Sharden Shares

Back Scrapping again....

2011-07-04T03:33:00.000-07:00

Hi all, Well it's certainly been a long time.....but I am trying to revive my interest in scrapping. Not really trying, I have always had the interest, just not the time. Lots of things have happened over the last year or so and I have been really busy with my new Wedding Hire business. I have really missed my scrapping and I have been on a couple of retreats which have motivated me to getting started again. I am going to see if I can remember how to post a pic on here.....LOL If I do, then it will be one I did of Matthew. Fingers crossed!

Another Sketch!!!

2010-07-06T05:53:00.000-07:00

Seems I am addicted to these sketches at the moment, but that is good cause it means I am scrapping!! Here is sketch 111 @ Creative Scrappers. If you haven't visited this site you really must treat yourself...WOW! GReat photo of Matthew and Erin showing some family love!!

Creative Scrappers Sketch 109/110

2010-07-02T23:50:00.001-07:00

Here is my take on Creative Scrappers Sketches 109 and 110. SKetch 109 is my little neighbour Ella Beth, isn't she adorable, and sketch 110 is one of beautiful Miss Erin, my Granddaughter.

Very trying...

2010-06-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to scrap this photo of Erin for the past week and today I got fed up and just did it.....not overly happy with it as it is not what I started out to do, but it is finished!...and I journalled!!!!!
ANother trying thing.....I am sick of being on my own!! DH hurry up and get home.

Creative Scrappers sketch

2010-06-14T01:39:00.000-07:00

Just got home from my weekend away and found the latest sketch at Creative Scrappers.....wow loved it so much I had to scrap a layout straight away!!!! THis is my neice on her Wedding Day and the bouquet that I made for her.

A couple more to share......

2010-06-10T01:12:00.000-07:00

It's official......I have regained my urge to scrap!!! YAY
Here are a couple more that I have finished this week. The "New Scarf" is for the June challenge over at (123 Challenge Blog, it
s been so long since I blogged that I have forgotten how to link properly) and the other titled "Grand Daughter" is one I did just for fun.

I've been scrapping.....OMG!!!

2010-06-04T20:35:00.000-07:00

Does anyone remember me? LOL It has been just over nine months since I have scrapped a page.......LIFE what can I say! Went away for a weekend with friends and managed to complete 9 pages, so excited. I have a renewed energy and interest in scrapping again and thought maybe I should share with my cyber friends. Went to the beautiful Bunya Mountains which is only about an hour from my home and scrapped from Friday night to Sunday lunch. Such a wonderful place, I had forgotten how beautiful it really is up there. If you are in SE Qld, you really must check this place out and the facilities are super for scrapping weekends.

A little Share

2009-07-26T03:24:00.000-07:00

I've been AWOL for a while...keeping myself busy and not getting much scrapping done. I have now completed my time at Creative Scrappers and thoroughly enjoyed my two terms designing for Kristine. I love working with sketches and love the freedom of using whatever products I like. Thanks Kristine for the opportunity!! Here are my two last sketches.
Here are a few more of my silk flower arrangements as well.(LOL I was running out of photo's for my latest layout so I used my flower arrangements....now I have doubled up!!)
Oh and I got an email asking me to take part in an upcoming product challenge for Scrapbooking Memories, so I was a little chuffed about that and looking forward to see what I have to work with.

Lots of Stuff!!

2009-07-05T01:54:00.000-07:00

Hey there! Lots been happening here of late. I have just finished a weeks holiday and we went out to St.George to stay with friends for a few days.....I so love it out there, the peace and quiet is heavenly. I read a little, watched the boys mustering and had lots of cups of tea!! LOL We have also had DS Clintons 21st birthday party......my baby is all grown up. I have uploaded a pic of his cake - He loves the Canberra Raiders, so our very talented neighbour made him this jersey cake, how good is it????
I have also uploaded the latest pic of Matthew and Erin, they are growing so fast. I love how their eyes are the same colour but such a different shape - one like Mummy and one like Daddy!!!
The WHite with 1 criteria for this month is White with Purple and circles. I have used a baby pic of Erin at only 2 days old.
Sketch 58 at Creative Scrappers was another beauty this week and instead of using 3 photo's I used 1 panorama shot of our family (not the greatest of photo's but they are rare)
WHen I am not scrapping I also dabble in silk flower arrangements and I have had a few orders of late (very excited about this) and here is one I have completed.

One new and a few old........

2009-06-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a layout I completed for the cybercrop at Scrapbook Savvy. The challenge was to use white CS, something to do with measurement, transparency, "dead" or negative chipboard (something you wouldn't normally use) I scrapped my son's fiancee' engagement ring.
I have also been going back through some of my older albums and decided to share a few layouts that you may not have seen before. It's nice to go back and look through older layouts and I think it is something we don't do often enough.
HOpe you enjoy.

Sunday........

2009-06-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well another Sunday has arrived and I put together this layout this morning.....I really wanted to scrap something as it has been a few days since I felt like I had any inspiration at all. THis is very different for me but was really fun to do.
THis photo is my 3 sons girlfriends and Donald, a 70 yr old mentally retarded man who is our neighbour. He is always talking about the boys "DIRLFWIENDS" and he thought he was pretty special cause they wanted to have their photo taken with him.

The second layout is sketch 56 at Creative Scrappers THis is my DD Kimberley and her husband cutting their WEdding cake which was made by the same lady who had made my WEdding Cake 24 years earlier.

Today I scrapped.......

2009-06-08T04:27:00.000-07:00

I wanted to sleep all day, but it just didn't happen. I cooked a little and then did a bit more washing and then decided to get a little creative.
I really liked this weeks sketch over at Pencil Lines and found this photo in my stash of Erin when she was a little smaller. Not sure what she is doing with her hand but it looked funny and my title "Yeh Baby" just seemed to fit.

Had a great weekend and got to go to the Scrapbooking Expo in Brisbane on Saturday with two friends. Had a ball and spent way too much money, but Hey..it was worth it!
Was lucky enough to run into Hetty Hall at one of the displays and also the lovely Jody U from Scraplounge as well. It was a bit overwhelming trying to push your way through the crowd but we survived and can't wait to go back next year. I would have really liked to spend two days, one to shop and one to do a few classes, maybe next time.

June Challenges

2009-06-03T03:19:00.000-07:00

Here are my DT examples for June:-

The first one is "Building Blocks" which is for Scrap the Boys and the challenge was to use Red and Black and one other colour and to scrap about your boys and their fav toys!. Matthew loves his blocks and his fav thing at the moment is to build a "Gwarge" for his cars! LOL

The second one is "Imagine" which is for the White with 1 June Challenge. THe challenge was to use White with Red and include brackets. Another one of Matthew taken awhile ago now, but I love the look on his face. I like how this one turned out.....a bit whimsical and it was also finished very quickly. I used some red micro beads stuck onto a smear of pritt glue in a few places for something different.

The third one is sketch 54 at Creative Scrappers. This is my youngest sons' girlfriend, Morgan.

Another busy couple of weeks for me, and I am looking forward to going to Brisbane this Saturday to attend the Papercraft Expo. I have never been before so I am looking forward to meeting some cyber friends. I will be keeping a look out for familiar names and faces. HOpe to see you there! If you want to catch up let me know!

CHeers Sharon

Forgive me.....

2009-05-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

Forgive me Bloggers for I have sinned........it has been at least 3 weeks since my last blog entry! I can feel "dot" form coming on strongly:- Here goes....

* Oldest DS Michael and his fiancee are moving back to Murgon this weekend
* I have been working most Friday's for the last month...AAAAGGGHHH!!
* I have had Matthew and Erin quite a bit of late as Kimberley is busy setting up her new business.
* Spent a wonderful few days in Brisbane last weekend.
* Shopped some, drank some, laughed some and overall enjoyed time away with good friends.
* Managed to complete all my scapping assignments on time...PPHHEWW!
* MOstly been feel like crap so went to Doctor and had some blood tests done, now waiting for results. ie: arthritis, hormones and anything else they decide to check on LOL!
* Missed out on getting to the 5th round of Scrapstreet Star but had a ball trying. Congrats to the winner Jackie G.

Here are a few of my layouts completed in the last few weeks.
"FIshing" is my example for Sketch 50 at Creative Scrappers.
"Window to my World", "Behind every face" and "GIrls and their Pearls" were my entries in Scrapstreet Star.
"Together" is my example for the May Challenge at White with 1 , to use WHite with Olive and birdies.
"You have Grown" is my example for the May Challenge at Scrap the Boys , which was to use the words GROW OR TIME and to use some form of measurement ie: clocks, tape measures graphs etc:

Cheers all
Sharon

Hello again......

