Pink Flowers & Bling

A Happy Ending & JAI 68 - Color Challenge

2011-05-22T11:32:00.008+10:00

Way back when entering a JAI challenge with THIS card, I somehow misplaced my Square Lattice Embossing folder.

I searched high & low - was it amongst my scraps? So I sorted and filed all my bits, still no luck. Was it among the DSP - resorted & organised? OK so lets go through all the embellishments, the book case, the catties, anywhere really.

Now keep in mind it went missing back in January!!!!! 4 Months ago!

I desperately wanted to use it to make my swaps for convention, but it was nowhere to be found - Until after Convention of course! I opened a box that contained samples I'd made for a Christmas Fundraiser and there it was!!!! Yay - so excited! So of course I had to use it.

Funny though how we all see things differently - my daughters comment was "I don't really like that - looks like Hospital Crosses" think she means First Aid! LOL

This weeks challenge at Just Add Ink is a colour challenge
During convention I was lucky enough to meet most of the JAI Team - it was really nice to meet them in real life & get to know them a little. They really are a lovely group of ladies.

Anyway on with the challenge - here's my creation:

Thanks for stopping by,

Corinna

Card Recipe:

Stamps: Cat & Bag Stamp (non SU), Oval All, Tiny Tags.

Inks/Cardstock: Baja Breeze, Pear Pizazz, Perfect Plum, Whispher White, Pear Pizazz DSP

Other: Border Punch (non SU), Scallop Oval Punch, Oval Punch, Tiny Tag Punch, Organza Ribbon, Dazzling Diamonds, Blender Pen, Non SU Crystal Pin. Jewels - Rhinestones & Pearls, Square Lattice Embossing Folder, Crystal Effects, Water Colour Paper,

Stampin' Up! Melbourne Convention 2011

2011-05-22T11:06:00.005+10:00

Wow! I've had 3 fantastic days attending convention!!!

Upon arrival we checked in and recieved all of these fantastic goodies, including two gorgeous stamps sets, since they are out of the new catty they must be disguised for now!

I had the chance to meet & chat with so many wonderful friendly & talented stampers. We also had the opportunity to meet Shelli and many SU staff who all contributed so much to make Conventions so amazing!

The presentations, classes & Workshop Wows were fantastic leaving me inspired, enthusiastic and re-energised.

The sample boards showcasing many swaps were just as inspiring - so much talent. We were also spoilt by so many sneek peeks of stamps etc that will be in our new catty, there is one condition though - we gotta keep it under wraps until they are revealed to all by SU.

Towards the end of the final session Shelli announced we'd all receive a new Simply Sent Card Kit. Needless to say we were all rapt.

Not long after she recalled a stamp set that she'd shown during one of her stamping presentations & then surprised us all by announcing that we'd all get to take one home!! So generous! My daughter loves this one in particular & has made some really cute cards already.

Do you wanna see the set? - of course you do but they're Top Secret too!

The Awards Recognition Banquet was absolutely scrumptious, and it was fantastic to cheer on fellow demos who've been recognised for their achievements.

I attended convention with my fantastic friend Nikki whom I don't get to catch up with often enough these days, so that was the icing on the cake.

Well I guess this has really just been a teaser for those who haven't attended. Sorry!

Thanks for stopping by,

Corinna

JAI 65 - Just Add Mateship/Friendship for ANZAC DAY

2011-04-26T14:36:00.005+10:00

What a fantastic theme for this weeks challenge at Just Add Ink.

Here's my entry, a quick and simple card:

I used the Colours of that are represented in both the Australian and New Zealand Flags.

After looking at some of the other entries I see I'm not the only one who feels the friendship of a boy and his dog represents this theme perfectly.

Thanks for stopping by,

Corinna

Card Recipe - All SU unless noted.

Stamps - Non Su Dog & Boy, Think Happy Thoughts

Cardstock/DSP: Whispher White, Pacific Point DSP, Real Red.

Ink: Basic Black

Other: 1 1/4 & 1 3/8 inch circle Punches, Jumbo Eyelet, Crop-o-dile, Riding Hood Red Ribbon, Non SU Die, Twine

JAI Ink # 64 - Chocolate Wrapper Challenge

2011-04-20T15:57:00.007+10:00

Dear Guillotine,

I am really enjoying my holidays, but I am missing you & all of our papercrafting buddies.

Please rest up because I will be home soon, and you'll all be getting a workout when I get back.

Love a Deprived Papercrafting Addict. xoxo

7 nights ago we headed off on a family holiday which was arranged around my baby cousins wedding last Saturday - which was just perfect.

I thought I'd prepared well, House/Cat sitter organised, my paid work up to date, house nice & clean, clothes packed, snacks/drinks for the long drives, some line art, pencils, markers etc.

It soon became evident I had underestimated the free time I would have & what do I like to do in my free time? I like to create!

I recently acquired an iPhone which I love and this has allowed me to check in on my fav blogs & check emails (mostly Stamping related). It soon became too much temptation/inspiration, but there are no craft shops around!!!! What's a gal to do???

First I purchased a cardmaking magazine thinking it may help - nope, but it did come with papers. I've never actually used the freebie papers before because they don't really appeal but I am desperate!!!!

Just Add Ink's Challenge this week is to be inspired by the colours in your favourite Chocolate Bar Wrapper.

Anyone who knows me knows I love peppermint in all it's forms - particularly Cadbury Mint Chocolate so I picked up a block of the Bubbly to use with this challenge. The Green Gingham paper seemed to suit - but I needed more supplies!!!

So I popped into the local "Chicken Feed" discount store & managed a pack of cheap (semi glossy?) cardstock - fortunately the purple was close enough for Cadbury Purple, and the brown was close to chocolate. They also stocked 3 essentials - Scissors, Bling & double sided tape.

I coloured this cute little gal in colours to match & voila! But it needed something - a Scallop Border courtesy of a 20cent coin & my sketch book paper. You might think I had some Crumb Cake C/stock, but nope that's my Grain Bar box. The ribbon was from the hang up bits I cut off my new top.

Here's the result. . . . .

Don't look too close though as the edges are rough & not one is really straight, hence my heartfelt letter to my precious (straight & even) guillotine. . . .

One more sleep & I'll be home, even better I will actually have some time to play with my toys....

Thanks for dropping by. . . .

Corinna

Just Add Ink Challenge #62 - Just Add A Box or Bag

2011-04-03T11:15:00.005+10:00

What a fabulous surprise to find I was given a

Honourable Mention

for my entry to last weeks Just Add Ink challenge.

Wow! there were so many wonderful entries! - Thanks so very much!

Thanks for all the inspiration too - I doubt I'd have created so many things AND blogged about them without these challenges!

Now this week Just Add Ink have challenged us to make a bag or a box.

I started with a Square Scallop Die thinking I'd make a box, but as you can see I ended up using the Scallop Circle Die instead.

As it came together I thought it'd make a really sweet was to present a Lindt Chocolate Bunny, so I pulled out the Easter Blossoms set and decorated it with Eggs.

I've recently purchased a new silhouette stamp and decided to make a card to co-ordinate with the Easter Basket/Bag.

Here's a closer look at the card - I pulled out my brads, ribbon, Sizzlets, punches, sponges - appreciated them a lot more after last weeks challenge restricted me from using them.

Thanks for looking

Corinna

Recipe:

All Items Stampin'Up! unless noted

Stamps: Non SU Silhouette Stamp, Easter Blossoms, Great Friend,

Cardstock: Very Vanilla, Crumb Cake, Blushing Bride DSP

Inks/Markers: Blushing Bride, Pretty In Pink, Pear Pizazz

Tools/Other: Scallop Circle Die, Circle Cutter, Polka Dot Embossing Folder, Pretty In Pink Taffeta Ribbon, Sponges, Filigree Brad, Pretty In Pink Brad, Sticky Strip, Dimensionals, Lots of Tags Label 1 sizzlet.

Non SU Corner Rounder

Just Add Ink Challenge #61 - Just Add Stamps

2011-03-27T17:43:00.006+11:00

This weeks challenge over at Just Add Ink it to simply "Just Add Stamps". Sounds simple enough? Was it? Noooooo!!!! - not at all, for me anyway.

Started Friday Night with a few ideas, spent 48 hours going back and forth, then after much indecision, I stuck it all together and decided I didn't like it much at all. I was planning to share it with you anyway but either Photoshop or my PC didn't think it was good enough and froze.

They did let me edit the second card, which was created really quickly in comparison to the first.

I used a stamp set I bought ages & ages ago, that probably hasn't seen much ink. I also used the most challenging SU colour - for me anyway - Soft Suede. Not the best colouring in the world by any stretch but I used my blender pens and ink more successfully than I've done in past so I'm OK with that.

This was a really good challenge and it makes you see how dependant you become on punches, Brads, Ribbon etc. I kept wondering how to improve my designs & all those extras kept popping in my head. So to keep within the rules I added a paper ribbon.

Thanks for popping by,

Corinna

Recipe:

Non SU Stamps - Butterfly, Blossom, Symbol of Dream.

