Ready Set Scrap

Merry Christmas...

2011-12-25T03:46:00.011+11:00

With the silly season in full swing, its Christmas eve and I have 3 days off to spend some much needed time with my beautiful family.....YAYYYY!!!

So much has been happening and working almost full time in the lead up to Christmas I have not had a lot of time for scrapping....let alone sharing any work!! With my body clock still in night shift routine here I am at 4am wide awake and feeling like I should be working BLAGH!!!

But what better time to think about all my fellow blog followers and thank you all for taking the time over the last 12 months to pop past, catch up on my crazy life and to see what creations have been happening.

So to each and everyone of you, I wish you the very best for a wonderful Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Now since its Christmas I thought I would share my Christmas Angel. With thanks to the very talented Melanie Forbes, I had a go at making a Angel from an old dish washing liquid bottle....oh my god how simple and fun these are!! This one I made for my MIL for Christmas, she loves hand made things and with all the gifts I have made her over the years I am thinking I will have to pull out my cabinet making skills and pull together a display cabinet LOL!!

So now I present to you......Christmas Angel

Full Front View - Christmas Angel.

Top Close Up - Christmas Angel.

Back View - Christmas Angel

I also made a set of 3 little houses that stand in front of my Christmas Angel. Another fav of my MIL's is my little houses that I put together (she almost has a village now LOL!!) I used the matching papers from Kaiser that I used on the Christmas Angel.

Christmas Village - OTP Houses.

A layout I created in the start of December, I have had this pic for 12 months now and it was only by going through the last 12 months of pictures that I realised that I had not scrapped up these gorgeous Santa pics. The girls Brownie unit is lucky to have a very special Santa that takes the time to come past every year and see the girls and their families......So do you believe in Santa??

Do you believe in Santa?? - Layout - December 2011

And this very last layout I created was from another old pic I found of myself and my gorgeous hubby at my cousins wedding back in 2009.

Its rare for the hubby and I to get a pic together, so I was thrilled when I found this one.

Us - Layout - December 2011

So with that, I wish you all the very best for Christmas and New Year, and look forward to sharing much more with you all in the coming year.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

RAK winner...

2011-11-12T14:52:00.002+11:00

And the winner is.....

Come on down Michelle.
Michelle left me this lovely comment: i just started to follow your blog....i love all your creations!!

Michelle, if you could please contact me via the Twiddleybitz Ning, I will get your RAK off to you this week.

Cheers again to all who took part in the blog hop, it was a HUGE success and all the girls from Twiddley look forward to keeping you all inspired.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen M xox

Last Minute Hoppers...

2011-11-07T15:58:00.003+11:00

Just letting you all know that I will close off taking comments for the Twiddleybitz Blog hop at midnight tonight (AEST). The winner for my RAK will be posted on here and on the Twiddleybitz ning tomorrow lunch time.

Once the winner is announced, and if you are the lucky person, could you please message me on the Twiddleybitz Ning so your prize can be posted out.

Once again a very big thank you to all that took the time to stop by and leave some lovely words.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen M xox

TWIDDLEY HOP.....

2011-11-06T09:56:00.008+11:00

A very BIG Twiddley welcome to you all.

I see that you have all managed to hop your way over to my blog from the very talented Geraldine Pasinati and I look forward to sharing some of my recent projects with you all. Just remember that Geraldine's blog now has 2 secret words to collect, so be sure to keep your eyes open and grab that 2nd word!!

Firstly I am just giving you the "thumbs" up LOL, that due to a recent accident, I have broken my right thumb and the work that I wished to have finished and share with you.....is now sitting on the back burner (insert very sad face) until I get the use of my thumb back again.

Ok so onto some sharing of my recent work.....

I love this layout, it has A BEAUTIFUL picture of my daughter Matilda when she was 4 and its one of my all time fav pics of her.

Layout - little girl.

Layout - Handsome Prince

Another fav layout of recent, my little man Kai on his 5th Birthday. Gee he has grown so much since this pic was taken almost 2 years ago!!

This next one is my 2 older girls, likewise they have both grown so much since this pic was taken yet its another one of my favs!!

Layout - My Sweet Girls

Finally my latest off the page creation. I combined 12 ATC's (artist trading cards) with a Santa Sleigh and the large Easel. I love the Vintage Christmas theme and when I saw the latest Kaiser range they were perfect!!

And now finally to finish up a little sneak of some of the goodies that are in my RAK that is up for grabs. Be sure to leave a comment and I will place you all into the draw to win some gorgeous Twiddley and lots of other yummies.

So best you now be hopping along to the ever so talented Ann-Marie Cox, who I am sure will blow your minds with her amazing work. Also make sure that if you are in the Sydney area today then pop on down to the Papercraft show at Penrith and catch up with Nic & Andrew.

Until next time, take care of you and thanks again for hopping along on the Twiddleybitz blog hop. Mwah Karen M xox

RAKAMANIA, Blog Hop has started...

2011-11-04T09:52:00.002+11:00

Ok Ladies, the blog hop has offically started.

Be sure to pop on over to the Twiddleybitz Ning to start your weekend of blog hopping and remember to leave a comment as you go to be in the running to win yourself some gorgeous RAKS that are on offer. Oh and don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for the secret "WORDS"!!

So until Sunday when I post for my leg of the hop, take care of you and happy hopping LOL!!

Mwah Karen xox

Rakamania Blog Hop

2011-11-02T15:50:00.002+11:00

Starting on Friday the 4th of November the Twiddleybitz DT are having a bloghop.
And not just any ol' run of the mill bloghop.....

oh no...
uh uh!!

We are having a RAKAMANIA BLOG HOP!!

Each of the DT members are putting up a RAK for you to win and also showing you some gorgeous work on their blogs in the process.
It all starts on Friday November the 4th at 5pm (AEST)

So keep an eye out on the Ning for more details and the schedule, because that is where the

RAKamania Blog Hop will start!!

And not only will there be prizes from the DT members on the actual Hop, but there will also be prizes to be won on the Ning during the weekend and also on Facebook.

Like our page on Facebook to keep up to date with what is happening on the hop!!
Twiddleybitz on FaceBook

We also have prizes on offer for those of you going to the Paper Crafts Festival in Penrith on Sunday of that same weekend. Make sure to pop into the NIng to see how you can win some Twiddleybitz just for stopping by the Twiddleybitz booth at the Show and saying hello. :-)

We do hope you will join us for what we are sure will be a fun and inspiring and prize packed RAKamania Blog Hop...!

More details on the Ning soon!!

Twiddley In Sydney...

2011-10-20T13:30:00.002+11:00

For all you paper craft people out there in the Sydney area, be sure to pop on down to the Australian Paper Crafts Festival and check out the ever so amazing and talented Team from Twiddleybitz.

Andrew and Nic, will be there along with some of the DT girls, so be sure to pop past the stand and fill up your stash with lots of yummy Twiddley!!

Until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Lots of Twiddley....

2011-10-12T12:52:00.004+11:00

With School holidays over and my week of annual leave done and dusted it gave me the opportunity to scrap up a few more layouts!

Firstly a sneak peek of my next upcoming class.

To Reach For the Sky - Layout using lots of Twiddleybitz and designed perfectly for little boys. Teamed up with the Kaiser Little Toot range, this layout is bright and funky with lots happening on the page.

Class Details - Friday 21st October at 7:30pm.
Scrappers Delit'e - Rooftop, Shop 212 Upper Level Gladstone Park Shopping Centre.
To secure a spot be sure to call the shop on (03) 93351100.

These next two layouts I created were screaming Websters Pages. I have had the photos of my little man with Mums prized roses for over 12 months now, but just had to find the right papers to team them up with. Once again with lots of Twiddleybitz I created layouts that I am really happy with.

Nans Magical Garden - Layout.

The Flower of Love - Layout.

For full details of what I have used on these layouts be sure to pop on over to the Twiddleybitz Ning. Along with my work you will come across plenty of inspiration and projects that the amazing DT girls have created.

Another layout I created using more Twiddleybitz. I rarely scrap pictures of my wedding day, but just love this pic and the end result turned out better than I had hoped!

Our Special Day - Layout.

Well that's all for today, kids need to be picked up from school soon and I have a million other jobs that need attending too.

So until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Lots to Share....

2011-10-04T11:14:00.007+11:00

Lots to share, so lets get down to business.....

School holidays are in full swing and I have been fortunate enough to have a week off from work. I have been looking forward to spending some much needed time with the kids, and some much needed time at the scrap desk.

So firstly I will share whats been happening on the scrapping side....

40 Garden Tea invites for the lovely Nadine, She is getting married and I was approached to make these up. Simple but elegant, and she was so pleased with the finished product!! And keep a look out over the next coming weeks as I now have an order for her Hens Night Invitations!!

I have been creating for Twiddleybitz, and have to say a HUGE thanks to Nicole Skender (aka Mrs Boss Lady of Twiddleybitz) for the ever so gorgeous Twiddleybitz Tweenies she sent me. They are perfect size for ATC's. Stay tuned as these ATC's will become part of a OTP project.

12 Christmas ATC's

And I finally managed to finish off the remaining 3 layouts from Geraldine's class kit. I am so pleased with how they all turned out and it was nice to actually scrap and not have to think about how I am going to set it all out....follow the picture and tah dah the layouts are complete LOL!!

Memories - Layout

Backyard Summer Fun - Layout

Party - Layout

They are not all exactly the same, I have made a few changes to Geraldine's original layouts but am really happy with the end results.

So until next time....which will be later today when I have a heap more to share, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

2 Layouts...

2011-09-19T10:38:00.005+10:00

Finally some layouts to share....

These 2 layouts were created using a 5 layout class kit from the very talented Geraldine Pasinati. I was booked to attend her class, but due to the hubby and his work commitments, I was not able to attend however Geraldine put a kit aside for me.

This first layout - Our Special Day was created using gorgeous Websters Papers & some Twiddleybitz. I changed a couple of things (flowers etc) but apart from that I am totally in love with this layout of my beautiful niece Penelope.

Our Special Day - Layout September 2011

This next layout was created using more Websters Papers and with a couple of changes again, I scrapped another layout that I am totally in love with.

Layout - September 2011

Anyhow that's all for today, I still have 3 layouts to complete to finish off the kit.
So until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Here come's the bride....Twiddleybitz style!

2011-09-07T12:36:00.005+10:00

After endless hours of hand sewing and beading may I present to you.....

My bride to be Miss Charlotte....

I have had the Twiddleybitz form dress for a while now and just had to wait for the right moment of "MOJO" to arrive to bring it all together. I have seen many beautiful Miss Charlotte form dresses put together with paper and the likes, but wanted to make her a real bride with bridal tulle & delustered satin. I also wanted a stand for her, like a pedestal in a bridal shop where the train hangs & flows from the back of the dress to the floor, and what better to use than the Twiddleybitz cup cake for 1 stand. I have also incorporated some Twiddleybitz Nero into embellishments of her dress and on the table.

Front View - Miss Charlotte

** AWAY FOR PUBLICATION ***
BE BACK SOON!

Side View - Showing full length of train.

** AWAY FOR PUBLICATION ***
BE BACK SOON!

Detailed view of waist band and Twiddleybitz Nero.

** AWAY FOR PUBLICATION ***
BE BACK SOON!

Base view of cup cake table.

Now if you are one for a challenge, then head on over to the Twiddleybitz ning and check out the gallery for more photos for if you can name all the traditional something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue then I have a RAK up for grabs. Post your answers in the comments section and first to name all 4 correctly wins.

Anyhow that's all for now, so until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

More Twiddley goodness...

2011-09-02T13:08:00.006+10:00

Hello again, after a flat chat weekend/week that has just passed I thought I would share with you my latest work created for Twiddleybitz.

Paperific was a HUGE event for Twiddleybitz and I was lucky enough to run the make and take table on the Sunday. I have to say that I think every customer that passed through the stand was blown away with the amazing work that was on display by all the talented DT girls.

I created the following work:

New Little Princess - Layout

Up close of the horse & carriage

Once again more pics of my beautiful new niece Penelope Lee have been scrapped!

New Family Member - Layout

I also created some more ATC's for the show, unfortunately I forgot to photograph them before sending them on to Nic. There is 5 in this set and they had the Steam Punk theme happening.