2009-04-19T03:24:00.000-07:00

What a busy couple of weeks it has been here. Family were all home for Easter, I went back to work, a few scrapping assignments, went to the coast to a digi camera training night for work......LIFE
Creative Scrappers are celebrating their first birthday and are holding celebrations over the next week or so with lots of challenges and prizes. My layout titled "Angel" is my example of sketch 48 and is now posted on the blog. Isn't Miss Erin just beautiful!!!!
THe second layout is a sketch that Kristine sent me to use as an example for one of the birthday challenges. Well it was certainly a challenge for me as it was to use no photo's at all.......I turned it into something I can frame. Lots of fun.
I am also involved in a competition over at Scrapstreet.com and I have made it to round 3 and now waiting to find out if I progress to round 4. There are really different challenges which are making me think outside the square. Can't post any of my layouts until the competition finishes, but I will share soon.

2010 Scrapbooking Cruise.........sound tempting!!!!

2009-04-11T03:36:00.000-07:00

THere is a scrapbooking cruise being organised for next year.......7 days cruising the south pacific, scrapping, classes, lazing around the pool, drinkies, more scrapping, experiencing lots of culture, even more scrapping, good food, more drinkies!! WHat more could a girl want?????? Go check out this site for more details www.leisurecraft.blogspot.com
I am definately going on this one.......want to join me?

I'm Back.....

2009-04-09T18:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last blog and there is so much to tell. Firstly I arrived home safely from my trip to Newcastle where I attended the Shop and Crop Scrapping Retreat.......WOW!! Had a wonderful time and finally got to meet some of the girls. Sasha and her staff organised a fantastic weekend and the DT classes where terrific. Many thanks to Kathie Link, Deb Godley, Jen Hall, Allison Shearer for their time. Also so nice to meet the lovely Evana W. To Zoe, Rebecca, Julie, Ali, Amy and Rita, it was so good to share a table with you gals....I had a ball!!!
I managed to complete a few layouts of my own as well as the class ones. I must say the 2009 mini albums were all gorgeous.......I just so do not do OTP stuff, so I didn't even try!!! REally hoping I can go back next year, but the Scrapping Cruise is a priority at the moment, so I am waiting to hear about that.

Also had an email from a competition site in the US letting me know that I won the March layout contest.........Holy Cow!!!! I thought I had won a CRICUT, but apparently overseas contestants can only take prize money, so I have won $100!!!! I am also in the running for the major yearly prize which is a Canon Rebel and a laptop (but I am presuming it would be cash again) Wouldn't that be awesome. The site is Scrapnwin. Can't remember how I stumbled across that one, but I am glad I did.
I also have another layout in this month's edition of Scrapbooking Memories titled "What do you see".

The White with 1 challenge for this month is to use White with Coral and to journal on your photo. My example is "Just be you" using a photo of Erin.

The Scrap the Boys challenge was to take inspiration from a photo that is posted on the blog and I came up with this one of Matthew running on the beach - "Free Spirit" had fun using lots of paint on this one.

Creative Scrappers have a new sketch each Sunday and are really worth checking out...here are my two latest examples for Sketch 45 (Birthday Gifts) and sketch 46 (Proud Uncle)

"Beautiful Eyes" and "My Best Boy" are ones I completed at the Retreat.

Creative Scrappers

2009-03-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

Very exciting news....I have been asked to remain on as a DT member with Creative Scrappers for the next 4 months. THey have fantastic sketches every week and so much wonderful inspiration. Thanks Kristine and Deb.....I am really looking forward to designing for you. Congratulations to the returning designers and to the new girls on the team. Have fun!!!! Oh and special mention to my friend Luzma....well done girl!

A quick share....

2009-03-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

Here are a few layouts I have completed over the last week or so. The first is sketch 41 at Creative Scrappers. Miss Erin decided she knew what that thing Nanny had up to her face was and started posing. It's a wonder I got any good photo's as I was laughing so much. She is just so cute!!!
THe second one is the March challenge for Scrap the Boys where we had to use UR or You are... in our title and journal with minimum of 50 words. I love this pic of Matthew.
THe next one is the March challenge for WHite with 1...to use mainly white, with Navy and use stars.
The final layout is just for fun......this is my youngest DS Clinton (wink for short) and his girlfriend Morgan. Love this photo too. THis design is great for using up scraps.

A little Questionaire............

2009-02-26T02:46:00.000-08:00

THis LO is sketch 36 at Inspirascrap.

My fellow DT'er at Scrap the Boys, Hannah Blair has sent me 5 questions to answer about myself, so here goes:

1. Your scrapbooking is inspirational to so many. Who inspires YOU in your scrapbooking?
ANSWER: There are many people who inspire me, but to try and name them all is very difficult. I really admire the work of Leah Killian from the US, and here in Aust. I love the work of Ali Russell. There are definately lots more but too many to mention.

2. What is your dream vacation destination?
ANSWER: Probably on a boat sailing around the Greek Islands, although I would love to visit Germany to visit the birth place of my ancestors.

3. Sweet or savoury, which do you prefer?
ANSWER: I'm definately a sweet girl!! Just can't help myself when it comes to desserts, chocolates, lollies....you name it, I love it!

4. If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only take FIVE scrapbooking items, what would they be?
ANSWER: WHite Cardstock, double sided tape, trimmer, pritt glue and a pack of bright coloured paper.

5. Which famous person (dead or alive) would you love to meet and why?
ANSWER: I'm a big Patrick Swayze fan, so I would love to meet him. There is is scene in the movie "Roadhouse" that just makes me get a little tingle LOL!!!

Thanks for sending me the questions Hannah.

News......

2009-02-20T18:45:00.000-08:00

So excited to announce that I am one of the new members of the creative team at White with 1 . I have loved doing the challenges there and now to be a team member is just icing on the cake. If you are wanting something different in a challenge then pop over and join in the fun. The layouts in my previous post were the ones I did for my application. Here's a list of all the girls on the team:-
Sarah Ward
Tammy Leaver
Toni M
Nicole Greguric
Lisa Balm
Tracey Campbell
Sandie Mallon
Liz Hicks
Melissa Heather
and ME!!

Now on other matters..........getting really excited about flying to Newcastle in April for the Shop and Crop retreat. Haven't been on a retreat for such a long time and can't wait to meet all the girls down there.
I am holding my first class/scrapping day from home tomorrow and am busily trying to get organised. I so desperately need to get cleaned up!!! LOL

Finally some more layouts....

2009-02-18T12:53:00.000-08:00

It's been a long week so far. I have been sick with a 24 hr bug which has been hanging around for at least 48 hrs!!!! Feeling better this morning so looks like I will be back at work today. I did these layouts early in the week and decided to share with you. Blooming Beauty (she is just too cute don't you think!!)is my White with 1 challenge for this month which was to use all white and brads/eyelets. I haven't used eyelets in so long and it was fun to dig them out again. That's what I love about some of these challenges, they make you think outside the square and do things that you may not have done for a while. It is easy to get into a "scrapping rut" and I for one like to go and check out my stash every now and then to remind myself of just what is hidden in the depths of my room........God that is really scarey!!!! Laugh out loud is one I loved doing cause I think the photo of Matthew screams out "bright and bold" so I used the red. Siblings is a different approach to the normal heritage style and I really like how it turned out. I have a ball of string on my table at the moment and I keep trailing it across my layouts to see if I can use it.....this time it worked well I think!!!

Heart Cards

2009-02-16T23:36:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful scrapper, Shazz Pratten has organised an appeal for scrappers to make "Thank you" cards for the victims of the Victorian Bush Fires. These cards would be used by the victims to pass on to anyone they want to thank. Shazz is asking that you make 10 cards and send them onto her before April 3. If you wish to help out with this fantastic venture, please email Shazz at
shazz64@westnet.com.au and she will let you know where to send your cards.
Alternatively you can visit the online scrapping community at the Scrap Lounge
http://scraplounge.com.au/forum/viewforum.php?f=21
A really worthwhile cause and fantastic idea. It is amazing how we can pull together and do something for those in need.
Well done Shazz!!

Let's help the families of the Victorian Bushfires.

2009-02-13T21:53:00.000-08:00

Fellow scrapper Sarah Gladman has launched a wonderful idea for scrappers all over, to help out the families of the Victorian Bushfires who have lost everything. She is asking all scrappers to make a 12 x 12 layout to donate to families who can then start recreating their memories from copies of photo's from family members. Go check out her blog here and if you can help please leave a comment! Wonderful idea Sarah and I know I will definately be helping out.

Thank you

2009-02-03T23:56:00.000-08:00

I received this lovely award from the talented Kathie Link!! Thanks Kathie, very much appreciated and looking forward to catching up with you at the retreat in April!
Oh and BTW, have you seen that White with 1 are looking for new DT!!!! Love this place and considering trying out for this one!!

Sharing....

2009-02-01T02:43:00.000-08:00

Some new layouts and a couple of cards for something different. My layout "Dirt" is my February assignment at Scrap the Boys THe layout had to be about things boys do outside and we had to include stamping and journalling. THis is Matthew on his first birthday oblivious to all the fuss and just enjoying the dirt and rocks.
The second layout "Cake" is for Creative Scrappers and is based on sketch 37. THis is Erin on her CHristening day trying to dig in and get a piece of her cake.
I also made these two cards....one I told my DS he could give to his girlfriend for Valentines Day (He just rolled his eyes at me, such a romantic that boy, just like his father!!! LOL) and the other is a Birthday card I made just for fun.
Hope you all have a great week! Don't forget to leave a message and say HI!

