Beyond An Addiction

Farewell My Beautiful Friend xoxo

2012-02-16T09:01:00.000+11:00

Monday was a day I had hoped would never come. Hearing the news that my friend had passed a week earlier was devastating, although inevitable. I had hoped and prayed that it was all just a bad dream. Because why would God take such a beautiful, loving, caring, funny (if not a little sarcastic), young vibrant mum. None of it makes sense and I'm sure never will.

Back in October when she was diagnosed, her world began to shatter. I was there at the hospital on that awful day, to see my Neurologist, when she told me the news. WTF?? No way!!! My doctors told me she would be ok. Young, healthy, got it early, only one tumor. How wrong were they?..... Three months on her life comes to an end and we are all left heartbroken and asking Why?

The one thing I will never understand is "Why should her beautiful children grow up without their mum?"

I made this canvas for her to take to Melbourne for her first surgery... so she had her kids to look at every time she opened her eyes. I know I did everything I could to help her.... but the only thing I really wanted to do was make it all go away.

RIP NIK. YOU WERE TRULY ONE OF THE BEST!!

Polly Scrap Kits Layouts

2012-02-15T20:45:00.000+11:00

Last month I purchased the kit from Polly Scrap Kits. It was great not to have to pull out any products other than the paint and just create..... When I scrap usually I have to select stuff from the shop for classes or else select what embellishments I want to use for my Kaiser work. Whilst I like selecting my own stuff it was nice not to have to.....

Here's what I created and still have quite a bit left... however its kinda scattered thru my scrap mess right now.

These photo's were taken at the Geelong Show in 2011. Everytime we see these trampolines the kids want to have a turn.

Happy Scrappin'

Shell

Stampin Up!! Displays

2012-02-15T19:28:00.000+11:00

This is the very first layout I have created using Stampin' Up! papers. The only thing that wasn't Stampin' Up! were the thickers. I have only done parties before where we have made cards but perhaps now I can teach layouts. The paper range is from the Sale-A-Bration catalogue Everyday Enchantment. The bonus is it is a freebie for all orders over $100, or you might prefer one of the four stamp sets on offer. I spent so much the last month or so I have got nearly all of them.... oops. But they were freeeee.

Here are some cards I made with the same range......

Everything except the buttons on the cards were by Stampin' Up.

If you are interested to learn more about Stampin' Up! or host a Demonstration I can be contacted on
0415 921759.

Happy Scrappin!!
Shell

NEW & LOCAL

2012-02-11T10:08:00.002+11:00

Kaiser Projects

2012-01-28T08:56:00.002+11:00

ON THE MOVE COLLECTION - DEC 11

DECEMBER 25 COLLECTION

I absolutely loved creating this layout. The papers were so easy to work with.I was especially happy with how this one turned out. It has a cute mini album in the bottom corner. It is on display at Create On Ormond along with other projects I created for Kaiser.

Family Canvas's for Friends

2012-01-28T08:50:00.000+11:00

The Kaiser Mag is out NOW

2011-11-25T08:10:00.000+11:00

and I'm very pleased to say I have got 7 projects featured. WOW. Cannot believe it. Pop into Create On Ormond to get your copy now.

December Workshop Magazine

Cheers for now,
Shell

STAMPIN' UP!

2011-10-24T11:16:00.001+11:00

Hi Everyone in Blog Land......

I have embarked on a new adventure I thought you should know about it.........

I have joined Stampin' Up! and become an Independent Demonstrator. If you have any questions or would like to see a catalogue you can call me on 0415 921759 or alternativeley email me at shelley.gioffre@bigpond.com

The catalogue can be viewed online at http://www3.stampinup.com/au/ena/543.asp

Catlogues can be purchased from me for $10. RRP is $12.95. As well as containing all the current products, it is jam packed with idea's and samples for inspiration.

I have placed my first order and I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my box of goodies. I am really excited to be involved with a company that offers such high quality products.

I will be placing an order around 15th November so if there is a special someone in your life (including YOU!!) that needs something special for christmas....... consider Stampin' Up!

Until next time!!!

Shelley

KAISERCRAFT

2011-09-15T08:04:00.000+10:00

Hi there,
Long time no see. I look at my blog often and see that I NEVER update it....... where are the blog fairies when you need them??

I just have a little bit of exciting news I wanted to share...... I have been asked to design for the Kaisercraft Workshop Magazine. Woo Hoo. How did that happen?? Everyone is always at me about subbing to the mags and I've just been happy cruising but when Mel asked me to do some stuff for them I just had to say yes!!! Look out for my work from December.

