with little sayings on them. So I picked my coaster with the saying 'Power of Love,' and then chose the colours from the coaster to compliment the colours for the rest of the card, ie, patterened Paper and Ribbon, flower etc. A very quick and easy card.

Finally Stampin' Up have a special for the month of October, called Looks Like Spring. I will write a proper post about this tomorrow so I can show you the stamp set, but if you would like to have a look at the offer because you just can't wait go here. I think this post is long enough for today and the kids have gone quiet which means they are up to something. He he he.... Happy Creating Anna.

And The Winner Is...........

2007-10-01T07:13:00.000+10:00

I hadn't forgotten about this blog candy, I have just been away for the weekend, and only just got back yesterday afternoon. Okay well I wont delay any further, I got one of my children to pick a number between 1 and 29 and they picked number 23 so the winner of my blog candy is LAUREN. Congratulations Lauren. Email me your address and I will send you out the goodies. Thank you to everyone for your comments it was interesting to read what you all love to create with and for those of you that have a blog I had a bit of a sneak peak as well, love to see everyones creations.

No show and tell today but will be back with more tomorrow. I will be emailing my October Newsletter with new Classes coming out in the next week, so check your inboxes for that one.

Have a great day all. Anna

OMG I can't believe the response!!!!

2007-09-26T21:17:00.000+10:00

Well I am so surprised at all the comments. I thought I would only get a few replies, but am glad to have so many people make the effort to reply. I forgot to mention as I was so excited to post this little giveaway that you have until Sunday to leave a comment to be in the draw and I will pick a randomn winner out of a hat from all the comments, well actually I will get one of my kids to draw it. So you still have time, don't be shy, if you read my blog from time to time please leave a comment I would love to hear from you and you don't have to be a blogger, to leave a comment. Check the previous post for full details!!!

Onto other stuff today we had a bit of a family day out in the city, we took the tram and went to Port Melbourne and then the State Library to look at the arhitecture and gallery of Ned Kelly and other olde world stuff. Lunch at a little cafe and then just a wonder around the shops. Boy was it busy lots of people everywhere. I don't go into the city much these days so I was quite overwhelmed at how many people were around. Here are a few photos of the day. First one we are on our way to catch the tram, obviously I am behind the camera. Second photo is of my kiddies striking a pose on 3 beautifully positioned pedestals. Don't you just the love the huge sunglasses, they are of course mine, but my daughter insisted on wearing them on an overcast day. Finally outside the state library there was this beautifully painted lightpost and I just had to get a photo being one who appreciates all that sort of stuff.

Of course my eldest said I'm not going in that photo there are too many people around how embarrasing and my youngest was over it at that stage, but Melanie my middle child said ok I'll do it. So here it is how beautifully painted is this post. There were a few in a row painted like this one a nice little Melbourne feature.

Okay I think I have chatted enough about my day. I am off to make some cards, have heaps to make and I don't seem to be getting much done during the day with the kids on holidays. By the way a big hello and (((((hugs))))) to my big sister Dina all the way in Washington who I know takes the time to read this blog when she gets a chance, we miss you heaps!!

Have a great night, sleep tight. Anna

Roll Up, Roll Up, ....... BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY!!!

2007-09-25T08:48:00.000+10:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well I have been up since 6.30am what is it with the school holidays the kids are up earlier than school days!!! What the???? Anyway it feels like it should already be midday but no its only 8.50am. As promised I thought I would get my Blog Candy up here nice and early. The only thing you have to do to win a Pizza Box full of scrapping goodies is leave me a comment telling me what are your favourite item/s to create with.

In this pack is a selection of my favourite items, Beautiful patterened paper (there is a newby here from the latest release Basic Grey Range Mellow 'Flavourful' just luuuurve it. There are flowers, ribbons, buttons, bling, chipboard, Fabric, tags and more patterned paper. Can't get enough of that patterned paper, it hooks you in on first glance and of course its another piece added to the ever growing pile to be created into a masterpiece. Only problem is I accumulate more than I have time to create with. So anyway here is my first ever giveaway, so don't miss out, all you have to do is hit the comments button underneath this post and leave me a comment. Have a great day everyone. I think I am up for some retail therapy today, just not sure if dragging 3 kids along is going to be so much good therapy!!! LOL. Bye, bye. Anna

2007-09-24T14:13:00.001+10:00

a weekend update

2007-09-24T08:37:00.000+10:00

Well it certainly has been a busy week topped off with a busy weekend. As you all know from the last post my son turned 5 last week so we had his party yesterday at the Park. It was a beautiful day and all the kids had a fabulous time playing games and having party food and playing treasure hunt. I spent until the early hours of Sat morning making a Lightning McQueen Cake, (big mistake). Now look I am fairly crafty but when it comes to icing a cake in great detail with lots of instructions, I bum out. I have a made a few cakes in my time for the parties as I am fairly strong willed and keeping trying again, just like childbirth you keep going back after you forget about the pain, its the sam for me with birthday cakes the lesson isn't learned, I might purchase a couple for the next party or two and then get a brainwave to bake a difficult bday cake again the next time. Well I am writing this to give myself a note its not worth the stress just buy the cake next time!!!! You can see a snippet of the cake in this photo. Okay enough family stuff lets get onto some creativity.

Okay firstly I noticed my blog has hit the 2000 hits mark so I have decide to do A Blog giveaway, but you will have to check back because I will be putting it up on here tomorrow. Now I am doing this giveaway for two reasons, one becuase I genuinely am in the mood for a RAK (Randomn Act of Kindness) and secondly, its obvious that there are lots of you checking my blog from time to time and I would love for you to leave me some comments from time to time. So check back tomorrow for full details.

On the weekend apart from my sons birthday on Saturday I had an SU workshop. I decided to do something a little different from my usual make and takes and create something beyond the page. So I went onto SCS and found this tutorial for a 2-5-7-10 Box. So if you want to have a go click on the link and follow the tutorial its not that hard to make. This box is great for a teachers gift to pop something in or for lolly bags or bonbonierre. Now I know it says to use an 8.5 inch width sheet of paper and of course the A4 paper goes to 8.25 inch. Just disregard it, as it still works with the slight smaller width paper, you just need to cut down the longer end to 11 inches. I finished mine off using the scalloped edge with the corner rounder punch and added a bow. Stampin' up Jumbo roller Scribble from the Mini Catalogue. I also used the Christmas stamp set Holiday

Spirit. I stamped the word Joy and embossed with Dazzling Diamonds. The ladies in the workshop loved doing this project and were so proud that they actually made a box. If you would like me to come and teach you how to make this box, then think about having an SU workshop in your home. They are lots of fun. One other card I wanted to show you was the one below. I used a new technique I haven't tried before. I was on the phone to my upline Jo last week and she mentioned something about Poppin Pastels and having demonstrated it at a recent workshop she did. So I thought as I got off the phone I haven't tried that technique and I really need to advance my stamping knowledge, so off I went to find another tutorial on this technique. Well its so quick and easy that you just have to try it. All you do is stamp your image with a versamark clear pad and then using the pastels you pick up your colour on cotton wool or the SU stamp daubers work really well also and dab the stamped image with the powder from the pastel or chalks. The top layer of flower in this card and the centre circle was used with this technique. So easy and so effective. I used a couple of colours and thats how I got the rainbow effect two tone colours.

Well I think this post has gotten long enough. I think I have updated everything. Just a quick note kids mini album class is booked out for next week but I still have places in my kids creative card making class next Monday 10am-12pm. Email me for details if you are interested. Have a great start to the holidays. Anna

In the blink of an eye.......

