Pink Poppy Craft Box

Lenses For Hire

2011-03-21T20:22:00.000Z

Just posted on Deborah Jane Photography, please take a look.

Blue Moon

2011-03-18T22:50:00.003Z

Hi all

Just posted on my photography blog. Please take a look.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 53

2011-03-17T08:39:00.000Z

Hi everyone.

It's time for another Truly Scrumptious challenge. The theme this time is a TAG. You can make a tag on its own, or incorporated into a card or other project.

I've chosen to make a rather masculine card with a favourite leaf stamp. I've spritzed the tag with different colours, including some mica powder based spray.

Here's a close up of all the colours blended together. If you want to have a go, then pop over to Truly Scrumptious and take a look at what the rest of the design team has done.

Photography Session

2011-03-14T09:08:00.000Z

Hi there.

Please take a look at my latest photography session on My Photography Blog. I'm just starting up my business, and am hoping you will help me get the word out there.

Thank you.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 50

2011-02-02T22:40:00.001Z

Hi everyone....it's time for another challenge from Truly Scrumptious ....

We have a lovely sketch for you today, and a great prize.

I've used a pink and green theme for my card, with a rather lovely tree stamp and adding some pink gems for a little sparkle.

I added flowers from Prima topped of with roses. Why not have a look at what my team buddies have made, and get some inspiration to have a go yourself.

Take care and happy crafting.

First Official Newborn Shoot

2011-01-25T01:03:00.000Z

Hi all.

Well here I am again with my latest project. I still dabbling in the photographic area, and with a willing subject I'm having a great time.

So today I got together with my Daughter-In-Law and little baby Grandson to do my first proper newborn shoot. I have been patiently waiting for the opportunity to do a proper shoot, as it's something I'm really considering in branching out in on a more professional level.

I've been doing a alot of research over the past few weeks, and think I'm ready to give it a 'shot' now. I went over to my Daughter-In-Laws home with my camera, and a little equipment, and had a really productive session. I'm really pleased with the outcome, and thought I'd share a couple of shots with you today.

I'm so proud of these shots, and have another session booked on Sunday, this time to include Daddy...my very proud son.

Thank you for visiting me today. I would love to hear your comments.

Precious Baby

2011-01-17T10:51:00.001Z

Hi all

I managed to take a few photo's of my Grandson Harry yesterday. It didn't quite go how I wanted it too, but I got a couple of nice ones. I prefer to photograph in daylight, but didn't manage to do that, so I got that mean colour cast you get from tungston lights, on top of blurred images from a slow shutter speed. However. I'm pleased with this shot I'm posting today.

I used The Coffee Shop actions: Eye Bright and Creamy Chocolate B&W again. I just love this action, it has a lovely warmth to it. If you want to know more about The Coffee Shop, I have a link on my side bar.

Now I'm after doing a few more baby shoots in a more artistic style. I might offer free sessions for newborns to get some practice. Thanks for taking the time to visit me today.

More Action

2011-01-15T19:15:00.000Z

Hi all.

Today I'm showing a photo that I took of my Granddaughter, Nicole, a few months ago....It's another one that I've been experimenting with Actions from The Coffee Shop Blog. I think the main thing with actions, like most things, is understanding how they work. Once you've done that, then you can adjust the settings and layers to your liking. Easy!!!! Well not quite, but I understand more about them today, that yesterday.

So....The one I've used today is Creamy Chocolate B&W....It doesn't just convert your photo to black and white, but also adds a faint creamy/chocolate tint. You probably can't see the difference on this shot alone, but against a simple black and white one you can. I love it......

I used the Eye Bright action first, then the Creamy Chocolate B&W one. I absolutely Love the result.

Tomorrow I'm going to do a photo session with my newest Grandson....3 week old Harry. I hope it's successful.

Getting Creative With Photoshop

2011-01-13T09:24:00.001Z

Hi all hope you are well.

I'm starting to play around a bit more with Photoshop CS2. I've seen so many lovely photos that have been successfully enhanced using lots of different techniques.

Recently I came across a blog called The Coffee Shop. It's run by a lovely and very talented lady called Rita. Now Rita is also very generous....She writes actions for Photoshop and lets you download them for FREE...how good is that.

