Monica's Brady Bunch

Up, Up.....and away!!

2012-01-29T17:56:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

I hope you are all having a lovely weekend.

We have spent most of the weekend indoors, it is so wet

and miserable out there. A number of roads around us

are flooded and we haven't ventured out too

far from home.

I had to get my copic markers out last night - it has

been way too long since I had a play with them.

I immediately went over to Magnolia Down Under challenges and I'm

so glad I did because as it turns out, this week it's

all about Edwin!!

I have to confess, i tend to neglect Edwin a lot. Tilda

features in most of my cards so I was pleased

to make this card starring my fav little boy ;0)

Using Superhero Edwin..........................

I had a bit of fun with this one while still keeping

a simple design.

Here's a close up.................

He is just the cutest in his Superhero costume!

My boys have already asked for a card

featuring him for their birthdays ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Hugs

xoxo

Sneaky time...

2012-01-28T07:58:00.000+10:00

I have gone flowers crazy!!

Here is a preview of some I have been making..............

To read more go here

There's a special announcement also as well

as a Giveaway!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hugs

xoxo

I'm back!!

2012-01-23T20:31:00.000+10:00

Finally!!

Back online.................I have had some major computer issues

the last couple of weeks and just plain bad luck.

It's good to finally be able to get back online. So, if I

haven't been around visiting your blogs - I apologize, I've had

limited access to the net - and it feels like I have been

way for years!

Firstly, it was the first day of school today and this little Miss

went off for the very first time..................

She was a little nervous while we

dropped the boys off and unpacked book lists but

once we got to her classrooms she was all smiles

and happy to stay with her classmates.

To me, she is way too little. She won't be 5 until May and

I am having a hard time letting go of her.

So, it's just Sophie and I from now on.

Like I was saying, I have had the worst luck lately.

First my camera was stolen, then my laptop

stopped working, our other laptop crashed and I haven't been

able able to retrieve any photos ...no worries right? They are

backed up on the external hard drive.....which would be

useful if that didn't stop working. So now, it is getting

repaired along with my laptop and I am hoping

that I get everything back. 5 years worth of photos, all my

Itunes, it's just a nightmare!!

\Then the icing on the cake.....................a week before I was

to start my new job, they inform me that they no longer have hours

available for me. Really, I must have broken a mirror or something

everything is just going wrong.

I had to give up Sophie's day care spot, which I was not happy

with since we have been on the waiting list since March last year.

So, what's a girl to do?? I'll be having a couple more

monthly sales at Apple Tree Lane before moving

to a more permanent location ;0) I will have more details on that soon.

There is a monthly challenge happening over at Scrapbookit

This one is a doozy, set by mel the challenge is

"Looking Forward, Looking Back" you must use these

words in your layout. The layout must be

* A non traditional shape

* Must use buttons, ribbon + one other embellishment.

For the card challenge

* Must be a non traditional shape also

* Must use paint, 2 patterned papers and masking tape.

You will have to go here to check out my example

as well as the other DT gals.....yeah, don't ask lol!

But, here is another layout I did

for Jo using the gorgeous Lil Primrose

collection by Kaisercraft.

You can find it right now at Scrapbookit!

Also, I wanted to play along at Show Us Your Stuff this month

and had a go at the sketch challenge.

I altered it... a lot lol!

My handmade item is this gorgeous Zippy flower

by Burdy's embellishments . Isn't it gorgeous??

Well, thanks for sticking around and reading

this very long winded post!

Hopefully I 've had my run of bad luck, I will

have to keep thinking happy thoughts from now on ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Sharing...

2012-01-08T14:36:00.000+10:00

Hey everyone!

Boy is it hot here today, not sure what the temperature is but

the kids have been keeping cool in the water...at least 3 of them have.

Emily is sick this weekend - they have taken turns

being sick and she is miserable. It doesn't help that

today is a scorcher ;0(

So there was a lot of mixed reviews about the movie

The Time Traveler's Wife...after I finished the book, of course

I had to go out and watch the movie......... I was

a bit disappointed the movie just skimmed over this story and I

couldn't believe they left Kimy out....a main character!!

I'll have to watch it again without a crucial eye - I might enjoy it more!

So, I realised I hadn't shared my Master's entries for last year.

This was my 3rd time entering the competition and

the second year I received an Honourable Mention. I found this

criteria quite challenging - I don't do double layouts as a rule, mainly scrap

with one photo and no OTP??? I was a tad disappointed there

was no OTP last year........maybe I was the only one??!?

Here is my layout with large photo. Featuring Miss Sophie...........

I cut up some elements from a Little Golden Book to use in this layout

to help the story of my little skinny, scrawny girl ;0)

Next, the sketch..................

This one had me running for the hills. I really had a hard time with it.

I ended up shifting the sketch over and adding a border which

I regretted straight away......................

A close up, love this little acrylic sun :0)

Now the double layout using a colour combo.

I think it ended up looking a bit drab.......................

and some embellies..................

There you go....it wasn't third time lucky for me.

I was so impressed with the quality of the work in the magazine.

I really loved seeing so many newbies in there too. I think if I have another

go I'll have to step up my game....by a lot!

Off to cool down!!

Thanks for dropping by.

xoxo

A Bloggy morning!!

2012-01-04T07:59:00.000+10:00

Good morning!!

I have had a very busy morning blogging!!

One of the good things about having hubby home is that I

can jump online without feeling guilty and can take my

time browsing and updating....I think I have reached

my limit but so I will have to pop in and leave

some love on your blogs tonight ;0)

The year has started off pretty well, we have had a quite

school holidays this year, the kids are all taking turns being sick

which has slowed us down a little. We had a trip to the

library yesterday and came home with bags full

of books. Speaking of books, I can't put this book down.................

It was recommended by a friend a while ago now and

I'm only just reading it......It's made to my top 10

list and I haven't quite finished it!!

Such a beautiful story, thanks Cherie ;0)

I've managed to get scrapping as well which is a bit

hard after having some time off. I scrapped a Christmas layout

using gorgeous Kaisercraft papers - I have a weakness

for Kaisercraft! They can be found at Scrapbookit and while

you are there, make sure you check out the stamp shop

you will be pleasantly surprised ;0)

Here is a little sneak peek at some of the embellies

that will be available in the "Back To School" kit on sale

the first week of February at Apple Tree Lane

The sunburst and measuring tape will be available as well as other

goodies in this budget kit. I'm looking at getting some of those little

clock faces for future kits and as you can see they co-ordinate really well

with that gorgeous Purple Pumpkin button - love my PP;0)

Well thanks for dropping by everyone!

I think hubby has had enough of chasing Sophie

around already...she's a little rascal that one lol!

Have a great day.

xoxo

Get Picky Challenge

2011-12-31T08:27:00.000+10:00

Good morning all!!

Wow - it's the final day of 2011 and I for one

am pretty happy to say goodbye to this year.

We've had a lot of lows this year so it will be great

to have a fresh start...............

It's been a little hard to scrap over the Christmas period.

I'm going to have to push myself to get

back up and running.

I was lucky enough to win the inspiration challenge over at

Get Picky which means, I get to be a Guest DT for a month!!

Hooray, I'm pretty happy about that and the first challenge

is fantastic...............

New Year’s Challenge!

Our challenge this month is to think about what we might resolve to do in the coming New Year. Your multi-photo layout can share whatever aspect you might like to focus on for the coming new year. It might be your New year’s resolutions, a bucket list, things to do, place you’d like to go, ideas for your life – family.....Share your thoughts, hopes and dreams in whichever way you please.. we can’t wait to see your creations.
Here is a little poem that may inspire you to think of what you'd like your coming year to be.
From all of us here at Get Picky, we hope your year is filled with many of the gorgeous sentiments written below and we look forward to sharing in more of your beautiful creations.
xxx

May you find serenity and tranquility in a world
You may not always understand.

May the pain you have known and conflict you have experienced
Give you the strength to walk through life
Facing each new situation with courage and optimism.

Always know that there are those whose love and understanding
Will always be there, even when you feel most alone.

May you discover enough goodness in others
To believe in a world of peace.

May a kind word, a reassuring touch, a warm smile be yours
Every day of your life,
And may you give these gifts as well as receive them.

Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending.

Teach love to those who know hate,
And let that love embrace you as you go into the world.

May the teaching of those you admire become part of you,
So that you may call upon them.
Remember, those whose lives you have touched
And who have touched yours are always a part of you,
Even if the encounters were less than you would have wished.
It is the content of the encounter that is more important than it's form.

May you not become too concerned with material matters,
But instead place immeasurable value on the goodness in your heart.

Find time in each day to see the beauty and love in the world around you.

Realize that each person has limitless abilities,
But each of us is different in our own way.
What you may feel you lack in one regard
May be more than compensated for in another.
What you feel you lack in the present
May become one of your strengths in the future.

May you see your future as one filled with promise and possibility.
Learn to view everything as a worthwhile experience.

May you find enough inner strength to determine your own worth by yourself,
And not be dependent on another's judgement of your accomplishments.

May you always feel loved.
--- Copyright © 1987 Sandra Sturtz Hauss

and here is my example...................

My main goal for next year is to finish round 1 of our home

renovations. We had planned to do it all in one go but

decided to do it in stages after waiting around for builders lol!

Michael is doing this small section himself and since he is not a builder it's

taking him a while longer, we have proper walls up now, all the

wiring is done, Michael put in a beautiful picture window

and he is now in the midst of plastering so we are just a paint flick and

carpet away from completing...............then round 2 lol!

I know the picture is a little dodgy.....I had my camera

stolen sometime over Christmas so I had to use hubby's IPhone. The only camera

we have in the house now. I'm not having much luck

getting $$ back from insurance either - certainly not enough

to replace it so I might have to go back to a point and shoot

for a while....sob...sob..... I was pretty upset but then I woke up on Boxing

day to the news of Matt Golinski's family and I thought.......