2007-09-18T22:27:00.000+10:00

This little adorable angel,

Became this 5yr old little man

who loves zooming around the house with cars and setting up racing tracks at all different angles. Where did the time go? I know everyone says the time will fly before you know it they'll be off too school, well I think when your in the thick of it raising pre-schoolers the time takes forever, but then when you look back just as they are about to head off to school the 5 yrs is just a blur. Thank goodness for scrapbooking and the fact that some of the most wonderful memories are documented, as sometimes its hard enough remembering the agenda for the week let alone the past few years. Oh and by the way I couldn't put a baby photo here as I would have liked because no digital pictures back then and it was just too much effort to scan a photo etc etc. Anyway HAPPY BIRTHDAY, to my beautiful boy!!!!! Don't you just love, not one but five Happy Birthday stickers, from Kinder, a very happy boy today, two cakes and two lots of candles to blow and one more on the weekend.

Kids Mini Class Album - Sneak Peak

Okay onto something I have been promising. Here is a sneak peak of the kids class mini album. This Mini Kit was actually designed by Nic Howard, from the Aussie Scrap Source design team. I decided to teach an already designed kit just to see how it goes, but I have adapted it to a kids class adding some things and eliminating others. The subjects can be different for each child, and the front cover title can also change. If you would like to purchase a kit either for yourself or your child, as you cannot make the holiday class, email me at pontikis@netspace.net.au. This album is a fabulous holiday activity and fairly easy to make, if I can follow instructions then anyone can. The full instructions with the pack are very easy and straightforward, you just need some basic cutting equipment. This is even a great project to do with your child and spend some quality time together.

This post is long enough and I am very tired a big day ahead tomorrow with lots too catch up on. Good Night, Sleep Tight. Anna

A different Colour Scheme

2007-09-15T17:23:00.000+10:00

Today I thought I would show a quick card I whipped up using the colour combination of brown and blue with a splash of yellow. The papers used for this card are from Stampin' Up. I just love their cardstock, it is just such great value and thick and perfect for making cards and scrapbooking. The cardstock colour used is Buckaroo Blue and the Patterened Paper is from the Sentimental Journey range which is more of a male themed pack but mixed here like this will a bit of yellow and white who would know. I stamped the flower from Office Accroutement in the Mini Catalogue and the Thanks so much stamp is from the set Riveting which is a Hostess Gift Set, so you can't purchase it but you can earn it free with a workshop or customerl order of $300 or more. These images are both stamped using buckaroo blue.

Today seems to have flown so quickly I thought it was about 3.30pm and then looked at the clock only to see that is was 5.15pm. I thought I had plenty of time before starting dinner but not really. Anyway I wanted to get this card photographed and on here before it got dark as the cards don't show up too well when photographed at night.

If you would like to order anything shown here, just send me an email using the link in the sidebar. Will have my kids class sample up in the next couple of days, only 2 places left in the Thursday class date being 4th October 10am-1pm. So be quick as the numbers are limited. Happy Creating. Anna

Invitations

2007-09-11T17:02:00.000+10:00

I came across a great idea for invitations the other day on this other Stampin' Up blog. I had been thinking that I wanted to create something different for my sons 5th Birthday Party Invitations and saw the idea of a criss cross folder or card on Georgina's blog and so I did a bit of research and found a tutorial on how to make one. These are sooooo quick and easy to make.

The second photo illustrates how the insert with all the party details slot in and out. You can add anything really, layer different papers, tags etc the list goes on and on but because I had to make 20 I wanted to keep them simple but effective. So there you have it personalised invitations that were fairly cheap quick and easy, why would you buy pre-made ones at the shops when you can theme your own. Oh by the way the paper range I used was Zoom by Crate Paper.

Well I'd better go as I can hear dinner bubbling away and must finish it off, Spaghetti Bolognaise tonight quick and easy and the kids always love it. Bye Anna

Wishes......

2007-09-09T10:55:00.000+10:00

Last night as I was going through my box of scrap papers to make a card I came across this PP from Basic Grey called fruitcake. I just love this paper, it is very Christmassy but you can use it for almost any theme. I ended up calling this card wish as I was trying to use up some left over letters I had and had to use a word which combined those leftovers so I chose wish. I guess it could be used either way for Christmas, or a Birthday card, I mean we all make wishes for both of those right. Well I think I definitely have the stitching bug now you could say. I drew a flourish on this card, I firstly pierced the cardstock with my paper piercer into a pattern, I just did this freehand, but I believe there are templates you can purchase for this, if you are not confident to freehand it. I guess you could also trace around a flower or shape also. I then picked embroidery thread colour to suit and stitched. I think this stitch is called a back stitch. It is very simple and looks so divine. Added some mulberry flowers, silk flower, felt, metal embelishments and bling and voila there you have it!!!!

Speaking of wishes, I just have to link to this blog, I am sure Carole won't mind but take a look at this. Check the second post down dated Thursday Sept 6th. How uttlerly delicious is this house. This has all been created using patterened paper, although I think the actual House is a template as I have seen those around but then the way you decorate it is up to you, not totally sure about this however. I just had to share it because I think it is just so stunning and I am sure would have taken lots of hours of patiently cutting. Everything Carole creates is just beautiful but this house just had me wowing for ages. Imagine having a house that looked like this, you would never want to leave, its like a fairytale!!!

Well today I am busily creating my sons 5th birthday party invitations, I am doing something a little different to what I normally do, but I will post that tomorrow, so you will have to check back for that one, sorry about the suspense but they are still a work in progress.

Happy Sunday to all and get out into that warm sunshine if you have it where you are living. Anna

Have you recieved my September Newsletter.......

2007-09-06T21:49:00.000+10:00

If you haven't received my Newsletter and would like to, send me an email with Newsletter in the subject line and I will email you a copy ASAP.

Here as promised is the layout I completed at the craft class I did on Saturday, I changed a couple of bits around from the original but my photo was going the other way so I had to do this to make it fit. Very happy with the result in fact my eldest daughter said tonight, its the best layout you have ever done Mum, the flowers almost look real. So there you have it someone else designs the page and my daughter loves it. No really credit to Ari from The Scrapbook Scene here in Melbourne, you are very talented and hopefully you will start your own blog someday soon, as I said to her it was super easy here in blogland.

Now I know the photo isn't super fab, but its late and photos are never good at night but I think you get the drift. Lots of stitching, new stitching techniques for me. I love doing french knots, once you get the hang of those they are so quick and easy to do and look so effective, they are on the butterfly. Love the felt and beads. In my Newsletter I refer to inexpensive layouts, this is what I mean, all the product on this page are fairly cheap to purchase and look how great the page looks. By the way the letters are chipboard and have been embossed with opals, they are very easy also, need to get myself a jar or two of that stuff very nice indeed.

Now onto other nice purchases look at what I treated myself to just the other day. Shhhh, don't tell my husband!!. This Kit is just divine and when I saw it I just knew I had to buy one. Well buy one I did and cannot wait to get it so I can play. This kit just has all my favourite colour combinations and the products look scrumptious to boot, it will be fun to create with it. Head on over to Sissey and take a look at all the wonderful kits and creations in the gallery.

Okay well I think I am up to date on all that's been happening around here. So good night, and sleep tight. Anna

Kids Holiday Classes, get your diary out...

2007-09-05T16:26:00.001+10:00

Just a quick note today to let you know of some upcoming classes.

As the school holidays are fast approaching I have set aside a couple of dates in the two week break for kids classes. I thought I would post them here so you can pencil them in with your holiday plans. The dates and times are as following. First Week of Holidays Beginner Level - Create a Mini Scrapbook Album (ages 7 up) Tuesday 25th September 1.00pm- 4.00pm, Thursday 4th October 10am - 1pm. Creative Kids Card Making (ages 7 up) Monday 1st October 10.00am - 12pm. For more information and details email me on the link in the sidebar. Classes will be lots of fun and filled with creativity, and there will be light refreshments provided also. Classes will be small so places are limited. I will have a couple of sneak peaks of what we will be creating next week. Will be back with more tomorrow. Anna

Catching up on things around here ......

2007-09-03T21:45:00.000+10:00

Where has the month gone, its already September and I am starting to hear about Christmassy things already somebody slow the clocks down............ is that possible!!

