Ghunibee Scraps

Make Tote Bags From Old Sheets

2010-04-23T10:38:00.000-07:00

This is such a clever idea!

Get the pattern Turn Your Old Sheets into A Tote Bag

Cheap and cheerful fun!!

I Am Back from UK Wedding Number One!

2009-08-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

Well UK wedding number one went VERY well and on my scribbles blog you can see the photographs.
Now I am concentrating on number two, my son's. As you know I was making my own fascinators, my daughter made me one for her wedding in the end (photo), but I am making one for the September wedding.

I was left a comment by Fascinator Maven, and she has some great pattern downloads for fascinators to make. There are some gorgeous ones to buy and she makes dolls too!

Look at her site and find this gorgeous patriotic doll kit for $8...YES $8 , there are lots of dolls to choose from. This one is described as:

America is a 22 inch cotton broadcloth jointed doll with a pencil drawn face and yarn hair. The pattern packet includes well illustrated, step by step instructions for the doll and all the clothes shown in this picture as well as underpanties and under slip. Her fingers can be bent to sign " I LOVE YOU" in American Sign Language.

I think you will love it so go and take a look.

Wedding Break!!!

2009-07-17T10:57:00.000-07:00

I am in the final stages of my son's wedding items, the invitations went down well.
I am writing a novel at the moment and I have a little more time to do so. It has been a pleasure to make the items for them. I can't wait until September to see the name cards on the table and the order of service booklets in church.

Well wedding number one has to happen first and that is my eldest daughter's. She changed her mind about wedding favours, and I did not get to make more of the boxes I wrote about on here. I am sure youngest daughter will be interested one day,(thank goodness she did not choose to marry this summer!).

Anyway, on the 25th is wedding number one is coming together. We are having a hen night, on 22nd, it is a bachelorette party in the US. We are going out for a meal and dancing, dressed in Moulin Rouge outfits.Theme colour is red and black.
I have made D1 a memory book for her.It has little things from my wedding inside too.

The picture lets it down, the contrast of the red and black really stands out.

I have finished wedding card no:1.

Inside the heart is a poem I wrote for her, you can read it on A Poet's Word.

I am going to be in the UK for the wedding and will not post for a couple of weeks. I will hopefully have some pics to share.

Jewelry Making

2009-07-09T09:11:00.000-07:00

Over at Cut out and Keep you can get the instructions for this great jewellery/jewelry set.

These are the colours I am wearing for my daughter's wedding on the 25th. I don't think I have time to make this though.

A great instruction video

Handicapped Dolls

2009-06-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

Check out Karen's Cottage. This lady makes dolls to match the handicap of a child should you so wish.
From one with deaf aids to a prosthetic limb. I had never thought of this before, but it seems a good idea to me.
She makes other types of dolls, they are gorgeous.

Free Digi Scrap Kits

2009-06-25T04:30:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous Free Digi Scrap Kit can be found over at SCRAP GIRLS

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This lovely kit is found at DIGITALS and is called Summer SmileZ

Gifts, Cross Stitch and Digiscrap

2009-06-22T09:58:00.000-07:00

On August 15th it is the religious festival of Mary The Madonna, in Southern Cyprus. The families take this day very seriously.
I have found some cross stitch patterns, gifts and digiscraps to make gifts for my Cypriot friends.

This one can be downloaded at payloadz for under $4
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Over at alitadesigns you can get a free pattern of this cross stitch.

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I think this one is my favourite.

Ebay
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I found these latex moulds/molds so I can make some plaster of paris ornaments, I will paint them and I know they will be appreciated by several of my elderly village friends.

Ebay
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These collage sheets are available at Lunagirls Esty shop

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I then came across this Ebay site for a CD of images all suitable for digital scrapbooking. There are many uses for the images off of this cd.

Award For My Blog~ Thank You

2009-06-12T04:16:00.000-07:00

Those lovely 3 ScrapBooking Ladies have given my blog an award! Thank You.
It is One Lovely Blog Award. I am thrilled to accept. They have a lovely blog and I love to pop in every now and then.

The rules for this one are:

1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.

2) Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

I'll narrow this down to less than 15 blogs, and here are my choices (in no particular order):

Leah @ Handmade bits and pieces

Ruthie@ Rose Works Jewelry

I know there is only 2 here but I am a little pushed for time as I am making wedding items still, 40 days until I go to the UK to marry off my eldest daughter. Although there are only 2, they are a great 2 blogs to visit, you won't be disappointed.

Father's Day Card and Fabric Sale

2009-06-08T06:22:00.000-07:00

For a simple Father's Day card I used a stripe paper, rafia cord to make a BBQ Apron with a dish-drying cloth and utensil handle. A foaming beer die cut with a few peel offs, on a plain card and it was completed in under 5 mins, at very little cost. I was rather pleased with the outcome and even more pleased that this one sold the minute it went into the shop and I have orders for 3 more in different colours.

Fabric Sale Info:

Jo-Ann Fabrics has an online sale, there are some fantastic fabrics and great prices, I love the one above, it is so summery.

The back pack bag in my previous post would look great made in this one, for a child.

Gift Patterns ~ Ideas~ Ideas~ Freebies (post 100)

2009-06-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

For my 100th post...

This vintage bag is so lovely! It would be ideal for a bride as the colours could be changed to suit. My daughter is having a vintage style wedding and if I could crochet, I would make this for her in Ivory with pale pink flower.
I think this would make a gorgeous Christmas gift too. The gold with a red and green flower would look lovely, you can then add a soap and hey presto, one lovely handmade gift.
The pattern is free and can be found at CRAFTBITS.COM

I know the summer is only just showing its head, but with the world budget hiding under the covers and refusing to come out, it is time to start on those handmade gifts. The art of giving and recieving is going to come back this year.

Stocking from McCall's

McCall's Free Patterns are in PDF format and are so easy to follow.

McCall's Patchwork Teddy & Scissors Case

This is a simple backpack pattern. These bags are so handy! I thought of all types of materials that could be used to make these and you could fill them with gifts. Nightdresses,Games etc. You could use Christmas material or everyday sorts.
The pattern is at ABOUT.COM

Over at MATERIALISTIC there is a 1/2 price fabric sale, so you could make some quite cheaply.

Simple Sewing Patterns

2009-05-31T05:07:00.000-07:00

(Oliver+S skirt)

I don't do a lot of sewing now, but when my girls were small I did run up some simple skirts and dresses for them. My boy had a pair of shorts once but I never made anymore than one pair, I like simple sewing patterns.
I used up an old dress of my mums once and made two skirts that lasted the girls two summers, a great bargain!

Here are a few free patterns for quick sewing projects.

Oliver+S has a simple skirt pattern for free download.

Free Craft Tutorials

2009-05-25T01:32:00.000-07:00

Free tutorials are always handy to have. I have learned so many new things thanks to the generosity of those who give free tutorials on the Internet.