I've been tagged....

2009-01-30T20:11:00.000-08:00

Received this tag from two lovely ladies Susan and the other Susan I thought this was an interesting activity and was dying to see which photo I had in this particular file. Thanks to you both.

Here are the rules:
1. Go to the section of your computer where you store all of your photos.
2. Select the 6th folder.
3. Select the 6th photo from that folder.
4. Post and explain about that picture.
5. Tag 6 other people

THis photo was taken on the 6 July 2006. My friend Colleen and I both started scrapping through CM, but I ventured off to other things quite quickly. Colleen on the other hand stayed loyal for a long time and this photo is the first time she used metal on a layout. It was a momentous occasion LOL and I had to document it. I took a few photo's and actually scrapped a page about her transformation. She does beautiful work and is the most patient person I know. SHe has such an eye for detail....go check out the link on here to her blog.
I haven't passed this one to anyone, but if you want to do this please go ahead.

Long Weekends....Gotta love 'em!!

2009-01-25T20:32:00.000-08:00

After my slight disaster yesterday.....left my windows open in my scraproom during a storm, I thought I would make myself feel better by scrapping!! It's a good thing I got to clean my table the day before or I would have lost heaps of stuff, but thankfully I only got a few alpha stickers wet and a bit of chipboard, nothing major.
I was checking out the Pencil lines blog and saw sketch 118 which I fell in love with immediately. Here is my take....DD Kimberley's wedding back in 2005. I still had some photo's left to play around with and I really love how this turned out! I used some pink tuille tied with ribbon above and below the photo's and also got to use my new fiskars border punch....lovely lacey one!! THe butterflies are gold stickers on pink CS and I have tried to make them slightly dimensional by folding the wings.. THe flowers cut out is from some BG Periphery PP.

Having a lovely time.......

2009-01-24T15:16:00.001-08:00

scrapping while DH is away fishing!!! I finished my CT layout for Scrap the Boys February CHallenge. Great challenge this month girls, so don't forget to check it out on the 1st of the month. I also did a page for the January CHallenge at Aussie Pub Calls Roadmaps. I have had this photo printed for ages and I think I may have already scrapped it at some stage, but I liked it so much I did it again. The pic is DD Kimberley (very pregnant with Erin) and DGS Matthew enjoying a shower after a swim a the beach Jan 08. I also cleaned my scraproom yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!!!! For those of you who know me and those who have seen pictures, this is a major miracle. I would have taken some pics to show you (cause it probably won't last) but Kimberley borrowed my camera (she couldn't find hers.....takes after her mother that girl LOL) I bought some new storage drawers for my ever growing stash and put everything away that was left out from the last 20 pages I have scrapped (yes I am that bad!!) I can actually see the top of my desk. Now I just have to work out what to do with all the mags I have piled up on the floor....AAARRRGGGHHH!!

Look what I got.....

2009-01-23T01:48:00.000-08:00

My fellow DT member from Creative Scrappers, Chiqui has given me these blog awards. Thank you Chiqui, you made my day!!

\
Here it goes:
Mention five (5) addictions and pass on the award to five (5) other fab blogs!

1. Scrapbooking - very obvious!!
2. Spending time with my two beautiful Grandchildren.
3. Spending time (way too much) on the computer.
4. Chocolate
5. Buying scrap supplies!!!!

I am now passing these awards to the following amazing ladies:

1. Anna
2. Wendy
3. Colleen
4. Susan
5. Kris

Fantastic challenge contest....

2009-01-21T12:08:00.000-08:00

A new game happening over at Creative Scrappers Getting close to 50 participants already!!!
Our NEW Contest!

ONE PICTURE, MANY PAGES!!!!

Need a little inspiration?
Need a different Challenge ?
Tired of the same subject to scrapbook?
Wanna try something different?

Here are the details:
1 photo will be posted for you on February 1st.
You are permitted to print this "special " photo
- once or several copies of the same picture.. your choice
You can edit, crop , Black and White or color ... Your choice
Any size 2x2, 4x6, 5x7 or 8x10 !

You will have 3 weeks to complete the layout ...
no sketch will be provided, but you can use any of our posted sketches
your name has to be on the list of participants

No Layouts or "the picture" should be posted in galleries,
or blogs until our reveal day ... February 21
ALL Layouts need to be emailed
by >>>>> February 20th <<<<
to kristine@creativescrappers.com

.. One winner will be chosen by VOTE, by ALL Members WHO Participate in this contest!
no Outside voters will be allowed.. we will have a private forum for voting..
The Prize is the March Layout kit from Creative Scrappers!

This photo can be an inanimate object, a scenery picture or
something NON human so it`s not personal!

Do you want your name on the list of participants?
Join our forum and visit our Contest Section to register!

A new layout.....

2009-01-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

Here's my take on sketch 35 over at Creative Scrappers. It's worth popping over and checking out the inspiration from the Design Team and this week's Guest Designer, Michelle Lui. There's lots of great challenges in the forum, so if you are a little stuck, that's the place to go. Loved this sketch and I got to use more than 1 photo!! This is Bella, my sister's Granddaughter. SHe is so adorable and very photogenic.

Donald

2009-01-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

Had a bit of time to myself again this afternoon and printed this photo of our neighbour Donald. Donald is a 70 year old mentally handicapped man and has been our neighbour for almost 20 years. I often look after him when his carers need a break. It is very hard to describe him but he has a gentle soul as well as being a little bit crafty if you don't keep your wits about you. He loves to help me when he is here and it is nothing for him to make me a cup of tea or sweep the floor. Mind you there is always payment required LOL......icecream and custard or his favourite biccie or cake. He is easily pleased and always tells me how good my cooking is......LOL!!! THis photo was taken on Christmas night when he got up and played his new guitar for us and sang a few songs. He can't really play, but to him it is music! His favourite songs are - You are my Sunshine and I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts!!! He relishes the applause and would play all night if he was allowed. Donald is certainly a character and always shares a smile!

A quiet Saturday Afternoon.....

2009-01-10T00:39:00.000-08:00

and after looking after Matthew and Erin for most of the day I finally got to get some scrapping done and decided to have a go a the Scrap the Girls challenge for January. We were challenged to scrap a LO using a pic provided for inspiration. I found this photo of Erin that I hadn't scrapped yet (highly unusual I know!!!) Very simple but that is what I was looking for. I went with the colours for inspiration. This is the pic we had to use for inspiration and here is my layout and a close up. I used some leaf shaped sequins on the chipboard vine and added some pink Kindy Glitz to the flower petals and the butterflies. I printed the photo onto white CS and distressed the edges of the photo and the PP squares and then added some versa ink (pinecone). I thought the lace at the bottom added some softness to the layout

January White with 1

2009-01-05T14:22:00.000-08:00

I am going away for a couple of days tomorrow, so I thought I would get this one done before I go back to work next week! The January WW1 Challenge was to use white with turquoise and flourishes. I stamped the flourish and then used clear embossing powder on them....love my new heat gun! I did the same for the stamped flowers and then cut them out and attached them with foam mounting tape for some dimension. Added some sequins and kindy glitz and I was done! The big flower I found at a cheapy shop, really like the effect it gives but what a pain to scan! Took a little close up shot just for fun!

Creative Scrappers Sketch 33.....

2009-01-04T02:44:00.000-08:00

The designers reveal is now posted for sketch 33 over at Creative Scrappers so I can now share with you my first DT assignment!! Loved these photo's of Matthew and Erin that were taken by Kim Cross and the sketch was lots of fun to do. It is really interesting to see how everyone interpreted the sketch in different ways. New sketches are posted on Sundays, so if you are looking for some inspiration, do yourself a favour and go check it out.

Oh and before I forget........go check this out! ScrapStreet.com I had a layout accepted and it is now in this months edition!

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T23:20:00.000-08:00

Well another year has passed and I am so looking forward to 2009! I have so much to be thankful for.........wonderful family, good health, great job, and this fantastic hobby called scrapbooking!!!! Scrap the Boys has posted their first challenge - to use the new banner for inspiration to scrap your boy layout ie: bricks, skulls, colour, grunge etc. Fabbo prizes up for grabs, so pop on over and check it all out. Can't wait to see your entries. Here's my first LO as one of the new CT!!!

Scrap the Boys is back.............

2008-12-22T02:10:00.000-08:00

and I was lucky enough to be chosen as one of the new CT!!!!! Lots of awesome talent there now to share some inspiration each month.....go check out the blog January 1st is the date for the first challenge to be posted!!
Scrap the Boys CT for the next 6 months is:
Susan Longman
Peta McBeth
Tammy Milborn
Kellie Lusted
Leanne Trigg
Wendy Smith
Kerryn Fry
Emma Allen
Hannah Blair
and ME!!