Steam Punk ATC - this one belongs to a set of 5

And this last layout was created just for me, I could have sent it on the road with Nic, but have decided that I will likely re-create and use it for a upcoming class at Scrappers Delite.

Discover - Layout

So until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

A new baby...

2011-08-29T12:03:00.003+10:00

Hello All,
Without any further delay I present to you my beautiful new niece Penelope Lee Simmonds. Penelope arrived on August 5th 2011 weighing in at a healthy 6Lb 12Oz into the arms of her loving parents Bec (my sister) and Lee.
After what seemed like the impossible they were finally blessed with the most delightful and gorgeous baby girl.

Penelope Lee Simmonds.
05/08/2011

And this is the keepsake tin that I made for Penelope. Bec had seen many of these that I had made in the past and all she wanted was one of her own for the new bubs. I had great pleasure in making this and knowing that finally she had one.

Anyhow that is all for today, will be back in the next day or so to upload some scrapping work that I had completed for Paperific, along with some other bits and pieces.

Until next time take care of you.

Mwah Karen xox

"HUGE" scrapping update....

2011-08-19T11:22:00.007+10:00

Hello to all...

Many apologies to all that pop past my blog and see that nothing has been updated or added in so long, but as per always life is flat chat with heaps happening.

So to get back into the swing of things, I have a few projects to share that I created for Twiddleybitz. They attended the Perth Papercraft Expo in July and this is what I created:

ATC's - Set of 4 with a winged things theme.
Birds 1 & 2.

ATC's - Set of 4 with a winged things theme.

Butterflies 1 & 2

To create these ATC's I used the following products:

Bluebird Silhouettes - BIR006
Mini Multi Butterfly Pack (7) - BUT008
Fine Fern Leaves Assorted - FER002
Itty Bitty Alphas - ALPHA005 - Choc
Itty Bitty Alphas - ALPHA005 - Pink

The next 2 layouts are so different to each other. I thought that creating 2 totally different style layouts would show how versatile the ever so yummy Twiddleybitz chipboard is to use.

Tuppence for Pa.

For this layout I used the following products:
Butterfly Small pack (8 pack) - BUT006
Paris Lamp Post Short - GAt001
Fairy Temple Wrought Iron Border - BOR015

Tonka - build 'em' tough.

For this layout I used the following products:
Black Alpha's - ALP002
Bulldozer Silhouette Cut - TRA003

Winter Garden Shadow Box.

To create the shadow box I used the following products:
Shadow Box Plain - SBP003
Funky Attic Town House - FAH001
Hanging Sign Post Lantern - HLP001
Bluebirds Silhouettes - BIR006
Piece of fence from Arch Gate with Fence - GAT004.

So there you have it, I have quite a bit more to share but that will have to wait until after Melbourne's Paperific Expo. Speaking of which are you attending?? Be sure to get on down as Twiddleybitz will once again be show casing all the amazing DT work and plenty of Twiddley goodness on offer.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

June sketch challenge at Twiddleybitz...

2011-06-23T11:11:00.004+10:00

Morning all, have you been over to the Twiddleybitz Ning lately?? If not head on over to have a look at the gorgeous June Sketch challenge on offer.

I had so much fun creating this layout for the sketch challenge, and with a few minor changes and adding my own spin I created this....

Water Babies - June Sketch Challenge.

That's all for today, have heaps more to share over the next couple of days, so be sure to pop back and see what I have to reveal.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Time to reveal...

2011-06-16T11:37:00.008+10:00

Hey Everyone, after some sleepless nights, many hours of hard work and the Brisbane Expo all over I can reveal to you my latest Twiddleybitz projects. Everything was secret squirrel with only a couple of sneak peek pics that I was allowed to share, but now I bring to you.....

12x12 Floating Frame and Funky Church.
Otherwise know as "Timeless Memories"

Winged Heart Shadow Box - Small

Matching pair of 6x6 Shadow Boxes and House Kits

Altered Dress Shop - Above

Family Home - Above

I also completed 2 boys layouts for the Expo and created:

Total Madness - Boys Layout

Go Higher - Boys Layout.

I am also super excited to share with you that I have been selected as the Featured DT Designer for this week on the Twiddleybitz ning site. My Floating Frame with the Funky Church is on the Home page along with the product listing should you wish to recreate this OTP project.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.
Mwah Karen xox

Quick Share...

2011-06-13T16:27:00.002+10:00

Hey Everyone, many apologies for not getting on here sooner but as per usual life has been flat chat with heaps happening.

I am pleased to advise that this week I will finally be able to reveal the full pics of all my Twiddleybitz DT projects that I was working on for the Brisbane Expo.

But for today, I have a layout that I created this weekend using some Twiddleybitz samples. Another pic of the girls on their recent trip to Queensland was perfect for the papers and for the awesome chippie that Nic sent over.

Close up - The Girls Trip

Full Layout - The Girls Trip

Anyhow that is all for today, but be sure to check back this week for the full reveal of all my latest and greatest DT work with Twiddleybitz.

Until then take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Sneak Peeks....

2011-05-25T15:19:00.006+10:00

With deadlines fast approaching, I have been scrapping my little heart out for Twiddleybitz. They are off to the Scrapbook & Papercraft Expo & Convention in Brisbane on June 11-13 and some of my work will be on display alongside the very talented design team ladies of Twiddleybitz.

So for the moment I can only share a couple of sneak peeks, but if you are in the area make sure you pop in and see all the amazing work and the ever so lovely Mr & Mrs Twiddley.

Sneak Peek - Floating frame

Sneak Peek - 6x6 Shadow Box

Sneak Peek - Layout

Sneak Peek - Layout

That's all for today, so until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

More to share....

2011-05-14T12:36:00.003+10:00

Hello again, once again another flying post with a quick share of some very yummy Twiddleybitz that I got to play with.

The new Ornate Flourish Name Kit was so simple to create, with everything you need in the kit they take no time at all and look fantastic. Perfect for scrap days or retreats where you need to remember all the wonderful names of ladies, then this kit is a winner. Also be sure to check out the Twiddleybitz Ning for all the other amazing name kits they have put together.

This next layout I created using Twiddleybitz Memories word, butterfly from the assorted butterfly pack, and the ever so yummy fern leaves. Be sure to ask your Local Scrap Shop if they have them....if not make a request (wink, wink)!!

Close up of butterfly and fern leaves.

Thats all for today....I have a deadline fast approaching and need to get scrapping. Until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Quick Update...

2011-05-11T14:35:00.004+10:00

Just a quick update to share with you all. I have been extremely busy with work and the kids are now back in full swing of School and Kinder and all the other extra activities that I have not had a lot of time to sit and scrap.
However I have been creating for Twiddleybitz, but unfortunately I can not share anything just yet, but rest assured once I have been given the go ahead I will have plenty to share.

This first layout is one I completed for Twiddleybitz, using the new Happy Easter Train, Itty Bitty Alphas and Butterflies. I wanted to create a bright fun layout and step away from what seems to be my current style of vintage/distressed.

Close up of train.

This next sneak peek is for my upcoming class at Scrappers Delite this Friday Night (13th May 2011). Spaces are filling fast so be sure to contact the girls at the shop on (03) 9335 1100 to secure your spot.

Anyhow that is all for today, so until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Time is passing....

2011-04-25T04:55:00.002+10:00

Time is passing so quickly at the moment, that it only feels like yesterday that we celebrated the arrival of the New Year.

I had grand plans with the school holidays to get my scrapping on....only to realise that the kids go back to school on Wednesday!! ARRRRGHHH where has 2 weeks gone???

I have managed to get some scrapping done, but not all can be shared at this stage. With the layout below its the Mother's Day challenge over at Twiddleybitz Ning. Make sure you take the time to check out the Ning site as its always a hive of activity and there is inspiration galore!!

Anyhow that is all I have to share at the moment, its 5am in the morning here and my body is not coping with the fact that I am not working (I work night shift 4 nights a week) so I am going to make another coffee and maybe shuffle some papers on my scrap desk to see if anything comes of being "WIDE" awake!!

Until next time take care of you, and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT.....

2011-04-13T16:58:00.003+10:00

Hey Everyone, finally I can reveal my "BIG" news......

DRUM ROLL PLEASE.......

Without further a do, I am so excited to announce that I have joined the Design Team at Twiddleybitz, yes that's right I made the cut!!

After receiving an email that they were advertising for new Design Team members in Victoria, I thought what the hell, what have I got to loose?? So after some careful consideration of what layouts/OTP projects to send in, I got to sending my email and thought what will be will be!!

And to my amazement/excitement I received an email from Nicole with the BEST news possible. So stay tuned everyone as my blog will be back in full swing very soon with lots of sharing of all my Twiddleybitz projects and also make sure you get the chance to pop on over to the Twiddleybitz ning site and check out all the amazing work from the DT girls....you will blown away!!

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

2011-04-11T00:38:00.003+10:00

Hey Everyone,

As promised I said that I would get around to updating and making changes to my ever so neglected blog, but its taking me longer than I had planned!!
Life as usual is flat chat and Easter is almost upon us, but I have grand plans to spend a day or two over the Easter break to finish making the changes and getting back into the swing of blogging.

So to keep you popping past and seeing where I am in the world of scrapping I have a couple of sneak peeks to share. They are all for the shop (aka Scrappers Delite) where I am teaching every Friday night. If you are in the area and see something that catches you eye, then be sure to contact the girls at the shop on (03) 9335 1100 to enquire further.

Shadow Box and Card for Mothers Day
Class is being held on: Friday 6th May 2011 at 7:30pm

And this next sneak peek is for my class coming up this Friday night at 7:30pm.
Bookings are essential so be sure to give the girls at the shop
a call on (03) 9335 1100

Anyhow that is all for now, but be sure to check back soon as I have some VERY EXCITING NEWS that I am hanging to share.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Time to update and start blogging again!!

2011-04-01T07:57:00.003+11:00

Hello Everyone,

My sincere apologies for neglecting my blog, but stay tuned as I am in the process of changing some design elements and bringing a newer and brighter blog to you all.

Take care of you and until next time, happy scrapping!!

Karen xox

Sketch 210 at Scrapbook Challenges...

2010-07-29T09:53:00.004+10:00

Sketch 210 has be revealed and again I can share another layout that I am really happy with!! Pamela's work behind the scenes on creating these amazing sketches for us all to use is the perfect way to get the "MOJO" happening. I love that this sketch has a basis for numerous pictures to be scrapped and being a scrapbooker that usually uses only 1 or 2 pictures on a layout, scrapping up this sketch proved easier that I thought.

So what are you waiting for....get your "MOJO" happening and start creating. Make sure that you remember to post your layouts on Scrapbook Challenges for us all to see.

Sketch 210 - Single 12x12 Layout.

Sketch 210 - Double 12x12 Layout.

Disney On Ice.

Thats all for today.

So until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

A big catch up...

2010-07-25T03:26:00.009+10:00

Once again I have neglected my blog and have soooo much to share. Life is just soooo busy at the moment. With the kids back in full swing at school, the hubby busy in the shed with the Torana's and working full time, me doing everything like all Mums do, I never seem to be left with any time to do "ME" things....like update my blog!!

Anyhow I will start with some pics of the kids from today. Kai's little friend from school had a pool party and all the kids were invited, thankfully I had the small camera on hand as I managed to grab some great little snaps. Here is a couple of my fav's.....

Ellie sporting her funky swimming cap and ever soooo cheeky attitude. Kai & Caitlan enjoying the warmth of the water (its the middle of winter here) and Matilda taking great care of her baby sister Ellie in the water.

Onto my scrapping....

I have lots that I need to share, although am limited as to what I share due to some layouts have not been revealed yet and other projects that are just not finished. It seems to be the norm of late....lots of unfinished projects that keep getting pushed to the back of the desk and left untouched. I think I need to sort my daily routine out and try to make more of an effort with some much needed dedicated "SCRAP" time.

A sneak peak of my layout based on Sketch 210 at Scrapbook Challenges. Check back on Tuesday for the reveal of the full layout.

Below is sketch 209 that is currently up at Scrapbook Challenges and here is my layout based on the sketch.

Sketch 209 - Scrapbook Challenges.

