Blooming Poppy

A canvas for Lottie...

2011-06-24T07:29:00.001-07:00

I'm seriously thinking I should close this poor lil neglected blog...I hardly find the time to create much of anything at the moment. Slack? Tired? Busy? No Mojo? all of the above. I definately feel the need to be creative...I need to be working on something....but it just seems I have less and less energy to tackle anything much at the moment!

Anyway enough whining....

I did make this lil canvas for my friend's new baby girl - Lottie....LOVE her name!I'm yet to meet her as we have all had the flu and I don't want to spread the germs!

I really hope she likes it as I'm really nervous about giving it to her. I've never really been fussed on OTP scrapping type things especially as gifts. I have bought some cute clothes and a seedling doll for Lottie and the canvas is just a little extra thought from me!
I like it myself though and will probably do one for Lola's room!
Speaking of Miss Lola - we had her Kindy interview this week and thank god she was a delight while there. I was serious worried she would climb the principal's desk, throw a tanty or strip off. Happy to report she was an angel!
X

Canvas play....

2011-05-21T00:50:00.001-07:00

I have seen LOTS of scrappers playing with canvas art and mixed media lately, so I thought I'd have a crack. I will eventually sign up for the full SHE ART tutorial but for now I just had a look at Kristy's blog and watched the free tutorials. I first had a play on simple shipping cards, above!

Then played with a background for a canvas for Poppy's room!

And finished it like this! It was loads of messy fun and didn't take much time at all! I'm really happy with it and have plans for one for Lola and a larger one for the hallway!

I have two LOs on the go and will post them later!

Winter has finally hit so I might get a bit more crafting/scrapping done indoors!

Happy Mother's Day...

2011-05-08T02:10:00.000-07:00

I whipped up these cards for my MIL and Great Grandma "Oma"...we also filled them with printed photos of the girls and candles/candle holders & an Oroton wallet for my MIL. She constantly minds my girls while I work and although she has everything under the sun if we find one or two really nice things that she will like I will buy it in thanks for all her help! We had a wonderful day...breakfast in bed then onto lunch out with the inlaws. The girls were really well behaved and the food was great! I was spoilt. I have really wanted a pizza maker for ages so I got one of those. But in true tradition I also got a new vintage style Kate Hill handbag! Both presents were my favourite colour - red!Of course though, the things we love the best are the homemade pressies! And Poppy was sooooo excited to wake me up this this gorgeous poster! It cracks me up, I think my dress is upsidedown and I lost a shoe somewhere but I LOVE it. And the writing is spot on!

And I love this pic of Miss P smooching with her great grandmother "Oma". They get along famously and I know my girls are so blessed to have such wonderful grandparents!

Hope all the mums had a wonderful and love filled day! X

make something please.....

2011-04-30T04:17:00.000-07:00

so I did....I made this lil mixed media frame forJulie Heard...she's rounded up a pile of scrapper/arty people to make inspirational canvases and frames to be auctioned off for a cancer charity! I was flattered to be asked!

So here is my attempt with my favourite Mandela quote!

Lots of vintage papers, doilies and buttons...

Kinda cute!

Hoppy Easter...

2011-04-24T18:33:00.000-07:00

Well I have to say I do LOVE traditions and celebrations such as Christmas and Easter. We usually spend Easter in Geraldton with my family but this year we stayed in Perth and celebrated with my inlaws. There are no other children in their families so my girls LOVE all the attention!
We carried out our usual tradition of making our Easter baskets to use on Easter morning for the egg hunt! They are very simple but the girls adore making them and so do I! We use a simple regular egg carton and cut it in half. They girls have a ball painting them any way that they like - the brighter and messier the better I say!

Once the paint is dry we staple a paper/cardboard handle onto each carton and decorate with Easter stickers, glitter or this year it was wooden ladybugs and paper butterflies!

The reason why we love these hand made baskets is because they allows for six eggs to be collected by each child. It was originally my sister's idea as she has 4 children and the egg hunt could become quite stressful as the older kids would all the eggs first and arguing would breakout! With these baskets they all know how many to find, everyone gets the same amount and same size plus once your basket is full you can sit on the verandah and start eating, allowing the younger ones to find their eggs at their own pace. It was an early start in our garden this years and the girls had so much fun! Poppy was running around and showing her generous nature by sharing and helping her little sister. Mind you Lola worked it out very quickly too! Look at the sheer joy on their faces...so simple yet priceless!The day continued with a delicious lunch, more chocolates, some new books and winter tracksuits from Nanny(another tradition!). It really was quite a relaxing day. As I look at these photos I realize how grown up my girls are. They have been playing so nicely together these holidays, I love to watch their sisterly bond grown and develop!

Hope you had a fun filled Easter!

Savvy CC challenges...

2011-03-31T02:42:00.001-07:00

Well I really wanted to get back to pushing some papers around so I got 2 out of 4 challenges done for the March Scrapbook Savvy Cyber Crop. Was hoping to get all the challenges done but didn't have enough time!For Kerryn's Challenge - Using up older stash and a card with the left overs!

And this one was for Anthea's challenge - use papers older than 2010, no cardstock & make an embellishment! Some older Basic Grey papers that I had floating around - very girly!

Pretty dodgy photos - sorry - but I will have my new printer/scanner up and running next week thank god! LOL!

I'm off to Uni all weekend - don't mind it so far but I am not looking forward to the 6000 word assignment! Wahhhhhhhhh! At least we can pick our own topic. I'm going to research "natural playgrounds/playspaces" which I am really interested in! I'm hoping to persuade my boss to add lots of plants and natural features to our new playground! We requested a hill or mound in our grassed area and they agreed to putting it in! There is nothing cuter than a bunch of 3 year olds rolling down that lil hill! They really love it!

I've got lots of kids art/craft to share...leading up to Easter.... stay tuned!

School, study & a dash of dancing!

2011-02-18T14:50:00.000-08:00

oh I'm tired of logging on here and saying how "busy" I've been - LOL! But it is what it is!

The school year got off to a great start. I set up a brand new kindy which is awesome. The room is amazingly BIG, all the furniture and toys are new...it's really gorgeous! But lots of unpacking, cleaning up and a few issues, like no computers, phones or internet yet which has been a pain! All the kids are lovely, a few criers/screamers but they are all settling now! Gotta say, I do love my job!

So this year my job is now 3 days a week, which might not sound like much but it seems like a big jump for me and I'm desperate to find the routine and balance I need with work and family. I know we will get there!

I have also enroled in Uni to do 4 units, which will allow me to remain teaching Three Year Old Kindy. I'm not the world greatest student, bit of a procrastinator, but I will just have to get on with it! Luckily I have secured a scholarship so finances won't be an issue! I just have to buckle down this year and get on with it!

Poppy started Pre Primary this year and while she likes it, she gets really tired, going 5 days a week. It all seems so much more formal these days. I wish they would just let them play more, there are 12 formal years of schooling ahead, just let them play for one more year I say!

She also started dancing lessons and is loving it. She does look gorgeous in her red uniform! Luckily one of my old teaching friends is her dance teacher and she is a wonderful teacher.

Nothing on the creative scene, I really do want to scrap but I just don't have the drive like I use to. My pages always look very similar/boring. I still love the papers, the bits and pieces but I feel a bit stressed as to where to begin again! I have made lots of birthday cards lately which I really enjoy personalising!

Other than that we are all good, just would like a little breathing space, a moment to step back, a quick break...but that's not goin to happen anytime soon. Just a lot of juggling.

oh I LOVE Christmas...

2010-12-20T15:38:00.000-08:00

Like everyone it's been a fun and busy few weeks....

last of the presents bought and wrapped

Staff Christmas party - ummmmmm one to many champers! But you get that!

Photos with Santa at David Jones - Lola did sit on his knee but didn't look overly happy. LOL! But at least we got a photo, the little boy in front of us just wouldn't look at the camera or Santa!

We are all on holidays - YAY, YAY, YAY!

Had early Christmas with the Corbett family - everyone was very spoilt, I have lots of cash for the sales, the girls got zhu zhu pets, dolls, a beautiful wooden fairy house... and that's just the beginning!

Off to Gero for a week - my family for Christmas this year. Poppy is counting down the days, she ADORES her older cousins.

I did rush my Christmas cards but at least I got them done! I do love the pic of the girls!

I really am hoping to do some scrapping in January....I have lots to catch up on!

To anyone who still actually reads this - more of a family record than a scrapping blog at the moment, wishing you a Merry and safe Christmas!

2010-12-11T15:46:00.000-08:00

Kindy is officially over for Poppy. She has had such a LOVELY bunch of kids in her class and the most divine teachers! We really are so so happy with her start to school! The class did a gorgeous little "concert" for the families and Poppy even had to introduce one of the songs!

She was great and I heard she helped one or two nervous boys during the rehersals!Gorgeous girl! We also had a lovely get together for all the families from the class at a park, Santa came, lots of laughs! Like I said a really lovely bunch of people. I wonder who will be in her class next year?

A quick Christmas craft idea...a paper plate wreath. I LOVE paper plates and brown bags for kids craft! With this one you simply cut the centre out, paint it green and add your choice of decorations, stickers, glitter. I think a bow in the centre at the bottom would finish it off nicely!

More kids crafts to follow as we are now on holidays I think Poppy will want to keep busy!

FIVE!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

I can't believe this little blossom is FIVE years old! I know people always say it but where has the time gone? There was ALOT of cake this year! Cupcakes for kindy, a cake on the day and a cake for her "hula" party on the weekend!She loved her pressies - spoilt as always! So I have been busy with the girls parties and cakes! Busy with lots happening at work. I have a new contract for next year - exactly what I was hoping for which is wonderful! Geeze we might even have a little money next year! School has build a brand new Early Learning Centre and I was lucky enough to be able to do lots of ordering of lovely new equipment! That is a dream come true! Christmas is coming and I'm pretty much organised - just need to do the wrapping! YAY!

Poppy at FIVE -

Loves barbies
Loves imaginative play - dolls, dolls houses, lil people
Is enjoying weekly swimming and tennis lessons
Loves playing with friends and adore her cousins
Adores her teacher.
Likes Kindy but finds it tiring as she is still and early riser
Likes making things/arts/crafts
strong willed - like you wouldn't believe
Enjoys outside play, the park and animals
Still a tiny eater - favourite meal - lamb roast
Enjoys stories and reading
Starting to learn about letters, writes letters, numbers, her name and family members
Sings, sings, sings all day long.
She cracks us up all day long - funny story teller

We adore her, we love her, we can't imagine life with out this busy, loud, funny girl!

Back soon with some kids Christmas craft if you are interested!

Lola is TWO...

2010-11-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

I can't believe our bubba is TWO already! She is such a funny lil girl! A really character with funny songs, noises, screeching, giggles and the most hilarious faces or looks that she pulls!
We had a small morning tea for her birthday with a few close friends! We went with the "hungry caterpillar" theme - invites, lolly bags, placemats, colouring in and of course the cake - all made by me. The kids all played beautifully and most importantly Lola had fun! Presents included - a wooden kitchen, dora bath doll, books, wooden threading toys, new dresses, hat, fairy dress, musical instrument, wooden farm set and her new big girls bed! With more to come!

AT TWO....

loves outside play and water/swimming time at Beaty Park
loves "drawing"
adores her big sister, follows her everywhere
loves blueberries, strawberries, toast and lollies!(was a great eater but not eating much these days - due to bronculitious sp?)
happy little personality even though often sick with asthma type cough.
stubborn streak just like her sister - knows her own mind!
Follows instructions easily and comprehends alot
Language is starting to improve with more and more words everyday.
LOVES animals from dogs to frogs....she just loves them all.
Had been an excellent sleeper until a few months ago - climbing out of her cot at 4am ready to start the day...now in a bed and sleeping till about 5.30am. Still has a day sleep and is in bed at 6pm.
Social and loves other kids...
She likes books and stories especially flap books at the moment.
Has a range of funny and goofy faces that she is constantly pulling.
Affectionate and loves a cuddle.
Tries to dress herself and can put on her shoes(most of the time)
Likes to twirl and dance about.
Poppy taught her to "gallop" last week and it's how she generally moves about at the moment! Very cute!

We really do adore her and she completes our little family. I love to watch the bond between my two girls. They can drive each other crazy but they also love to play together, to cuddle and laugh. There is nothing sweeter than sisters.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY GORGEOUS GIRL!

'bout time ...I know

2010-10-28T01:17:00.001-07:00

OH MY GOD...she scraps....not one but two LOs....

My gorgeous Lola in her first "big girl bathers"...love all the nautical clothing around this year. I love my girls in red!

And our wonderful Oma...how lucky are my girls to spend time with their great grandmother. Who still lives independently, cooks delicious meal, and can speak three languages. She teaches them lots of little dutch songs and sayings!

I don't know if I "still have it" with scrapping but I did enjoy these two...and most importantly the little memories behind them!

Lots going on as we are leading up to a big birthday season in our family - the very important ones being my girls. FIVE and TWO...I can't believe it! Life just flies doesn't it!

Back soon...

might even get a couple more LOs done!

How can we make a REAL difference?

2010-10-07T16:06:00.000-07:00

I have been pondering for a while now on how we as a family could do something to help others. I want my girls to be actively involved in "giving something back". Yes we donate to charities but I wanted something more physically evident to my girls, something that would be given directly to someone in need in our community!

Each year the school that I work at makes up "food boxes" for Saint Vincent de Paul. The kids all bring in a non - perisable food item and at the end of the term, just before Christmas the boxes are given to St Vinnies and the distribute them to local families in need.
I was thinking how can I do more? How can my own children be involved? Then I thought what if we made up our own box of food - as a family. We are definately not rolling in money but I know we could add two food items to our weekly food shopping. If we add them to a box each week over the school term we would have 20 items of food to help a family this Christmas. So simple!

So this is my challenge to YOU - join in this 10 week challenge!

Ring your local Vinnies and see if they are collecting food hampers at Christmas(I'm sure they will be!!!!) They may even "allocate" you a family ie "Mum with three kids/Mum, Dad and 4 kids/ Mum with a baby etc...
Find a large cardboard box - we are going to get the kids to decorate ours! Get them involved!
Each week for the next 10 weeks we are going to buy two extra food items - to go in the box for a family in need this Christmas!
I want my kids to be involved with choosing the items, arranging the box etc...
At the end of the 1o weeks deliver your box to St Vinnies.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

I really want to see how many families we can help in our community! So I'm asking YOU and your family to get on board....go and find that box now, get your kids involved, your friends and family, your work maybe? If you are keen spread the word. Post this on your blog and leave me a comment so I know you are keen.
I'm tired of hearing "how can I make a difference? I'm just one person? etc..." Now is the time to really help some in your community. What did you last spend on shoes? Wine? Craft supplios,Take away? Two items a week in your food shopping is simple I'm sure!

