Ros Davidson, Independent Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator, Melbourne Australia

Last post from here

2009-04-08T09:39:00.001+10:00

This is my last post from here. In future I will be posting from www.rosdavidson.typepad.com

Hope to "see" you there!

Ros

Stamps for sale

2009-03-25T18:24:00.001+11:00

I am having a stamp clearance of all the stamp sets I own that are being retried from the 2008/2009 Idea Book & Catalogue. First in best dressed re orders, postage extra via express post bags. Pick ups are available from Skye. Payment via cash, direct debit or cheque.

2009/2010 Idea Book & Catalogue are available to earn for free (by booking a workshop or spending over $100). They are also for sale. $12 pick up from Skye or $15 posted.

Just remember I am getting married on Saturday and then have my honeymoon for a week so replies maybe a little slower than usual.

Ros

Stamp Sets
Alphabits - $20 pg. 110
Artfully Asian - $30 pg. 48

Background Sampler - $20 pg. 102
Backyard BBQ - $30 pg. 53
Birthday Best - $20 pg. 51
Brocade Basics - $30 pg. 101
Bud Basics - $30 (including co-ordinating stampin’ around wheel) pg. 78

Canvas - $25 pg. 108
Carte Postale - $45 (including co-ordinating stampin’ around wheel) pg. 94
Crazy For Christmas - $25 pg. 28

Fabulous Flowers - $30 pg. 79
Floral - $25 pg. 107

Genuine Articles - $20 pg. 110

Hung Up on the Holidays - $20 pg. 26

Looks Like Spring - $45 (including matching punch) pg’s. 76 & 143

Merry, Merry - $35 (including co-ordinating stampin’ around wheel) pg. 29

Polka Dots & Petals - $20 pg. 47

Rough Edges Alphabet - $25 pg. 126

Simple Somethings (NEW) - $20 pg. 43
Stem Silhouettes - $35 (2007/2008 Summer Mini Catalogue)
Summer By the Sea - $40 pg. 84

Unfrogettable - $35 (including co-ordating stampin’ around wheel) pg. 54

Wishing you the best - $20 pg. 49
Wild Hearts - $20 (2007/2008 Idea Book & Catalogue)
Wild Rose - $50 pg. 72

Simply Sent Card Kits
Lifelong notes (used 1 of each style cards from pack) - $60 pg. 12

Stampin’ Around Wheels
My ABC’s - $5 pg.125
Petals - $10 pg. 47

Hostess Sets
Level 1
From the Garden (NEW) x 2- $20 pg. 18
Party Punch – (NEW) - $20 pg. 17

Level 2
In the Spotlight (NEW) - $20 pg. 22
Spring Solitude - $30 (including co-ordinating stampin’ around wheel) pg. 20

2009 Sale-A-Bration Sets
Congrats (NEW) - $20
Congrats - $20
Yummy (NEW) - $20
Yummy - $20
Polka Dot Punches (NEW) - $20
Polka Dot Punches - $20
Botanical Blooms - $20

Quoteable moments

2009-03-14T08:44:00.002+11:00

Some both Drew and Bella have each said this month. Totally worth writing down and scrapbooking!!!

"Hi, I'm Nikki" said Nikki to out next door neighbour whilst walking to the local park
"I'm Drewie" said Drew "and this is my friend, Dad"

"I need to goilet" said Bella (go toilet)

Retirment list update

2009-03-13T22:33:00.001+11:00

See http://rosdavidson.typepad.com/ros_davidson_live_life_an/2009/03/retirement-list-update.html

Typepad makes it easier to allow lists to updated list on my new webpage!

Ros

A weekly roundup!

2009-03-13T22:16:00.009+11:00

Slack blogger. Yup that is me. There has been a fair bit going on but I just haven’t had time to blog about any of it. That and I have had a couple of migraines this past week. Ewww yucky!

Saturday last weekend was my brother’s 30th birthday. We went to one of the local pubs in town with many family members and had a great meal. Afterwards, the kids had a ball in the local park.

Picture of my brother, his wife, my niece, my kids and my SIL’s niece. Warren told the kids to pull funny faces, and of course, look at the ones that listened!

I tried going on the swing at the park, and it wasn’t made for adults is all I can say. I think this picture of me says it all... LOL and now I have a huge yucky bruise on the side of my thigh... I was going to take a picture of it, but then again, I don’t think the whole world needs to see my naked thigh!

Josh had a major meltdown at school on Wednesday morning, he wanted to be Mr Independent and walk into school by himself. It ended up with me carrying him in like a baby and sore arm muscles to this day still.

Wedding plans are moving along. Still need to make place cards but here are some pics of the hen’s party invite and wedding invite. Just over 2 weeks to go now. Still need to organise my jewellery (know what I want though) and just had my hair dyed today.

(Invites in my journal as a wedding keepsake) Sorry for crappy pics!
Materials list: (Hen’s night invite)
Cardstock: Soft sky, wild wasabi
Stamps: Big on Spring
Ink: Basic Black, Soft Sky
DSP: Spring silhouettes
Other: 2 way glue pen, dazzling diamonds, seed beads, white grosgrain ribbon, scallop edge punch

Materials list: (Wedding invite)
Cardstock: Basic grey, whisper white, basic black
Ink: Taken with teal, gold encore, basic grey
Stamps: Season of joy
Other: Black grosgrain ribbon, doodlebug embossed cardstock

Had a few SU workshops and have my final class for March tomorrow. We are making this explosion card.

Materials list:
Stamps: Outlined for fun, Baroque motifs
DSP: Bali Breeze
Cardstock: Old olive, Whisper white
Other: Embossing powder, versamark, brads, felt fusion flowers

The new catalogue is released in less than 3 weeks and I can’t wait. I haven’t got my copy yet and am anxiously waiting for it. If anyone wants to pre-order a catalogue they are $12 picked up from me in Skye or $15 delivered. Contact me on rosnat@iprimus.com.au or call me on 0407 353 325.

Having a bad day here, got slugged a fine for mail that didn’t have enough postage, more than happy to pay the additional postage but the $1.50 extra per letter I am not!!! I wish I was contacted before they sent them all and charged me an additional $51! Got sent a parking infringement in the mail today too for parking on the nature strip while taking Josh and Callum to school. Cranky, but I can cope that. Problem is, the street (well court) I was parked in, if I parked on the road, you can barely get another car past. Okay, gripe over!

Best go to bed. Need an early night since the migraines are giving me the s&%^s!

Cheers,
Ros

Sold out already!

2009-03-01T17:09:00.002+11:00

Just a few items that have already been sold out in not even a day!!! I am shell shocked still, to be losing so many stamp sets and to find so many things already out of stock. So if you are after anything, get your orders in fast!

Product Description
Flip Flops
Wild Wasabi Classic Ink Refill
Soft Sky Classic Stamin' Ink Refill
River Rock Classic Stampin' Ink Refill
Purely Pomegranite Classic Stampin' Ink Refill
Earth Elements Eyelets
Soft Subtle Eyelets
Groovy Guava Classic Stampin' Ink Refill
Best Friend Numbers
Mateys Map
Basic Eyelets
Gifts Galore
Garden Annuals
Confetti Simply Scrappin'
Leaf Prints
Bundle of Joy
Short Order Numbers
Blue Bayou Classic Stampin' Ink Refill

Ros

Retirement list

2009-02-28T17:48:00.007+11:00

The long awaited retired stamps and accesories list is now here. I for one, have been anxiously waiting for it as we (as Stampin' Up! demonstrators) didn't get advance notice like we do for mini catalogues...

Just briefly, I will mention that my settings have all gone haywire as I am currently switching over to Typepad and had an operator error on my blogspot blog. For the month of March, I will be updating both my blogs, http://www.rosoakes.blogspot.com/ and http://www.rosdavidson.typepad.com/. (The difference in the two blog addresses, aside from one being blogger and the other being typepad is the typepad address will be my married name from next month).

This year, Stampin' Up! has listed all retiring items as a pdf document which can be downloaded

from here. I am a little sad to see some of the stamp sets going, (I am losing 34 stamp sets!) but then, I can only get excited about what is to come in the new catalogue.

Cheers,

Ros

P.S. If anyone else has any thoughts that might make things easier to read/understand etc. feel free to contact me so I can work with what you, my customers want.

Update

2009-02-28T17:41:00.002+11:00

A quick update about the bushfire appeal. On Friday (27th of Feb) just two weeks after beginning the bushfire appeal, so far, $34,653.80 has been raised! OMG! I know that the total will have increased this weekend as being the last day of sale-a-bration I have recieved many orders from people ordering any number of the bushfire appeal stamp sets (particulary priceless!)

I am currently kicked out of my home, DH (Nat) is having his bucks party at our house today/tonight so me and the kids had to go. I am crashing the night at my mum's house (and she is away on holidays) so it is not all bad but the lots of packing, cleaning etc. I had to do before leaving was crazy. I had to pack for my workshop, clothes etc. and finish cleaning the stuff Natty hadn't thought of etc... Ahhh I will be glad tomorrow evening when I get my house back (in a nice neat order... I hope Nat takes notes... LOL) and am enjoying my home cooked roast that Nat is cooking for me....

Off to deal with dinner stuff.
Ros

Last day

2009-02-28T12:35:00.002+11:00

Today is the last day to get your orders in for sale-a-bration. I am taking orders up until 9pm tonight. Either call me on 0407 353 325 or e-mail me at rosnat@iprimus.com.au to order.

Off to a workshop now. More of an update later.
Ros

Team layout challenge

2009-02-24T10:33:00.001+11:00

Just a layout from our Stampin' Up! team for our Feb. challenge. To use any of the double sided papers from the summer mini catalogue and any of the accessories that match to create a layout. Well here is what I came up with. Photo by Katie Toland taken at my mum's wedding Jan. 2008.

Materials list:

Stamps: Embrace Life, Live your dream

Ink: River rock, old olive, basic black, ruby red

Cardstock: Whisper white, ruby red,

Designer Series Paper: Ginger Blossom

Other: River rock double stitched ribbon, white gel pen, stampin dimensionals, chipboard letters, button and glossy accents.

Ros

SU Bushfire Appeal

2009-02-23T10:28:00.003+11:00

Just an update on how the Stampin Up! bushfire appeal is going. On Friday the 20th, $15,744.85 has been donated in just one week to the Australian Red Cross Victorian Bushfires 2009 Appeal. WOW, talk about loads of sales.

Remember you have less than one week to qualify for sale-a-bration stamp sets with all orders needing to be into me by 9pm Saturday 28th.

Last but not least, a layout share. Nothing SU on here but based on a two peas sketch which is to celebrate the seasons. Now, I certainld do not want to celebrate Black Saturday but I did want to get my feelings etc. and what I was doing that day down onto a layout.

Ros

Paper beaded bracelet

2009-02-22T22:35:00.004+11:00

So this is what tv watching and creating makes... paper beads for a bracelet.

I used Le Jardin double sided paper and cut long v shapes and twirled them around a toothpick till it was all rolled up and then coated them in mod podge and set them aside to dry.

It is now a demo piece in my "kit" for workshops and many people are suprised when I mention that I made the beads myself. You can also make you own beads and stamp onto paper instead of using double sided paper like I have. I have tried stamping beads too but have yet to make enough for a whole bracelet.

Ros

Baby Mabel

2009-02-22T22:30:00.004+11:00

My step sister had a little baby girl last weekend, Valentine's day and I made this card for her. I have a "thing" with my punches at the moment... Can't be helped!

Picture of Faye, and Dougie holding Mabel.