Paper Flowers Tutorial

Stamping On Fabric

This is an amazing BLOG...Free tutorials on just about anything crafty!
There are links to hundreds of craft blogs and websites

Budget Busters & Recycling Ideas

2009-05-19T04:52:00.000-07:00

Luvinthemommyhood Blog has made a dress out of the body and pants out of the sleeves of a man's shirt...time to get the shirt off of his back and kit out the kiddies.
A wonderful budget buster!

If you want to see more fantastic makes that are great for the pocket, pop to MADE: TUTORIALS BLOG

Want fancy Flip Flops but can only afford the budget ones? Well here's a tip on how to fancy them up!! Flip Flops

On this site there is a pattern to make a child's coat out of a man's suit!

Amy Quarry has some inspirational photos of her recycling projects from old clothing.

I am going to buy some more budget, plain, thin strap tops for the summer and vamp them up with some of my gems from my craft room. I go through loads of these tops each year and the constant washing and dare I say ...sweating ruins them, I get fed up of paying a lot for the fancy ones and only end up wearing them for gardening the following year. I tried it with one and it was
ok.

I use a waterproof glue, the one I found over here is- Aleene's Ok to wash it
On the Internet I found it HERE

Free Digiscraps

2009-05-17T01:09:00.000-07:00

June @ Cen's Loft has made a cute Mary, Mary kit and it is free for downloading. Take some time to browse through this blog as there are lots of freebies and some amazingly funny stories about June's life...a whirlwind of fun is that lady!

Kim over at Simply Sweet Designs has this gorgeous free QP and she has a sale on in her store until 23rd May.

If you haven't come across it yet, DigiFree is packed with freebie kits etc.

Shabby Princess has some cute kits for downloading

Crafty Shopper!

2009-05-14T04:56:00.000-07:00

Fascinators and Craft shopping =Getting sidetracked!

Create -n -Celebrate

It is now time to consider making my fascinator for my son's wedding in September. My daughter, Nicola is getting married in July and she made me a pink one for Mother's Day, so I am one down, one to go. I have been looking for Marabou Feathers and Create-n - Celebrate have a lovely range.
Me being me, go side tracked and I just had to look at what else they had...well I was not disappointed, they have loads of goodies!

These Victoriana style charms are lovely, I was thinking shoe buckles or pop a diamante in the centre and a brooch pin at the back, ideal decoration for a dress.
I am a sucker for a bargain, so had to look at the clearance section! They have a tips section with some great card ideas too.

Okay, let's be off to search for my fascinator items:

I have found a free and simple pattern from Simplicity Patterns. I am not sure if I will follow it or do my own, but I do like the style, so am pondering with it.

Then the crafter stopped looking and the Writer in me spotted something at Feather.com.au

Hold on! It does prove I was looking for feathers!! The funny thing is that both weddings are using these colours, so maybe, I should treat myself as a momento of their day, does that make me a crafty shopper? *WIDE GRIN*

Learn How to...

2009-05-08T04:50:00.000-07:00

Well the wedding invitations I made landed in the UK and my future daughter inlaw loves them..phew. I now have to learn how to make tent fold place names with writing on both sides :{
I have microsoft publisher but am struggling, so the time I was going to have to learn something new is going to be spent learning how to make place cards and not the gorgeous things I found on the Internet!! Oh well, you have fun and I will catch up later.

Some new projects to learn how to make. I love the flower arrangement.

Learn to make this gorgeous flower arrangement (ideal for weddings)

Learn Decoupage

Learn to Applique

Free Craft Patterns and Coupons

2009-04-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

Grandmother's Bouquet

This free Cross stitch Pattern can be found at Free Cross Stitch Online

The pattern for this no sewing sweater can be found at Knitting Pattern Central

For all you jewellry makers out there, this stand has a free pattern, it is ideal for those of you who need to make displays. It is found at Kidsaction

This blog has regular craft coupons.

http://www.mycraftcoupons.com/

I am looking for free, quick wedding cross stitch patterns, so if you see any please let me know.

Recycling Craft Ideas

2009-04-24T23:18:00.000-07:00

In the days of financial crisis, recycling is going to become a way of life for many who have never even thought of the idea.
In the Cyprus sun the weather makes plastic pegs brittle and the wooden ones get black. I had a few lying around holding bits of paper as clips and bag seals etc. After a while I hated looking at them and threw them away.

I then decided a good way of recycling them and keeping my eye happy was to brighten them up. I had odd pieces of ribbon lying around from chocolate boxes etc and covered the pegs with them.
Come Christmas time I decided they were great to have on the tree holding decorations and I also added a little magnet from a broken fridge magnet and made a Christmassy note holder.

Now I know it is a bit early for Christmas, but there are birthdays and celebrations to be had before then.
A brown paper bag can be transformed into a quick gift bag.

So that is how I use up my old clothing pegs using my craft scraps. I now don't have to think very hard about little gift ideas either. I have painted them and then rubbed transfers on for my friends to use in their offices, they love them and of course they are free.

Free Bridal Wedding Craft Patterns

2009-04-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

How cute is this little bag and the flowers! The FREE patterns comes courtesy of Sewing.Org

Earrings~ Free Instruction Pattern

2009-04-20T11:12:00.000-07:00

Alyssa's Bridesmaid Earrings

For instructions on how to make these gorgeous earrings and buy the kit.

These are all the colours I have been looking for to wear as Mother of the Bride, I wanted pearls and Amathyst to match a ring I have. These are just the thing!

Charity Digiscrap Kit ~ Autism

2009-04-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

I am fundraising for my daughter who runs for charity ( see my blog write up) so I tend to look at other blogs who are doing the same, I have come across a fantastic kit, it is for Autism ( Read the Blog Story Here)

Pieces of Hope is a mega Charity Kit to benefit the National Autism Association! With 91 papers, 161 elements, 12 Quick Pages and 10 brag book pages you are sure to find many uses for this fun and versatile kit!

Contributing Designers:Kathryn Estry, Glenda Ketchum, Amanda Thorderson, Lifesong Creations, Shawn Walter, Jen Maceyunas, Joyce de Jonge, Alessandra Designs, Cindy Ritter, Dreamer Paula, Beth Rimmer, Nini's Notions, Sarah Meyer, Judith Blanchard, doinDigital

Special thanks to the creative and talented ladies who helped create this kit and made quick pages and brag book pages to go with it!

Proceeds will go to the National Autism Association.

Craft Bargains!

2009-04-15T01:31:00.000-07:00

Hi again, I dropped by to show my face, I can't stay away from my blogs for very long!

Today I have been looking around for bargains and there are some to be had out there at the moment.

I love a bargain, my daughter's copy my love of a good buy. Nicola got her wedding ring, vintage style shoes and diamond earrings all at bargain prices, just as well because the wedding dress was VERY full price! LOL

This is not craft I know, but it is a lovely bag for free and would hold craft items, sadly I will not be able to claim one, but I am sure someone will...
FREE BAG INFO
(I know, I got sidetracked..again!)