It's just a camera....................

It's been a shocking year for tragedies here in Queensland.

Here's hoping the New Year brings more good news than bad.

To all my family, friends and everyone else who reads

this little blog, wishing you all a

Happy and safe New Year!!

See you in 2012

Monica

xoxo

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T11:55:00.000+10:00

To all my family and

scrappy friends, I wish you all a

very Merry Christmas!!

I hope you all have a wonderful day!

xoxo

Some exciting news!!

2011-12-21T14:37:00.000+10:00

Hello my scrappy friends!

The last week has been full on over here...and I was on a roll too1

So far the scrapping has been pretty non existent.

With the kids being at home and Michael working 24/7 it has

been long days keeping them entertained and early nights

trying to catch some hours sleep, but a certain little

baby has decided that sleep is not on.

I got this layout done last night using the sweet

All Things Nice kit from my little store Apple Tree Lane .

A close up of a felt tree and a glass cabochon.

I really love these sweet vintage images, they are so cute.

Some gorgeous Prima flowers in there too............

and a close up of a weave Sunburst.......................

So I have some exciting news!!

First I was so lucky to be chosen as the inspiration challenge winner

for December over at Get Picky . I have to admit

that multi photo layouts are a real challenge for me, so this is

a really exciting win. I'll also get to be a Guest DT

for next month!! So exciting!!!

And.....I was lucky enough to receive an Honourable mention

in the Scrapbooking Memories Masters magazine

for my Hidden Journaling layout!!

So stoked about this, I was really disappointed when I didn't

get the chance to post my finished entry last year. I made

it in time this year and I'm happy to get a little mention in there!

The mag looks fab - we have so many amazing scrappers here

in Australia!!

Are you all ready for Santa's visit?

Amazingly - I am!!

I have never been so organized. All the presents are wrapped,

the stocking are hung. All I need is some

Christmas shots of the kids ( without bribing them ) and

I'm done !!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

A couple of challenges...........

2011-12-11T10:13:00.000+10:00

I can't believe it..............I'm actually getting some

challenges done this month!

I always have this long list of all the challenges I want

to do but I am lucky if I get one done!

Not this time!!

I'm playing along at Get Picky this month where

the challenge is to tell a story and of course, to scrap

more than one photo. I scrapped this layout of Sophie and told the story

of the drama we had when we trying to work it all out

at the beginning. She had a tough time with her feeding, my

breast milk wasn't nourishing her and she rejected

formula at first.....it was a long battle but we finally got there.

It breaks my heart to see her so skinny and scrawny

but look at her now!

and a close up of the embellies...........................

I'm also playing along at Bird is the word where the word is Time.

I've included it as the title and also as part

of the journaling.

I've gone for a 6x12 inch layout this time for something different.

and a close up.................

I've used an Alice glass cabochon, I can feel an

Alice kit coming on................

I hope you are all enjoying your weekend!

The sun is shining here today so Michael has taken the kids

out to enjoy the beautiful day.

Gives me time to get my Christmas list sorted....I can't believe

there is only two weeks until Christmas!

I'm so not ready.................

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

December Inspiration

2011-12-09T19:28:00.000+10:00

Hooray!!

That's it - the school year is finally over!!

You have no idea how much I have been looking forward to

having the kids at home - I might be eating

my words in a few weeks - but for now I am content to

not rush around like a mad person every single

morning!!!!!!!!

All of a sudden, I feel like I have time for everything!

Like getting some challenges done.............will be having a scrappy

night tonight since I'm home alone.

Have you checked out Scrapbookit December challenge yet?

1. Photo 5x7";

2. Clock/s in any form;

3. Cogs;

4. A musical element;

5. Use of either the title or lyrics from this song.

I went into a bit of a panic when I realized

I had no cogs of any sort - which is unusual for me!

After a much thorough search through my stash I found some old

patterned paper with cogs on it - and some other goodies!

Here is my layout..............

and a close up........................

If you're a card maker you can have a play along too!

The criteria for the card challenge is

1. Use your favourite song lyrics
2. Include some sewing
3. Brads
4. Musical element

I used song lyrics from the song

"Oh Hark!" by Lisa Mitchell...I love this girl!

Her music always makes me feel happy :0)

I am a little addicted to my retro flower punch - do you remember

this one? I think it may have been a staple in all

scrappy stashes a few years ago !

I used it to make a little flower power!

My sewing element is pretty dismal - I know!

I think I will make that my challenge for the New Year.

Blow the dust of my sewing machine and actually use it!!

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Have a great weekend.

Monica

xoxo

See you tonight....

2011-12-07T07:13:00.000+10:00

.......at Apple Tree Lane .

It's the last sale night for 2011, so

come and have a little browse ;0)

7:30pm AEST.

See you there!

Hugs

xoxo

Scrap the girls and Scrapbookits last challenge for 2011

2011-12-05T10:39:00.001+10:00

Good morning everyone!

Can you all believe it's nearly Christmas?

As per normal, my kids keep changing their minds about

what to ask Santa for. You would think they

would have it sorted by now lol!

Emily has asked for soap this year.... not sure where she came

up with that one. So it's off to Target this week

to find some cute soap to put in her stocking!

At least she's cheap lol!

So. it's Scrapbookit last challenge for 2011!

This one is a great one!

We would love to see your interpretation of the song 'Turn, Turn, Turn (to everything there is a Season) by the Byrds. You can find the full lyrics @ http://www.stlyrics.com/lyrics/forrestgump/turnturnturntoeverythingthereisaseason.htm

Your Layout must include the following:-

1. Photo 5x7";

2. Clock/s in any form;

3. Cogs;

4. A musical element;

5. Use of either the title or lyrics from this song.

I love this challenge set by Liz.

It's a song from one of my favourite movies and

has all elements that I love!

I can't show you my example just yet ;0)

Check out the blog herefor DT inspiration

and info on how to join in!

Our Mega challenge was a huge success!

We received 57 fabulous entries!

Congratulations to the winners Georgia and Jeannene!

I hope you all join this month's challenge - I would love to

see how everyone interprets this one ;0)

I also scrapped - can't believe it myself!

I'm joining in at Scrap The girls this month

as the challenge is on a topic close to my heart............babies!

I've got a little rascally baby who keeps me on my toes

all day. She is on the go from dawn til dusk

I am really exhausted at the end of the day after

chasing her around all over the place!

Here is my layout of Miss Sophie...............

I've got lots of handmade goodies in there.

My friend Kars made this gorgeous flower and there's

a glass cabochon from Apple Tree Lane

another close up................

well, off to get ready for

Wednesday night!

We have transition day at school today.

I'm a little sad Emily didn't get the teacher we wanted

so we will find out this afternoon who she will get.

Fingers crossed it's a good one!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

A quick share

2011-11-27T20:44:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

I have been a terrible blogger this last week.

I've been flat out with sick kids, getting ready for the

Apple Tree Lane sale next week and trying to get organized for Christmas

before the school holidays.

I know some people who have all their

presents wrapped already...I'm never going to

be that organized but this year, I don't want to be the

mad shopper on Christmas Eve trying to get all the presents

she left til the last minute :0(

I haven't sat down and scrapped as such but this layout has

taken me all week to scrap, one layer at a time...............

Using some of my pinwheels, cabochons and twisted raffia

as well as a sweet Purple Pumpkin button - I just love them to bits!

I actually took to the Co're dinations cardstock

with my craft scissors, just slashed it here and there

for that criss cross patterned - I don't mind how

it turned out ;0)

Have a great night everyone - thanks for

popping in and leaving some love!

Monica

xoxo

Sneaky Peaky...

2011-11-22T21:42:00.000+10:00

With Summer just around the corner

It's time to get out those summery embellies.

What do you think of these??

Check it out here .

Have a great night everyone!

It's a hot one here tonight.

Hugs

xoxo

Scrapbookit sketch challenge inspiration

2011-11-18T20:53:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

Boy is this year flying...I can't believe it's nearly over!

Christmas is only a few weeks away, it feels like

time is passing way too fast..............

The kids all finish school soon and I'm not sure if I'm ready

to have these crazy kids home for 6 weeks yet lol!

Since Sophie started to walk ( well, it's more of a waddle ) they have

taken to dressing her up and playing games with her.

Sophie loves all the attention of course, the other day they

dressed her up as "Baby" Potter...............

Complete with robe and wand.... she wouldn't leave the

glasses on much to their disappointment :0)

So, how are you all going with your Scrapbookit monthly

challenges? There's still time to get your

entries in for the last sketch challenge.

Here is my example using gorgeous Bonjour papers.

Love this paper range!!

Our monthly celebrations are nearly over!

Hmmm... I wonder who the winner will be?

Speaking of winners.....

If you would like to win a little blog candy.

Check out the giveaway I have at Apple Tree Lane .

I have been making some more of those pinwheels because

I can't get enough of them!

You will probably see them popping up on

a few of my layouts!

Off to blog and make a couple of

cards. I haven't got my copics out in a few weeks.

Will be back soon to share them ;0)

Thanks for dropping by.

Monica

xoxo

Show Us Your Stuff!!

2011-11-13T21:22:00.000+10:00

I have actually scrapped!!

I thought I might join in this time over at show us your stuff .

The challenge is a sketch challenge.............

and here is my take on the sketch..

Apologies for the dodgy night time shot but I have been so busy

lately and I really wanted to get this challenge done!

I have scrapped three wallet sized photos instead of just the one.

My handmade embellies are my own spotty pinwheels

and Alice glass cabochons.

Gee, it's nice to just have a scrap!