I hope you will join me!

http://www.coneinc.com/old/.a/6a00e008d5230e8834010536554189970c-800wihttp://

Holiday fun - white crackle cakes...

2010-10-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

Well we thought we might make something delicious today. Poppy has a few kids with egg allergies in her Kindy class, so when it is her birthday next month I don't want to risk sending in cup cakes, so we are doing a practise run with these cute little "crackle cakes"

Poppy even matched up the colours - clever chook!
So quick to whip up! You can even make them up to three days ahead and store in an airtight container!They are perfect for Xmas treats too!

Makes 20, Prep: 20mins, Cooking: 2 mins.

2cups rice bubbles
50g butter
1 cup of white mashmallows
30g white chocolate melts, melted
20 lollies, jaffas, lollie pops to decorate.

1. Place rice bubbles in a large bowl. Combine butter and marshmallows in a small saucepan and melt over a low heat until smooth. Pour onto rice bubbles and stir to combine.
2. Spoon mixture into mini patty cases and leave to set for 20 minutes.
3. Spoon white chocolate ove the crackles and top with a lolly! Leave to set!

Healthy - not really, Easy - yes, fun - yes, Yummo - yes!!!!

I'm alive.....

2010-10-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

...just...LOL!

Well the craziness of our busy lives at the moment has completely drained any creativity out of me! Not the will, just the energy! Life is great just more than a little bit busy!

For the last 3 weeks of the school term I took on a relief possition in the 4 Year old kindy, so I was basically fulltime! It really wore me out - not the actual teaching - the kids, parents and assistants were fantastic. It was the emotional toll on my kids, the stress of getting everything organised, Poppy's tears in the mornings....I do not know how mums work fulltime with little ones. My part time position is perfect for me but I realise that you couldn't pay me enough to miss out on my girls on a fulltime basis!For some mums there is no other option - and I respect those who can juggle it all alot better than me! To add to the whole situation Lola learnt how to climb out of her cot and has been waking up and roaming around from between 4.45 - 5.15am most mornings - it waaaaaayyyyyy to early and exhausting.*Yawn*. Let hope it passes once we get her a bed!

we've been working on the "playroom" - it has stalled due to my working.
we went to the Playschool concert - I swear the mums and dads love it more than the kids! Such great value - and so much more "personal" than events like the massive Wiggles type concerts!
my selfless mum came down from Geraldton to look after my girls for two weeks - what a wonderful nanny she is.
lots of crafting with Poppy and "writing" she's very interested in words and letters at the moment
a fun day the Perth Royal Show - just Dh, myself and Poppy - Lola is too much of a runner at the moment. Poppy had a ball with animal petting, show bags, rides and face painting.

Planning Poppy's "Hula Hula" party - she will be FIVE!!!! And Lola's "Hungry Caterpillar" party she will be TWO! They are meant to be small parties this year but I love all the little details and making the cakes. They are growing waaaaayyyyy to quickly!
We are now on holidays and have lots to do. The early starts are still killing me - sooooo NOT a morning person! But I have started walking - trying to lose a few more kilos and it's good for my mental state - LOL!

I desperately want to scrap, sew, create, lots of courses I'd love to do but just soooooo tired! Hopefully I'll get some photos printed this week and get creating!

I'm not sure if anyone even bothers to pop in here any more but I'm hoping to share some creativeness soon!

a quick share....

2010-08-02T03:29:00.000-07:00

Yep here is one LO....LOVE this pic of Miss P. You know, she use to drive me crazy....I love her (obviously) but I always stressed about her. But not any more! I did this amazing course and got a whole new outlook on life - especially my relationship with Poppy. Now I look at her through different eyes. I treat her differently - "better" to be honest. In return our relationship is so brilliant, she is so much easier to manage, to love, to be happy with, to just enjoy!!

Time flies.....

2010-07-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

Well we have been busy busy busy...and this sad lil blog has been neglected. No scrapping has been done in this house due to mainly illness -

a trip to Gero for the first week of the school holidays

both girls got sick - for the following TWO weeks - we were stuck at home - missed b'day parties and play dates. It nearly drove me crazy!!!!

one trip with Lola to PMH - she had Bronculitious(sp?) and was struggling to breathe(scary much???).Worked out it's viral so they couldn't give her anything to clear it!

Dh got a mild dose of the flu and so did I.

We had my brother's 40th - lots of fun!

good news is I've got another half day of work which is excellent - I really LOVE my job!

constantly trying to declutter and organise this house - does anyone else struggle with this?

switching some rooms around - dining room into the formal lounge room which we never use and making the dining room into a playroom for the girls! The painter is here right now painting it all white! I'm going for a girly shabby chic look!

Lola has decided to start toilet training - by herself! Clever chook - but she is constantly taking her nappy off - it's time consuming but great too!!! So different to Miss P - she took AGES!!!

Lola is so busy these days - she thinks she is running the show!

Poppy has started some fun Tiny Tots Tennis lessons - the guys running it are excellent! I really want her to try a range of activities and to find out what she really enjoys.

We are all much better now and hopefully some creativeness will occur!Hoping to join in the CC at Scrapbooksavvy this weekend!

Hope all is well in your world....

Scrapping at Savvy

2010-06-05T16:36:00.000-07:00

Last week I had a crack at a couple of the CC challenges at Scrapbook Savvyhttp://www.scrapbooksavvy.com.au/forum/...great lil forum with a very tempting shop!!!

And the very exciting news is that I WON the two challenges I entered, scoring a $10 voucher for each. More than happy about that as I haven't been in a CC for ages!!!

Here is one of the LOs - Yummo. It's Miss P at Easter, love these bright BG papers and those woodgrain letters ***sigh***! The other LO got picked up for publication!

And this is an enormous birthday card for Poppys gorgeous Kindy teacher! Her birthday is in a few weeks. I was sneaky and got each child to draw themselves and then I assembled the rest with bits from my stash. It's very bright and very big - poster size! I'm sure she'll like it!

We have been busy as always and life rolls along. Miss P has a cold that is lingering and lil Miss L is becoming more grown up everyday. I thought she was going to be far more mellow than Poppy but no...another wild, fun, expressive girl on our hands!

I have been surfing arty crafty blogs trying to round up gorgeous posts for the kids crafts blog. I just need to have made or find a blinky...if anyone can help please yell out - I've never had to do one before!

I found a few fabulous posts on creating a fairy garden so that is going to be our project in the next week! Very cute, very creative and full of magical learning and play - just the way we like it! I will post some pics when we are done!
XX

Dream.create.explore....

2010-05-26T23:23:00.000-07:00

I have been toying with an idea for quite sometime. I have always loved teaching arts and crafts and all types of creative activities with my students at school. This year as I am teaching the Three Year Old Kindy program I find myself looking for lots of fun crafts, planned play and creative exploring for little ones. Poppy at 4 years of age has taken a keen liking to creating and drawing too! There are so many fabulous ideas, blogs and tutorials on the net. So I'm hoping to open a blog that bring all those wonderful ideas to one place.

I'm looking for crafty people who have been dreaming, creating and exploring with their children. Toddlers to teens - all ideas welcomed. Are you interested in contributing? What do I need from you? A clear photo of your craft item or activity for my new blog and a link to your blog post or tutorial so people can find out more from you!

Are you interested? Know of another crafty blogger who might be?

Please email me at -

dreamcreateexplore@hotmail.com

I would love to get this up and running so parents, teachers and children can start sharing their creative goodness!

Up and coming themes

Autumn

Birdies

Painting

Rain

If you have something to share please send me a pic and drop me a line!!!!

Growing great girls...

2010-05-14T17:09:00.000-07:00

Quick LO of the girls from our holiday in Margaret River. The flower is from a tutorial over at the Studio Calico blog. Mine is a bit wonky but it's a first attempt! They have lots of great ideas on that blog!

I am reading this book at the moment...such an easy, sensible book on raising girls. Everything from toddlerhood to teenagers. With two precious girls to guide through this life I figure I can use all the help I can find! Poppy is a very highly spirited and strong willed girl and quite complex. We often clash to be honest. She is outwardly very loud, social and outgoing but as she is getting older I think she takes alot to heart and is starting to doubt herself. She overthinks things and because she is all noise and smiles publicly people assume she lets upsetting things "wash" over her, not so. I know I will really have to watch her as she gets older. She is all about extremes. Either deleriously happy and loving or devastated and low. And all this at four!
Last year I read this one and should refer back to it actually. Lots of really interesting info on kids like Miss P. I don't think books on parenting can solve all your problems but I think you can have a read, take what "speaks" to you and use it. Surely we should all be open to doing a better job with these little people who are entrusted to us?!!

She really is so special and wonderful I just want to guide her in the best way I can. She sang at "Mother's Day" at Kindy and made me a very "fancy" necklace. The best thing was the card she drew - the picture kinda does look like me! LOL! Not bad for four!
We had a lovely Mother's day with breakfast out, and then a play and an icecream at the lake in the afternoon. I got a gorgeous new bag, some Oroton earrings and some Leona Edminton tights( SIL works for Leona! YAY!). So very spoilt.

What did you do for Mother's Day? Any good books on your desk?

Oh she scraps....

2010-05-06T01:02:00.001-07:00

Occassionally...LOL...wish it was more! Have some new sass, BG and delish October Afternoon to play with so no excuses!We had a lovely holiday over Easter - up to Gero to see my family. Lots of wine, chocolate, family and fun. Just love hanging out with my family. Poppy adores her older cousins and they take such good care of her.

Then we scored this enoromous house down south - Margaret River - absolutely STUNNING. Views of forest and ocean on every side! Tennis court, pool, the works and only 3 minutes from town! Poppy and I went for "cinno's" every morning while Lola slept. We hit some wineries, saw a friend on their farmstay and just had a lovely time!

Now we are all back to work and school and life is still rolling along...we are all happy, healthy, busy...life is good!

Girls from the last post who would still like those bunnies please email me your addy to

melba_1@hotmail.com.

More LO's in progress....

Battery problem...

2010-03-26T19:59:00.000-07:00

Well the good news is that my camera only needs a new battery - will pick one up this week.

Have been doing some extra teaching days and just don't have a spare minute.

Have actually been scrapping but obviously have no pics right now.

Have been decluttering - this seems endless

Have been getting ready for Easter with lots of crafty fun with Poppy - including potato prints, paper plate Easter Hat, cards for her teachers, an Easter collage and some baking! She loves our time together when Lola sleeps!
Have been watching Lola's walking improve and she now thinks she is running the house - she is a bossy boots!

Preparing to travel to Gero for Easter to see my family - Poppy is VERY excited about hanging out with her cousins and wants to write a letter to the Easter Bunny so he knows where to find us! Too cute!
Here is Poppy's Easter collage - we had a great chat about new life and the real meaning of Easter while making this!

If you a someone who is actually bothering to read this and has a toddler at home who would like some of those paper bunnies and some other "Easterish" small embellishments, leave me a comment and I will pick a couple of names out and send some to you for your littlest crafter!
X

arrrrrrrrgggggggggghhhh

2010-03-11T15:22:00.000-08:00

A quick card for a gorgeous new bub....

I've got a couple of LOs but NO pics because....

My camera battery is not recharging - not sure if it's the charger or the actual battery! HOW ANNOYING!!!! DON'T YOU HATE THAT! LOL! Those annoying little things that you have to run around to get fixed. God knows when I'll get time! DH is at a conference ALL weekend too! BLAH!Enough whinging - we did have a lovely, busy weekend last week. We had a weekend in Bridgetown. What a lovely place! We stayed at a farmstay and the kids loved the all the animals! We spent hours at Donnybrooke's awesome Apple Park! It is literally the best kids playground I have ever seen - in a small country town aswell! Apparently some woman left nearly a million dollars to the community when she passed on and wanted to have something built for the town! How amazingly generous! Definately worth the trip just for the fun we had here!

Other than - work as usual, kindy, trying to get a painter, finishing of some bits around the house!

Right....we are off for a playdate....gotta run. Hopefully be back with pics of scrapping!

Phew...it's been hot!

2010-02-28T22:19:00.000-08:00

I love the heat but sheesh...even I'm a bit over it this week! These two love the splasher pool though!Not much on the scrapping front that I can share...did some extra days at work this week at school and it really tires me out - so no scrapping in the evenings. LOL! Have been picking up so many great kids books and vintage fabrics at swapmeet and op shops! I have just finished up a "vintage handmade embellishment" swap at the BOXX. So great to see all the ideas that other's come up with! I have got some delish new supplies - some funky Sasslass and can't wait to get my mitts on some new BG and October Afternoon! Should get some LOs finished this week! Have been coming up with lots of fun open ended activities for my gorgeous 3 Year Old kindy classes. I am really LOVING this job and will sign up for some further Early Childhood Education Units mid year!
Today(it's a public holiday - YAY!) we headed over to Hyde Park for a family market/fun day. Wandered around..Poppy had a pony ride and some other rides, lunched on lawns...really nice but it just got too hot so we headed home. And now both girls are having an afternoon sleep - BLISS!
We are heading to Bridgetown next weekend for a family weekend away! Too exciting! It's a farm stay with A-frame Units. I'm sure the kids will love all the animals. It's the first family "holiday" with the four of us!
Hope you have a great week ahead - what are you up to?

She's on the move...

2010-02-20T00:36:00.000-08:00

A quick share of some creativity...some cute lil cake topper I made for my Teaching Assistants! We have had a great start to the year and I took them these muffins for Valentines day!

And a LO using some new Basic Grey - I love this range. Really liking yellow at the moment and can't get enough of Kraft as a base. The darker small circles are actually punched holes(that's my floorboards underneath!). Lola is SUCH a climber and this documents that!
I have some other work done but will share that later!

This gorgeous girl finally started walking this week - at 15.5 months!

She has been cruising for months and months...but was always too busy chasing Poppy to bother with taking the time to actually walk! She is still quite wobbley and even fell and smashed her cheek on the doorframe - poor lil thing. But she is pretty pleased with herself as she often gets a round of applause when she does walk!LOL! She also LOVES to blow kisses with the loud sound effect of MWAH! Too cute!
Life is busy as usual but I feel like we are all heading in the right direction as a family. It's all falling into place - the house, Poppy's school, Lola growing and learning, my job, Tony and I...It's never perfect but it just feels GOOD - how nice is that! LOL!
My sister is staying tomorrow night - yay...best get the champers in the fridge!
Hope you have a great weekend!
XX

Rolling along...