SU Stamps - Sanded Background

All Other Supplies Stampin'Up

Inks - Pretty In Pink, Tangerine Tango, Pretty In Pink

Cardstock - Soft Suede, Tangerine Tango, Whispher White

Other - Blender Pen, Adhesive

This challenge does make typing up the recipe quicker though LOL!!!!

A gift of the New Stampin'Up! In-Colors . . . .

2011-03-24T13:39:00.006+11:00

LOL I hope I didn't get you too excited. No I've no special news on the new SU In-Colors, I'm actually sharing the gift I prepared for my friend when we celebrated the arrival of the latest set of Colors - yes - way back in September last year!

A cute card using the then new owl punch, a 6x6 stack of the InColor DSP, and a sweet little butterfly embellished box.

Do you want to see what's inside the box? Chocolates? No even better calorie free. . .But I did present them like choccies in little patty papers and the box had a special paper lining, like what you find in all the best boxes of choccies.

I included a length of each of the new ribbons and a sampling of the Antique Brads.

Thanks for stopping by,

Corinna

All Supplies - Stampin'Up! (except Polystyrene ball cut in half to hold brads)

Happy Birthday Mum & some Survival Chocolate. . .

2011-03-24T13:31:00.005+11:00

My Mum's Birthday was quite a while back but I realised I've not shared the card I made for her

and here's the inside . . .

I also made her a little gift bag that turned out pretty cute. I didn't follow a pattern, just kinda put it together.

Of course you need something inside your giftbag & my Mum loves Peanut M&M's so I squeezed a big bag of them inside. . .

. . . .and enclosed the eating instructions . . . .

Thanks for stopping by,

Corinna

A belated thank you. . . . .

2011-03-24T11:57:00.001+11:00

Nikki Spencer honoured me with the Liebster Blog Award, idea behind this Award is to share new and creative blogs that "INSPIRE" me, that may otherwise get lost in the ever increasing blogland.

As a recipient of this award I must share the love and pay it forward by:

1-Creating a post where I blog about the Liebster award & reveal my 3-5 blog picks

2-Let the honorees know that I selected them

3-Copy & paste the blog award on my blog

Nikki actually awarded it to me quite some time ago now, but I've had difficulty finding "New" Bloggers to forward the award onto, most I read or stumble accross have been around for a number of years.

I am pleased to say my search is over, I've found three wonderful bloggers who only just started last year during that time they have shared some really wonderful, inspiring creations.

Before I announce them thought I wish to say a very big Thankyou to Nikki for bestowing this honour upon me! It really made my day!

I forward this award to:

Janet Katz at http://paperplayscape.blogspot.com/

Renee M B at http://www.jdvhousecardart.com/

Dana at http://danasinspirations.blogspot.com/

Be sure to head over to their blogs and leave some comment love.

Have a great day,

Corinna

Just Add Ink Challenge #60

2011-03-23T22:58:00.000+11:00

Hi there,

I've made it back here - I've got lots to blog about, but sadly been too busy to sit still long enough to do so. Got a few photos saved & hopefully will get around to sharing them soon.

One of the most exciting recent events is that my friend Nikki is the new design team member for Just Add Ink!! I daresay you've probably already seen her work if you've followed the link from JAI, but if not, in the words of Molly Meldrum - "Do yourself a Favour" and hop over to her Blog

I felt I really should get some stamps inked up to celebrate the first challenge since she join the DT.

This time Just Add Ink have a colour challenge:

So here's my last minute, rushing to meet the deadline creation LOL.

****Edited to Add - Well No deadline not met - it appears the linky list is already closed!!! - thought I had a little more time up my sleeve it's only 11.15pm - nevermind I DO have another Birthday card in my stash which is always handy *****

I've finally used the fabulous Apple Blossoms Stamp Set & made a rather simple birthday card.

Well it's time for bed . . . .Sweet Dreams all

Corinna

Recipe - All items Stampin'Up!

Stamps - Apple Blossoms, Fabulous Phrases

Inks/Cardstocks - Whispher White, Rich Razzleberry, Crumb Cake, Old Olive, Jolly Holiday DSP

Other - Word Window Punch, Top Note Die, Twine, Brads

Greeting Card Valentine

2011-02-12T18:09:00.000+11:00

This week's challenge at colourQ has very pretty colours:

Just Add Ink have challenged us to Just Add Love.

So I took both these challenges and here's the result.

It was fun make the Top Note Quilt - my poor neglected sewing machine was dragged out to do the stitching.

Thanks for visiting,

Corinna

Card Recipe - all Stampin'Up! unless noted:

Stamp Sets: I Heart Hearts, Greeting Card Kids, Elements of Style, Short & Sweet

Inks: Versamark, Pretty Ink Pink, Pink Pirouette, Crumb Cake

Cardstock: Peach Parfait, Crumb Cake, Whisper White, Pretty In Pink

DSP - Peach Parfait Patterns Collection & Bella Rose

Other/Accessories: Blender Pen, Pretty In Pink Ribbon, Adhesive Rhinestone, White Embossing Powder, Whispher White Button, Non-SU: Cotton, Machine, Thread,

Punches: 2 Step Bird, 1 1/4 Inch Circle, Scallop Circle, Modern Label, Scallop Trim Border Punch, Word Window, Corner Rounder - non SU

Colour RoundUP Color Challenge #21

2011-02-11T11:37:00.000+11:00

I saw this challenge this morning and immediately knew exactly which stamps I was going to use - in fact it only took about 15mins from start to finish & I used all the scraps lying around. Finally made a masculine card!

Here's a closer look:

Thanks for stopping by.

Corinna

Card Recipe:

Stamps: Extreme Elements, Extreme Guitar, Punch Bunch

Cardstock: Cherry Cobbler, Crumb Cake, Early Espresso, Whispher White

Accessories/Other: Scallop Square Punch, 1 1/4" Square Punch, Brads, Twine.

Finally taken the plunge & moved....

2011-02-09T13:57:00.000+11:00

It wasn't as hard as I thought to change from Typepad to Blogger. I've been envious of all the customisation that can be done on Blogger, and it's free - so whilst I didn't hate Typepad it became time to move.

I found moving all my posts across surprisingly easy. I've yet to do all the Customisation - headers, backgrounds etc, so it's pretty simple for now.

It has taken away from my play time today though.

Maybe tonite after all the chores are done.

Hope you are having a fabulous day.

Corinna

colourQ challenge #70

2011-02-07T05:36:00.000+11:00

I was realy hesitant when I saw the colours this week:

but as I began to play I realise that I LOVE them! That's the best part about these challenges they make you step out of your comfort zone & you find yourself discovering fab new combos etc.

I really wanted to make a card with Ice-Creams or Chocolate - mmm Strawberry Cream Chocies. Didn't have anything remotely like it so here's my card for this challenge.

I'm a sucker for PINK and Birdies so I course I love this card. LOL

Thanks for visiting - have a great day!

Corinna

Card Recipe - All Stampin'Up! Unless noted

Stamps: Sweet Summer, Happy Together, Life Definitions, Tiny Tags

Inks - Blushing Bride, Early Espresso, Cameo Coral,

Cardstock/DSP: Blushing Bride C/stock, Very Vanilla C/Stock, Early Espresso C/Stock, Poppy Parade DSP

Other: Crochet Trim - Victoria, Pinking Hearts Border Punch, Sizzix Square Scallop Die, Brad, Vintage Trinkets, Poppy Parade Ribbon, Clips Assortment, Sponge.

Color Throwdown # 127

2011-02-07T05:31:00.000+11:00

This weeks challenge at color throwdown is:

Here's my card:

I really struggled - this card has had so many metamorphasis 's LOL. So many stamp sets were used in it's creation to finally only showcase a sentiment from flight of the Butterfly. Still it's a sweet card & was able to use a scrap of crumb cake that I'd previously run through a friends Elegant Lines Embossing Folder. Gotta love using those scraps in the basket.

Happy Stamping!

Corinna

Card Recipe - all supplies Stampin'Up! unless noted.

Stamps: Flight of the Butterfly

Cardstock/DSP: Crumb Cake, So Saffron DSP, Early Espresso, Bashful Blue DSP & C'stock.

Inks: Early Espresso

Other: Beautiful Butterflies, Adhesive Rhinestones, Elegant Lines Embossing Folder, So Saffron Ribbon, Pinking Hearts Border Punch.

Inkspirations Colour Challenge #56

2011-02-07T05:29:00.000+11:00

Here's the color challenge for this week:

and here's my entry.

Love the elegant combo of these colours. The card didn't exactly come out the way I imagined but I do love the Cobbler Rose & Antique Brad surrounded by the black leaves.

Good to be used neglected toys too.

Corinna.

Card Recipe:

Stamps - Sincere Salutations

Ink - Basic Black

Cardstock/DSP: Basic Black, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, Greenhouse Gala DSP

Other: Little Leaves Sizzlit, Floral Fusion Sizzlit, Antique Brad, Lots Of Tags Sizzlit, Moderna Label Punch, Large Oval Punch, Whisper White Satin Ribbon, Black Brads.