Materials list:

Stamps: Short and sweet

Ink: Basic Black

Cardstock: Pretty in Pink, Pink Pirouette, Basic Black

Punches: Boho Blossoms, word window, scallop circle, large oval, 1" circle punch

Other: Making Memories stickers, checked ribbon

I have been creating other things, but have been a little lazy in the photography department!

Ros

Bushfire Appeal

2009-02-12T19:31:00.003+11:00

This is one of the reason why I am proud to be associated with Stampin' Up!
They are a company that put into action how much they really care....

Please join with Australian and New Zealand Stampin' Up! demonstrators in helping the victims of the Bushfire tragedy.

You can help by purchasing any of the 10 selected stamp sets from 12 February through 31 March 2009, and Stampin' Up! will donate 50% of the sales of these sets to the Australian Red Cross Victorian Bushfires 2009 Appeal.

I am also offering 20% off these sets, in hope that I will be able to sell more stamps for the appeal.

Item # Page # Stamp set Price
108864 76 Looks Like Spring* $58.95 NOW $47.16
108934 27 The Snowflake Spot* $39.95 NOW $31.96
108756 80 Bodacious Bouquet* $58.95 NOW $47.16
110247 46 Polka Dots & Paisley* $35.95 NOW $28.76
111973 115 G'day Mate* $35.95 NOW $28.76
108744 51 Be Happy* $39.95 NOW $31.96
112312 105 Priceless $48.95 NOW $39.16
108909 89 Seeing Spots $29.95 NOW $23.96
112380 98 Baroque Motifs $39.95 NOW $31.96
114261 3** Live Your Dream $55.95 NOW $44.76

So if you've been thinking of getting any of these sets then do it now and you'll know you're helping those in great need and getting great stamps at the same time!

* These sets will appear on the upcoming list of retiring products, so they'll only be available while supplies last.

** From the Summer Mini Catalogue

Saleabration benefits are still available on these sets, so orders of $100 or more prior to Feb 28th will also get a free Saleabration set.

During the donation period, I will periodically update you with the amount of money Stampin' Up! are collecting from the sales of these sets.

Thank you so much for your anticipated support. Until today I have felt so helpless and although this will only be a drop in the ocean, each drop counts and will help these people rebuild their lives.

To order just call me on 9786 1149 or email me at rosnat@iprimus.com.au

Victoria Fires

2009-02-10T10:42:00.002+11:00

The fires that are damaging Victoria at the moment are terrible. Thankfully, (so far) no one I know has been badley affected by them. Some immediate family have been affected but only minor and have suffered no loss etc.

I was in Cobram when they started and the car tempature was reading 53 degrees outside the car! We had to take an alternate route back home seeing as the Hume was blocked both ways due to the smoke so we had to come home via Bendigo. Lucky we left when we did as we were less than an hour in front of the fires at Bendigo and if we hadn't of been able to get home via Bendigo, we would have been stuck!

I read on Janine Kaye's blog that she is offering specials on photo shoots and taking photos for free. As a scrapbook and if I have lost all my photos, I would be devasted so I am trying to help pass the message around. We are looking at setting up a fundraiser through our Stampin' Up! team to help raise money for the cause. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Ros

Sent home early

2009-02-06T21:36:00.002+11:00

Josh was sent home early from school today. Second day at school (oops forgot to mention he started school yesterday and Nikki started kinder) and he was sent home early from sick bay after bumping his head on a pole! Photos of his and Nikki's first day to come and of course the bumped head.

Cheers,
Ros

Blogging from my iPod

2009-02-06T21:15:00.003+11:00

Finally blogging from my iPod touch more than a year after receiving it. Currently in a hotel room in Mooroopna (Shepparton). Going to a bakery in Tatura tomorrow that has one of the best vanilla slices before doing a workshop in Cobram. Enjoying a night away from the kids and having some quality time with Natty.

Cheers,
Ros

It's something I do...

2009-02-01T22:38:00.003+11:00

From when the kids were all born, I have their measurements each month and then when they reached 12 months continued it every three months from there. Thankfully, the kids birthdays are April, July and October (all three months apart) so that only month I "really" need to remember is January.

Josh, 118.5cm, 19.9kg, size 12 shoes
Nikki, 109.5cm, 19.2kg, size 11 shoes
Drew, 103.5cm, 15.8kg, size 11 shoes
Bella, 87cm, 12.2kg, size 6 shoes

Something, I have noticed about Josh is he grows up to 4.5cm in three months x 2 and then doesn't grow any more until six months later. Interesting...

Kinder meeting tomorrow, dress fitting, suit shopping, cake shopping (if we can fit it in), Nat is working (so dinner needs to be cooked early etc.) so I had better go to bed.
Nite.

FK Entry

2009-01-29T20:33:00.006+11:00

I just realised I haven't shared my FK entry... Layouts that I loved when I did them but now, I look at some of them and go ummm ho hum?

Cheers,

Ros

Creative play

2009-01-28T11:15:00.001+11:00

I had a creative day at Claire's house the other Friday. I didn't get heaps done but these are two things that I finally finished when I got home on Friday... I was struggling with tiredness really bad that I almost fell asleep behind the wheel while driving on Eastlink and had to pull over and sleep. I must have been tired to have slept on the side of a freeway with trucks not bothering me for 30 minutes...

Onto the projects.... A card just coz I could

Materials list:
Stamps: Life your dream, boho backgrounds, symbols of solitude
Cardstock: Very vanilla, ruby red, metallic gold cardstock, basic black

Ink: Versamark, ruby red,

Other: Photo corner punch, brads, mat pat, emobssing powder, 1 3/8" circle punch

and a layout challenge using two cardstock colours, a neutral, brads, ribbon, no patterned paper and no punches

Materials list:

Stamps: Embrace life, sanded background

Cardstock: Brilliant blue, tempting turquoise

Ink: Brilliant blue, tempting turquoise, whisper white

Other: Mat pack

Cheers,
Ros

P.S. I hope to be creating more new stuff soon as I have only, 3, yes THREE more wedding invites to make (plus one to keep for myself) and then I am onto the hen's night invites. Not that I have to do them, but I want to... Does that make sense?

First few SU cards

2009-01-27T22:46:00.004+11:00

On our team Stampin' Up! forums there has been our first cards shown. I can't remember exactly which card was my first card I made but I do know, the all of the cards below are the ones I made in my first 3 months as a demonstrator.

I don't know if my style has changed or evolved or what. Since I have made cards since I was 14 or so, it is hard to guess. What do you think?

Now, I am making things more often (just doesn't seem like it lately) and having a ball and even have myself a little team of 4 downlines. I orginally joined SU because I wanted lots of product and it was a way of getting it at a discount and I totally loved how the red matched the red etc... Plus I thought it might help with the depression (which it does!) Now, I still love it for all those reasons, but also the friendships I have developed with other demonstrators and the fun we have plus many more reasons including all the cool new things I have learned along the way.

Ros

Wedding card

2009-01-23T21:13:00.004+11:00

I went to my cousins' wedding last weekend and was asked by my grandmother to make a card for them. This is what I came up with after using a card from http://luvtostamp.blogspot.com/2008/11/wild-rose.html for inspiration. Okay, so I mainly cased it. I couldn't remember where I saw the idea from so that is why I am edited it with the lik to Karen's blog. I also made a very similar card using Apricot Appeal and Pumpkin Pie combination but can't find the photo...

Materials list:
Stamps: Wonderful favourites, wild rose
Ink: Regal rose, pretty in pink, basic black
Cardstock: Regal rose, pretty in pink, whisper white
Other: Regal rose 5/8" ribbon, pretties kit, stampin dimensionals.

Just one thing I want to mention about wonderful favourites, when out catalogue was released April 1st last year, there was a couple of errors in it. One of them was wonderful favourites. We currently pay $39.95 while the US pay $41.95 or so. We should be paying around the $80 mark for wonderful favourites but because SU made the mistake they are honouring it as printed. How awesome is that? Same thing with the designer series paper, it should be $16.95 not $11.95 like we are paying!

I've had a busy day stamping with my upline Claire so some new creations will be uploaded soon!

Ros

Keesh's challenge

2009-01-14T12:43:00.003+11:00

I thought I'd give Keesh's challenge a go this week seeing as it is an awesome sketch. Here is what I came up with.

Materials list:

Stamps: Polka dot punches, Yummy

DSP: Bali breeze

Cardstock: Pretty in pink, basic black purely pomegrante

Other: Styled silver hodgepodge, felt fusion flowers, small oval punch, 3/4" circle punch, rose red brads, groovy guava re inker, rose red re inker, purely pomegrante re inker, black embossing powder

Cheers,

Ros.

Handpainted

2009-01-08T08:34:00.000+11:00

Each December at the kinder Josh went to, the kids would paint a canvas for their family for Christmas. Here is the one of 3 year old kinder and 4 year old kinder. Bella (is painted from a picture in 2007) and our house... (is not only what he thinks our address is, but is 2008's picture).

Cheers,

Ros

Mascara anyone?

2009-01-08T08:07:00.000+11:00

Mascara anyone? Nikki knows how to put it on. LOL...

Cheers,

Ros

Christmas present

2009-01-07T20:00:00.003+11:00

Just a small pressie I made for my niece Chloe for Christmas... My SIL loved it! Idea from Marni Winen in one of Kim Archer's online classes.

Loads of buttons from Beutron, white tone on tone fabric from Spotlight, frame an old one I already had and crafty matters ceramics.

Cheers,

Ros

Christmas photos of the kids & me

2009-01-07T19:34:00.009+11:00

Finally, I can upload the Christmas "hat" photos I took of the kids. It has only taken me so long as Bella wouldn't sit still and leave the hat on long enough for me take a photo.

Snap, I even managed to include a pic of me... Thanks to Nikki who took it! Not too bad I guess, she is only 4! Must excuess the tiredness, lack of make up and the rest... Impromptu shot!

Can anyone say cheese?
Poser?
Naughty or Nice?Cheeky?Cheers,

Ros

Thank you gifts

2009-01-05T08:00:00.000+11:00

These are little thank you gifts I made for the staff at my children's childcare and Josh's kinder for Christmas. (They had theirs wrapped with a hand decorated Christmas decoration from Josh also!) I also made one for all my SIL's, my mum, my MIL, my sister and me. (Mine is the only one I took a photo off!) I love it as it is small and thing enough to fit into my handbag and allows me to see a how month at a time when I need a calender. Not to mention, it has 2 calender years in it so when it rolls around to late 2009 I won't be like, I haven't got my 2010 diary yet (like I was saying re my 2009 diary last year!)

Materials list

Stamps: Simple serif mini alphabets and numbers

Patterned Paper: Bali Breeze (Summer mini 2008/2009)

Cardstock: Whisper white, pumpkin pie

Other: Scallop edge punch (Summer mini 2008/2009), DMC cotton, mat pack, pretties kit, flower fusion (Summer mini 2008/2009).

Cheers,

Ros

Summer mini swap card

2009-01-04T08:00:00.000+11:00

My spin on a card for our team summer mini card swap.

Colour combination came from the Stampin' Up! color coach on page 128 of the main catalogue. Click here to see the main idea book or the summer mini catalogue. If you would prefer a hard copy, contact me and I will arrange to send you out a copy.

Stamp sets: In the stars (Summer mini 2008/2009)
Cardstock: Rose red, cameo coral, barely banana, certainly celery, garden green, whisper white
Ink: Rose red, versamark
Other: Embossing powder, 1 1/4" circle punch, 3/4" circle punch, rose red double stitched ribbon

Cheers
Ros.