Dress Up Day - DT Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 209

And finally a pic of my gorgeous Sister and myself that I wanted to share. I was lucky enough to spend a couple of days over the last school holidays with Bec and my gorgeous nephews. This would have to be one of the best pics that I have of us together....and once again when I get a chance I will get to scrapping a layout with it.

Anyhow that's all for today, so until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Sketch 208 at Scrapbook Challenges

2010-07-14T16:30:00.003+10:00

Hello Everyone,

A flying update today, time is just not in my favor at the moment, but oh well I will do a proper catch up soon.

Sketch 208 is up at Scrapbook Challenges and below is my layout based on the sketch.

Well thats all for today.

Until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Holidays are almost over.....

2010-07-08T15:55:00.005+10:00

WOW....almost at the end of week 2 of the holidays and I feel like I could do with another week!!

Time is just flying at the moment, and I had grand plans to scrap most of it away, but its only really been this week that I have had a chance to sit and scrap. I have soooo many projects on the go at the moment that sharing them is a "no, no" until next week. I can however share with you the current sketch that is up at Scrapbook Challenges. All the DT girls have created some amazing work for this sketch and all the other challenges that are up on offer are also very inspiring!!

Single 12x12 layout - Sketch 207

Double 12x12 layout - Sketch 207

Just the one thing to share so far this week, and its a sneak peak of my layout created using sketch 208 at Scrapbook Challenges. Be sure to pop past again next week when I can reveal the full layout.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Twiddleybitz 12x12 Shadow Box...

2010-06-29T15:58:00.002+10:00

Hello, Just a flying post to share with you all the Twiddleybitz 12x12 Shadow Box that I completed for Sharon & Fiona at Scrappers D'elite. After lots of messy play with paint, crackle, UTEE, inks & glimmer mists I am really happy with the end result. I love the vintage/old look at the moment and am totally loving the use of material and lace on both my layouts and OTP.

To create the Shadow Box I used the Twiddleybitz picket fence, tree & Family word, Prima papers for the background and left over scraps of Prima papers to make the 2 large Dodgy flowers (click the link and it will take you to Mistra's blog where the step by step instructions can be located under PDF Tutorial) Prima lettering, Prima pearl flourish, Kaiser pearl strips, Green Tara lace & muslin cotton material.

So if you want to get messy and have a go at creating this, leave me a comment and I will let you know when the class at Scrappers D'elite will be running.

Anyhow I must fly, its School holidays here and have heaps happening.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

OTP with a sneak peak....

2010-06-28T11:29:00.004+10:00

As promised here is some of my OTP work that I have been happily creating. I am totally loving the break away from scrapping traditional layouts and getting messy with OTP.

UTEE, glimmer mists, embossing powders, paint, crackle, you name it I have been playing with it and creating such a mess in the process....but mess is good, it means you have been creative LOL!!

Fiona & Sharon at Scrappers D'elite have kept me well supplied with heaps of Twddleybitz products and I have had a blast creating for them. If you are in the area, then pop in for a look at what I have on display at the shop (photo's just don't do these things justice). Scrapper's D'elite is located at Upper Level Suite 212, Cnr of Gladstone Drive and Mickelham Road, Gladstone Park.

Twiddleybitz Assessory Holder and Trinket Box.

The next pic is a sneak peak of a 12x12 Shadow Box that is almost finished. Once again lots more yummies from Twiddleybitz and heaps of mess created in the process.

Anyhow that's all for today, will be back soon to show the completed Shadow Box.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Sketch 204 & 205

2010-06-28T01:08:00.008+10:00

Hello Everyone......my brain is like a fog at the moment, totally forgetting everything and here is a classic example, my poor neglected blog needed to be "UPDATED"!!!!

Anyhow here is the latest 2 sketches on offer at Scrapbook Challenges. Once again Pamela offers sketches that are so versatile, and the DT team offers endless inspiration with all the different layouts produced.

This is my layout based on Sketch 205 below.

Friends, DT Scrapbook Challenges - June 2010

Sketch 205 - Scrapbook Challenges.

Sketch 204 - Scrapbook Challenges.

I promise that I will update again soon. I have heaps of OTP that I wish to share with you all, so keep your eyes peeled.

Anyhow until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Flying update.....

2010-06-13T10:33:00.004+10:00

Hey Everyone, not a lot to share but a quick update.....life is flat chat and soooo much is happening that I am struggling to find 5 minutes for myself!!! The Internet was also slowed due to the hubby going a bit crazy with his downloading, hence nothing being loaded to here as it was taking forever.

Anyhow this is the current sketch on offer at Scrapbook Challenges. Pamela continues to provide amazing sketches that are so versatile. Make sure you pop over and check out all the amazing DT work that the girls are producing.

Sketch 203.

And here is a little sneak peak of a layout that I have done based on Sketch 205. I am really looking forward to sharing this layout with you all, but for the moment its just a sneak!!

Well that's all for today, hoping to be back later or tomorrow to update you all properly.
So until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Update and Sketch 202

2010-06-02T09:47:00.005+10:00

Hello Everyone,

Can you believe that we are at the halfway mark....how did June come around soooo quickly??? Time just seems to be flying at the moment and I feel like I have been in hibernation and missed the first half of the year LOL!!!

Today is just a brief update, the amazing Pamela has wowed everyone again with another inspiring Sketch (Sketch 202) and below is my layout based on the sketch. Make sure you also pop over to Scrapbook Challenges and have a look at all the other happenings over there. Another reminder....if you have a go at any of the challenges, make sure you load them into the gallery for your chance to be in the running for the monthly sponsor prizes on offer.

Sketch 202 - Single 12x12 layout.

Sketch 202 - Double 12x12 layout.

Sisters - Layout based on Sketch 202.

I also have another 2 layouts that I wish to share. After some recent discussions with the Sharon from Scrappers D'elite these 2 layouts will be up in the shop for anyone interested in doing them as a class. Using the latest Kaiser range, they are a simple and easy layout.

This first layout uses nothing more than the Boys Kaiser papers, some white card stock, Kaiser alphabet stickers and a black gel pen.

Grub.

And this last layout is using the Girls Kaiser papers. I loved creating this layout as once again I have used very little yet feel that the layout is complete with what is on it.

To create this layout I used, Kaiser Girls papers, Kaiser Bling, Thickers alaphas and a black gel pen. The flowers and birds are all from the pattern paper and are a great way to dress up a layout without the added cost of extra embies.

The Age of Innocence.

And on a final note, make sure you keep checking back here as I will be sharing a lot more now that I am "SMOKE" free. I have finally kicked the habbit and have vowed to keep my hands busy by creating lots more.

So until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Sketch, Layout & Sneak Peak...

2010-05-20T09:46:00.006+10:00

Looking for some inspiration??? Then head on over to Scrapbook Challenges where there is inspiration a plenty.
The latest sketch is now up for you to tackle and the DT challenges are also a great way to get you motivated.

Below is sketch 200 for the single 12x12, but if you have more pics and need a sketch that will allow you to use up all those pics that can't be left out then try the double 12x12.

Sketch 200 - Single 12x12

Sketch 200 - Double 12x12

Here is my take on Sketch 200. A simple layout but I finally managed to scrap these pics from our family day out to Puffing Billy.

Railway - DT Layout, Sketch 200

And to finish up just a little sneak peak of a layout that I created for an upcoming sketch. The sketch is still a week or 2 away, so make sure you check back here to see the full layout revealed.

Anyhow that's all for today, until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Exciting News...

2010-05-15T12:37:00.003+10:00

Hello Ladies,

I am just a little excited to announce that I will be running an OTP class at our LSS in June. The lovely Fiona and Sharon of Scrappers D'elite, have asked me to come on board as new member and teach the below shadow box by Twiddleybitz. Make sure you pop in to Scrapper D'elite and have a look at the shadow box on display and book yourself a spot.

In saying the above I wish to send the biggest thanks out to Mistra Hoolahan. Mistra never seems to let anyone down when it comes to inspiration and her amazing work never disappoints. So Mis, I am forever thankful to you for everything you have taught me, but most of all for your friendship and support xox.

Also have you checked out Scrapbook Challenges??? Sketch 199 is currently up and below is my layout based on the sketch. Make sure you pop in to check out the sketch and all the other amazing challenges that are on offer.

Anyhow that is all for now, have to clear my scrap desk and see what inspiration comes my way.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Happy Mothers Day...

2010-05-09T22:42:00.010+10:00

Happy Mothers Day.....

To be woken by the excitement of 4 happy little faces, was the best start to the day. The kids were bright eyed and bushy tailed this morning when I was showered with special little gifts and breakfast in bed.

The hand made cards and gifts are priceless and I could not have been a prouder Mum. With the daily trials of ups and downs that life brings, nothing can compare to the love I get from those 4 beautiful babies of mine!!

We spent the day in the country at my Mum's place, and the kids were just as proud to give Nan her special hand made presents as I was to get mine. After lunch we took a walk to the local Skateboard Park where the kids just love it. Scooters, skateboards and lots of laughter resulted in the best opportunity to get some new pics of the kids.

Cate and Tilly posed for a pic and with a little play in lightroom, look at the results....I love these pics!! Might have to see about getting these printed onto Canvas and hung in the lounge room.

Kai was moving too quick and sooo not in the mood for pics. Totally enthralled in riding his skateboard I only managed to grab the odd snap shot.

Miss Ellie....What a laugh she was. Taking the safe approach of riding the skateboard sitting on her bottom was hilarious. Numerous stacks did not deter her determination to keep going, and she got there in the end!!

My Sister was also down to see Mum today, so all the grand kids were together and a perfect opportunity to grab a family shot. Ellie however is absent from this pic as she decided that riding the skateboard was more fun.

For Mum this Mothers Day, I was struggling for ideas of what to get her and $$$ are tight so I thought I would make her present and card. I could have purchased something small from the shop, but the cost of time and love that I put into making this present really made her day.

I could have gone with the traditional Happy Mothers Day on the front of the card, but I wanted to just say thanks. Mum has been my rock and support in so many ways, that saying Thank You was more appropriate.

I decided on a shadow box from Twiddleybitz and set to making it. After playing with different ideas and designs this is what I came up with...

I must also make mention that a lot of the inspiration behind this came from the ever so talented Mistra Hoolahan. Her blog provides the kick start to get the "MOJO" happening and I personally wish to thank her....Thanks Mis xox

So to all the Mums out there in this big wide world, I hope your Mothers Day has been filled with much love and laughter.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

New peak from Sketch 199

2010-05-07T15:55:00.002+10:00

Just thought I would share a small sneak peak of my layout based on Sketch 199 by the very talented Pamela at Scrapbook Challenges.

The new sketch is due to go up next week, so make sure you pop past to see the full layout and the new Sketch (199).

Anyhow that's all for today, so until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Sketch 198 and NSD Winners

2010-05-06T17:05:00.002+10:00

Hello Everyone,

So did you all enjoy the NSD blog hop at Scrapbook Challenges?? I know I did, and have to say that I am blown away with the level of talent that is on offer to the scrapping world. Thanks to the blog hop, I have book marked soooo many new blogs to read and be inspired by.

Now did any of you take part in the NSD blog hop and challenges that were on offer?? If so here is the link to see if you were one of the lucky winners.

Pamela once again has provided a fantastic new sketch - Sketch 198. Be sure to have a go and get your creative "MOJO" happening!

That's all for today, until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Its time to start hopping....

2010-04-30T23:00:00.014+10:00

Yes that's right...its time to start hopping!!

Are you searching for a way to spend your weekend?? Then look no further.....

Scrapbook Challenges is running the NSD blog hop this weekend and there is inspiration a plenty and some very yummy prizes up for grabs.

The blog hop is starting off with Pamela, and by following all the links you will reach the final destination of Brynn's blog.
(in total there is 20 blogs to hop to)

Starting off with this 12x12 sketch by the ever so talented Pamela its sure to get your "MOJO" happening.

Or if you are looking for the right sketch to complete a double 12x12 then feel free to set yourself the challenge and have a go.

Below is my layout based on the single 12x12 sketch. I have had these pics printed for some time, but needed a sketch that would allow me to use all 3 pics to tell the story. Thanks to Pamela and her creative sketch....tah dah I finally scrapped them.