I might have to find sometime tomorrow while Sophie has

a sleep to do a bit more ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Hugs

xoxo

Woohoo!

2011-11-12T20:23:00.000+10:00

It's sketch time again at Scrapbookit .

We are still celebrating Scrapbookit's 1st birthday - told

you it would be a massive month!!

This is this week's sketch courtesy once again of Pagemaps.........

Now, Miss slacker over here hasn't quite finished my example.

So I will be sitting in my naughty corner getting it finished tonight :0)

Remember to get this sketch done by Friday and you could be in the running

to win an extra prize...but you gotta be in it to win it!

Speaking of prizes....did I mention that I came

runner up in the Passion for Fashion comp?

So stoked with that and the generosity of Chels !!

Now,if you would like to grab a bargain. I am having a massive

clearance over at the top 50 crafter's market .

Please check out the prices there as they are the new

clearance prices.

If you are not registered for top 50 then just email me

at appletreelanedesigns@yahoo.com.au

with your order ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Hugs

xoxo

Hey everyone!

2011-11-09T23:15:00.000+10:00

I hope everyone had a great Wednesday!!

I have a little sale going on here at the moment.

Thanks to the lovely Rebekkah from Scrapcalls . I have now crawled

out from under a rock and realized that this little market

is happening on a monthly basis......

I am thinking of going this way as opposed to having a monthly blog

sale. I will still keep the shop blog and post projects made

using my handmade goodies.

Like I mentioned I still have a sale going on right now

over at the blog but whatever doesn't sell will be

on sale this coming weekend over at the Crafter's Market .

Thanks for popping in and having

a look around. I really appreciate all the

lovely comments I receive from each and everyone of you!

Hugs

xoxo

What do you think?

2011-11-07T19:31:00.000+10:00

What do you think of these?

They are some of the goodies I will have up for

sale on Wednesday the 9th of November - yes, in 2 nights...............

I think these are my favourites!!

Check all the other sneaks out here .

Thanks for dropping by and thanks to everyone

for the birthday wishes!

Hugs

xoxo

Another sketch!!

2011-11-06T21:29:00.000+10:00

Yep, we are still having a mega birthday

month over at Scrapbookit !

We're celebrating with a whole month full of sketch

challenges!! I love a good sketch. Life gets so busy sometimes

that a challenge like this takes all the stress

out of creating - why not give it a go?

There are so many great layouts and cards in the gallery so far!

Here is this weeks sketch................

and here is my take on it using these gorgeous

papers - Bonjour collection by Kaisercraft. I loved working with this

range. The colours are so soft and pretty. It reminded me

of peppermint and strawberry ice cream - yum!

I used this quote for my journaling and title.

"May the wings of the butterfly

kiss the sun.....

and find your shoulder to light on"

Such a beautiful quote, I had to add it in there

with all those lovely alphas ;0)

I am loving these gorgeous flowers too.

I normally use them on my cards but I have been sticking

them on just about all my layouts lately....

and here is my card.....................

Remember, get this sketch in to Jo by Friday and you are

in the running to win an extra prize ;0)

Don't forget it's Apple Tree Lane Designs first ever

sale this Wednesday night!

Keep your eye out on the blog tomorrow for

lots of sneaks!!

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Monica

xoxo

That time of year...

2011-11-02T20:40:00.001+10:00

Yep, it's time for our annual trick or treat trek!

We headed out again and it was just as much fun as

last year! It was a little quite this year compared

to last. The weather wasn't the best so I think a lot of people

stayed home but there were still tons of kids

trick or treating and tons of houses with porch lights on :0)

Dylan dressed up as Harry Potter.

Corey was a pirate... no surprises there :0)

Emily had a great witch costume but changed

at the last minute and dressed up as a Princess....

she even dressed up her Alice rag doll my cousin sent

her from the US.

Sophie was an uncooperative Bumble bee!!

She was officially Barry B Benson was wasn't playing along..

She hated her hood and wouldn't sit

still for a photo!

The kids have so many lollies and we

didn't walk around as long as we did last year!

Overall, so much fun for everyone - specially Dylan

who turned 8 yesterday too!

I'm still trying to get him to sit down for a photo!

What happened to the little boy who loved

having his picture taken??

I do have this layout to share of Miss Sophie....

I've used lots of yummy flowers that my friend Karlene

made as well as these cool belt buckle I found

in a thrift shop - I just cut the middle bit

to make a circle embellishment - Don't you

just love the op shops???

I do have another layout to share but

you'll have to go here to check it out ;0)

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Hugs

xoxo

Last Passion....

2011-10-30T11:28:00.000+10:00

I'm a little bit sad that this week was the

last Passion 4 Fashion over at Scrapboutique.

I've had so much fun the past 8 weeks and they have gone by so quickly!

Our last category of fashion was..

FUTURISTIC.

Here is my layout.......................

Dylan went through a Toy Story craze and spent a few months dressed

up as Buzz lightyear 24/7. We were having a bit

of a much around with the camera one day and we

took this while we were sitting on the stairs outside.

He loves this pic because it looks like he is really flying - at least

I think he looks like he is really flying lol!

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Hope you've all had a lovely weekend.

Hugs

xoxo

Sketch challenge #2

2011-10-27T20:09:00.000+10:00

How are you all going with your

Scrapbookit sketch challenges? There's still

time to get this week's done and be in the running for

an extra special prize! Remember, entries aren't due until

the end of November but if you get that week's

sketch done by Fridays then you could win even more goodies!!

Here is my take on the sketch..........................

Gotta love those gorgeous Kaisercraft blooms....

You can find them here

Hope to see lots and lots

of gorgeous layouts in the gallery !

Head on to Apple Tree Lane and check

out my new sneaky too ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Hugs

xoxo

Don't forget.................

2011-10-26T11:29:00.002+10:00

Remember to come to

my first ever sale for a looksie................

WEDNESDAY 9TH OF NOVEMBER

7:30PM AEST

Check out my blog............

www.appletreelanedesigns.blogspot.com

Lots of sneaks coming!!!!

Hugs

xoxo

What A Day!!

2011-10-24T21:12:00.000+10:00

Hey, Hey!!

We are still partying over at Scrapbookit .

As part of our 1st birthday celebrations we are having a month

long competition - 5 different sketches to suit all

scrappers. Simply get as many of the sketches done

as you want to be in the running for some awesome prizes!!

As a bonus - get that week's sketch done by Friday midnight and

you will be in the running to win even more prizes!!

How cool is that??

Here is week 2 sketch.....................................

All these sketches come courtesy of Pagemaps .

So, come on!! Email Jo your entries now!!

Check out the Blog for details!!

I have been taking part in Scrapboutique 's Passion 4 Fashion

competition. 8 weeks of scrapbooking fun inspired

by 8 of the 9 categories of fashion.

Last week was GRUNGE week - this theme was right up my alley.

Here is the layout I created.........................

Lots of paint, misting a bit of a mess overall!

Here is a little close up.............................

I can't believe it's nearly over - and the last one is a doozy!!

Hey, head on over to my little shop for a sneaky peek

of what will be available on my first sale night!

I will be doing regular sneaks, so make

sure you check it out to keep up to date!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

2011-10-21T18:46:00.000+10:00

Wow!

Thanks everyone for your support with my new venture!

I can't wait to get everything going - it's been a full on

week over here, sourcing products and making lovely embellishments

for you all..............I have been pretty slack

with my scrapping.......but tonight is dedicated

solely to the layouts I owe Jo !

So...I have nothing new to share with you all...

I did dig up this layout I did a few weeks ago. It's one of my

favs at the moment - the photos are just classic!

Sophie's face cracks me up, she cops

a lot of love overload the poor kid lol!!

Off to do some scrappin'

Thanks to you gorgeous girls for

your comments and support!

Hugs

xoxo

Something exciting coming....................

2011-10-18T11:34:00.000+10:00

Well, hello everyone!!

Things seemed to have settled down now in the Brady household.

My BIL is doing okay and taking it easy after

suffering a major heart attack. He is so lucky to

still be here with us. It was a big wake up

call for everybody also.

My hubby is a smoker and I have been on his

case non stop for a week now, it's such a hard habit

to give up, I keep telling him all that cash could be going

on his big boat but even that doesn't do the trick.

I can't believe that Passion 4 Fashion is nearly over!!

Last week was week 6 of the comp and the fashion was , Elegant

Another one of those tricky themes for me but this is

what I came up with.............

The little girl in the photos is my MIL. She doesn't know

when the photos were taken and doesn't remember

much about the wheres and whats. I wish

I knew more.....................shows

how important recording memories truly is.

Here is a close up of my embellies.............

I was lucky enough to win Week 3 - Conservative over at Passion!

Seriously, Chelsea is so generous with all the prizes she has

up for grabs and the girls are always so encouraging

it is just so much fun playing along!!

So what's the exciting news then????

Well, I know there are many Mum's in my shoes

out there. I have been trying to find a good balance

between home and work but boy, do they make

it hard for us to go back out there and join the "real world".

So after much deliberation and a lot of set backs......................

I have decided to jump on the band wagon and sell

my own hand made goods.

I know there are lots of gorgeous shops out there - I love

some of the embellies out there and use them all the time

on my layouts and I 100% support all our local girls

putting their creative minds out there. I 'm hoping to give

you all something completely different - there may be a similarity here

and there with a product, but I'm sourcing products from

far and wide to give you all a different shopping

experience.

It's a big gamble for me as I know there is a lot of competition

out there but it's one of those things that you just have to try right?

It will either work or it won't!!

So................................ keep

your eyes peeled in the next couple of days

for the shop blog and details.

Have an awesome day y'all!

Monica

xoxo

Mega Birthday Month!!

2011-10-15T21:18:00.000+10:00

Happy birthday Scrapbookit !!