Wow - I'm a colourQueen!

2011-02-03T10:12:00.000+11:00

What a wonderful surprise I've been crowned a ColourQueen! for my entry for CQC #69 - refer this blog entry

Thanks so much for this honour! Part of this is being able to display this badge:

Please click on this badge to see all the other amazing entries to this challenge, and to see this weeks challenge - love those pinks & chocolate.

Love Corinna

Just Add Ink #53 - An Inspiration Challenge

2011-01-31T03:42:00.000+11:00

Decided to participate in this week's JAI Challenge # 53

We are throwing a new challenge into the mix - an inspiration challenge! Take a look at our beautiful picture, take inspiration from it (e.g. from this photo you could take the colours, or flowers, or just something that makes you happy!) and we'd love you to tell us in your link how the picture inspired you.

Here's the inspiration photo - click on it to visit JAI's challenge blog:

Seeing the bright sunflower made me think of a yellow & Black Card instantly. It seen summery too & I thought this stamp named Bumblebee would suit perfectly.

So here's my entry/creation:

Front:

Side/Inside

Front closed so you can see that the front layer is narrower that the back & the greeting is actually stamped on the the side of the back layer.

Then as I went back to get the inspiration pic to add here I realised that under it the JAI team have added

When we gave the Design Team the brief for this challenge, we called it a Bright Burst of Colour (basically like naming the photo), so when you visit the Design Team blogs, you might find that's what they've called the challenge. It is the same challenge! Your entry can be inspired by the photo in any way, whether it includes a flower or not. Hope this clears up any confusion!

Now I hope to come up with another entry that better suits the challenge before the Linky is closed.

Corinna

Recipe:

Stamps - Bumblebee, Cute & Curly

Cardstock - Whisper White, Basic Black, Urban Oasis DSP, Crushed Curry

Inks - Momento Black, Versamark

Prismacolors: Black, Sunburst Yellow, Light Peach, Canary Yellow.

Other - Nestabilities - Labels One, Black Embossing Powder, Crushed Curry PolkaDot Grosgrain Ribbon.

ColorQ Challenge # 69

2011-01-31T00:04:00.000+11:00

Hi Everyone,

Today's going to be a scorcher - 40 Celsius or 104 Fahrenheit! So what better than to stay inside with the cooling and make some cards.

This morning I decided to attempt this weeks ColorQ's Challenge#69 - (just click on the pic below to visit their site.)

Initially, thought I would make a masculine card, then I thought a giraffe may form part of it, untimately deciding on "For All You Do" stamp set which is one of my all time fav's. You can never really tell where a challenge will lead you. . .

Here's the final result

Have a great day,

Corinna

Stamps: For All You Do, Occasional Quotes, Itty Bitty Bits.

Cardstock: Cajun Craze, Crumb Cake, Rich Razzleberry, Whisper White

Inks: Peach Parfait, Cajun Craze, Rich Razzleberry, Versamark.

Other: Beautiful Wings Embosslits, Peach Parfait Ribbon, White Embossing Powder, Scallop Trim Punch, Corner Rounder (non SU) & Rhinestones & Pearls.

Nat''s B'day + Inkspirations Color Challenge #54 = This Card

2011-01-25T06:42:00.000+11:00

Hi All,

As promised I am back with the birthday card that I've made for my wonderful friend Natalie.

I decided the colour palette in this weeks Inkspirations Challenge would fit the bill perfectly.

http://inkspirations-challenges.blogspot.com/

Now to decide on the individual elements. I did try to move away from my tried & trusted but those Butterflies and the Ruched Ribbon snuck their way in. I do love the result however:

Here's the inside

and here it is with the giftbag I made to co-ordinate:

Sadly, now I'm home from delivering this gift I see that the photos aren't really that crash hot - will remember to check prior to giving next time.

Thanks for stopping by,

Corinna

Recipe - All Stampin'Up! unless noted otherwise:

Stamps - Just Believe, Well Scripted, Friends 24/7

Cardstock/Inks - Blushing Bride, Pear Pizazz, Early Espresso, Very Vanilla

Accessories - Butterfly Embosslits, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Brad, Pearls, Blushing Bride Ribbon, Finial Press Embossing Folder.

JAI 52 & SCC #36

2011-01-23T05:24:00.000+11:00

Finally back, it took longer than I thought but I've been busy organising, preparing and celebrating hubby's 40th Birthday.

Now things are back to normal I have completed another challenge card that fits 2 of this weeks challenges.

I used the layout from JAI - 52 Sketch Challenge & the colors & floral background to fit Stampin Celebration Challenge #36.

It's a small gift card that would be perfect to give to a friend along with some chocolate or flowers to cheer her up or remind her what a great friend she is.

I used a tip from Regionals and made my own "Iridescent Ice Embossing Powder" by mixing Dazzling Diamonds with Clear Embossing powder and used this to create the sparkly background with the blossom branch from Easter Blossoms.

Now I have a Birthday Card to make. . .

Will be back to share when it's done.

Love Corinna

Recipe:

Cardstock: Pretty In Pink, Chocolate Chip, Pretty In Pink. Whispher White

Ink: Versamark, Chocolate Chip, Pretty In Pink

Other: Lattice Embossing Folder, Top Note Die, Beautiful Wings Embosslit, Tiny Tag Punch, Vintage Trinkets, Whispher White Taffeta Ribbon, Adhesive Pearls, Dazzling Diamonds

JAI 49 Just Add Summer

2011-01-03T02:07:00.000+11:00

Here's my entry to Just Add Ink's Challenge Number 49 - Can't believe how many they've had I recall when they first started and I was planning to participate in each and every one!

OK so how does that saying go? Better Late Than Never! At least it's before this challenges deadline LOL

Time for another challenge!

Have a great day!

Love Corinna

Recipe - All Stampin'Up! Supplies

Stamps: Medallion Background, Something Sweet

Ink: Pumpkin Pie, Early Espresso

Cardstock: Whispher White, So Saffron, Pumkin Pie, Melon Mambo, Crumb Cake

Other: Whisper White Flower Brad, Rhinestones, Lattice Embossing Folder, Crimper, Scallop Trim border Punch, Beautiful Butterflies Die & Butterfly Wings Embosslit.

Happy New Year & a new resolution

2011-01-03T01:21:00.000+11:00

Hi, believe it or not I have finally made it back to my Blog!

I'm also resolving to post here at least weekly & participate in more challenges.

I made a few cards recently that I can share with you now - all are made with Stampin' Up! supplies

My "baby" girl turned eleven a few weeks before Christmas & I'd just been given the wonderful "Valentine Defined" or "Love Defined" Stamp set as a Christmas Gift. This was the result!

Steph's Birthday Card

and the inside. . .

I've also got the fabulous new set Easter Blossoms & I had a great time teaming it with the new Scallop Square Die & the Butterfly Embosslit

and the inside. . . .

Finally a Birthday Card for a friend who loves orange

and the inside. . . .

OK - time to tackle some challenges.

Those on my hit list? Well first up is the current Just Add Ink Challenge.

Back soon,

Corinna XO

ESAD Autumn Winter Mini Catalog Blog Hop

2010-04-01T09:09:00.000+11:00

Good Morning everyone!

I hope you’re ready for the ESAD Blog Hop! Better go grab yourself a cuppa as you’ll be hopping for a while!

What is ESAD you say?

ESAD stands for Extra Special Australian (and New Zealand) Demonstrators and it is an online group just for Australian and New Zealand demonstrators for Stampin’ Up!

We so love what we do and not only do we love to share it with our customers, friends and wonderful blog visitors but we share our love for what we do with each other as Demonstrators. We run swaps, challenges, tutorials, product know how and cyberstamps and we are always there to help and support each other when its needed.

So if you are a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator located in Australia or New Zealand then please feel free to click here to join our wonderful group.

Ok so now on to my creation. To date I have completed a total of 5 scrapbooking pages, I really find them challenging, but there I was playing around with my new toys and there was a recent pic taken of my daughter (who'd just been dancing in the rain) which seemed to go well with the gorgeous new Cottage Wall DSP.

So I jumped in and took the plunge, and whilst I took a lot of time deciding where everything should go, it ended up being a really simple Layout. There's heaps of new goodies used too.

I've used some ink, cardstock & ribbon in one of the gorgeous New In-Colors - Rich Razzleberry (The other two, Soft Suede & Melon Mambo are wonderful too!)

The long awaited Top Note Die's been cut out using my Big Shot in Kraft Cardstock and only part peeks out below the photo to provide a space for journalling.

Below this is a strip of Whispher White that has been punched with the Scallop Edge Punch & run through the "Polka Dots" Embossing Folder. This together with the strip of Orchid Opulence popped through the crimper add the texture without overpowering the layout.