Christmas Cards

2008-12-15T01:59:00.001-08:00

I have been making a few cards of late and thought I would share. Very simple but I think they have turned out OK considering I haven't made a lot of cards before.
Now my DH just has to make me send them to people. He thought it was hilarious that I was making cards!! (I am also known for being slack and not sending out my Christmas cards!!) I am going to be good this year.....but I think it's getting late and if I post tomorrow they still might not make it to their destination by Christmas LOL.....maybe next year!!!

My exciting news....

2008-12-13T00:15:00.000-08:00

It is now official.....I am one of the new designers at Creative Scrappers (Located in Canada) Thanks Susan.... I think the link thing works now!!! It is also great to see a few other Aussie girls there as well. I am really looking forward to working with the sketches over the next 3 months. Here is the list of all the designers.

Artist in the Spotlight

2008-12-12T18:08:00.000-08:00

Finally got my copy of Scrapbook Creations issue 61 where I am featured as "Artist in the Spotlight". I was really excited to be asked to feature in this section and they have included 2 of my layouts as well. Here'a a couple of pics to share.

I have some more important news to share too.............stay tuned!!!!

The Festive Season.....

2008-12-07T01:58:00.000-08:00

is almost here and so is the hot weather. Extremely hot here today and really humid. I got up early this morning and decided to scrap before it got too hot. I got some Christmas photo's from Kimberley of the two babies and used one of Erin to do my entry in the December White with 1 challenge which is to use white with festive colours and bling. OOHhhh and I forgot to mention that I was lucky enough to win last months challenge and received a $30 voucher from the lovely Delana at Uproar to scrapmore. Also on the home front.....today I put up our Christmas Tree and with the help of DGS Matthew. It actually felt special again, as CHristmas is all about family and traditions. I will post some photo's shortly.

Here are a couple of the photo's that were taken by Kim Cross of Matthew and Erin, and my layout for the WW1 Challenge and also a Christmas card I made this afternoon. On the layout I have used kindy glitz and paint splatters, a few gems and I also added gems and glitz to the Kaiser bauble rubons. The little red butterflies are printed onto transperancy but I actually scanned the layout and they look like they are sitting flat, IRL they have dimension and their wings sit up nicely. Unfortunately the scan doesn't do the layout justice, but I hope you can get the effect.

One Sunday afternoon..............

2008-11-23T02:25:00.000-08:00

I got to scrap!!!! I have worked full time for the last couple of weeks and just haven't had the energy or motivation to scrap, but today I completed the November White with 1 Challenge. Caught this gorgeous photo of Erin laughing at Matthew. Love how this one has come together and I'm likin' the lime too.
DS Liam was home from Gladstone for the weekend and it was great to catch up with them.

Not long now.....

2008-11-08T13:30:00.000-08:00

Christmas is almost here and another year will have passed. I don't know where time goes. THis Wednesday 12 November will be the fourth anniversary of my wonderful Father's passing. It all seems like yesterday when we heard the news that his cancer had spread and that there was nothing more they could do and I remember driving to the hospital everyday to spend time with him like it was only a few days ago. I miss him terribly and still shed a tear everyday when I think of him. Losing a parent is a difficult thing to cope with and it does get easier but that tug on your heart strings is always present. Love you always Dad.

I scrapped yesterday with my good friend Colleen and got two layouts done and my first Christmas card of the season. I bought this wonderful product called "SHeer Delights" from KI memories and wow it is so good to work with. I love this photo of Emma, Emily and Morgan taken at Erin's Christening. These 3 gorgeous girls are my 3 sons girlfriends. The pink Layout is my entry over at Aussie Pub Calls Roadmaps for the month of November. Princess Erin in her Christening outfit!!!

Almost a month has gone by........

2008-10-26T03:21:00.000-07:00

and I haven't posted!!!! I haven't had a lot of time this month to get much scrapping done, although I have been working on a couple of projects in the "Product Challenge" for an upcoming edition of Scrapbooking Memories. Can't share those for obvious reasons, but you will see them soon. I did manage to do the White With 1 October challenge which was to use mainly white with orange and some stamping. This one is of our Granddaughter Erin on her Christening Day.

Finished at Last!

2008-09-28T06:22:00.000-07:00

I have just finished the final assignment at The Nook University!!!! I am so proud of myself for completing all the set tasks and I have had such a blast. Here are a couple more to share with you. "Inocencia" is my Foriegn Langauge Assignment and "Sugar Baby Love" is for my Music Assignment. YOu can check out all of my LO's for this challenge here -

On the home front, DD Kimberley, the kids and I went to Noosa for the night to visit DS Michael and his girlfriend EMily. Did lots of shopping and spent too much money but it was fun anyway. It was really nice to spend time with them. DS Liam and his girlfriend shifted into a new house in Gladstone on the weekend so can't wait to go up and see them as well. Hopefully all the family will be home in a couple of weeks.

Done for this week!!!

2008-09-20T18:40:00.001-07:00

I have mananged to meet the deadline for this week over at the Nook U. Here are my last two for the week.......Graphics/Computer Technology Elective - I can't do digi layouts so we could use 3 alternatives. I have altered my photo, use 5 lines of computer written journalling and printed a computer graphic (butterfly on transperency). I am really happy with how this has turned out, well I am a bit of a "White Background" freak!!! The second one is for the Physical Ed/Health Elective and the layout had to include some sort of movement. I have used photo's of Matthew on his swing (took photo's for this yesterday - just happen to have my camera when I went to visit !!!!). I changed the colour of the photo's and the buttons to help give the impression of movement. Another one I am really happy with.

Oh and before I forget.......Our wonderful neighbours have been blessed with the birth of a beautiful baby girl on Friday. Welcome "Ella Beth" and congratulations to Chris, Leisa and little Joshua!!!Yippee...more pics to scrap.

More Assignments!!

2008-09-18T22:52:00.000-07:00

Here are two more LO's for My ScrapbookNook University. The first one is my science assignment - all about Chemistry with someone. I have written a Love Letter to my DH (don't laugh) and the second one is for the Psychology/sociology elective (sounds funny doesn't it) and it was to be something about routines etc. It's been a bit hectic for the last week or so but I am coping and having lots of fun at the same time.

MADLY SCRAPPING!!

2008-09-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

Been really busy this week trying to keep up my schedule for My Scrapbook Nook University! Lots of subjects to do and I'm having a blast. I am slowly working my way through the core subjects and also managing to do most of the electives and extra credits so far. I am really happy with my results so far as well. 9/10 for English, 9/10 for maths and 10/10 for my Art assignment!!!! Here are a couple more that I have completed this week.

Another two layouts...

2008-09-12T04:43:00.000-07:00

I had the best day today.........I scrapped with my good friend Colleen and managed to complete another two LO's. Colleen hasn't scrapped for a while now and it is so good to see her back into it again. We both started scrapping together and have always encouraged one another and it is just not the same if we don't get together and scrap occasionally. Thanks for a great day Colleen. These two LO's are part of my assignments for My Scrapbook Nook University challenges.

Just a quick share........

2008-09-09T05:19:00.000-07:00

It's now 10.20pm Tuesday night and I have just completed 2 layouts and thought I'd share before I hit the bed. First one is of DS Michael and his partner and the second is of DGD Erin starting to become mobile on the floor.

Another Week gone!

2008-08-31T05:44:00.000-07:00

Another week has passed and I was able to scrap some more. I completed my final LO for the Sizzlin Summer contest over at http://mycreativescrapbook.com. THis one was anything to do with food. BBQ's, fav recipe etc: I've really enjoyed the last six weeks and it was good to have something to inspire me to scrap. Thanks to Liz for inviting my to be a part of the fun.
Oh and had another interesting thing happen this week too.....I was invited to "5 mins on the lounge" by the lovely ladies at http://scraplounge.com. Not exactly sure why they wanted to chat with little old me, but thanks girls it was lots of fun.
I also managed to finally complete my CJ's for the girls at Country Papercraft. Thanks for being so patient with me girls, even though I got behind with these,they will now be on their way in the post this week.
ONly working half a day tomorrow as we have to head down to Tewantin for a funeral and then hopefully catch up with oldest DS before we head home again tomorrow night.
Hope everyone has a great week and thanks for stopping by.....don't forget to leave me a message, I won't bite!!! LOL

Being a Mother......

2008-08-24T14:03:00.000-07:00

WHy is it so hard at times? We have just become "Empty Nesters" as of yesterday. After 26 years of children in the house, our youngest son moved out to live with his girlfriend. THey are only a couple of blocks away, but boy it is such a strange feeling. The house is so quiet and I can't stop tears welling up everytime it is mentioned. DH is laughing saying how good it is, but being a mother is so different. MOthers seem to be the ones who share all the joys, all the sad moments, all the moments we would rather forget, all the special achievements and all the emotion of life itself. I must say that we have been blessed with having 4 terrific kids and we are both so very proud of all of them. THey are all so independant and I hope have all taken on board the things that we have tried to instill in them growing up. Life sends us many challenges and being a Mother can sometimes be one of the most rewarding but Gee sometimes it is also one of the hardest!!!!!!