2010-02-09T21:32:00.000-08:00

Well we seem to be getting back into the swing of work and school! Poppy is loving Kindy - no suprises there! I have already scrapped one of her pics! YAY! How cute is that phonics domino tile...picked them up in an opshop - a whole box for the grand total of a dollar! Cheapest embellishment ever! Also have a LO of Poppy on her 4th B'day. It still needs journalling but I am yet to go out and get a new scanner/printer! I'm going to list her likes and all the things she can do. I have the list ready to go!

We had a ball on the weekend at our friend's 40th B'day which was a 70s theme! Everyone got really dressed up. We went decked out in "Fro's"...what a hilliarious sight! Poppy didn't recognise DH at first because he had hair and I coloured his tragic moustashe(sp?) in...he is normally ginger!
Lola is FINALLY taking a few more steps...at 15 months she still prefers to crawl and cruise - no time nor patience to actally walk! But just today she took more independent steps than I have ever seen her take to date!

Hope you are having a great week - off to make some Valentines cards for Grandparents and teachers!

ohhhhhhhh want to win some cuteness?

2010-02-04T16:15:00.000-08:00

Go here....if you want the chance to win some cute orange goodness...
http://lilredrocketbuttons.blogspot.com/2010/02/first-give-away.html
Yummo!

And so it begins...

2010-02-03T23:49:00.000-08:00

SCHOOL..Dh is teaching grade 4, I'm teaching Pre-Kindy(for the first time) and Miss Poppy is off to her new school for 4 Year Old Kindy! I must say I think I'm in love with my job already! The kids are gorgeous, the parents are friendly and my teaching assistants - fantastic! What more could you want! Poppy is also LOVING her new Kindy, her teacher is gorgeous! Poppy has a staggered start and only had to stay for an hour each day.

Poppy - Why can't I stay all day?

Me - Because some kids might be upset. They might need time to settle in. They might cry for their mums.

Poppy - But I won't cry. Why can't the crying kids go home and I could still stay!

Me - Hmmmmmmmmm

Gotta love that confience!

So it has been busy around here with all of us getting ready for school. I'm also teaching a very basic scrap class tomorrow with 20 Year 11 girls! Should be interesting. Apparently they are all excited!LOL!

I have still kept my "1 LO a week" goal...but my stinkin' printer/scanner is playing up! So only one (tragic quality of image)LO to share...

Lots of retro/vintage tags and buttons for a swap I'm hosting at the BOXX.

A LO for the new Kraft challenge site...http://kraftitup.blogspot.com/

Have also been stock piling lots of vintage doilies and fabric that I have found at Op shops! Now if only I could sew! I will get onto it!

I also need to have a HUGE clean out again...over hanging onto stuff I don't need! But what a mission to list it all on Ebay! I will get there though!
Hope you had a great week!

Feeling HOT HOT HOT!!!!

2010-01-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

As in it is sooooooooo HOT here at the moment! I must say though, I do love hot weather but this is a bit much! We are cooped up inside under the aircon. The kids are getting a bit stir crazy! We've been baking gingerbread and mini quiches to occupy ourselves. Poppy loves cooking and Lola loves eating - it's a win/win situation

Favourites this week include Poppy learning to ride her new big girl's bike!

I have actually been scrapping...getting some pics from last year finished off. My scanner is playing up so these images are bit rough but you get the idea! I even have a couple more - just putting on the finishing touches!

Dh had his birthday yesterday - we celerated out at lunch with his family on Sunday, followed by coffee and cake at our place! It was lovely and he got all the pressies he was hoping for!

Poppy is all ready for her new Kindy - clothes, bag, display file, spare clothes...all packed and ready to go! She is excited and I'm really pleased about the school she is off to!

Lola is delightful...although I she is going to a stubborn little Miss, just like her big sister. Nearly walking - at 14.5months, pretty much the same as Poppy.

We really have been enjoying theses holidays!

Learn........

2010-01-11T18:29:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous Christmas. It was great to have my parents here. The company was good, the food delicious(I even made a glazed baked ham and a banoffie pie!!!) and everyone had a pretty relaxing time. The girls were spoilt - Santa left them their sack gifts. We got Lola a cabbage patch baby and pram, for Poppy a tag reading pen thingo and some books, jewellery, bathers etc... aswell as a trampoline from all the inlaw family! I got a new sewing machine,( just a basic Brother model) gorgeous silver ring and I'm going to get a Wayne Cooper snakeskin bag with my vouchers and Christmas money!YAY!

New Years was VERY quiet. We cooked up some delicious prawns, had a couple of vinos and happily stayed home!

Did you set any New Year's Resolutions? I kinda did - not too many....and I decided to go with a focus word for this year.

LEARN....that's my "focus" word for this new year - 2010!

Learn to use my camera effectively

Learn to use photoshop

Learn to use my new sewing machine

Learn to accept things I can't change

Learn to have a more open mind and heart

Learn to be patient

Learn to really appreciate what I do have rather than dwell on what I don't.

Learn to run a fun and nuturing 3 Year Old Kindy!

Scrap goal is just to get back into it....I'm aiming to do one LO a week. Last year I just didn't get that much done. Now I want to get back to basics, tell the story, have fun scrapping for me. I hope to do a monthly review aswell. I love the ones that Pip Prosser creates - very inspiring! I actually have some LOs to share but my scanner won't play the game today!!!

We are having a fun summer holiday - been swimming, to Kings park, I'm up and walking everyday(I'm in the zone..LOL!), we have had fun in Fremantle, might hit the Museum(Dinosaur display) and Whitman park if it cools down a bit! And of course we will have to fit in a visit to our favourite Dim Sum for some breakky!

Hope you are having a fun summer! X

I heart this time of the year....

2009-12-14T23:55:00.000-08:00

Yep I do LOVE Christmas! Our tree is not up yet as I'm uncertain where to put it...Miss Lola will attack it I'm sure...so I think we may pop it in the front lounge this year. I would love it in the new family room but don't think it would last long in there!

As usual we have a million things going on...

My b'day...quiet one - but DH took me to the movies - which I just love doing! Lots of pressies and fun. My sister bought me these M- cups - LOVE them! Got lots of vouchers and money - saving it all for the sales!LOL!

Playgroup Christmas party - it was sooooooooo HOT but lots of fun...Poppy's face painting was gorgeous. She loved her book and skipping rope from Father Christmas but was even more impressed with the yellow golf ball she found in the playground - go figure!

Sorting, clearing out, selling and giving away all our little baby clothes and toys.

Poppy had her last day of 3 year old Kindy - more partying...off to a new school next year!

I finish my teaching this week - yay for holidays. New teaching job next year which is very exciting!

Just making my Christmas cards- way behind this year. Getting a photo of both girls is tricky! Lola is a wriggler!

Tiny bits of scrapping - time and tiredness get me everytime!

Most of the presents bought and wrapped!

Now to sort out the menu for Christmas day - it's at our house this year, for the first time - hoping to keep it delicious but casual. Being the youngest in my family I usually just turn up to everyone else's place wearing a new dress and holding a bottle of champas and a salad!LOL! Now it's finally my turn!

Planning fun and creative things to do in the holidays - want to do lots of fun family activities!

Lola is on the front cover of Scrapbooking Memories Mag this month- YAY! I've never had a cover before...am dying to see it!

Had our "girls night out" - annual Christmas Dinner, drinks, carryon! Haven't been out much this year but now Lola is older it's getting easier! I had a ball - new dress, fake tan, new hair do....great food, gorgeous girlfriends - soooo much fun! Love my chicks!

I'm actually sure there is more but that's all I can think of....anyone still read this? Will be back to post some LOs up!

Are you crazy busy or super organised - or both!?

Another Birthday....

2009-11-16T21:30:00.000-08:00

This time 4 years ago a had a sweet new bubba in my arms! It has gone soooo fast ....it's a blur. To be honest Poppy wasn't the easiest of toddlers - very "spirited". Her endless energy, tendency to run EVERYWHERE, constant talking and overly strong will tested me along the way! But the traits that sometime drive me crazy are the traits we value so much in adults - strong willed, confidence, social, energetic! So I embrace this gorgeous girl and her high spirited ways! She is unique and fun! She is our special first born! And we love her to bits!

She had a little party yesterday with some special friends. I made her a tinkerbell cake which I was pretty pleased with as a first attempt! She loved her new big girls bike from us - aswell as some books, memory game, Tinkerbell doll and costume. Dh's family all put in and bought her the Tinkerbell Cafe kitchen - what a hit! She received bathers, jewellery box, charms, and funky hat! Alround a fabulous range of pressies!

At Four -

She loves

Outside play

Bathtime

swimming lessons

Going the park

Hot chips

Singing and dancing around the house

Playing with Lola

Story at bedtime

Drawing

Long, swirly dresses

dressing herself

Her doll's house

Trampoline

To answer the phone - "hello Poppy Corbett speaking"

Finding treats in her Nanny's handbag

To wake up at 5.30am - I'm not loving this one!

She can write her name

she loves affection

She loves playing with her friends and older cousins

She will eat most things but only tiny amounts

So that's both birthday's done and dusted - now looking ahead to Christmas! Eeeeek - we're having it here at our place this year!!!!

Happy first birthday Lola!

2009-11-03T14:41:00.000-08:00

God, can it really have been a year already? Athough in some ways it just feels like she has always been here.

Lola is such a loving, clever, pretty little girl. I just adore her. She completes our family in so many ways -she is the perfect play mate for Poppy. There is nothing more special than the bond of sisters. She looks alot like her dad and I I know he loves that she does! And she will always be my baby girl!

At One -

Length -

Weight -

says mum.Bubba, lola, dad, nan, nanna(bananna), no, hello, bye, "awwwwwww" when you cuddle her, "uh-oh".And a whole heap of babbling and humming!
crawls everywhere, cruises standing against furniture, "free" stands next to furniture.

Eats quite well - just weaned from breast feeding but not keen on cows milk yet.

Loves to play "chasey" with Poppy, loves exploring, outside play - eating sand! Loves to climb!

Hums and rocks, claps to music.

Laughs alot, giggles and smiles alot!
Sleeps really well - 12 hours straight - just starting to wake earlier.

Two bottom teeth only

Size 0 and 1 in clothes

She is over an easy baby - lots of fun and so easy to love and enjoy!

Last Year - meeting Poppy.

This year enjoying her first ever cupcake!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY GORGEOUS GIRL!

OMG - some scrapping to share!

2009-10-23T19:20:00.000-07:00

These were the LOs for each round of the Boxx Comp - it was really good to have a challenge and meet time deadlines - I always work well with time deadlines - I just get it done!

All good here - getting ready for Lola's first birthday/baptism - we are combining it to have one large party! She is such a delight. So happy and easy going and into EVERYTHING - she gets into things and then flashes a cheeky smile and gives a wicked little laugh! Can't believe this time last year I was 20kg heavier and awaiting this precious bub! She and Poppy get along so well - I love watching them "play" together!

Poppy has been much better with her behaviour and emotions lately - just growing up I guess. She still has her moments but I am consciously trying to manage her/repond to her in a more positive way. She is really starting to enjoy drawing and making things. She draw cute little pictures of people now - usually our family - very sweet and special!

Take care

Melis xx

busy fun...

2009-10-13T02:19:00.000-07:00

Well the school holidays have been and gone! We love the holidays because DH is a teacher so we had him home for two weeks! Yay! We have been super busy and had lots of fun!

Went to Gero to see my family - Poppy had a ball hangin' with her big cousins, Lola was sick so we stayed in alot!
went to the Royal Show - left Lola with Nanny, so Poppy had a fabulous time! She LOVES the rides and has no fear! Loved the animals, face painting, games, food, showbags and the train ride home!

Went to the cutest fairy party at a fairy shop
Culling all my baby stuff - learnt how to list on e-bay and am selling at a baby market in Nov.
Getting rid of a pile of scrapping stuff - have given away literally about 100 pieces of paper!
Some scrapping - for the Boxx comp. - lots of fun!
Trips to into the city, the park and playground.
Trying to still sort out the house - reserected this old dresser for Poppy's room - very shabby chic - she loves it too!It's a really old kitchenette -partially stripped it, took the top and the doors off and add the baskets. I nearly gave it to my sister two weeks ago - lucky I didn't!

Now back at work...and a job change for next year is in the wind! A new position and I'm pretty excited about it. I have LOVED my job for the last two years but my position as it has been is no longer available!
Organising Poppy and Lola's birthdays and Lola's baptism.
Started making some cute felt/fabric/vintage button hair clips to sell.
More kids craft with Poppy - I LOVE making things with paper plates - they are cheap and so adaptable. The ideas are endless.

First one is a garden collage. You can do any theme. We've also made an under the sea one. You could do the beach, a jungle, space, fairyland, dinosaur land etc $2 shops are great for items to use. Paint the paper plate and then glue on other bits and pieces - it's that simple.(I cut out the clouds and she positioned the rest)!

Second one - an old favourite - paper plate fish! Cut out a triangular section and staple on as a tail. Paint, then for "scales" cut patti cake liners into quarters. Glue on in rows! Add a wobbley eye or a hand drawn one!She's pretty proud of her work! LOL!

Hope you are having a great week - will be back with some LOs!

The Hungry Caterpillar...

2009-09-21T01:58:00.000-07:00

I adore Eric Carle's books and did a whole Author study on his books with my junior Library classes! Did you know it's his( the caterpillar's) 40th Anniversary this year! Talk about surviving the test of time. I LOVE working in the Library because I really do love literacy lessons and children's books!Poppy has a copy of the book and loves it as much as I do. I really want to pass on a love of books to my kids.

Now she is getting a little older Poppy and I are doing more crafting together. I will post some of the things we do - incase anyone is looking for simple activities to do with little ones!
This week we decided to make a Hungry Caterpillar - very basic, but you could busy it up with far more decorations.
Items needed - Egg Carton
Red & Green paint
Yellow paper or card
Purple card
Optional Extras - pipe cleaners, sequins, green wool...the list goes on!

Cut egg carton in half, cut off one individual section for the head

Paint the "body" green

Paint the head red - allow to dry

Cut out two eyes from the yellow card, paint green in the centre

Cut out two purple antennae - or use pipe cleaners

Assemble - staple or hot glue head on, glue eyes and antennae, add a nose.