The Flower & "Love Life" quote comes from the stamp set - Cottage Garden. This quote has been stamped on a piece of Whispher White that has been cut out with a Sizzlet from the set of Lots of Tags. Behind this is a piece of Orchid Opulence that was cut from the Curly Label punch, then cut in half and stuck on so it just peeks out bend the quote.

Finally the Two Step Bird Punch! Love it - as you can see the branch part of this punch is so versatile.

Here's a close up:

We are again offering Blog Candy for our Blog Hop. What
you need to do is complete the blog hop until you get back to me. Once you've
visited and commented on every blog then you will need to email Sharlene at
stampwithsharlene@hotmail.com who will then put your name into the draw for the
blog candy. There will be one winner from New Zealand and one winner from
Australia.

So start hoppin by going to the next blog being Danielle Daws, I really do love her style & am looking forward to hopping over there myself - I do happen to know that she's using the magnificent Medallion Background Stamp.

Happy Blog Hopping,

Corinna

Thankyou & Something a little different

2010-02-06T22:14:00.000+11:00

Hi there!

Thanks to all who stopped by my blog & left comments during the Blog Hop. Each and every comment is very much appreciated. Thankyou!

I myself am planning to Hop around it again - there was so much inspiration; and now my daughter's back at school I might even be able to schedule in a little more time to get my stamps inked up. The Blog Hop Candy Winners have been announced and will be receiving their candy in the mail over the coming week/s.

These days I generally I play mainly with SU only products. This is because the color co-ordination makes it soooo easy and I love the quality. Occasionally though I'll be asked to create a few samples for my Local Stamp Shop, and I take these opportunities to use my pre-SU stash. Here's what I came up with this time. . .

First a cute shopping Anya

then a pretty vintage card for this anya carrying flowers

I had made a larger handmade flower then decided a smaller one would look better on the card so of course I then I had to make a matching gift box to put the big flower on.

I really enjoyed making those in the vintage style & plan to break out a few SU sets over the coming days to create more. Friends 24-7 & the Friends wheel are just screaming at me, and after seeing some creations using the SAB Birdcage stamp (yes the same one I used in the Blog Hop) this is gonna be working hard too.

My daughter encouraged me to get these stamps - she convinced me we needed both Anya (Bella) and Ian (Edward), butI think she had her own interests at heart LOL. As soon as we got home we got to work creating these pencil cases. We're a bit late jumping onto the Twilight bandwagon, but she's certainly making up for it!

OK now off to do some more stamping & hopefully have more to show soon.

Love Corinna

ESAD Sale - A - Bration Blog Hop!

2010-01-25T17:00:00.000+11:00

Thanks for stopping by - if you've stumbled accross this post then look forward to some wonderful surprises & inspiration. This is just one of the many wonderful stops along the ESAD SAB Blog Hop!

if you called past last time for the Summer Mini Blog Hop then you know how wonderful these Blog Hops are & I thank you for your Blog Comments! I'm thankful for each and every comment that you leave.

What is ESAD? ESAD stands for Extra Special Australian (and New Zealand) Demonstrators and it is an online group just for Australian and New Zealand demonstrators for Stampin’ Up! We so love what we do and not only do we love to share it with our customers, friends and wonderful blog visitors but we share our love for what we do with each other as Demonstrators. We run swaps, challenges, tutorials, product know how and the regular cyberstamp happens to thanks to the loverly Tanya!

So if you are a Stampin’ Up! Demonstrator located in Australia or New Zealand then please feel free to click on the button below to join our wonderful group.

Click to join ESAD-SU

This particular Blog Hop is devoted to the Sale-A-Bration Catalogue that is now available. Now is the time for you to receive FREE stamp sets! Best of all this Blog Hop will provide incredible inspiration on how you can put these stamps to use.

Today I'm showing you a card where I've used some stamps from the Happy Moments SAB Set. I've also used the flourish from Friends 24-7 to create my own patterned paper.

Crystal Effects has been used to enhance the Bird Cage & the Love Hearts.

I've used the following Stampin Up Product:

Stamp Sets - Happy Moments, Friends 24-7

Cardstock - Basic Black, Whispher white & Pink Passion

Ink - Basic Black, Pink Passion

Tools - Small Tag Punch, Tag Punch, Crimper, Word Window Punch, Eyelet Punch, Heart to Heart Punch, Word Window Punch, Pink Passion Marker, Stamp A Ma Jig.

Other - Black Gingham Ribbon, Black Brads, Crystal Effects, adneshive, glue dots

leonie@stamp-a-latte.com

Now don't forget to give some comment love to ALL stops along the blog hop!

Simply leaving a comment at each blog along the hop and then notify Leonie Schroder via email at

leonie@stamp-a-latte.com
advising her that you have visited all blogs & left comments for everyone along the way then you'll be in the draw for some amazing Stampin' Up! Blog Candy!

The next stop on the blog hop is to visit Danielle Daws - she has the most wonderful blog & you'll find lots more wonderful inspiration.

Thanks for stopping by. . . . . .happy Stampin! - And Blog Hoppin!

Love Corinna

Here's a complete list (& links) to all of the Blog Hop Stops

Alana	http://www.alanagalagher.com
Amy	http://www.becreativewithamy.wordpress.com
Andrea B	http://www.creatingcardswithandrea.blogspot.com
Andrea E	http://www.aedesigns.com.au
Ann	http://goss-musings.blogspot.com
Bronwyn	http://addinktivedesigns.blogspot.com
Cathy	http://www.cathyclark.com.au
Chantell	http://www.inkeverywhere.wordpress.com
Charmaine	http://www.L-INK-edtopaper.blogspot.com
Chris P	http://www.dotdotstamping.com
Christie	http://www.christiescreativecorner.blogspot.com.au
Corinna	http://pinkflowersandbling.typepad.com
Danielle	http://danielledaws.blogspot.com
Debbie	http://www.debsstampincreations.blogspot.com
Felicity	http://www.stampinwithflick.blogspot.com
Gardenia	http://alittlelessuseless.wordpress.com
Jenny	http://www.astampingjourney.wordpress.com
Julie	http://www.blog.stampwithjulie.com.au
Julz	http://julzstamp.blogspot.com
Karen	http://www.cardsbeautifulcards.blogspot.com
Kerri	http://sovereignstampers.com
Kris	http://www.stampingwithkris.wordpress.com
Kym	http://www.kymbyrne.com
Leonie	http://www.stamp-a-latte.com
Linda	http://www.craventime2stamp.com
Louise	http://handmadebylou.blogspot.com
Lyanna	http://lyannageorge.wordpress.com
Lynn	http://www.lynnpowell.com.au
Madonna	http://www.madonnadunn.com.au
Mae	http://maecollins.blogspot.com
Michelle	http://stampinground.wordpress.com
Narelle	http://stampwithnarelle.blogspot.com
Nicole	http://www.stampingdownunder.wordpress.com
Nikki	http://www.inkyart.com.au
Pauline	http://www.paulinebennetts.com/stampede
Rebecca	http://www.stampinwithrebecca.wordpress.com
Ros	http://www.rosdavidson.typepad.com
Sarah	http://www.scrapink.wordpress.com
Sharlene	http://www.stampwithsharlene.blogspot.com
Sonia	http://www.stampinwithsonia.blogspot.com
Tanya	http://www.stampnchat.com

2009-12-01T17:00:00.000+11:00

Today the new Summer Mini Catalogue goes live and to celebrate I am joining the ESAD Group of Stampin'Up! Demonstrators in a Blog Hop!

This is the very first Blog Hop I have participated in and I feel very privileged to be among such a talented group of Stampin Up Demonstrators.

Be sure to follow all the links until you find yourself back here as there will be lots of eye candy to tempt and inspire you. The Summer Mini is full of fabulous new toys.

I've chosen to use three new stamp sets from the mini including:

* Framed With Love

* For Everything

* Butterfly Prints & the wonderful Butterfly Punch

I've also used the new Kaleidoscope DSP & Real Red 3/4" Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon. You'll see that while the polka dot side of this ribbon is delish, it can also be used as double stitched plain Red Ribbon.

Here's the first set of my creations:

Featuring Butterfly Pirnts and that fab punch! The Love quote is also part of the set. The "Thanks" and birdie stamp are from the For Everything Set.

I didn't have quite the right ribbon for this card, so I decided to run my old olive marker along both edges of the 1/4" White Grosgrain Ribbon and Voila! The background on the kraft cardstock is a flourishy image from the Framed with Love set repeatedly stamped in Versamark ink.

This little box is inspired by one on page 4 of the mini,

Whilst I really love Kraft C/Stock there is a wonderful new Designer Series Paper (DSP) in the Mini called Kaleidoscope DSP and it co-ordinates with Only Orange, Tempting Turquoise, Pixie Pink, Summer Sun, Green Galore and Pink Passion. Sounds really bright doesn't it? Well I made a couple of cards, the first is perhaps a little bright for my tastes - think I just used too many colours?,

but I LOVE the second version

These cards both used a wonderful new tool - Circle Scissors Plus. When used in conjuction with the Glass Mat you can easily cut circles up to 6 inches in diameter. Imagine the possibilities. . . . .