I am also joining Stampin' Up this week!!! Wow I've got a lot on. Hope I've still got time for washing and cooking LOL.

Cheers for now

2011-02-15T20:47:00.000+11:00

Projects from today

2011-01-13T19:12:00.000+11:00

The first layout is used with the first ever Storyboard kit I bought - Giselle. I was so excited when my parcel finally arrived. Hopefully more to come soon. Really enjoying my scrapping at the moment.
Cheers for now
Shell

Joe's Nonno turns 100!!

2011-01-13T18:36:00.001+11:00

Here's what we made for him.

What a fantastic achievement. 100 years old. Not many people get to celebate this milestone. It was such a special time for the family

100 years of wisdom. His eyes have seen a lot. Both good and bad and everything in between. The smile he gets when he see's his great grandchildren is just priceless.

Recent Work

2011-01-13T18:30:00.000+11:00

Tim Holtz Configurations

2011-01-13T18:26:00.000+11:00

Twiddleybitz Project

2011-01-13T18:21:00.000+11:00

Tim Holtz Configurations

2011-01-07T16:28:00.000+11:00

Shazza's 40th - 1920's Style

2010-08-13T17:10:00.000+10:00

2nd Tray for Class

2010-08-13T16:45:00.000+10:00

Printer Tray Class

2010-08-13T16:39:00.000+10:00

Here's some pics from one of the examples for the class running at Create on 21st August 10.30am.

BOOK NOW SO YOU DON'T MISS OUT.

My Poor Baby

2010-08-13T16:34:00.000+10:00

Well, it was always going to happen.... just a matter of time really. It's a good thing bones heal.

Pictures for Aggie

2010-07-11T10:46:00.000+10:00

Here is the Twiddleybitz picture box I made that is on display in the shop.

2010-04-10T19:12:00.000+10:00

New Stuff

2010-03-01T16:32:00.000+11:00

Happy 40th Neil

2010-02-21T17:49:00.000+11:00

Here is the 40 Album I made for Neil who just turned 18 with 22 years experience!!!!
All his friends and family at the party signed it for him and I've got some photo's from the night to put in it.... It's great to make a pressie that is appreciated.

Sassafras Lass

2010-02-21T17:17:00.000+11:00

I was very excited to be asked for a layout by Carole Janson for Aussie Scrap Source using the Monstrosity range. This paper was just so cute and easy to work with. I'm really happy with how it turned out. The little felties are just so adorable. I love this photo of Alex when he was just a wee bubba. It's nice to go back and scrap some of the older photo's in my collection as my style has changed so much since I originally started scrapping Alex's stuff.

Cheers
Shell

Today Maddi......

2010-02-21T16:42:00.003+11:00

found a lost dog roaming the street. She followed Maddi into the backyard and instantly both kids wanted to keep her. The worst part was is that she really looked like Diesel who we had to have put down.

Luckily the lost dogs home was open and we were able to drop her off. I hope her owners are looking for her. She was very old and looked to be in poor health. The kids were really good about it and I praised them up for saving her life and protecting her. I know they both desperately want another dog but I really am not a pet person and it is always me that has to be responsible for them.

I wish someone would

2010-02-11T22:19:00.001+11:00

LEAVE ME A COMMENT so I know it's worth continuing on with my blog.......

Fun at Adventure Park

2010-02-08T21:22:00.000+11:00

Just before the school holidays came to an end we were lucky enough to go to a birthday party at Adventure Park. The kids had been wanting to go for a year or two and I thought Maddi was old enough now to make it worthwhile. They had an absolute blast. It's fairly pricey but the kids would say well and truly worth it. It was great seeing them have so much fun. Big thanks to Wendy and Russell for the invite.

Grrrr. I'm giving up defeated

2010-02-08T21:14:00.001+11:00

well for tonight anyways. Cannot work out how to get my title saved in the correct position on my new banner. Facebooking is sooooo much easier!!!!

Cheers for now
Shell

A Day on the Green - Rob Thomas

2010-02-08T18:57:00.000+11:00

I am so lucky to be able to work at these events. This one would have been the best I think. We were finished early in the wine tent so got to go out into the crowd and see most of Rob Thomas. UNfortunately I didn't get any photo's of Vanessa Amarosi but we got to hear it all. I also got to have my photo taken with Joel Selwood who was just so very charming. He was the cherry on top of a great day.

Cheers
Shell

Trying out the new camera....

2010-02-08T18:43:00.000+11:00

I have been trying out the new camera hoping to familiarise myself with the settings. Thank goodness Maxine has bought one too. I know she'll get it sorted for me and teach me something new each week.