Bargains:

Erica's Craft has 40% off fabrics and there are some gorgeous ones on offer.

There are also some fantastic Cross Stitch kit bargains there too!

This one was $34.99 and now is $17.50
That is a brilliant Christmas gift for a stitcher and such a bargain. It is so pretty and the prayer is a favourite of mine.

Having a Breather

2009-04-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

Don't give up on me...please, I am at a crucial point of the wedding craft preparations and need all the time I have.

I'll be back

Free Card Making / Craft Papers

2009-03-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

I took a break for a day from making the wedding invitations for my children and had some 'me' time, card making.
It was so lovely getting back to different colours and ribbon, after 100 of the same it gets too you a little and you go stir crazy.

In the present financial climate free papers are gratefully received, I have found two places to get some goodies, they have some lovely papers to download.

Card-making-wo rld.com

Activity Village.co.uk

Crafty Vacations!

2009-03-21T10:41:00.000-07:00

Now I live in Cyprus and have escaped the rat race, I get up daily and count my blessings. While I was in our craft store in Paphos, I met two ladies who had rented a friend's apartment and were having a crafting holiday together for 10days.
They were having a great time, they were able to leave their work out and not fear children would ruin it. I suggested the idea to friends of mine who have a fantastic B&B, artists would love it there.
I was intrigued and look around to see what sort of crafty vacation I would take if I didn't live here.
I was suprised by the choices, here are a few I found;

Jewellry making and workshops in France
Wine, french bread and a new hobby...mmmm tempting

Lilac Barn Craft Courses

Feeling creative? We've some suggestions for you....

	Give a new lease of life to that well-loved chair
	Create your own patchwork quilt - it's amazing how quickly they grow....
	Take a course in oil painting or life drawing
	Loose covers expensive? Make one yourself
	Curtains and Blinds..make them professionally

Enjoy a residential course at Lilac Barn in Somerset, by the side of the lovely River Parrett amid the Somerset Levels. Combine a holiday break with learning something a new skill!

I would need a month here, they have loads to choose from!!

Lunenburg Seaside Craft School

Sand, Sea and ...Shibori (Japanese Art of Fabric Dyeing)

The term shibori describes and applies to a variety of ways of manipulating cloth, then dyeing it to produce amazing patterns. In this workshop students will experiment with combining simple techniques of folding, clamping, stitching and binding to make exciting "resist" patterns on fabric. The completely original fabric that results from this process can be put to limitless uses including clothing, home accessories, quilt making and wall hangings.

Another Blog Helped Me Out!! Sheila @3 Scrapbooking Ladies..Thanks

2009-03-17T07:40:00.000-07:00

With the two weddings in the summer, a financial crisis and one bridegroom to be laid off sick for several months, cash is...well tight.

I decided that after the invitations are made, I would help out and make wedding favours for them or send my FSin Law instructions and he can use his sick time usefully LOL

Neither bride wants tulle and almonds...okay that's the easy option gone!

One bride is having Cadbury's chocolate Purple for her colours. This is good, I can use the Quality street sweets that are in purple wrappers or heart shape chocolates in foil.

My daughter is having Emerald green colours and the quality street triangles are just right too!!

As I was looking at 3 Scrapbooking Ladies Blog, low and behold was the answer to my problem!!

Sheila has made some gift boxes from cardstock and all the instructions are there!
I contacted my daughter and son, both parties like the idea so...

Thank You to another blog for helping me out :)

Handbag Patterns...Free!

2009-03-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

Ok the hunt for wedding bags is on, and as usual I have gotten sidetracked, I found free patterns for all sorts!!
Here you go, I thought I would share with you my findings:

Henriettas Handbags

Make an amazing bag from chip/crisp packets!!!! Mylinda Agler has got an incredible assortment of bags that she has made on her site.

Find the pattern for this bright and cheerful ' Blossie Bag
@ Bloom and Blossom

This is my favourite, the pdf file for the pattern can be found at uhandbag blog

Hair Fascinators for My Children's Weddings

2009-03-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

As some of you know, 2 of my 3 children are getting married 6 weeks apart, July 25th and Sept 12th. We are flying back to the UK for both.
My outfits are hanging in the closet, they are easy to transport in a suit case and I now need to find the fascinators to go with them, I am not a hat person.
I have been looking at the prices of some and well ...LOL LOL LOL and so me being me said..." I will make my own"...before you ask...NO I have not made one before!
I have a comb, some beads and thread, a couple of feathers and I am sure I can make one, was my parting comment to my friends.
The beads are still showing up around the room, the cat loved playing with the feathers and the twine is holding up the plants in the garden.
Never to be beaten, I have decided to look for tutorials and am sharing my finds with you.

Fascinator Guide @ 2threads

Burdastyle

Alternatively, does anyone know any good sites to buy one????????? ;0

Fairy Freebies

2009-03-09T08:19:00.000-07:00

Woodland Fairies Quilt Pattern

Yiotas XStitch

The Knitting Fairy Free Patterns for a variety of items

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

2009-03-07T23:41:00.000-08:00

To all the ladies who visit from around the world, Happy International Women's Day from Cyprus.
The ladies are given a flower in some of the stores today but as they close Sundays here, it was yesterday.

Getting Ready for Easter in Cyprus plus Freebies

2009-03-04T10:57:00.000-08:00

Here in Cyprus it is the start of the lead up to Easter. Easter is bigger than Christmas in the Greek Orthodox religion and the strict 50 days of fasting has started. Every house (including mine), will be stripped out, spring cleaned and repainted, we find we have gotten into the habit now the same as the villagers. The winter dust storms will be over and we will clear the way for the warm weather again. The homes are decorated with spring items and Easter decorations, the same as at Christmas. The Bunny above is a typical decoration that will greet many a visitor.

At Easter I like to make my Cypriot friends something special and different so I have been searching the Internet for freebies to inspire me. I have found some new sites for my projects and am sharing them with you.

Moms Break Free Printables
Lots of Free Stuff to print off!!

HOUSE OF LIME
Free Digiscrap Elements

This GORGEOUS Faberge Bunny is a free pdf file pattern at Joann.com

Something for the Boys

2009-02-27T23:45:00.000-08:00

I have been asked to babysit for a Star Wars fan who loves colouring, so I scoured the Internet and came across
Star Wars Colouring Pictures

I will download a few to keep the little guy happy! Oh and quiet LOL

3 Scrapbooking Ladies are having a Sale!!

2009-02-24T09:42:00.000-08:00

3 Scrapbooking Ladies are having a Sale!!

Look at this cutey ready for Easter

As if their blog isn't packed enough with goodies, check out their Ebay goodies!

3 Bees Craft Sale on Ebay...Grab a Bargain!

Pinwheel Bow Video

2009-02-24T04:16:00.000-08:00

This is a handy video I found it at Girly Things Bows

Time for Exercise on a Craft Blog???!!

2009-02-19T10:37:00.000-08:00

I came across a little workout for all you Stitchers out there!!
It isn't hard work honestly...