So what else is in store for all you scrappy people....

Well take a look at the very yummy prizes up for grabs.

For simply leaving a comment on ALL the blogs on this hop, you will be entered into the draw to win this lovely April Scarlet Lime kit. I would soooo love this kit in my stash!!!

And for having a go at the sketch and then loading it into the gallery at Scrapbook Challenges, you could win this ever soooo yummy Fancy Pants kit.

But wait....there's more!!

For simply joining Scrapbook Challenges you have the chance to win these stunning flower packs by Prima.

And for inviting all your scrapping friends to join Scrapbook Challenges you also go into the draw for some more flower packs by Prima.

And now to announce my grand news
Drum roll please.....

I have joined the Design Team at Scrapbook Challenges. Yes I have plunged back into the Design Team world and am really looking forward to this new venture/chapter in my scrapping life. Becoming a Design Team member gives me the opportunity of working along side a group of very talented people and the opportunity to explore many new challenges.

So what are you waiting for....Come on over and join in the fun of great challenges and show us all what you have to offer as a Scrapbook Challenges member.

So where to now......

Hop on over to Annie's blog where inspiration is a plenty and the hopping continues!!

Until next time, take care of you and happy hopping.

Mwah Karen xox

Twiddley Bitz Shadow Box.

2010-04-27T10:25:00.008+10:00

Just thought I would share a couple of pics of a Twiddleybitz Shadow box that I completed last weekend. Thanks to Mistra's blog, I was in awe of her amazing work and it gave me the inspiration that I needed to get things happening.

I also discovered a link on her blog for making Dodgy Flowers. They are soooo easy and the step by step instructions provide simple clear directions to making that perfect rough dodgy looking flower.

Products used: Twiddlybitz Shadow Box, Jo Sonja's background paint and crackle medium, Prima Crystal/Bling Flourish, mixed flowers, Kaiser Bling, Tim Holtz Grunge board wings, Angelina fibres, Hambly bird cage Sticker, Dodgy Flower, High Tea Collection pattern papers.

Twiddleybitz Shadow Box.

Close up of inside of Shadow Box.

Close up of Dodgy Flower.

Anyhow that's all for now, so until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Change is almost here...

2010-04-22T12:53:00.020+10:00

I am back.....

However with soooo much to share & me making changes to my blog
I thought it would be best if I just do a quick month by month run through.
Don't want you all falling asleep trying to catch up on the last 6 months!!

So where do I start?? hmmm maybe back in October where
I left you all last time...

So since October, I managed to have another layout published
in Scrapbooking Memories.
This time it was featured in a theme gallery (Grunge) which is
another proud scrapping moment for me.

November passed in a blur, obviously not a lot exciting happened!

December saw my 31st Birthday, Caitlan's 8th Birthday,
Mum's 58th Birthday, Matilda's 7th Birthday, Christmas Day,
my nephew Jack's 10th Birthday....then New Years.
Talk about festive madness in our household, and not a lot
of time for much else...especially scrapping!!

Caitlan's 8th Birthday - December 2009

Matilda's 7th Birthday - December 2009

January, bought the New Year in and School Holidays for the kids.
My 2 other nephews also celebrated birthdays, and then things finally
started to settle down for the remainder of the holiday season.

February....what a month!!
We were the unfortunate victims of a nasty hit and run car accident.
My poor Kia Carnival was beyond repair and so started the 12 long
weeks of walking everywhere!!

Kai started School....yes my little man is now in Prep, leaving
his baby sister as the only one left at home with me.
Ellie celebrated her 4th Birthday...She is growing up way to fast and it
makes me wonder where has the time gone???

Ellie's 4th Birthday - February 2010

March was a tough month, the death of Granny Basson was hard.
The kids have never had to deal with a death in the family, and Cate & Tilly
both took the news really hard. However in saying this, I could not be
more proud of all 4 kids at the Funeral, they were so well behaved
and seemed to understand that it was a time to have best manners.

I did manage to get some scrapping done through all the madness of
such a busy life (please note the layouts listed below have been created
during the last 6 months and have not been shared on my blog).

Fashion Diva - January 2010

Backyard Bird Watch - January 2010

A Year at Kinder {09} - January 2010

The Funny Moments - January 2010

Perfect - January 2010

The Right Moment - February 2010

Angel Eyes - February 2010

Hunt - April 2010
Challenge at Scrapbook Challenges - Spring Theme.

Sneak Peak - April 2010

Layout to be shared at a later date...unless you are a friend on facebook and
have been lucky enough to see the completed layout!!

April....well here we are, 6 months has passed, heaps more has happened
although its likely that I just can't remember it all, but this month
bought the arrival of my new wheels. The wait is over and I am now the
proud new owner of a 2008 Holden Captiva!!

So thats a wrap, will promise to keep you all updated as life rolls on.

Until next time, take care of you and Happy Scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Welcome Back.....

2010-04-18T01:05:00.002+10:00

OMG I can not believe that I have let 6 months pass and have posted....zilch, zero, zip!!

Stay tuned as my terribly neglected blog will receive a much needed overhaul
and I will be back into the swing of commitment.

Until next time (which will not be in another 6 months) take care of you and happy scrapping

Mwah Karen xox

I've been published....

2009-10-19T16:52:00.006+11:00

I am soooo excited to announce that I have finally been published....

After years of submitting work to Scrapbooking Memories, it was only by chance that I sent this layout through.
With $$ being tight, I did not have enough money to purchase the current magazine, so I thought I would get my mag fix via the Internet. While browsing the web site I thought hmmm I wonder what submission themes they are asking for?? As luck would have it, I had a layout that fitted one of the themes so I thought why not....
After thinking nothing more about it, it wasn't until I got an email back asking for the layout to be sent to Sydney for further consideration.
With the layout carefully package, I sent it off and waited, and waited, and waited!! After about 6 weeks the layout was returned to me and again...nothing!!
So I thought oh well, maybe one day I would make the mag....but then that exciting email reached me saying....We are pleased to inform you that your layout will be published (insert happy dance here).

So here is the front cover of the issue that my layout is in....whats even better is that the current issue is the Scrapbooking for a Cause issue (breast cancer). Its on sale for 3 months, so make sure you grab a copy as 10c from every copy sold is being donated to this wonderful cause.

Here is my layout with my name....(I am sooo excited they spelt it right)

Caitlan was soooo excited to see her picture in the mag, she is even taking the original layout to school with the mag for show and tell.
I have to admit that being published is one of my proudest scrapping moments!!!

Onto a couple of layouts that I wish to share. Firstly I managed to scrap those gorgeous pics I had of Caitlan and Grace. The journaling was sooo hard. I have attached a journal card to the back of the layout as it turned out to be more of a letter to Grace than it being what the photos were about.

Through the eyes of a child with Autism.

This next layout is another one that I managed to pull together over the weekend for a challenge at Home & Scrapped. I love these pics of my gorgeous girls and just had to play with them in lightroom....then scrap them!!

Girls I love u both!!

Anyhow that's all for now, kids need some dinner.
until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.
Mwah Karen xox

My week of madness.....

2009-10-19T09:39:00.012+11:00

What a week.....

From the 5th -12th October it was total madness. So much went on in this time that I think this will be the biggest blog share of pics ever....hence why I am only updating now....its taken another week to get over it all!!!

Starting off with my beautiful niece Grace....
Another round of surgery for her neck was needed to help release the pressure of the original graft. She is such a brave girl and I am proud to say that the surgery went really well, but its now a waiting game to see how things have gone. She is in hospital today to see the surgeons and get the results. Praying that all is OK for this gorgeous girl!!!

Grace - Photo taken a week before her surgery!!

Matilda finally managed to loose her 2 front teeth!! Through all the madness the tooth fairy still delivered the $$ and I could stop stressing as to thinking that they were never going to fall out. Although she did have a little help with the removal of one of the teeth....her cousin Mitchell decided that a cuddle was in order for her, but managed to punch her in the mouth when wrapping his arms around her.....bye, bye front tooth, hello no Dentist bill ROFL!!!

Matilda and her glam toothless smile!!!

Close up....adult teeth just visible!!

Michael and I shared our 5th Wedding Anniversary on October 9th, and what a way to celebrate!! MEGADETH & SLAYER concert......yes I can all see you going OMG, but the tickets were a lovely gesture from our very dear friend Barry Spam-Burger (aka Bernie). Michael has been a HUGE fan of MEGADETH & SLAYER for years, but I have to admit, SLAYER really did my head in!! It was a fab night out....no children to look after and we even managed to have a romantic dinner at McDonalds ROFL!!!

Michael & I at MEGADETH & SLAYER.

MEGADETH in concert!!

After our night out to see MEGADETH, Mick woke to celebrate his 35th Birthday. He had the best sleep in, as no children were here to jump all over him, but in saying that it wasn't the same as past years where little excited faces are beaming at you and screaming HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
We did however manage to get all the kids home so that cake and candles could be shared.

Mick blowing out his birthday candles.

Mick with the 4 ferrals after cake and presents!!

The night of Micks birthday was another concert. I managed to purchase 2 tickets to go and see MARILYN MANSON....OMG what a freak he is!!!
His concert was fantastic, and he is such a crowd pleaser. Mick and I had a fantastic time, but I have to admit, that I was beginning to feel the effects from the concert the night before.

Mick and I at MARILYN MANSON

MARILYN MANSON in concert.

And to finish off Miss Ellie has finally had her 1st lot of surgery on her ears. However since the surgery, she has already had a nasty infection in her right ear, and has proved to be the most stubborn child when it comes to taking antibiotics. Its starting to clear up now, but a trip back to the specialist this week will prove weather the grommet is still in place or if we have to go back in and have it done all over again.

I have noticed some small changes since the surgery, but I did learn that she hates the wind with a passion. So a new head band and beanie with some cotton wool seems to do the trick, but the head band is the best thing ever. It allows you to shower/bath her and not have the worry that water is going to get into her ears. Its also a must now when going out....she stops at the door and will ask for it to be put on.
So fingers crossed that from now on its all positive and good news!!

Miss Ellie and her spunky head band!!

Well that's all from me for this post. I have some exciting news to share later today and a couple of layouts. But its almost time to do the kinder run for Kai, so I best be off.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

Precious Moment.....

2009-10-08T00:11:00.004+11:00

I just wanted to share these stunning pictures......they tell such an amazing story!!

My beautiful niece Grace who most of you may know is Autistic, allowed this precious moment to be captured and recorded as such a "HUGE" break through in her communication.

As seen, Grace allowed Caitlan into her world and was sooooo wired to her. Caitlan who is such a gorgeous soul, talks to and respects Grace as a normal child....she is her cousin, so why should she treat her differently??

After these pictures were taken Grace has taken to saying Yove Cate (which in turn means Love Cate). For Grace & Cate, this is such a big milestone in both their worlds, I just hope that many more of these precious moments can be caught and shared with us all.

So to you our gorgeous Grace....Kazz is sooo proud of the amazing milestone that you allowed myself and Cate to be part of.
Continue to grow and show all out there in this big wide world that you are one amazing and special girl.

Until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen M xox

The Reveal.....

2009-10-01T13:35:00.002+10:00

The time has come to reveal my new venture....

After becoming a DT member for Totally Addicted to Sketch, the very talented and amazing Shell announced that she would be closing the site down if unable to hand over ownership.

With careful consideration, I offered to take over the site and keep it up and running.
The amount of hard work and endless hours that Shell poured into getting it up and running, was something that I could not bare the thought of. It could all have been gone with the push of a button!!

So to all you scrapping people out there that take the time to read my personal blog, please take the time to check out Totally Addicted to Sketch. Its going to remain a fun filled blog with monthly sketches and blog candy.

With an amazing Design Team, I'm sure they will bring endless inspiration, and a style that is unique to themselves. Michell LaPoint Rydell and Melinda Spinks have offered to stay on board as DT and I will also have great pleasure in announcing that Mistra Hoolahan and Selena Pullar are the latest new recruits.

So let the good times roll and here's to hoping that I see you check out my new site.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen M xox

New Changes....

2009-09-29T12:17:00.002+10:00

Just a quick post to let you all know that Ready Set Scrap is under maintenance!! Its well overdue for a make over and with the kids on school holidays, I can actually manage the time to sit here and make all those changes!!