Then I decided to create a final card that shows the versatility of the ribbon, and uses flowers from the For Everything set to create my own DSP.

Ok that's it for my show & tell but the fun's not over yet it's time to hop on over to Stamp With Gail for more inspiration!

Thanks for stopping by,

Love Corinna

Curious will the "Publish On" time be correct?

2009-12-01T09:30:00.000+11:00

I have to publish my Blog Hop post at 6am tomorrow but am wondering if Typepad Time is the same as my time?

So am doing this post to find out. . . . .

Edited to add - YES it is! Yay! I finally know how to schedule posts.

This will make blogging so much easier in the future!

Set your alarms for 6am for that is when the SU Summer Mini Hopping Begins!(don't worry - it'll still be here if you sleep in, but I get too excited & want to see as everything new ASAP!)

2009-11-29T22:00:00.000+11:00

OK I've been a really slack blogger! I'm finally back & need to get used to a new typepad dashboard once again. Hope the photo issue doesn't rear it's ugly head. Fingers crossed!

Last weekend I participated in the ESAD Cyberstamp - Lots of fun!

I didn't complete all challenges, I still plan to do those I missed, but here's the first challenge:

Color Challenge - Pacific Point, Certainly Celery, Basic Gray & Garden Green - OK so this obviously isn't a card, it's my DD with the Pumpkin her wonderful Daddy made for her. Looked great with tealights inside at nite.

These colors do make you think of masculine cards don't they? But I had my new Butterfly Prints Sets to play with & decided to make it more feminine. I also used my new Butterfly Punch and Circle Scissors. All these new toys are available from the up-coming Summer Mini Catalogue on December 1st.

Here's a link to the original card in my splitcoast gallery

Back soon with more sneak peeks.

Love Corinna

Edited to add - ugly photo problem is back!!

Aaargh I hate this - might have to try on Hubby's MAC - Be back soon.

Edited again to add Pic of DD & Pumpkin on Hubby's MAC - Great it works - I just need to get my pics off the PC & upload my card

Last Nites workshop & a swap revealed

2009-08-23T08:27:00.000+10:00

Last night a very good friend of mine Esmerelda (formerly known as Julz) hosted a workshop in her home.

First up I decided to use the Fresh Cut notes & luckily my Flower Brads arrived in the morning so these finished off the centre of the card. Some ladies used Choc Chip Brads others used So Saffron - all looked great & I was pleased with this color combo.

We were also keen to share some brayering techniques & I wanted to keep the project simple as there was likely to be beginner stampers there so this is the project I came up with:

Now normally I've brayered on glossy cardstock which certainly provides you with more time to play & blend the color, but on this card you can see there is a good gradual softening of the Cameo Coral background as you reach the top of the sky. I also showed the ladies how to mask a moon. the grass was stamped in Kiwi Kiss and then Basic Grey (which was softened by first stamping off on grid paper). Sadly in the rush of finishing off my gel pen stitching is pretty wonky - so don't look too closely.

Of course I had to use one of my new favourite sets from the Spring Mini - Great Friend!

Another of my fav's is Forest Friends. As part of Karen Woods "Superstamper" downline I was invited to participate in the Spring Mini swap - Karen has posted pic's of all the cards on her blog make sure you pop over and have a look cause there's some fab ideas & inspiration, but I'll give you another peek at mine, I'm really pleased how this card came together.

This card uses both my favourite sets, plus the exciting new Scallop Oval punch & the Parisian Breeze SDSP.

Thanks for stopping by - I'm off to do a little more stamping before bed

Love Corinna

Mojo Monday # 94

2009-07-14T01:08:00.000+10:00

I finally got around to completing a Mojo Monday card, however I think I was about a hour too late to enter their contest! Still I really enjoyed it.

I got to use some of my new toys from the upcoming Spring Mini too!

Here's the sketch

Here's my card:

Love Corinna

Ingredients

All SU products used except Cuttlebug Swiss Dots Embossing Folder.

Stamps - Great Friend

Inks - Chocolate Chip, Sahara Sand & Versamark

Cardstock - Whispher White, Chocolate Chip, Close to Cocoa, Kraft

Other - the new Scalloped Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Crimper, Heat'n'Stick Powder, Supernova Glitter.

Circle Circus - with a Flourish

2009-07-11T10:55:00.000+10:00

Well I've finally made it back to blogland, I hope to visit more regularly.

Tonite I've been playing with a new colour combo that I really love: Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red, Elegant Eggplant, Kraft & Whispher White

Card No 1 - was happy with this until I added the ribbon - too late now. There's clear embossed circles that you cannot see too. Probably would have been better if the flourish to the left was stamped in Elegant Eggplant to balance the card, still here it is:

Card No. 2 - These are such rich jewel like colours that were screaming out for a touch of gold, so out came the Gold EP (Embossing Powder)

Ok so now I've played with these sets - now on to the next - my Stampin' Up! Spring Mini Sets are calling out to me but my next workshop will fall before their release - hmmm what to play with? What a lovely dilemma!

Happy Stamping

Corinna

Ingredients for cards above - all Stampin' Up!:

Stamps: Circle Circus, Best Yet, Frames with a Flourish

Cardstock: Rose Red, Elegant Eggplant, Whispher White, Pumpkin Pie & Kraft

Inks: Versamark, Pumpkin Pie & Rose Red

Punches: Scallop Circle, 1 1/4" & 1 3/4" Circle, Double Rectangle

Other: 1/4" Elegant Eggplant Grosgrain Ribbon, Dimensionals, Gold EP, Clear EP

Stampin' Up! Team Challenges

2009-01-12T09:44:00.000+11:00

As I mentioned in a earlier post I am now a Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. I now have a wonderful Upline Christine, and great group of side-lines too! If you have a moment pop over to see Margaret & Michelle

So far most of my contact with these lovely ladies is via our Team Yahoo Group. To keep the creative juices flowing they set Team Card Challenges, of course you are welcome to use the challenges to inspire you too.

I've almost finised my Massive spring clean, (ok so I'm late, but better late than never!) so I've allowed myself to indulge in some stamping time. Would you like to see what I came up with?

Challenge #1 - CASE of a card in the Stampin Up Ideas Book & Catalogue - pg 41

Challenge #2 - CASE of card on pg 18 of the Stampin Up Summer Mini Cataloge

Challenge # 3 -make a card using just Creamy Caramel, Ballet Blue, Black & one other colour.

Challenge #4 - was to use a stamp set I haven't used in a while - I chose to use Simple Somethings Set with Short & Sweet, but then I cheated and also used the SAB set Polka Dot Punches & Boho Blossoms Punch on the 2nd card.

Challenge # 6 - set by my Daughter Steph - "please make me a card with Yellow, Purple & Pink" I used, Pretty in Pink, Almost Amethyst, Lavender Lace & Barely Banana.

Challenge # 7- Ooops I almost forgot this one and it's my fav project, a box to fill with chocolates

I created this using 2 stamp sets from the Sale-A-Bration Catalogue - "Polka Dot Punches" and" Yummy".

I've also decided I LOVE the combo of Soft Sky & Groovy Guave with a touch of Very Vanilla, and a sprinkling of Purely Pomegranite - Yum! So Pretty with the scallops! If I were to make the box again I add extra flaps at the ends of the box so you wouldn't see the gap, but I'm just learning and having fun while I'm at it!

Now I'm off to do a little more stamping.

Love Corinna

PS The challenge numbers do not correlate to those set by my Team, but for the order in which they were created.

OMG! I can finally add pictures! Yippee - I'm back in blogland!

2009-01-10T08:49:00.000+11:00

Here's a picture of my darling Steph standing in front of a car my Dad helped rebuild & he was responsible for the Spray Painting.

For those who do not recognise it, is is the 2nd last car that Peter Brock drove.

If you look carefully above the driver's door you will see his signature. After racing the car at Goodwood in England he stood and signed autographs. He had someone changing the posters under his hand whilst he signed. Oops! somebody was too slow & he autographed the car by accident!

Anyway, it appears that our antivirus, antipop-up & anti whatever else has been causing me these problems with Typepad. So I think all's fixed and I can begin posting again! Yay!

Will be back soon with some creations

Love Corinna

A new year always brings promise of wonderful things!

2009-01-08T10:13:00.000+11:00

Hello everyone!

I always feel energised and inspired at the beginning of the year. It feels like a time to start fresh, break away from all the not so good things in your life and start chasing and enjoying the good.

The end of last year was particularly hectic for me. As a result many things got forgotten or simple left as I didn't have time. WELL! I have had a marvellous week off work & thoroughly enjoyed a really deep spring clean & purge of all the clutter around my home & garage.

So far at least 4 carloads to the OpShop & there's more to go!! The Hard Garbage Collection has been booked so that's another heap of stuff gone.

So now I'm nearing the end of this house cleanse I look forward to some evenings indulging in my new love of Stampin' Up! A friend invited me to a workshop late last year, then after attending another 3 and holding one myself I joined up as a Demonstrator! So I have lots of new toys to play with!