You could further decorate with sequins, green fabric, wool or crepe paper!It's VERY simple - but Poppy isn't even 4 yet so - it has to be! If you would like me to post more simple crafty ideas please let me know...if no one is interested I won't bore you all! LOL!

I've been scrapping for a comp. at the BOXX...and hoping ot get a bit more of my own scrapping done. Slowly finding my way back! Have some cute pics of the girls to get on to!

Will be back with some LOs later!

Have a great week! X

I know, I know...

2009-09-12T23:25:00.000-07:00

...it's been a while! LOL! But who would have ever thought TWO kids would take up soooo much time! He he!

Lola has really blossomed in the last month and has a wide range of party tricks including a fake laugh, a fake cough, waving, VERY loud squealing, pull up on things and crawling EVERYWHERE! She is also finally showing off her first tooth. She is such a happy and easy going bubba...just a delight!

Poppy is growing up but is definately testing boundries to say the least. I adore her but she is very emotional and sooooo stubborn! I'm hope that as she matures she'll calm down a bit! I also wish she knew that 5am is not a great time to wake up!!! It drives me crazy! But there are so many loving and sweet sides to her - I need to celebrate those more!

We are LOVING the renovations and all the space we now have. I'm clearing out lots of scrap stuff. I'm sick of hanging onto things I don't use. Have given away a tonne of paper and there's still more to go! I actually wonder how we lived here before! Life is just rolling along I cannot believe it's September already. We are preparing for Lola's first birthday in November and Christening party then on to Poppy's 4th birthday - she has requested "Tinkerbell everything" and I'm having a crack at a dolly varden cake! LOVE them!

I have been doing a little scrapping...you'll be seeing some photo double ups as some pics are needed for both girls' albums. These are dodgy pics...not time to scan and stitch!

We had an awesome Father's day! One of Tony's mates and his family were over from Sydney and so we had a great morning tea with them and his other mates...actually all his groomsmen. My how times have changed...wives, toddlers and babies everywhere...just wonderful really!

Have a wonderful week!

wahhhhhhhhhh....no mojo!

2009-07-28T02:01:00.000-07:00

Yep my scrapping has come to a HUGE halt! And I mean HUGE! Just have had no time, energy, enthusiasm for it in months! It feels strange...I have been through creative dry spells before but never to this degree. I really have no desire for DTs, mags etc...it's all very "F.L.A.T" at the moment! I really need to get some new photos developed and I would imagine that will get me going again! But finding the time is the problem!

I do want to keep up with Lola's album and she is one cute subject! So best I get myself some pics and start recording my family moments!

Life with two kids is so much more hectic. Poppy seems alot more settled since we have moved home and lots of things have fallen into place - including toilet training - finally! She is great company at the moment and has me in stitches most of the time!

Lola has been sick but is on the road to recovery thank goodness!

oh here is my new scrap space - a built in desk behind bifold doors in the familyroom!... LOL - if only I was scrapping!

Wild windy weather...

2009-06-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

Well it has been blowing a gale here and pouring with rain! Great for the plants but keeps us cooped up inside!!
So we have been doing puzzles, reading, drawing, and even baking! While I don't like winter, I do like winter food! Have dragged out the slow cooker and we have tried lots of yummy WW casseroles and a delish chicken pie! Poppy LOVES cooking...She didn't get that from me - from both Nan's I think! And the best part of baking a cake is licking the beaters - of course!

And this little cheeky girl is just gorgeous but still not crawling - doesn't really like being on the ground - would much rather everyone hold her and entertain her!LOL!

And three more dodgy photos of more LOs for the 20 LO challenge - really like the "clever" one the other two...hmmm??? Not so much! So that is 9 LOs so far and one on my desk so half way there! Luckily because I am sooooooo eyeing off the new October afternoon papers!

Thanks for popping by!

LO challenge...

2009-06-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

So I am well underway with my "20 LOs from my stash before I can buy anthing new" challenge!
Here are the first 5, plus I have done a double...sorry about the dodgy pics, usually I scan and stitch but I can't be bothered!
DH came home with a 24 hour vomitting flu on Friday...I had it last night, so I'm feeling pretty ordinary today! Hope the girls don't get it!
Love this one of Lola
White with one challenge

Love that vintage bambi iron on!

XXX

Lola @ six months & rainy day fun...

2009-06-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

It's a rainy old day here today so Poppy wanted to make an "egg lady" - a quick and fun activity. We blew all the egg out, washed the egg then decorated with old bits of PP, buttons and flowers. You need to use strong glue. Poppy needed a lot of help but older kids could do this with ease! Apparently this little one is Sophie - she's already is already hanging out in the dolls house!PMSL!

I'm finally uploading all the pics that have been sitting in my camera for months and look at this little beauty...she is such a sweetheart! Those eyes, that big gummy smile...ahhhh ...she melts my heart. She is looking alot more like Poppy at the same age I think it's those big chubby cheeks!

I have done some scrapping but am yet to scan them - I have sooooooooo much PP that I'm going in a pledge at the SM forum to do 20 LOs before I buy anthing new! I have already done 3 singles and 1 double! Well on my way! Still sorting out the house too...rearranging and seeing what works best for us!

Woooooooo Hoooooooooo!

2009-06-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

We are finally back in our house!!! YAY! That was the longest 6 months of my life LOL! Some very tiring and

stressful moments, hours and days along the way but luckily all worth it! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the house and it's new size, layout and gadgets! We went from a two bedroom, one bathroom house with NO storage to a lovely renovated four bedroom, two bathroom home, new kitchen, familyroom, laundry, scrap space for me, walk-in linen cupboard, and a walk in robe for our room, linked to ensuite!!!

We still have a few bits and pieces to do, decorating inside but mainly outside, gardens etc...But I am LOVIN' IT!!! Storage everywhere!!! DH is happy - he's a neat freak. The girls are thrilled! Lola finally has a nursery and Poppy is having a ball rediscovering all her toys that were packed up.She also loves her new bed and room to play in! So we are all a very happy bunch!

It kinda feels like our life was on hold - living out of a suitcase for 16 weeks!!! Luckily my inlaws and Oma were all wonderful, helping out in soooo many ways! Then my lovely parents came down and help clean up and unpack!

So what has happened in 6 months???

They knocked off the back of my house the day I gave birth!
I had my beautiful baby girl - Lola Rose
Poppy turned 3
Lola was a wonderful and easy new baby sleeping and feeding, just divine!
Crazy Christmas and festive season as a family of 4
Lots of construction and mess in the house
They ripped out our kitchen and we had to move out of the house - "should be five weeks"....ummm try 16 weeks!
Lots of running around - living between three houses - stressful!
Poppy started kindy one day a week
Poppy started new swimming lessons - such a HUGE improvement.
Easter with my family in Gero
I got a new car - black Ford Territory 4wd.
I started back to work after Easter - 1.5 days a week - Lola refused the bottle and cried all the time(a mumma's girl) More stress! Poor Lola and poor MIL!
I lost the 20 kg I put on while pregnant with Lola - joined WW and am now a committed member LOVE it! Still have a some toning up to do but it's all good!
Lola is HUGE - loves her solids, sitting up, rolling everywhere...
Lots of new babies in our friendship circle - so exciting!
Only scrapped 5 LOs in the last 6 months - all my supplies were packed up.
Tonnes of photos and scrapping and socialising to catch up on.
Lola and Poppy are both sleeping throught the night since we moved home! YAY!
Now at home, all happy, healthy, smiling and loving our cosy family and home. Sounds cheesy but it's true! LOL!

These were a couple of LOs for Scraploot...

Not sure if anyone is even still checking in here LOL! Off to check out other blogs!
Photos of the house, kids and LOs soon!
X X

Still floating about...just...

2009-03-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

Well I'm hardly at home at all - the mess just got worse with two new doorways being knocked in/out? One in Poppy's old room and one in our bedroom - rubble and dust EVERYWHERE!!! But we are on track and the fittings are arriving - bath and laundry cabnets are in...so it is taking shape!

Therefore, no scrapping, just hanging out a Dh's Oma's house to give my inlaw's a break from us!

Poppy is great...growing like a weed, lovin' school and swimming lessons and Lola is a delight...cute and easy going!

So I'm still about but I doubt any scrapping will occur until after Easter!

Hope you are all happy and well..thanks to those who still pop by! XX

Quick share...

2009-02-13T01:13:00.000-08:00

Well the kitchen has gone completely so the house is an utter mess...stuff everywhere - all a bit stressful really! So we are living up the road with my Inlaws who have been fabulous! We are going between the two houses...roll on Easter, when this will hopefully be over! YAY!

But my little woes are nothing really when you hear of all those families who now have no homes and worse still those who have lost love ones to the bush fires...so sad and senseless!

A quick share...some LOs for Wicked Princess Kits..these kits are great value and full of fabulous products! This month I played with the girly and fun Enchantress kit!Check it out here !

Not sure when I'll be back on...soon I hope! LOL!

My big kindy girl...

2009-02-05T20:49:00.000-08:00

Well she was lovin' it when I left her this morning...surprisingly I felt a bit teary when dropped her off! She wasn't worried in the slightest far too busy looking at the toys and puzzles.

Her school bag is as big as her! LOL! And she wouldn't let me help her carry..."I do it myself mumma!"

and this was my kitchen this morning...

and my kitchen by lunchtime - eeeeeek!!!

For sale.........

2009-02-04T23:35:00.000-08:00

Nothing at all to do with scrapping...LOL but due to our renovations, I am selling this gorgeous antique kitchenette... in great condition - needs a new latch on one door. If you are local (Perth) and at all interested email me for more details! melba_1@hotmail.com . I'm sad to see it go!

I'm hanging out to scrap but the kitchen gets knocked out/down tomorrow so the everything is everywhere....I'm a bit over it but it will be worth it in the end!
What a week...Poppy started new swimming lessons at a new pool and the teacher was fantastic! She did more in one lesson this week than she has in the last year at the old place. So glad we made the move. Even I hopped in with her for a play...scary...still have lots of "baby weight" to lose!! But well on my way!
Miss P starts 3yr old Kindy tomorrow...she can't wait! I know she'll love it but I worry too as she has never been in the care of anyone except family....excited and nervous for her! I can't believe she has a bag and lunch box...where has my baby gone! ***Sigh***

Are you a card maker??? The girls at Wicked Princess Kits are looking for 2 Design Team Members to be a part of their NEW CARD KIT DESIGN TEAM. Do you have what it takes to be a part of their exciting Design Team?? If so, then they want you !!! The girls want someone with passion and drive, someone who isn’t afraid to let their Wicked Princess dominate their creativity !!
Does this sound like you? Do you have what it takes??
Want to know more? Go HERE

Three months...

2009-02-03T23:20:00.000-08:00

Lil Lola is Three Months old already! Each month that passes breaks my heart a little, it's going so quickly....I am just enjoying her babyhood sooooo much! Pure delight!

Weight -
Length -
hates tummy time - needs it though...recommendations from the physio
Loves to be held/cuddled
loves sucking her dummy & fists
reaches out for her toys
loves chatting and laughing at people, toys and light fittings !
can roll from her tummy onto her back
Sleeps through the nights but has just started to briefly wake at 4am..not looking for a feed - just playing!
feeds 3/4 hourly during the day.
Smiley and social just like her big sister!
She's a doll!

ohhhh reno's

2009-01-26T18:13:00.000-08:00

Soooo excited that we can really see the rooms coming together with our renovations!

Toy cupboard and my scrapspace to the right - it will be a built in desk and cupboards behind bi-folding doors in the familyroom! YAY! Behind is the laundry and passage way down to the kid's bathroom and bedrooms!

New family room!
Back of the original house they are knocking down that wall and gutting the kitchen next week - we'll have to move out while they fit the kitchen. It's all moving much quicker than we expected!

And these two precious girls have been soooo good throughout the renovations - Lola sleeps through it all and Poppy has tried her best while we have no backyard to play in - very hard for such an active girl.

Have a few LOs to share -be back later once they are scanned.

Hope you had a fab Australia day! We went to a BBQ the day before and had a quiet one on the day, stayed under the aircon listening to JJJ hotest 100...I came down sick with flu - like symptoms - the start of mastitis but luckily I kept on feeding Lola and have woken up OK today!

Scrap share...

2009-01-21T01:10:00.000-08:00

Making a start on Lola's Album....yay! LOVE these BG papers... Soft and sweet...

Those first precious hugs with Poppy...

It's all a bit hectic here - we have been away and now we have to catch up on appointments for Lola, health checks, physio etc..Getting Poppy ready for Kindy, finally toilet training, the house is a mess...due to the renovations - driving me a little crazy, but we are half way there! So scrapping is a little on the back burner.

On a completely different topic - did you see the footage of Barack Obama being sworn in today? Gave me goosebumps...what a wonderful and inspiring man. What a brilliant and historical day! He is such an amazing speaker! It must be such a hard political and economic time to take on such and important role...I wish him all the best. Not only a great day for America but for the world I think!

Two months

2009-01-07T22:43:00.001-08:00

Just for me really but our lovely Lola Rose is already TWO MONTHS OLD!

Time is flying by and I am smitten with her. She really is so easy!

Weight -

Length - 60cm

Hair - wild and spiky! The colour is changing...it was dark brown but now seems to have some red coming through. Not sure what it will be maybe strawberry blonde?

started sleeping throught the night at 5 weeks!!!YAY!!! Still sleeps alot actually!

still had jaundice(sp?) until 6 weeks and looked like she was sporting a spray tan, but now has our very pale skin colouring - poor luv!

feeds really well - breast fed only, bit of piggy -overflows with milk often.
smiling at six weeks - very happy lots of smiling and giggles

loves her bathtime
lots of cooing and sweet bubba noises

Has already started to outgrow some of her 000 outfits due to her length!

*sigh* she is growing so quickly and I am loving her to bits!

Miss P still continues to entertain us with her quirky ways, big personality, extensive language and social skills and all that endless energy! She loves Lola but isn't too fussed on all the attention she gets - normal for a 3 year old who has been knocked off her HUGE pedestal! LOL! I think she will love kindy this year.

The black balloon....

2008-12-26T14:34:00.000-08:00

Oh my God! Do yourself a favour and go and rent this movie if you haven't seen it yet!

Set in the kitsch splendour of 1980's Australian suburbia, it takes me back to my teen years! It's a glimpse inside the chaos of family with two teenage sons, one who is severely autistic. Director Elissa Down grew up with an autistic brother, so she has an amazing insight. I just loved Toni Collett's character - she is such an amazing actor!