Also on another note, I will reveal my new venture that I have taken on. For all that are on Facebook you will already know of this, but stay tuned for the reveal that will come later this week.

Thats all for now, take care of you and until next time, happy scrapping!!

Mwah Karen M xox

School holidays, layout sharing and a quick update...

2009-09-24T12:03:00.012+10:00

Here we are half way through week 1 of the school holidays and the kids are all suffering from cabbin fever (stuck inside with crappy weather). One day its lovely, the next day its terrible.....and "ME" well I am over the holidays already hehehe!!!

I have however managed to scrap another couple of layouts (the joy of holidays, once the kids are asleep I can scrap away in the peace and quiet till all hours of the morning). The first layout of Ellie and Matilda came together really easily. Going back to my comfort zone of bright, some doodling and white CS I am happy with the end result. Poor Ellie has the worst fear of Dog's...but I managed to capture these precious pics of her with Matilda and Mum's gorgeous Whippet Jazz. Jazz is the most gentle natured dog, she loves nothing more than basking in the sun and having the kids poor all the affection they can into her. With some encouragement from Matilda, Ellie managed to sit for some time and offer her gentle hand to Jazz for a pat. I was soooo excited that she managed to do this without the usual ritual of screaming in absolute fear.

If you believe in yourself you will overcome the fear of Dogs

This next layout of Kai was taken 2 days before he turned the BIG '5'.....he has the biggest attitude at the moment, and for some reason always offers the look of mischief when the camera is out!!

Mr Attitude...He's got the look of Mischief

Once again the yearly September Daffodil Festival was on in Kyneton. I love to take the kids each year to watch the Grand Parade that marks the end of the season. The parade consists of local schools, car clubs, social clubs, bands, music and lots more. Here is the girls watching the parade, poor Tilly obviously didn't like the smell of something hehehe!!

Caitlan, Matilda & Ellie

This next photo is one of my favourites from the parade. Pa Jim with Matilda and Ellie, he loves the kids so much and taking the time to stand and watch the parade with both girls hanging on tightly, just shows how much they mean to him.

Matilda, Pa Jim and Ellie.

The Chinese Dragons are always a hit at the parade. The Central Victorian Gold Lion team put on an amazing show. I was fearing the worst with Ellie thinking that the sound from the fire crackers and drums would be too much for her ears, but she was totally amazed at the performance that was going on. Here is the new Dragon that has never performed at the parade before. It has a team of about 15 people operating it from head to tip of the tail and OMG....they are amazing. I will definitely make the trip to Bendigo next Easter for the night show and watch this amazing team perform again.

The Lion team who also operated the large Dragon, did several other performances with the 3 Lions. These were just as amazing, the colors and effort that the teams put into the routines had me amazed.

The Red Lion

Lion Team Performance.

These last 2 pictures are my favourite at the moment. While sitting outside at the sister in laws place I noticed that the pot on the centre of the table was full of little pansy's....camera was on hand and so I started snapping away (these are the best 2 of about 20). I changed the camera over to manual and played around with the settings to end up with this....

Anyhow its raining here and the kids are getting noisy and bored, so I must be off to see what I can find to entertain them for the rest of the day.

Until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen M xox

Lots to share......

2009-09-21T01:57:00.008+10:00

OMG its term 3 school holidays and about 90 days until Christmas......where has this year gone??? Seriously I can not believe how fast things are moving at the moment.

Well since my last post the 2 piles of material have been successfully turned into 16 Octopus costumes. The girls school concert was fantastic, all the grade levels put so much effort into their designated theme. The overall theme for the concert was Super Troupers a dedication to all the Musicals. Matilda's prep class did the theme of The Little Mermaid...they were just so cute!! Unfortunately I do not have any photos to share as of yet, but rest assured I will get hold of some and post for you all to see. Caitlan's class did Mary Poppins.....and I have to say that the effort my Mum put into making her a real Mary Poppins shirt and skirt was amazing {thanks a million Mum xox}.

Onto some layouts that I thought I had shared....seems I shared them on facebook, but not on here, anyhow here they are.....

Girl Friends.

Let Your Mind....FLY

Why Do I Love You?

Best Friends.

The Adventure of a New Journey.

Five.

Well its rather late here and I should be in bed getting some much needed zzzzz's, so until next time take care of you and happy scrapping/

Mwah Karen M xox

Update...

2009-09-01T10:05:00.006+10:00

Just thought I would share some pics since my scrapping has been put on hold.

With the girls School concert coming up this month, I was kindly nominated by Matilda (our cheeky 6 year old daughter) that Mummy was very creative and would help with the making of costumes. Yep 16 Octopus costumes required for the preps school concert performance. So what did I say...oh yeah no probs, I can manage that (insert scream and OMG how am I going to do this??) So here is the color scheme for the costumes....however I have since managed to complete 12 of the outfits since taking this photo. Its actually been nice to get the sewing machine out and playing with something different. I will say though, that they are coming together better than I planned, and me not being biast think that they will be the best looking lot of Octopus's!!!
I will upload photos of the completed costumes.....so stay tuned for the reveal!!

Boys 4 colors on top of pile.

Girls 4 colors on top of pile.

These next pic's I just had to share. Our Caitlan and her best friend Caitlin had a play date/sleepover weekend. Its was so nice to see the girls playing so well together. Since kinder they have remained best friends and are rarely separated while at School. Our Caitlan came and asked if Mummy could take some pics of them together.....how could I say no??

Best friends forever. Caitlan and Caitlin

Anyhow that's all I have to share at the moment.
So until next time take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xox

More to share...

2009-08-19T09:32:00.011+10:00

Just thought that I would update some of my latest work.

I recently found this amazing little site Sweeties Sketches, its run by Shell Barnard who creates some really great sketches. I was the lucky winner for the month of July using the sketch below to create the layout Dora's Number One Fan.

Dora's Number One Fan

This is another sketch from Sweeties Sketches for the month of August. I am so happy with the end result of this layout and after I submitted it to Shell, I received an email asking if I would be interested in becoming part of her new Design Team!! The new blog is due to be launched in September (however if you would like a sneak peak of the 1st sketch on offer then follow the link Totally Addicted to Sketch)

Your Time to Shine is Now.

Anyhow that's all for now, should have some more to share with you soon!!

Take care of you and until next time Happy Scrapping.

Mwah Karen xoxo

Sore feet....but amazing results

2009-08-16T00:54:00.009+10:00

Its late, I'm tired, have sore feet....but just so excited to share these new pics!! Today was my course with Martin Bonnici from Melbourne's Photography Made Easy. What a blast....I have discovered so much more to the world of photography, but to discover it all in the city I live...beyond words!!!

So many simple yet easy (hence the name of the course) techniques to capture amazing photos has given me a whole new world to explore. Simply by making a change to the ISO setting, switching from auto to manual, slowing the shutter speed and forcing the camera to do what you want left me speechless!!

So here is a handful of my favourite pics that I captured today. I have altered some of these pics using the camera and some using PSE Lightroom.

I hope that anyone given the opportunity to undertake the day course with Marty does...its well worth the time, effort and sore feet (lol) to learn all the aspects of your camera. Weather you own a simple point and shoot to a full on SLR, you can achieve amazing results....but it also allows you to unleash the photographer inside!!

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

All growing up...

2009-08-14T12:47:00.004+10:00

Just though I would share the latest pics of my beautiful kids. Since the purchase of my new Nikon SLR D60 camera, its turned into something more. I can't help myself, the kids are starting to become a little...enough with the camera Mum, but hey, they only little for so long!!

So snapping away and then playing with lightroom, here is what I have...

Caitlan (aged7)

Matilda (aged 6)

Kai (aged 5)

Ellie (aged 3)

Thats all for now....

Until next time take care of you and happy scrapping!!

Mwah Karen xxx

Moving Ahead....

2009-08-14T11:30:00.002+10:00

Well another month has passed and here I am again, feeling terrible that I have not updated my poor neglected blog!!

There is so much to tell....

Firstly my beautiful boy Kai turned 5 on the 10th August....where has 5 years gone??? He is such a little man now and looking back at all the photographs I have, made me realise how lucky I am to have such an amazing boy. As troublesome as he is, I would not change a single thing.

Our littlest bubba Miss Ellie has been through the works with Doctors, Audiologists & Specialists...we finally got the diagnosis for her ever so loud voice and inability to speak clearly. My heart was broken to find out that she is moderately Deaf. I suppose for some time now I have known that something was just not right, but to find out the extent of what has to be done to hopefully try and correct her hearing is going to be a long road. But with the knowing of support that she has from Myself and Michael, she will be fine. There is so much on offer these days for kids with this sort of problem that once she starts the surgery round, then speech therapy and occupational therapy we should hopefully have our quiet little bubba back...fingers crossed hehehe!!!

Me....I am going back to school!! Yep you heard right, 10 years ago was the last time I stepped into a classroom. After some careful thinking and asking myself what I want to do with my life (apart from being a Mum) I have had this constant niggle of doing something more with my Photography skills. So September 7th is D-day, back to school to complete a basic course in Digital Photography at the local Tafe. Being night school allowed me to not have the hassle and worry of child care for the kids but also allows me the freedom to complete the course at times that suited my everyday life. I will update about this more once School has started.

I am also mega excited about tomorrow...I am going to do the one day course with Martin Bonnici of Melbournes Photography Made Easy. Will post more to this once I have completed the course.

Anyhow just got a call and have to fly out for a bit. Have some scrapping LO's to share and more OTP items that I made for a couple of babies. Will endeavour to be back later today to post (don't hold you breath though!!! ROFL).

Until then, take care of you and happy scrapping!!

Mwah Karen xxx

Update...

2009-07-13T09:24:00.017+10:00

My goodness...where has almost 2 months gone??? I can not believe that I have neglected my blog so much over the last 7 weeks. I do however have an excuse...the big PC at home went in for some maintenance after we were the unfortunate victims of some very talented computer hackers. My life was turned upside down and the feeling of being so exposed to the world left me very cautious as to what I accessed on the Internet!! All is well now though thanks to my very talented BIL James who managed to fix the problem and get us back up and running.

Anyhow enough of the excuses, whats been happening???

On the scrapping front...not a lot but I do have some layouts and an OTP album that I did for a present.

Here is what I have completed. There may be some more that I have yet to scan back into the computer to share but will do that in the next week or two.

Coop - July 2009

Our Perfect Pic - July 2009

Portrait of a Painted Beauty - July 2009

The Beauty of Friendship - July 2009

Rebecca's Natural Found Talent - July 2009

Here is an OTP Album I completed for Caitlin Wilson's 8th Birthday. It was fun putting together an album for someone that appreciated it so much. Spunkalicious was so excited when she finally saw the finished project.

Front of album.

Close up front of album.

Inside page 1 & 2.

Inside page 3 & 4.

Inside page 5 & 6.

Side view of album - rather chunky!!

On the non scrapping side, things have been busy.

The kids have returned to School this morning after 2 weeks of holidays. The weather has been so cold that outside play for them proved a no go zone. We did however manage a few other activities.

I took the girls to see Disney Princesses on Ice - Princesses Wishes. It was so nice to have a girly day. We took the train into the city and walked down to Rod Laver Arena. Ellie loved the show and got so excited with Tinker Bell being the special guest...she is a huge Tinker Bell fan!! Cate and Tilly also loved the show and have asked if we can go again should the show return.
Here are two of the best pics I managed to get.

Belle - Beauty and the Beast

Final scene where all the princesses came out together with the Cinderella carriage carrying special guest Tinker Bell.

Mick had a great boys day with Kai. They went to the movies to see the new Transformers and apparently do boys things...what ever that may be!!!

The girls also went to the movies to see the new Hanna Montana movie. Apparently they loved it and are now eagerly awaiting the movie to come out on DVD.

My little mate Amy Jane spent the night in hospital after falling of her brothers scooter and breaking her arm. This kid is one tough cookie, surgery to set the arm in plaster and a night at the hospital and she just takes it all in her stride.

As you can see here, she is still full of cheek and allows me to take a pic for the record...well more for Selena to scrap and record her magical stunt ROFL!!!