Sale A Bration

2009-01-04T00:05:00.005+11:00

It's the new year and Stampin' Up!'s biggest promotion of the Year, Sale-a-bration. If you are new to Saleabration, here's how it works. In this brochure you will find 4 exclusive stamp sets only available during Saleabration between January 1st and February 28th 2009.

You can't buy these sets, you can only earn them by either placing a $100 order (you get a set for each $100 you spend so you can get more than one) or inviting me to your home to demonstrate some stamping techniques and products to your friends, and reaching $600 in sales.

Sale-a-bration is also THE BEST time to become a demonstrator as you get an extra free stamp set of your choice worth $79.95 (in addition to the huge discount you already get on your starter kit). I'm also giving anyone a $50 product bonus of your choice to anyone who joins my team during Sale-a-bration.

Joining Stampin' Up! has bought so much good stuff to my life. It has given me a job that I am truly passionate about, a whole group of new friends, a wonderful holiday (with all expenses paid for) and lots of free stamp sets!

Cheers,
Ros

Update with a project share

2009-01-03T23:46:00.003+11:00

It is about time I did an update especially with a project share seeing as I haven't shared anything I have made from the summer mini catalogue or using the new free SAB (sale-a-bration) stamps sets.

Materials list

Stamps: Live Your Dream (Summer Mini 2008/2009), Occasional greetings

Patterned Paper: Ginger Blossom (Summer Mini 2008/2009)

Cardstock: Cameo Coral, Basic Black, Kraft

Ink: Versamark

Other: Embossing powder, 1/4" circle punch, stampin' dimensionals, glossy accents

Cheers,

Ros

The best day ever!

2008-12-20T20:12:00.005+11:00

Today we went to Ashton Westwood's 5th birthday party. Ashie is Tanja's son. Anyway, it was a beautiful day for a birthday party and the kids had a ball. Not only was their a jumping castle, an awesome swing set but a slip and slide to play on. (Using tank water). I just have to share these photos of Josh with a huge mega grin on his face.

By the way... If you are wondering about the title of the post, Josh declared it "the best day ever" even before birthday cake and lolly bags. Tanja being the awesome one she is made sure Josh had his own special lolly bag (with things in it he could eat) and cordial etc. at the party that he could have. Thanks heaps Tan!

I have to share this photo too as it so reminds me of a child when you could play outside with the sprinkler and run under it etc. Shame I cut part of Josh and Nikki's heads off!

Cheers,

Ros

Busy

2008-12-18T09:39:00.003+11:00

So I have been slack and super busy. Isn't that how December always is. Just a quick point form update till I find some time to update properly.

- Bella has come down with the chicken pox
- My SIL has arrived home for Christmas
- Went to Create 08 and meet Heidi Swapp
- Josh finished 4 year old kinder
- Josh had kinder concert
- Played poker
- Doing Ali's december daily album
- Doing Shimelle's journal your Christmas album
- Dijs family Christmas
- Sleepover at brother's place
- Grandad's and Chloe's birthdays
- Chloe's birthday party
- Made and sent all my Christmas cards out
- Done some Christmas shopping, some wrapping and more shopping and wrapping to go!

Cheers,
Ros

Summer mini catalogue!

2008-12-01T19:57:00.008+11:00

Stampin' Up! released the new summer mini catalogue today. See here for a copy or e-mail me and I will post one out to you.
Edited to add, the price of the Tombow glue is incorrectly printed, it is actually $7.95!

Stampin' Up! also have a whole bunch of specials for the 20/20 promotion for December. These are;
With the 20/20 promo Stampin' Up! are having, I have decided to do my own little promotion. When you spend $20 on catalogue merchandise, for example wild wasabi inkpad #109014 $9.95 and silver brads #104336 $12.95. Purchase the winter bright simply scrappin kit #109663 at 20% off for $29.56 and Many Merry Messages #108869 at 20% for $51.96. If you add 3 sheets of whisper white 12 x 12 cardstock #106529, 1 sheet of basic black A4 cardstock #106561 and 10 envelopes #106590 you will be able to make all these projects pictured below and I will e-mail step by step instructions for all the projects to you including a gift box and bow, 10 cards and decorated envelopes, a gift card, 15 gift tags, a 9 x 9 and 6 x 12 layouts. (Both layouts can easily be made into 12 x 12) .

Since my last post, Josh, Nikki and Drew came down with the chicken pox all on the same day! I am seriously over it and can't wait for them to get rid of it. Bella hasn't caught it yet but I am sure she will.

Off to play with some more new summer mini goodies.
Ros

Ahhhh

2008-11-26T23:23:00.004+11:00

Ahhhhh, the kids drove me crazy today and you are about to find out why.... LOL, I decided that I wanted hot dogs for lunch. No problems, we had the hot dogs in the fridge but no rolls. I thought okay, it's a nice day we can walk down to the local shops. Josh and Nikki can ride their bikes and I can take the other two in the pram...

A 15-20 minute return trip turned into a 70 minute walk with stopping to get help fixing Nikki's bike seat (it was come off the bike completely) to me kicking Drew out of the pram, loading up the kids bikes onto the pram sideways (like a bike rack) and walking them home that way. I got sick of pulling one along and pushing the pram and there was no way I could push/pull both bikes and the pram.

I told Josh to run ahead and open the house for me, but he was to hot so Nikki took off like a shot and even got Nat out of bed to help me. Of course Drew was lagging behind bigtime. I have never been on such a short walk that took so long and left me so tired.

Crossing the road, well that is another story!
Ros

P.S. I for one thing, will NEVER take all 4 kids to the shops with bikes/prams again. Scooters maybe but certainly not tomorrow I need a huge rest first!

Wide awake!

2008-11-21T02:05:00.003+11:00

So it's 2am in the morning and I am wide awake. I haven't even been to sleep yet, but I can't sleep. Silly me, I read the rest of my new book To Love, Honour and Betray (Till Divorce Us Do Part) to help ease my anxiety (and once I started reading, I couldn't stop!) Obviously I am going to be rats^&$ tomorrow but if you can't sleep, you just can't sleep. At least tomorrow is a childcare day so the kids won't be home and I can rest before getting my hair cut, but that isn't going to help with any of the cleaning up around home either than needs doing... Ahhh well, off to watch Rush from the other night...

Ros

Non Digi Photos

2008-11-20T09:17:00.000+11:00

I scrapped a layout, quite a simple one really and inspired by Ali Edwards using non digi photos. Quite a rarity for me (with the exception of Nat's birthday album.)

Materials list (All Stampin' Up! supplies unless otherwise noted)
Cardstock: Whisper white, brilliant blue, green galore, yoyo yellow
Stamps:
Inks: Basic black, soft sky
Other: 1 3/8" circle punch, 1/4" square punch, basic black journaling marker, nestabilities dies

Off to play with some Christmas crafts, my favourite holiday season of all time.
Ros

MIA

2008-11-19T22:16:00.007+11:00

Been MIA, busy finishing up Natto's 30th birthday album. I had 3 days to finish the album and could only work on it when Nat wasn't around (sleeping or at work.) Late nights run their toll I can tell you.

I have taken photos of a couple of my favourite pages (and I was too lazy to take them out of the page protectors! as I had spent many hours working on the project.)

Materials list is obviously a big one, but what I can remember

Cardstock: Bazzill, Stampin Up

PP: Stampin Up, Basic Grey, Ki Memories, Love Elise, Scenic Route

Other: Sizzix dies

Short one from me, got to get more sleep and have a house to tidy. Someone is having a birthday party here on Saturday...

Ros

KW30

2008-11-13T18:28:00.007+11:00

Kristina Werner color challenge #30, old olive, certainly celery, sahara sand and whisper white... My spin on it with some masking and a little bling using dazzlings diamonds.Cheers,

Ros

P.S. Been busy creating so far this evening I think the kids need some lovin' or at least a bath they are filthy!!!!

Inspired

2008-11-13T12:05:00.004+11:00

I was inspired and had to make my bah humbug card straight away. Here is it. While I was at it, I made a matching envelope also.

Materials list:

Stamps: Rough edges mini alphabet

Ink: Basic Black, River Rock, Old Olive, Real Red

DSP: Dashing

Cardstock: Old Olive, River Rock (textured), Real Red, Certainly Celery, Whisper White, Basic Black

Punches: Boho blossoms, scallop edge punch, scallop circle, horizontal slot, 1/2" & 1/4" circle Other: Dazzling Diamonds, stampin dimensionals, 1/4" real red grosgrain ribbon, styled silver hodgepodge hardware, sponge daubers, 2 way glue pen, note cards & envelope

Ros

P.S. Two posts in one day, most unusual!!!

ATC tutorial

2008-11-13T08:09:00.021+11:00

Welcome to my first ever tutorial.... Hopefully it will make sense and not be too boring. I made these ATC's (Artist Trading Cards) as swaps at Stampin' Up!'s Melbourne Regional’s last Saturday. I ran out quickly and had many a request to post a copy online so others could see that didn't get one.

Products used: (All Stampin' Up!)
Scallop punch
1 1/4", 1", 3/4", 1/2" & 1/4" circle punches
Spiral punch
Basic black, whisper white, brilliant blue, real red, close to cocoa and only orange cardstock
Close to cocoa, chocolate chip ink
Boho backgrounds stamp set
Sponge dauber
2 way glue pen
Snail
Stampin' dimensionals

1. Cut basic black cardstock to 2.5" wide x 3.5" high and whisper white cardstock to 4.5cm wide x 3.5" high

2. Using spiral punch, punch holes along both sides of basic black cardstock

3. Adhere whisper white cardstock onto basic black cardstock

4. Punch out 1 each brilliant blue and real red scallop circles

5. Adhere onto ATC as shown in picture

6. Punch out 4, 1/4" basic black circles (eye), 4, 1/2" circles (eyes), 1, 1/2"only orange circle (Elmo's nose), 1/2, 1" basic black circle (Elmo's mouth), 1/2, 1 1/4" basic black circle (Oscar's mouth), 1, 3/4" close to cocoa circle (stamped with boho backgrounds stamp in chocolate chip ink)

7. Assemble faces as shown

8. Using scallop circle punch a "nibble" mark out of the cookie to look like a bite mark

9. Ink edges of cookie using close to cocoa ink and sponge dauber. Adhere cookie to mouth using stampin' dimensionals.

Oscar the Grouch and Big Bird. Made in the same way only using scallop circle, horizontal slot, large oval, small oval, 1/2" circle & 1/4" circle punches along with spiral punch. Certainly Celery, yoyo yellow, regal rose, real red, basic black and whisper white cardstocks.

Closer look at Big bird's mouth...

A Christmas take on Oscar. I am planning on using him on a card with bah-humbug! LOL

All the same materials as previous only boho blossoms punch, scallop edge punch, real red ink, sponge dauber and dazzling diamonds.

Finally, where it all started from. Drew's 3rd birthday card.

Materials used: (All Stampin' Up!)

Stamps: sanded background, best friends alphabet lower, boho backgrounds

Inks: Only orange

Cardstock: Basic black, whisper white, regal rose, yoyo yellow, certainly celery, real red, only orange, brilliant blue

Punches: Scallop circle, horizontal slot, large oval, small oval, spiral punch, 1 1/4", 1", 3/4", 1/2" & 1/4" circle punches

And last but not least, Nikki's birthday card seeing as I had never posted it either.

Materials used: (All Stampin' Up! unless otherwise mentioned)

Stamps: Figures of speech

Ink: Staz on

Cardstock: Watercolour paper, basic black, whisper white, pink passion, tempting turquoise

Other: Scallop punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, watercolour wonder crayons, Making Memories rub ons, misc. ribbon, Sizzix die cuts, Ki Memories pp

Seriously long post from me. By for now.