Sorry to my blog readers I haven't been blogging as much as normal lately although more than some others LOL!. It has been a busy week. I will start with the Weekend. On Saturday afternoon I finally took the time to book myself into a scrapbooking class, it was nice to be the student rather than the teacher for a change. The class was at my local scrapbooking store, The Scrapbook Scene. The page was created by Ari one of the lovely teachers who teaches at the store. Thanks Ari it was a great class with lots of laughs (although not finished yet). The page had lots of hand sewing, different stitches and new techniques and some new tips which is why I attend these classes in the first place. Its good to get other peoples ideas and the way they do things. There is always something to learn. I will upload the page later in the week as I have a bit more to finish on it. I have some more stitching and journaling to complete.

Then yesterday was Father's Day here in Australia. Happy Father's Day to all and I hope all the Dads enjoyed time with their loved ones and being the focus of the day. We spent our day outdoors having a BBQ in the park with family. It was a beautiful sunny day and it was nice to be amongst nature and relaxing and watching all the kids entertain themselves in the outdoors rather than on something electronic. My hubby got spoiled with lots of pressies, one very lucky person.

This morning our school held a Father's Day Breakfast for the Dads and Kids. So it was a very early start for me, I was at the school at 6.45am. However it was a nice morning and evidently the Dad's enjoyed it as there were comments that this should be a weekly occurence. Somehow I don't think so! I did hear however via the grapevine that some of the dads are planning to outdo our breakfast and have one for the mums on Mother's Day next year. I do think the novelty will fizzle out by well next week and it will all be forgotten. We'll just have to wait and see.

Onto creative stuff, you didn't think I would post without some show& tell did you? Here is a layout of my two beautiful girls I finished probably a couple of months ago now. I hadn't uploaded it here yet as I submitted it into a magazine, however I didn't hear anything back so I assume by now being 2 months later that I can upload it as it wasn't selected. This was the first time I used the scalloped edge cardstock and I love it. I am really happy with this layout its a bit different from my usual style and there is a heartfelt message to my daughters, which I am sure they will appreciate someday. Love the choc brown and blue combination and I usually use that on the boy pages so its nice to use it on a girly layout.

That's about all from me I am ready to call it a day. By the way a quick mention new September Newsletter coming out soon. There will be a couple of kids classes in there for holidays as I have been asked so many times about holding them, so places are limited as I won't do big groups with kids. Ages are 7 upwards. If you are interested book in ASAP. Have a nice week. Anna.

Father's Day Card

2007-08-30T09:15:00.001+10:00

Father's Day is just around the corner and so I thought I'd better get started on making some cards. Here is a card I made using the Patterened Paper from Stampin' Ups sentimental Journey. I covered a chipboard square button shape from deluxe designs Plain Janes with the paper and then mounted the paper at different angles underneath. I then added a Fathers Day sentiment. Finished off with Chocolated Grossgrain Ribbon. Cardstock is Buckaroo Blue & Sahara Sand. A very masculine Card and very easy to make. Just a quick post as I have lots to get done today, I hope I have inspired you to get onto those Father's Day Cards as a handmade personalised effort is always nicer than a purchased one. Have a great day. Anna

Still Here!!! (Just)

2007-08-27T14:08:00.000+10:00

I have had a busy couple of weeks and am just keeping my head above water but doing everything at lightning speed and not seem to be getting very far. What is it they say 'slow and steady wins the race!' Well I guess I need to slow down and I might get more acheived. I think I just have over commited to several things at the moment all of which I want to achieve, but of course a mum of 3 kids well that's enough of ones plate already. In any case onto crafty news.

On the weekend I had a workshop at my sister-in-law Meri' s house and it was a fabulous afternoon, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and what they created. As the hostess Meri had mentioned to me there would be a few kids at the workshop, I thought it would be nice for them all to make a cute little Father's Day treat, to give to their dads for this coming Sunday. Now I know these are called sour cream containers on SCS and some other blogs, but to me I call them sunny boy containers, maybe you have to live in Australia to know what I mean by that. We stamped with the roller stamper 'star studded' and then folded and filled with caramels and made a little tag tied on with ribbon. I have just purchased Label Classic with all the different frames in it and I know this will become quite a favourite. The containers were quick and easy to make and I think the kids really enjoyed creating them with some help from their mums and myself. Hopefully they will make it back to their Dads in their entirety and not sneakily eaten over the next few days as my kids tend to do. These are great for kiddie lolly bags or bonbonierre. They can be matched and themed with your invites also.

We also made a couple of cards, one I have already uploaded in other posts so I will only upload this one which is the cake from Pretty Princess. I demonstrated how to colour images in using blender pens, markers, crayons and pastels as well as the ink pads. Lots of fun I am really loving those blender pens at the moment, it is so relaxing colouring the stamps in. It kind of just slows you down. Sorry about the blurry photo, but you get the idea. Well that's all from me at the moment but I will be back later in the week with more to showcase. Enjoy the rest of this beautiful warm and sunny Melbourne day. Later. Anna.

Five fabulous cards and a great night in ......

2007-08-22T09:43:00.001+10:00

Well here it is if you missed the chance to come along to my card making class, these are the 5 cards we made last night.

Close ups of the 5 cards

It was a great night and all the ladies were very impressed with their cards and what they created. The cards all had a mixture of techniques on them and so everyone went home with a few new techniques under their belt and I think you can never have enough new techniques to keep the creative flame alight. Also a big thank you to the regulars who keep attending my classes and supporting my teaching and class projects I really do appreciate it.

Some of the techniques used were Watercolour Crayons and blender pens and Pastels, we mounted paper on chipboard tags using modge podge, stamping, we inked edges for effect, we made a gift card holder, we used lots of ribbon to embellish our pages, there are so many things to incorporate but it can't all be put into one class. So I will do a follow up class to this using other techniques. I will be sending a new Newsletter out in September, but classes will now only be held during the day or on weekends, rather than evenings. If you have a special request and would like me to come and teach a class at your house with a set fee for what we create then I am happy to do so, just contact me.

That's all from me today another busy day ahead catching up around here. No more teaching until Saturday, so I have a chance to take a breather and catch up on the housey stuff that just never goes away. Have a great day everyone. Anna

Workshop Galore

2007-08-20T16:27:00.000+10:00

Well this past weekend I had a workshop. This workshop was my biggest yet with 14 participants, divided into 2 rooms and doing scrapbooking layouts. It was quite a challenge but lots of fun although by the end of the night I was ready to head home and have the longest sleep.

For this workshop I asked participants to bring a black and white photo and I did two layouts a female and male version, here is the male version. I will upload the female one at another time as I left it with my hostess so that she could finish her layout as she didn't get a chance to do it during the evening.

This layout uses SU paper, stamps from Office Accroutement, Headline Alphabet and Warm Words and the Star Studded roller stamp. I used the star chipboard to trace around, and the little tags from the Kraft Paper sheet. I must say it was a challenge only using SU items as I love to combine lots of different items from my stash, and embellishments but it turned out really good and I am very pleased with the final result.

On another note tomorrow night I am holding a Card Making class I still have places left, class is from 7pm - 9pm, so if you are free come along cost is $22 and you will complete 5 different cards, one being for Father's Day. For more details email pontikis@netspace.net.au.

That's all from me tonight as I need to get dinner finished. Have a great night. Anna

A beautiful sunny day today

2007-08-15T13:36:00.000+10:00

It is such a mild sunny today in Melbourne and I felt in the mood to use up some scraps and make a card to share to use the blissful weather as inspiration and all the glorious outdoor colours. The Greens and Pinks and Blue Sky, so my little piece of a perfect day in nature on a card. I have used ribbon in a different way here from how I normally do its a good way to use up those little ribbon scraps. Once again sorry about the blurry photo I think I have decided that I am taking the photo too close to the card because the background is in perfect focus. I try to take it up close to get the details on the photo for you to see but I don't think it works that way, must take a digi camera course I think, just to learn a few tricks. Anyway in light of the sunny day there is always a washing machine load to hang out and house work to do. Have a happy day and go make a card with some of those scraps, its amazing what you can create with bits and pieces. Anna

Nothing Like 'Divine Intervention' to slow you down ...