A teacher I have taught many autistic children and this just shows a snipit of home life with an autistic child. Makes you have even more compassion for all those parents raising autistic children!

Another FANTASTIC Aussie movie!

We wish you a...

2008-12-24T05:33:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

May your Christmas be filled with love and laughter!

We have wrapped those last pressies, been to church, put out the milk and cookies for Santa, the girls are tucked up in bed - dreaming of that jolly red man no doubt! Can't wait for the morning. Poppy will really "get it" this year! Can't wait to see her face light up while unwrapping the presents!

I think our family received the best gift when Lola arrived in November....such a blessing! I already have everything I need!

Tis the season!

2008-12-15T14:09:00.000-08:00

The winner of the RAK is Magical Moments! And since so many were keen, I drew another name and Sar I will post you a small Christmas embellishment RAK - stamps, flowers,bling etc... Please email me with your addresses : melba_1@hotmail.com

These were Lola's thankyou cards...

And a Kaiser album I did for SCRAPLOOT...there is a step by step on their blog!

I have LOs to share...but I have to scan them....
We are off to show off Lola at Dh's school today. It's their last day, I'm sure his students will be very excited - I'm sure the teachers are!

Christmas is coming....

2008-12-07T20:01:00.001-08:00

Completely bias but geeze they are CUTE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well we have had a hectic week but I guess everyone feels like this at this time of the year! Am madly making 50+ thankyou cards for Lola's gifts, then it will be onto Christmas cards - I only had the chance to take photos of the girls today. Poppy is happy to pose now - last year she was scared of the Santa hat and refused to wear it...bit tricky with Lola being so little and floppy LOL but we'll use what we got!

What's been happening -

*scrapping for the Scraploot blog

*scrapping for Wicked Kits

* Thankyou cards

* About to whip up Christmas Cards

* Dying to get some LOs done - challenge blogs like White with One.

* Putting up a small Christmas Tree today - with renovations going on there is limited room!

* We had our playgroup Christmas party...great family day!

* My birthday yesterday - got a gorgeous vintage ring from DH - marcasite, black enamel - art deco - gorgeous, chockies, candles, lipstick, lots of cash and vouchers...spoilt!!! Had fish and chips at the beach with friends!

* Last of the Christmas shopping

Sooooooooooo here is a RAK....overflowing with Christmas papers(about 15), ribbons, stamps, felt deers etc... if you would like this to make it's way to your place leave your name and we'll pick out a random winner later this week... 'Tis the season!

Renovations...full steam ahead...

2008-12-02T15:51:00.000-08:00

This what the back of our house use to look like...to the left was an old grotty laundry and a toilet on the right a draughty enclosed verandah - we only could use it for storage/junk room as it was dusty etc...waste of space really!

This what they did to the back half of our house - the day I went to hospital to have Lola!!!!

So we came home with a newborn and no laundry, active toddler and no backyard!!! What a mess!!!!!!!!!!But at least it was finally underway!

Well I'm excited to say that the brick work is basically all done(must get a pic) and the roof is starting tomorrow! They have been working at a cracking pace! Our builder/project manager is fantastic! All building will stop over Christmas and January and then the messiest and most exiting for me - the kitchen will be gutted and redone!!! YAY!!!!

Be back with a RAK..

2008-11-23T16:54:00.000-08:00

All going well here although very little scrapping - due to space constraints - not lack of wanting to get back into it! Also have to get a heap of photos printed!

Lola is a DREAM baby ....I'm utterly in love with her! She just feeds so well, sleeps, and coos...so delish! She is so easy.... Poppy has been *interesting* - loving towards Lola, just sooky and whingy towards Dh and I. I'm sure she'll get over it!LOL! She had her birthday party at an indoor playcentre - she is such a cack - she ran around like a maniac for about 3 hours! All our family and friends came along and she was thoroughly spoilt!

Miss Poppy's Strawberry Shortcake theme cake....

And if this divine lil girl doesn't make you clucky....god she makes me clucky for more...or that could be the hormones talking...either way it's is wonderful! She is feeding so well and gaining weight....

**** Will be back with RAK photos...promise!****

She is three....

2008-11-16T22:18:00.000-08:00

Well the wonderful Miss Poppy turns THREE today! My god the time just flies...

She was thoroughly spoilt with a scooter & helmet, art board and art set, large Dora doll &
Dora laptop, tea set, clothes, puzzles and books and a mini keyboard! With more to come....OMG ruined I tell ya!
We opened pressies, then went to Playgroup to share some pink cupcakes...and Poppy doesn't mind bashing out the Birthday song to herself ! She is having a party on Sunday at one of those toddler indoor centres - easy - no cooking and no cleaning up - I'm very happy with that one! And has requested Stawberry Shortcake cake - so I've gone with that theme!

From this...

To this....

At Three she...

loves books and loves being read to - any book, any time!

can count to 27
knows most colours
knows all the basic shapes ie circle, square...

loves people - will chat to anyone who looks her way, completely social

is into Yo Gabba Gabba and Dora and Playschool

loves water and sand

loves outdoor play, the park, swings, the backyard - collects sticks and leaves...

is a tiny eater - far too busy for food

is strong willed, noisy, has a great sense of humour already

loves to sing and dance around the house all day long

collects the mail daily and is thrilled to find those envelopes waiting for her

is a great sleeper - still has an afternoon nap every day!

Love creative roleplay and dress ups - loves to play "cafe" - making 'chino's for everyone!

Has just become a big sister and is loving and gentle with Lola

loves blowing out candles at everyone else's birthdays

Is affectionate but also independent

Adores her daddy

Is a bright ray of sunshine in our lives

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY GORGEOUS GIRL!

A thank you and a late Halloween LO & Pics....

2008-11-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

Firstly, thanks for all the lovely well wishes and comments on the arrival of Lola. She is a seriously easy bub so far...just feeds and sleeps, hardly cries at all...so sweet...so easy! We are all madly in love with her!

Forgot to load up these Halloween pics and a LO for SCRAPTIVATE....using delish Cosmo cricket papers...lots of new stock in at the shop - Perth girls get in there!!!

My Nephew had his 18th Birthday on Halloween so of course a dress up party was in order...Poppy was indeed a VERY cute witch. We went trick and treating around my sister's neighbourhood, lots of lollies handed out! It was a great party...all the "teens/young ones" were dressed up and went to a great effort...they were all well behaved. We left quite early as it was only a few days before I had Lola...

Here are some pics of Poppy and the cup cakes I decorated for Blake's b'day!

It's Poppy's 3rd birthday tomorrow, baking more cupcakes today - check in over then next couple of days as I'm going to put together a "PINK" RAK - in celebration of Poppy's special day and our new pink bundle of joy.

Hope to get some scrapping done but I had to pack everything away... Lola's things have taken over the table I use as our renovations have started and space is limited...yep they literally knocked off the back of our house the day I went to hospital - looks like a cyclone has hit our back yard! So I got home with a new born and NO laundry, a VERY active toddler and no backyard...thank god for my MIL who has been a godsend - doing ALL our washing!

We went out for an amazing lunch yesterday, T. is taking Miss P off to church this morning then we are taking her to Macca's as a treat....she has been pretty housebound this week!Hope you are having a fab weekend !

He's out numbered....

2008-11-10T18:52:00.000-08:00

Lola Rose

born on the 4th - Melbourne Cup Day at 1.50pm by c-section.

Weight - 7lb, 91/2 ounces

Length - 54 cm (long for a girl)

Head - 35 cm

Eye colour dark blue

Hair - dark brown

Thanks Lisa for letting blog land know! And thanks to all those who left warm wishes for our family...it truly warms my heart!

Lola looked almost exactly like Poppy when she was born!! In those first tiring days in hospital I would wake in the night and think she was Poppy!

We woke early on the 4th and had a lovely big cooked breakfast as I would have to fast from 7am onwards. We were booked in for a 1pm C-section delivery. I really had hoped for a shot at a natural birth this time, after a stressful emergency ceasar with Poppy. But due to a few factors the safest option was a planned c-section. So we got organised and dropped Poppy off at my inlaws house...she stays there a bit so she wasn't stressed at all...I on the other hand sobbed as the car pulled out of the drive way!LOL!

We arrived at the hospital just after 11.30am, settled into my room, signed the last of the documentation, I showered and gowned up, Tony only just fitted into his outfit! And then we waited, I was wheeled down to a waiting area and the anethetist(sp?) was running late. Another couple were waiting across from us and the dad looked sooooo nervous - first timers!We missed the Melbourne cup and then things started moving. I HATE all things medical and needles freak me out but it all went pretty well...even though it didn't hurt much ,I sobbed and sobbed, mainly due to stress and nerves, during the placement of the epidural...the staff were great and Tony was amazing!!!Then my Ob walked in and all the theatre staff...everyone seemed cheery and lighthearted! They started the incision and the pulling - I HATE that part...it freaks me out...they seemed to be pulling and pulling, I thought something was wrong...was the baby stuck??? But no, after few minutes she was out and we waited for that much anticipated cry...and cry she did, so did I!The Ob. covered her genitals and asked us to guess...boy or girl? All the staff were chanting boy or girl? Tony yelled Boy, I yelled girl and then all was revealed...another princess to add to our family. Tony is well and truly out numbered now.

It was such a better experience this time, they placed Lola straight on me, then checked her over - she was perfect - then she and Tony came with me to the recovery area...Last time Poppy was whisked away, I now realise that I had actally blocked out so much of her birth experience due to stress!

So all went well, breastfeeding, recovery and general emotions have all been so much easier on me. Lola is an absolute delight!She is sleeping and feeding so well! Poppy still thinks her name is charlie and tells everyone that her sister is charlie! Poppy was sick with a cold and the flu during the week so I didn't see her much and it broke my heart. But she is on the mend now and such a little helper now we are home!

So if you are still awake after all that....here are some pics!LOL!

xxxx

Wicked November kit...

2008-11-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

Two LOs I did before I went to hospital - Wicked Kits Mermaid November...

Very shabby chic, vintagy papers Yummo!

The kit comes with a small Maya Road chippy album - I actually pulled it apart and used the hearts as embellishments on the Bond LO....

******************************************************
This is a LO I did for the latest SC Sketch feature....loved being apart of it but the pics of the LOs in the mag were tiny!!!!Loved the what the other girls came up with too! This is Poppy making gingerbread men with her cousin Darcy!

2008-11-04T17:16:00.000-08:00

hi folks ...its the witch here...just to let you know that

our wonderful friend and creative inspiration has

delivered a beautiful girl today ..

her name LOLA ROSE CORBETT ..

mother and baby are doing well.

let me just take this opportunity to welcome

lil LOLA into the special Corbett family.

CONGRATULATIONS AND CELEBRATIONS

heres what your in for

“A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier, clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for..

love to all

Any day now.......

2008-11-03T02:46:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned........

One........leave your vote

2008-10-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

Yep...One week to go....I can't wait, although this pregnancy has flown! I'm feeling OK - he/she is very active but there isn't much room in there - it tends to ache and hurt when she/he stretches away....

We had some hideous news last week a friend's uterus ruptured, she is in an induced coma, bled for 13 hours and her baby is eight weeks early, lots more awful details that don't need to be written here... but please offer up a prayer, healing vibes - whatever works for you...

I'm very excited, a little nervous , lots of funny mixed up emotions going on...

Will I go early?

Will we have a boy or a girl?

Will the c-section go according to plan?

Will we get a redhead?(LOL)

Will I recover better this time round?

Will Poppy be OK for the week I am in hospital?

Will I cope being away from her for a week?

Will Dh dress her in semi matching clothes - jokes!

How will I ever leave the house with TWO kids to organise?(LOL)

How will Poppy see her new brother/sister? Friend or Foe?

It's all swirling around in my head!!!

Anyway....my mojo is also in full swing - new photos and new papers really get me going - like most scrappers!

So here are a couple plus I have another 3 for DT work that I'll put up later!

LOVE these dolly photos

LOVE these BG papers - now at Scraptivate...

LOVE these two crazies having fun at the Royal Show...

Finally - I have NO idea if this precious bub is a boy or a girl....

What do you think? Gender, weight, hair colour???

Leave a message with your vote!LOL!

(Poppy was 7lb3, 52 cm and mousey hair - at full term)

I'm much heavier this time!

Two...

2008-10-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

Two weeks to go!!! Eeeeeekkkkk! Car seats/capsule fitted, last of the little linen washed, towels, singlets done... Saw my Ob. this week and all looks good, he doesn't need to see me next week unless something happens or I feel I really need to see him! He gave me the run down, times etc.. so it is all seeming more and more real! Had my hair coloured and cut...you know all the important things - PMSL! And am pampering my self next week - nails, pedicure, the works!

Even cleaned up the bulk of my scrap space...so the scrapping flowed!

Some new Basic Grey..

Poppy hangin' out with her "boy" cousins...she LOVES playing with them!

And Poppy checking the mail - She LOVES checking it everyday...gets all excited, never tires of it! Oh to love such simple pleasures!(need to ink the title so it stands out more!)

There are another couple of LOs to come...just putting on the final touches!

Three...

2008-10-15T04:06:00.000-07:00

Three weeks to go....and I'm counting the days! My tummy is sooooo tight, he/she is still very active but with jarring large kicks and stretches, add my swollen feet and insomnia is back...well I'll be more than happy to meet this bundle!LOL!
Everything is great really and I have bought a few new goodies for this bub..pink and blue as I have NO idea...I thought girl, then recently boy, now I'm thinking girl again? Like I said no idea, and I honestly don't mind either way!

Poppy has been really gorgeous....she is such a funny little thing...has me in stitches all day! Bought her THE cutest witches costume - my nephew is having his 18th and he was a halloween baby so he is having a costume party! Should be a blast! Although he is quite laid back - I think my sisters and I are more excited about it! Can't believe he is 18!!!

Quick LO share...

Some Guest DT work for Scaploot - I sooooooooo recommend the shop - the service from Sue, the owner - is so efficent and quick!

And a fun one for White with One....

Have a great week...the weather here is HOT HOT HOT! Yay! Bring on Summer!

Wicked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-08T22:51:00.000-07:00

Soooooooooo very happy here....Tam and Karen from WickedPrincess Kit Club have invited me to be on their DT!!!!My god the kits are delish.... and there are a pile of AMAZING scrappers on the DT - so lots of inspiration to be found in the gallery here -

http://www.wickedprincesses.com.au/wickedstore/

Go on get over there.....

Four....