YOGA FOR STITCHERS

Now when I have untangled my legs, uncrossed my arms...

Awarded for Being Passionate!!

2009-02-16T09:49:00.000-08:00

Polly at Angels in My Garden has awarded me The Passionate Blogger Award.
I have to tell you 5 things I am passionate about and pass it on.

I am passionate about my Family
I am passionate about Blogging
I am passionate about Chocolate
I am passionate about Writing
I am passionate...

So now I pass it onto 5 blogs : I decided to offer you a mixed bag to go and see why I awarded them The Passionate Blogger, some are new to blogging but really got stuck in and others are years down the road...go enjoy what they offer!!

Milly @ FEAR OF WRITING

Christy @ CHRISTY'S HOME DECORATING

Icy @ WONDERING THOUGHTS

Charlie @ WOT'S UP TODAY

lanne @ CROCODILE SOUP FOR THE SOUL

See you soon with more goodies!

Hectic Life and Teddy Bear

2009-02-14T03:52:00.000-08:00

Gosh it has been nearly a week since I updated here. The wedding invitations and order of service cards are taking over my life, but I think my DS and F D in law will be pleased with them. Then I have to sort out the ribbons on my daughter's and I should start to get a life of my own, and back to caring for 4 blogs, writing poetry again, (my next project is to set up a poetry site of my own) mmm, will it happen? Roll on April then I can had them all over!
Anyway, I eat, sleep and dream, purple, Ivory and lilac...soon it will be Emerald green and Ivory. I look out of the window and smile at the pink almond blossom coming out, it does break up my psychodelic mind at the moment!
The ladies in Cyprus sit and chatter, some sit a crochet or make lace items. I have always said, after picking olives, bashing them and preparing them, baking traditional bread in the stone ovens and learning to dance the Cypriot way, I would learn to crochet...mmm another maybe!!
Well I have found a free crochet pattern for a Teddy bear from Lion Brand

I don't like the dark brown, but I might try and make a pink one, well after I have cross stitched 2 wedding keepsakes! The pattern is for beginners, so there is hope for one of my projects...please do not hold your breath !!!

A Little ScrapBird Told Me....

2009-02-08T06:16:00.000-08:00

Jaya at JayaPrem's Hangout has a new store! It is called ScrapBird

And look at this...

Make Dolls With These Free Patterns

2009-02-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

Free Baby Doll Pattern ( 8 inch)

This Amazing Kimono Doll is not supposed to be hard to make...mmmm

How To Make Kimono Doll

Have Fun!!

Who Loves Vintage?

2009-02-03T03:30:00.000-08:00

My eldest daughter is getting married in July and her wedding dress and shoes have a vintage style. She loves vintage and so something of a theme is appearing.
With us being miles apart, the Internet keeps me in touch with the plans and we share ideas.

I naturally look about for vintage bits and pieces, and during my web browsing I came across:
Victorian Dolls, Victorian Traditions, The Victorian Era and Me

Well who wouldn't be sidetracked...
Anyway, this blog is full of interesting facts and crafty bits, so pop the kettle on and have a browse.

I then found vintage doll patterns at Old Dolls...sigh I wish I could sew.

And then I found Cloth Doll Patterns, it has a wonderful article and pictures on vintage dolls
The image in this article is from their site. They have patterns too!!

Shabby Princess has a digiscrap kit Vintage Florals
Don't you just love this Victorian Vintage Tag Box from Beckysscraps

Go and have a look, it is such a treat to go back in time.

Busy today sorry

2009-02-02T04:10:00.000-08:00

I am really pushed for time today so I apologise to all Entrecard friends for not dropping by.

I am putting a link to my other blog so you can see what happened to my daughter in the UK snow.

Scribbles

Who I found through Entrecard and an Award!

2009-02-01T05:17:00.000-08:00

I am finding lots of new creative sites, thanks to entrecard. I try and drop in as many sites as I can. I have found jewelry/jewellry makers, bead makers, knitters, doll lovers, stitchers of every kind, digi scrappers, paper scrappers, glass lovers, oh so many wonderful sites!!

Grandmother's Pattern Book is one of a few blogs that belong to Karen. They are all worthy of a look see!!

Penny-wise Knitting Fun and relaxed blog

Lennox Knits Fun and relaxed blog

Creative Cafe houses a mass of clever folk!

Cen's Loft my friend June is an Entrecarder, and do you know, until I heard of it and was clicking through the listings, I didn't know! I had probably seen the widget but not taken any notice until I became one myself!

I am so busy making the wedding invitations and order of service cards (300+ items), for two of my children who are getting married in the summer, I sometimes wish for 30 hours in a day!

I did get an award from Polly at Angels in my Garden, though.

The award is presented to blogger's who display consistency in any one or a combinations:

1.The blogger manifests exemplary attitude, respecting the nuances that pervades amongst different cultures and beliefs.

2.The blog contents inspire; strives to encourage and offers solutions.

3.There is a clear purpose at the blog; one that fosters a better understanding on Social, Political, Economics, the Arts, Culture and Sciences and Beliefs.

4.The blog is refreshing and creative.

5.The blogger promotes friendship and positive thinking.

The blogger who receives this award will need to perform the following steps:

Create a post with a mention and a link to the person who presented the Noblesse Oblige Award.
The award conditions must be displayed at the post.
Write a short article about what the blog has thus far achieved - preferably citing one or more older posts to support.
The blogger must present the Noblesse Oblige Award in concurrence with the award conditions.
The blogger must display the award at any location on the blog.

Well rather a tall order, I think I fall in the creative, supportive slot as Polly was going to throw in the towel on her blog and I told her NO, you can do this blogging thingy, and boy can she!!
And well I am running a creative blog :)

This blog is growing and so is Polly's...I can think of nothing more to say,except Thank You.

The Art of Kusudama

2009-01-31T03:56:00.000-08:00

I had to share with you this article!

Kusudama is a traditional Japanese art form that has evolved into what is now generally referred to as modular origami. To the untrained eye, the difference may seem negligible. With some remarkable examples, here is the basic difference between the two. (Taken from the article)

View the whole article by R J Evans

There are some more lovely pics too!

Freebies!!

2009-01-30T11:03:00.000-08:00

I came across this lovely teddy at Alita's Designs and stitched him, well who could resist??!!
He would be ideal for a new born gift, change the flower colours to pink. Change them to yellow and you have a get well wish to treasure.

Gorgeous Teddy Bear Free Cross Stitch Pattern

My Finished Teddy

Buckler's Craft Fairs

Rusty Barn ~ Quilt, Craft and Sewing Shows 2009

Sugarloaf Craft Festivals Discounts and Free Vouchers

Johnson Crafts UK

Challenge and awards!

2009-01-29T23:48:00.000-08:00

Polly at Angels in my Garden gave me an award, she has a lovely blog and is a lovely friend. Go follow her!