If you have any advise for me please leave a message. It's a Panasonic Lumix TZ7.

Cheers
Shell

2010-02-02T08:10:00.000+11:00

Something a bit different

2010-02-02T08:08:00.000+11:00

Crop 4 A Cause

2009-07-12T09:56:00.004+10:00

What a fantastic day we had. Even though I got there later than usual I was able to achieve a lot, as well as having a great time with great friends!!!!

Only did one layout I didn't really like and had lots of fun (and frustration) adapting one of Kristina's cards into a layout. Think I got it on my second attempt!!!!

I also had fun using Kaisers new ranges....
Two of my favourites were Penny Royale and Loire Valley....

Got a couple more to show but will be back to do that!!!
Have a great day
XXXXX

2009-07-06T08:25:00.000+10:00

Here is the link to our Calendar of classes at Create on Garden!
http://www.emailcontact.com/calendar/view/4489

2009-07-05T11:21:00.000+10:00

Thanks Marelle for the awesome photos

2009-07-05T11:17:00.000+10:00

Keep up the great work Love!!!!!

Heritage Layout using Dutchess by Kaisercraft

2009-07-05T11:13:00.000+10:00

THE PERGOLA

2009-06-19T21:34:00.001+10:00

How exciting. It's built. Just need to finish off the painting, install the heater and do a little decorating.

A very big thank-you to Ivan and Terry from Newtown Builders. Cannot recommend these guys enough.

2009-06-19T21:27:00.000+10:00

Aw, ain't she a cutie!!!!

2009-06-19T21:22:00.000+10:00

Cannot wait to get me scrapping hands on this one. Snapped it tonight at Auskick. I am sure the girls have more fun than the boys.

I've been told it's time for an update.......

2009-06-04T10:02:00.004+10:00

Well it's taken me a month to get back, and I have been asked several times when am I going to update my blog...... So here I am. Life is just so hectic. Everyday seems to be full.

Where is this life of leisure I envisioned for this year with both kids at school????? Have had to cancel the majority of my commitments both this week and last due to illness. DS7 has had tonsillitis and now I've got something. As long as its not swine flu :( So everyone out there not feeling great (and let's face it, that is probably most of us) hope you're feeling better soon.

I was thrilled to be asked to create an album for Father Kevin Dillon from St. Mary's Basilica for his 40th year in the priesthood. It was an honour to be trusted with such treasured photo's. It turned out really well and has inspired me to start to do a few more lo's just for me!!!!

Here is one I just completed:

And a big thanks to Juzzy, who just knew I needed a little pick me up. Friends like you don't come along every day!!!

I had a lovely day trip with Marelle (aka Louise - that would make me Thel hahaha) to meet the gorgeous Kathie and her delightful husband Peter. Kathie runs Scraphappy Kat http://scraphappykat.blogspot.com/ I recently joined Kathies DT and cannot wait for the next challenge she sets me!!!

I need to go now, but will be back very soon to update again......
hugs
Shell

P.S. I am loving the Cricut..... It is the best ever. Marisa just bought me some pens and the deep cut blades so cannot wait to have a fiddle.....

Oh yeah... for those of you that haven't been in to the new shop CREATE ON GARDEN... you need to!!!!

Check out the photography at.......

2009-05-05T15:57:00.001+10:00

Kipindi Photography

Dannii does amazing work. You should go check her out. Great outdoor shots at fabulous prices!!!!!!
http://www.kipindiphotography.com:80/blog/

They currently have a give3away running so now is the time to visit and leave Dannii a comment.

TWO BIG ANNOUNCEMENTS!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-21T16:18:00.002+10:00

I can now tell you all my exciting news.

I have had a very hectic few days, starting last week with a road trip where I went to meet Kathie from Scraphappy Kat

http://scraphappykat.blogspot.com/

. I am so excited to be joining their team. It was an absolute pleasure to meet the girls on Friday night.
Thanks for the opportunity to be a part of the team Kathie!!!!

And on the home front............
for those of you who haven't heard along the grapevine.... Last weekend and all this week I have been helping to move
CREATE ON GARDEN
into our new and improved premises. We are just next door to where we were in Garden Street, East Geelong but the new location is FANTASTIC!!!!! It is soooooo roomy. To say I am excited would be a grose under estimation. You have to come on in and see for yourself. It is well and truly worth the trip.

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!!!!!

2009-04-12T11:07:00.001+10:00

Hope you have an egg-cellent day..........
with family and friends...

My First Design Team

2009-04-03T21:39:00.001+11:00

Woo Hoo
Fill you in when I get more info.....