Anyway, as I'd seen so many beautiful shots using her actions I thought I'd try and work through one of them. I downloaded and installed EYE BRIGHT. Now I've never used actions before myself, and I can tell you it was not easy to get my head round it at first. However, now I think I've got it, and can't wait to try more. I do need a bit more practice with this one, but at least I'm on my way now. Here's what I did:

As you can see, this action has made quite a dramatic difference to the eyes. They really POP now. I've still got a way to go before I really get the best out of it, but I think this is not bad for my first attempt. If you love photography, and want to learn more about Photoshop, and actions, then check out Rita's blog.

Thanks for tuning in.

Truky Scrumptious Challenge 48

2011-01-05T08:00:00.008Z

Hi all.

It's time for another challenge over at Truly Scrumptious, and we have another fabulous sketch for you, with the optional theme of 'Dreaming Of Summer' and a fabulous prize up for grabs too.

So get out your stash, and have a go.

I turned the sketch round 90degrees and here is the result.

I've used this Magnolia image of Edwin riding his bike. There's nothing quite like enjoying summer bicycle rides, I just love them. I've used Edwin because I needed an image that would suit my grandson....it's a card for his birthday later this month....hope he likes it.

I used a punch by Stampin' Up! for the leaves, and added some dots of liquid pearls to resemble simple flowers....don't want my grandson to think it's a girls card now do I? He'll only be six, but you know how funny they can be even at that age. I added a sun button that I've had ever since I started papercrafting, which adds that last touch of summer....lets hope we get lots of sun when summer eventually comes.

Thanks for looking

Bye for now....

Debbie xx

Baby Layout

2011-01-03T12:59:00.000Z

Hiya

Hope you're all having a good day.

I've begun my spring cleaning after taking down the Christmas decorations...Hardly anyone keeps them up until the twelvth night anymore, we tend to want to get them down and start cleaning.

Anyway, I've used my couple of days off to do a little crafting, and thought I'd try to get back into scrapbooking a bit more, especially as I love photography so much. I have to say it's a short post, although you'll pehaps be glad of that....I'll let the photo's say the words.

So here's what I did:

I'd be glad to receive your comments, and if there's anything you'd like to know, then please don't hesitate to ask. Thanks for visiting me today.

Mojo Monday 171

2011-01-02T14:24:00.000Z

Hi all

Well I'm back with my first card of 2011. I've followed the Mojo Monday sketch challenge this week. It's a great sketch as you get to choose a round or square design.

As my eldest daughter is celebrating her 30th (can't believe I have a daughter that old) birthday today, this one is for her. And as her birthday is in the middle of winter, I thought I'd make it a wintery card using cold blue's with a touch of caramel.

I've used a mix of stamps for this one. The lovely Miss Anya from The Greetings Farm for my main image. She's coloured with Copic markers which I love. Grunge stamps from Stempleglede form the borders, stamped with Creamy Caramel ink from Stampin' Up!

The Prima flowers are decorated with some chunky Twinklets glitter from Hobbycraft just around the edges...almost as if they've caught a bit of frost. The leaves are from a Sizzix die, and the flourish from a punch. I added a little Glossy Accents to the edges of the leaves too.

Enjoy the rest of your day, and thanks for visiting.

Let Me Introduce You....

2011-01-02T00:43:00.000Z

Hi everyone.

Well here he is....my brand new Grandson Harry George. Born on 26th December 2010 at 8.59pm, weighing in at 8lb 10oz. A perfectly healthy beautiful boy. I'm so lucky. That makes four grandchildren for me now.

When I first saw Harry I thought he looked just like his dad....My son Paul....so I dug out a photo of Paul so you could judge for yourselves....It's not that great a photo as it was taken by a very old basic camera, but I think you can see enough of a likeness. It'll be interesting to see how Harry develops, and if he stays looking like his father.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T19:53:00.001Z

Hi everyone.

Sorry it's been a while....I've been working so hard, I've hardly had a minute to think. I'm going to make a conscious effort to be a better crafter/blogger in the new year. I've let things take me away from what I really love doing, and I miss all you guys, so I'm coming back.

Anyway before I do I want to end this year on a high, and wish you all a very Merry Christmas. I am eagerly awaiting the birth of my fourth grandchild. He's already ten days late, but it looks like it could be within the next 24 hours now, so I'm really excited. I'm crossing my fingers for my lovely son and daughter-in-law, and praying that everything goes well for them.

I'll post some pics when the baby finally arrives, then I'll be starting some projects in the new year. No doubt some of them will contain baby photos.

The photo is from part of my Christmas tree this year. It's only a small tree (3ft), but I love the decorations which were all new this year.