Ros

Busy busy busy

2008-11-11T23:20:00.002+11:00

I've been busy busy busy here. In between working on Nat's birthday present (still have 18 more pages to go...) and making swaps for the Stampin' Up! regionals (my swaps will be in the next post I promise) and decorating a wooden tree (to add to my Christmas tree collection). Along with tiding up the backyard for Nat's party and hard rubbish collection there hasn't been a lot of time for much else except a workshop that I squeezed in somewhere!

From the 10th - 30th of November Stampin' Up! are offering their stampin' write markers for individual purchase of each colour at $4.95 each http://www3.stampinup.com/au/ena/6186.asp
Also, they are offering 20% all rub ons when $20 worth of product is purchased http://www3.stampinup.com/au/ena/6185.asp

I am exhausted and am going out tomorrow night for a business meeting with the Stampin' Up! girls (yay a girly night even if it is business...). Best go and hit the hay as I need the sleep.

Ros

Tomorrow???

2008-11-03T18:52:00.002+11:00

Okay so I didn't post as soon as I said I was going to. I have been busy scanning and editing photos. I decided with little time to go (of course) to make Nat an album for his 30th. Not only do I have that to get done in the next 14 days but his party to organise as well.

I started working on a photo collage but with the kids screaming in the background it gave me the shits!!!! I have ordered my photos already and have made plans of how I am scrapping them.

I'll leave that at this and found out what is wrong with the kiddies.
Ros

Paperific

2008-10-30T19:02:00.009+11:00

I worked two days at Paperific at Melbourne Showgounds between October 17th - 19th. I had a ball meeting many new and old customers and just putting faces to names. I am currently following up on my leads that I recieved from Paperific so if you filled out a door prize form, you will just get a call from me soon.

Just a few photos of our stall, (Claire had the awesome idea of the Christmas tree)...

A layout (or two) I finished off to take to Paperific using only SU materials (funshine was one I started at my friends weeks and weeks ago).

Be back tomorrow with further updates as to where I have been in New Zealand for a week after Paperific.

Ros

Nanna...

2008-10-16T09:27:00.001+11:00

Edited to add: Now includes the layout! Opps!

One of my layouts I started when I was away with some friends a few weeks ago. Journaling about how the kids always manage to get some "special" food off the top of Nanna's fridge. (It's where all the treats are kept)
Includes handwritten journaling which is most unusual for me and lots of MM products from my stash.

Ros

Sleepy

2008-10-15T16:39:00.004+11:00

Isn't it always the way, its after 4 o'clock and I have 4 kids asleep. A rarity in it's self but also annoying as I don't like any of the kids asleep after 4pm! It makes it to hard for them to go to bed at night. Bella's first nap was when she went to sleep at 4 today. Her problem, no idea? I just hope she sleeps well tonight or through till morning.

And on the topic of sleep, just a quick layout I made as part of a Stampin' Up! technique challenge (kissing*). Good night, me is a favourite book in our house and something quick and easy to be read at bedtime. Quite often it is missing so I have now made up my own shortened version as written in the journaling.

* Moon from nursery necessitates stamped in so safron and swirl from baroque motif stamped onto the moon stamp (directly onto the rubber) before finally stamping onto whisper white cardstock.

Materials list (all Stampin' Up! products unless otherwise mentioned)

Stamp sets: Nursery necessities, Baroque Motifs

Cardstock: Blue bayou, soft sky, whisper white

Ink: So safron

Other: Chipboard letters - SU and Heidi Swapp, Stampin' Write markers, small star punch

Naughty me!

2008-10-15T09:06:00.003+11:00

So I have been very naughty of late and have negelected to blog. It is celebration month (along with July) in our house and there is two birthdays in the space of 8 days and a craft show begining in between.

I haven't had a chance to do much scrapping but here is one I finished before I got super busy. It was originally based off a card sketch and I stayed up late to get it finished but it was the previous weekends sketch. Anyway, here it is, the sketch and my take on it.

I will be back with photos from Nikki's 4th birthday (yes, she is four now) and another layout soon. Just need to get my goodies all finished for Paperific.

Ros

World Cardmaking Day!

2008-10-04T21:40:00.003+10:00

It's world card making day, only not at my place, LOL, I am scrapbooking! It seems I can't get my head in the right space sometimes.

Stampin' Up! are offering 20% Simply Sent card kits from October 4th - 11th. To see the kits see page 12-14 of the Idea Book and Catalogue or here

This is one of the scrapbook pages I mentioned in the last post. I was lucky to sneak away for a touch more than 24 hours and scrap with some friends and unwind heaps. There was kids there (not my own) so I was a surragote mummy. Nice way to spend a break I think! I didn't finish a single layout while I was there (half started 7 or so) but forgot lots of stuff when I packed my supplies so it was easier to move onto something else...

Bye for now, I have more scrapping to do! LOL

Ros

Stampin' Up! is turning 20...

2008-10-01T22:32:00.007+10:00

...but not in Australia. Hmmmm... we get to celebrate all the same. Stampin' Up! is celebrating its 20th birthday and its party favour is a 20% discount off selected stamp sets with any $20 product purchase. Once you qualify, you can choose to buy one or any number of the following stamp sets for inclusion in the same order for the listed promotion price:

See the flyer for more details.

Be back with a layout and update tomorrow.

Ros

Scrapping! Yay!

2008-09-23T20:11:00.003+10:00

Some scrapping! Yay, finally. I have actually made a start on my 52 weeks of us album that I am doing for this year. Shame it has taken me until week 38 to get started! *Giggles* I have all the journaling save on my computer (and printed out just in case) but I only just got my album last Friday which encouraged me to start it. I had always known it was going to be in a 6 x 9 album so I could have started anytime but the urge just wasn't there.

Other than scrapping explaining my absence, I have been preping for October classes (more information to come), October's Christmas club by mail and Nat and I had a date night (and slept at home overnight with no kids!!!)

I don't know what happened to the photo of week 1 (so I'll have to take it again when the light is better) but here is week 2.

Materials list:

Cardstock: Stampin' Up!

Patterened Paper: Basic Grey

Chipboard letters: Heidi Swapp

Punches: Stampin' Up!

Cheers,

Ros

Same, same but different

2008-09-19T09:03:00.000+10:00

I made these cards as part of our monthly team colour challenge. We were to use groovy guava, bravo burgundy, old olive and blush blossom. I couldn't get it to work without a neutral so I added in whisper white.

The second card also uses certainly celery and I think I like a mix of the two cards together. What do you think?

Apologises about the colour being "off" in the 2nd photo.

Materials list

Stamps: Bud basics

Inks: Blush blossom, bravo burgundy, versamark

Cardstock: Groovy guava, bravo burgundy, old olive and blush blossom, whisper white, certainly celery (2nd card only)

Other: Groovy guava double stitched in colour ribbon, embossing powder, cuttlebug embossing folder, slit punch, 1 3/8" punch, nestabilities (2nd card only)

Ros

Human

2008-09-18T19:31:00.003+10:00

Nikki has just disappeared from the study with her whining and crying and annoying I'm tried Thursday night voice. It was driving me so crazy I rang Nat, (who is doing overtime at work) and said, "talk to me or I might slap your daughter in the face!"

I guess that makes me human doesn't it? Off to relax, I think I need it.
Ros

Teenage card?

2008-09-15T14:54:00.001+10:00

This is something I whipped up a few nights ago before heading to bed. I have had a copy of this card (original by Sharlene Torres) in my inspiration folder for some time... I just loved the way it worked. Sharlene’s was a different to mine but anyway I just wanted to give credit where its due.

I just had to give it a red navel piercing. That was the colour of the first barbell I got in my navel after having it pieced. Funny thing is, my stomach never looked as tan as that, more like whisper white!
Materials list
Stamps: Sanded background
Cardstock: Brocade Blue, Kraft
Inks: Brocade Blue
Other: Rhinestone fire jewels, stampin’ write markers, chocolate satin ribbon (spring mini 2008), ribbon charm (stylish silver hardware, spring mini 2008), mat pack

Cheers,
Ros

P.S. Does anyone else ever write blog posts in their head when they are trying to fall asleep? I do frequently and I never remember them when I wake up and it always seems like such a good topic! *Giggles*

Freak out!

2008-09-15T14:49:00.002+10:00

I was mowing the front lawn and weeding the garden yesterday with the kids outside. (Bella was in her swing and the others on bikes, scooters/walking around.) As we live in a fairly quiet court it is pretty safe for the kids to be outside (as long as an adult is around.) Josh was riding his bike and went to the very end of the court and wouldn't come back... No amount of calling etc. Soon enough, I couldn't see him. After throwing what I could in the garage and the kids in the car I started looking for him. First I went to my brother's old court (2 courts away), then tried one of the local parks. Thankfully I found him there as there was only one other place I was going to check before having a spazz attack and calling everyone for help. Josh had gotton his shoelace caught around his pedal and couldn't pedal anymore and was looking a little "lost". He said as soon as I unwound his foot, "I'm going to time out, aren't I?"I packed up his bike into the car and told him I didn't want to talk to him till we got home. I was fumming! Once we got home I made Josh ring Nat (Daddy) which he was more scared about than going to time out. He hasn't realised that he can't ride his bike for a week yet either.

Christmas decoration?

2008-09-13T09:35:00.005+10:00

Okay so I made a Christmas decoration in September? Weird, organised or procrastinating! Yup, the last one! LOL, I was designing my cards for my November Christmas Club and started thinking about this that and everything else. Mainly prompted by Shelli Gardener's challenge on her blog. I know I am too late to enter but wanted to share it all the same.

Isn't she cute??? Hehe!

Materials list: (All Stampin' Up! products unless otherwise noted)

Stamps: Crazy for Christmas, Simply Sent kit - lifelong notes

Cardstock: River Rock, Very Vanilla, Real Red, Old Olive

Patterned Paper: Dashing DSP

Rub Ons: Making Memories, Doodlebug

Other: Hodgepodge hardware, on board trimmings & accents, black embossing powder, stampin' around markers, dazzling diamonds, crystal effects, brads, ribbon, dimensionals, 1 3/8" circle punch, Nestabilities, paint (Making Memories), misc. beads

Ros

Yet another!

2008-09-12T12:04:00.002+10:00

Yet another scrapbook layout. Very unlike me as I have hardly done any scrapping all year. This layout is about Christmas last year at our house, 5 childrens + 6 adults = presents galore! This year will be the 2nd year we aren't having Christmas at our house (since we moved here in 2002, and I am glad.) Plus we get to go to my SIL's new house a few streets away. Bonus!

Materials list (All Stampin' Up products unless otherwise noted)

Stamps: Crazy for Christmas

Ink: Versamark

Cardstock: Watercolour paper

Other: Stampin' write markers, DMC cotton, black embossing powder, crystal effects, chipbaord word (from Remember When), watercolour crayons

Cheers,

Ros

Remembering

2008-09-12T11:40:00.003+10:00

I was reminded by a US blog that it is the anniversary of 9/11.

I know this may seem odd, but it wasn't until I was in New York, visiting Ground Zero and the main "church" that you really got a sense of of all the emotions. I remember it happening here 7 years ago and it was all over the newspaper, news etc. Nat saw it happen late at night, freaked and tried to wake me and tell me all about it but I was to tired to listen.

There is one thing that never really sunk in with the date of 9/11 until I was riding a bus in New York. I saw a website asking for help and it was http://www.911.com/ with an extension. As the Americans write their dates different to us, September 11th (9/11) written in their format it is actually their emergency response call number, 911.