2007-08-13T11:24:00.000+10:00

Or just plain careless?? Long personal post ahead, skip this long paragraph if you just want to know about the crafty stuff.

Well as you know I had a jam packed week last week with workshops, classes, 5 birthday parties on the weekend alone and then school trivia night on saturday night. Well good ol murphy's law kicked in and on Friday morning just after getting out of the car I tripped over on the broken concrete on the sidewalk and landed straight on my kneecap. Did I see stars I can tell you I haven't felt pain like that since childbirth, sorry I know (too much info), but really I mean, it hurt. Anyway after scraping myself off the concrete and looking around, no one had seen me thank goodness, don't want a wounded ego as well as a wounded leg. So as the pain subsides somewhat and my postive thinking takes over you have to keep going, come on it will be fine, I just kept walking on my poor knee, went shopping, took my son to gym etc etc, meanwhile my knee and leg were swelling, until about 12pm when the pain finally became so bad I called my husband at work to come home as at this stage any position was agonising and I couldn't move. My own fault of course because I didn't ice it and didn't elevate, nor did I stop and rest, super mom mentality, wasn't going to save me now. Anyway my wonderful hubby came home and asessed the situation iced it and help me to elivate it on the couch and dosed me up with panadol, took care of my 4yr old and organised for the girls to be picked up in the afternoon. Slowly but surely it began to heal ever since throughout the weekend. Still a bit sore today and I am still slighty limping, but nothing broken just my poor little knee and the muscles around it have all been strained. Lesson learned, slow down mentally and physically. Mind you I got to all the parties and things but just sat most of the time. Its nice to be able to get from a-b without hobbling today. Mind you my eldest daughters comment on Friday afternoon when her grandparents picked her up from school as I couldn't walk let alone drive, why didn't you pick me up, it was so embarrasing. Like hello I couldn't walk. Don't you love kids always there to make a bad situation feel worse.

Now sorry about the long personal post but here is some crafty stuff. In all honesty haven't done much all weekend except birthday cards but here is a card I make last week. Next Tuesday night 21st of August, 7pm-9pm, I have a card making class. This is one of the cards we will be making different patterened background paper as I may not have enough of this one, but a couple of easy ones like this and then some more detailed ones. Will post throughout the week. I still have places left so if you would like some cardmaking inspiration then come along. One of the cards will be a fathers day one, so its great to get that made nice and early, so If you feel like a night out and getting crafty, then email me and I will give you full details. You will go home with 5 completed cards. So come along and give it a go you will be surprised at how enjoyable and relaxing card making is, if you don't already know that of course. I would to teach you all the great techniques. Okay that's it from me today, more stuff to come throughout the week. Bye Anna

Lots of Teaching and Creating .....

2007-08-08T10:09:00.001+10:00

So far this has been and will continue to be a really busy week, with lots of birthdays and teaching, the teaching part is done, but the birthdays are yet to come with 5 on the weekend. What is it with these kids and their social lives, ours is virutally non existant, or should I say ours consists of their birthday parties.!! LOL.

Before I go on I Must send (((big, big, big birthday kisses and hugs)))) to my adorable little niece Michaella who is turning 5 today. Happy Birthday from all of us!! Michaella is second in the photo next to my son Michael.

Last night I had my Funky Felt Fever class. All the girls did a great job and sorry I forgot to get a photo of all the layouts, that may have been because a couple of the girls came late and they all finished at different times. Must remember next time, anyway they all did a fabulous job on their pages despite all the sewing and trying to thread those needles at the end of the day can be quite a challenge. Great job girls and thanks for coming along. Sample is on the last post of what they got to create.

On the weekend I had a Stampin Up workshop. These are the two cards we made. The first is using the new scribble Jumbo wheel from the mini catalogue, with Happy Birthday from Pretty Princess set and Patterened Papers from SU.

The second is using the Dazzling Diamonds and Heat & Stick Powder. Really love that stuff it is so effective and can just dress up a card quite simply. Photo isn't all that great sorry but at least you can see the glitter on the stamped image at the front. Stamp is from SU Mostly Flowers. This set is just fabulous with 4 different square floral designs and a bargain at $23.95. Also used stamps from Be Happy. Well that's all from me must run as I have several b'day pressies to purchase today. Happy Hump Day!! Anna

Would you like to get that FELT FEVER!!!!!

2007-08-05T09:24:00.000+10:00

that's going around??????

Well here's your chance, this coming Tuesday night I have a two hour class at my house. I have 2 places left so if you would like to make this layout, this is what we will be doing. There is cutting and sewing felt to make this gorgeous flower, there lots of ribbon and the layout is in the pink, white and black theme. Email me if you are interested and I will give you the remaining details. Everything is supplied in the class for you, just bring yourself, a black and white girl theme photo and your basic kit, ie cutter, knife, scissors, cutting mat. I do have some extras on hand if you don't have all these tools. If you can't make the class but would like to have a go at this layout I can put the supplies together and send them to you, and you can have a go at it at home. Email me for more details.

Have a great Sunday all, I have more to post but it will have to wait as the kids are running around with the music up loud. No quiet and peaceful sunday morning here!!! LOL! Catch you all later. Anna

PS: Brand New Newsletter being emailed out tonight!!

A Hostess Thank You

2007-08-01T20:40:00.000+10:00

It is the begining of August and with it the Spring Mini is now on line for viewing here, so if you haven't got a copy you can take a look and, if you would like to recieve one in the mail send me your email.

Stampin' Up's new promotion from 1st August through to 15th September is to celebrate and reward the hostesses, for the effort that they go to in hosting a demonstration. So if you have been toying with the idea of holding a demonstration now is the time.

The benefits include an additional free stamp set, to the already fantastic benefits a hostess recieves. Your workshop must meet a minimum of $600 to be eligible for this benefit. You get to choose from 3 sets, Petal Prints, Nice & Easy Notes and All about U, these are valued at $53.95. So don't miss out I have a heavily booked out month for August with workshops already so get in quick for late August, early September as I have a couple of dates available.

This is a great time to be a part of Stampin' Up and take part in their promotions. I have lots of giveaways in my workshops which are exclusive to me and benefit both for the hostesses and workshop attendees. Email me if you would like further information. Have a great night. Anna

Two More Sleeps ......

2007-07-30T19:13:00.000+10:00

On Wednesday is the official start of the brand new spring Mini from SU, which means that anyone can place an order. If you would like to have a copy of the catalogue I have plenty sitting here waiting for new owners. Send me an email with your address and I will happily send you a catalogue.

Here is a quick card I made. The baby stamp is from the Heidi Swapp clear stamp collection and I used SU adorable stamp. Just thought I would play around with different ways of placing things on a card rather than the usual way I do them. Not sure what is going on with my camera as the photos don't seem to be focusing properly. My son dropped the camera with the lens opened a while back and even though my husband readjusted the lens the camera hasn't been the same since. It is definitely time for an update but I'll have to save for that one and add it to the long list of other items I am saving for.

Anyway, I can hear kids calling so I must go. I have to decided to send a brand new newsletter for August, including the exsisting classes as there have been a couple of changes and add ons. So if you would like to be updated with all the classes I am holding once again send me an email. That Newsletter should be out towards the end of the week. Have a great night all. Anna

A Birthday Card

2007-07-28T16:45:00.000+10:00

Its saturday afternoon and I have had a fairly relaxing day. Still recovering from this cold which seems to go from nose to throat to head, there is pain somewhere different each day, I wish it would just finish alltogether. I have a really busy month starting from next week with workshops and classes so am hoping to be fully recovered and raring to go, lots of teaching coming up and am looking forward to it.

Here is card I made the other night, sorry about the blurry photo but I took it in a hurry as it was going to my daughter's friend for her birthday on Friday, so I didn't have time to stop and make the photo perfect, anyway you get the idea of it. Lots of patterened paper and cutting out and Happy Birthday Stamp is from Pretty Princess set, I love the font of this Happy Birthday, its very cute and girly.