Take care

2010-11-05T23:28:00.011Z

Hi there.

For the past year I've been attending a local dance class specialising in UK Smooth, and run by Mr Dave Plummer. It's a most enjoyble pastime, and good excercise as well as great fun.

So when I had a recent house party, I invited along some of my dancing buddies, along with Mr P the choreographer. Here's a little video of us at my house. It's a bit close and you can't see a full length shot, but you can see how much fun we're having.

Enjoy.....

Thanks for watching

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 44

2010-10-27T08:00:00.017+01:00

Hello everyone.

It's been a while since I posted a card, so apologies for that...I've been busy with non-crafty stuff, and then I was ill, so no crafting for a while.

BUT...

Now I'm back with a fantastic challenge from Truly Scrumptious. We have a fab sketch with the optional challenge of including petals, pins or pearls. So with this in mind, I've used pearls and petals, but alas no pins.

The photo's not that good as I took my shots after dark, but at least you can get the idea.

My gorgeous little image is by CC Designs, and I just love it. This card is only 4" x 4" so it's quite small, but perfectly formed...I hope you'll agree. All the papers, cardstock and inks are from Stampin' Up!, and the image is coloured with Copic's.

If you want to have a go at our challenge, then pop on over to the Truly Scrumptious challenge blog where you find all the details.

Final Note On Stampin' Up!

I do love Stampin' Up! products, but for now I had decided to step down from my demoship. I have other things going on which means I don't have enough time to do everything I want to. I may go back in the future, and I will still keep using SU products as I do believe in them. Thank you to all those that supported me during the last year.

2010-09-26T09:44:00.000+01:00

Mmmmmm.....never been good with excercise or diets. Hate that I've piled on the pounds tho.

Walking the dogs, standing up all day at work rather than sitting, and dancing has helped to shed a few lumps and bumps.

Forgot I have one of those 'sit up' rocker thingys, you know, it's supposed to make sit ups easier!!! We found it when we cleared the shed out, cold and shivering, unused, and unloved, covered in spiders webs aaaahhhhh. I'm making friends with it now, in the hope of being a nifty fifty. Wish me luck. xx

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 41

2010-09-15T08:00:00.003+01:00

Hello everyone, and welcome to my blog.

If you've been here before, thanks for coming to see me again, and if this is your first time, have a good look around, I hope you enjoy what you see.

Now on to this weeks challenge with Truly Scrumptious. We have another great sketch, with the option of using blue and green. So that means another card from me very much in the same style as the previous one.

Another great image from Kenny K. I'm just loving these images. They're so versatile and very different to any others out there. I coloured the image using my Copic markers, and I used stamps from Stampin' Up!, Magnolia and The Stamp Man.

The glitter is from Stampin' Up! and the flowers from Prima. I added a couple of flower gem centres, and a diamante gem on the necklace.

Why not pop over to Truly Scrumptious to see what the rest of the design team have done. Then perhaps you'd like to join in with us, you could win our fantastic prize.

Take care, and thanks for visiting me today.

Sketch Saturday week 119

2010-09-06T15:00:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone

Well it's my day off today, so I thought I'd have a little 'me time' and spend a couple of hours crafting. It's so long since I've really joined in with any challenges so I thought I'd go on a little search for one to keep me busy today.

So I decided to join in with the Sketch Saturday one. It's a fabulous sketch, and as it's my daughters 17th birthday this Wednesday I thought I'd better make a card for her.

So here it is:

I've used one of the images from Kenny K. This one's called Mad Skillz and I love it. I think it's perfect for teenagers, and since my daughter Sophie loves to sing, then I'm sure she'll love it too. I downloaded and coloured it in last night, and went a little off course with the eye shadow...oops.

I love these Tiny Tags stamps from Stampin' Up! too, along with the punch, they're great bunched together like this. I saw this idea on Sarah's Card Oasis blog . Thanks for this fabulous idea Sarah.

I made the flower with layers punched from the retro flower punch, then I inked and glittered the edges of the petals. It is quite bulky, so I'm going to make a box to put the card into.

Please leave a comment if you wish and thanks for taking the time to visit me today. Happy crafting.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 40

2010-09-01T08:00:00.001+01:00

Hi everyone

It's another happy Wednesday and time for another challenge from Truly Scrumptious. Along with our sketch you have the opportunity to include a know somewhere in your design.

I've gone with a pink and green theme today and made a card possibly for someone who has done well with a driving test.