I honestly hope that no one else in the world has to ever go through that, Bali or anything else again. It is bad enough what the natural disasters can through around without creating "man" made trouble.

Feeling better!

2008-09-11T18:47:00.004+10:00

Okay so now I am starting to feel better and have even managed to find time to create as opposed to laying in bed all the time. This is a layout of Josh with questions kinder staff asked him last December. I still have the classic mother's and father's day ones to do. Must find photos for those as they are so funny.

Anyway, journaling reads:

WHAT IS CHRISTMAS? When it’s Santa time

WHO IS SANTA? Santa Claus

HOW OLD IS SANTA? One

WHERE DOES SANTA LIVE? He belongs at the Sky

WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO LEAVE OUT FOR SANTA? I’ve made a Christmas tree for Santa

WHAT IS SANTA GOING TO BRING YOU? A Thomas DVD

Materials list (All Stampin' Up! products unless otherwise noted)

Cardstock: Garden Green, Green Galore

Patterned Paper: Ki Memories

Stamps: Seasons of Joy, Alphabits

Inks: Pretty in Pink, Purely Pomegrante, Garden Green, Versamark

Stickers/Rub Ons: Making Memories, Gin X

Other: Stampin' writer markers, white embossing powder, 1/4" circle punch, chipboard frame (Buzz & Bloom)

Will be back soon with another post. Won't wait as long as they last one!

Ros

Sick and a father's day card

2008-09-06T22:19:00.002+10:00

Okay so a quick post as I am still not well. Managed to come down with Pleurisy and I feel like s&%t! Not to mention the kids aren’t 100% either. This is something I whipped up while ago and was published in Creative Cardmaking and Papercrafts Magazine along with two other father’s day cards I designed. (This is by far my favourite!)

I actually was in bed until a few minutes ago trying to sleep but then I remembered I hadn’t wrapped my dad’s, father’s day present or written in any of the cards I had made. I can’t sleep if there is something like that bothering me. So up I got and here I am.

Materials list
Cardstock: Whisper white, morning marigold (retired)
Inks: Creamy caramel
Other: Square punches, scanner, Josh’s handwriting, Nestabilities

Take two on going to sleep.
Nite,
Ros

P.S. There is a recent photo of the kids on the "postage stamp". That was just the one I used for publication purposes as it was what I had at printed at home at the time.

Tart & Tangy

2008-09-05T13:39:00.005+10:00

Each month, on our greater "Stampin' Up!" team I set a monthly stamp challenge. This months stamp set was Tart and Tang from the current spring mini catalogue. A card, layout or OTP project can be made as long as it uses the featured stamp set.

Here is what I made...

I just love this photo of Boo taken last Christmas. Boy has she grown and changed so much since then!

Close of up for strawberry stamp coloured in with Stampin' Write markers and with a two way glue pen and dazzling diamonds used on the strawberry "stem".

Materials list:

Stamps: Tart and Tangy (spring mini 2008)

Cardstock: whisper white

Punches: 1 1/4" & 1 3/8" circles punches, scallop punch

Other: Summer Picnic designer series paper (spring mini 2008), a perfect day rub ons (spring mini 2008), anchor rub ons, brads, stampin' write markers, dazzling diamonds, two way glue pen, nestabilities dies

Mummy... are you okay?

2008-09-02T22:06:00.002+10:00

I was having a coughing fit in the meals area before and Drew calls out from his room "Mummy!"

When I got in his room he said "Mummy, are you okay?"

How sweet is that, he is concerned about me coughing when he isn't 100% well himself... Oh my little cuddley boy.

Ros

Free wheels!!!!

2008-09-01T15:36:00.002+10:00

During the whole of September, Stampin' Up! is giving a free co-ordinating jumbo wheel with each purchase of a qualifying stamp set. Did I say free?! I sure did! Some of the stamp sets and matching wheels are my favourite ones.

Book a September workshop with me or e-mail me with your order before the end of the month to make a wheely great deal of freewheeling!

See here for the details from Stampin' Up!

Ros

NAD

2008-08-31T19:06:00.006+10:00

Okay, so I have been home and week and now I am sick again... LOL, I started to get better and then I re-infected myself again. I have spent most of today in bed and most of this past week having two naps a day!

My main reason to post today is to show you what us NAD (non achieving demos) at the incentive trip made. As we weren't allowed to join in with the main make n take group, we held our own. My make n take isn't featured here as it is in one of my upcoming classes.

Magnetic bookmark by Jo Wassens

Tri fold card designed by Jane Reynolds

This layout (and flower card below) were designed by Julia Quinn

I haven't created much else this week either due to no being well but the only things I have created are for the Christmas stamp club. See this post for details. The samples are created only for the Christmas club and won't be shown on my blog.

Off to eat some dinner and rest in front of the tv.

Ros

Still here

2008-08-26T21:54:00.001+10:00

I am still here. Well, home again from Palm Cove but am sick as a dog so will be back with an update and pictures soon. Trying to feel a little better first. Have no voice, a chest infection or something and now something else going on with my head... I've got it all happening!

Ros

Dawn Rapsas

2008-08-23T10:54:00.001+10:00

While I am away, I thought I might feature some of the handmade cards I have received lately.

Today's card is made by Dawn Rapsas http://www.inkeruptildawn.typepad.com/

This card was a complete surprise as I booked in for an event Dawn is co-ordinating and it was sent from USA!

Cheers,
Ros

Claire Graves

2008-08-22T10:51:00.001+10:00

While I am away, I thought I might feature some of the handmade cards I have received lately.

Today's card is made by Claire Graves, a talented demonstrator in the same team as I am.

This card was a thank you for posting swap cards back when a returned stamped self address envelope was forgotten... And it included the cost of postage!!!

Cheers,
Ros

Claire Daly

2008-08-21T10:47:00.001+10:00

While I am away, I thought I might feature some of the handmade cards I have received lately. Today's card is made by Claire Daly, (my upline) http://www.clairedaly.typepad.com/

I love how bright this card is and commented on it at Claire's blog a while ago and when I was sent my 3 ink pads for being the top demonstrator for the last quarter, this card was inside...

Cheers,

Ros

Busy, busy, busy

2008-08-19T10:38:00.004+10:00

Been really busy around here getting ready for my trip away and had my family over for dinner on the weekend and got to see my niece again. She has grown, almost the same height as Bella and there is a 8 month ages difference. Mad clean up before they got here as Chloe is now crawling and Bella is interested in far more things than “what could that be on the floor?” LOL... I was so busy cleaning I ached everywhere when I eventually got into bed. Has something to do with starting cleaning at 6.30am when I just woke up. Yuck!

Requisite photo of all the cousins together...

Drew, Chloe, Nikki, Bella and Josh

Sending out my “early” September newsletter today as I want people to know about the classes and Christmas stamp club before it begins. That and I don’t think I’ll have a lot of time once I get back. It will be rush rush rush again.... Ohhh somedays I love the rush, other days I wish I was on holiday. Thank goodness, I am going on one, as I really could use the break. LOL, but then again, who couldn’t?

Sitting here typing this and looking over at what I am wanting to pack stamping wise and I am wondering how am I going to fit it all in and my clothes and be under 20kg in weight... Hmmm, I hope there won’t be too much culling required!

Anyway, now that I have finished my swaps for the incentive trip, I can show them to you.
Materials list
Stamps: One of a kind, En Francais
Ink: Staz On, Versamark, River Rock
Cardstock: River Rock, Blue Bayou, Purely Pomegranate, Whisper White, Wild Wasabi, Soft Sky
Other: Vellum, black embossing powder, sizzix frame die

Hoping also to schedule some posts of cards made by other demonstrators while I am away.

Cheers,
Ros

September classes

2008-08-16T16:50:00.009+10:00

Waxed paper resist technique class

Thursday 4th September 7.30pm – 9.30pm
Friday 5th September 10am – midday

In this class you will use make a techniques card with instructions that will fit into the Stampin’ Up! on board art journal 5 x 5 using stamps from the Celebrate Everyday spring mini catalogue stamp set and other accessories from the Idea Book and Catalogue. Along with the instructions and techniques card, you will also make 2 cards using the featured technique.

Class Fee: $15.00* which includes all class materials and 2 envelopes for completed cards.

Please note: As I need to order supplies for this workshop, bookings will close off for this workshop at midnight Friday 29th August, and the class must be paid in full by then (50% deposit required when booking unless paying by PayPal). Class size is limited and places will be offered on a first in first served basis.

To book email me at rosoakes@iprimus.com.au or phone 9786 1149. I accept payment by direct deposit or PayPal (I will email you an invoice to pay via PayPal).

Mens and Ladies shirt class

Wednesday 10th September 7.30pm – 9.30pm
Friday 12th September 10am – midday

In this class you will use a mens and a ladies shirt card. The mens card is perfect for holding money, gift certificate, tattslotto, movie tickets etc. in the pocket. Also included in the class fee is 1/5 of a Pretties Kit. (Storage tin not included)

Class Fee: $30.00* which includes all class materials, 1/5 of Pretties Kit and 2 envelopes for completed cards.

Please note: As I need to order supplies for this workshop, bookings will close off for this workshop at midnight Wednesday 3rd September,, and the class must be paid in full by then (50% deposit required when booking unless paying by PayPal). Class size is limited and places will be offered on a first in first served basis.

To book email me at rosoakes@iprimus.com.au or phone 9786 1149. I accept payment by direct deposit or PayPal (I will email you an invoice to pay via PayPal).

Brocade Basics class
4 in 4 class (1 stamp set, 4 ways)

Thursday 18th September 7.30pm – 9.30pm
Friday 19th September 10am – midday

In this class you will use the Brocade Basics stamp set and other accessories from the Idea Book and Catalogue to make a beautiful set of 4 cards perfect for many occasions.

Class Fee: $25.00* which includes all class materials and 4 envelopes for completed cards.

Please note: As I need to order supplies for this workshop, bookings will close off for this workshop at midnight Friday 12th September, and the class must be paid in full by then (50% deposit required when booking unless paying by PayPal). Class size is limited and places will be offered on a first in first served basis.

To book email me at rosoakes@iprimus.com.au or phone 9786 1149. I accept payment by direct deposit or PayPal (I will email you an invoice to pay via PayPal).

* About My Classes:
· All classes are held at my house in Skye. This allows me to keep the cost down and have

everything we need on hand.
· New class members are always welcome. Bring a friend who has never been to one of my

workshops or classes, and both you and your friend will receive a $5 discount on the class fee.
· Classes need to be paid in full by the advertised closing date (this is because I need to order

product for the classes). At least a 50% deposit at the time of booking is required to secure

your place. I accept payment by cash, direct deposit and PayPal. If you pay by PayPal I ask for

class payment in full at time of booking to avoid me being charged double fees.
· Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided. You are welcome to bring your own drinks / snacks if you

prefer.
· Cancellation and full refund will be available up until the advertised closing date for each class.

After that date you are welcome to send someone in your place, but I will not be able to provide

a refund unless I have someone on the waiting list to fill your spot.
· If you can’t make the class time, but would love to do the class, there are two options:
o Buy the class ‘by mail’ where you will be mailed the products and instructions the day after

the in person class has been held. The price will be the same as the in person class, plus

actual postage from me to you.
o Arrange a group of at least 4 people and host the workshop at a time that suits you in your

own home. I will bring the class materials to your home and run the class exactly the same.