What a THRILL

2009-04-03T16:36:00.006+11:00

How lucky I feel to have met my BIGGEST IDOL ever. Carole Jansen is not only a fantastic scrapper but such a genuine person. Thanks Carole for making my time at SIA that bit more special!!!

We were also lucky enough to attend a class with Ngaire Bartlam. She too was so open and friendly. These girls are just awesome. I think of them as celebrities but they are just 'normal' people like you and me.....

And we again caught up with the lovely Lorraine Bate.

We Are Off

2009-03-30T13:23:00.001+11:00

Tonite Marelle and I are leaving for SIA. To say we are excited would be an understatement!!!!!!!

Hopefully upon our return we will have lots of exciting stuff to share with you in the store. Wish me luck. It's my first time in Sydney.
WOO HOO

P.S. Sorry I've been a slack blogger.

My latest creation.

2009-03-24T14:12:00.000+11:00

I really enjoyed this one. Used We R Memory Keepers paper, decorative brads, Kaiser flourish frame, Lil Davis and Thickers Alpha's. This will be running as a techniques class at Create on Garden (obviously)...... Stay tuned for a date......

New Layouts

2009-02-24T11:12:00.003+11:00

Well It's Official

2009-02-13T17:33:00.002+11:00

We are going to SIA!!!!!!!!

Marelle and I are booked in to go to Sydney. We are both so VERY excited. We are hoping to learn lots of new techniques and see all the latest and greatest products and even order some for the shop. YAY....... What a fabulous opportunity.

A Beautiful Award from a Lovely Lady.........

2009-02-07T07:49:00.004+11:00

Thanks Kathie http://scraphappykat.blogspot.com/
for this beautiful award........
My 3 blogs that I am awarding this award to are:
Marelle http://myscrapmusings.blogspot.com/ because she has a beautiful spirit and heart
Al http://allovesscrapping-al.blogspot.com/ because she is a beautiful scrapper
Dannii http://bestfamilyblogs.typepad.com/kipindi_photography/ because she takes the most beautiful photo's.... Seriously, go check for yourself!!!!!!
Right mouse click on award and save into your pictures. Then post it onto your blog with your 3 new blogging friends addresses and that is it!!
Cheers for now....
Shell

I'm A Bit EXCOITED!!!!!!!

2009-02-07T07:46:00.003+11:00

Because I think I might be going to SIA!!!!!!!!!!!
Stay tuned........

Happy February Everyone!!!!!

2009-02-03T11:13:00.004+11:00

School is back......... and today is my first day by myself. I just wish I was feeling healthier but hey, there's always next week.

just realised I haven't shown you my very first attemp using Heidi's masks so here goes

.

You can come along to a class and learn these techniques on 25th February.

Yummy goodies..............

2009-01-31T15:19:00.000+11:00

HERE'S WHY I'M A LUCKY GIRL

2009-01-31T14:57:00.003+11:00

Last night I went to Kaisercrafts fundraiser.................
and I was lucky enough to win the fabulous raffle. Many thanks to the team at Kaiser for the wonderful prize. Sincere apologies to Hayley and Mienna, and Justine and Helen. I know you really wanted the prize for yourselves.
It really brightened up my day. Was feeling dreadful but still wanted to attend, so I was probably a bit grumpy... Sorry guys.

Just been to the doctors and I have a kidney infection, so now I know why I was feeling so down. We all battled the heat and power cuts to raise money for a sick little boy. Well done girls a great effort to raise money for Liam and his family. Kaiser are fabulous in their fundraising efforts and if you ever get the opportunity to attend a Crop 4 a Cause I thoroughly recommend you go. It's a fabulous day out scrapping and chatting and making new friends.

I'M A LUCKY GIRL.................

2009-01-30T23:48:00.000+11:00

I'll show you why in the morning...........

Be back in a few days........

2009-01-26T07:50:00.003+11:00

Hi all,
Not long left of the school holidays now.........yippeeee.......
We are off to Ballarat for a few days, to enjoy the swelteing heat in a cabin.. I hope the air con is working well. It's going to be very hot EVERY day we are there. We are going to have a relaxing time by the pool and just take it easy, not something either Joe or myself do well. Can't wait to check out the Imagination Factory:) It won't be too hot for that...lol. Going to take my Heidi masks and do some experimenting.

Marelle called yesterday to chat and tell me her darling Ella is still not well. If we didn't need our ears so badly I would think hers needed to be amputated:( they cause her so many troubles. Here's a big hug from me honey. Get well soon.......

Have a great week everyone.
Stay cool in the heat.