I'm loving this l'il Beetle. What an iconic car. I'm also loving lime green at the moment. My laptop is lime green, and I'd love a lime green car, so as I can't afford one I thought I'd make this card instead.

Here you can see the windscreen and headlights are glossed over with Glossy Accents. The colouring is done with Copic markers and the large flowers are from Prima, with small roses from in the centre.

Why not have a look at what the rest of the design team have created for the challenge, and if you have a go yourself you could win a fabulous prize.

Thanks for taking the time to visit me today, and happy crafting.

2010-08-30T19:33:00.002+01:00

Hi all and I hope you have enjoyed the weekend.

I've been to Sir Stampalot today, to see my friend Chris who was demonstrating with some Christmas goodies. She had on show the most wonderful advent calender creation. I'll be making one very soon, so watch this space. I also managed to catch up with a few other friends too including Crafty Lou, Fleur, Bridgette, Louise and Amanda (get that blog going girl), (apologies if I've missed anyone out). It was so great to see you again girls.

Now my reason for posting today is to show another one of my photo sessions, albeit a very short one. I captured a beautiful dragonfly that landed in my garden today. I Sprinted inside to get my camera, and this is what I got.

I just love these close-up photos. Aren't they fabulous creatures....a little ugly sometimes, but beautiful and wonderous in other ways.

I've had a great day today, so thank you to everyone who has made it special, and thanks to you for taking the time to visit me.

Take care.

Wall Hanging Book

2010-08-23T11:00:00.010+01:00

Hi there.

Hope you're all ok and enjoying some crafty time. I've certainly been busy this week. You may have seen the photo's I posted of my daughter Sophie & her best friend Becca a few days ago. Well I loved the photos so much, I decided I needed to do something with them other than view them on my laptop. So I decided to put together a little collection.

I didn't know whether to make a book or some sort of wall hanging. So I decided to make a hanging that would fold down into quite a small kind of book, each page only measures 4 1/2" x 3 1/2". I wanted to incorporate some stamping, and here's where I used that Perfect Pearls mica power I mentioned in the last post. You can just see it shining gold very sparingly. But it just catches the light and adds something extra.

I linked the pages together with jewellery jump rings so it folds down quite easily. I'm very pleased with the result.

The cardstock is from Stampin' Up!. The stamps are by Stampin' Up! Hero Arts and Stampendous. The flowers are by Prima. Thank you for looking.

Visage

2010-08-22T15:42:00.001+01:00

Hi all

Hope you're all enjoying the weekend. It's lovely and sunny here in Peterborough at the moment, which is a joy. I've got a little gardening on my agenda for later, but now I have a card to show you.

The stamp was a free one from the September issue of Craft Stamper and comes from The Stamp Man. I love it, it's so sophisticated. I've been doing another project using these colours, as well as Perfect Pearls mica powder in gold, so as I already had them out I thought I'd might as well use them. I think they work a treat.

This photo shows the beauty of the gold mica much better. I highlighted the eyes with an opaque white gel pen to add a little life to them. I used a little sheer organza ribbon wrapped around the image to add a little mystery. I am pleased with the result. Have you made any cards with free stamps? Thanks for looking.

Photoshoot

2010-08-20T00:03:00.001+01:00

Hiya

I just thought I'd share a few photo's of my daughter Sophie and her best friend Becca. I took these last weekend at our city park. The girls wanted a photoshoot that they could look back on and share memories of their friendship in years to come. Here's just a few of the 500+ shots I took.

There was rather a lot, but I hope you'll forgive me. I still love my Canon camera. It's one of the best investments ever....memories to treasure forever, Thanks for looking.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 39

2010-08-18T13:10:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone, I hope you are well.

We have another fab sketch challenge for you over at Truly Scrumptious this week. There is the option for use buttons, brads or bows if you wish.

So without further ado, here is my design team card:

This card is obviously for a man called John, who is going to be 60. It's actually a comission. I'm not too good at mens cards, I always struggle to find something appropriate, but I hope this is ok. The photo's are not too good this time, I think the lower light levels don't help now the days are getting shorter.

So my main supplies are from Stampin' Up! and as you can see the colours all match. I used the stamp set On A Pedestal. The cardstock and ink colours are Old Olive, More Mustard and Not Quite Navy. Good mens colours I think.

Why not pop over to Truly scrumptious and take a look at the rest of the design team cards, and see what you could win if you enter our challenge this time.