The price per participant will be the same as advertised for the classes plus $3 per

participant to cover travel expenses.
· I accept payment by PayPal (full payment at time of booking to avoid duplicate fees), direct

deposit, and credit card.
· Purchases can be made on the day of classes. For any purchases, you will receive a 10% credit

voucher which can be used towards class fees for subsequent months classes.

I just got notified of a new promotion Stampin Up! are running in September. It is the free wheelin’ promotion. Normally I wouldn’t announce things like this before the release date, but seeing as one of the free wheels coordinates with the Merry Merry stamp set which is in the Christmas stamp club by mail I thought it was well worth mentioning. This free wheelin' promotion ends, September 30th! Does anyone want free card instructions, free stampin around wheel and a Christmas stamp set? See the http://rosoakes.blogspot.com/2008/08/christmas-stamp-by-mail-club.html post.

I was going to keep this post all business but then I want to get this down before I forget!

I was supervising Bella in the bath this morning whilst sorting the dirty washing. Drew brought his hard boiled egg into the bathroom (with no major egg shell on it) and I told him to wash any remaining egg shell off in the bathroom (as he can reach the taps at the sink with his stool). Instead, he dunked it in the bubble bath Bella was having to clean it and then complained it was covered in bubbles!!! Seriously, sometimes I wonder how does a two year olds mind think?

Seeing as this is a very long post, I will be ending this here. All I can say is congrats for getting this far!!! LOL...
Ros

BG Boxer card class

2008-08-15T10:41:00.007+10:00

I am teaching a card class at a LSS tomorrow (Debling in Design) using Basic Grey, Boxer 6 x 6 paper pads mainly. These aren't the cards that are being made in the class (I forgot to take photos of those before dropping them off). These are extras showing more ways the Boxer pp can be used.

This card cracks me up, pardon the pun... Probably because Bella has recently learnt how to say "cheeky" only she says it is "cheek-ee" and so I must call this card, "cheeky" for that reason. Even Nat had a bit of a laugh over it and that is not something he does often about my cards!

Materials list:

Stamps: Poste cartal

Ink: Close to cocoa, blush blossom

Cardstock: Blush blossom

Patterned paper: Basic Grey 6 x 6 paper pad

Other: Sponge daubers

A male happy birthday card with a tie... Inspired by my FIL, really. He works from home but never dresses up like that for working from home! He's a trackies man in his office. I just loved how "officey" the grey pp looked and went with it.

Materials list:

Stamps: Occasional Greetings
Ink: Going grey, basic black

Patterned paper: Basic Grey 6 x 6 paper pad
Other: Sponge daubers, Basic Grey buttons

My take on the US "onesie" going around... I can't remember what I called these suit things when the kids were small (and it wasn't all that long ago) so I am naming it a baby suit for now! LOL...

Materials list

Stamps: Unfrogettable, Short and sweet

Ink: Basic black
Patterned paper: Basic Grey 6 x 6 paper pad

Other: 1 3/8" circle punch, scallop punch, brads

Taking it easy here today. Kids in childcare and I managed to sprain my ankle yesterday nice and good. My armpits are so sore from the crutches I am hobbling around as much as possible and pushing myself around on my craft chair the rest of the time... LOL, at least I can put a little weight on it today... This is what I get for going outside when it is raining to put recycling in the bin!!!!

Cheers,

Ros

P.S. Back soon, well maybe tomorrow with pictures of my next card class I am teaching from home.

Christmas Candle

2008-08-13T20:42:00.004+10:00

Okay so I am back to Christmas creations again!!!

Today we have a Christmas candle using stamps from the spring mini again (how I love it!!!) from the Season of Joy & Celebrate Everyday sets. Also used were the stampin' around markers and purely pomegranate double stitched ribbon. Yet another item I love. So glad I got the huge 48 colour pack! Never spoiled for a colour choice.

Been busy working on my FK entry. Was beginning to look like I wasn't going to get time to finish my entry as I am a super slow scrapper, I go away in one (yes ONE week) and still have swaps, packing and errands to run before that!

Best be off, house is quiet as the kids are all finally asleep and I don't want to spend all night on the computer!

Ros

Christmas Stamp by Mail Club!

2008-08-12T22:11:00.010+10:00

I am excited to be able to bring you a brand new Christmas Club. You can be a local customer or one of my many, many, long distance customers. These clubs are for people who don't have ready access to in person classes and clubs at a time that suit them, or who prefer to work from home on projects themselves.

Here's how my versions will work:
This club will be operated entirely by mail/email and will run for three months commencing Tuesday 2nd September. Each month you will get at least 6 step by step card and gift tutorials projects designed by myself and my talented team, so that's 18 projects in total! We will be using three stamp sets:

Merry Merry
Season of Joy
Lovely as a Tree

(If you have one of those sets, don't worry as you can substitute any merchandise of the same value)

You can choose 2 options:

Option 1: Up Front: Purchase the 3 stamp sets upfront in one purchase and have the stamps sent directly to you from Stampin' Up! With this option you will receive free postage, so save yourself $17.85. In addition I will give you a free gift of 12 sheets of 6x6 assorted Christmas double sided designer series paper, and 12 Christmas tags stamped by me! This option will cost $146.85.
You can purchase this at any time after Tuesday September 2nd, right up to Christmas! You can also choose each month to purchase a matching embellishment pack for $10 which will be sent separately (as the stamps will be coming direct from the Stampin’ Up! warehouse). The embellishment pack will contain matching ribbon, cardstock and brads for your project but you are under no obligation to purchase this part if you have things at home you can use.

Each month I will email you at least 6 step by step projects (so you will receive at least 18 projects all up!) using that set and the matching embellishments. These projects will be exclusively designed by myself and my talented team (why get samples from one stamper when you can get them from several?) and won't be featured on our blogs. Please note that you are not paying anything for the ideas/instructions that come with this club. Option 2: Month by month: With this option, you are just committing to buy the current months stamp set, and can decide on a month by month basis if you want to buy the sets and projects. With each month you purchase, you will receive at least 6 step by step tutorials for Christmas cards and gifts.

September: (Merry Merry Set and FREE All about Christmas Jumbo Wheel if you purchase by September 30th). $45.95 plus $5.95 postage and handling = $51.90 plus optional $10 embellishment pack.

October (Season of Joy). $51.95 plus $5.95 postage and handling = $57.90 plus optional $10 embellishment pack.

November (Lovely as a Tree) $48.95 plus $5.95 postage and handling = $54.90 plus optional $10 embellishment pack.

All payments can be made by direct deposit, PayPal or Credit Card.

Interested in either of these clubs or have further questions? Email me today at rosnat@iprimus.com.au or call, and I will get the paperwork straight out to you!

Cheers,
Ros

P.S I'll be back tomorrow with a creation!

Sunday scraps

2008-08-10T17:29:00.005+10:00

Today's card is made using the level 2 hostess set, spring solitude. I love this set and how the cute little birdie looks. Okay, so I have a thing for cute birdies like I do for owls.

Materials list:

Stamps: Spring Solitude

Inks: Only orange

Cardstock: Whisper white, wild wasabi, only orange

Other: Stampin' Around markers, tempting turquoise grosgrain ribbon, chocolate chip satin ribbon (spring mini catalogue), fire rhinestone brads, circle punch

Left over materials and a few extras used to make the tag.

Others: Jumbo eyelets, wild wasabi double stitched ribbon, tag punch

Off to check on my children, they are a little too quiet and after an episode with yogurt just before I am not prepared for another mess! Picture 3 bowls of yogurt, children supposedly eating them, yogurt some how ends up on 2 coats, which weren't being worn, yogurt on the floor near a bedroom, yogurt on a bedroom door (both no where near the kitchen) and yogurt bowls in the bathroom sink along with a chase of who can touch who with their dirty yogurt spoon. Thanks kids, that what I get for trying to do a blog entry. Now you might guess why I usually try to post at night time!

Ros

Punched owl!

2008-08-08T20:47:00.001+10:00

I saw an owl made using punches on a US blog from the recent convention they had for Stampin’ Up! (in the States) and I loved it so much I had to re-create it. Truth be told, the main reason I purchased the “Celebrate Everyday” stamp set from the spring mini catalogue was because of the owl stamp in it! Terrible aren’t I!

So consequently I have been playing around with punches the last couple of days. My owl is a little different to the picture I saw because well it wouldn’t be ‘mine’ if I didn’t put my own touches on it!!!

Materials list
Ink: Chocolate chip
Cardstock: Chocolate chip, basic black, very vanilla, whisper white, only orange
Punches: Boho blossoms, 1 ¼” circle, ½” circle, ¼” circle
Other: Sponge daubers

Off to put the kids in bed and get ready to watch the Olympics opening ceremony.

Night,
Ros

A layout! OMG!

2008-08-07T10:18:00.002+10:00

I had a business call on Tueday night (same night as my dummy saga, I’ll get to that in a minute...) and I said on the phone that I had forgotten how to scrap! Shock horror as I have done only 15 layouts THIS year (plus one mini album.) So I decided to set myself a task of scrapping and use no Stampin Up products or very minimal. I hit the Making Memories stash pretty hard as most of the products are from MM.

Photo of Josh and Nikki taken in May 2005, whilst holidaying in Albury for their Great Gran’s 90th birthday.

Materials list
Cardstock: Bazzill
Patterned Paper: Making Memories
Ink: Stampin Up – Creamy Caramel, Palm Plum, Perfect Plum
Other: Making Memories rub ons & chipboard hearts, Heidi Swapp ghost shapes & photo corners and Stampin’ Up! rub ons

Tuesday night of course Drew didn’t want to settle as I had the business phone call. He must have sensed my anxiety or something. Josh had a sleepover at Nanna’s after the hand surgeon appointment (no more visits required for the moment) and the girls were asleep. Drew managed to lose his dummy somewhere in the house (still hasn’t turned up) and wouldn’t take any other dummy I’d offer him. (I even took Nikki’s dummy off her whilst she was sleeping and tried him with that!) I was at a loss what to do, with Nat at work and my phone call in less than 15 minutes I was frantically searching the house (for the damm dummy!) As soon as Drew got her desired dummy he was off to sleep in a flash (thank goodness) as I was at the end of my rope with him.

Obviously, I have been struggling with coping the last few days (especially yesterday). Many people aren’t noticing (I think) as I do a pretty good job covering it up when I try to but it is a lot easier to let it all out especially when it is just you and your thoughts.

Ros

Crazy, game or just plain stupid???

2008-08-06T11:22:00.002+10:00

Okay so I don’t know if this game or stupid or both but I am not long home from taking the kids to the shops by myself. Not just any shops, Aldi AND Coles... As I am typing this I am beginning to think I am crazy as the kids behave like kids or feral monsters at the shops when all together and I can’t split myself 4 ways to chase after them. Part of me wanted to get out of the house (and Bella had NO nappies left) and the other part of me was going stir crazy. Nat suggested I wait until he wakes up from sleeping and then go, aside from having no nappies, I was going to go crazy and I am hoping for a nap when he is awake before he leaves for work.

Toady's project isn’t a card, but more of a box type thing, which I actually call a “popcorn box” as that is what it reminds me of. I am not the original creator of it, Diana Gibbs is. I just loved the shape of it and how it gave me a chance to work with products from the new mini (yet again).

Materials list
Stamps: One of a kind (spring mini catalogue)
Cardstock: Really Rust, River Rock, Wild Wasabi, Chocolate Chip
Ink: Chocolate Chip
Other: Apple cider dsp (spring mini catalogue), wild wasabi double stitched ribbon, round tab punch, jumbo pewter eyelets

Thankfully Bella is asleep right now and the older kids are outside as I need more than 5 minutes worth of piece from them right now.