FUNDRAISER for a little 10 year old boy ...

2009-01-21T16:22:00.002+11:00

I spoke to Chez at Kaisercraft today and she informed me of a fundraiser/crop was being held on FRIDAY 30TH JANUARY for a dear little boy. I have done a copy and paste from Al's blog(hope that's ok Al x) so here is the information. Please please PLEASE come along and help this family out.

Liam Foster is 10 years old, is one of ten children to Mary & Greg Foster and he is suffering a brain tumour. Liam recently had surgery to remove the tumour but they weren't able to get it all. On the 22nd Dec he commenced an eight week course of Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy at the Peter McCallum Institute in Melbourne. Liam and his family reside outside Meredith near Geelong.

Audra Mee (a friend of the family,) is raising much needed funds to help his parents cope with additional medical and associated expenses and we would like to help her by holding a crop night on the 30th January 2009.COST: $5 per person. Time 6.30 til 10PM.
Please bring a plate to share and non perishable item for hamper.

BOOKING ARE ESSENTIAL and can be made by calling Kaisercraft Ph: 5222 3965

We will be holding a raffle to be drawn on the night and door prizes.

That's all the info I have at the moment. Please give Kaiser a call if you need further details.

Wow it's been hot....

2009-01-21T08:50:00.003+11:00

Keeping really busy this week. I know I have to get the kids back into their early to bed routine but it is just so hard. They are up til nearly nine every night. With only a bit over a week til school goes back (yay...) they will have to be in bed much earlier. We are off to pick up school books today. Very exciting for Maddi being her first year at school and all. She LOVES books and stationery...just like her mum..... but she cannot touch the books because they have to go back to the school. We get to cover her reader cover. She wanted Dora contact but I really wanted to scrap it pretty..... Who will win????

We went to the pool in Ocean Grove on Monday. For anyone who wants to fill in some time over the holidays I highly recommend it. It was fabulous. They have a kiddie waterslide and little climby thingo in the centre of the kids pool. We were there nearly five hours which is huge for us as 2 hours at Splashdown is more than enough for me.

Maddi and I went to Marelles yesterday so I could learn the techniques she learnt at Heidi. I'm afraid my natural lack of patience held me back a little at the beginning but I really love the effect and want to try more.

Got to get ready. We are meeting all the girls at Run-a-muk today. We have been trying to get all together for weeks and today is the day we can all make it. Hope its not too hot in there.

Have a great day all......
Stay cool

Happy Birthday to Miss Maddi

2009-01-09T15:38:00.003+11:00

Well I cannot believe that my baby is 5 today.......
Her party is over.....well, the friend one anyway.... family tonite and I'm tired. They were up at 6.10 this morning which was a shock to the system.... the earliest we have been up all holidays is 8am. Hope tomorrow is back to sleeping in. lol.

Love you Maddi and I'm grateful you made it thru your party without knocking your chin!!!!!! A few of my friends got a good look at how adventurous and daring my miss Maddi really is today......

Shell
XXXX

Another Award!!!!

2009-01-09T15:21:00.003+11:00

Many thanks to Kathie http://www.scraphappykat.blogspot.com/

This is called The Proximity Award."These blogs invest and believe in PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships! These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers, who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."

so here are the blog nominations:
http://www.myscrapmusings.blogspot.com/
http://allovesscrapping-al.blogspot.com/
http://livewelllaughoftenlovemuchleavememory.blogspot.com/
http://carolejansons.blogspot.com/
http://janeettiajones.blogspot.com/
http://liveoutloud-lissy.blogspot.com/
http://bestfamilyblogs.typepad.com/kipindi_photography/page/2/

Shelley
XXXXX

What is your word for 2009

2009-01-07T16:13:00.002+11:00

Well my gorgeous friend Marelle had this on her blog and I thought it was a great idea. So after much reflection my word is
MODERATION
It seems I don't have much of this in any aspect of my life. It's usually all or nothing with me. So I am with Marelle, I am striving this year to have a life which balances every aspect - so now that both the kiddies are at school I should be able to comfortably fit EVERYTHING into my life - social, physical, emotional...... oh yeah and housework.......

So I would love to know what your WORD for 09 is and how you will achieve it...... and if you've got some tips to help me find moderation in my life feel free to let the advice run free (esp food orientated)!!!!!!

Somebody PLEASE Help Me

2009-01-07T16:10:00.002+11:00

Why is it everytime my kids get within arms reach they gotta start fighting. Finding it really hard today. Maddi has to take it really easy because the stitches are out of her chin and they are bored....... I'm trying to clean up and get stuff ready for Maddi's party Friday and have to keep the kids separated......GRRRRRR.....