Anyhow that's all I have time for to share at the moment. Need to run off and get the shopping done, get Kai organised for Kindy and try to restore some routine back into our daily life.

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen M xxx

Soooo Neglected!!!

2009-07-12T02:12:00.002+10:00

My poor blog...its been sooo neglected for the past few months, that I really need to give myself a big kick in the pants and keep it updated.

I have so much to share....everything from layouts, OTP items to whats been happening in my crazy world. But where to start is the next question.

Its a bit late (well only 2:15am) so I might leave the updating until tomorrow!!

Night all and watch this space for all that I have to share.

Mwah Karen M xxx

Month of May....madness

2009-05-27T23:41:00.008+10:00

This month has proven to be total madness....with lots of birthday celebrations I thought I would share some pics.

I was so pleased to catch up with an old school friend for her 30th Birthday. Jodie and I go back as far as Primary School and have managed to keep in touch over the years since finishing year 12 together in 1996...OMG now I am showiing my age rofl!!!

A great night with plenty of drinking and walks down memory lane....

Birthday girl in centre.

My Cousin kay who happened to be at the pub on the night of Jodie's 30th.

My neice Rose who celebrated her 7th birthday this month.

Rose's amazing Cat birthday cake...decorated by her very talented Dad James.

A big milestone for Grace. Her 9th birthday.

My Favourite pic from Grace's 9th Birthday. She was just so happy and to catch this precious moment with her Dad just melts my heart. Grace has made amazing progress in her recovery and to see her on this day, so happy is the best present that she could have. Love you to bits Gracie Mac.

And now we are almost at the end of the month. Not a lot of scrapping to share, having major dramas with the big PC. I had the pleasure of being hacked and totally exposed to the cyber world, which has left me very dis-hearted. However in saying that I am not going to dwell on it, I will keep moving forward and should be back up and running again soon.

Until then take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

Little update and some sharing!!

2009-05-04T13:09:00.007+10:00

Hello all....my apologies for not updating here sooner, but every day life has been on the flat chat side of things....Mick has been away with work and having to do everything on my own has been a real handful.

So whats been happening?? Hmmm lots of nothing really, just the usual everyday routine of keeping up the kids and not a lot of scrapping {{sigh}}. My poor scrap desk has become the dumping ground for anything and everything and I really should get to finding it!!

Anyhow a little something to share with you. I have had these 4 layouts to share for a while now, but for some reason I have been flat out, although it feels like I have achieved nothing!! I have not scrapped in over a week and am starting to have withdrawals.....sad I know. But the whole "ME" time thing was put to the back burner. So here we go.....

Scrap Witch - Easter CC Layout

Scrapbook 'n' Bits - April CC Layout

Oh that's the other exciting news I have to share....I am off to see Billy Elliott The Musical on the 16th May. A night out with my Mum and Jim is something that I have not done in such a long time and what a better way to share a be-lated Mothers Day with my Mum!!

Until next time, take care of you and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

A special something for a special someone...

2009-04-23T14:30:00.004+10:00

Just wanted to share a small sneak peak of Mistra's 40th Birthday present....its not much of a sneak peak, but obviously I can not reveal the real deal until she receives it.

Anyhow here is a pic but will reveal all once its in her hands....or should I say on her wrist hehehe!!!

That's all for the moment, take care of you and until next time happy scrapping

Mwah Karen xxx

Another to share....

2009-04-18T18:06:00.004+10:00

Easter has been and gone, school holidays are almost over and all I have to share is 1 layout.

Have spent this last week doing a lot of nothing....enjoying the peace and quiet with only 2 little ones home. Cate spent 4 days with my sister in Bendigo, while Tilly enjoyed a 3 day sleep over with her cousin Rose.

So what do I have to share....another Easter CC challenge set by Amy G. Loved this challenge, it was so much fun playing with digital effects, and I even managed to get my hands onto a copy of lightroom (thanks Jimmy).

Scrap Witch Easter CC challenge - by Amy G

Anyhow thats all for today, hoping to scrap tonight and get the last 2 challenges for the CC completed.

Until next time, take care and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

Scrap Witch CC 2 layouts down...4 to go

2009-04-11T14:50:00.003+10:00

With the absence of Jill from Scrap Witch, the girls were all crying out for some challenges. The amazing Heather put forward a post about running our own week long Easter CC. With quite a number of ladies up for the challenge we now have 7 challenges to complete.

Here is 2 of the 7 challenges complete...however I will only complete 6 as I have set a challenge for the girls. I suppose I could complete the challenge myself, but scrap lifting one of my own layouts.....nah rofl!!!

Anyhow here are the first 2 layouts:

Pose - Ange's Pizza Challenge

Royal Air - Kerri's Horse Name Challenge

Well I best get back to the desk and keep creating while the "mojo" is still running.

Until next time, Take care and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

Simple layout to share...

2009-04-10T00:41:00.002+10:00

With the first week of the school holidays almost over, I have finally managed to find some time to finish this layout. Its been sitting on the desk for a few days...not stuck down, just moved around until tonight when I finally got it to work.

Shull up Dad

That's all for tonight, take care and have a safe and happy Easter.

Mwah Karen xxx

Keepsake gift for Lillyarna...

2009-04-07T11:08:00.007+10:00

This last week has been a pretty quiet one on the scrapping front.

No layouts to share but I finally managed to get the keepsake paint tin finished for Ian & Tash's new baby girl Lillyarna.

It was nice to step away from the standard LO and create something off the page.

Apart from this nothing else to share, however being school holidays I'm sure that some photo opp's will arise and some more layouts will come.

I hope you all have a safe and happy Easter....and all get lots of chocolate.

Until next time happy scrapping.
Mwah Karen xxx

2 More to share.....

2009-03-29T03:30:00.003+11:00

So the mojo has finally kicked into action allowing me to create 2 totally different layouts.

The layout below is challenge #2 for Scrapbook 'n' bits Cyber Crop. With the colors of purple, green and orange as the basis.....I was like OMG how can I make these colors work??? But somehow I made it happen. Still not convinced that I would use this array of colors again, I am happy with the outcome of the layout.

When Ellie decides 2 go hopping mad with Dora.

The Look of an Angel

Anyhow that's all for tonight.

Until next time, take care and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

My version of the sketch...

2009-03-28T02:39:00.004+11:00

Since being sick, I have managed to find some quiet time and its resulted in spending quite a bit of time on the net.

I thought it was due time that all the bookmarked pages that I had saved from however long ago were cleaned out!! In doing so, I came across a number of Scrapbook sites that I had totally forgotten about. As luck would have it, Scrapbook 'N' Bits were running the monthly CC (Cyber Crop) this weekend and so I thought I would pop on over for a look see to find out what the challenges were.

After about an hour of trying to remember my user name and password (it could have been a number of names/numbers) I hit the jackpot and logged in.

1st Challenge up....a Pagemaps Sketch!!

Our Little Surf Boy.

I loved the simplicity of the sketch and tah dah.....I got it done!!

So its bed time for me now.....have been awake and unable to sleep because of this bloody tummy bug that's knocking me about.

Until tomorrow when I hope to sit quietly and scrap again, take care and happy scrapping!!

Mwah Karen xxx

Little update....

2009-03-26T09:52:00.002+11:00

So much for being on a roll with the "mojo" running hot....the ever so lovely Hubby decided that coming down sick was just what I needed!!! Now thanks to him being sick and me running around like a headless chook trying to achieve mission impossible......I am sick!!
Woke up Wednesday morning feeling terrible.....worst upset tummy you could imagine and here I am...still feeling crappy!!

I did however manage to complete this layout last weekend. These pics are from early march when I took the kids to my sisters place in the country. We had the best time up there, it was just what the kids needed, some fresh country air and room to run!!

Country for a Day

Well that's all I have to share at the moment...hopefully I will be back on my feet again and be able to share some more.

Until then, take care and happy scrapping

Mwah Karen xxx

Scrapping the weekends away...

2009-03-15T03:03:00.006+11:00

Another weekend of scrapping and I have managed to complete a layout and a small Kaiser album as a gift.
I love these pictures of Kai & Ellie in the bath and with some help from my lightroom friend, I once again made changes to the original images.

I am totally loving my scrapping at the moment, and hope that the last few weeks allow me to continue, and I don't loose the "mojo"....praying, praying rofl!!!

So here is the layout and the album.

The Shark Tub.

And this is the album that I managed to pull together at rather short notice!! I made the album for Cate & Tilly's school friend Georgia's 7th Birthday. I wanted to give something more personal, instead of just giving a gift card.
So here it is without pictures. I created it so that the pictures from her party could be placed into the album, along with 7 tags that her school friends could write personal birthday messages on.

Front Cover.

Page 1 & 2

Page 3 & 4

Page 5 & 6

Thats all for now, thanks for looking, take care and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

On a roll....

2009-03-09T03:57:00.003+11:00

I'm on a roll....the mojo is running, its 4am in the morning and I should be in bed, but I just can't stop!!

This layout is dedicated to my father who passed away 8 years ago. The kids love calling into the cemetery, but when they get out of the car they call for Cobber. They like to let Cobber know that they are there. Although they are still young and don't understand the whole thing about not being able to see him in person, I am proud that they take the time to acknowledge who he was....Granddad Cobber!!

Calling Cobber.

I should retire to bed now, so until tomorrow when I hopefully have another layout completed, take care and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

Another to share...

2009-03-08T18:18:00.004+11:00

Beach Bum Smile

Time to start sharing......

2009-03-08T11:11:00.003+11:00

Its been so long since I posted any layouts that I am beginning to think that no one will be bothering to come back and read my blog.

The mojo seems to have kicked in and making the most of a long weekend I have been scrapping away and loving the end result of all that I have created. It also helps having some decent pictures to scrap...well they are all decent, its more a case of changing everything in Lightroom to get the desired effect. So here are 2 recent layouts, with more to come soon.

Ticket 2 Ride

Together as a family.

Until next time, take care and happy scrapping.

Mwah Karen xxx

Its all Mistra's fault....

2009-03-07T15:49:00.007+11:00

Lightroom.....what an amazing program!!

Its all Mistra's fault, she got me interested in the program on my last visit to W.A and now all I can say is I am hooked!!! The things you can do to pictures is mindblowing...now I want to change all my pictures hehehe!!!

I am supposed to be scrapping the weekend away, but after quite a few hours of playing, I now can not decide what pictures to scrap...they all look so different and I can't make a decision!!

So to prove that I have been having some "ME" time, here is one of my all time favourite pictures of the girls. I have already scrapped this picture, but after playing in lightroom, I think it calls for another appearence on a layout!!

Before Lightroom.

After Lightroom.

Anyhow thats all for today...will be back later on to post some layouts that I have done so until then, take care and happy scrapping

Karen xxx

The Crash.....

2009-03-04T11:59:00.013+11:00

Yeah....."CRASH"

My Week didn't start out very well...I was the unfortunate victim of being rear ended in the car on Monday lunchtime.
I was sitting stationary behind another car ready to turn right at the roundabout when this moron decided that he would use the back of my car as his point of impact to stop!!

And F*#K did he hit me hard....hard enough to slam me into the arse of the car in front of me. Talk about being the meat between the 2 slices of bread.

Luckily however I only had little Ellie with me in the car...normally I would have had all 4 children with me (Cate & Tilly in the back), but Kai had just been dropped off to Kinder and the girls were at school. Ellie however resulted in a ambulance ride to the Northern Hospital, just to be on the safe side. The impact was hard enough to take the wind from her sails and make her gasp....now I'm talking gasp and gasp and gasp, I was like...take a breath Ellie. She is however fine, its me with the whiplash. Thank god to the person that invented seat belts. I reckon I would have kissed the windscreen had I not been wearing a seat belt.

Anyhow $6K damage to my car...and that's just for starters, will have to wait and see what is underneath, 2 weeks in the repair shop and some serious walking for me and the kids.

Here are a few pics...they don't show the true extent of the damage, but the car will need new bonnet, tailgate, front and rear bars and whatever else is broken and needs replacing.

Until next time, take care...mwah Karen xxx

My return to blogging...

2009-02-25T13:47:00.002+11:00

So where have I been....hmm I have just returned from a round the world cruise, If only it was true!!