Ros

Todays mini catalogue card...

2008-08-05T20:02:00.003+10:00

Todays mini catalogue card is yet another Christmas card... Nothing like getting ready early for Christmas (or at least trying to). This is a card that I made for part of the “Art with Heart” team swap I was organising. We each made 12 cards and got 11 different cards back plus one of our own. There is some amazing cards swapped I can assure you. I must try and hunt down some links from the other girls for you so you can see what they did.

Materials list
Stamps: Celebrate Everyday, En Francis
Cardstock: Always Artichoke, Whisper White, Purely Pomegranate, Kraft, Old Olive, Mellow Moss
Ink: Versamark, Basic Black
Other: Stampin’ Write markers, black embossing powder, nestabilities

I am amazed at how well the card photographed considering it was in a plastic sleeve (all taped up) and stuck onto a canvas for display.

Best rush off and settle Drew into bed, have a business meeting phone call in 20 minutes and I need him to be asleep!

Ros

Tags for all

2008-08-02T22:00:00.004+10:00

Blogger ate my post. Grrr, so super quick re-type as I am trying to have an early night and catch up on much needed sleep.

Todays mini catalogue card

Materials list (all Stampin' Up! products used)

Stamps: Tags for all (spring mini catalogue)

Inks: River rock, always artichoke

Cardstock: Whisper white, always artichoke

Other: Holiday harmony DSP (spring mini catalogue), chocolate chip satin ribbon (spring mini catalogue), linen thread, brad.

Had a workshop today with some lovely ladies and we made a super simple but stunning blokes card. Will take photos and share soon.

Nite,

Ros

New mini catty!

2008-08-01T02:35:00.004+10:00

So it is August 1st and time for a new mini catalogue. I have a few new projects to share but I will spread them out over a couple of days, just so it all lasts a little longer before I make time to make more projects.

Todays card is howl old?

Materials used

Stamp set: Celebate everyday, rough edges mini alphabets

Cardstock: Brilliant blue, chocolate chip, close to cocoa, creamy caramel, only orange, whisper white

Ink: Basic Black, basic brown, close to cocoa

Other: Styled silver hodgepodge hardward, google eyes

Mini catalogue can be viewed online at http://catalogs.shoplocal.com/stampinup/index.aspx?pagename=storefinder&storeid=1039381 or I am more than happy to send you out a copy.

Cheers,

Ros

P.S. It is some absurb hour (nearly 3am) and I really should be in be, but I can't sleep. Figures!

Sponging card

2008-07-29T19:06:00.003+10:00

Just a quick post with a sponging card today, using Lovely as a tree. I made this one a while ago. I have made a few cards lately but they feature things from the new mini catalogue. I will endeavour to take some sneak peak pics to post before August 1 and I can show you the finished product.

Cheers,

Ros

Colour challenge card

2008-07-23T22:14:00.003+10:00

Here's a quick post with a card I made for a colour challenge we had over at our Stampin' Up team. Orginal idea is by Jen Glendineng but I loved it so much I had to CASE some of it.

I am so tired probably because I have been pulling late nights again. Finished my swap cards for the spring mini catalogue swap. Will take photos and post soon. If anyone is not on my mailing list and wishes to be sent a spring mini, e-mail me today!

Materials list

Stamps: Sanded background

Inks: Taken with teal, Pink Passion

Cardstock: Taken with teal, Basic Black, Whisper White, Pink Passion

Other: Tag punch, word window punch, brads, tafetta ribbon

I dyed the ribbon (orginally white) with my pink passion ink pad... So good when you don't have the right coloured ribbon. Dried it with my heat gun and let sit for a few days.

Ros

Birthday celebrations

2008-07-20T19:26:00.005+10:00

Been very busy here with birthday celebrations... Photos of gifts and cards to come. Just had to share the card I made for Josh and a picture of him and sheer determination in riding his brand new bike he got for his birthday...

Materials list - All Stampin Up products except screw brads

Stamps: By land, wonderful favourites, short order numbers

Cardstock: Basic black, whisper white

Ink: Whisper white

Patterned Paper: Summer Picnic (available August 1st in the Spring Mini Catalogue)

Other: Linen thread, Stampin' Write markers, Hodgepodge hardware, screw brads (source unknown)

Back with more again soon.
Ros

Lolly bags!

2008-07-16T21:42:00.004+10:00

I've been busy making lolly bags for son to take to kinder for his 5th birthday. I "had" to get them done today between my birthday, family gatherings and Josh's birthday there is no other time between now and Monday. I love how they turned out.

I CASED most of the idea from the catty (pg. 5) and altered where needed. The tag (hidden mostly) by the boho scalloped circle has my details printed on it saying “handcrafted by, Ros Oakes, independent Stampin’ Up! demo, phone number & blog. Also behind that the skinny sage shadow strip says “no artificial colours or flavours in the lollies” as they are all natural confectionary stuff and plain milk chocolate (and things my son can eat. He is on an additive and preservative free diet.)

Materials list:

Stamps: Boho backgrounds

Cardstock: Close to cocoa, very vanilla, creamy caramel, sage shadow

Ink: Chocolate chip

Other: Tag punch - large and small, small star punch, 1 1/4" 1" & 7/8" inch circle punches, brads.

Cheers,

Ros.

Painting and other goings on

2008-07-14T19:12:00.007+10:00

Been busy painting here at home. Well, Nat has, I've been trying to stay awake (sleeping issue) and keep the kids entertained (and not touching wet paint.)

Josh had his bandages removed on friday. He still has the stitches in and they will disolve eventually. I had a check up with the pysch re my meds, which have been altered slightly. Hopefully going to work on the axiety more... Thats the major problem right now.

I run my technique class (split negative) on Thursday night with some lovely ladies. Here are the two cards they made. There are some spaces left in my next technique class (black magic), running August 7th 7.30pm - 9.30pm and August 8th 10am - midday

Off to play with some new stamps from the mini catalogue which is released August 1st. (They are really yummy images and ALL die cut.) For those not on my mailing list and wanting a copy, drop me an e-mail so I can get one out to you.

Cheers,

Ros

Catch up... Long-ish post....

2008-07-09T21:11:00.007+10:00

So it has been really busy around here the last week. I am not really sure with what, but I tell you, it has been. I do know that it has been my MIL's birthday (and we had the family over to celebrate...) Thanks Kris for the yummy cheesecake, now remember, I want a caramel one for my birthday.... (Fiona, you might need to remind her! LOL)

I know I've had a Stampin' Up! business meeting... We ate some yummo food.
I've had a horrible sinus/head cold infection that is finally going away after what feels like two or more weeks.
Had a workshop for a high school friend who lives in Caroline Springs... A slight drive from Skye, especially when driving home quite tired and the Monash Freeway is down to 80km or less most of the way.

Bella has spit out some new words, this last week...
Said “Look” and pointed at the same time.
Said “out” while watching the kids play outside (and standing at large window in rumpus room). See picture below...

Had dinner with my grandmother for mine and Josh’s birthday. Was lovely to see her as always, have a great dinner with mum and the rest of the family and see how close my knitted jumper and crossover are to completion. Oma (Grandma) knitted them for me but mum is going to sew them up... I CAN’T knit! I get cramps in my hands and lose far too many stitches. LOL

Made some cards and a layout/card for my MIL’s birthday... A complete lift from Loretta Grayson’s, National Scrapbooking Day one over at 2Peas.... Had a ball doing if all the same and my MIL loved it.

Have a technique class tomorrow night (after Pilates) so will share those cards on Friday. Class is split negative. Still have 2 spaces remaining if anyone is interested.

Nikki had her tonsils and adenoids removed yesterday. I am suffering from severe lack of sleep as I didn’t get a nanna nap today like I was planning on... (My dad came over with family history on his father’s father side... I think... back to early 1700’s... Also has some photos which I scanned and am considering attempting to do some heritage scrapbooking... OMG, a style I DON’T do!)

Nikki is doing okay most of the time except for when she wakes up from sleeping in huge amounts of pain.... I was totally glad for the morphine they gave her last night I tell you...

Best get my butt moving off this chair before it gets too late and no scrapping gets done. I’ve got lots of ideas I am wanting to do for the FK awards but finding the time is difficult...
Ros

Start your own business with no risk!

2008-07-02T13:33:00.003+10:00

$299 to start your own business with no risk! Now that's something.

Stampin' Up! have just announced a special offer on the already great value starter kit! Between 1st July and 15th August, it will only cost $299 to become a demonstrator and you still receive over $560 value in your starter kit - that's a huge 46% saving!

I will also be including a new demonstrator special myself, which is your choice of a set of watercolor wonder crayons or a background stamp for free.

On top of all that, these are the must have reasons to join Stampin’ Up! in July...
$25 off Starter Kit, which includes stamps and ink pads of YOUR choice
The start of a new quarter ($500 minimum needs to be met by December 31st)
Mini Catalogue just around the corner (begins August 1st)
Christmas is also just around the corner
The next quarter is SAB and Retirement List
8 free mini catalogues in your kit
The next mini will be mailed to you free (and first!), so will sale-a-bration brochures.

So act now and e-mail me on rosnat@iprimus.com.au to discuss this further.

Hospital "excursion"

2008-06-27T07:50:00.002+10:00

Yesterday Josh was supposed to go on a kinder excursion to Monash Medical Centre. He was super excited (as young kids are) and was going "shhhh" all the time as they were told to be quiet. That obviously got boring as he decided to climb the gate to the "secret" garden which has barb wire twists at the top. He was right at the top and I pulled him down. He now has a huge big cut in his right hand (and his is right handed) from 1cm down from the top of his little finger to about 2cm short of the end of his hand.

We rushed straight to the doctors, who sent us to the hospital fearing tendon damage. The doctors looked at the letter the accompanied us and said "he needs to see a plastic surgeon." So that is where we will be today...

Nat was furious that Josh was climbing the gate (as he is a monkey and a 4 year old money at that!) and I feel so responsible. If I had of waited for him to come down instead of pulling him off the gate, maybe none of this would have happened... and then Josh would have got to go on his excursion instead of the private one we recieved yesterday and today.

Ros

Peed Off!

2008-06-20T14:46:00.002+10:00

I got some cards accepted for a Father's Day feature and I missed the deadline of getting the work into them. How, I missed the e-mail I have no idea! Talk about cranky. I have contacted the magazine and hopefully they still have time but I am still really cranky.

I have a card to share but am too lazy (and cranky to photograph it now.)

Nikki's getting her tonsils and adenoids removed next month. Oh the dramas.
Ros

New card

2008-06-16T14:02:00.005+10:00

Time for a new card, one of the cards from my techniques class last week. I usually try to do both a feminine and masculine card using the same technique so people can see how versatile it is.

Been a busy weekend for me, 2 workshops. Oh but I love it... Only Nat has worked all weekend as well plus overtime on Friday night so it has been a made house here... and the house looks like a bomb has hit it! Got another 2 card classes this week on Friday and Saturday so more fun for me.

Doing tours of the local primary schools for Josh at the moment. Having the final one tomorrow then deciding where we are enrolling him. Nat's car is currently being fitted for gas so we are down to one car which makes things interesting.

Gotta go and clean some of the mess up before the kids wake from their naps. Then they have to vacuum up dry macaroni they split on the floor in 3 (yes, THREE) different areas of the house. Good thing Bella is at childcare as I don't need her eating it!