Let's get vertical.....

2008-08-22T23:55:00.001-07:00

I actually scrapped 2 layouts today......Woo Hoo!!! It is really cold up here in Qld today and I have had the house to myself. The first LO is my entry in the SIzzlin SUmmer Contest at My Creative Scrapbook - Fav. Holiday. I have used 18 pics on this page and I love how it turned out. I picked out my fav shots from our recent holiday to Agnes Water and placed them all together vertically on my page. I love Daisy D paper and this is what I have used for my background. THe chipboard flower that I painted black is from ScrapFX and I added some blue beads to the centre.
The second LO is of Matthew meeting Erin for the first time. I decided to go vertical again and used 3 gorgeous photo's of the two of them. I really enjoy using bright PP against a white background. The little black frame under the bottom photo is something I picked up at Rubystreet Design.

Finally a Friday at home!!

2008-08-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

I had my first Friday off work for about a month and I had a very relaxing day. Matthew slept over last night and I dropped him off at Day Care and then after a little housework (LOL) I drove to Kingaroy and visited my LSS and of course spent too much money! But I did pick up some gorgeous new stuff. THe chipboard tree and butterfly are from a Western Australian company called Twiddleybitz. You really must check them out and ask your LSS to order, they have some amazing stuff.. I scrapped when I got home and came up with this layout of Erin using a sketch by the ever so talented Liz Qualman. Love this PP by Cosmo Cricket and especially love the chipboard tree. I added some black sequins topped with coloured beads too.

A Little Different.....

2008-08-17T03:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a LO I completed today for the Sizzlin' Summer Contest at http://mycreativescrapbook.com This is for the Family Section and it is one of DH and our 3 sons. THis lot are simply "Fishing" mad. DH has always been a keen fisherman and has passed on his obsession to the 3 boys. THe large photo of DH on the right has been printed onto a transparency. This LO is a little different to many of the LO's I have been doing of late as I have filled the whole page. I am happy with how it has turned out and also that I actually did some journaling as well LOL!! HOpe everyone has a great week!!
PS Grandchildren are home and there were lots of hugs and squeezy's all round!!!!

THE BEST WEEK!!

2008-08-14T22:53:00.000-07:00

I just had the best week!!! Firstly I won the weekly draw at http://mycreativescrapbook.com/ in their Sizzling Summer Contest, and then I had my LO "Blue Eyes" accepted to be published at http://scrapstreet.com (online magazine in the US) and today I had another acceptance from Scrapbook Creations for my LO titled "Cuteness". It will also be in issue 61 along with two others of mine and this is also the issue that I am featured as "Artist in the Spotlight". So I will be stalking the newsagent in a couple of months when it comes out!. So I am going out tonight for dinner and I might even have a couple of drinks (this is a bit unusual for me, as alcohol and me just don't mix all that well) LOL
OK now that I have raved on a bit too much.........
Grandbabies come home from holiday tomorrow....YAY!! I have really missed them this week. DH and the boys have been negotiating to buy a boat and found out today that it was sold yesterday to someone else......not a happy bunch here tonight!!!
I finished work early today and have the weekend to myself now, so hopefully I can get some more scrapping done.

Memories of You Dad

2008-08-11T03:02:00.000-07:00

This is my entry in the monthly challenge at http://www.whitewith1.blogspot.com To use white, yellow and flowers. This month the Cancer Council's Daffidol Day is held to support cancer research and I thought this was the perfect occasion to scrap this photo of my late Father and I on my Wedding Day. Dad passed away in November 2004 after suffering from Cancer and it was the hardest thing I have ever had to cope with. Losing a parent is more than just losing a relative, it is like losing part of your soul. Dad was so nervous and practised his speech everyday leading up to the Wedding and I remembering being so proud of him at the reception. His words are still with me 27 years later. Rest in Peace Dad, I will always love you.

Another Sunday Layout.....

2008-08-03T03:52:00.001-07:00

Sunday seems to be the only day I have had time to scrap this week, not for the lack of wanting or trying to fit it in. Worked Friday again and then went to the markets in Nanango with Kimberley and the kids, home via Kingaroy and a visit to Zeniah's (LSS) and then went next door to celebrate Joshy's 5th Birthday. Today I had the day to myself mostly, Kimberley came up and we printed out Birthday invitations for Matthew's 2nd Birthday and then after she left I scrapped this page..........very simple but I seem to be doing a lot of simple one's of late. I saw an idea at LSS where someone had used scraps of ribbon and this is my version.
Hope you all have a wonderful week!

Determined!!!

2008-07-29T06:04:00.000-07:00

I sat up until after midnight last night scrapping and it was simply freezing, but I wanted to complete a page and I didn't care that my toes were almost dropping off!! It is now 11.06pm tonight and I am still sitting here at this computer, but I scrapped another page!! DS Clinton has been complaining that I haven't done a page with him and his girlfriend, so here it is Wink (that's his pet name)
I really love how this turned out.......especially the colours!!!

Winter has arrived!!

2008-07-28T06:04:00.000-07:00

Well winter certainly let us know what it is all about up here in Qld today!! We had rain, wind, hail and sleet!!! and the forecast is that it is going to get worse. What a joy that will be!! I have been having withdrawals because I haven't scrapped for over a week and I wasn't going to let the cold get the better of me. So what did I scrap........a pic of Matthew at the beach!!!

Tag from Paulien's Blog

2008-07-22T04:32:00.000-07:00

Two names you go by: Sharon and Nanny

things you are wearing right now: Oh no, not a good time to ask this question as I have just got out of the shower........Let's just say a Robe!! LOL

Two of your favorite things to do: Scrap of course and spend time with my Grandchildren, Matthew and Erin.

Two things you want very badly at the moment: To see my two boys who live away from home; and have a whole week at home just to scrap.

Two Pets that you have or have had: My Silky Terrier Maggie who sadly died a couple of months ago and Jess who was a Blue Cattle Dog and who is no longer with us.

Two things you did last night: Sat here on the computer and watched "A Farmer wants a wife" on television.

Two things you did today: Went to work and ordered new stock; Cooked Rump Steak and Potato Bake for Dinner tonight.

Two things you ate today: A banana for breakfast and a toasted Ham Sandwich for lunch.

Two people you last talked to: Dennis (DH) and my friend Diane on the phone.

Two things you're doing tomorrow: Work again and I need to arrange a credit account with a Rural Merchandise company for our business. Oh and Matthew an Erin are having a sleep over with us tomorrow night....Woo Hoo

Two memorable vacations: In 2003 I went to the NOrthern Territory to spend some time with a friend I went to school with. Her and her DH run a huge cattle station and I had a blast. Last year I flew to Perth in Western Australia to attend a Scrapping Camp and met some of the girls from a scrapping site that I belong to.

Two favorite holidays: I love spending time with family at Christmas and New Year and we usually all go away together to the beach.

I will do what Paulien did and tag everyone who reads this blog.

Toot toot !!

2008-07-17T05:29:00.000-07:00

I had an email today from Scrapbook Creations asking to publish two more of my layouts, and...............to feature me as the "Artist in the Spotlight" in issue 61!!!! A little bit of excitement happening here and now I apparently have to go and find a decent photo of myself.........ARRRGGHHHH

I also discovered the Haunted range of PP's from Cosmo Cricket, I am going to have to order some from somewhere. Go to Leah Killian's blog http://lifeaslou.blogsome.com/ and check out her layouts using this paper........wow. She has just been offered a positon on Cosmo's DT and she does such beautiful work. You can also find her at http://www.myscrapbooknook.com/ .

No scrapping pics to post today as I haven't scrapped all week, work work and more work. I even have to work the next two Saturday mornings as well!! I shouldn't complain.........more money to spend on scrapping supplies!

Thought I might share these two gorgeous photo's of my beautiful Grandbabies..........photo's taken by good friend Kym Cross!!

Guess What!!

2008-07-14T01:01:00.001-07:00

My lovely friend Zarah has asked me to be a Guest Designer on her Sketch Blog - http://inspirascrap.blogspot.com/ She is a very very talented lady and her sketches are wonderful. I am honoured to be able to share some inspiration.....thanks Zarah. Here is the first layout I have completed of sketch no: 7 Do yourself a favour and go check out the site.

It's the Weekend!

2008-07-12T05:22:00.000-07:00

After a long week at work (and very busy) I also had to work this morning. Seems like most of the weekend is gone and I have so much to do around the house.........LOL I scrapped tonight instead!!! This is my entry for the July sketch at Aussie Pub calls Roadmaps.

Just love love love these new flowers I found made by Prima. I wish I had bought more!

The lace across the bottom of the LO is actually lace tape by Christina Re! (very handy stuff)

Not much happening in my part of the world, might try scrapping again tomorrow if I get all my washing done!!!!!

PS: I also added some new songs to my fav's list here, hope you enjoy listening!!!!

A cold Saturday!