2008-10-06T02:04:00.000-07:00

A dash of scrapping - LOVE LOVE LOVE these papers from KAISERCRAFT... I was sent some goodies to play with(tonnes actually!!!) The green is more lime IRL....so lovely!And Poppy and her Gf hanging out at the Justine Clarke concert! LOL! Mosh pit babes!

OMG what a hectic day!!! Miss P had a day at my sister's house so T. and I could go and pick out basically ALL..yep...ALL the fittings for the renos - that were meant to have started in mid August!(bloody council!!!! GRRRRRR) Now it' s race to see whether the baby or the bulldozer comes first! eekkkk! But I'm trying not to get stressed! It has to happen, I can't make it go any faster and what will be will be....*sigh*
We'd a had a bit of a look previously but today confirmed -Bricks for exterior, half brick and half render(sp?) to match our 1930s house, tiles for laundry, bathroom & "powderoom" - that's what they are calling a toilet with a basin and mirror these days LOL! Internal doors and french doors for the familyroom
All kitchen appliances - MY GOD sooooo many options but settled on - new oven, stove top, rangehood, fridge, diswasher...all in stainless steel look - fingerprint safe!!! T. is eying off some hideously HUGE TV thingo...LOL
Tomorrow's jobs - kitchen & laundry cupboards/doors, bench tops...I know what I want just have to check prices and styles! White, white, white! And paint samples - ummmmm white!The whole baths, toilets, basins ....are doing my head in but just need to see a few more options!
We also fitted in our hospital visit to confirm our booking - luckily only a few small "gaps" cost wise - thank god for private health cover - worth every cent! Have my Ob. appointment tomorrow....I think I'm up to weekly visits now!
Great news - our Oma is back in her own home - although very weak and still not eating much! But she is much more comfortable there! Between the family and some services for home help she seems OK for the moment!

I will have some other great news to share soon and some more LOs....

A HUGE CONGRATS TO NIC P. ON THE ARRIVAL OF HER NEW BABY BOY - DEACON!!!

X

Five....

2008-10-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

hmmmmmm this is really for my own records....I "lost" a week somehow! LOL!

So this should have been for last week - 5 weeks to go.
Ob. appointment - I was meant to be going up to see my family next week, for some of mum's cooking, some rest and Poppy to be spoilt by her cousins....well my doctor said NO! If by chance I went into early labour I would have to have an emergency c-section with a doctor I didn't know or worse, as it is a 4-5 hour drive,if driving I could be in HUGE trouble...that pesky low placenta! Even with my booked c-section I have to have my blood supply on hand as there is a high risk of hemorrhage - I might need a transfusion. A little scary but I completely trust my Ob. so I'll just do what ever he says. If I show any signs of labour or bleeding I have to go straight to the hospital and the bub will have to come out straight away! I don't have a history of early labour so I'm sure it will all go to plan.

Our Oma is recovering in hospital - all sorts of problems, heart & thyroid conditions, she is still a little confused at times and thinks she should be going home every morning! But she is chatty and has good colour although not really eating! She is receiving great care!

My last week of work YAY! The staff collected an awesome "Baby basket" for us! Absolutely amazing generosity - two big boxes overflowing with baby goodies - wipes, lotions, toys, rattles, bibs, 15 little outfits, books...the list is endless...so spoilt!And a $100 voucher for Babyland! Woo Hoo!

We took Poppy to her first "Perth Royal Show" - OMG we had such a fabulous family day!Poppy was soooooo well behaved! A morning of rides, showbags, hot chips, the farm animals, Pony rides, ice cream...LOVED IT ALL!!! Quite funny watching my 6ft5" Dh go on the rides with her in "Kiddy Land"

Wicked Kits!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

I was asked to have a play with a gorgeous kit from the girls at Wicked Princess Kits...check them out here....

http://wickedprincesses.blogspot.com/

I had a ball with lots of Heidi Swapp Papers, Hambly and a dash of Jenni Bowlin! Being a "cluster" freak I simply added some bits and bobs from my own stash..great way of using up all those little embellishments.I really love the papers and the colour combo..so soft and sweet yet still funky!

Here are the LOs I created!

After quite a stressful week, it felt great to create with such fun papers....go and check them out!!!

Six....

2008-09-21T16:33:00.000-07:00

Bit behind on this post....but all is going good although last week was a stressful one for us as our beautiful Oma(Dh's Grandmother) got very sick and had a heart attack in an ambulance on the way to hospital. We were terrified.... She is now still in hospital in the Cardio Unit and in very good care. She seems to be improving everyday and they are talking about when she goes home so that sounds very positive to me!!! My biggest problem is that I saw her the first morning but she had a very bad vomitting virus and vomitted for two days straight.(Not good for anyone let alone an 86 year old!) So now the staff think it is not a good idea for myself or Poppy to visit incase we get it. I understand and don't want to put us at risk but it is soooooo frustrating! I never had grandparents growing up so she is so special to me....she treats me as if I have always been her grandchild, we love chatting, I love her stories, we love having a coffee together!

Please say a prayer or send some healing vibes....I want her to see this new life I am carrying....we all need more time together!

And ironically - we had a scan yesterday of our newest family member...just to check if my placenta had moved - nope still low...but shouldn't be a problem as I am definately having a C-section. The utlrasound lady who is often very 'cold' but excellent in her field was really positive...saying how healthy bub looked! So that was nice.Bub was very active, all organs look great, already head down, quite big - in the 75+ percentile, and has long legs... the last one cracked me up - with Dh's height, 6ft5"...no suprises there! Got an awesome 3d pic of her/his face....chubby cheeks like Poppy. And NO we still don't know the gender! We'll find out in FIVE weeks!!!

It is my last week of work this week!!! Yay! Although I gotta say I absolutely LOVE my job this year but with my expanding belly, puffy feet and afternoon fatigue I'll be happy to stay home! I will have 6 months off then will hopefully return to my one and a half days a week at work!

Poppy has been an absolute delight and is back to a normal sleep pattern - waking around 6.30am which is fabulous compared to the 5am starts we were having! eeeekkkk - HATED it!

Now she is happier and so are we! She is such a little chatterbox and at the moment is fixated on singing the ABC song ALL day long...and also into names - wants to know everyone's names ie at the shops, the doctors....she will chat to anyone! Precious girl!

And don't fall off your chair but I have been scrapping aswell!! I am also have a HUGE clean out so stay tuned for some RAKS.... I gave away about 100 pieces of PP last week - didn't even make a dent in the stash! eeekkkkkkk!

Here is a LO for SCRAPTIVATE.....I hear new stock has arrived so either get online or Perth girls get to the shop.... Getting into the cuttlebug and metalic tap. They have loads of new dies and folders instore!

Lastly how HOT HOT HOT is the top 50 List for SM masters this year!!! Congrats to ALL the girls...it really is an exciting time! I wouldn't like to try and pick out of those talented ladies...all Master quality I think! Special TOOT for my Perth girls Binxy and Mel C....my god their talent is OUTSTANDING!

I'll be back later - I have about 6 LOs to scan!

Shopping....

2008-09-10T18:45:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm... what happens when you can't really fit into any clothes you like because your belly is HUGE?? You shop for a new handbag, new wallet and this week I'm going to be picking out a silver Pandora for myself...not to mention Miss P's summer wardrobe is filling up pretty quickly - lots of "gymboree" brand from the US - cute cherry, strawberry and flamingo prints and images!! Loving my new large silver guess bag....it will actually be my new nappy bag....

I don't think I'll be going near the shops in Nov and Dec...so I'm getting my goodies now! LOL!

Any excuse!!!

We found out Poppy was accepted for "Pre Kindy" at a great little school this week. So she will go one day a week next year. It will good for me to have a day with the new bub and I know Poppy will LOVE it but it makes me realise she is growing up sooo quickly!She has only ever been looked after by family so it will do her some good to mix it up with other kids and maybe realise the world doesn't completely revolve around her - PMSL!

Butter wouldn't melt....

Working on some mag work and DT work for Scraploot.....

Seven.....

2008-09-08T05:19:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a lovely Father's Day! We had a great time at my inlaw's - my MIL is such a great cook! Poppy entertained the troops...we even watched some of the video of Poppy from when she was first born...she was very interested in "that baby" - it made me all emotional. I can't wait!

Last week we went to the Playschool Concert...I loved it!Alex Papps was one of the presenters - god I remember him on Home and Away when I was a teenager! He has hardly changed!Poppy liked it but I think she enjoyed Justine more - all that crazy dancing!

Here are some pics of my ever expanding girth....god how much bigger can it get???eeeeek!!Poppy kissing the baby - looks like she is blowing up an enormous balloon - LOL!

And some scrapping of a VERY PRECIOUS GIRL - SHELBY..... she's the daughter of Mel and saddly no longer with us....Mel needed some help to create Shelby's memory album and asked me to do the cover. I was honoured and I hope Mel likes it! Makes you appreciate what you have...count your blessings and give your kids that extra cuddle tonight....

Front cover...still might have more of a play...

Back cover.....vintage buttons

xx

Eight....

2008-09-01T15:57:00.000-07:00

Yes I'm on the count down now...only EIGHT weeks until we meet our precious bub!!!
Soooooooooo excited! Still soaking, sorting and washing lots of Poppy's baby items, sheesh....I bought SO much when she was little. Bucket loads of PINK - if it's all girl we have EVERYTHING...if it's a boy, well, we'll hit the shops for some blue!LOL.
I'm feeling good - just rather heavy and still have joint problems. I have complete "pregnancy brain" and forget things all the time, lose my car keys daily and forget what I am talking about mid sentence....
Poppy is getting rather excited and wants to hold and wash the baby apparently! She talks to my tummy daily and kisses it goodnight.
Recent conversation -
Me - What's in mumma's tummy Poppy?
P - a baby!!!
Me - is it a boy or girl?
P - (excitedly) a boy!(this changes daily!)
Me - Poppy, what will we call the baby?
P - (Yelling at my belly) WAKE UP BABY- (see she is "calling" it - LOL)
Me - no hun, what will we name the baby
P - Charlie...
Me - what the?
I have no idea where Charlie has come from( we don't even know a Charlie) but she is convinced that's the baby's name - sorry Poppy, it's not even on our short list! We actually have both our boy's and girl's name picked out so it really is just the waiting game now.

The very gorgeous Chelle J nominated me for this bit of LOVE...thanks Chelle....as I feel my blog has been a bit light on with scrapping images lately! I have more to share soon!

Lots of girls I would like to nominate would have been already nominated and there are so many inspirational bloggers out there.... I *heart*...

LISA - scrapwitch, paint queeen

DONNA - kebab, mixin' it up

AM - love ya work

MALIN - always precious work

MEL HEATHER - photos and LOs that are eye candy

JULIE HEARD - pure eye candy!

I'll be back with some LOs after work today!!

Back on track....

2008-08-25T03:15:00.000-07:00

Finally scanned some recent scrapping...about time!LOL!

All is going well...we had a ball at the Justine Clarke concert...initially Poppy was a little overwhelmed, then she warmed up and made her way to the "mini mosh pit" and went a little nutso! It was hilarious watching her dancing with her lil friends! We lined up afterwards and met Justine and had a photo. What a GORGEOUS lady! She was just having a ball on stage and so nice to sign CDs and have photos with literally 100s of kids! What a great person! The stage was very cute - almost "bam pop"ish...very funky!

Poppy rocked out so hard she ended up with a small blister on her foot...but seem to grow and grow even though we kept her in socks or thongs......ewwwww it was enormous(about the size of a 20c piece) so I took her to the doctors todays and he sorted it out...won't go into details...ick!!!!

So she is now hobbling around telling anyone who will listen that she has a sore foot because of all her dancing at a concert!

The nesting factor is starting to set in and I am dragging out all those bits and pieces that were Poppy's when she was a new born...all that tiny linen, bunny rugs, teeny singlets...maddly soaking and washing them all. Also trying to chuck out some of the crap that piles up in cupboards....preparing for the renos! I'm over the clutter! Off for my next Ob appointment tomorrow!

And finally some scrapping...

For the White with One challenge blog...

Not sure it this one is quite finished...awwwwww look how little Poppy is...beginning to crawl! It's not really crooked ...bad scan!

One that was meant for Scrapworld before it closed...Jenni Bowlin papers!

And a terrible pic of a double...we visited a great lil wildlife park on the school holidays with my family! Looks better IRL!LOL!

Hope you have a great week!

Still here....just

2008-08-16T00:10:00.000-07:00

Well I haven't updated for a few weeks due to lack of creating, lack of photos, lack of sleep and up until the other day lack of internet. We had a problem with our connection but it is all fixed now. Have had a look on my fav. blogs but just lurking not leaving comments - so sorry for that will do the rounds soon!

What's been going on??? Well....

Poppy is still a little unsettled with her sleep and the average wake up time seems to be 5.30am - which I detest! I have never been a morning person but adjusted to our previous 6.30am start. That one hour less just seems like sooooooooo much more - plus it's so cold and pitch black...god knows why she would even want to get up. We have tried everything but it seems this is it for now! Thank god my DH gets up to her all week and I do the weekends. She is still pushing boundries but that is just the "toddler" stage I guess.

Pregnancy insomnia has also hit so I doze in and out of uneventful sleep from 2.30am onwards - very draining. But I guess I'll be up with a newborn soon so best get use to it!LOL!

Scrapping - little or nil due to tiredness....hope to tackle a few things ASAP. Still inspired by so many chickies I know IRL and online! I was excited to win a prize for the White with One challenge blog - check it out...it's a fun challenge blog!

Our reno plans had one "glitch" but should pass council in the next week or two - then the back of my house is getting ripped off - OMG what were we thinking? Well it has to be done and the sooner the better - I'm nervous, excited and scared all at the same time!

Have been working quite a bit at school - we had book week dress up day - I went to work dressed as pirate! A very FAT pirate LOL!

Starting to get bits and pieces ready for the new bub - only 11 weeks to go! I can't believe how quickly it seems to be going! I can't wait to meet him/her... I feel pretty good but my cocix(sp?) joint has gone and it is pretty painful!

We are off to see the Justine Clarke concert this week with some friends and their toddlers so I'm sure Poppy will have a ball!

The weather is glorious here so I'll be heading outside for some sunshine...

Back with some scrapping later....

Yawn.......

2008-07-25T01:00:00.000-07:00

Well we are now facing 5am wake ups with Poppy now that the dummy has gone...and shorter day sleeps - it is sooooooooo bloody tiring and she has thrown in a few HUGE, and I mean HUGE, tantrums to go with it all! So feeling rather flat, tired and frustrated! But not going to give in....hope she settles soon!
Other than that...all is well...I am 24 weeks today...so only 3 months to go...can't wait to meet this next bundle of joy!