Ros

Guarantee Policy

2008-06-11T10:08:00.003+10:00

I had a customer contact me in regards to some stamp pads she had ordered during sale-a-bration which were defective and didn't work correctly. I'd like to just point this out to all those readers out there that if you purchase any Stampin' Up! products test them out before the 90 day period is up. If the product is faultly they can then be replaced. See the below listed "guarantee" paragraph which has been taken directly from the back of the customer order form.

We guarantee products to be free from manufacturing defecrs for a period of ninety (90) days after the shipping date. Missing items, incorrect shipments, and edfective or damaged merchandise must be reported to your demonstrator and received by Stampin' Up! within ninety (90) days of the shipping date to obtain a replacement. This guarantee does not cover merchandise damaged through accident or misuse. If you should require assistance please contact your demonstator.

After the housekeeping :) here is my latest card... Using circle of friendship stamp set (yet again)...

Materials list:

Stamps: Circle of Friendship, Pick a Petal

Inks: Old Olive, Pretty in Pink, So Saffron, Taken with Teal

Cardstock: Old Olive, Whisper White

Other: Petals and Paisleys double sided paper, White grosgain ribbon, horizontal slot punch, 1 inch circle punch, 1 1/4 inch circle punch, Nestabilities scallop circle dies

Cheers,

Ros

New creation!

2008-06-08T20:02:00.005+10:00

Finally a new creation. I made time today to sit down and get stuck into things. It helped that the oldest 2 kids had a sleepover at Nanna's house and that I wasn't in the emergency room at Frankston hospital with Drew. (He bleed from his tonsils surgery so Wednesday evening/Thursday morning was very long!) It's healing well but if it happens again (hopefully it doesn't, he will have to be admitted to Monash Medical Centre for a few days

Today's card uses another stamp from the circle of friendship stamp set (from the eScape bundle). I also used it on another card but that has to wait until tomorrow as the photo was blurry since Bella was trying to get in the picture and take the card.

Without further ado, here it is!
Materials list: (All Stampin' Up! products used)
Stamps: Circle of friendship, Baroque motifs
Ink: Sahara Sand, Soft Sky, Whisper White, Old Olive
Other: 1 3/8" square punch, 1" circle punch, 1 1/4" circle punch, sponge daubers

Thanks for looking.
Cheers,
Ros

Newsletter week...

2008-06-04T13:13:00.005+10:00

So it's newsletter time again. I posted all the snail mail ones out already and am doing the e-mail list today. If anyone wants to be on my mailing list, contact me so I can add you.

Haven't had time for creating as I was struck down with a 24hr bug... So bad when the mummy of the house gets sick. I spent most of yesterday in bed or on the couch. All better today except I am tired.

Just a quick creation to share, a get well tin, modelled off a Campbell's soup tin... Maybe I shouldn't have made this and then I wouldn't have gotten sick? Uses some of the things from the eScape bundle (see this post for details)

I opened the ring pull tin upside down with a can opener and now it is perfect to fill with get well soon remedies to give to someone this winter.

Materials used

Item # Description Price
106549 Whisper White cardstock $13.50
111852 River Rock cardstock $10.50
106561 Basic Black cardstock $14.50
Circle of Friendship stamp set see eScape bundle
101179 Basic Black ink pad $9.95
1-1/4” circle punch see eScape bundle
104401 1-3/8” circle punch $30.95
109046 1” circle punch $20.95
109061 Purely Pomegrante double stitched ribbon $16.95
109167 Rose Red Prints Designer Series Papers $11.95
105826 Mat pack $18.95

I best get off here, I have spent far too much time on here today already. That is what I get for looking into facebook.... Opps!

Ros

Two promotions & a wedding!

2008-06-01T10:54:00.006+10:00

I had a friend's wedding to attend on Friday, that is my excuse for lack of blogging. I had a great time catching up with my high school friends, having a few drinks, chilling and staying the night so not having to worry about driving home or the children.

Here is the card I made for Kelly & Damien.
All products by Stampin' Up! except for the punch used for the cake's icing (Fiskars)
Stamps: Voila a la carte, occasional greetings
Ink: Basic black, versamark
Cardstock: Whisper white, almost amethyst, lovely lilac
Other: Stapmin' write markers, Black embossing powder, pretties kit, grosgrain ribbon, corner rounder punch

Stampin' Up! have a new promotion running this month (well TWO actually). First one is, eScape PROMOTION. Plan now to join Stampin' Up! during the entire month of June in breaking free from the 'e'! Stampin' Up! has designated 25 June 2008 as eScape day. A day in which, you put away your mobile phones and laptops and focus on reconnecting with your "wireless network." Even though there is a designated eScape day set, celebrationa are happening all throughout June.

Stampin’ Up! are offering a terrific eScape bundle with products at 25%.
eScape Bundle (item 113705):
Description Page Number Price
Love Notes assortment p. 132 $13.50
Circle of Friendship stamp set p. 112 $33.95
1-1/4" Circle punch p. 142 $30.95
Total (non-bundled) $78.40
eScape Bundle price $58.80

The second promotion is, the EXTRA, EXTRA promotion. From 1 June to 15 July, Stampin' Up! hostesses can earn an EXTRA $50 to use toward Stampin' Up! products of their choice when they host a workshop totaling $700 or more!
This extra benefit is included along with the standard hostess benefits you normally receive when hosting a workshop.

The standard hostess benefits include
A free Idea Book & Catalogue 2008-2009 worth $12.95.
Free stamp sets only available to hostesses (with qualifying orders; select from the products on pages 17-24 of the catalogue).
Free Stampin' Up! products of your choice.

With a workshop total of $700 you earn $80 in free Stampin Up! merchandise and with the bonus $50 extra extra promotion you will have $130 to spend for free instead!!!! Obviously the greater the workshop total (over $700 before postage and handaling) the greater free money you have to spend.

This extra hostess benefit is only being offered for a limited time, so contact me TODAY to schedule a workshop as I have limited vaccancies left!

I am quite tired here from my late night on Friday but also because Drew now has an infection that is slowing his tonsils recovery... One very unhappy boy that is misrable most of the time!

House is nice and quite, so I'm wondering if I can sneak in a little creating!
Ros

One layer card

2008-05-29T21:30:00.005+10:00

So this is the card, finally. The one layer card I have been waffling on about.

Stamps used: Lovely as a tree
Inks: Basic Black, Close to Cocoa, Soft Sky
Other: Stampin' Up! markers, clear ep, Versamark pen, linen thread

Drew is doing better but still quite cranky. More time for an update tomorrow. Trinity and Susannah are on!

Ros

Quickie!

2008-05-27T06:16:00.003+10:00

Just a quick post before I leave to take Drew to the hospital. He is most upset that he can't have breakfast or milk as he really wants. I haven't managed breakie yet either so I am going to have to see if I can sneak it in!

Made a new card last night, one of my favourites (isn't anything new.) It was too late to photograph it so tomorrow will have to do. It is a one layer card. Something completely new for me!

Drew's crying at my feet now, must go.

Ros

Spotlighting again!

2008-05-26T04:39:00.003+10:00

Yet another spotlighting card. This time using the bbq from BBQ basics. I love how simple this card is... and how easy it was to make. See the shadow under the bbq, I love to do that, but rarely do. Wonder why?

Materials list (all items by Stampin' Up! unless otherwise mentioned)
Stamps: Backyard BBQ, Pure & Simple alphabet (retired)
Cardstock: Whisper white, basic blackInk: Basic Black, Real Red, Sahara Sand
Other: Circle punches, large oval punch, ribbon

Aside from being an early post from me, it is 4.28 in the morning and I can't sleep! Nat's poker game finished an hour ago and I heard everyone leave so I got up to help clean up and now I can't sleep. Tempted to go and watch Grey's & Brother's & Sisters from last night, but then there is nothing worse than falling asleep in the middle of the tv show to be awoken but small ones 5 seconds later (or so it seems!)

Cheers,
Ros

P.S. I more than likely won't post tomorrow as Drew is having his tonsils & adenoids removed and I am staying overnight in hospital with him.

Stipple rose...

2008-05-25T16:32:00.003+10:00

Todays card, is spotlighting technique with the stipple rose stamp. I love this stamp and how elegant it is and not to mention, how simple this card is!

Materials list, all Stampin' Up1 products except for ribbon and oval frame (Making Memories)

My apologies for not posting a card yesterday (and I was going so well on the daily posting) but I had a workshop and DH has been frantically cleaning for his bbq, pool & poker night this evening so of course I had to help. Not allowed to make mess now so don't think I will get to create a card this evening... :(

Ros

Palete o' Prints popularity!!!!

2008-05-23T16:45:00.003+10:00

Direct from the Stampin' Up! website today... The Palette o' Prints promotion has been a huge success! Thank you so much for your support in promoting this special offer. The promotion has been such a success, in fact, it is surpassing our forecasts by more than 100 percent! Because of this, we are anticipating that our inventory of Palette o' Prints pads is going to run out before the promotion ends on 31 May.

Unfortunately, we are not able to print more pads; we apologize for the inconvenience. At the current pace, we will most likely run out in five days. We will post another current update when the entire inventory has been depleted. Thank you for your understanding.

Todays card is one I made for my sister's bf. His birthday was late last month but he only just got his card. I have used retired Stampin' Up! (Treehouse) double sided paper for the card as it just look so much like boxers to me. I can't take the credit for the design either I found it in a recent card magazine... I did alter it to make it more mine and added real stitiching as it wouldn't be a "me" otherwise...

I do have one final 6 x 6 set of Treehouse papers for sale on ebay. User id ROS780. I also have a mini matchbox Geelong car set from 12 years ago if anyone is interested. Last but not least, the final stock of my in color cardstock from 2007/2008 idea book and catalogue.

Cheers,
Ros

Thursday's card

2008-05-22T16:58:00.003+10:00

Firtsly before showing you Thursday's card. Let me tell you, I haven't made anything new today seeing as I went shopping to pick up some meat for dinner and stopped by a store that had a lovely dress. Not only did I buy a dress and sirt but I will be able to wear one of them to my friend's wedding next week and have a choice of three outfits from purchasing two items! Noice! Depending on what I wear means I need to work on my jewellery but all is good...

Here is is! It certainly wasn't the card I was orignally sharing today as I think it needs something but I am currently locked in the study (YES, I did type LOCKED IN...) Very hard to make business calls sometimes in my house...

Uses all Stampin' Up! products including boho basics (a new fav) and some of the new cherish rub ons!

Ohhh I have been unlocked now, I wonder if that is because of the screaming I can hear!

Ros

I've created!

2008-05-21T10:25:00.004+10:00

I've created and it felt so good! I made 5 cards yesterday (3 of one design) and tried a new technique out. I have actually been working on some more cards on Monday for mag work, but have to wait and see if they are accepted for publication. I will spread the card share out so there is something pretty to look at in each post! *grin*

This card is done using faux tiling. It will be my next techniques class, being held at my house (in Skye) Monday, June 9th (yes, Queen's Birthday long weekend) at 10am - midday and 7.30pm - 9.30pm. You will create 2 cards and one technique card with envelopes provided for $15.

Card is straight IRL! & a close up of the tiling!

I've been a busy girl organising this morning (my word for 2008, see this post). I have not only dealt with piles of washing (dirty and clean and put it away) but always went through the kids toys etc. and are donating lots to Diabetes Australia. Things they have grown out of, excess stuffed toys (some from when I was a teenager!) and the usual stuff like that. So nice to see the house looking tidy (minus the floors needing a vacumn and mop) but then it doesn't usually last too long before the kids make a mess with toys again.

Off to play and maybe create some more I hope.

Ros

P.S. Any bookings or questions for my techniques class, you can e-mail me on rosnat@iprimus.com.au or call me on 03 9786 1149.