The Lemonade Award is for sites that show gratitude and a wonderful attitude! How great to be included. Thank you so much.
The rules of this award are as follows:

1.Put the logo on your blog or post.
2.Nominate at least 10 blogs that show attitude and/or gratitude.
3.Be sure to link to your nominees within your post.
4.Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on a post.
5.Nominate your favorites and link to this blog.

I will award it to one today, as we had storms and no power I am catching up and rather busy.

So today I award :

Jaya at Jayaprem's Hangout sent me a totally different style of challenge.
I have to go to my photographs, open the 6th folder and find the 6th picture and post it here.
So here goes:

Not very exciting! It is the orange moon rising above my house.

Again I am a little busy but will get there in the end and move the challenge on. Thanks Jaya!
Jaya has a lovely blog, go an follow and have fun!!

Free Doll Patterns

2009-01-29T09:03:00.000-08:00

I found a collection of free patterns for small dolls at Melodies Plus

Free Doll Patterns

There are lots to make, they are lovely for using up scraps!

A Wonderful Place for free Craft Patterns

2009-01-28T12:58:00.000-08:00

I have found a great site for free patterns for so many craft goodies.
It is full of wonderful ideas.

Go and have fun at

Craft & Fabric Links

It is not my Birthday but...

2009-01-25T08:13:00.000-08:00

Well, what do you know?!

I have been given a Birthday Wish award twice! and it isn't even my birthday! It came from Polly @ Angels in My Garden and Loribeth at Artistic Romance

Of course, there are rules to go along with the award which are:

1. Post the image of this award.

2. Make a list of what you want on your birthday.

3. The list should be 15 wishes

4. Give it to 10 friends of yours.

I think 10 are a lot to do at this present time and will wait a while as I have tagged and awarded a lot lately. I will however send it later on a birthday.

My wishes are:

For sun on my daughter's wedding day in July
For sun on my son's wedding day in September
For my youngest daughter to have a good year for a change
For my dad (altzheimers) to cope when he has to go into care to give mum a rest
For mum's rare lung disease to take her peacefully when the time comes
For my writing to improve
For the wedding items I am making turn out perfect each time
For the poem I have to write and recite, to be word perfect
For the world finances to recover asap
For my future son in law and family to come to terms with his father's death and know he will be with us all on the day
For all my friends to have happy lives
For my son to enjoy his life in Canada
For my future daughter in law to pass the exams required
For continuing good health
For another 30yrs of marriage

There and I thought I did'nt want anything!

Turn Old Sheets into Tote Bags

2009-01-25T06:22:00.000-08:00

This is such a clever idea!

Get the pattern Turn Your Old Sheets into A Tote Bag

Cheap and cheerful fun!!

Such a Cheap Pretty Idea for Crafters!

2009-01-25T04:34:00.000-08:00

This is such a clever way of using free items from the hardware store!
Gather up the free paint chip cards / Paint swatch charts and make this pretty card base or topper!

Here are the Instructions of how to remove the writing and make this pretty item

Such a clever idea and so cheap.

Make a Rosette Maker in Under Five Minutes

2009-01-24T07:03:00.001-08:00

You will need:

Cork
Needle
Thread
Needle Threader
Ribbon
Non Slip Item/Bluetack

Put the cork onto the non -slip item
Push the needle into the cork

Place ribbon over the needle as in picture below

Keep Looping ribbon until you get the rosette effect you desire

This is the fiddly bit

Thread the needle and tie a knot in the end of the thread.
Carefully lift the looped ribbon up the shaft of the needle and slide it carefully onto thread.
Pull the needle out of the cork and secure the rosette with a couple of stitches.

The end results

A yellow thread against red ribbon gives the effect of a poinsetta flower, ideal for card toppers at Christmas.

Changes on Ghunibee Scraps!!

2009-01-21T11:22:00.000-08:00

I am going to open this blog out a bit and expand it to card making and cross stitch (my other hobbies) as well as scrapping.
So Ghunibee Scraps is going to be a little crafty blog.

I have an Ellison Big shot cutter machine, mine is blue and black, but I realllllyyyy wish it was the pink!
I found this great tip on using brass templates and my machine.

I came across this site for die cutters too, The Die Cut House.

To see some of my earlier efforts here is a link to my craft room an old page on my website (Cyprus Smy Home)

If you know others who will enjoy a mention here, let me know.

I Have An Award!!

2009-01-20T06:55:00.001-08:00

My award from Kyra

I have met, through Scrapping a very supportive friend, Kyra she has a lovely blog and works hard at its upkeep. She tirelessly adds freebie links, daily and her bubbly personality shines through her bright blog.

The rules are: Nominate 5 blogs who 'care about others'.

I shall stick with 2 Scrapbook Blogs and nominate:

June my friend at Cen's Loft

June has been nursing her mother and still found time for her Scrapping friends!

Melissa at Senitmental Scraps has been without a computer for quite awhile now, (it died) and she still manages to think of us and uses the library to keep in touch!

JayaPrem Needs You!!!

2009-01-20T06:44:00.001-08:00

Jaya is looking for a creative team to join her click on the picture to get to see her ad!! Go on get creative!!

How Beautiful is This Freebie?!

2009-01-19T00:16:00.000-08:00

CJS Creations as you know is one of my fave places to visit. I am never disappointed here. Today I found something beautiful, simple and beautiful.

This is one of the two freebies, yes freebies!

Beautiful Freebie

I am going to have fun putting my two kids wedding pics in them (they marry July and September).

Sale on Digiscrapbook Kits

2009-01-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

JayaPrem is having a sale on her kits starting from today (my DH birthday). It is to celebrate her husband's birthday.

Jaya's Sale

Dollar Day Sale! Kits for $1

2009-01-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

Dollar Day scrap kits get your kits for $1

Friends ~ 4 U Cheryl

2009-01-10T11:49:00.000-08:00

I was recently introduced to a kindred spirit via StumbleUpon.
Her name is Cheryl, each day she sends me an interesting site to view or a lovely message for the day in the form of a photograph.
Now Cheryl has a face every photographer would want to view, I felt that I wanted to give her a gift but being half way across the world and a new friendship, what does one do?

You scrap their photograph and send them the page! Yes that is my idea, but, one problem, how do I give it to her?

(Click on Picture for a larger view)

Now this photograph is 'stolen' from her stumble blog and I might have to remove this, as I have not got her permission, but for a moment while I send it to her, I will have to go public.

In Cheryl's words each day ~ 4 U x

Want to feel the Spring? Want Spring in your life?

2009-01-08T11:09:00.001-08:00

CJS Creations have done it again folks!

Stunning design

I wish it was Spring is the link to your desire!!

New Year Greetings

2008-12-28T00:49:00.000-08:00

This page was made using the kit Carol at CJS creations made using my challenge scraps.

3 things about me:

I am an expat Brit in the UK

I like Christmas

I wrote a poetry book.