Yes, it's our first birthday and we are celebrating with an

entire month of birthday madness!!

Every week there will be a sketch posted to the Blog .

Your challenge is to create a layout and a card also

if you wish based on the sketch by the 30th of November.

As a little something extra, simply complete the weeks sketch and send

it in to Jo by that Friday to go into the draw

to win a special prize!!

Here is the first sketch courtesy of Pagemaps........

Now, head on over to the Scrapbookit Blog for all the

detail and don't forget to go shopping - there is

an awesome birthday sale happening from the 25th-29th

of October!!!!

I've had a full on week so I haven't got an example

for this sketch ( Check out Jo's on the blog)

We had a big, big fright this week........... My BIL

suffered a heart attack at the start of the week.

Thankfully he is home now, doing well but he gave us

all a big fright.

My aunt and uncle have also gone back home to LA..

the weeks just flew by and now they are on a plane home.

It's been a pretty stressful week but I will get back into

the scrapping tonight - a bit of

a crafty night to de-stress is just what I need ;0)

Hugs to you all

and thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Sharing....

2011-10-10T13:46:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

Well, with the kids back at school this week, I 've had more time during

the day for the daily routine which leaves much more

time at night to scrap!!!!

I've needed it lately, it's

been a rough old wee....................

I joined in the fun over at Pencil Lines .

I really, really loved the look of the sketch but I did

have a little trouble with it ............. here is the sketch....

Pretty cool hu?

I decided to scrap it in 12x12 format

and here is what I came up with.......................

I used Spellbinders - nested circles and Lacy circles - to

represent the flowers in the sketch.

A little bit of paint too to make it all pop,

I'm loving acrylic paint atm. It's popping up in

so many of my layouts!

I also managed to get the 5th Passion for Fashion layout done!

Last week was casual week and I couldn't

quite get my head around it.....

I don't know why as it seemed the easiest of the challenges so far?

Anyway, here is my layout..............

Extra criteria was to journal at least 40 words and to use

something found around the house.

I used a packet of Aeroplane Jelly, it went perfectly with the

colours in my layout and the little plane is just super cute ;0)

Do you love that gorgeous flower?

If you got one of these from the very talented Karlene then

you are one of the lucky ones as she is

doing something new non scrapbooking but

just as gorgeous - can't wait to tell you all ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Truly Scrumptious!!

2011-10-06T14:12:00.000+10:00

Hello there!

I have a 5 minute breather until we head out the door

for Emily's prep interview!!

Can you believe it????

I can't! My little girl is going to school next year and I am

so not ready! I was exactly the same with Corey last year.

I know a lot of parents are jumping for joy

when their little ones go to school, but I

am going to miss her so much.....................

I thought I'd share with you this little

card I made for the Truly Scrumptious challenge.

This week it's Distressing.

Here is my card using this gorgeous Whimsy stamp from

the Kenny K collection.

Isn't she just stunning???

She is Devilish Donna and I just love her to bits!!

She is like a Bratz doll crossed with a

Victoria's secret model!

Bit different from my usual Maggies hey?

I kept the design pretty simple as I wanted to be

all about her!!

Here is a close up.......................

Is it that time already???

Better be off................

Thanks for dropping by!!!!

xoxo

Halfway there....

2011-10-04T20:11:00.000+10:00

We are halfway through the Scrapbookit monthly challege.

Our monthly challenges run from the 15th of the month right

through til the `14th of the following month.

This month's challenge was set

by the super talented Chantal .

Using primary colours, create a layout and/or card.

Pretty easy hu?

I actually found this a bit challenging, as much as I love

to use these colours, together, they make my mojo

run for cover!!!

But this is one of the things I love about being on DTs,

being challenged!

Here is my layout......

A close up of these cute little embellies - how cool is that zipper?

I wasn't expecting that in my pizza box!!

Here is my card using a gorgeous

"Ladybug Tilda" stamp from the Magnolia

mini world collection.

You can find that and lots of other

beautiful products in store

I've got some sad news to share.

I have stepped down from the A2Z Scraplets design team.

It was a tough decision to make, but I was having

a hard time keeping up with the team.

I spent a great couple of years working with Julie and

a terrific team but was falling behind and struggling to find the time

to create projects -- I'm really going to miss my chippy

projects and specially Julie and the girls.

You'll still see some of my work on the blog until Julie

runs out of projects ;0)

Well, Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Remember to pop into the the Scrapbookit blog and

enter our monthly challenge - there's plenty

of time to get creating!

Hugs

Monica

xoxo

Yeehaaaa...

2011-10-02T11:02:00.000+10:00

It was "Western" week at Scrapboutique this week!

I had a bit of a hard time with this challenge at first. I couldn't

find a photo that went with the theme, so I went back and used a photo

of Corey when he was a baby. He used to love wearing

this "Woody" hat everywhere we went!

I don't think I ever put him in a sun hat - he always

had this one on his head!

I thought it would be the perfect photo for this weeks Passion..................

I made a denim embellishment by cutting up my maternity jeans!

They were more than ready to retire after all those

babies - it was time to put them to better use ;0)

There's lots of other texture in there as well,

Hessian, vinyl, paint, distress ink and twine.................................

I made these little stars also, they look country to me....like

the chaps the cowboys wear...what do you think??

I was thinking I haven't made a Magnolia card in so long!

I haven't had much time for cardmaking lately - my copic wallet

is covered in a fine layer of dust - that's not on!!

So out came the markers and I made this.................

She is one of my favourite images....

King Tilda from the You're So Special Collection.

She needed a bit of sparkle so I gave her glittery socks

with some Kindyglitz ;0)

Isn't it nice when you get a chance to create

something just because you feel like it?

Hope you are all having a great weekend!

and.................. spare a thought for me today..

if the Warriors win the footy Grand Final, I.....will.................die..........

Hugs and thanks for dropping by!

So slack.....

2011-09-25T21:25:00.000+10:00

I have been a terrible blogger again!!

Wow, hasn't this week just flown? Well it has for me,

we've been on the go the entire week - I'm going

to need a holiday from the holidays!

The highlight of our week was visiting Australia Zoo

and seeing Terri, Bindi and Robert!!

The kids were over the moon!

They love Bindi and were very impressed when she fed

the Crocs!

My Aunt and Uncle were so happy to see lots of Australian

animals. They would have happily spent the day

in Kangaroo Heaven!

so..... it hasn't left much time for scrappin'.

I barely finished my Passion 4 Fashion layout!

This week was Conservative week, soft colours, pretty, feminine

styles - YIKES!!!

This one did my head in a bit but this is what

I came up with..................

I did struggle getting the colours right, normally I'm used to

scrapping with brighter, bolder hues'

Here's a close up of the Prima flowers I used...

Yes!! I used Prima flowers!

Shock horror - how girly is that???

I actually don't mind them lol!

I might have to add more Prima to my stash ;0)

Hopefully things will slow down a bit this week

and I can get some scrappin' time!

We've all been coming home and hitting the sack

straight away. The kids have been

sleeping in though - even Sophie.

So there is that...... lol!

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Monica

xoxo

Passion for Fashion week 2

2011-09-18T11:53:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

Finally it's the school holidays here!

We have all been waiting anxiously for this break, it's

so nice not to do the run-a-round every morning.

I have been slack with my Passion 4 Fashion layout this week.

I didn't get it done until last night after I made myself

a little nook on the dining table in which to scrap.

Our house is still a construction zone and I'm so looking forward

to the day we can finish up :0)

So, week 2 is Dramatic.

Had me a little stumped at first, but I came up with this in the end............

I used vibrant colours, textures like Vinyl which are pretty

trendy atm. Metallic element are my

chipboard letters which is also the other part of the criteria...

Using a movie quote. I used "Hello Gorgeous"

from Funny Girl!

and a close up of the embellies......

I wonder what tomorrow's challenge will be?

This is so much fun, there's still time

for anyone that wants to to join in....... just go here and register!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hugs

Monica

xoxo

Scrap The Girls September Challenge

2011-09-13T14:53:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

I hope you have all had a lovely start to the week.

It's back to beautiful spring weather here after a frosty weekend.

I was digging around my stash last night

and managed to find some bits and pieces to enter

the Scrap The Girls September challenge - using CLIPS.

I've used a large paper clip in this layout and

embellished it with a large button......

a close up of my embellies

The paper flowers I made by default lol!

I had started to roll them into spiral flowers when it all

went wrong and instead of rolling I overlapped them instead..

I think they turned out okay in the end ;0)

The countdown for the school holidays is on!!

I'm so excited, my auntie and uncle who live in California,

are visiting us for 6 weeks!!

I haven't seen them in 18 years - I can't believe it's been that long!

I'm so looking forward to seeing them again - we have

been counting down the days here.

Bring on Friday!!

Have a great Monday :0)

Monica

xoxo

I have a passion....

2011-09-09T12:14:00.001+10:00

For Fashion!!!!

It seems that every year Scrapboutique come up with another

awesome scrap competition!!

I jumped at the chance to explore the categories of fashion

through scrapping!!

For someone who has been mojo-less for weeks, this

is sure to get the creative juices flowing!!

Week 1 is High fashion week!

Now, who doesn't love a little Haute Couture??

When I was in high school, my favourite designer was

Richard De Chazal . I used to dream about

owning one of his dresses.....

( Hmm...I still do!)

So with that in mind, I made this layout using the

"unusual and rare" elements that make up

Haute Couture..........

I altered these photos of Emily and made some of my own

"custom" embellies.

The tree embellishment is made from a twig, I have

wrapped felt leaves at the ends and then tied them off with baker's twine.

I've used dress makers tracing paper to make some matching

lollipop flowers, tulle and bits of fly screen!

I gotta say, this was so much fun!!