Hope you are having a nice and relaxing weekend. Will post next week!!!

Anna

Attracting the Life you want to live......

2007-07-25T20:01:00.000+10:00

Its been an interesting week, albeit struggling with a head cold, thanks to my lovely children who always seem to get it first and then pass it on, nothing like family love, share and share alike. So I haven't been feeling all that motivated or really well enough to create. This afternoon however as I was starting to feel a little better I thought it would be nice to post since I haven't all week and of course show another card. So there you have it this card is for no one in particular but its there and ready for when I need a card for any occasion really. I covered both the chipboard shapes in different patterned papers, trying to use up all those scraps and don't you just luuurve the bling. A fairly quick and easy card to make and I have left it general so really I can always add a stamp with a salutation like Happy Birthday, or Thanks for whatever occasion may come along.

Onto other exciting things, yesterday morning I attended a 'Mums in Business' Seminar with my sister-in-law Meri (who by the way has a very yummy Choc Caramel Slice Recipe on her blog at the moment). The topic of the Seminar was the law of attraction, the secret to creating results. Now I have watched the Movie The Secret at least 4 times but I guess it never quite sinks in untill you attend a live event where the presenter poses questions that make you really challenge your thinking. It was quite informative and motivating, certainly brings to light the idea that you really need to make sure you have a focus for where you are heading, in all life areas, relationship, family, career, personal development etc etc. So all that hype about writing down your goals, or what outcomes you want to achieve is really important. Something I have overlooked up until now thinking I will do it later, having all the excuses in the book for not doing it but I understand now that it needs to be done asap. One of the other messages that came through was really cutting through the barriers of self doubt. This one is a real biggie for me, the negative chatter that seems to always be there. That negative all too familiar inner voice really needs to be challenged and you need to monitor your thoughts and not just let them run wild to create the self doubt and guilt in the first place. So anyway I have had all this knowledge for a while I guess its what you do with that knowledge that matters. Its all great to be armed with strategies but then you have to make the commitment to do all the inner work and put it into place. So I guess this ended up being a motivational post in the end and I hope it has motivated you in some way. Just to finish on the motivational note here is a quote I read the other day, 'The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live.' What doors are you opening and closing????? Night Anna

FUNKY FELT FEVER SNEAK PEAK !!

2007-07-22T20:52:00.000+10:00

Well here we are at the end of another weekend and it has been a busy one. Today I attended the Furniture Trade show in the city which took most of the day. It was great to see all the beautiful furniture and some other home wares all in one place.

This is the reason for not getting my sneak peak out earlier for my felt class. I am still putting the layout together as there are bits I have ordered that haven't arrived, so I can't show a finished sample at this stage, however I am showing a little tid bit of what we will be creating on this layout. There is also some hand sewing here but its not too much. I am not by an means a great sewer I can just do the basics so if I can do it anyone can, so don't be put off by the sewing part of it. As you can see my stitches are not perfect but I like it that way. I decided to theme the layout in the colours of black, pink and white since we will be doing a black and white photo for this page. The papers featured under the felt are some of the papers we will be using, so if would like to create a layout in these colours using felt, then send me an email and I will give you my class details. If you can't attend a class I am happy to send you all the items to create the layout at home, with some simple instructions. Email me for more details.

That's it from me today, I am keeping it short as I have lots of my list of things to complete and its already past 9pm. So have a great night and I will be back with more during the week. Happy Creating! Anna

Mini Catalogue has arrived!!!!!

2007-07-20T13:42:00.000+10:00

I know I haven't posted for nearly a week but I have been around just busy, busy, busy. I have just released my new Newsletter and the brand New SPRING MINI has arrived, Yippee!!

In the photo to the right are the supplies I used to make the card. I used the watercolour wonder crayons which just arrived today to colour in the roller stamp called Scribble in the new mini. I used the blender pens and water to do this I also used the ink pad to colour the flowers a lighter shade of the Cranberry Crisp.

I love the whole doodling craze at the moment so I just love this roller and I think you could even use this for a Christmas theme. I have used the colour ink pad Cranberry Crisp and really the card needed some ribbon but I didn't have any to match these colours used, however there is a fabulous Stitched Grossgrain ribbon in the Cranberry Crisp in the new Spring Mini, that will be on my next order so that I can complete this card and many others. The mini has some great new sets so if you are interested you know what to do. I can have it sent to you within a couple of days.

By the way Crayon special ends this month, so hurry and don't miss out, if you want the details refer to a couple of posts back. It took me 15 mins to make this card so don't think that you have to be colouring in your images forever it is quick and easy and adds another dimension to your creative abilities. If you would like to see this card demostrated at a workshop you can book in with me I am happy to come along, so just get a few friends together and I'll bring everything to make it a fun and crafty evening.

Sorry this post is a bit all over the place but I have to be somewhere in 5 mins so I had to be quick and sometimes I think much quicker than I type and so the thoughts aren't consecutive. Anyway check back on the weekend I will have a sneak peak of my Funky Felt Fever class, a few places left as this class has been popular. Have to go Bye Anna

HAVE YOU READ IT YET ???

2007-07-16T21:31:00.000+10:00

I have finally managed to get my Newsletter together and it was sent into everyones inboxes last night, just in time for the beginning of Term 3. If you haven't recieved yours yet just send me an email with your address and I will glady send it to you. I have a couple of new classes in there so come along and learn some new techniques. The card pictured below is the type of thing we will be making in my Creative Card Making class, so if you like this card why not book in and give it a go, you will go home with 5 different card designs, how fabulous is that, its always great to have cards on hand for all those events that pop up. How impressed will the card recipients be with a personal handmade card like this???

Onto other exciting things I have a huge batch of Mini Catalogues in my house which were delivered today, just waiting for a new home. If you would like a copy send me your email address and I will pop one in the mail for you and the best thing is its FREE! All you have to do is find the link in the side bar and send me an email with your address and I will do the rest how easy is that. It is so much easier to browse through the catalogue when it is in front of you rather than on a computer screen and its a great excuse to sit down with a cuppa and take break whilst you browse. Catalogue sales begin in August. Well that's all the news for today. Have a great night. Anna

Pretty Princess!!!!

2007-07-15T12:03:00.000+10:00

Can you tell that I just love the Stampin' Up set Pretty Princess, it is such a cute set, I wish I had it when my girls were smaller as I could have used it for invitations and lolly bags etc. I can still use it for cards however as my 4 yr old son still gets invited to his kinder girl friends parties and, we also have a couple of younger girl cousins.

In the previous post the cake on the card is also from the PP set, which you could use for any age. I actually gave the cake card to a friend of mine who is an adult for her birthday, and added the flowers on top of the cake instead of candles which I think made it more adult suited.

I used sparkle and adorable from the warm words set. I used a combination of ink pad and markers to ink this stamp and also used white signo marker from stampin up to highlight areas on the dress, crown and wand. Of course the little mini primas to give dimension and a finishing touch. If you would like to learn how to make this card and many others I will be sending out a newsletter tomorrow, with some brand new classes. Send me your email address in the comments section and I am happy to email you a newsletter, or alternatively just send me an email. Lots to do today so I must get on with it. Will have more tomorrow so check back. Anna

2007-07-10T21:46:00.001+10:00

Cardvaarks 10 Day - 10k - 6 Shooter

Here is my latest entry for day 6 of the Caardvarks challenge. The challenge is to make a card 6"X 6" in size. Funnily enough I made a card of this size this morning so, I was all set to go, without even knowing it.

I have used my brand new Stampin' Up set here which I just loooooove!!!! The set is called Pretty Princess, and if you have a little girl you just have to purchase this set, great for invitations and all her little friends birthday party gift cards, lolly bags, etc etc.... the list goes on.