This year has seen a lot going on in my life. I sold my poetry books in UK, Cyprus and to my amazement the USA. I have relatives and friends in the first 2 countries but the USA, 2 people found my book and bought it. I take claim of being an International seller now! LOL
2009 will be a busy one for me with 2 children getting married, 6 weeks apart in the UK. My card making hobby became a small business, supplying 2 shops. I have had written work published and get paid for it. The credit crunch hit us hard, as here in Cyprus we changed to the Euro and then that slumped against the UK £, yes our savings are in the UK £, and now the euro and £ are equal, everything is more expensive, we will have to tighten our belts, but my writing is paying for my Digikits, so I am happy.
2008 is ending on a very sad note.
My daughter's future Father in Law, Barry lost his fight against cancer on the 12th December, I was visiting her to buy her wedding dress at the time, it was a sad day for all, he is to be cremated on the 30th, Christmas was not celebrated in their home, sadness fell on this day as you can imagine and all wedding planning put on hold, I cannot afford to return before the wedding, so am glad most of it is already organised.
I then got a telephone call to say my friend Colin, had died of a heart attack, aged 51. If you look further down my blog, you will see a tribute to my best friend Angie. Colin, Angie and I grew up together, we were childhood friends, Colin took me to my first dance and gave me my first kiss when we were 14 years old. We grew up and married, now I am the only one left out of our trio of friends. He is being cremated the same day as Barry, sadly I will not be there to pay my respects but all who are attending both funerals are in my heart.
My son Darren emigrated to Vancouver and I was worried about him being alone at Christmas, silly me, someone he met at work took him in and he had a great time, although he said they don't appear to have the traditional Christmas pudding, so his fiance Viv is taking one to him in February when she visits.
2009 will be welcomed into my home, I am having a small party, well my door is open to anyone actually, but we will see the New Year in and celebrate what others cannot.
I Wish You All A Happy New Year and will stop waffling now!

Christmas Freebies

2008-11-21T05:22:00.000-08:00

Kyra at With a Russian/ Dutch Heart has some lovely freebie Christmas kits for us. I love the Angel one she has made, she called it Messengers of Joy.

There is also the Holly Jolly Express to look forward to on 15th December, there are so many stops at scrapper's blog sites that you just have to go and have a look!

My Mother in law's first Christmas Stocking (RIP Mum x)

My Son

2008-11-17T13:40:00.000-08:00

I played with PSE6, I love what you can do to photographs
Darren is now preparing for Canada, Good Luck Son x

Christmas is Coming

2008-11-15T07:48:00.000-08:00

Donut wishes you:

Kalla Krystuenna (Greek)
Happy Christmas

We are now starting to get Christmas items here in Cyprus and the trimming of the towns and villages has begun. Christmas is the main holiday for the ex pats and the second holiday for the Cypriots (Easter is their big celebration).
I am returning to the UK for 2 weeks at the end of November and I am sure to see a lot of Christmas goodies to bring back with me, I will have to remember DH isn't there to lift the case (s) off of the conveyer belt.

Meet The Kids

2008-11-09T00:58:00.000-08:00

I used the background paper from Carol's Cyprus Beauty kit she created from my challenge photographs and played with PSE6, to get a photograph of my three children together. I am practising hard as Darren and Nicola both get married in 2009 and Em is to be Matron of Honour for Nic, I want to create something special then.
Darren (eldest) & Nicola (eldest daughter) are on the top and Emma is the baby at the bottom.

My Award!

2008-11-06T09:35:00.000-08:00

Gosh a kit made from my photograph play around challenge and an award, what a day. The donkey and postman made it up the hill and my birthday presents from my kids in UK arrived today, gorgeous presents, gorgeous kids.
Well my award comes from June at Cen's Loft, on receipt I have to tell you 6 things I love and then pass it on to 6 people.

1. I love my life and family
2. I love making new friends and treasure my old ones
3. I love having time to enjoy my new life in Cyprus
4. I love writing poetry
5. I love Nutella, Chocolate, Chocolate and Nutella, oh and Chocolate
6. I love Digital Scrapbooking and meeting new scrappers

Now I have a dilemma, I am only just getting to know Kreative Folk out there so I will not be able to get to 6 but I nominate the following blogs I follow, their creators have been generous, entertaining, create love and warmth regularly.

Carol at CJS Creations Thanks for the Challenge Kit! Generous and Clever

Kyra at With a Russian/Dutch Heart Thanks for pointing out the Freebies!

Dayna at Scottie Acres This lady has style, I love her wordless Wednesdays

Melissa at Sentimental Style Generous, Clever and makes me smile

The First Challenge Kit Has Arrived!

2008-11-06T00:58:00.003-08:00

I am thrilled to present the first challenge kit:

I cannot believe this is created from my photographs ! If you want to download this it was created by the very talented Carol at CJS CREATIONS
Thank You Carol for joining in the fun!

My First Challenge

2008-11-05T01:11:00.000-08:00

Autumn has arrived in Cyprus and the colours are wonderful, I have been out with my camera and taken a few photographs and played around with them using PSE6. I have decided to give them to whoever wants to use them for kits, but, I want to see what you have done with them. So if you want to send me a link to your new CYPRUS BEAUTY layout (or whatever you want to call it) please do so. You can use just the colours or the whole thing, make bows, buttons or whatever you clever things do...have fun!

Sunset Glow

Autumn Hills

Cyprus Storm

Terracotta Island

Cyprus Sky in November

Vineyard leaves in Fall / Autumn

My Friend Returns ~ with Goodies!

2008-11-04T10:04:00.000-08:00

Well my birthday celebrations will carry onto next weekend, as if a meal out plus a BBq laid on for me wasn't enough, friends (9) will join DH and me at a Taverna in the hills, we like to get away from the tourist spots and go native.
I have missed my friend June at Cen's Loft, she has only been away from her blog a week so it proves I have to have a fix of her humour (English) and see what new things she is showing us on a daily basis.
I love her new kit! Wee Willie Winkie and guess what??!! Yes it is a freebie!

June also has a challenge for us so what are you waiting for?!

My First ~~~Paper??

2008-10-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Scribbled Blossom

Not sure what you'd call it, but I am calling it my first paper. I played with layers on PSE6 and this is the result. I do have a problem, I make them too big! Any advice? I was given some but that not working ;(

Treated Myself ~ $1 Dollar Kits!!

2008-10-29T08:54:00.000-07:00

Well the bank holiday saw a miracle, it rained! Now in the UK I would have been upset but here in Cyprus it is soooooo needed. The villages celebrated and my friends restaurant was the busiest ever, I love seeing people happy in the rain. The temperature has dropped now and our evenings have gone, my card making has been organised and I am getting ready for the winter months, I found Delicious Scraps today and am so thrilled I did.
Friday is my birthday so I thought I would treat myself to a little something, with 2 kids getting married and the economic situation, plus the fact I am having 2weeks in the UK in a month means that it had to be a little treat, wow was I lucky!
Today Delicious Scraps had a $1 dollar sale, I spent $3 and feel good. I know when I have finished making 200 + wedding items for my son and daughter I will get stuck into more scrapping, I love it. The site has some fantastic kits for sale, go look!
One of my bargains!!