2008-07-04T23:36:00.000-07:00

Haven't ventured outside much today as it has been drizzly and windy and COLD!! We really haven't had much cold weather up this way yet so it was to be expected. I was suppose to work to day to do stocktake, but my boss rang and said that they got most of it done yesterday, so I didn't have to come in..........YAY!! So I got stuck into the domestic duties (sort of anyway) and in between loads of washing and folding I manged to SCRAP!!! I completed this one for the July Challenge at http://whitewith1.blogspot.com/ This month it was to use mainly white with some black and a homemade embellishment. This is Erin's little feet in her Mummy's hand at 2 days old. I handmade the flowers from punched hearts, added some ink and gel pen and then covered them with dimesional magic. THanks for my good friend Colleen who taught me how to do them.

OOh and excitement, excitement........I won the June Challenge at White with 1!!!!!!!! I now have a $20 voucher to spend on scrapping supplies, which will be great as I haven't really gone shopping for a few months!!!!

Now, if there is anyone out there that actually reads my blog (I know it's not that exciting) please leave me a message, I love to see who has been visiting!!

Still scrapping!

2008-06-29T00:19:00.000-07:00

Another two LO's done!! The first one is a sketch from Pencil lines by Debee Campos (Sweet Erin Claire) and the second one which I finished this afternoon is for the June challenge at white with 1 blog. (Blue Eyes) I think these challenges were just what I needed to get me into gear again. I certainly have missed my creative outlet over the last few months.

The White with 1 challenge was to use mainly white with one other colour (which was blue this month) and to add a paint technique. I used paint on my wooden mesh stamp and stamped onto the CS and also stamped onto the chipboard letters of the title for a different effect. I love this photo of Matthew taken while we were on holidays at Agnes Water in January. I altered the photo to focus on his beautiful blue eyes (pasting the B & W photo over the coloured photo and then using the eraser tool to rub out the eye area to bring the colour through to the top layer) I added blue sequins to the chipboard tree and scattered a few.

I am really happy with how the LO of Erin turned out using the Pencilline sketch. I have used no PP at all. I love using white backgrounds and B & W photo's and I think the colour of the flowers was just enough to make it pop.

Well the weekend is almost over and it is back to work tomorrow. Liam and Emma were home from Gladstone, it was good to spend some time with them. Of course I cried when they left to go home this afternoon, I am such sook!! I always cry when either Liam or Michael leave to go back to their own homes. I really miss them.

I suppose I should go and finish some housework and get dinner ready.

What's going on??

2008-06-24T02:43:00.000-07:00

I have just completed my 3rd LO in as many days...........I seem to go from one extreme to the other!!! I love this LO of our beautiful Erin. I took this photo when she was one month old and decided to do something different with this LO. I wanted a vintage feel and I love trying out new things.

I would also like to wish my baby a Happy Birthday for yesterday........he is now 20 years old. OH how time flies, I don't know where the years have gone. We had our usual Monday night is "Fish Night" tea and Matthew helped Clinton blow out his candle (we used a tea light cause we didnt have a real birthday candle LOL) I left my purse at work so poor boy had to pay for his own birthday cake and the rest of the groceries!!! Happy Birthday Wink!! We love you!.

On a sad note, our community lost a young man in a car accident on the weekend. Such a tragic waste of a young life. Our thoughts go out to his family. RIP Mark.

Aussie Pub Calls Roadmaps - June Sketch

2008-06-21T22:29:00.000-07:00

Just found this site and decided to try the fantastic sketch for the month of June. I have needed some extra inspiration to get me scrapping again. I like how this finished up.

I also scrapped last night and completed this one of Matthew and Erin.

I did another LO!!!!

2008-06-20T06:10:00.000-07:00

Here's our little beauty now at 3 months. I am finding it difficult to put too much on my LO as it has been so long since I have scrapped. THis photo is so beautiful that I don't think I needed to embellish too much anyway.

Matthew and Erin spent the day with me today as Kimberley was called in to work.........Nanny had a ball!

I've been AWOL

2008-06-18T02:40:00.000-07:00

HI Everyone, I've been a very bad blogger!! Is there something that happens to our mind and body once we get passed 45 years old??? I seem to be lost somewhere between "My new job" and "Can you babysit" and "did you do this today, and when are you going to do that". I have only scrapped two LO's of beautiful baby Erin and she is now just over 3 months old. I haven't even made time to sit on the computer and see what is happening in the world of scrapping until two weeks ago. By the way, I love my new job!! Never thought of myself as a salesperson, but I am finding it very rewarding. Matthew and Erin are just wonderful, Matthew is really starting to turn into a chatterbox now and simply repeats everything that is said, which is a bit scary at times. Erin is such a happy baby and is full of smiles. I am so lucky to have them close and be able to steal them to take home with me occasionally.

I made the sad decision to resign from my role as DT with Country Papercraft simply because of all the new things that are happening in my life. Thanks so much to the wonderful Marg and Mish as well who welcomed me with such enthusiasm to their creative group. I have to make a real effort to get back to some serious scrapping.

I have a LO in this month's Scrapbook Creations (issue 55) and another acceptance for issue 60. I also have just had another couple of acceptances from Scrapbooking Memories for some upcoming editions. Tis all a little bit exciting!!!

PINK PINK AND MORE PINK

2008-03-11T14:52:00.000-07:00

We have a Grand daughter!!!

It's a girl !!!!!!! "Erin Claire" arrived at 1.24amTuesday 4 March 2008, weighing 8lb 2oz. All the family are over the moon. Thanks to Jo for reminding me to post on here, how slack am I?

Here's a pic taken when she was just 8 hrs old. Look at all that hair!!!! The other photo is proud brother Matthew.

Nanny and Poppy are just a busting with pride!!!!

No Baby Yet!!!!

2008-02-23T22:03:00.000-08:00

DD Kimberley is now overdue by a couple of days and I just can't wait. I ring or call in at least twice a day to check on her. She looks like she is ready to bust........poor thing, especially in this extraordinary heat we are having this weekend. I thought I was going to pass out yesterday, we don't have airconditioning in our house and I was so heat stressed that I lay on the polished wooden floors thinking it would be cooler.......what a joke!! Today is a little better but I think I am actually looking forward to getting back to work tomorrow to the aircon!

Don't really have much to say this week...........very boring! I'll save it for when the baby arrives. LOL Here's a couple of LO's that I have done in the last couple of weeks.

It's so hot!

2008-02-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

I'm back...........and OMG it is so hot in our neck of the woods today. Really high humidity and of course we don't have aircon - may need to have a serious conversation with DH about this.

Not much exciting happening around here at the moment - OH except.............."drum roll" ...........I have had two more acceptances for publication from Scrapbooking Memories!!!!

I have also been trying ATC's which is something new for me. They are quite addictive when you get started.

How fantastic is this new Grungeboard? I love the texture and feel of it and it it so versatile.

I have a couple of LO's here to show you what i have done with it. I used a couple different colours of ink on these (UR the Prince LO) and I used paint around the edge of the label and heart on the other (Meer Cats)

Other news...............Liam and Emma have made the move to Gladstone and Liam has started his new job. Emma is still looking at the moment. His one complaint was how hot it was!!

Clinton has now been signed off on finishing his apprenticeship, so I suppose it won't be long before he heads north as well. Dennis and I are going to have the house to ourselves - empty nesters!!!! In one way it will be great, but sad at the same time.......I love having my kids around. Michael is enjoying his new job at Noosa, so seems like they are all settled.

No baby yet........into the last couple of weeks now!!! I so want to go and buy some pink things! LOL. I am just going to have to sit it out and spend up when he or she is born!.

January is gone!!

2008-01-27T16:17:00.000-08:00

January is gone for another year and this is my first post for just over 3 months!!!!!!!
What can I say.....life gets hectic, priorities change, expectations do the same.
We had a great holiday at Agnes Water with all the family which was wonderful. The weather could have been much better but I am not complaining..........we had a holiday!!
I am hoping that 2008 is going to be great for our family. Lots of things happening already this year and probably the hardest was losing my beautiful Grandmother on 5 January. She was so special in my life and I am so lucky to have photo's of her with my Grandson Matthew.
DS Liam and his girlfriend are moving to Gladstone next weekend. He has transferred his job and is really looking forward to the change. DS Clinton finishes his Fitter and Turner apprenticeship in about a week and he is also thinking about making the move to Gladstone in the not too distant future. DS Michael is also thinking seriously about the same move later in the year when his lease runs out in Noosa.

DD Kimberley is due to have her second baby in about 3 weeks. On the countdown now.....another precious little soul for Nanny to scrap!!! LOL Matthew is growing up so fast and is now starting to repeat everything and is giving out lots of hugs and kisses!!