I can't wait to see what the next 7 weeks will bring!

I hope you all have a fab weekend!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

A2Z Scraplets September challenge

2011-09-06T20:48:00.000+10:00

It's about that time again......

Time for the A 2 Z Scraplets sketch challenge!!

Here is the fabulous sketch, this month

which comes from Inspired Blueprints .

and here is my take on the sketch.....

For this sketch I've used some "Monkey Hanging" engraved shape.

Check them out and all the other fantastic

engraved shapes here .

If you see something you love, just

ask your local retailer to pretty please stock some

A2Z Scraplets chipboard ;0)

and a close up of some embellies..................

So, pop on over to the blog

and join in for the chance to win

a fantastic prize!!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

RAK winner

2011-09-01T22:08:00.000+10:00

Hiya everyone!

Did you hop along with us

during the Scrapbookit blog hop??

The RAK winner for my blog is....

MEGAN ANGEL

Congratulations Megan!!!

I would love to hear from you soon so I can send you your RAK!

Simply email me at scrapgizmo@yahoo.com.au

Hugs to you all

xoxo

Purple Pumpkin August Challenge

2011-08-31T14:18:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

Sophie and I had a really wonderful day catching

up with friends I hadn't seen in 10 years!!

It's amazing how easy it is to fall back into the same

easy friendships with some people. It's like the time

apart has not made a difference and you go right

back to where you started - plus a few kiddies ;0)

We had planned to throw Sophie a big party on the weekend but

the weather did not agree with us, so instead

some relies popped in to wish her a Happy birthday.

I baked her some scrummy cupcakes.....

which the Birthday girl loved!!!

First time eating frosting and chocolate sprinkles

Yummo!!

I also did some face painting amongst other

things to keep the kids indoors and amused.

I don't know, I think I need to

practice my face painting skills!

Luckily, I have plenty of volunteers to be

my guinea pigs :0)

So, the scrapping Mojo has definitely gone out the window.

I just can't seem to find any inspiration lately.

Largely, it's because all my stuff is still packed away in boxes etc...

I need a big kick up the butt - so I want to

get lots of challenges done to get the creative juices flowing!

How about leaving it to the last minute with the

Purple Pumpkin sketch challenge??

Well better late than never I suppose lol!

Here is my take on the super cool sketch by Melinda Thompson.

So here's to a month full of challenges..

and if someone finds my Mojo, please

send him back!!

Hugs and thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

OMG!!

2011-08-25T12:39:00.000+10:00

My little Sophie...... can you believe she is 1!!???

I can't quite get my head around it, it just seems to have

happened so quickly :0(

I'm a little sad that my baby is growing up but of course

happy that she is a healthy, happy little girl.

I wish I had a perfect, beautiful picture to show you but no......

You'll get Sophie as she is, being a little rascal lol!

She is such a sweet little girl but boy can she get up to no good!

Her favourite spots are the cat food, the dog food, the pot plants,

the bookcase and our shower...everything else

she hasn't figured it out yet lol!

Here she is playing in the mud................

She loves crawling around the yard and being part of the action

and a little mud was not going to stop her ;0)

Here's a layout I pulled together last night of her getting into

Dad's pot plant..............

I used some yummy Webster's Pages and other goodies from

Scrapbookit one of the friendliest shop on the web ;0)

I'm still in a little shock over my last baby being

12 months old ( 10 months corrected )

Where does the time go?

Have a great day everyone!

Monica

xoxo

2011-08-21T09:41:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone!

It's a cold, rainy day over here.

The kids are already going stir crazy - and so am I!!

I suppose, we had to expect a couple of days to be winterish, lol!

We have been having such beautiful weather, I really can't complain ;0)

I've been trying to get some scrapping done, it's a bit

hard atm with all my stuff packed away in boxes.

We are in the middle of renovating and the house is chaos!

I keep having to dig around for bits and pieces and it's driving me insane!

I can't wait to have my own little space set up ;0)

I have a couple of layouts to show you...

This first one is of my little Superhero getting up to no good.

I remember doing crazy things like this when I was little so I had

a good laugh when I saw it - I probably should have

got him in strife but it was pretty funny :0)

This one is using some A2Z Scraplets cogs.

These have to be one of my favourite embellishments, I use them

all the time for my Boy layouts!

The word "Mates" is one of the newer title releases, isn't it great?

Well, I hope everyone is having a great weekend.

We might brave the weather soon and take the kids to the park.

I'm sure there's lots of good mud puddles to jump in ;0)

Keep your eyes peeled for the winner of my little RAK soon.

We had a great response to the Scrapbookit first ever Blog Hop

and we can't wait to see your beautiful creations!

I hope you all had a great time visiting all the DT blogs!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Just Magnolia - Holiday Fun challenge

2011-08-16T11:50:00.000+10:00

Good morning!!

What a week I've had....it's not happy times having 4

sick children at home :0(

The boys went back to school today but the girls are still down

Sophie with a bad cold and poor Emily with the flu - I'm hoping

she does not share that one with any of us.

With Sophie's birthday coming up, I wanted to make her a little

card using this magnolia image. I have been wanting

to use it for ages and thought I might play along with the Just Magnolia holiday

fun challenge this week!!

here is my card using this sweet little Tilda from the

Sweet Rainbow Collection.

I've used a mixture of Crate Paper and Sassafras Lass patterned paper.

A Magnolia Doo hickey die, paper roses and twine.

I've coloured my image with Copic ciao markers.

I'm still playing around with my copics, trying to to figure it all out lol!

I just love colouring these images but boy...have I got

something to show you next - you might be surprised!!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Scrapbookit Blog Hop!!

2011-08-14T19:00:00.001+10:00

Hello everyone!!

I hope you are not too tired to hop along with us tonight ;0)

You should have arrived here from Mel's blog.

If you haven't, jump back to Scrapbookit and start again!!

Do you love the look of our sketch challenge?

I have to admit - this is not the way I usually scrap so it was a

little daunting at first but once I started I had

a lot of fun putting it together.

Of course, it helps that I had the gorgeous range from

Webster's Pages, Let's Celebrate to play with!

Jo always has the latests and greatest in store so make sure you pop

on over to the shop for a look around!

Here is what I created with the Webster's Pages Let's Celebrate collection...........

I must apologize for the quality of the photo......

A better quality one is coming up...watch this space :0)

Now pop on over to Liz's blog to check out

what she has done with all the lovely goodies you can

find at Scrapbookit!!

Join in our monthly challenge, follow along and of course,

leave lots of love!!

You could win yourself some prizes just for playing along ;0)

I forgot to show you the RAK you could win

just by leaving a comment on my blog..................

Have fun everyone!

Monica

xoxo

Once Upon A Sketch August 1st challenge

2011-08-12T10:48:00.000+10:00

Good morning everyone!

Well haven't I been a slack blogger lately?

I just can't seem to get it together. I haven't done a great deal of scrapbooking

lately or had time to make any cards.

I've been finding it really hard to get organized and find a bit

of "me" time to get all the things I need to get done, done.

To top it all of I have 4 sick kiddies at home.

Dylan is probably not that sick but there are so many

nasties going around at school at the moment I 've kept him

home in hopes he doesn't pick anything nastier up and share with his siblings!!

I was quite determined to get something done last night though

and stayed up late in between the kids waking up for a bit of a cuddle,

a feed or some medicine, I got this layout done!!

It's for the Once Upon A Sketch August 1st challenge.

Here is the sketch ......

and my interpretation.

I've flipped it clockwise so I could scrap this

photo of my gorgeous girl.

I'm just happy that I got some scrapping done!!!

And... who doesn't love a great sketch ;0)

Well...... back to the battlefield!

Have a great weekend everyone and thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Lots to share

2011-08-06T09:51:00.000+10:00

YAY!! It's Saturday!

I so look forward to the weekends, it means I can dag around in my ugg boots all day!

Michael's gone on a fishing trip this weekend

and Sophie has been a little monster so far.

Typical - when he gets home tomorrow I might need a spot

of retail therapy ;0)

I have some A2Z Scraplets projects to share

using some new release words

I love chippy titles, they are so easy to work with.

Just glue and go!!

This layout is using " Our Princess" title.

Using "A Glimpse Of Heaven" and an older Scraplets, "Birds on branch"

Using new word "OMG"

I had a little scrappy night last night, something I haven't done

in a while. I played along with the White with 1 August challenge.

This month the challenge is White + purple + doodling.

Here is what I came up with.....

The journal block, title and blossoms are all doodled ;0)

Well, it's off to get ready for a birthday party...just what

I need, a houseful of kids high on sugar!

Thanks for dropping by.

Monica

xoxo

Scrapbookit's first ever blog hop!!

2011-08-05T11:27:00.000+10:00

Join us for our very first Blog Hop!!!

SCRAPBOOKIT’S BLOG HOP

August 14th @ 7.00pm

Join us on a trip around our Design Teams blogs, 'Follow' Us and enter our monthly challenges to be in the running for some great prizes

Looking forward to seeing you there ;0)

Monica

xoxo

More A2Z Scraplets!

2011-08-01T10:48:00.000+10:00

Good morning everyone!

Can you believe it's August already? I can't believe how fast the year

is flying. It will be school holidays before we know it!

Of course, the 1st of the month means a new sketch challenge at A2Z Scraplets .

Here is this month's sketch from 500 top Scrapbooking sketches....

and here is my example......................

I also have a little project to share with you using the new release "Robots"

I made this canvas set for the boys room. We are in the middle of re-decorating

and renovating so every room in the house is getting

a make over!

I used lots of paint, glimmermist and stamping!

I also added mesh, paper and muslin for a bit of texture.

The boys love them !!

These shapes are some of my favourite new releases.

Make sure you head on over to the website and check out some

more new release Scraplets as well as old favourites!