Found some more Freebies!

2008-10-28T00:31:00.000-07:00

Freebies are generous gifts from designers and scrappers alike, today I will point you in the direction of some of the generous folk out there! One day maybe I will learn how but please don't hold your breath!

Simply Sweet Designs

Kevin and Amanda

Twin Moms Scraps
I love the colours of this kit!!!

Twin Moms also has Pink Awareness Ribbon Kit for sale

Get your Award~Here~

2008-10-24T13:00:00.000-07:00

This is the ' G' award for those who made me smile. Glynis ~ Thank You~ If you are awarded this just copy and pop onto your blog, you deserve it!

I designed this award with the intention of passing it onto those who have made me smile or something in their blog has brightened my day:

This month the award goes to:

Christy Tuller at Creativity in Writing

Loribeth at Loribeth's Artistic Romance

Lizzie at Words to the Wise

RJ at Webphemera

Liljatr at Scrap -alot

My Dad

2008-10-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have an old photograph of my father taken 53yrs ago, Dad has Altzhiemers and his recall of his days onboard ship are very clear. He was silver service steward to Glynis Johns....I am called Glynis Joan.
I have been playing around with layers and still learning PSE 7 and this is my result.

I love the effect it gives without taking away dad sitting on deck.

Playing Again!

2008-10-22T10:41:00.000-07:00

At Scrapbook Flair I found a photography challenge and just had to play with the pics I took this week. I used PSE 7.
With all the rotten news in the world I felt a bit of colour in my life was needed!

My Friendship Award from Jaya!!

2008-10-21T08:37:00.000-07:00

I am so thrilled, Jaya has awarded me my first award. It is a friendship award called the Proximidade, it is an award for those friends around the world who has a blog that has given you
pleasure and it offers the hand of friendship.

I will pass it onto:

June at Cen's Loft ( without her I would not be a digiscrapper) and I enjoy her blog and treasure her friendship

Cinderelly at Cinderelly's corner, I enjoy her blog and generosity

Lorie at Digiscrap by Lorie, I enjoy her blog and generosity

Kimberley at Kreationsbykimberleyrae, I enjoy her blog and generosity

Kim at Simply Sweet Designs, I love to pop in and see her niece's picture!

So ladies my gift of friendship passes to you

Me and My Boy

2008-10-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

I found a happy picture of my son and me, he came to visit us in Cyprus. I love the colour in June's Little Darling Kit (Cen's Loft) and the words of JennGigowski a little boyish word art.

Grandparents in Scrap

2008-10-18T12:41:00.000-07:00

I found some old Bw photos of my paternal grandparents and found this freebie kit plum passion at Sentimental Style I don't know why but it reminded me of Nan & Granddad.
I used a text square (journaling squares) from sw ( I apologise, I cannot remember where I downloaded this but as soon as I find out I will put the link here).
I had fun playing with layering to get the result you can see.

New Finds -Pickleberrypop Word Art and Tags

2008-10-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

Pickleberrypop is where you can get these great word art kits

These Tiny Tags are fantastic!

I am still playing around with PSE6, it is hard but fun, I hope to have a result of my work here soon, I have to settle down to one kit and one photograph, I keep playing with too many at once and get confused.

I Have Bought My Birthday Present!!

2008-10-15T00:30:00.000-07:00

Dh couldn't think of what to buy me for my birthday, and in view of the fact that we lost a fair wack of cash in the crisis, I said don't bother. Bless him, he can't cope with that, so I said I would like to download P~S~E 6, I tried others but this copes with my brain cell a little better.
I will be adding my work soon as when June at Cen's loft was away, I bought some of her kits because as you may of guessed by now, I am a fan. Well this is one of the kits I bought, and it is now a freebie on her site so go grab it!!!

June is back from her hols and told me of ScrappingdigiKreations, oh my what a lovely site, I shall be investigating more today!

I got my P~S~E 6 for $34.99 (£18) approx from eProductPros.com this is a good price and I can treat myself to some more kits ;)))

New Blogs I came across

2008-10-13T22:29:00.000-07:00

http://everydaydigitalscrapbooking.blogspot.com/

I found this blog, it has great tutorials for the digiscrapper! There are good tuts for the newbie!!

I am still trying out free trial programs but it looks as if I will buy the PSE7 I found it hard but some of the layouts turned out better.

http://www.scrappersguide.com/
This one has a great forum for help plus loads of other stuff!

Prizes and Pictures

2008-10-11T21:31:00.000-07:00

This site is a must go and visit site, there is a gorgeous handcrafted blanket & a Tutu as a prize for going but the best bit is the amazing photographs of Kelley's daughter Ky.

http://ckhowefamily.blogspot.com/

I came across the blog through Kim's page one of the blogs I follow

Autumn Colours - Fall Splendor

2008-10-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

I love the colours of the free gift I picked up from the train ride at

Cindyrelly's Corner

Cen's Loft - Bargains- Get yours!

2008-10-06T04:08:00.000-07:00

June at Cen's Loft is on her hols and has left us with a free gift and is retiring some of her kits, therefore there are some bargains to be had.

Freebie Kit from Cen's Loft plus reduced price stock!

A bouquet from Cyprus for the Generous Blog Party Scrapbookers!

2008-10-01T03:46:00.000-07:00

Thank You to the generous digiscrapping folk out there:

THE BLOG PARTY TRAIN TAKE A RIDE!!!!!!!! ALL ABOARD TICKET VALID UNTIL HALLOWEEN!!!

Party Party Party!!!! Freebies!!

2008-10-01T03:29:00.000-07:00

The most amazing thing happened today, I got invited to a party online!
Go to Cen's Loft to find out more, if you love to scrap and want freebies well this is where to go!! This is an exciting event lasting until Halloween (My Birthday).

The link from Cen's Loft takes you an amazing journey and all the way collecting goodies.
Go, Go, Go!!

Cen's Loft

Autumn at Cen's Loft and Watership Down

2008-09-28T04:26:00.000-07:00

Autumn colours are just amazing, here in Cyprus we will soon see the vineyards go vibrant red, orange and gold, the fields will green up as they are golden all summer, the combination is amazing. To see some great autumn add ons and colours I suggest you pop over to Cen's Loft. June tells a good tale as well, she has a great story about the tax man and her family tree at the moment.

I found a challenge at Scrapbook Flair yesterday and decided to use a picture of our eldest daughter Nicola when she was little, the challenge was for your favourite book, well Watership Down is a sad but courageous book as far as I am concerned and Nicola's rabbit was called ...wait for it...Bright Eyes

this was using PSE6

My Wedding Photograph Disasters and PSE6

2008-09-27T07:51:00.000-07:00

Our wedding photographer was a disaster! The photos were all brown! He lost reels of precious moments and we got told the Bailiffs were taking away his stuff, my dad raced to his house and managed to grab an album with a few pictures in. PSE6 has been a fantastic tool to help me make the most of what we have nearly 30yrs later, I am so thrilled.