I am still here, just not on here. Its been the most busy, hectic stressful, happy, sad last few months, that time did not prevail for me to actually sit and fill you in on whats been happening.

As some of you are aware, I am on facebook and found that being in contact with my many friends & family on there was enough to keep you all posted as to whats happening in my life and with my scrapping.

So what has been happening???

December 2008 - The birthdays of my 2 oldest girls. Caitlan turned 7 (21/12/2008) and completed grade 1 and Matilda turned 6 (24/12/2008) and completed her 1st year of Prep.
Christmas was a blur, it arrived and left so quickly that I can't really remember it. But I should remember it as the kids are always laughing and having a great time on the new trampoline.

January 2009 - The arrival of the New Year...We took the kids into Federation Square in the city for the early fireworks display. Since train travel was free, we decided that it would be a nice outing for the kids. That was short lived, Caitlan stood in awe watching the display while Matilda burst into tears from the sound, Kai thought it was fantastic as it sounded like machine guns and Ellie clung to my hip and buried her head in total fright. However in saying that I enjoyed myself.
School Holidays were quiet...well not quiet with 4 kids in the house, being bored shit less but money is tight and the weather dropped a couple of doozie hot days on us, so we spent a lot of time at home. I did however manage to scrap quite a bit (I will load some layouts soon) and spent lots of time with the kids doing nothing.
The end of January was a sad time for us with 3 deaths in 5 days. I received a call to tell me that a family member had committed suicide on the Australia day long weekend, Mum then called me to say that my Uncle had passed away and an old school friend lost her mother very suddenly. That totally flawed me...I don't handle deaths very well....I suppose nobody does really, but 3 in 5 days was more than I could take on board.

February 2009 - My cousins wedding 07/02/2009.......this is a day that I think everyone will remember for a long time to come - Black Saturday.
We were down Bairnsdale way for the wedding with 46 degree heat and the worst northerly winds you could possibly imagine. The wedding was great, I managed to catch up with some family that I had not seen in quite some time and I was also blessed to meet the latest arrival of Poppy, Allan and Annie's beautiful baby girl.
With the devastation of the fires burning throughout Victoria, we were unable to make our trip home from the wedding as planned. Most roads & major freeways were closed making it almost impossible to get back. I was beginning to panic as the 4 kids were with friends in Epping and here we were stuck...300kms away and nothing we could do. I am so grateful that the friends the kids were staying with, had them all under control and told us to wait it out and return when it was safe.
My dear friend and her husband lost everything, house, cars, all their worldly possessions, but manage to escape with a handful of treasured possessions and the clothes on their backs. Hearing their voices after this terrible devastation made me realise how lucky they were. They are still here to tell the tale, unlike so many other unfortunate victims.

Today - The kids are all returned to school for another year, Kai has commenced 4 year old Kindergarten, Ellie has just turned 3 (22/02/2009) and I am slowly coming out from the blanket of fog that has taken over my everyday life.

That's about it in a nutshell...no doubt I have forgotten something, but bare with me while I make my return to blogging.

To Everyone out there that has suffered from the bushfire's, through to the floods in Queensland, hold your heads high and know that everyone in this household is thinking of you and we wish you all a safe road to recovery.

Until next time, stay safe and happy scrapping. Karen xxx

(Will load some layouts in the next day or two)

Change is coming.......

2009-01-15T15:32:00.000+11:00

Thats right......Stay tuned for the change!!!

Last days of the 20's......

2008-11-29T11:20:00.004+11:00

OMG with only 3 more days left of my 20's, I am staring down the barrel of the daunting big "30"!!

So much has happened during my 20's and its only now when I think about it, that I realise how much has happened.

It all started with the milestone of "21", watching, nursing & losing Dad to cancer, watched my Mum become happy again (thanks Jim), meet the man of my dreams (cough) was blessed with becoming a mother to 4 beautiful children (cough, cough), married the man of my dreams (cough, cough again!!), made friends, lost friends, took the good times with the bad and have now become the person that I am today.

So how do we celebrate seeing out the 20's and welcoming the 30's??? A Grand party is the order of the day. With my actual coronation on Tuesday 02/12/08 (meaning my birthday), I decided that a party with a theme was what I wanted!! With months of planning....well I best be honest, with a week or two of planning, a party has been set for Dusk on the 6th December.

With a Medieval theme, spit roast, marque in the back yard, karaoke (never a real party without it) and numerous invites sent out, it has actually given me something to look forward to....its sort of taken the brunt of the whole big turning "30" thing lol!!!

I will also be blessed with the presence of an amazing friend that is taking the time to travel from the other side of Australia just to help celebrate my birthday.

Ok enough on the whole birthday thing, what else has been happening......this last 2 months has been a time of laughs, tears, heartache and anything else you want to throw into the mix.

With the terrible accident of my niece, she has been through a journey that I would not wish upon anyone. Her recovery is a slow and painful one and my heart just breaks, but all my prayers are with her (God bless you Grace).

Family issues have been rearing their ugly heads, leaving me in two minds as to where I stand in the firing line. My beliefs/morals have had a major impact on the way in which I see things and unfortunately disagreements have been had.

The kids are all well. School is winding up for another year and preparations for the girls to start a new year at school are being organised. Caitlan will move into Grade 2 (OMG...shock) and Matilda will repeat another year of Prep to help her get her levels up before moving into Grade 1. Kindergarten is also winding up for Kai, and he has the new year ahead starting 4 year old. Ellie will stay at home for another year with me as her speech/ability to communicate is not ready for 3 year old Kindergarten. Having just Ellie at home with me, will allow me the time I need to help develop her speech and to also get her prepared for what is expected.

Now to finish up, here is a layout that I did last night....yep finally managed to create something, simple but enough to get the mojo happening.

Until next time, thanks for looking, take care of you and see you in the 30's hehehe!!!
Mwah Karen xx

I'm back....

2008-11-09T02:20:00.005+11:00

After some much needed time out, I have finally managed to make it back to the cyber world!!

With a lonesome desk staring at me, the scrapping bug took hold and I somehow managed to create this LO tonight. Using a Hambly Screen Print, I decided to challenge myself and not use any PP or C/S as the base of the layout. With 2 phone calls to the West today, Mistra gave me the inspiration that I needed to start scrapping again. Its been almost 6 weeks since I sat and scrapped properly and the feeling I have now of actually finishing a layout is amazing.

Wanting to know how to scan/photograph a layout that was made using the screen print, Mistra was the person I knew would have the answer I needed. I have to say though the LO looks a lot better IRL, as I had to use white C/S behind it so that it would scan. Its not the best scan of the LO....however at this time of night....I mean morning, I am calling it a day and hitting the sack for some much needed zzzzzz's!!

Love this chick always

Anyhow thanks for looking, take care of you and until next time happy scrapping.

Karen xx

Through sickness comes a layout....

2008-11-02T11:01:00.003+11:00

After some serious time away from everything, all was looking good for me to come back and face the real world........but just because I could not cope with anything else, we all got knocked for "6" with "GASTRO".

All the kids were complaining of upset tummies and thinking all would be well with myself I copped it "BIG TIME". Loosing 3kgs in the process and looking ever so pale, another week away from everything didn't seem like such a big deal.

So after all my time away from this place we call the real world, I am back and even have a layout to share with you. I know its not much of a layout....but its a start lol!!

Moments

Ok, kids are calling, washing needs hanging out and maybe the scrap desk might get the pleasure of my company again today!!

Thanks for looking and I look forward to keeping you all up to date with all thats happening!! Take care, Regards Karen xx

Almost back.....

2008-10-25T13:03:00.002+11:00

I am almost back to the land of the living.

Life seems to have settled down a little.....still not all back with it, but on the improve!!

Hoping that later today I can finally share something with you, I finally managed to scrap the last 2 nights creating an OPT present for my neice.

So stay tuned for later today when I load some pics.

The reason to being MIA....

2008-10-15T17:28:00.002+11:00

Just wanting to let you all know, that I have fallen off the face of the earth.....yep you are all in for a bit of a wait until I return!!

Life has thrown a spanner in the works and unfortunatley its resulted in me taking some time out, while I try to get through what I am dealing with.

Please take the time to pop back again in the coming weeks as I'm sure that I will endeavour to return as soon as time & "LIFE" permits!!

Just an update

2008-10-02T15:30:00.008+10:00

OMG October already......where has this year gone???

School holidays are drawing to a close and I am sooooo grateful that the kids are back to school and kinder on Monday!! Cabbin Fever has started to kick in and the kids are becoming a little on edge with each other. Routines are up the shit, Mick is away with work, the purse $$$ are tight and I could do with another trip away LOL!!!

I did however manage a day out with the kids yesterday with a trip over to my Uncle and Aunts place in Dixons Creek (Yarra Valley). The kids had a blast, plenty of fresh air, room to run and the sun shining proved a fab day out. My Uncle Tommy was fantastic spending so much time with the kids and they had the joy of feeding the sheep, the fish (they have a fish pond that looks like a swimming pool) and generally just being able to run and not be stressed about anything. So here are a few pics that I captured yesterday:

Feeding the sheep

Feeding the fish

Mucking about with Uncle Tommy

Uncle Tommy tackled by the kids

The kids thinking it was hilarious!!

So thats about it from me at the moment, need to print some pics off and start scrapping....been soooo slack with scrapping this last week that the desk is looking a little lonely!!

Until next time, thanks for looking, take care of you and happy scrapping!!

Mwah Karen xx

Running hot with "MOJO"

2008-09-24T11:59:00.000+10:00

September seems to have bought a new lease of life for the "Mojo". With the kids on school holidays I have not been restricted to the daily rountine of running here, running there, doing this and doing that!!

But what I have been able to accomplish is some sleepless nights where the "mojo" kicks in and I end up creating some materpieces that I am totally in love with. My MaDscraps DT kit has been the biggest blessing this month, it has allowed my creativity to go beyond the boundaries of where I have ever dared go before.

So here are a few sneak peaks of what is upcoming in the next MaDscraps newsletter.

Until next time, thanks for looking and happy scrapping.

Karen xxx

My Little Village....Houses 1 & 2

2008-09-22T10:40:00.000+10:00

My new found "little" passion....OTP Houses!! I am having so much fun making these and I have realised that the possibilities are endless with what you can do with them.

It all started while in WA when a visit to a couple of Mistra's local scrap shops got me hooked. The display of houses in both shops were just beautiful. So armed with all the supplies I needed I decided that I had to make some. So here is house 1 & 2.....the first of my little village. Keep your eyes peeled as more will be on display very soon.

Until next time, thanks for looking and happy scrapping.

Karen xx

Scrap Witch Cyber Crop Layouts - September 2008

2008-09-18T10:05:00.002+10:00

Another great weekend of Cyber Cropping at Scrap Witch and I managed to complete all 4 challenges!! Although I completed the first 2 layouts on the Saturday without much drama, the Sunday was a day where I almost lost all my hair from the challenges that Jill set.

Referred to as Scrap Guinea Pigs for challenge #3 on the Sunday gave me the inspiration I needed to write a blog enrty for Aussie Scrapbooking. Keep your eyes open for when this story is featured. Anyhow here are the 4 layouts from the weekend!!

Challenge #1 - Little Roo

Challenge #2 - First Day Of School

Challenge #3 - Bring Home Reader

Challenge #4 - Ratbags 1 & 2

Now I think that is everything I had to share......3 posts today so I better leave what layouts or pictures I do have to share for another day.

Until next time, take care and thanks for looking.

Karen xxx

Couple of Pictures to share!!

2008-09-18T10:05:00.001+10:00

A couple of holiday snaps that I wanted to share. Catching up with Jules, Nes and meeting Chrissy for the first time was fantastic. Although we chatter via the cyber world, meeting and seeing IRL (in real life) makes me realise that I have meet some of the most beautiful and amazing ladies. I am truely blessed for having them as part of my life.

Mistra and Myself - Outside Alfreds

Mistra, Nes & Myself - Scrap Witch Girls

Me scrapping at Tomorrow's Memories

Mistra, Jules, Chrissy & Myself

Anyow just a quick post to share these pics with you all!!

Karen xxx

A little more to share from my W.A trip!!