I used the Heat and Stick Powder with the Dazzling Diamonds for the Cake and I just think it turned out really beautifully. I used the Stampin' Up markers to colour in the different layers of the cake. The Happy Birthday is also from that set, as well as a cute princess, a wand, a flower and a crown. Great Value for only $45.95 + postage. To be honest when I first flicked through the new catalogue for the first time this is the set that jumped out at me that I had to have, can you tell I love girly stuff.

Well it has been quite a long day and spending whole days with 3 kids gets tiring, so I'm off to read my book in bed one of my all time winding down favourites. Good Night Anna.

2007-07-09T20:22:00.000+10:00

Caardvarks 10 day - 10K - 5 Star

For some reason blogger is not allowing me to place a title in the usual spot for it so I have created it here. Yes I know I have posted twice in one day oh well here is the reason why.

This is my entry for the latest Caardvarks Challenge to celebrate their 10,000 hits they are having a 10 day challenge with a new challenge each day. So this is my entry for day 5 and it is to use 5 embellishments on your page. I haven't entered any other of their challenges this is the first. I wasn't sure about whether it had to be 5 different types of embelishments and whether if you had multiples of the one type whether that counted so anyhow my entry has more than 5 just to be sure. The photo of my card isn't that flash as I had to take it at night, I think I really need some digital camera settings lessons, not sure if that will help my photo taking quality. Another thing on the to do list.

If you have time why not consider entering a card yourself. You have until midnight Monday Night, don't think that's Aussie time though, so get to it.....

Happy Card Making. Anna.

2007-07-09T08:56:00.001+10:00

Holiday Cards......

As promised here are a couple of the cards I created whilst I was away. There wasn't all that much time to sit and do it and of course I didn't bring everything in my stash, but I still had plenty to have made 100 cards if I had wanted to.

I seem to read on other blogs that making masculine cards is challenging, I think the opposite because there are so many different papers to use these days and stamps that it is easier than it was a few years back when the stamps were not all that trendy and more older and antique style. Keeping it simple is often the key. It really isn't that bad and some of the female type papers or embellishments can be included after all, guys wear pink shirts these days. I think we are overwhelmed by how much girly supplies there are that in comparison there isn't that much for the boys. Maybe incorporating the two is the key.

This first card is mostly using all Stampin' Up Products, except for the card background which is bazzil. So I used patterned paper from the Spring Showers Set in the Stampin' Up Catalogue which retails at $16.95. This paper is quite thick and double sided so there is a different design on each side and for that price you get 12 sheets alltogether, which is a pretty great deal, considering some patterened papers retail from $1.50 - $3.00 each sheet for the thicker double sided ones. I also used certainly celery for behind the patterened paper and also for my tag behind enjoy. I promised a few weeks back that I would make a male type card using the Be Happy Stamp set. Well here it is! Althougth a bit late.

This is such a great set, especially for a beginner to stamping as you can make both male and female cards and really for a large age range. I stamped the dotty tag stamp and then cut around it inked it in chocolate chip, I stamped the Enjoy stamp on whisper white and cut around it and then mounted one on the other. I then finished off with some of the hemp twine also from SU. This is really great for the male cards, a good supply to have on hand, comes in black or natural, and is only $5.95 for 10.97 metres.

The next Card I made using some of my patterened paper scraps. I did fake stiching lines around the edge and then cut a flower out of one of the patterened paper scraps I had lying around, added a button to the middle and some embroidery thread to tye the knot. Then I stamped 'Birthday' from the Pretty Princess Set, such a another cute set. I will have more from that set in the next day or so I promise!!!!!. There you have a bright and beautiful card for any girl and it really wasnt that difficult.

I better be off this computer to start my day as I need to take these kids somewhere today, seems like it could be the movies perhaps. I will be back tomorrow with more cards, speak to you then. Have a great start to the second week of the holidays. Bye Anna

Rain, Rain and more Rain, But we still found gold...

2007-07-07T07:56:00.000+10:00

Well my family and I have just returned from a mini getaway. We went to Daylesford for a few days, which was lovely. Although it seemed to be the wet weather season as it rained 80% of the time we were there, however, it didn't stop us, we were armed with coats, umbrellas and lots of layers of clothing and a determination to see everything we had set out to see just through the rain and mud.

We saw all the beautiful and breathtaking sights of Daylesford their Mountains, and Springs, their Lavender Farm and Chocolate Mill and we also went over to Sovereign Hill - Ballarat for an afternoon, to see their version of Winter Wonderland. They had a long snow slide happening which well my son really loved, my eldest Danielle loved panning for gold and we did come home with a tiny little piece of it. We ran into a lady there which lives locally and takes her kids quite often as she has a yearly pass. Well she taught us all the tricks and techniques for panning for gold and even found us this tiny piece. I haven't taken a photo of it but I will do so and pop it on here. So thank you to her I didn't even catch her name but she made Danielle's day. Danielle wants to keep going back, don't you just love the entrepeneur in kids, the thought of stiking it rich!!! Melanie my second child loved the lolly pops we brought from the traditional lollypop shop and wanted to have a horse and caridge ride but we didn't get to that we ran out of time.

Do you just love the intense look of concentration here in this photo!!!. Bare in mind it was really, really cold and wet and your fingers just froze in that water and holding the metal pan, and then sifting through all the pebbles and stuff, that's determination for you, she outlasted us all looking for gold.

In this photo they had fake snow falling all around but unfortunately it didn't come up in the photo. It was actually quite magical, the fake snow they had music playing and a fire going further down the street and it was just getting dark, it really felt like you were back in the old days.

All in all it was a great few days and lovely to get away. Our accomodation was nice with a gas fireplace, two spas and a sauna and fully equiped kitchen, the kids spent lots of time playing together and I was able to just wind down and chill out I even bought some card making supplies up, well you know that has to go with me wherever I go. I managed to get about 3 cards done, I guess we were out and about so much, it didn't leave much time for that. I will upload the cards in another post as this one is getting too long.

It certainly was strange having no computer too switch on and read all the blogs, it made me realise that I spend a lot of time on here, which I need to keep track of and perhaps start using a timmer so I don't get so sidetracked on here. But by the same token it was nice to come home and catch up on everyones blog, read emails and see what's been happening for the week, its really like a community. Although Daylesford was lovely for a few days, it certainly seemed isolated compared to life here in Melbourne, so I am always glad to come back home.

Well have a great weekend everyone and I will endeavour to get back to my professional post soon with some cards and hopefully if time permits I will have a newsletter out in the next couple of days. Anna

Stampin' Up JULY Promotion - "Just Add Water"

2007-07-03T07:10:00.000+10:00

Here is another fabulous promotion from Stampin' Up. During July only, get a single colour-family pack of Watercolor Wonder Crayons or Watercolor Pencils for 25% off with any $50 purchase. You can check out the full details of the promotion Here. So if you have ever thought about investing in these wonderful products, now is the time to do so and take advantage of this offer. Here is a list of the qualifying products and their reduced price with the 25% off:

106695 - Bold Brights Watercolor Wonder Crayons - $29.21
106696 - Earth Elements Watercolor Wonder Crayons - $29.21
106698 - Rich Regals Watercolor Wonder Crayons - $29.21
106697 - Soft Subtles Watercolor Wonder Crayons - $29.21
106746 - Neutrals Watercolor Wonder Crayons - $14.21
101879 - Watercolor Pencils - $28.46

Contact me if you are interested in taking advantage of this promotion or alternatively having a workshop. I am happy to demonstrate how to best utilise these products in your workshop.

Have a great day. Thanks Anna

Motivational Scrapbooking

2007-07-01T13:17:00.000+10:00

I just came across a fabulous quote today which I think symbolises my Creative Journey and that of many others around me in this industry. The quote goes like this

"You will recognize your own path when you come upon it, because you will suddenly have all the energy and imagination you will ever need." - Jerry Gillies.

In quite of a few of my layouts especially when it isnt about a particular event I often write a motivational message for my children that comes straight from my heart and of course my 34 years of wisdom LOL. This quote is certainly one I would love to incorporate in a layout for myself.