Tonite Hubby kindly took a look at the PC to take care of another problem I had with another site & I'm hoping that the changes made will also allow photos:

Sadly after a number of attempts the answer is no. That problem has yet to be solved :-(.

Nevermind Happy New Year to you all & may it be filled with wonderful happy times with your loved ones & bring many marvelous surprises!

Love Corinna

Perhaps it'll work this time?

2008-06-08T02:26:00.000+10:00

Cross your fingers. . . . . .

No still can't do it? Grrrr!

Let's see if I can add pictures. . . .

2008-06-03T09:37:00.000+10:00

Hi I'm back & going to try and show you come pictures of what I've been up to. Here goes - wish me luck

Last week our neighbour turned 85 years of age. What an achievement. Sadly she lost her only son to a heart attack before christmas and is slowly working through her grieving process. I knew that this birthday would be bittersweet not having close family to celebrate with so wanted to try and do something special.

Steph and I armed ourselves with the essential birthday goodies. Cupcakes. Balloons. Flowers . . . and a card. We popped across the road and well I was going to show you a photo of the birthday gal but I can't add pictures.

So I've just popped across to Typepad Support and the only reference to inserting images is this under known issues that they are working on:

Insert Image window doesn’t always display properly on Firefox for Mac
The dialog is sometimes cut off.

Well that doesn't help me much because I'm using Windows Explorer!!!! Aaaghhh!!!

I had just finishing cropping & preparing pics to show you of cards I'd made, some cute things I've seen in shops lately & my little princess before her recent dancing exam. This time she danced the Foxtrot, Quickstep & Waltz. She was presented with a Medal with a Highly Commended Pass! Congratulations my darling!

Well I'm really gonna have to work out this photo problem - blogging's not so much fun without them.

Wish me luck - cross your fingers. . .

Thanks Corinna

Remember to take the time smell the roses & write a post

2008-05-28T07:40:00.000+10:00

Been pretty busy lately with the new jobs & catching up with friends, family & the chores. Haven't quite caught up on the chores but nevermind.

Now I'm presented with a whole new Typepad compose page. Hmmm noticed many other Bloggers have had trouble with pictures, links etc.

Now I am and I have to read the troubleshooting questions before coming ba - hopefully with pictures.

Love Corinna

The apron's been put on the back burner. . . .

2008-04-24T04:54:00.000+10:00

Been really busy & have now got another job, so now that's 3! Keeps me out of trouble, but unfortunately also away from any new biggish projects - I did see an apron in a decor magazine though & think I'll draw up a design along similar lines.

My hubby is currently in Japan for work. Rather exciting, so he's taken the digital camera & has promised heaps of photos. My daughter & I are both looking forward to his return on Monday - we do miss him heaps. Missed the camera too! So there'll be no new photos until his return.

Here's an old pic of Steph taken just after the loss of another tooth -

She announced "Look Mum - I'm Tooth Loose-less!"

This week I have completed some designs for a craft group, some Altered Art Monograms and I've also made a couple of cards.

Anyway, my focus for the next couple of weeks will have to be work, work, work, oh and learning more about my work, so I'm not expecting too many new creations - more likely my spare time will be spent reading blogs & adding to my wish to create list.

Hope you're having a great day!

Love Corinna

Time to make an Apron. . . . .

2008-04-11T00:55:00.000+10:00

They are so popular now! I just need to decide which one. This site has 56 patterns to choose from.

Time to grab a cuppa & take a browse though them.

Have a great day

Love Corinna

Red, Pink & White

2008-03-31T11:03:00.000+11:00

I have seen this colour scheme a lot lately & was inspired to create a number of projects for Wood'N"Pots with this in mind.

Here are some sneak peeks - if you like them please pop in and see us at the shop!

First a Mannequin:

then a collage of flowers

and a jewelery box fit for a princess . . . .

Finally something just for me - a layout dedicated to the lovely Dakota Fanning. We (my beautiful daughter & niece) were lucky enough to meet her at the World Premiere of Charlottes Web. She is an amazing young lady, who patiently signed autographes & posed for photos for hours. I wish her every good fortune for the future - I think she's absolutely wonderful. So does my star-struck daughter (on the right)!

Finally had a chance to play with the amazing new Grungeboard from Tim Holtz for this layout;. I used it for the letters D & F. I inked them with Colorbox Chalk ink & then coated them with Dimensional Magic. It really takes the color well. I got mine from my Hubby at Nerinna's Nest . I've also used it with paints & kindyglitz, love the fact that it's flexible - really great for using on mini albums and Off the Page projects where normal chipboard would get damaged over time. Will have to play with these more!

Well that's all for today, time for bed,

Good Nite Love Corinna

One of those days . . . . .

2008-03-14T02:52:00.000+11:00

First - I lock myself out of the house - Hubby kindly rescued me!

Second - I decide to update my blog & include photos, but just as I am ready to take pics of the cards & layout's I've recently done, I find that the battery in the camera needs charging.

Third - I decide to write my post regardless, all nicely typed & I go to preview it before publishing & then it just disappears!!!

Oh well, the good news for the day is that I've joined a Pay It Forward Exchange over at Chookyblue - can't believe I was lucky enough to be one of the first 3!

What's Pay It Forward?

It’s the Pay It Forward Exchange. It’s based of the concept of the movie “Pay it Forward” where acts or deeds of kindness are done without expecting something in return, just passing it on, with hope that the recipients of the acts of kindness are passed on. So here’s how it works. I will make and send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment to this post on the blog requesting to join this PIF exchange. I do not know what that gift will be yet, and it won’t be sent this month, probably not next month, but it will be sent (within 6 months) and that’s a promise! What YOU have to do in return, then, is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog

So I look forward to finding out who I'll be sending gifts to.

Fingers crossed I can post this without losing it!

Love Corinna

Hmmm not so good at adding posts.

2008-02-26T09:29:00.000+11:00

This year has been really busy.

Not really an excuse for not updating my Blog but honestly I have been busy.

I've now got another Part Time Job as a Bookeeper & have joined the gym. So far so good - except for reviving an old injury ( I sprained my ankle last year & I don't think it's ever gonna quite recover). Need to remember to exercise sensibly & stay away from bouncing or jumping too much.

I have kept my resolution and have been reading more books. - Love Lesley Pearce more with every novel I read & always love Monica McInerny.

January went by in a Blur & now February nearly has too! Did you have a

Happy Valentines Day ?

We did - I bought Steph a treat from the Bakery. Very indulgent - in fact she felt sick before getting halfway through the icing at the top. After scraping the rest away she manged to eat the cake.

Have been attending recent local festivals - one in which my daughter & her Dance class perfomed not once but twice. She loved it! Here she is striking a pose - sorry about the glare from the mirror wall behind.

As for crafty endeavours, I have made a few cards, finished a layout or two & am dreaming up a number of other projects. Will have to take pic's so I can share - hopefully I'll get back quicker.

Corinna

A new year begins.

2008-01-02T00:02:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year to all!

I hope you all enjoyed a Happy, Safe & Fun Christmas with your loved ones.

Now 2008 begins! I always enjoy the start of a new year - it seems like a time to start fresh, make new plans, discard old ones that haven't worked out quite as hoped and look at the world with a new optimism!

I'm also hoping for a break in this really hot weather, I'd like to do some painting but it dries too quick! and we're also planning some gardening but too hot for that too!

I've just had a really lazy couple of days reading a great novel by Lesley Pearse - A Father Unknown. Really enjoyed it. So maybe that's a new resolution for me - to read a book once in a while. We also went to see "The Golden Compass" - fantastic movie - I loved it!

What are you plans for the new year?

Love Corinna

About me & Christmas

2007-12-20T10:27:00.000+11:00

Here's a Christmas meme I thought I'd do:

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Both - depends on the shape!

2. Real tree or artificial? Artificial.

3. When do you put up the tree? Varies - this year was early November.

4. When do you take the tree down? January 6th

6. Favorite gift received as a child? Trampoline, Roller Skates & Walkman

7. Do you have a Nativity scene? Yes a sweet little one I bought last year - it's in my daughter's room

8. Hardest person to buy for? All males I find hard to buy for.

9. Easiest person to buy for? Kids

10. Worst Christmas Gift you ever received? A Yothu Yindi Tape

11. Mail or email Christmas cards? Definitely mail - but I'm usually pretty slack & end up hand delivering them

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Love them all really!

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? If I see something during the year I get it and pop it away for Xmas

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Not yet - don't think anyone wants the Yothu Yindi cassette

15. Favorite things to eat at Christmas? I love the Pavlova!

16. Clear lights or colored on the tree? Clear

17. Favorite Christmas song? I enjoy them all - much to my husband's dismay

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home.

19. Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer? Donner, Dasher, Prancer, Dancer, Donner, Dixon, Rudolph? - I vaguely remember a song in Primary School that named them - obviously failed that test

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Angel.

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Day.