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Monica

xoxo

Scrap The Girls July challenge

2011-07-27T13:44:00.000+10:00

Hello!

I have been MIA the last fortnight, really trying to catch up

on some sleep and trying to get a bit of a routine established with Miss Sophie.

She has been sick with a cold and teething - she has 6 teeth coming

at once!! She is not a happy girl and has been waking up about 3 times a night.

This morning she was up at 3:00 am all bright eyed and bushy tailed ready

for the day to begin!!

I've decided to give up on the sleep idea and just keep truckin'!!

I would be cranky except she is a funny, cheeky little thing.............

Her latest, she loves getting into Daddy's pot plants and eating the potting mix.

At least she has retired the cat dish I suppose, lol!

So, I have been trying to get this layout done for about a week!!

It's for the Scrap The Girls July challenge and it's a picture inspiration.

The picture is this album cover..............

I love, love Pink so I had to have a go at this challenge!!

The other criteria was to include a song title and/or lyric by Pink in the layout.

Here is my layout inspired by the pic with some lyrics from

one of my favourite Pink songs.................

Well, Sophie is having her afternoon nap so I might get some paint out

and have a little play ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Magnolia Inspiration Challenge - Nautical theme

2011-07-23T08:11:00.000+10:00

Well, my plan to have a scrappy night backfired on me.....

I got distracted by blogging and surfing the net and then Sophie

was up all night again.

She is getting 6 teeth at once and is not a happy girl.

At least I managed a little time to get this done.

It's for Official Magnolia inspiration challenge blog .

The theme is Nautical.

I made this little tag shaped card and added one of my fav stamps,

Pirate Edwin.

I coloured him in with Copic markers ;0)

and a close up...isn't he adorable???

I might try having a scrappy night again tonight.

Or perhaps I should get some sleep?

Hmmm........ I know

what I will end up doing ;0)

Have a great Saturday everyone!!

Monica

xoxo

Merry Christmas.....

2011-07-22T15:53:00.000+10:00

In July!!!

At least it is over at Scrapbookit !

We are celebrating Christmas early with this month's challenge.

Use all your scrappy paper to create a Christmas layout

using non traditional papers. Based on a sketch provided by Scrapbooking Memories

inspired by a layout by yours truly in Vol 13 No.8 ;0)

if you prefer to make cards, have a go at creating a set of 3 cards

using non traditional colours.

Or have a go at both for a better chance of winning!

Check out all the details here .

What are you all up to this weekend?

Michael is away for work so I'm planning a long scrappy night

in front of the telly tonight ;0)

I might get some challenges done and maybe even a card or two.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Monica

xoxo

2011-07-14T10:46:00.000+10:00

Good morning everyone!

I have been a terrible blogger the last few weeks.

I have been unsuccessfully trying to catch up on some sleep, since a certain

little baby has decided she doesn't like the idea of sleep at all.

I think it's a combination of teething and the cold that keep her

up at night but it has turned me into a zombie......

The boys have gone back to school and the house is pretty quite once again.

They are the best of friends one minute and hate each other

the next! They remind me of my sister Lily and I when

we were kids, we used to fight like cats and dogs but we turned out ok!

So, there is hope for them yet ;0)

I haven't done much scrapping or card making the last week, but I do have this

layout to share........................

The miserable summer we had :0(

Hopefully, Mother Nature will be good to us this

coming summer!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

A2Z Scraplets goodness!!

2011-07-08T21:32:00.000+10:00

It's sketch time again at A2Z Scraplets!!!

Here is the fantastic sketch......................

and here is my example.........................

The Rules:
You need to create a layout based on the above sketch.
Its open to your own interpretation, but it must be recognisable.
Only one entry per person.
You do not have to use Scraplets on your layout BUT if you have some in your stashes, feel free to put them on your page.
This competition is open to EVERYONE!!

How To Enter:
Email your layout
by 31st of July 2011,
to
challenges@a2zscraplets.com.au
Please make sure images are re-sized to max of 600x600 pixels and no larger that 200kb,
and that you name the file with your name.

The Prizes:There are 3 prizes up for grabs.
Each prize is a mystery pack of Scraplets.
First prize is selected as the "judges choice".
Second & Third prize will be selected via random prize draws.
You have to be in it to win it, so what are you waiting for !!

Also a little chipboard project to share with you.

I just love the assortment of 3D shapes in the Scraplets collection!

This one is one of my favourites, Cupcake 3D 1....

I decided to turn it into a cute little door hanger.

I simply covered the frosting shapes with patterned paper............

the base is corrugated cardboard. I have dry painted small strokes

of cream paint on it and then adhered pink mesh for

a bit more texture ;0)

Now, guess where it is?

Blu tacked over Emily's bed - the Queen of everything pink!

Thanks for dropping by everyone!

Monica

xoxo

Creatalicious Challenge

2011-07-03T19:24:00.000+10:00

Half way through the school holidays and I haven't gone insane ....yet!!

I've really enjoyed spending time with the kids and watching

their antics. I was out the back pushing Sophie on the swing when I

spotted this.........................

A part of me was saying.... Hmm...I better stop this, but the scrapper inside me

pulled out the camera instead lol!! I probably won't win

Mother of the year, putting Scrappin' before safety ha ha ha!!

I did sneak in a few photos before Batman was put in line.....

I had time last night to make a card for the Creatalicious Challenge #23.

It was very late at night so this is probably not the best job with this cute

little Magnolia stamp, but I really loved the sketch and just wanted

to have a go at it anyway ;0)

Here's the front of the card..................

Opens up to this for a sentiment................

and a close up of the image and embellies...............

Well I hope you have all had a wonderful weekend!

We had a wonderful time yesterday with Dylan and Sophie. It's so much easier

with just two kids lol! I wouldn't have it

any other way but!

Emily and Corey enjoyed their Disney show with Grandma and came

home with lots of souvenirs and a massive bucket of

popcorn, of course that didn't last long!

Now we are all settling down for the night - it's freezing here tonight!

Time to get under the doona!!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Scrap The girls June challenge

2011-06-29T21:35:00.000+10:00

Getting in, in the nick of time!!

I have been meaning to do the Scrap The Girls challenge for ages but with the kids

at home this week I have lost track of time lol!

The challenge is a colour challenge which I would love to show you

but Blogger is having hiccups again and I won't let me upload

more than one photo at a time.

The colours are white/cream, light pink,dark pink, black.

and here is my layout..................................

We are a few days into the school holidays now and already

the boys are fighting like cats and dogs. I thought

they would make it to the end of the week at least!!

It's been lovely not having to rush out the door every morning but :0)

We have lots planned for the rest of the week so hopefully that will keep

them out of mischief ;0)

Corey and Emily are going to Disney on Ice with Grandma and we

are planning a night at the Drive - in with just Dylan and Sophie.

I haven't been to a drive -in theatre in years!

Have a great rest of the week everyone!

Monica

xoxo

2011-06-26T20:49:00.000+10:00

What a beautiful day!!

We had perfect weather here today, a game of backyard

cricket was on the cards early on and a trip to the BMX track

to enjoy the sunshine and warm air!

Now that the school holidays are here, I'm keeping my fingers

crossed we have more of this weather !

I have a little peek at a project I did for Jo!

Have you checked out Scrapbookit yet?

I had so much fun playing with the Forest Friends stamp set

by The Greeting Farm!

I made a little bunting to hang from the girls room...

How sweet are these cuties??

and wise old owl....I never get sick of owl images!

This one is adorable :0)

Pop on over to the Blog to check out more, become a follower

and join in our monthly challenges!

I gotta say, I'm looking forward to these holidays.

Mother Nature has even warmed the days for us to enjoy :0)

Off to a great start already!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Helloo!!

2011-06-22T20:00:00.000+10:00

Wow, isn't time flying? I can't believe it's nearly the end of June!

Only 2 more days until the school holidays!

It's been a while since I posted. It has been mayhem here at

home. This little cutie is making life very colourful....

She thinks she is very clever, waving at everybody. She has

started crawling as well and gets around slowly but with purpose,

I think she will be just as cheeky as the rest of them lol!

She's been a little monster this week - teething - I

had forgotten how awful it is :0(

We are very biased of course, but we think she is the cutest....

and check out the eyelashes.... no mascara for this little girl!!

I do have a project to share, I have been busy scrapping ;0)

This little popcorn box I made for Corey to keep

his hard earned pocket money in - it works better than a wallet

or money tin for him ;0)

There are some details on how to make it here

www.scrapbookitblog.blogspot.com

(Yes, blogger is still not liking me )

The Scrapbookit challenge is underway also and since it's been

so chilly, Jo has decided to bring some sunshine around!! The monthly

challenge theme is "Summertime". Perfect to chase

the winter blues away ;0)

Here is my layout.......................

Go and check out the blog here..................

www.scrapbookitblog.blogspot.com

for a special Facebook giveaway!!

You don't want to miss this one ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

A2Z Scraplets blog hop!!!

2011-06-13T20:15:00.001+10:00

WELCOME ABOARD!!!

All the Designers have come together to showcase your favourite Scraplets using a Sketch from PageMaps. We are happy that you can join us for this fun filled event.

You should have arrived to my blog from Mel's blog

If that is not where you arrived from, then please join us at the A2Z Scraplets Blog to start the hop from the beginning so you don’t miss a thing!

All the Designers will showcase their take on the blog hop Sketch.

A few things to remember to join in and be eligible for prizes

You must be a follower of A2Z Scraplets

“Like” the A2Z Scraplets Facebook page here.

Visit all the blogs on the list and comment on every blog at least once throughout the event.

Create your own LO based of the Blog Hop Sketch – we would love to see you using Scraplets but this is not a requirement.