I have started back in my new job and lots of organising happening for a planning day on the 21st February. Everything is so new and different to my old job, but I am loving the new challenges.
DH Dennis is enjoying working Part time!! Doing some casual work for friends.......some people have to good!!! SE Qld has had some good rain and things are now looking green and lush, but we still need lots more to fill up the BP Dam and lift water restrictions. The drought has definately not broken here.
On the scrapping scene I have been keeping up with my DT duties at CountryPapercraft and also my 52 pieces of me is also keeping me busy. Having such a great time doing this and the end result will be a wonderful keepsake. Also got some yummy Grungeboard in the mail the other day and can't wait to use some......today might be the day!!! Loving the new BG and have been lucky to have two more LO's accepted in the BasicGrey gallery.
I also have two LO's being published in Scrapbook Creations later this year. I submitted a few to Scrapbooking Memories yesterday........not holding my breathe though!!
I made up some challenges for the Australia Day Cyber Crop at CPC and the girls and I had some fun with that and the Bingo!!!

Western Australia here I come!!!!!!!!

2007-10-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

Flying out tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!! Heading off to Miss Julie's today and spending the night with her and then heading to Brisbane tomorrow morning to catch our flight at midday!!! Woo Hoo!!!!! Very very very excited and trying to do all the last minute things here at home. DH And DS are also heading off on Thursday to go fishing in the NT! So you can imagine the chaos around here trying to pack and sort things out. I am limiting the amount of scapping supplies that I take..........hehehehe (I can bring more home with me!!) Can't wait to meet everyone and have a break from all the everyday stuff around here. I am going to miss our baby boy!!!! I am so lucky as a Grandmother to be able to see him everyday.........I am very spoilt! Finished a couple of LO's of him on the weekend (surprise surprise) Here they are. See you all in just over a week. We are stopping over in Adelaide for a couple of days on the way home and catching up with Leonie and Kathryn!!

Question???

2007-10-07T02:15:00.000-07:00

Why is it that some people have such interesting blogs and others...like mine.....are just ordinary, run of the mill, everyday blah???? I have been cruising around the land of blogs for the last week or so and I am astounded by the way some people can express themselves so well and make the most mundane things sound like "Heaven on Earth". Is it just a clever way with words or does taking the kids to the doctor get you giggling???? Some people can make me laugh by just reading their opening sentence.............God how I wish I could do that!!!! Not that I am out to be the Blog Queen of laughter, but I would like to think that there are some people out there that might look forward to reading about my everyday happenings and feel good after it!!! OMG that sounds like it should have been in a 'porno mag'. But you know what I mean don't you? There are just some great blogs out there that are so entertaining that I can't wait to go back and read the next instalment! Maybe I should just strive to improve and hopefully I can bring just a small smile to someones face and they might even have a little giggle later in the day when they think about reading my blog...........LOL!! That is just so lame isn't it???? It's such a sad thing to think that my blog is just one little speck out there in cyber space and who really wants to read it anyway!!!! Personally I think.......and I think too much..........it is just a great place to vent my thoughts and hopes and dreams and if no one else reads it then it is not really going to change the course of my life!!
Read on people and turn that frown upside down and put a smile on your dial!!!!!!

Now that I have go all that out of the way..........can't believe I just wrote all that!!!! Don't worry luvs it's just the weather............so stinking hot here today and I have to go back to work tomorrow after two weeks holiday!!!!! I shouldn't complain too much.............one day of work, then off to Brisvegas on the BOOB BUS and then half a day of work on Thursday and then I have two weeks off again!!! PERTH here I come!!! Had lunch with Julie last week and sounds like the girls have worked out exactly how we are going to be entertained while we are there...........I just can't wait. HOw many more sleeps is it??????
I made my Secret Santa pressie for CPC today...........can't post a piccie yet cause then it wouldn't be a secret!!!!!

CPC October Kit

2007-10-01T14:24:00.000-07:00

Here are my LO's for the October kit at Country Papercraft..............wow!! Loved this kit. The PP's are from Melissa Francis. I'm really happy with how they turned out as I have probably only ever done 4 or 5 double pagers!!!!! EVER!!! I had these photos of my wonderful Grandma when we took the babies to visit her one morning. Grandma has Alzheimers and I don't really think she knew whose babies they were but she didn't care. She just cuddled and kissed them and incredibly Matthew responded so beautifully to her. He touched her and cuddled her too. Isabella stayed asleep and was so content while Grandma rocked her and kissed her forehead. It was so beautiful to watch.

Anyway............get on over to CPC and check out the rest of the LO's the Design Team came up with this month......SUPER!!!

Only 14 more sleeps and we head off to WA..............I'm starting to panic, I don't have a clue on what to pack (clothing and scrap supplies!)

Just found a new place to visit.............The wonderful Tess has a blogspot called Scrap the Stuff. Great little place for inspirational LO's and challenges. Check it out using my link on the side.

Another lovely lady named Joyce also has a blog called Inspire Me. Lots of inspiration here too!

Holidays!!!

2007-09-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

Woo Hoo I am on holidays for 2 whole weeks! Holidays are extra good for me now as I don't have any kids home from school anymore!!!! Suckers!!! Although I will be looking after DGS Matthew for a few days, but that is so much fun. Today I plan to finish off my double LO I am doing for CPC's October designer kit!! and then............tidy up my scrap room. I thought about taking a photo, but I couldn't put you through the horror of it all!!! Yes it is that bad!!! They say that messy people are creative but I think my room is really pushing it!! I've done a few more LO's of Matthew (surprise surprise) and have been experimenting a bit.........quite happy with how they have turned out.

Next week Colleen and I plan to get together and make our SS gifts for the swap at CPC and a couple of other little surprises (RAK's) soI have to start planning that while Colleen is away AGAIN this week. OOHHH OOHH and only 3 more weeks before the wonderful Julie H and I fly out to Western Australia!!!!!! Our flights are booked so there is no going back now. I am so excited about the whole trip. So many people to meet and so much too see. We are stopping over in Adelaide for a couple of days on the way home as well.

CPC have a year long challenge coming up in November........52 peices of ME. It is a mini album, one LO per week about yourself. The girls have come up with categories and extra little challenges along the way. I haven't worked out what format I will be doing as yet. Have a look at some of the examples that some of the girls have uploaded they are fantastic!!

That's our Boy!!

2007-09-20T04:25:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of our second son Liam who played in the Sunshine Coast Rugby League A - Grade Grand Final last Sunday. Liam plays for Noosa and they defeated Nambour 44 - 18. This was the first Grand Final I have been to since Liam started playing for Noosa. We had such a great day and we were very proud. Liam scored two tries, but one was disallowed (they said he dropped it over the line, but he claims differently LOL) It was a bit of an eye opener sitting in the crowd to hear how much people dislike the Noosa Team (they called them silvertails) I just wanted to yell out and say "my boy is just a country kid from Murgon, nothing "silvertailed" about him!! But some people get so carried away with sport! You did good son!!!!

My week...........have had a wonderful bout of bacterial conjuctivitis all week....charming ailment I must say!!! The only plus is that I only worked one day this week! Also finished our last week of the scrapbook journey over at CPC, what a wonderful 8 weeks that has been. A special big thank you to my partner Lee.........you go girl!!!!! I am also on holidays now for 2 weeks, so hope to get lots of scrapping done.

Memories

2007-08-26T00:56:00.000-07:00

Had a blast from the past this week working on Challenge 5 in the Amazing Scrapbooking Journey over at Country Paper Craft. We had to scrap a building that had some significance in our lives. After numerous emails back and forth with Lee, we both realised that the houses that we both lived in when we were first married were cottages on our farms. So I scrapped "The Shack" and Lee did "The Cottage". Our little home was originally the Dairy on my family farm and we converted it into a 4 room little flat. It was very special and we lived there for the first 5 years of our marriage. Kimberley and Michael were both born while we lived there and after we moved, my sister and her DH lived there as well. In later years my Grandmother lived there to be close to my Mum.

In other news, we have signed a contract to sell our farm block and I have now confirmed that I am going to Perth (Bruce Rock actually) in October to the CPC Retreat!!!!! I am so excited as I have never been to WA before and I also get to travel with JULIE .H!!!! Going to have a blast I am sure!! DH is actually leaving a couple days after me and going to the NT on a fishing trip.

SE Qld has certainly broke many records in the rain department this week, but unfortunately we didn't get anything of any substance here in the South Burnett. Here's hoping for some more soon. The boys at Noosa are still flooded in where they live so it could be a while before they get back to work. Here's my LO of "The Shack"

Using Transparencies

2007-08-15T05:53:00.000-07:00

For the current edition of CPC newsletter, Lee and I posted LO's on using transparencies. This LO is where I have cut out a circle on the bottom left and then replaced it with transparency. I then glued buttons onto the transparency and the cut out I used under the word "blue". I love the colours in this one and am very happy how it has turned out.

http://groups.google.com/group/country-papercraft-newsletter/web/august-mid-monthly-update

Click on the above link and check it out for yourself. I am eagerly awaiting the posty to bring me my September Designers Kit. Can't wait to use the yummy PP's in this one............sssshhh, its a secret!!!

Matthew Turns One!!!

2007-08-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

Twelve months have passed so quickly! Matthew turned one today and we all turned up for a BBQ lunch and party to celebrate. Kimberley was so proud of herself.......she made his birthday cake all by herself!! Matthew didn't quite know what all the fuss was about, but he had a ball. He was such a good boy all day, he did have a little sleep in between, but was pretty worn out again by the end of the day. Talk about presents, I have never seen anything like it. There was a comment made that if she had a garage sale and sold them all they could put him through school with the money LOL.