22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Can't really think of one

23. What is the “silliest” family tradition you do, or miss doing? Don't have one - at least I don't think we do - maybe everything we do is a little strange & I don't know it! One thing I miss doing is decorating & cooking with my grandmother in the lead up to Christmas - she passed away 10 years ago.

24. Ugliest Christmas Decoration ever invented? Not sure - I've found that if you have kids around they can usually show you the beautiful chrismassy side to even the most tacky or garish decoration & make it seem wonderful.

25. Which looks best, theme trees or homey trees? They are all wonderful.

26. Gingerbread or sugar cookies? Don't really eat bikkies - probably gingerbread.

27. Do you like Fruitcake? It sounds really bad but I think it depends on the fruit & alcohol content.

My Grandma used to make a wonderful cake & several years ago I found a recipe that requires for the fruit to be soaked in 4 different types of alcohol. After the long wait I finally tasted it and it took me right back in time to those Christmas spent at her house when I was a child. Most of the time I don't really eat cake.

I wonder did you notice that there's a number missing? - I copied these questions from another Blog & couldn't be bothered fixing the numbers.

My house has been really busy this week with the Dancing Christmas Party on Sat nite - we were entertained by floorshows by the Junior & Teenage dancers & The Darryl Cotton Band. Darryl made me laugh introducing himself to the kids by saying "I used to be a rockstar. You know Shannon Noll? Well I'm him in 20 Years".

Sunday was the day My Sweet Little Miss turned 8 years of age! She had a little party with friends following by one with family.

I was also a lucky winner over at Helen's Hugs:

I've been a lover of Helen's work for many years - these are her new "Tempters" which are easy Iron On Transfer Designs for stitching. Gotta love it when there's no tracing - just iron on & stitch!

Bye for now

Corinna

Shabby Christmas Surprise

2007-12-08T00:57:00.000+11:00

As I said earlier, I was swap partners with Linda from Lilly Cottage in the Ornament swap organised by Kerryanne.

Today my parcel arrived, inside the post bag was this lovely parcel

Complete with beautiful card featuring a bird (which I particularly love at the moment)

Unwrap the parcel & there was a beautiful Christmas Boot/Stocking to place on my tree

Lucky me - I wonder if Linda has received her package yet?

Corinna

Homespun Surprise

2007-12-06T08:21:00.000+11:00

I'm a regular reader of the Willow Valley Store Blog, by Cathy Baynes, and am lucky enough to sit & stitch with her on occasion.

I was very excited to see she's been published in the current issue of Homespun Magazine. This is one of my fav publications & this issue is devoted to kids - Cathy's Baby Bag is one of many great projects.

Run down to your local newsagents & grab a copy before they run out - then come back & check out her Blog.

See you later - I'm off to read mine now . . . . . . . . .

Deck the Halls with boughs of Holly Fa La La La, La La La

2007-12-05T23:29:00.000+11:00

Phew - hard to know how to punctuate those La's - but I'm sure you get the gist of what I'm singing!

I participated in a Handmade Ornament Swap over at Kerryanne's Blog. Lucky me!!! I was partnered with a wonderful partner - Linda of Lilly Cottage & her ornament has been sent - she may even receive it today. I can't show you my creation yet - that would spoil the surprise.

Christmas time is closing in and gifts need to be ready so I'm making a few more:

Here's LA - Actually it's A for Amy & L for Liam (my niece & nephew) - (hopefully their parents don't read my blog). If they do that's OK they are far from being finished - lots of ideas & not sure how I'm going to embellish yet but will post another pic when done.

Steph's got lots of teachers at dancing - so what to give? I decided making these Bag Tags would be a fab idea. Against all my Bomber's loyalty, Steph convinced me Sarah (her after school carer) needed a Collingwood (Black & White) Bag Tag.

So now I've just got the other teacher's presents to organise. A student of mine that used to be a teacher told me that she has collected an amazing array of Christmas Decorations received from Children she's taught in the past. Each year she remembers them fondly as their decorations are placed on the tree.

What's your tip for a great Teacher's gift? or Kris Kringle for an unknown recipient? Now the time to share any hints we have only 19 sleeps left!!!!!!

Til next time - happy crafting

Corinna

Long time no post

2007-11-28T10:38:00.000+11:00

Gee time seems to be running away from me. I feel as though Christmas is creeping up on me & I’m not prepared. I’ve starting organising Kris Kringles, and I need to begin making Teacher’s Pressies. OMG It’ll be here before I know it!

Anyway decided it was time for another post & didn’t have anything really exciting to say so I decided to join this meme:

The rules are: Answer the following on your blog and then let five other bloggers know that you have tagged them to complete the meme.

1. When did you start to create and make craft?

I was lucky enough to have grandmothers who taught me many things: cake decorating, sewing, embroidery, tapestry, latch hook rug making, oil & china painting among other things. I was exposed to & enjoyed all these crafts at the ripe old age of 7

2. Why did you start creating?

I think it may have been the thrill of creating & making something with my Grandma’s – oh and because it’s fun. Still is.

3. Why do you create?

Quite often it’s simply because I love the thrill of the process, starting with a pile of fabric, or a heap of papercraft items, or a blank canvas & my paint collection and then ending up with a creation.

Sometimes the creations aren’t quite as wonderful as expected, but they’re still fund to make. Generally I enjoy learning how different mediums work.

Other times I just fall in love with a design or something pops into my head as I’m going to sleep & I just need to make it.

4. What do you create?

Well, it all depends on the day. One day it’s all about Papercraft, the next jewellery, the next sewing & quilting, the next painting, all the above – the list goes on and on. I don’t have any boundaries set & I create what makes me happy!

5. Has this changed since you began crafting?

As an adult I have a better budget & can buy better craft supplies

As a child (before I was old enough to participate in my Grandmothers crafts) I was mainly restricted to the use of some manilla paper, a blue ballpoint pen & some stickytape. I can’t tell you how many different creations I made from these 3 things, but I recall quite fondly when I was 6, making a 3D Doll house, complete with paper dolls, tables and chairs etc. I was (and still am) pretty proud of that creation.

I am supposed to tag 5 people which I find really hard as most of the people I would have tagged have already been tagged - I am leaving this open for anyone to join in. (But please let me know you’re joining in by leaving a comment) There is one person who I know hasn’t been tagged so I tag you Julie

Thanks look forward to your answers

Love

Corinna

PS If you are wondering about the stray full-stops, I tried repeatedly to put spaces between the paragraphs & for some reason they just wouldn't behave so I had to put full stops in.

Dancing with the Stars

2007-11-12T05:08:00.000+11:00

My daughter has been dancing for many years now. Yesterday the students from her Dancing School had their chance to strut their stuff in front of the judges.

She was pretty nervous but her hard work paid off & she received a Bronze Medal for Latin Dancing. The dances she performed were the Samba, Cha Cha Cha & Jive.

To quote the judge she "looked beautiful". I can't show you her dancing but here's a pic:

After I took this photo we went to the Awards Nite where all dancers perfomed an Honour Dance & received their Medals. The teenage class also performed a floorshow of Michael Jacksons Thriller which was sensational.

Love Corinna

Didn't have that when I was a kid!

2007-11-10T00:06:00.000+11:00

It's funny, you promise yourself you won't say things like this to your own children, but you do!

In this case I wish that when I was a child I went to a Spotlight Demo Nite where children can do "Make & Takes". What a fab FREE nite out!

Last night we went along & my daughter spent 3 hours creating & making! Her favourite project was this tree:

She also got to make several cards, a Disney Pixies notpad, play with the new Jewell Tones Foils, do some stamping, gluing, glittering, and then she received heaps of freebies as well. What a lucky girl - she's even got her own Sculpy now!

She was tired this morning but it was all worth it!

I got to have fun too, seeing demos on lots of new products, trying out the Xyron design runner & watching Wet & Dry Felting techniques. There were heaps of others but too many to name.

So watch out - hopefully you have a Spotlight nearby that planning a demo nite that you can go to.

Have a great day,

Corinna

Christmas is coming early at my house!

2007-11-08T05:18:00.000+11:00

I love getting ready for Christmas. For me the lead-up & preparations for the day are just as exciting as Christmas itself.

Don't get me wrong - I can still get rather traumatised by the whole shopping for presents experience. It all depends on the names I get for my Kris Kingles and how early I start shopping. This year is looking rather good, however as of today's news it looks like I need to find something else for those kids who were going to get Bindeez!

Last year at the Kmart sales I picked up a heap of "Shabby Chic" Xmas decorations at bargain prices & I've been hanging out to see what the tree looks like with all my new ornaments! You might think it's too early to put up the tree, but I've been waiting over 10 months!

The tree doesn't actually look as green in the picture & popping the lights on for a short time each night while we sit in the lounge really creates the atmosphere of Christmas - all my childhood memories of anticipation & excitment come flooding back.