You have until Thursday 30 June (Midnight) to leave all your comments and upload your take on the sketch to be in the running to win the Grand Prize

This is the sketch..............

and my take on the sketch.............. flipped ;0)

Now head on over to Tracey's blog and

keep hopping along!!

I hope you have a fun night and get lots of inspiration

from the DT girls!

***Apologies on the lateness, I've been having blogger problems again****

Hugs

Monica

xoxo

A couple of shares

2011-06-10T14:18:00.000+10:00

Okay, so I'm not getting much sympathy from my friend's down south about

the cold weather we are having up here in QLD!

I saw it was 0 degrees in Canberra today - I hope you are all keeping

warm down there, I would have kept the kids home from school, turned the heater on

and watched movies under a doona lol!

I think it's safe to say I'm never moving down south ;0)

I had a little play along at Once Upon A .....Sketch . I love the challenge

this fortnight to scrap about a female - of course I had to

scrap one of my girls ;0)

Now, I think Blogger is playing tricks on me again because

I can't copy the original sketch from the blog to my computer...but just

go here to check it out ;0)

Here is my take on the sketch. I scraped it in 8.5x11 inches and flipped it.

It's been a long time since I made a card!!! I remember not so long ago

when card making had completely taken over my life! Now it's

back to the scrapbooking table lol! If someone

can tell me how to find the right balance and do both

that would be much appreciated ;0)

I had a little play along with the Bizzy Bec's June challenge.

All about Lace!!

Here is my card using a sweet Magnolia stamp.....

and a close up of Tilda and some embellishments.

I've coloured her in with Copic markers ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Baby it's cold...

2011-06-07T12:26:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!!

well, it's wonderful to be back in the Blogging world.

I've had the worst run with blogger, but they were quick to help out when

I started complaining, so thank -you Blogger!!

It is freezing here this morning - well, for us anyway.

I almost felt sorry for Emily going to swimming lessons, but then we walked into the pool

and it was warm as toast. The water was like bath water - so warm!!

Perhaps that's why she was extra silly today.

I got to play with these papers for Ideal Papercraft .

I have to confess, Pink Paislee Butterfly Garden though beautiful, is not

the type of paper I have in my stash so I didn't really know

what to do with it at first lol!

Here is one of the layout...............

and I have to balance the girliness out with this one using

some older Scraplets - Monkeys!

Check out this little girl.....................

Sophie is 9 months old ( 7 months corrected age ). She really is

growing like a weed. She is sitting up, attempting to crawl, waves hello and

bye - bye, claps her hands and adores her vegemite!!

I think I might grab the girls and read books under the doona...

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr...bring back the sunshine!

Thanks for dropping by.

Monica

xoxo

A2Z Scraplets Blog Hop!!!

2011-06-04T12:23:00.001+10:00

All Aboard the A2Z Blog Hop Train.

Yes it is time for another fun filled Blog Hop with the Design Team.

There are some great prizes up for grabs!

To start the train we would love you to promote the blog hop on Facebook
Please comment here when you have and you will go into the draw to win one of our random prizes.

Hope you can join us!

I also have some projects to share!!!

This here is a layout of my two gorgeous nieces Bainca and Andrea
all dressed up for a Halloween party :0)

and here is another Purple Pumpkin layout from my guest DT spot...

I love how babies sleep in the oddest positions - so cute!!!

and a little project for Jo over at Scrapbookit .

Flashcards for Corey using Party Animals pp!!

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Nice to see the sun out here in Brisbane ;0)

Hugs

xoxo

I'm Back!!

2011-06-01T11:30:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone!!

It's been ages since I've been able to post anything.

I've been having issues with blogger again - is it just me ?

No worries, I'm back. Using old editor seems to work whenever I am

having blogger issues.

Well, it is well and truly winter and I am definitely feeling it over here!

I'm not a big fan of the cold weather. Specially when I am up at the

crack of dawn with Sophie - It's even too cold to go for an early morning jog :0(

I've had a go at doing the Sketch challenge over at Ideal Papercraft.

It's been a while since I've done one but here is the sketch for June............

and my example using some Harry Potter papers..................

My boys are HUGE Harry Potter fans ( alright, I am too!!)

You can find more info in the forum - just click on the

link in the sidebar to go to the forum.

(ah.... love you blogger)

Here is a close up of my embellies...

loving hessian at the moment . Yes, I've actually been making my own embellies!

Shock horror!!

Love to see you go on over to Ideal and having a go ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

XOXO

Happy Birthday to Em!!

2011-05-26T20:47:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

Look who is 4 years old......................

I can't believe Emily is 4!! Where has the time gone? It was only yesterday

she was a sweet little baby. Now she is a loud, cheeky, boisterous Missy

who can drive us insane lol! But we do love her to bits......

Also I want to say a BIG thank-you to everyone who has popped

by my blog and purple pumpkin blog also.

I really appreciate all the love you have left. I haven't been able to

leave some love over there as I'm having trouble logging into

some blogger accounts. The ones that require a password are not liking me at the moment

so apologies to everyone who I haven't left a comment for - I'm there

visiting though ;0)

Thanks girls!

Mwahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Lots to share!!

2011-05-25T13:19:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

What a beautiful day!! It has been so lovely and sunny - such

a change from the ever present rain. It's very windy though and a little chilly.

at least for us Queenslanders who aren't used to the cold lol!

Guess what??? I'm the Guest Designer for purple pumpkin this month!!!

I just love Purple Pumpkin embellishments. They are by far my

favourite and I use them on nearly every layout :0)

Thanks so much Sam for the chance to play with these little beauties.....

This layout using some delicious spotty buttons and new pink felt flower!!

This layout using a spotty button ( ooohh, we all love these don't we?)

and spotty denim as well as my new addiction - twine!!

Make sure you pop on over to the blog and check out more

gorgeous creations and inspiration from the talented DT!!

If you are up for a challenge....check this one out!!

For this Months Layout challenge at scrapbookit you Must include:

Your title Must start with the letter M.
You Must include at least 3 products that start with the letter M.
You Must add a handMade embellishment to your layout

Mmmmmm.... a bit of a challenge hey?

Here is what I came up with.....

and there is a card challenge too!!!

Here is my card - how sweet is the Kaisercraft "Party Animals" collection???!!

Head on over here to check out the card sketch and more important

details for this month's comp!!

There is still lots of time, entries are due on the 14th of April :0)

Did I mention that today is great Football weather?

GO THE MIGHTY MAROONS!!!!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

A share...

2011-05-21T20:03:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!!

I hope you've all had a great Saturday :0)

It was a bleak day here in our parts but at least it hasn't

been as cold.

I'm very proud of Dylan this week, not only was he student of the

week at school, he also won a competition for the

Under 8s day celebrations. He had the chance

to design a badge, the theme was "Bush To Beach" and his design

was the winning entry for grade 2!

He received this certificate at parade and the whole of Grade

2 will be wearing his badge design next Friday!

I haven't been scrapping a great deal this week, but did have

a little play with some photos of Sophie................. this one is my fav!

she is filling out our little girl!

She weighs 8 kilos now - not the little sparrow that

was "failing to thrive"!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Ideal Papercraft Design Team Call

2011-05-21T18:46:00.000+10:00

Have you ever dreamt of being part of a Design Team? Do you think there is something you can contribute to and inspire in other scrappers? Are you a self-motivated Scrap Booker who would like to be part of a friendly team? If so; then this may just be the opportunity you have been dreaming of! Ideal Papercraft is currently preparing for a growth phase and we are looking for some new team members to be part of this exciting time.

As part of your Expression of Interest, we have a few challenges we would like you to complete over the next few weeks and submit to us for our consideration:
• Submit a layout with sketch by Friday 27th May.
• A Beyond the Page project of your choice. Photos and a description of your project are due by Friday June 10, 2011.
• In an email to us, please tell us a little about yourself and why you would like to be part of our team, make 5 suggestions for improving our store’s Forum and/or Blog; and briefly describe your scrapping ‘style’. Please send this email with your layout & sketch submission.
• Submit a layout or card. In step-by-step instructions explain a technique that you have used in this layout or card. Due by Friday 3rd June.
• If you are or have been part of another DT, please outline your role in that team.
• If you have an online Blog, please include a link to this.

Criteria for being a part of the Ideal Papercraft Design Team will also include:
• A willingness to participate in Cybercrops and the planning of such (currently held every two months). Each Design Team member is required to host either one challenge or two games for each cybercrop.
• Participation in monthly Design Team meetings held in our chat room, which is attached to the store’s Blog.
• Be familiar with the use of PhotoBucket and loading of images to this resource.
• Successful applicants will also be required to participate in the Forum and Blog on a regular basis.

All submissions are to be emailed to: mary@idealpapercraft.com.au

Would be great to see lots of you apply!

So get scrapping!!

Make sure you head on over to the forum to meet

some wonderful scrappers and join in the fun.

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Show Us Your Stuff!!

2011-05-19T14:30:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone!

I thought I might have a little play over at Show Us Your Stuff.

For the second monthly challenge there is this cool sketch

to play with ......

And here is my version of the sketch....................

and of course, a handmade item.

I used this sweet X-Large button from

Purple Pumpkin :0)

Is it that time already?

I better be off to do the school run....

it was such a beautiful day this morning and out of nowhere

the rains came. It has been bleak ever since.

Better pack the raincoats ;0)

Thanks for dropping by.

Monica

xoxo

I'm Back!!

2011-05-17T21:43:00.000+10:00

Hey everyone!!

I have been a slack blogger again this week :0(

Whilst our bad luck improved- I won't speak of the boys' bunkbeds, which

literally collapsed when we tried to shift them ( insert scream here ).... I've been

sick with the flu and a stomach virus. I'm not quite 100% yet, but feel

so much better. I've spent the last few days in bed, trying

to get as much shut eye as I possibly can.