We went back down last night before he went to bed and he had just got his second wind and he put on a performance for us (a good one not naughty) he had us all in stitches!

Dennis went off fishing to Kauri Creek in the afternoon and Liam arrived home later last night from his fishing trip. We are all heading down to Kawana today to watch Liam play. I am so tired I think I'd rather stay home.

The CPC amazing journey is heading into it's 4th week, what a great time we're having. Here's my week 3 entry..........My 10 Favourite Songs. I love putting this together, brought back a lot of memories. I have the lyrics to all the songs under the photo.

It's been a while....

2007-08-03T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here's one of the LOs I completed for Country Papercraft's latest newsletter using the gorgeous Doodlebug PP's. These are part of the August Designer Kits.

I have been really slack of late and haven't updated my blog. So here I am, I'm back. Now, what's been happening; On the home front, we are going to be Grandparents for the second time, DD Kimberley broke the news last week. I'm so excited (another scrapping subject) LOL She is due late February and Matthew and the new bub will be just 18 mnths apart. Matthew turns on next Saturday and Kimberley has organised a huge BBQ with just about the whole town invited!!!!! Matthew also took his first couple of steps on Monday and hasn't done it since. We thought he might walk before his first birthday , but not sure now.
The boys are all well and are all together this weekend at Noosa. The boat is finally going and Wink took it down so they could all go fishing.
Me, well I started my weight loss programme this week, so fingers crossed.
ON the scrapping front - have just completed challenge 2 with Country Papercraft's amazing journey. This has been such fun and thanks to my Scissor Sister Lee we are having a ball.

Excitement Plus!!!!!!!

2007-07-12T02:28:00.000-07:00

Well what can I say..........more big news on the scrapping front for me!!! I have been offered a full time Design Team position with Country Papercraft!! Marg and Mish (love you two forever) have welcomed me to their team and I can't wait to get started. I'm over the moon about working with them and Deb and the others guest DTers. Lots of friendly people there and they have a wonderful gallery and forum. Come on over and check things out for yourself!!!
Back to work for me this week as well, it is so easy to get used to school holidays. I am working 4 full days this term and I have had a change of classroom as well, which will be a challenge, but one I look forward to. I will be working with years 4,5,6 and 7, great bunch of kids and the teacher who happens to be the Principal is such a fantastic bloke. I still get Wednesdays off to look after Matthew so all is good.
It's only Thursday and I am so tired.........can't have my nanny naps in the afternoon!!!!! Looking forward to doing some scrapping this weekend as Dennis will be going to football without me. I will still be caring for the oldies next door and I can't leave them, so scrapping it is!!!! Here's one of my latest LO's that is featured in Country Papercrafts latest newsletter.........isn't he gorgeous?

Family coming home!!

2007-06-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

Our boys are coming home this weekend, so it will be a nice change to have all of us together. Kimberley turns 25 on Saturday and I have to make sure the boys buy her a pressie. She is the mother hen when it comes to their birthdays so if they don't get her something she will crack!!! Of course one has already put it on me.........you go buy something Mum!!!! No chance baby, it's your job!

Going to visit my Grandmother on Sunday morning and taking Matthew and Bella (her two Great Great Grandchildren) for a visit. Grandma has Alzheimers but she has her good days, so we hope Sunday morning will be one of them. She love babies so we hope the visit will cheer her.

It is really cold here this morning, but I made sure the fire was lit last night. I've been walking around the house dressed like an eskimo for 3 days freezing my @#@##$ off, so I demanded that wood be chopped or I was cooking! It worked and I can dress appropriately today LOL.

Major house cleaning must happen today as well. Michael (oldest DS) is bringing his new girlfriend home for the first time and boy did I get some instructions thrown at me over the phone. Make sure the kitchen is tidy and the toilet and bathroom are clean etc etc etc. He even rang Kimberley to make sure she made sure I had everything spic and span!!!!!! Some mothers do hav' em!! Nothing like trying to make a good impression. I had better make an effort LOL.

I'll update on Monday and let you know how things went!!!!!

Have done a few new LO's in the last couple of days........this one of Dennis and Matthew I made with scraps. I traced a chipboard flower and added the buds freehand and then cut it out of CS. Just a simple one, but loved the photo.

I got a "Layout of the Week"

2007-06-25T22:49:00.000-07:00

I recently joined My Scrapbook Nook, which is a US site and one of my LO's was featured as Layout of the Week. I am so excited to have my work featured on a site from overseas. A little happy dance happenin' here!!

Here's the LO.....

I'm on holidays!!

2007-06-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

It is so good working for Ed. Qld........I get all the school holidays!! Today is the first of two weeks.......sleeping in, scrapping, visiting friends, shopping, seeing more of Grandson Matthew, more sleeping in!!!!! Did some scrapping over the weekend (didn't really do much else!) I think I will do some more today as it is cold and overcast outside and not the going out sort of weather. Had a good weekend, went to Gympie to watch DS Liam play footy and apart from the cold it was good. He managed to get himself voted "Man of the Match" which was a boost as he has been injured for a number of weeks. Youngest DS Clinton turned 19 on Saturday........my baby is growing up!!! Here's a LO I did of him and his girlfriend.

Some exciting news........

2007-06-21T02:48:00.000-07:00

A little bit of "happy dancin'" happening in my house this week..............I am now a Design Team Member for Acacia Paper Craft ( A wholesale scrapping business here in Australia) Spoke to the lovely Nicole yesterday and she gave me a brief rundown on my role as a DT and I can't wait to get started. My LO's and OTP project that I did for them as a Guest Designer have been photographed and ready for use in advertising. I saw a couple of my designs and LO 's in their latest newsletter and it was quite surreal seeing my name accompanying the pictures. This is just another step in my goal to be published more often and have my work out there for others to see. When I learn how to upload pics here in this blog...........soon I hope, I will be able to show you some of my work. OK......... I just worked out how to upload pics!!!! Above are the two LO's I did as a guest designer for Acacia Paper Craft.

Second time lucky!!!

2007-06-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

This is my second attempt at creating my own personal blog.........I know, how hard can it be! For some reason I couldn't log on to my google account and.........well who cares. I'm here and lets move on!
Firstly, introductions are neccessary. My name is Sharon Suchoronczak, I am 45 years old and married to Dennis. We have 4 children, 25, 23, 21 and 19. We also have 1 very cute and handsome Grandson who at the moment is just 10 months old. Home is Murgon in SE Queensland Australia. I have lived here all my life and only now am I realizing what a great place it is to live.........funny I should say that, cause I have never lived anywhere else.........born and raised here! Sheltered life............maybe, but I am very happy. We are what people say, 2 hours from everywhere...........2 hours to Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, Toowoomba, Hervey Bay etc. , and only 3 to Brisbane. This area is fast becoming a very popular tourist region and many people are making the South Burnett their home.

About me...........well I am currently working as a Teacher Aide and have been doing this for the last 17 years. When the kids were at school is was the perfect job (as in hours) they came to school with me and then home again at 3pm. Last year I took a break and worked in LSS (local scrapbook shop) which was great, but now I am back doing what I know best. Talking about scrapbooking.........this is my creative outlet...........I love scrapbooking. You will probably realize this if you keep reading my blogs in the future. I am a member of a few scrapbooking sites here on the web and through these associations I have made many new and wonderful friends. I am in the process of becoming a Design Team member with an Australian wholesale scrapbooking company and all this should become official in the next few days.........very exciting and a wonderful opportunity to get my my work out there for others to see.

What else can I tell you? I love solitude, its when I work best. I'm not anti social, just love being by myself! I love music, not that I can sing or dance or even hum very well, just love the music up loud. I love most music and no particular style, I can listen to most anything.
I am a sensitive quiet person..........cry at the drop of a hat (mostly watching TV......everything is real on TV, LOL) I am the comedy during a TV show for DH and DS. As soon as something even remotely sad comes on, their attention turns to me and my sooky tears. It's just me........

Speaking of DH, together we own a 200hec grazing block for cattle, a car smash repair business and 1 rental home as well as our own home (mind you we don't really own all of these things, the bank does, but we are on our way) Life is a bit hectic, but hopefully will slow down in a few years when some of the debt is gone!!! Sigh! We have been married for 26 years and have weathered lots of ups and downs but nothing major. I suppose it has been relatively easy going, we are different, but soulmates. Isn't that the usual way it happens? We are very happy sharing our lives and love, but we have never let go of our independence, which I think is very important and has kept our bond very strong......lots of respect and communication. It's not always like that, we've had our share and I am usually the communicator and he shuts off. But isn't that typical of a lot of men? Somehow we have managed to have success in our marriage and in this day and age (I'm being very realistic here) that is rare. We have reared 4 great kids who are all different but we are proud of them all. Enough of all this D & M, we are happy!!!

I should get myself away from this computer now and get ready for work