There's a beautiful shop in Main Street Croydon (VIC Aust) called Bountiful Home. It is simply gorgeous and carries many treasures - if you are ever in the area I recommend you pop in. This year I decided to indulge & bought myself some Xmas Bird Ornaments - see if you can find them. Here's a close up of one:

The one thing I am not so good at is writing out & posting Xmas Cards. This year I vow to do better. In fact I've even begun making them. Here's the Shabby lot:

And since not everyone can understand my dream of a shabby christmas, I'm making some more traditional ones too:

When I was a young girl, I used stay at my gradmother's for the few weeks leading up to Christmas & help her prepare the food, cake & tree. She passed away 10 years ago but I have many special memories of these times together.

What do you do with your family at Christmas? Do you have any family traditions? I love to hear about them.

Love Corinna

PS - A special visitor - Steph announced it's presence by yelling "Look Mum - there's a really big bug"

Time to catch up

2007-10-30T22:56:00.000+11:00

Finally my bear is finished - thanks so much to Rhona for all her help!

I've also had a lovely surprise & received these lovely items in the mail from the wonderful Lynette Anderson. She's been madly working on a new BOM that looks fantastic - check out her blog for a jigsaw puzzle style preview: http://www.lynetteandersondesigns.typepad.com/

I helped a friend with some scrapbooking stuff & was surprised to receive a lovely Thankyou gift from her in return. How lovely & sunshiny? This is one of three flowers in a pot - so hopefully I can look after them well enough so they'll come to cheer me up next spring too!

Also been doing some scrapbooking - love adding those flowers & bling!

Neil gave me some of the new Prima Flowers & Embellishments to play with & I came up with this.

Check out www.nerinnasnest.com.au if you want some of these yummy flowers!

I've gotta run again so I'll catch up again soon!

Have a great day

Corinna

Isn't it annoying when. . . . .

2007-10-16T22:06:00.000+10:00

You have typed a lovely post - well composed and full of interesting stuff & then you go and DELETE it by accident?

AAARRGH! Oh well - will try again later - have to go meet some friends now.

I love spring

2007-10-10T23:58:00.000+10:00

The sun shines, the flowers are beautiful & the smells wonderful. Well except when they keep you sneezing I suppose - sympathies to those who suffer badly from hayfever. I do, but not too badly thankfully.

Today I was tidying the single room of our house that acts as Study, Craft Studio, Junk Storage. I came across some of my beads and can't help myself but lay them all out - they are just so yummy.

Such a beautiful rainbow of colours:

They look great already (except for the blurry photo) but one day they may turn into this:

(This is a lovely design I made for my best friend's wedding. As one of the bridesmaid's I wore this set with a black dress & the bride had a pale green pearl version that matched her dress perfectly.)

More for the to do list.

It just keeps getting longer. Bear is still a WIP - having trouble with nose & can't go any further at this stage - will need to beg Rhona for help.

Have cut fabric out for Freya - now just need to sit down & sew. Perhaps tonite?

Til next time - have a happy sunshiny day!

Corinna

Sorry I didn't come back earlier

2007-09-28T03:18:00.000+10:00

I'm a bit slack with my Blogging, but I've finally got around to it.

The last week has been hectic. The lead up to school breaking up was unusual - first we planned a farewell for my daughter's Grade 2 teacher (who had been filling in for Term 3) only to find out at the last minute it would become a "Yippee Mr Jones is staying party". I was lucky enough to be invited and all had a ball.

I took Steph & her friend Monique to see Hairspray yesterday which was a lotta fun.

I did get back to my bear although she's not yet finished! I will get there - I need to there's show n tell due first Tuesday of term. At the moment she looks like this.

Unfortunately/fortunately I get really distracted - so many things to make so little time.

Popped down to say Hello to Marg & Linda at Missy Moo's and now I've finally got the patterns for Freya & Messenger Birds by Melly & Me. I've also gathered these fabrics to make them from.

I've joined an ATC (Artist Trading Card) Club down at Heaven Scent It's a wonderful stamping and paper craft shop owned by Deb that just happens to be at the end of my street.

Is so much fun, quite nice to do something purely for art's sake. I also love that there's no rules with these cards - absolutely anything goes so long as the size is 2.5 x 3.5 inches. Oh & the cards can only be traded, not sold. The first class I attended we learnt the Paper Peeling Technique. Here are my finished cards:

We literally had to rip up pages from old books. My grandmother instilled in me a large amount of respect for books and I found this quite unsettling, but I must admit the effect created is something I'd like to try again. I've been op-shopping for old books & think I may have to find one that is falling apart before I can tear pages again. It just seems so wrong!

Today's creations are these Cupcakes - no, not ones you can eat, but scrummy yummy 100% fat-free ones to display on your kitchen counter or dresser. I love them, even when you go in the kitchen & the sink is full of dishes they make me feel happy!

My hubby Neil launched our on-line business too. Check it out www.nerinnasnest.com.au - we'd love your feedback.

Hopefully I'll be back with my next post quicker than last time.

Till then, Happy crafting!

Love Corinna

Nearly better - finally!

2007-09-17T03:50:00.000+10:00

It's take some time but I am now beginning to feel better - still really tired & have a rather horrible sounding cough (as do the rest of my family), but on the mend.

It was my birthday last Tuesday. Yes, it falls on September 11! I managed to spend nearly all of it in bed, except for lunch spent with wonderful friends down at the shop. I received many lovely pressies & was treated to a really nice lunch, and even a birthday cake! How spoilt was I?

Here's a picture of some of the gifts I received - taking pride of place is the gift from my hubby Neil & daughter Steph - a Sizzix Big Shot! Very spoilt indeed! - I love birthdays!

Unfortunately I was too sick to finish my bear - so hopefully this Tuesday. Fingers Crossed.

Til, next time, Happy Crafting/Sewing/Painting

Love Corinna

I'm not feeling too crash hot!

2007-09-11T06:10:00.000+10:00

Since my last post, I managed to cop the flu/cold/virus thingy - whatever it is from my family.

As a result I've spent 3 days in bed & 1 day at work, and achieved very little else apart from sanding my nose with tissues until it's reached a very unflattering shade of red.

Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day! I've got the 2nd part of my Bear Workshop at Wood'N'Pots so I should be able to post pics soon.

Corinna

Time for a little D & M!

2007-09-07T04:47:00.000+10:00

I can really appreciate those that manage to blog on a regular basis. I have great intentions however & will continue to try & post more often.

The last few days have been really busy with work, going out for dinner, meetings a crop nite & a bear workshop Part 1 (next week I can show you the finished piece).

To top it all off my munchkin was home sick for 5 days. Hubby kindly took Monday off to look after her & now he's copped it. Not much fun. I'm crossing my fingers I'll be OK. I've planned a day of cardmaking tomorrow & the Stitches & Craft Show saturday so hopefully . . . .

Stephs now back at school & was able to have her buddy over to play. Her friend loves creative arty stuff so I gave them all the bits & pieces. Look what they designed! A "D" (for dad) and a "M" (for Monique)

Still learning - think this pic is gonna be rather small - but I have to go cook dinner.

Seeya Soon - Corinna

Happy Father's Day!

2007-09-03T06:24:00.000+10:00

Hoping all Dad's have had a great day today!

I deliver Avon to my local area & today was one of my brochure drop days. It was so nice to see so many driveways full of cars - obviously family member's visiting their Dad, Pa, Grandad or Pop.

Last night Steph & I had fun creating cards & wrapping paper for our father's day presents.

We had a nice quiet day at home. Steph's still really sick and had an afternoon siesta on a picnic blanket under a tree on the back lawn. (It's become quite a habit of her's since last Thursday). Meanwhile my hubby, Neil popped across to his brother's house to show him some fly tying techniques.

Upon his return, we finished off the night together with hamburgers & sausages for tea, then sat round the TV with Kath & Kim.

Hope you all enjoyed your day.

Love Corinna

Getting the hang of this

2007-08-31T01:30:00.000+10:00

OK have managed to add a few Blogs to my fav list (see left). I love all crafts really, with the exception of knitting and that's only because I can't. Still there are some knitting blogs I love reading, so some will probably creep onto this list too.

Today, I have my little munchkin home sick from school with a fever. She doesn't get sick very often and feels pretty miserable. Normally she's really happy go lucky & full of beans. Here's a pic with that beautiful smile that I'm not seeing much of today:

If all goes well you can see this picture.

Next I'll get links sorted out & there'll be no stopping me! Well that's if I can get to the PC before my hubby does.

He's starting up a new exciting venture online. Sneak Preview details will come soon!

Finally got around to starting!

2007-08-31T00:01:00.000+10:00

Ok I've finally started my Blog. Pink, Flowers & Bling are some of my favourite things that make me happy. I love all things creative & when I learn a bit more about this Blogging business will list many many favourite links to the blogs of amazing talented people.

Today I had a great surprise in the mail - Country Threads arrived. The 6th B'day Issue. Inside was a great feature on Melly & Me (have to find out how to make links). I love their Blog & can now show my crafting friends their designs. My fav is Freya.

I guess I betta go and learn all about this Blogging & Posting & linking stuff!

Corinna