A quick share...

Poppy baking gingerbread men...

One for Lisa....Aren't her girls beautiful!!!!!!!!!

And some cards I did for a CC challenge!

40 tips.....

2008-07-20T16:07:00.000-07:00

Hmmmmmmmm....lots going on...LOs and photos to share but have to upload...had lovely school holidays...more than a few tears and sooking from Poppy as we made her give up her dummy :(
But I thought she'd be MUCH worse....breaks my heart when she cries!

I'm getting BIGGER each week...waddling due to a sore back...Lots of tags to do on here...will be back later to share properly!

You know how you often get sent *those* inpirational emails....well here is a fabulous one that really struck a cord with me! Hope you like...

40 Tips for a Better Life
1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk,smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
3. Buy a DVR and tape your late night shows and get more sleep.
4. When you wake up in the morning complete the followingstatement, 'My purpose is to __________ today.
'5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
6. Play more games and read more books than you did in 2007.
7. Make time to practice meditation and prayer. They provide uswith daily fuel for our busy lives.
8. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the ageof 6.
9. Dream more while you are awake.
10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat lessfood that is manufactured in plants.
11. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wildAlaskan salmon, broccoli, spinach, kale greens, almonds & walnuts.
12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13. Clear clutter from your house, your car, your desk and letnew and flowing energy into your life.
14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, OR issues of thepast, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead investyour energy in the positive present moment.
15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn.Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade awaylike algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinnerlike a college kid with a maxed out charge card.
17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the NEGATIVE BLUES away.
18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
22. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea whattheir journey is all about.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In fiveyears, will this matter?'
26. Forgive everyone for everything.
27. What other people think of you is none of your business.
28. REMEMBER GOD heals everything.
29. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
30. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Yourfriends will. Stay in touch.
31. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
32. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.33. The best is yet to come.
34. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
35. Do the right thing!
36. Call or email your family often.
37. Each night before you go to bed complete the followingstatements: I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished_________.
38. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
39. Enjoy the ride. Remember this is not Disney World and youcertainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride throughlife so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.
40. Help someone that is less fortunate than yourself!

Thanks witchy....

2008-07-03T05:02:00.000-07:00

Created this lil number for the "White with One" challenge blog...yep - another button tree - LOL!

http://whitewith1.blogspot.com/

OMG....I was maddly trying to catch the post late this afternoon, parcles everywhere, people everywhere, Poppy touching everything and my DH rings as his Grandmother was in a bit of a delema(long story!) So in a fluster I paid all my postage and ran out only to just realise tonight, that the pizza box I had posted wasn't sealed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bugger....there are three LOs and all their paper work in there!

Wahhhhhhhhhh! I wonder if they realised - they normally tape them for me? I'll be on the their door step at 8am tomorrow morning! So annoyed with myself!!!! But on a lighter note...

....You made my day Lisa!!!! With this lil number....

Who gets the “Brilliante Webblog Award“?Websites and blogs of your choice for their designs that are especially noteworthy.

Here are the Award Rules:

1. The winner can take the logo

2. Place a link to the person that send you the award

3. Give the Award to at least 7 other Scrapbooking-Blogs, which by its currency,the issues of choice and for their designs are especially noteworthy

4. Put a link to these sites on your Blog.

5. Write a comment on their Blogs that they’ve won an Award

OK so Lisa nominated a whole lot of girls who's blogs I adore....so I'm going with

ALL these girls are linked on the side ->

1. Julie Heard - Hello!!!! her work is amazing!!!!! Eyecandy and inpiration for any scrapper!Always so many well designed and created LOs and not to mention those CUTE kiddos of hers!

2. Malin - OMG..L..talk about TALENT!!! This girl rocks my world with her BEAUTIFUL LOs. She has an amazing eye for colour, pattern and design! Just amazing!

3. Maz - gotta love thos bright and funky LOs...so much fun, joy and texture in her LOs while still balancing the whole white space factor! Like me she LOVES to cluster.... go Maz!

4. Mel Connell - you should really see her work in real life! I get to paw over it at my LSS Scraptivate! I honestly don't know anyone one else with her style...it's funky, fun, busy but clean, she can use all sorts of combinations and they just "work"....LOVE HER WORK!

5.Belinda - stunning photos, clean, minimal LOs that speak volumes! Always a gorgeous insight into her sweet family life too!

6. Melissa Heather - sweet photos, gorgeous designs and use of PPs...this girl not only rocks scrapping she is a wonderful friend too!

7. Ali M.- Mia's mummy - Love the way she scraps, love the little insights into her delicious cooking and lovely family! Always open and honest! I draw so many similarities - both of us with lil girls and now both prego! LOVE her blog!

More LOs under construction!!!

Time flies...

2008-07-01T17:01:00.000-07:00

We have been wishing for warmer weather and dry days....I HATE winter!!! But it's all good really! Busy and having fun as usual -

work...loving the kindy - the kids are sooooo cute! Preparing for Book Week early next term in the Library.
Took Poppy to toddler time at the local Library for the first time OMG...How great is the session. Three stories and craft activity - she LOVED it! So cute!

Gym class - our regular teacher is leaving...Poppy adored her but I'm sure the new lady will be just as lovely!

Poppy's language development is just blooming - she is soooooo verbal and the expression and theatrics are so funny to see! Such a social butterfly!

Swimming lessons - our Saturday morning regular...she is becoming more independent!

We had the interview for the school we were hoping to get Poppy into and she was so well behaved and chatty with the principal. I'm so excited to say that they have already sent out the letter of offer and just seeing the school again has reinforced our "good feeling" about the place. We really are thrilled...she doesn't start until 2010 though!
Have also applied for her to do one day a week next year in "Pre kindy"...We have found a school that is offering it here and are yet to see if she gets in. I got teary just reading the parent information pamphlet...it all seems so 'big girl"... and to me she is just my bubba!LOL!Makes me nervous as she has never been in the care of any one but our family but I know she will love it!

Visited my Ob. on Monday...he told me I have to watch my weight!!!!!!!!!!!!!Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!I'm only half way and nearly the weight I was at full term with Poppy! PMSL!!!!!!But my start weight was heavier this time!!! I'll be off to weight watchers after this one!!!ekkkkkkkkkkk. Other than that it's all good and we picked my delivery date! I can't wait!

I have been offered some photography work....a bit nervous but will update on that when it's all done!

A touch of scrapping...

Calendar Girls Competition for Scrap World...
Our Calendar Girls competition that we started this year had to be postponed for a while with all the site problems, however we are still going to run it but we will do so through the DT Blog!!
Layouts can be sent to Mel at: calendar.girls@hotmail.com

And my gorgeous girl......

How could you resist this lil face???

It's pink...

2008-06-22T17:18:00.000-07:00

Poppy is sitting at my feet building with her duplo blocks...

Me - "What colour is that one?"

P - "it's pink"

Me - " No hun, that one is red"

P - "oh red"

Me "what colour is that one?"

P - "it's pink"

Me - "no hun, that one is blue"

P - "oh blue"

Me - "what colour is that one?

P - "it's pink"......

.....it's endless...and there is not one pink block in sight.....*sigh* LOL!

She does own a whole lot of pink stuff so I guess the world does look quite pink to her!

I have some mojo going on and got 3 LOs done over the weekend.And this is my final LO for the Scraploot challenge - I can't be considered for the DT as they want an exclusive team - So I am out of the running....but it was fun to play along! For this week we had to 'Jack' a LO...harder than I thought!...This one was based on a LO by Sheree...I "heart" this photo of Poppy! And 2 for the the lovely Di -she has a new bub, the very gorgeous "Zak"...so a few of us are helping her make a start on his album...here are two that I have done for her!

Oh and we are a bit excited as we got tickets with some friends to go and see the Playschool show in September...and also Justine Clarke - remember her as Roo on home and away in the late 80s? Her kids songs are so much fun...awwww Poppy's first concerts!

The 19 week scan went well on Thursday - bub is the right size, all the organs look good, strong heart and very bloody active - the pics are quite blury as he/she wouldn't stop wiggling about!

I will post some pics in later. I have to go back for a scan at 32 weeks as they are concerned I have a low placenta - shouldn't really be a problem as I have to have a c-section but my Ob. needs to know exactly where it is or it could be a problem if I went into early labour! So it' all good! We didn't find out the gender although I was dying to know - what do you think I'm having ?

Leave me your choice in the comments section...LOL

Well off to get ready for Mother's group...have a great week!

Wet weather...

2008-06-16T03:21:00.000-07:00

Hmmmmmmm I know we need the rain but geez...I hate wet weather - especially with an energetic toddler. We prefer to go to the park or play in the backyard! At least we had mother's group this morning and she ran riot inside with her favourite partner in crime a gorgeous boy called Nate. They get pretty wild together but have a ball! Also oooohhhed and ahhhhhhhed over a precious new bub called Violet...such a pretty name for such a sweet lil girl!**cluck, cluck**

Some more LOs to share...

This one is for SCRAPTIVATE.... using the delish new Making Memories pps. They are having a HUGE stocktake sale with 20% off storewide...so I suggest you get on into the shop...such an inspirational store, overflowing with wonderful designs and products!!!!

I caught up with some of the gorgeous girls from the SM forum last Friday for a crop last Friday as Scraptivate and of course I kinda just ate and talked all night but I did get the best part of this LO done for Scraploot challenge # 5 - colour combo of orange, blue, white, black and pink!

I was really happy with the LO except for the paint...bit dark maybe? bit naff? LOL!

And this one was just for me...
The I've had the PP for AGES just waiting for the right photos... Miss P scrapping away!

And a quick pic of Miss P on her bike heading off to the park for a play.... Very colour co ordinated there!!LOL! A least she is a little more willing to look at the camera these days!

We are currently looking for a 3 year old kindy placing for Poppy next year as the school she will going to only starts at 4 year old kindy. Because 3 year old kindy is not subsidised by the govt. it seems to cost an arm and a leg for two mornings a week!! Hmmm...hopefully we'll find something in the next couple of weeks!

I have my 19 week scan on Thursday...very excited to see the bub again! He/she is very active and I have been feeling those little kicks for a couple of weeks now! Can't believe I am nearly half way!

My creative girl...

2008-06-08T00:25:00.000-07:00

Awwwww occasionally she will sit still! LOL! Tony is a footy most of today(Sunday) so Miss P and I decided to do a little creating! She quite likes sticking and glueing - But SHE has to hold the glue stick - such a stuborn lil chook! We had fun though!

I have done one more LO for the Scraploot challenge #4 - Multiple pics, rub ons, punches and hand cutting patterns...Here is what I came up with...Poppy on the bouncy castle in Freo last week. She LOVES LOVES LOVES the bouncy castle - talked about it for DAYS!

Got another LO on the go for Scraptivate, using some delish MM papers and I'm heading over to the shop on Friday night to meet up with some local girls for a crop. If you are a local and want to come along there are still a few places - just ring the shop!

All is great here and my belly is ever expanding - although I generally hate being in photos I have decided to take a photo each month to show the growing process! LOL! So here is week 16 - 4 months...I was this size at 28 weeks with Poppy - so yep I feel HUGE! But bub is growing so that the main thing. I had two dreams last night that it was a boy????? Hmmmmmm what's that all about!?

Have a great week! I'm planning on scrapping - the mojo is back!!! YAY!

Freo fun....

2008-06-05T01:01:00.000-07:00

Well it was a long weekend here this week....so on Monday we headed down to Fremantle for the morning. There is always a great atmosphere and lots to do and look at! We love to go and check out the markets, the cafes, the shops and the BEST fish and chips in Perth @ Cicerellos! They have these HUGE fishtanks in the cafe - Poppy was very intrigued with the sealife. It overlooks the boats and is just great for families!

Here's Poppy lovin' the chippies...

Riding the merry-go-round in the park...loving every minute!

Remember the character - Bazil Brush???

I LOVE this photo....my two favourite people...

Not much else happening....work and a touch of scrapping - although not as much as I would like. I have loads of ideas, loads of product but either no time or too tired to get into it!

Challenge #3 for Scraploot -colouring in, no cardstock, buttons, felt...I scrapped these summer photos of Poppy and her cousin Crawford...these are some of my all time favourite photos! Lil monkey's under the sprinkler!

Gym class...

2008-05-23T16:00:00.000-07:00

No no...not me LOL! Poppy - she had her first "gym" class yesterday! I have been meaning to take her for about 6 months now and have finally found the time to go! She is such and energetic child (she doesn't get it from me!) so she really needs and enjoys "busy and active" activities!

I think she is too little for the whole "dancing" scene yet - I know it can get competitive and costly so I'm not that keen just yet. So we went to a gym class for toddlers and my god...SHE LOVED IT! They start with stretches and warm ups, music and exercises then then they all follow a circuit, then you can do your own thing and the instructor(who is just lovely) comes around showing different basic skills like tumbles and rolling! Very casual and very fun! I'm so happy we went. And it's great timing with the winter weather setting in! The best thing is you are not "locked" into a term - you just turn up and pay as you go! I will take my camera next time - didn't want to look like a maniac on the first day!

Here is round #2 challenge for Scraploot DT challenge/comp. - a sketch, some stamping, hand drawing and you had to make your own embellishment - I made the "button tree" - the trunk was part of a pizza box - hand drawn, cut and inked. I LOVE it!LOL!

..and a CJ entry for the wonderful Donna J...."confessions" theme - what weird and wonderful habits we have!
Hope you have a great weekend - I think I'll rest up a little, cook up some veggie and barley soup in the slow cooker and hopefully fit in a little scrapping!

What are you up to?

Hmmmmm...

2008-05-20T01:17:00.000-07:00

Well nothing too exciting to report...all is great here....in between work, relief teaching, mother's group, swimming lessons...time is just flying by and somewhere in between all that I am starting to make final decisions about the details of the renovations that we are starting in August(oh only about a YEAR behind the schedual!!). I'm hoping to keep it a really minimal and simple interior and then add the colour and life with retro and antique pieces! I will be sooo excited just to have cupboards and storage(oh and a room for the new addition)...that's my main goal. Everything will basically be white - continuation of our jarrah floor boards in the main family room and then dark mocha coloured large tiles for the floor of the bathroom, laundry and toilet, a neutral carpet for the kids rooms. Very simple really and I can't wait!(remind me of this positiveness when I am 7 months pregnant and the back half of my house has been demolished!!!)