Christmas Collage

2009-01-07T13:02:00.003+11:00

Thanks to Al for sharing her secrets. Just wanted to try a collage out, so here's some pics from Christmas Day.......

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!

2009-01-02T11:27:00.002+11:00

Hi there everyone,
Hope you all an absolutely fabulous christmas and new year.
Ours was rather uneventful...... that is until dd4 split her chin open on new years eve and ended up with 5 stitches. Kids are so resilient. I spent yesterday feeling very washed out and hung over after very little to drink and Maddi just wanted to go on as if nothing had happened.

I haven't had much scrapping mojo over the break and hope I find some soon because I have got to organise classes for Create on Garden NOW!!!!! Call in to the shop to check out the new look. Marisa has been busy over the holiday break and has made some changes. I am going in soon to check it out.
That's all for now.
BEST WISHES TO YOU ALL FOR A SUPER 2009
S

Two More Sleeps

2008-12-23T21:56:00.002+11:00

What can I say???? Nearly organised. Thank goodness. One more pressie to finish scrapping and I'm done. Maddi just asked me tonight if she could open a present since it was nearly time!!! Love the effort hay. A girls gotta try!!!

Cheers for now.
S

A Special Blog Award

2008-12-23T21:45:00.003+11:00

Thanks to Kathie for the lovely award.

And my awards are presented to, in no particular order:
http://www.myscrapmusings.blogspot.com/
http://livewelllaughoftenlovemuchleavememory.blogspot.com/
http://janeettiajones.blogspot.com/
http://bestfamilyblogs.typepad.com/kipindi_photography/
http://allovesscrapping-al.blogspot.com/
http://liveoutloud-lissy.blogspot.com/

Have a great day all you lovely ladies.
Shell

Five more Sleeps to go.

2008-12-20T18:12:00.003+11:00

Well it still doesn't really feel like Christmas to me but nonetheless it is still happening.

Worked today and came home to a few more jobs - you know the ones hubbies don't do - laundry and mopping the floors. Then it's time to scrap. YAY.

Today I'm a REALLY Proud Mum!!!!!

2008-12-20T18:08:00.003+11:00

Just dropping in for a little brag about dd4. Every year hubbys work runs a colouring comp for the kiddies and send home a chrissie gift and letter from santa on the last day of work. DD4 won the 1-6 girls age group. She got a whopping big sandta sack full of gifts - hair ties, bunnykins mug, moneybox, lots of crafty stuff, books, barbie and choccies just to name a few. Thanks so much to Drapers. She was very excited. A scrapbooker of the future!!!!

2008-12-19T19:59:00.001+11:00

Pressie for Marelle.

2008-12-19T19:45:00.001+11:00

Marelle and the girls came over for tea last night to catch up and see me for my birthday. I gave her this little pressie for xmas and she gave me one of the best pressies I ever got (lol - don't tell mum that). She got me a signed bag by none other than Heidi Swapp. I am one very lucky girl. The bag had some really lovely scrapping goodies in it too. That girl really knows the way to my heart hehhehehhe.

I also got a bit excited today because I got to go into the Kaiser design room. Those design girls are just so lucky. Got a few sneak peeks too. Go Kaiser- you rock.

Santa Photo's with 6 more sleeps

2008-12-19T19:39:00.000+11:00

Well it is officially school holidays now. I took my kids in tonight to have their photo with Santa. I really like this one.

7 sleeps to go

2008-12-18T14:09:00.002+11:00

OMG my baby just finished her last session of kinder!!!!! I now have two big school kids. How excitement. Bring on 2009. Hope the school holidays are bearable and everyone survives them - LOL.

The gorgeous Marelle and her girls are coming for tea. Haven't seen her in over a week. Cannot wait for her to fill me in on the Heidi event.

No pics for now. I'm struggling to find the time to scrap. That doesn't happen often - thank goodness.

8 more sleeps

2008-12-17T08:07:00.002+11:00

I cannot believe that this time next week it will be christmas eve. I have not posted one card yet!! Perhaps this mornings job.

I don't have much news. Working Marelle's shift this afternoon as she will be too tired after HEIDI. She is so lucky. I hope she got some great pointers and techniques to share!!!

Been working on a couple of classes for 'Create on Garden' so will hopefully have some pics very soon.

Have a great day.