This photograph is not great but I call this scrap page The Pensive Face, look closely at my brand new husband's face..."Have I done the right thing" should be the caption!

These are pictures that I have played around with using PSE and they look so different, I am now looking for more to play with, turning these black and white gives them a nostalgic touch.

The Queen Mother and Cyprus Sunsets

2008-09-26T08:54:00.000-07:00

In 1979 my husband graduated and was presented to the Queen Mother, there were no official photographs taken unfortunately, however as she was leaving I captured her waving directly at us, I have had great pleasure using a kit from Shabby Princess called Harvest Spice

I used the same kit to enter a challenge, this is using 2 of everything, I called this Two Cyprus Sunsets

Photo fun

2008-09-25T12:45:00.001-07:00

I found a photograph of our youngest Emma, she is soon to be 25yrs old, this was taken at her first Christmas party, I think she enjoyed herself. This digiscrapbooking is helping me find all the pictures that I didn't know what to do with, the family love opening their emails and finding a fun page for them, I think I may be in trouble for this one tho'!
This wonderful layout was a freebie gift from FAITH TRUE it is the loveydovey kit, it was fun trying to do the layouts etc, the colours are so vibrant.

Create a Blinkie

2008-09-24T10:51:00.000-07:00

As you know I am always on the look out for help and support with this new hobby, there are some fantastic people out there doing just that, Rachael at Leah's Frogs Creations
has created this tutorial using PSE6

CREATE A BLINKIE

Thank you Racheal

Tutorials - Designers

2008-09-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

(Made for June at Cen's Loft using her lace mat freebie)

I found more online tutorial sites today:

COTTAGE ARTS helps with PSE6, it is layed out simply and is very informative, there is a newsletter to subscribe to and freebies to be had.

SCRAP TUTOR

I will never become a digital designer, I am a little slow in that area, I can however appreciate the efforts of others:

SECRETS OF THE DESIGNERS

DIGI SHOP TALK

My Book

2008-09-22T12:11:00.000-07:00

It is a year since I self published my poetry, I sold in America, UK and Cyprus.
I did it for my 50th Birthday present to myself, another achievement in my life. This scrap page is to celebrate the first and final year of this book.
Book two is in its infancy and it is time for Book one to retire.

Engagement Celebrations

2008-09-20T10:33:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the engagement of two of our three children

Nicola and Darren

For Dale and Nicolas LO, I used PSE6 trial and the pretty frame was a gift from Cen's Loft (see sidebar)

Darren and Viv's LO was made using a freebie kit from Efies Blog

A gift that made me smile

2008-09-19T06:24:00.000-07:00

The village is a little sad because of the young family man who shot himself because of gambling debts and black is the colour for those who have lost family normally, but to see so many wearing it to enter their home makes you feel a little low.
I went to visit Cen's Loft for my daily fix of good reading and beautiful creations and I was thrilled and cheered up in seconds, June, the lovely June chose me to meet a newly emerged GOGGA.

The idea with Gogga is to send him around the world by blog hopping, she received him from Gabrielle from Ireland and he is an ongoing project of a little girl.
I will send him to Jaya in Sacremento, to Shazza in Australia
Happy journey Gogga.

Photographs and PSE

2008-09-17T06:25:00.000-07:00

Donut decided to hide but was captured by the camera.
I have played with PSE6 and its features to create a scrap page using this photograph. I still find it complicated at times but I think I am achieving results slowly.

I added a background, then a paper frame, I then moved the photo into the frame and added text. I saved the picture as a jpeg photo. Later I decided I was not entirely happy with it so back to PSE I went and added a new background with a palm leaf effect, I then dragged and dropped two of the pictures and this is the final result.
Quick Let's Hide

The Floral Bird

2008-09-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

Todays challenge I found on Scrapbook Flair was to design your own stationary. I used the PSE6 trial program again and fiddled around using the layering and light effects.
The bird is cut out of a hibiscus flower photograph I took a while ago, and I think the outcome is very pretty. It made me want to print it off an write to a friend, something I have not done for a while.

Vintage Lace and Generous Gifts

2008-09-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

I cannot get over the generosity of the Graphic designers and DigiScrapbooking designers!
There are some amazing freebies out there, I know,I know, I have said it before, well I don't care, they deserve being highlighted and thanked.
Today I came across Judy and Carol at CJs Creations, oh such a pretty gift on offer here, they have beautiful papers on show. They have word art downloads, I will work out how to use them one day.
I had a practice with PSE6 trial and this is another tribute to my best friend Angie.

( I haven't got the hang of making these fit the screen properly, they come out enormous sizes when you right click) so go to Memories and Antique Lace to see a decent picture
To see the site I was lucky enough to find just go Here

2008-09-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

I spent the day reading recommended tutorials using PSE, thanks June for the link. I did learn something today. I also spent the day downloading freebies to practice with. This is my first week of scrapbooking and to those out there that have set me on the right road, this one is for you.
I open up other scrappers blogs and sites and sit with my mouth wide open, there are some amazing creations out there, the designers really know their stuff, I envy their talents.

I found a site today where the owner gave away a lovely mini kit and a challenge, this is my effort. I used the backing paper and wordart from Lorie and a photo of a calendular from my garden, I then played around with cutting shapes, something I learned from Cen's Loft tutorial, and cut a Butterfly from the leaf of Lorie's kit, I then got a bit braver and played with overlay. It was a slow process but it was fun and I certainly got a sense of having achieved something, thanks Lorie.
To see her site click HERE

My Best Friend

2008-09-13T04:16:00.000-07:00

Meet Angie, my best friend.
Sadly Angie passed away at the age of 36, it happened within 48hrs, her smile was gone, we had been friends for 33yrs, a lifetime of friendship.
I am still playing with PSE 6 free trial, it is getting a bit easier to remember what to do, I have to keep practicing but I think I will invest in the package at the end of the month.
I used Autumn papers from Cen's loft freebies ( I will be buying kits one day), this paper I turned upside down, the frame was PSE, as was the daisy. The daisy was our flower. I want to show it to her but can only hope she is looking down and smiling at my effort.

Photoshop Elements Free Trial

2008-09-12T05:13:00.000-07:00

Practicing with PSE 6 trial program I was able to play with my freebie from Jaya (see sidebar to go get your own!)
PSE is not easy but I only downloaded yesterday afternoon and created 2 scrap pages, not bad for a newbie.
Junes's gift of a Lace mat (see Cen's Loft link in sidebar) was great fun to play with and the outcome will either go on show here or on her blog, yes I sent it as a gift...sounds awful in words, I get a free gift from her and give it back as a thank you :/

If you are thinking about digi-scrapping, follow this blog, I will be going slowly...or for proper support keep an eye on my side bar as I link to anyone who will offer knowledge greater than mine!
This link will take you to the free trial area of Adobe...go have some fun! Photoshop Elements
To see a clearer picture of Summer picnic click here summer picnic