2008-09-18T10:05:00.000+10:00

Finding the time to catch up on here lately is proving to be harder than what I imagined. With so much that has been happening since my return sitting down to organise pictures etc, to show you has been a task that takes longer than a spare 5 minutes.

So what has been happening since I got back........well where do I start?? Maybe with the Monday while I was still enjoying my holiday with Mistra......I received a phone call from Mick to say that Kai (LM) had been in hospital.....OMG here I am on the other side of the country and I was completely helpless. He took a major stack while out for dinner at McDonalds!! Bashing his left eye socket on the table earned him the joyful trip to Hospital and a plastic surgery consult.

So I returned on the Wednesday morning.....bright and early and ready for a trip to the hospital with Mick & Kai as his eye required plastic surgery. So to cut a long story short......approx 10 stitches inside with 6 on the outside. Talk about can't go away for 5 minutes without a drama happening!!

So back into routine here and catching up with some special peoples like Selena (who by the way I missed terribly), Angel and a couple of others, life is pretty much back to normal.......in other words "NEVER A DULL MOMENT"!!!

Here is another project that I completed while in W.A. Its a clear acrylic album that I made for Mick for Fathers Day. It contains some special everyday moments from this year and I just wanted to highlight a few of them for him on Fathers Day!!

Front Cover

Inside Front Cover

I also wanted to share this picture below of the amazing scrap space of MaDscraps!! An 8 seater boardroom table to spread as far as we both could, Mistra and I managed to take up 3/4 of it. It was fantastic to have so much space and not have to worry about packing up in case of the kids getting into everything.......makes my scrap space look rather small hehehe!!

Anyhow until next time.....which will most probably be next week while the kids are on School Holidays, and talking of holidays.......April Himing if you read this before you leave for your Gold Coast holiday, enjoy have a great time and make sure you check out all the local Scrap Shops for me!!!

Thanks for looking and until next time, happy scrapping

Karen xxx

I'm Back

2008-09-12T10:30:00.000+10:00

I'm back......made it home safely on Wednesday morning, and feel as though I could have stayed longer, but reality was here and it welcomed me back with a few drama's!!! I need more than a few minutes to go into full detail, but I'm sure that I will manage to post all the details a little later.

Anyhow I had the most wonderful time with Mistra and have a few minutes to quickly share a little project I completed. I think I have found my calling.......I have this new obsession for OTP houses. A little weird it may seem, but making this house for the MIL's birthday has opened so many new doors into the OTP paper craft world.

One last layout before I take off.

2008-08-30T21:10:00.000+10:00

Yep one last layout to share with you all before I pack the suitcase and take off for a week of un-interrupted peace and quiet. This layout is one I did earlier in the month, but have just been too busy to get around to uploading it. I have entered it in the Open challenge gallery at Scrap Witch so remember to pop on over and have a look at what everyone else has been upto in the scrapping world and also to check out the gossip of what's been happening.

Magic Wand - Open Challenge Entry In Scrap Witch

So only 4 more sleeps until I take off for that week of peace, quiet, relaxfull thing called a holiday..........I am just a little excited. I have the worst task of all yet........packing a full scrapping desk of supplies into a shoulder tote and making sure that I pack all the fav's!! How nice would it be to carry as much luggage as you like and not get smacked with a large $$$ from the airline company. But then thats ok, I will take a empty suitcase and fill it when I get to MaDscraps........Mistra loves my 6 monthly visit's, I have a lovely little spending spree while I there!!

Well this is the last post until I get back from Western Australia, so to all that read my blog, take care of yourselfs and I promise to post lots of pics and fill you all in on what I get upto.

Until then, happy scrapping and thanks for looking.

Mwah Karen xx

More Layouts to Share

2008-08-23T13:45:00.000+10:00

As promised yesterday here are another 2 layouts that I wanted to share with you all!!
The first layout is the August Sketch Challenge for Scrap Witch - Mucking About Together and the second layout is another DT layout for MaDscraps for the month of July!!

Well once again time is not on my side today, but have more to load either later today or tonight, so I won't promise anything, but hope that I can pop back later to post them up!!

August Sketch Challenge - Mucking About Together

MaDscraps DT Layout July 2008 - Each Others Rival

Until next time happy scrapping and thanks for looking

Karen xx

Found some time to update!!

2008-08-22T16:58:00.000+10:00

Another 3 weeks has flown and I have so much to catch up on here!!

Firstly Kai managed to reach the BIG 4........my now not so little man is growing up sooooo fast. Where has the time gone??? Another blink of the eye and I will see Cate, Tilly & Ellie celebrate another year as well.........so its a must that I cherish each and every moment of them now while they are still little!! Its been a pretty hectic month of Birthdays here with Angel, Jimmy, Kai, Pa Jim and also Selena having the joy of turning another year older.

With the kids in full swing at school & kinder, running here and there my poor blog must look a little stale to anyone popping in for a read.........so my apologies to everyone and hopefully these few layouts that I have to share will renew some interest for you all. I also have another 4 layouts to share, however time is not on my side tonight so I will make the effort to load them in the next day or so.

Anyhow here are the layouts that I have to share: Design Team for MaDscraps - July 2008

Beauty School Drop Out

2 Glam Girls On The Prowl

Remember that the above 2 layouts can be viewed at MaDscraps, along with more layouts and off the pages items that myself, Mistra and Vicki have created!!

So until next time.......(I promise that it will be sooner rather than later) Happy Scrapping and Thanks for taking the time to pop on over for a read.

Karen xx

Introduced At Aussie Scrapbooking

2008-08-05T22:30:00.000+10:00

So what news do I have to share with you.......Oh thats right I have been accepted as a Blogger on Aussie Scrapbooking!!

Quite proud of myself as I am not a well known name in the scrapbooking world, but having my work and posts published on this amazing site is more than I could have asked for.
My Introduction has been announced and my 1st article was posted today. I have quite a few more articles in the sidelines ready to be subimitted, so please take the time to pop over to Aussie Scrapbooking and see what I have been upto.

This is the layout that I completed to go with my bio on Aussie Scrapbooking. Its a little left of field in comparason to my normal layouts, but I deceided that I needed to let everyone know that I am a little "NUTTY"......not just the everyday person of a Wife, Mother and Scrapbooker.

So until next time, take care, thanks for reading and happy scrapping to you all scrappers out there!!

Mwah Karen xx

Playing with the "BUG"

2008-07-31T13:46:00.000+10:00

I have finally had the chance to play with my new Cuttlebug.......and OMG I can't get enough of it!! I found myself pulling out all sorts of scrap paper and running it through to see what effect I could achieve.

After coming across some scrap bazzil bling, I thought hmmm wonder what the bling will look like and well I'm "SOLD". As you can see I created this small card, which took about 5 minutes to make, but looks ever so elegant.

There is soooo much you can do with the Cuttlebug, that I thought about putting some flowers through. I knew papers flowers worked a treat, but what about some felt flowers?? If you are looking for a really different effect, then run some felt flowers through and see for yourself how well they turn out!!

Forgot to post the layout!!

2008-07-22T16:16:00.000+10:00

Sorry forgot to add the latest layout that I have done. This layout is one of the Elsie 52 week challenges that Penny Hackney posts each week at The Scrap Witch.

Challenge #24 was to use White Cardstock as the background and since I love using white cardstock, I thought its about time I had a go at these weekly challenges!!

A quick update!!

2008-07-22T14:27:00.000+10:00

OK, was about due that I posted an update as to whats been happening!!

This last week has seen a few new additions to my scrapping world, along with the purchase of some new white goods for the house.

For "ME".............A new printer, an Epson Stylus PHOTO RX610 and the photo quality is just amazing. After waiting soooo long I decided that I couldn't hold off any longer and just had to have one. The quality is almost as good as professionally printed pictures, but now when I need that one off picture, no more running out the door to Hardley Normals to get it printed!!

The next purchase was my very own green Spunkalicious CuttleBUG!! After reading a number of reviews and hearing a fair amount about them, I decided that I just had to have one. Honestly its Mistra & Selena's fault. Selena was her usual gorgeous self, trying to convince Mick to give me the money for one.........to no avail he didn't cough up the $$$$ but thanks for trying Selena, and Mistra keeps showing me all these amazing things that she has done with her "BUG", So I did it!!

Hmmmm what else do I have to tell you all??? Oh yes a new fan dangle Washing Machine was also on my shopping list and that arrived last Thursday. Another thing I would not have purchased if it had not been for the wonderful Selena.......I swear this chick should right a book on where to locate bargains and how to seek out the best in what you want to purchase. Selena provided me with details on where to locate the reviews via the net and also spoke of her personal experience. Once again, thanks Selena.....I appreciate what you do for me!!

And one last thing was a new chest freezer for the laundry, oh how nice it is to have room in the Kitchen one. After years of pushing and shoving everything possible into the small one, I had had enough. Yesterday was the last straw and I marched out the door and bought one. So now my laundry looks amazing with the new washer, dryer (its not very old) and the deep freeze....I feel like a queen with all the new white goods!!!!

Weekend Cyber Crop at Scrap Witch

2008-07-15T11:28:00.000+10:00

So how do you finish off 2 weeks of school holidays........Scrapping online with the girls at Scrap Witch for the monthly Cyber Crop.

Almost completed all 4 layouts, but the last challenge is still a work in progress.......once finished I will post it on here.

I was also the lucky winner of the July Cyber Crop prize pack with the layout of "Whats Within". The talent that has emerged from Scrap Witch is growing ever so much and I feel very honoured to have been selected from the famous "Plastic Cup" that the Scrap Witch master uses for the selecting the monthly winner.

So here are the Layouts of the challenges:

"Whats Within"

Just U!!

Cate's Seven Wonders.

So what else is going on.........Well I am off on another holiday!! Yep thats right Perth here I come again!! Heading over early September for a lovely 6 day break will be just what I need before the rush of Birthdays and Christmas.

Speaking of Birthdays, not long now until my little man will be turning "4".........OMG how 4 years has gone so quickly. I should be making invitations for his birthday to hand out to his kinder friends and organising some sort of party!! Apparently he wants a "Batman" party.....not sure how to go about this one, but with an array of "Batman" products out there, I'm sure that I will come up with something.

Anyhow school holidays are over and I should be making beds and putting another load of washing on, So take care, thanks for looking, and happy scrapping in the mean time.

Mwah Karen.

Another Teaser!!!!

2008-07-09T15:18:00.000+10:00

Just another little teaser for you all to look at and wonder what it really looks like!!!

Sneak Peak of July DT Work!!

2008-07-06T23:40:00.000+10:00

As promised here are a few sneak peaks of a current DT project that I am working on. It contains lots of "BLING" and is ever soooo girly!!

So for all you scrappers out there looking for the perfect girly layout or project, then keep an eye on this space for when the finished product is revealed.

Until next time, thanks for looking and "happy scrapping"!!!

Finally what the sneak peaks look like!!!

2008-07-06T17:29:00.000+10:00

So I have finally found some spare time to upload the full pictures of the layouts that I created for last months DT work at MaDscraps.

Since you have most probably seen them via the latest newsletter I decided to keep you all enticed with a few sneak peaks of a new project that I am working on. Keep your eyes peeled as I will post the sneak peaks soon.

Thanks for looking and until next time, happy scrapping and keep well!!!

Cherish The Good Days

Not Just A Boys Game

2 Fruits Of The Family Tree

We Adore You

Friends

Another Sneak Peak

2008-06-22T10:43:00.000+10:00

Ok, so the mojo was happening again last night!!

This is another layout that I created for the upcoming Newsletter at MaDscraps. Keep your eyes open for when all 6 layouts are revealed.......till then Happy Scrapping!!!

Finally some sneak peaks!!

2008-06-21T12:35:00.000+10:00

Ok so I have finally managed to get a couple of sneak peaks together!!

These sneak peaks are for the layouts that will be featured in the upcoming MaDscraps newsletter.

Keep your eyes open as I'm sure there will be something to entice everyone!!

Sneak Peaks Tonight!!!

2008-06-10T13:12:00.000+10:00

Ok, Ok, Ok........Sneak Peaks will be loaded tonight!!!

Have been flat chat and just realised that some lovely people left comments asking for them.....hehe!!!

Keep a look out tonight as they will be loaded......I promise!!!