10 Sleeps to go

2008-12-15T16:34:00.004+11:00

Well christmas is coming up fast and I still don't feel organised. I still have a few pressies to finish off and for the first time ever thre will be christmas meals at our house!!!
Marelle asked if I could make yet another one of my chrissy tree's - which I am so over after all of the classes. Since I tend to be a people pleaser I said yes and then had a brain wave. I made myself a new one and sold the old one (it's fairly new too). I got my inspiration for the new one from the gorgeous and very talented Jane Jones. Thanks Jane. I like my new one so much more. I just have to add the pressies under the tree and I'm done. Here's a peek.

And here is a canvas. I used canvas photo paper to print the picture of Maddi's eyes.

My newest moto is "don't stress over the silly season". People are getting uptight over a day that is supposed to be about fun and family, so relax and enjoy!!!!
Cheers for now.

New Stuff

2008-12-08T19:54:00.002+11:00

These were two of the projects I FINISHED at Crop4acause. Nothing wlse was completed in full, so more to come.

Is it 2009 yet?

2008-12-08T14:08:00.002+11:00

Just not sure if I can cope with the craziness of December much longer.

Saturday was Crop4acause and had a fabulous time. I got a lot of stuff done for the shop. Sometimes it is hard to find the time to sit down and get things done at home (not thru lack of trying tho - lol). Sat with my partner in crime (aka Marelle) and got to know a few people a little better - the Kaiser team mostly - which was great. We laughed so much I hardly had a voice by the time I got home. Thanks all for an awesome day. It was great to make it to the 'A table" as Mel so kindly put it.

So anyway, after the crop I wa having some trouble turning my little mind off and getting to sleep, which was really annoying. But you know what was more annoying?
.... I was ALMOST asleep at 1am when I heard dd4 vomitting - on her carpet no less.
Yep, no sleep for me tonite. She vomitted 3 times during the night and insisted yesterday that she was ok to come on our family picnic/chrismas thingy. So she came but today she is just worn out and complaining of pains in the tummy. Tomorrow is her last day of prep orientation so I hope she is well enough to go! !!!

Be back later with some pics.

What? December Already!!!!!

2008-12-03T08:12:00.002+11:00

Cannot possibly be. Have been busy scrapping and working away. I know i'm not alone when I say life is REALLY hectic at this time of year.

Anyways, my baby had her first school orientation yesterday. She was soooo excited (me too). She went off in her school skorts and pig tails and I didn't get a photo. And I call myself a scrapper!!! lol. She went really well and I was excited to find out that she will have the same prep teacher Alex had, and she is just fabo.
Bring on next year.

Only one more sleep til Marelle, Julie and I go to the Fiskars outlet. Instead of scrapping on Thursday we are taking a road trip to the big city and doing lunch and shopping. Sounds good to me.

Marisa asked me if I can be class co-ordinator at the shop so now I have to get started on organising some classes for the new year. Really love working at Create. Who would not enjoy working in a job that they are passionate about.

Remember to take a deep breath and don't get too stressed in the silly season.
Over and out,
Shell

P.S. Have got some finished work but cannot post it cos it's for an Online DT Comp!!! Wish me luck.

Kaiser Projects

2008-11-28T21:09:00.002+11:00

I picked up my 100 to 1 entries today since they have finished with them. I was most excited yesterday to find out that my btp project is posted on the kaisercraft website ( my first taste of publication)!!!
Here's the link: Kaisercraft
Now to decide what to do with it or who to give it too!!!

I've been tagged!!!!

2008-11-28T20:41:00.005+11:00

Thanks Deb.

The Rules are:
1. Add a link to the person who tagged you
2. Post the rules on your blog
3. List 6 random things about yourself
4. Tag 6 people at the end of your post
5. Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog
My 6 randon things about myself.....
* Loving my first scrapping job at Create on Garden.
* I start way too many projects at the one time and wonder why my space is a MESS.
* My father passed away nearly five years ago and I miss him terribly.
* Both my kids will be at school next year!!!! yay
* I think I have an addiction issue - scrapping, handbags, food etc etc
* I hate pea's cooked but love them straight from the garden.

Now I have to tag some of you ladies....
Firstly the gorgeous Marelle, and Skye and I don't really have anyone else to tag as the Kaiser DT blogs and these guys are the main blogs I check. No-one else will know me.
Have a great day.

Get into the Spirit of Christmas

2008-11-25T22:10:00.003+11:00

My girlie weekend has been and gone

2008-11-20T11:25:00.003+11:00

The gorgeous Lauren!!
What a fantastic weekend we had. It was great to get to know my friends just that little bit better. It is enlightening to know we have all been through stuff and have come out the other end and will be there for one another. I feel truly blassed that these people are in my life!!!!