I believe and always have that when you do something that you truly love that it fuels you and gives you that giddy energy like a child when they are excited about a special event. I know sometimes when I get recognition for things I create I get that feeling and it wipes out all the doubt about why I spend so much time creating cards and scrapbooking, even if for that moment.

There are many negative voices I often hear about what the point of scrapbooking is. My husband is one of those, he believes we need the photos to remember the memory not all the stuff around it as he puts it. Well as I have told him several times that its about the message that you can leave which is priceless and the heartfelt thought and emotion at the time, which may be able to reach your children when you cannot. Journaling your feelings and thoughts and communicating it in any way you can is just soooo important. Where am I going with this? well I guess I just needed to reinforce why I am doing this and reach out to those other scrappers out there who may have the same negative influence around their creating, to keep on at it and don't let the doubts creep in. You are creating something truly priceless to leave your children and it is something that can only be created by you for them, which makes it even more valuable until they can create it themselves.

To illustrate my point. Here is a layout I created of my gorgeous eldest daughter Danielle. She performed as a Ladybird in her school production a couple of years back. Now anyone who knows Danielle, knows that she is a full on Drama Queen actress I would'nt be surprised if she makes TV one day. In any case the journaling in this layout is about how proud we were of her performance and how that all the years of performing she has ahead will continue to build her confidence. I want her to remember that she was full of self esteem when she was up on that stage and to always believe in herself that she can acheive anything. This layout created the basis for this message, which she may look back on when she is an adult and perhaps facing a difficult time of self doubt like most of us do. That's what scrapbooking is all about really, yes we dress it up and make it pretty but journaling to me is the foundation of why I scrap. I hope that I have inspired and motivated you to either continue scrapping or start if you have been sitting on the fence about it. If you have read this long post, thanks. Happy Sunday Anna

Just a quick post

2007-06-28T23:50:00.000+10:00

You will notice the post before this has been added twice. Couldn't get blogger to publish my post last night so when I have tried it again this morning it has worked but twice, so just ignore on of the posts. Thanks Anna

Crop Circles Challenge - Caardvarks

2007-06-28T23:40:00.000+10:00

I thought I had missed this challenge as I have been side tracked my lots of other things, but when I popped on over to Caardvarks I noticed the challenge hadn't closed as yet. So I decided to whip up this card tonight for the Crop Circles Challenge at Caardvarks. The theme is using circles in any shape or form. Just thought I would mention the yellowy colour on the dotty paper is actually how the paper is, like an antiqued effect, it just looks like a mark I have noticed in the photo, just wanted to clarify.

Its great to try a new challenge and have some guidelines to work with, its like creative homework in a way, and it can get you out of those creative ruts that sometimes seem to come along.

Well its quite late and certainly past my usual bedtime. I hope I have left you with some inspiration to perhaps take on a challenge. You can find the link to Caardvarks in my side bar. Good Night Anna.

Crop Circles Challenge - Caardvarks

2007-06-28T23:11:00.000+10:00

Thought I had missed this challenge as I have been side tracked with other stuff, but when I headed over to see what was happening at Caardvarks as I do my usual evening blog surf, I realised the Crop Circles challenge hadn't ended yet. So I quickly whipped up a card tonight using the circle theme and decided to enter. Just thought to add the yellowy colour on the spotted paper is actually like that, it is sort of antiqued, but looking at it on the screen it looks like a mark, so just thought I would clarify.

It is great entering even just for fun and to try a different theme and challenge is good, it makes you get out of your creative rut to have guidelines sometimes, kind of like creative homework. I certainly recommend it, so go on!! head on over to Caardvarks and take the challenge. You will find the link to the blog in my sidebar.

Not much else to tell as it is very late for me I am usually asleep by now, so my brain has slowed right down. Last day of school for the kiddies tomorrow, and then two weeks of kids holiday entertainment ahead. Good night all Anna.

For some reason this wouldn't post so I am giving it a go now.

Quick and Easy Card Making

2007-06-25T19:44:00.000+10:00

Well its the begining of another week and it is also the final week of school before school holidays begin again. This term seems to have just flown by. I have a fairly long to do list before the kids are home next week. But I wont put to much pressure on myself and just get done what I can.

Yesterday was my Scrapbooking and Card Making afternoon. It was a lovely and fun afternoon and very productive for some of the ladies who attended. A couple of the ladies who came along wanted to learn card making, so I agreed to do a mini lesson with 3 different cards just to teach them some ideas of how to put a card together and a couple of different layouts of a card front. These are the three cards I demonstrated.

First Card is using Stampin Up Cardstock and Patterned Paper from the Recollections Set. I firstly stamped the little rose pattern from Beyond the Basics set. I also used a Stamp from Warm Words - Adorable (can you tell I just love these words) and also a stamp from one of the Sellabration sets. I then tied a ribbon around the mounted stamped flower. This card was so simple and quick to make and it looks just great.

The second card I demonstrated was a masculine card using one of the hostess gift sets Riveting. I used the salutation Wishing you the best. I layered cardstock and Patterened Paper once again from the Recollections Stampin Up Set and also another Patterned Paper Brand of which I don't recall the name. I layered them in stripes and then added wishing you the best on dimensional tape. This card was also very simple to make.

The final card I demonstrated I have posted here before however heres a look for those who haven't seen it as it was a while back. Just a simple patchwork style card using two different patterened papers with some florals a button and ribbon. To me these cards are really quick and simple as I have done many and have making cards for years. If you like these cards and want to have a go at making them and lots of others contact me for some information about classes.

I am off to make more cards as I recieved my order from Stampin Up today so I am very excited to use my new stamps sets. Will have more to show in the next couple of days so check back. Have a great night. Anna

Scrapbooking and Card Making Afternoon On Sunday

2007-06-22T17:13:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone this is just a quick check in today. I will have some actual show and tell tomorrow. Just a little reminder that my ever popular Scrapbooking and Cardmaking Afternoon is on Sunday from 12.30 - 4.30pm. I still have a couple of available places. Great opporunity to get some projects underway including perhaps making a start on Christmas Cards or Teachers Handmade Pressies, no time like the present to get moving on those. The cost for the afternoon is only $10. You bring along your supplies and what you are working on.

There will be a nice afternoon tea to go with our creative afternoon, and if we are lucky my wonderful sister-in'law Meri might bake a us a batch of these and that is a reason just on its own to come along. All attendees get a little gift of crafty candy from me. You will have to come along to see just what it will be. So email me, my link is in the sidebar to the right. Hope to see you there. Have a wonderful Friday Evening. Thanks Anna

A New Card

2007-06-19T14:22:00.000+10:00

I couldn't think of any catchy name for today's post so a New Card will have to do. I have a bit of brain strain at the moment, lots to do and organise and it seems I just never catch up. There is always more than enough on my to do list and not enough time to just be. I am sure we are all in the same boat.

Its my darling friends birthday today, Happy Birthday Sophie. I'm not sure if she ever gets a chance to read this blog as she is a busy girl. Anyway last night I made this card for her.

The card has red cardstock, not sure who makes this one with some doodling and the layered basic grey paper on top. Some cute got flowers in the top left hand corner with ribbon tied around the top layer of patterened paper. Finished off with making memories rub ons saying Best Wishes.

If you love this card and would like to learn to make ones like this and similar now is a great time especially in the colder months when we are more housebound and so you don't feel guilty, sitting inside with a warm heater or fireplace and some craft goodies all around and creating. What could sound better!!! Maybe some chocolate and iced baileys with that perhaps!!!

If you would like to recieve my newsletter please email me at pontikis@netspace.net.au, to get my latest class schedule. Oh and if your thought process just told you 'I am not creative I couldn't do that" which by the way, I have heard a million times, stop that negative thought right in its tracks. Creativity comes in all forms whether we are styling our hair, baking a cake, arranging our house, so I am sure you do at least one of those things, well guess what you can make a card also. Its very simple and once you are shown your imagination will run wild with ideas and that creativity will be unstoppable.

I am off to knock some of those items off my to do list. Happy Creating Anna.