Also put this bright beauty on Layby this week....couldn't help myself....and it was a bargain! Don't really have to buy anything else - except clothes if it's a boy...so why not I say!

Here is lil scrapping.... monthly LO comp @ Scraploot... based on a sketch.
I so wish I was one of those scrapper/bloggers who rolls out 4-6 LOs to share each week - like Nic, Lisa or Julie H......but alas - no LOL!!!! Just one for now

BTW I am LOVING my new slow cooker - how very domesticated of me!LOL!

HUGE congrats to Lisa AKA Scrapwitch - who won the big comp over at Embellished! It' s wonderful when true talent is recognised!!! YAY!!!

Have a great week!

Mothers.....

2008-05-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

Well Mother's day was lovely! I was spoilt - I got a beautiful card, a sleep in, a slow cooker(which I asked for -LOL) and some pink uggboots for around the house, from Dh and Miss P. A gorgeous card from my SIL - which actually bought me to tears...some turkish delight(yummo!) and some fabulous Clarins face cream from MIL....SPOILT! Of course the best gift is this precious life growing inside me!
My mum is getting a soft dressing gown from us!We rang her on the day. She really is a wonderful lady!
We had a BBQ brunch at MIL's with all the family - absolutely delish...Poppy kept the troops entertained with her antics! And my MIL also cooked up an extra evening meal for us so I didn't have to cook dinner - how lovely is that!

Finally feeling alot better...but busy doing so extra relief teaching while I still can! Must say i really love the classes I am working with this year!

Here is a LO I have done for Loz...this is her gorgeous new bubba, Chloe...isn't she beautiful!!
Hopefully I'll have more to share soon!

Poppy is unsure about the whole new baby business..she keeps looking under and down my top saying "Mumma...where's the baby? Where's the baby?"...she is such a cack!

Thanks for all the kind comments and well wishes on our special news....it really made my week!

A good reason...

2008-05-04T23:16:00.000-07:00

Well there is good reason why I have been far too exhausted to be creative, a good reason why I have hardly commented on friends' blogs, a good reason why I fall asleep at 9pm, a good reason why I have been sooooo sick(couldn't take antibiotics), a good reason why I am getting fatter by the day!!!

And here it is....

I am 12 weeks pregnant!! And we a absolutely thrilled! Everything looks perfect and this little one should make an appearance in November. My due date is the 13th - just 4 day's before Poppy's birthday but I looks like I will have to have a c-section so somewhere around two weeks earlier than that!
I don't care if it is a boy or a girl - just relieved that it's not twins -LOL . I'm so much bigger this time I seriously thought there might be two but luckily just one - I guess I'm just fat!
Poppy doesn't really understand yet but I'm sure she will as it becomes more obvious!
How exciting!!!

Tones of blue....

2008-04-21T03:02:00.000-07:00

We went to Gero last week - I had the flu and a horrid head cold the whole week - so it was good to be "looked after" by mum and dad. We did have some fun though, cooking gingerbread men - so cute and fun! And I got to catch up, very quickly, with Donna J - what a wonderful and warm woman she is! And could I just 'steal' her little munchkin Toby (Milly too - but hey, I already have one of them!) He is such a HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY little man!!

Poppy and Milly...lil cuties!

This week's challenge for Gallery 12 was 'blue". Looking around it's amazing how much we are surrounded by this colour!! Pop over and vote for your favourite photo!!

Here are some of my pics that didn't go to gallery!

Love that pigeon on top!

Good ol' country pub ( couldn't get a good shot from the street!)
History with a splash of paint!

I have more photos and some scrapping that I will post later - unfortunately I have been up since 4am - Gastro - ewwwwwwww vomitting for about 5 hours! Not nice at all - thank god it wasn't Poppy. I hope she doesn't get it! I can't remember being this ill for a long time!

I'm sure I'll be fine tomorrow - and I'm itching to get to the scrapdesk as I have new goodies from SCRAPTIVATE, including the new Sassafrass Lass - certainly my favourite paper in a long time! Also new BG, New Heidi Swapp(loving the houndstooth pp)....crackle paint, god the list goes on!!!

What's on your desk at the moment?

Still around....

2008-04-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

Well it seems I start every entry with how busy I have been.......still so very true .....but hey that's life and it's all good!

We had a ball in Geraldton for Easter - Poppy created/painted her own easter basket with her cousins(such a big girl now) and had fun with the egg hunt. Although, she had no idea and once she found one egg she just wanted to sit and eat that one...the other kids encouraged her to find more. She seriously adores her cousins.

Then back home, back to routines and work. We had some fun playdates and a first birthday party. Lots of fun. Poppy's talking and funny antics are increasing everyday...she constantly has us in fits of laughter!

I must say my creating has been limited due to time & tiredness. My mojo is still there - just the body is not willing!LOL!

We are heading back up to see my family again next week and I'm very excited as I will get to catch up with the very talented and fun Donna J and her CUTE kids Milly and Toby! Can't wait!

Only have a few things to share, the rest are elsewhere!*wink*

Master's challenge in the recent issue of SM...

A LO for this month's Calendar Girls Comp over at Scrapworld!!!!

Kitted out........

2008-03-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of choosing some delicious products for a kit at Scrapworld. It's overflowing with SEI paper - lots of them are textured and embossed, plus some Jenni Bowlin, Heidi Swapp,chippy, diecuts, buttons....it is one big kit and priced with 20% off! I have created 3 LOs with it and still have enough left to create at least another two! If you like the look of it check out Scrapworld....I think there are only 7 left!

This one is for Monica AKA Gizmo - it's her beautiful dd Emily - so I have left the journalling spot blank for her to fill in!

Not long till Easter - Yay! A good excuse to catch up with family, eat too much and spoil the kids! can't wait! We are heading up to see my family in the country! Poppy adores seeing her "big" cousins!

laugh........

2008-03-15T03:09:00.000-07:00

A LO for the best Scrap shop in Perth - Scraptivate - you know you HAVE to check them out. The store is overflowing with amazing work and delish product. (online aswell)!Poppy had a ball at the playgroup Easter party this week...the Easter fairy handed out eggs... and I spent the ENTIRE time running around after Miss P as she is a "runner" and it was an unfenced park.....I was buggered after it but I guess I got my daily exercise!LOL!

There is a fun CC going on over at Scrapworld this weekend and you have until Good Friday to finish the challenges! And let me tell you - Mel the boss lady is so generous with prizes....go on give it a go!

I did the OTP challenge - and Easter basket - would have loved to painted the basket to make it look a little more shabby chic but I ran out of time...it was a fun project and I'm sure Poppy will like it. We are having "Easter" with Dh's family tomorrow as we are going away next weekend.

Hope you all have a fun Easter planned!

Gotta LOVE the Collections chippy bird and some metalic paint!

Still here......

2008-03-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

Life is hectic and busy but fun - just a little short of time LOL! Have been working, extra relief days, scrapping, playing with Poppy, catching up with friends, practising my photography, the list goes on! I am going to have to slow down and step back a bit I think....just a bit TOO much going on. But hey, you get that!

Poppy is growing up way too fast - such a big girl now - talking really well, counting, singing, maddly obsessed with the Wiggles LOL. She is such fun, pure delight!

A recent LO...

I seem to be getting a much better handle on the manual settings of my camera which is exciting. Next step - photoshop...looking into short courses.

Some fun photos of a day by the beach! I'll be back soon with more!

Last Week's Gallery 12 Challenge - "WOOD"

Is it really...

2008-02-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

Is it really the end of Feb already? My god where does the time go? Thanks girls for letting me know you drop by. I guess I thought if no one was really reading what was the point of trying to fit blogging into my already busy days. IYKWIM. Today I have been tagged by the gorgeous Lisa...what a fabulous & inspirational friend! Thanks hun!

Lisa tagged alot of the girls I would have tagged(Donna, Maz, AM, Binrow, Louise, Pam, Chelle....) so I'm adding to that list with...

LissyK - Mel Connell - she is one of my favourite scrappers

Malin - fun and funky always!

Melissa Heather - gorgeous scrapper & gorgeous friend.

Belinda - for gorgeous girly, eye candy LOs! And a recent SM cover - go girl!

Julie Heard - OMG inspiration central!

Ali (Mia'smummy) - LO her fun and delicious LOs featuring the gorgeous Miss M.

I'll be back with some LOs later. My computer has been down for a couple of days. I've just had it debugged and wiped clean so I need to reload my programs and photos! Off now to take some photos and tomorrow I have a session with a 38 week pregnant lady...can't wait!

Hope you are having a fabulous week!

Bugger.........

2008-02-19T04:48:00.000-08:00

I was messing about with the settings for my blog and I wiped out my side links and my counter!!!! ARRRRRGGGGGHHHHHH! Oh well I'll have to redo it!

Life is good....hectic but good! Enjoying the photography course. I have lots to learn and the darkroom is fun but I'm still more of a digital girl I think! So it's Tafe, work, hanging out with the family. Toddler Week at Scitech so I'm taking Poppy one morning. I'm sure she will love all the fun equipment. Trying to toilet train her but it's hard when we are out and about so often....we'll see!

Taught a class at SCRAPTIVATE on the weekend - some gorgeous ladies came along....we did this Valentines/love double LO...

Scrapping for Scrapworld - revisiting older line - Basic Grey Blush....

A bright CJ entry for Scrapwitche's Journal....

Hope you are having a fabulous week. I sometimes wonder if anyone is reading this? Lurkers perhaps? To those who comment - thanks....it means alot! XX

PHEW.....

2008-02-06T22:00:00.000-08:00

Gosh it has been busy the past week....I started my photography course and my god TAFE is fantastic. It's so much more relaxed than university, the lecturers are so cruisy and they really want to help you out to make it throught the course. We are doing all film and dark room work this semester...they start with film as it is less forgiving than digital...we really have to THINK about each and every shot. The darkroom was awesome and they have a massive studio..too exciting!LOL!

I also started work and had a great time with the new little Kindy kids and am working my way around teaching the little Year Ones and Preprimary kids in the Library! LOVE IT!

Here are two LOs for SCRAPTIVATE... I ducked into the shop this morning and WOW...so many great products and lots of inspiration...if you are a Perth local pop in....if not a local check out the online shopping - especially if you are looking for those cute chipboard Owls!

On a roll....

2008-02-03T23:10:00.000-08:00

Well I just seem to be scrapping up a storm....thank god as I have alot of DT work and a Master's challenges to get through. I'm really enjoying it all at the moment...not stressing as much. Maybe it was the three weeks away, a stack of new pics and tonnes of product! LOL!

THE WINNER OF THE CHIPPY OWLS IS HETTY...I did draw it out of a hat but not I don't have a photo LOL! So Hetty if you could email me your addy that would be fantastic!

There is an AWESOME comptition going on at Scrapworld this year - "Calendar Girls"
http://www.scrapworld.com.au/catalog/ check out the forum for all the details...you have until the 15th to get your LO in for January! Newbies - WELCOMED! Here is my sample...

Another fun lil thing I have been working on is this cute little mixed media collage canvas...I think I'll add some spotty ribbon and it can be a door hanger like "poppy's room"...might make some more up or on order...not sure if I could be bothered with an ETSY store but I do love all the fun stuff there!Tonight I have my very first class at TAFE...I have signed up for a photography course. I'm so excited as I really hope one day to have a small photography business. It's my dream and I'm taking steps towards it which is awesome! It's two nights a week. I have already got some informal family photo shoots booked but I'm after a few newborns to photograph! LOL!

School starts tomorrow and I'm working in the Kindy...I can't wait! I love the teachers, the TAs and the delish 4 year olds! Then Library teaching on Wednesdays.

Yep I'm flat out but I'm loving it!

What a hoot....

2008-01-25T15:13:00.000-08:00

Here's a look at a cute lil owl canvas I have been working on for a March class at scraptivate. Those "Collection" chipboard owls are soooo cute. The owner and designer of the collections is a wonderful Perth lady - Julie. She is so clever and always comes up with awesome products.

Would you like a RAK sent to you including a mini canvas and some raw owls to play with? I'll add some other fun and funky items too...leave me some love and we will randomly pick a winner later this week!

Have a fabulous weekend....HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY!

Home again...

2008-01-20T02:51:00.000-08:00

Well we are back home....Poppy had such a ball playing with her cousins! So cute to watch them all interact! She followed the boys around non stop! And the big girls were gorgeous with her!

Lots of scrapping to catch up on and before we know it it will be time for school. I'm excited about my teaching this year and have a great job for the year - Kindy and Junior Primary Library teacher...can't wait!

Have a couple of LOs and some summer fun photos to share....

Summer fun...

2008-01-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

****Looking for a fun monthly competition this new year? Head over to scrap world and check out the NEW completition - CALENDAR GIRLS...all details in the forum. Looks to be a fun way to record the year!****

Well still no scrapping to share as we are away for at least another week....that said my gorgeous nieces are keen to alter some diaries so we might go hunt down some supplies tomorrow! We have been hanging out, swimming, relaxing, visited the local markets....found some vintage goodies!

The challenge at Gallery 12 this week is "backyard"....here are some snaps from my sister's backyard...I have another series of shots to pick from too...

What's in your back yard???

Happy New Year!!!!

2008-01-01T22:43:00.000-08:00

Well here we are with a NEW YEAR! I can't believe it! We had a great New Year's eve with my sister, brother, a few friends, some champers and tequilla (don't ask!). The kids a had a ball with sparklers and glow sticks - got some fab pics!

So I am in the country visiting my family and helping out my sister with her kids as they have a new business. I only have limited net access and have no photos loaded to share yet....

BUT there is a lot of fun ventures coming up for me this year so....

Please have a peek at this fab. photo challenge blog....check in each week and vote for your favourite photo...

http://thedigichallenge.blogspot.com/

Twelve Photographers. One photo, every week of the year. A 52 week photo challenge where you, the viewer are asked to leave your vote for the best weekly photo in the comments section of each post. We're relying on your votes to see who the annual winner will be. Just mention the number that goes with your favourite photo. It's that easy!

Do you have any new year resolutions? I'm not big on the whole resolution thing but I definately think it is always good to reflect and aim for new goals....but not only in Janurary!

Somethings for me...
1. Photography course
2. Think of fun ideas for my Scraptivate classes
3. Stress less - create more
4. Get a little healthier
5. Save - use my money more efficiently
6. Catch up with my friends more often
7. Renovate our home without having a total breakdown
8. Enjoy the little things!

What are you aiming for in 2008??? Hope you reach for you dreams, enjoy the journey, laugh along the way!