It has taken me a while to recover from the sleep deprivation ( I was not loving all my friends so much at 2.30am whilst I had been in bed for over an hour trying to sleep with no success) but i'm getting there now.

Thanks girls, can't wait for the next one!!!!!

All the gang but Julie's missing. What a hoot!!!

Here's to FANTASTIC FRIENDS

2008-11-09T00:56:00.001+11:00

Wish Julie was in this one too!!!!

Layout for Scrap Off

2008-11-09T00:52:00.003+11:00

WOW

2008-11-09T00:40:00.002+11:00

Well I can't sleep. Keep thinking of what I could have done differntly in the short time frame for Round 2. Yes friends, that's right. I made it thru to 2. I was very happy. Not only did I get thru on my BTP project I also got into the top 10 with my Layout. That was more than I was hoping for, especially seeing the quality of the scrappers there on the day.

A BIG concrats also to the gorgeous Marelle for getting thru to Round 2. Not a bad effort for the "Create On Garden" girls. And congrats also to the winners and top 5 Their creations were fabulous.

Had a chat with Lorraine Bate from Scrapbook Creations. She was awesome. Offered some great advise in regarad to getting work published. That must be the next goal!!
Thanks everone for a great day and lets hope they get more up and running.

Kaiser Scrap Off TODAY

2008-11-08T08:47:00.003+11:00

Well today is the day. It's Kaisers 100 to 1 scrap off and although they haven't got 100 participants it should still be an awesome day. It is my goal to get into Round 2. I was really happy with my project so hopefully that will get me through!!!! Marelle, Juzzy and Jooles are coming along and Marelle is very excited to be meeting Lorraine Bates from Scrapbook Creations.

Had a real 'dumb' moment yesterday whilst it was pouring that precious rain. I locked my keys in the car at school pick-up. At times like that you really realise what great friends we have. I had people who I don't 'hang' with socially that offered a ride etc. Thanks everyone!!! I am most fortunate to have a fabulous circle of friends. More than I had hoped for.

Have a great day and wish me well.
Shell

The Amazing Carole Jansen

2008-11-03T11:30:00.004+11:00

Well, those of you who know me know I absolutely love Carole Jansens work. I was lucky enought to get my hands on two of her gorgeous handmade chrissy cards - not to send to anyone - for me to keep as inspiration. Thanks to my extraordinary friend Marelle for organising a fundraiser which Carole donated to. So many fabulous scrappers contributed to this cause. Thanks so much to everyone for helping Marelle reach her target.

Another Weekend Over

2008-11-03T11:16:00.003+11:00

Well guys it's another week closer to christmas and time to think about getting organised. I was a wee bit sad when I woke this morning cos I realised that this time in two weeks our girls weekend will be all over with and I will have to find something else to look forward too. Good thing I've got Kaiser Crop for a Cause coming up. LOL.

I did spend a very large portion of the weekend in my scrap room which is always a good thing, however, the majority was cleaning it up!!! DH asked me to do something about the mess - and truth be told my workspace was out of control - so in I go, any excuse. I did find lots of bits and bobs I forgot I had though. I did get one layout completed though.

Hope you all have a great day.

Happy Birthday Brooke

2008-10-31T07:56:00.000+11:00

Well today is Halloween which means nothing to me but most importantly it is Brooke's Birthday - who means a lot to me!!!!

Looking forward to a great day celebrating with some fun women.

I have got an exciting couple of weeks coming up. Next weekend is the Kaisercraft Scrap-off which should be great fun. The weekend after I am going away with six great chicks - Vicki, Juzzy, Lauren, Julie, Lynda and Monica has just found out she can come along too. We have got a big house in Anglesea to go to. Cannot wait.

Go to go get the kiddies ready for school.
Have a great day everyone.

2008-10-30T15:51:00.000+11:00

2008-10-29T07:35:00.000+11:00

Refreshed Blog

2008-10-29T07:17:00.000+11:00

Hi There,
For the few of you who check out my blog I had to delete my last one because I fiddled around with crappy web graphics late at night that could not be removed so I started again.

Not a lot of news. Still not leaving myself much/any spare time but having a blast anyhows. Really excited because I have been offered another shift at Create on Garden which is what I was wanting. From this week on I will be in ther Saturday mornings and Tuesday from 2PM. This will be a hard one to juggle with the kids but thank god for great friends.

Cannot believe it is almost November and only a month til my baby does school orientation. She is so excited. Maybe I was kidding myself to say I would not be upset when she went to school.

No more news for now. Just want to put some of my recent layouts up 0 for you Shaz although they are probably ones you've already seen!!!

Have a great day,
Shell