SCRAPBOOKING AND A NEW BLOG

2007-06-17T11:43:00.000+10:00

WELL I HAVE HAD A PRETTY BUSY WEEKEND SO FAR. MY DAUGHTER MELANIE HAD HER VERY FIRST BALLET CABARET YESTERDAY WHICH IS LIKE A MID YEAR PRACTICE OF PERFORMING FOR THE FINAL CONCERT AT THE END OF THE YEAR. SHE DID A FABULOUS JOB, LOOKED BEAUTIFUL AND I AM VERY PROUD OF HER. HERE IS A PHOTO OF HER WITH HER DANCING FRIENDS CROPPED OUT BECAUSE I DIDN'T ASK PERMISSION TO PUT IT ON MY BLOG SO THOUGHT I BETTER NOT USE IT.

WELL DON'T KNOW WHY I HAVE USED UPPER CASE BUT I WILL JUST LEAVE IT NOW TOO HARD TO CHANGE IT BACK TO LOWER SO BEAR WITH ME WHILST THIS POST IS IN UPPER CASE.

ONTO OTHER NEWS, I WOULD LIKE TO MENTION THAT MY LOVELY SISTER-IN-LAW MERI HAS BEGUN HER OWN BRAND NEW BLOG. YOU CAN VIEW IT HERE HEART LOVES AND OTHER STUFF. GO ON OVER AND TAKE A LOOK ITS ABOUT ALL SORT OF THINGS FROM SCRAPBOOKING TO BAKING WHICH IS HER ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE AND CARD MAKING AND ANYTHING ELSE THAT MIGHT TICKLE HER FANCY.

MERI IS ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE WHO IS TALENTED AT EVERYTHING SHE DOES AND DOES IT WELL. SHE IS ALSO A VERY KIND AND GENEROUS, GIVING PERSON ALWAYS READY TO HELP, REORGANISE YOUR HOUSE, GIVE ADVICE AND JUST LEND AN EAR. SO HEAD ON OVER AND SHOW HER SOME SUPPORT EVEN LEAVE A COMMENT IF YOU WISH, WE ALL LOVE GETTING FEEDBACK ON OUR CREATIVITY, AND BE SURE TO ADD HER TO YOUR FAVOURITE AS I AM SURE SHE WILL BE POSTING SOME BEAUTFUL STUFF AND MAYBE SOME OF HER PRIZED RECIPES IF WE ARE LUCKY, SHE CERTAINLY HAS A FEW.

NEXT WEEKEND I AM HOLDING MY SECOND SCRAPBOOKING/CARDMAKING AFTERNOON. THE DATE IS SUNDAY 24TH JUNE 12.30 - 4.30pm. THE LAST ONE WAS A GREAT SUCCESS AND EVERYONE ENJOYED HAVING A FEW HOURS UNINTERUPTED TO CREATE, I THOUGHT I WOULD DO IT AGAIN. THERE ARE A FEW PLACES LEFT SO FEEL FREE TO COME ALONG, CONTACT ME ON pontikis@netspace.net.au.

I HAVE BEEN SIDE TRACKED BY THESE ANNOUNCEMENTS THAT I FORGOT MY TITLE SAYS SCRAPBOOKING SO WITH THAT TITLE GOES A SCRAPBOOKING PAGE. HERE IS A PAGE I COMPLETED LAST YEAR. IT WAS DESIGNED TO BE AN INSPIRATIONAL PAGE FOR MY KIDS. I HAD JUST FINISHED READING A BOOK, I THINK IT WAS CALLED GIRLOSOPHY AND IT HAD GREAT QUOTES , SO INSPIRATIONAL AND EASY TO READ. ANYWAY I WANT MY KIDS TO GROW UP KNOWING THEY CAN ACHEIVE ANYTHING IF THEY ARE FOCUSED AND REALLY HAVE THE DESIRE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. SO I THOUGHT THIS PAGE COULD ILLUSTRATE SOME OF THOSE THOUGHTS. A VERY SIMPLE PAGE YET I LOVE IT. I HAVE USED THE BASIC GREY PAPERS AND STICK ON LETTERS AS WELL AS SOME PRINTED OUT WORDS. THE LITTLE METAL TAG SAYS ENJOY YOUR LIFE.

THIS IS ONE OF THE REASONS I LOVE SCRAPBOOKING IS BECAUSE YOU CAN PUT YOUR THOUGHTS DOWN AND YOUR CHILDREN CAN BENEFIT FROM THOSE THOUGHTS IN YEARS TO COME. DON'T WAIT TILL ITS TOO LATE TO TELL THEM ALL THE THINGS YOU WANT THEM TO KNOW TO HELP THEM ON THEIR WONDERFUL LIFE JOURNEY. THEY CAN READ IT FOR THEMSELVES PROBABLY AT A TIME WHEN THEY MOST NEED IT.

HAPPY SUNDAY ANNA

PINK CUPCAKES

2007-06-13T16:44:00.000+10:00

Today has been one of those stay at home days with the warm heater on when its cold and raining outside. I have had my eldest daughter home feeling a little sick with a sore tummy. She has been a bit lethargic most of the day, so to get her a bit motivated I suggested we make a batch of cupcakes. So here they are I know food is not really a subject I post about on this blog but I do like baking from time to time, especially for lunch box snacks. The icing colour was my daughters choice, usually I make them light pink but her choice was a darker pink. I think they look really cute and taste yummy too. The recipe is really easy its one of those quick mix ones where you throw all in the ingredients in together and voila you just can't get them wrong its easy peasy!!!!

On another note here is a really quick card I made yesterday morning. On this card I used the Be Happy stamp set from Stampin' Up. It is a very versatile set and you really can make lots of different types of cards with it. This set is great for scrapbooking pages as well. It has a tag stamp in it also with dots all over it and you can actually use a couple of the stamps from this set on boy cards or pages. Might try and upload a couple of examples in the next day or so using this set, so check back.

Have a great night everyone and keep warm. Thanks Anna

MY CARD FOR THE MIX IT CAARDVARKS CHALLENGE

2007-06-11T18:50:00.000+10:00

Here is a card which I made for the latest Caarvarks challenge. The challenge was to mix 3 different papers by 3 manufacturers. The three papers are from Basic Grey, Urban Lilly and the check pink paper didn't have a manufacturers name other than saying Francheville Check, so that might be it. I used all the papers in a patchwork assortment and then added layers of flowers and ribbon as well as the word happiness in the corner. This card was fun to make and I really adore using bright and colourful papers and mixing them up so I was in my creative element really. Its really fun to make a card with a certain criteria, it motivates you try different techniques that you may not have thought of. I thoroughly recommend giving it a go. The link to Cardvaarks is in my list of blogs to the right. Happy Creating Anna

JOURNAL YOUR LIFE - JOURNAL CLASS

2007-06-08T20:02:00.012+10:00

Here it is!!!!! As promised, a look at what we will create in the altered Journal Making Class. Journaling is soooooo important, all the self help gurus suggest it, in the words of Julia Cameron author of 'The Artist's Way' she calls journal writing 'morning pages'. She suggests we benefit from writing at least 3 pages per morning first thing or as close to it as you can. She believes we filter all the negativity out in our writing leaving us more focused and equiped to face the day and tap into our creativity. The book is an excellent read for all you artists out there, and we all know we are in some shape or form.

So if you have found it hard to commit to journal writing, perhaps putting this creative effort into making your own journal, will motivate you to write in it regularly. It is also a great way to display as a note book in your kitchen if you really don't think journal writing is your thing. This altered journal makes a fabulous girly gift for any age. All young girls love to write and doodle, and once you create this one and see how easy it is there is no limit to how many different ones you can create. The cost of this class is $25 all materials are supplied. Classes will be held Friday June 15th 7pm-9pm and Sunday 1st July 1pm-3pm. Email me for more details pontikis@netspace.net.au.

Well it is a long weekend and I don't have all that much planned except for creating, cleaning and relaxing. Happy Long Weekend Anna.