I do have a few bits and pieces to show you. I thought I might spread them out.

If you head on over to the A2Z Scraplets BLOG, you will

see some of the new release chipboard products

for the month including these words....

"Finger Painting Fun"

These words do come joined, I've just separated them to spread them out ;0)

I also had a little play with some Magnolia Mini world stamps

from the lovely Jo Bosslady of the wonderful Scrapbookit .

I love these little girls to bits! The mini version didn't

take as long to colour in so they are great for when you are pressed

for time but still want to give a handmade gift.

I decorated a door hanger for the girls room.

Emily is a huge fan of Tilda as well so she was more than happy to

have this little something in her room ;0)

Here is a close up of Tilda...

Isn't she adorable??!?!

Make sure you pop on over to the shop to check out the

HUGE range of stamps including these little cuties!!

Well, I will be back with more projects to share!!

I know I should be going to bed but it's been ages since I've had

a bit of "me" time......

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

What's Happening?!?!

2011-05-10T12:04:00.002+10:00

Hi everyone!

Long time, no post... we seem to be having a run of bad luck. Everything

is going wrong! Both our computers failed - I'm getting a new

one luckily and hubby did end up getting himself a laptop ;0)

Our car has been playing up - a brand new one mind you!

Our mower broke down, my mobile isn't

working properly - blogger has not been liking me lately

either and won't let me post unless I go back to the old editor...

Here's hoping that is it for now and we get some good luck!

I wanted to play along at Bird Is The Word challenges, which you

can find here http://birdisthewordchallenge.blogspot.com/ .

The criteria for this particular challenge was to include the

word Begin/beginning somewhere in your layout.

There was also a sketch for inspiration, but I opted to just

do my own thing ;0)

This is a layout of Sophie and I having a cuddle.

She was only a few days old and so teeny tiny!

I'll be back with more projects to share soon ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Just sharing.....

2011-05-01T19:41:00.000+10:00

Hello everyone, I hope you have all had a wonderful

weekend. We have had a quite day here at home. The kids ( except the baby ) have

gone to Grandma and Grandpa's for the night - I didn't know

what to do with myself, luckily we caught up with

friends we hadn't seen in a while. It took my mind off my empty house.

Isn't funny, how you wish for a break sometimes and

when they are gone you miss them like crazy?

There was no time for scrapping though as we have been assembling

new furniture and relocating children to different rooms. I've had

hubby home on holidays and I think he is looking

forward to going back to work lol!

I do have a few things to share......

First, this layout of my two girls.

Looking at Sophie, she was so scrawny then, it's hard

to believe how frail she was. Looking at her now

she is a little buddah lol!

Quick and sweet, Miss Emily doing her thing...............

I made this card last night. The front is a little pocket, I wanted it to look like

a jeans pocket, to slip a little tag. I don't know much about the bubba

this card is intended for so I left the tag blank, ready to be filled out when

she arrives in a few months..................

and for something different I went for a circle shaped card - careful

though, they do roll lol!

well the plans tonight are for a movie or two. Can't remember the last time we did

that. normally we are sending the kids to bed right now.

Time to put the feet up and relax ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Hooray!!

2011-04-27T21:14:00.000+10:00

My laptop has been fixed and I'm so happy that I had to pop

in and share a couple more projects with you - truth be told, I

wanted to see what they look like for "real" lol - I think it's time to retire

the old desktop, I'm trying to convince hubby to buy a laptop too

but as long as his computer games are running he;s happy lol!

This is a little tissue box I made for Jo over at Scrapbookit.

I used Kaisercraft Lullaby collection made just for our precious little bundles

of joy. I thought this tissue box would be a sweet little

gift for a new baby in hospital - they sure seem to go through the

tissues quickly and a handmade gift is always so special ;0)

a close up of the paper blooms, heart doily and felt embellishments.

I also wanted to share this clock that has been adorning my wall for months now.

I never thought to take a picture of it before. I can tell you my kids

love it a little too much sometimes - I have lost count of how many

times the birdie has flown the coop lol!

The cute little birdie .....

and a close up of some yummy embellies ;0)

Okay, I have a confession to make.......................

I'm watching the William and Kate movie on TV and I'm hooked lol!

I better go and dream of fairy tale weddings...ah, I'm such a girl he he he...

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Scrapbookit monthly challenges

2011-04-26T20:48:00.000+10:00

How did you all enjoy your Easter break?

We had a quite time at home this Easter, the Easter bunny paid us a visit

and left us many, many treats - the kids received so

much chocolate from family and friends too that I think they are sick of it lol!

Now that the kiddies are going back to school, there is more time for scrapping!

Why not have a go at the challenges at Scrapbookit ?

Who doesn't love a good sketch?

Here is my take on it....

I have to apologise if the picture isn't too great. I've been having issues with

my laptop and have been forced to use our old dinosaur PC. The

graphics card is not the best so the pictures can look a little off.

The card challenge is pretty simple, just create a card with an Easter theme.

Here is my take on it......................

You have until the 14th of May to e-mail your entries to

joanne@scrapbookit.com

I'm in two minds about the kids going back to school tomorrow.

They want to go and see their friends ( except Emily, who refuses to go to pre-school - won't that be fun tomorrow morning!!)

I really enjoyed having them home again and will miss them :0(

Off to eat some of that forgotten chocolate lol!

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

Easter hats

2011-04-21T14:41:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone.

What a week it has been. While Miss Sophie is doing much better, the

troops have been falling down like dominoes!

The entire household has been sick with one ailment or another, here's

hoping the Easter long weekend is a good one!

We all need a bit of chocolate :0)

I have some pics to show you of the Easter hat parade!

This is kind of a big event at our school - some parents go nuts with

the Easter hats, but I let the kids decide what they want.

Here's Corey showing off his hat with one

of his little friends.

Dylan with his silly hat. It's a bit hard to tell, but it's supposed to be a rabbit

finding a carrot and being very pleased with his discovery,

he is giving the thumbs up lol! He cracks me up that kid - the hat was

so tall, it kept falling down over his face, I don't

know how he managed to keep the rabbit's head up!!

Emily, though it wasn't her Easter parade, had to have a hat as well!

It had to be pink, have flowers and butterflies - of course, she

trashed it before we even got out the door lol!

I think she fell on it twice and trampled it getting into the car.....

oh well, it's the thought that counts :0)

and Sophie.............

no Easter hat, sorry Soph, but she looks pretty cute anyway ;0)

I hope you all have a wonderful Easter!

May the Easter Bunny leave lots of treats for you all ;0)

Thanks for dropping by!

Monica

xoxo

An Update

2011-04-17T10:46:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone.

Sorry I have been absent these last few days.

As some of you know, Sophie was born a couple of months premature. She

has had a lot of respiratory problems since then and has been admitted to

hospital a couple of times.

She was admitted again on Friday with Bronchiolitis and we spent a couple

of days in the children's ward.

The good news is that we are home now and she is still, happy,

playful, smiling and feeding well.

She is home with some ventolin and we have put a vapouriser in her

room to help - it worked a treat last night

and she was able to have a more restful sleep.

We are hoping that she will get better soon. At least she is well

enough to be home but still, it feels like all we have done the past 12 months

is be in and out of hospitals.

I wish she could have a run of good health, not having to

go to Doctors or specialists or having to stay

in the hospital, but these kind of things are so common in premmies.

Hopefully as she grows and becomes stronger

she will not need specialist care so much and

can have a normal, healthy life.

I'll be back soon with some pics to share, but for now

I have a house to clean.... imagine Dad home alone with the kids.....

the place looks like a cyclone hit it lol@

Have a terrific Sunday everyone!!

Hugs

Monica

xoxo

A couple of shares

2011-04-12T12:01:00.000+10:00

Hi everyone.

I've been having computer problems again - is it just me...or do you

all feel like we are not in touch with the world

when we don't have an internet connection? lol!

It is amazing how much I rely on my laptop - whatever

did we do without the internet? lol!

I did have a couple of projects to share :0)

I completed this layout for the Kaisercraft newsletter

mix it up challenge.

I'm not sure exactly how the image looks - the graphics on the old

desktop PC aren't the best.....

Hopefully, it looks half decent lol!

Next up, I was inspired by this image ....

it is the inspiration challenge over at Scrap The Girls

As soon as I saw it, it reminded me of my eldest sister Adela!

She is the life of the party, always happy, always having fun so I scrapped

this layout of her with Emily being silly as per normal :0)

I'm so excited the school holidays are nearly here!

I'm so looking forward to having the boys at home - I'm sure

they will drive me crazy nonetheless, but still :0)

I hope you are all having a wonderful week.

Thanks for dropping by,

Monica

xoxo

Calling All Sassafras Lovers!!

2011-04-07T20:30:00.000+10:00

Are you a HUGE Sassafras Lass fan like me?

I adore their products and now you have the chance to win this...............

How can you win?

First, head on over to The new look Scrapbookit !!!

1. Send Jo a comment from the home page.

2. Head on over to the blog and become a follower

3. Share this giveaway on your blog/facebook page!

Pretty easy hu?

Good luck to everyone, this collection is amazing!

Hugs

Monica

xoxo

Another card

2011-04-06T10:20:00.000+10:00

Good morning all!

I have another little card to share with you all.

This time, I have played along at the

Magnolia Down Under Challenges.

The criteria is to use something metal........

here is my card

I've used a small metal flower underneath the sentiment and also

a metal photo corner.

I've use a sweet little Tilda from the

"Butterfly Dreams" collection and coloured her in

with Copic markers.

Thanks for popping in to my blog!

Off to Ikea to buy a highchair for Miss Sophie!!

Hugs

Monica

xoxo