Take care.

Sending Donkey Smiles.

2010-07-27T19:28:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone. Hope you area all well.

It's been a while since I joined in with a challenge blog just for fun, but I thought it was about time I got myself back in the game. When I started to look at the current challenges going on, one in particular grabbed my attention, and for a very good reason.

Over at A Spoon Full Of Sugar they've been having a card drive for Michelle after a tragic accident which resulted in the loss of an eye for her. The challenge actually officially ends today, so I thought I'd just about squeeze this little design in.

The cute little donkey image was produced by two of the Whimsy Stamp articts as a freebie for this very special challenge. In return for this very generous gesture, they have set up a facility via Paypal whereby you can make a donation to help with the mounting medical costs that Michelle is facing. This tragedy will obviously change her life dramatically, so please take a look at how you can help.

I used alcohol markers to colour the image, and all the cardstock is from Stampin' Up! as is the background stamped flowers and the '4 You' sentiment stamp.

If you would like any information about Stampin' Up! or would like to order any products, I will be happy to help. Just drop me an email at afewstampsmore@btinternet.com

Take care now, and thank you for visiting.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 37

2010-07-21T08:00:00.003+01:00

Hi all, hope you are well.

Are you ready for another Truly Scrumptious challenge? Well before I show you my card, I'd like to welcome Mandy, Lisette and Debbie to our design team, I hope you join me in welcoming them. Thanks to everyone else who joined our design team call, I wish you every success in the future.

Now on to the challenge. This week we have a sketch from our lovely Dawn. You have the additional option of using something recycled on your card too. There is a fabulous prize up for grabs so why not pop along to the Truly Scrumptious Challenge Blog and take a look at the rest of the design teams work for inspiration.

Here's my card:

I downloaded one of the images from the fabulous Kenny K. These are fab, funky images, really current and young. I love them, they're great for young people. I coloured the images with alcohol markers, and used designer papers on a background of Brocade Blue from Stampin' Up!

I used a little Crystal Effects on the ice-cream to make it look even mouth-wateringly delicious, then sprinkled a little Dazzling Diamonds glitter into it. Yum Yum.

My re-cycled part is the little beaded dangly charm. This came from an old Avon necklace I bought several years ago. I always felt it was too short and never wore it. It's perfect in it's new position.

I'm very pleased with how this card turned out. If you would like to know more about my design, or would like any information about Stampin' Up! please feel free to contact me. Many thanks for visiting, and happy crafting.

2010-07-18T12:05:00.003+01:00

Hi all

I do hope you are all enjoying your weekend. It's been ages since I had a truly crafty weekend, but that's just what I'm doing this time. As I work full time, have a family, pets, dance, and run classes and Stampin' Up! workshops, I've been finding it very difficult to fit everything in that I'd like to do. You know, some quality 'me' time. So I decided this weekend, would be for me.

My middle son has now left home, so I have a spare room. Well guess what....it's not spare now. Yep, I've been turning it into a much needed craft and chill out room for myself. I've been busy cleaning, painting, looking for storage (Ikea here I come) and surfing all your blogs to pinch the best ideas. I just have to go out and buy the furniture now. I'll post some photos when it's all done, so others can pinch my ideas too.

But for now, I've set up home, moved my craft stuff in, and as much spare storage that I have, my small tv/dvd player, ipod and docking station, and I'm as happy as a 'pig in muck'. It's still in a mess, but at least it free's the dining table up.

So on to my card. I was asked to make a card for a colleagues sister. It'll be her 60th birthday soon. Now I do like making special cards, but sometimes find it difficult 'fill' a large card. I turned to the very talented Kath for some inspiration, by visiting her blog. Well she had an amazing 60th birthday card on there, which gave me the start for my card. So thank you Kath, you're an amazing crafty inspiration.

I've used a mixture of flower images, stamped in Stampin' Up! ink. The colours are More Mustard, Creamy Caramel, and Apricot Appeal. The cardstock is from Stampin' Up! too. The text background is En Francais from SU and is embossed with white embossing powder. The card base is Blush Blossom. I love this effect just using stamps and no designer paper, something I'm not always comfortable doing. But thanks to all those who inspire, especially the aforementioned Kath.

Have a good day, and thanks for visiting.

Help The Aged - Knit A Hat

2010-07-15T08:44:00.002+01:00

Calling all you knitters out there. If you like helping charities, and can knit, then this is for you. Here in Greater Peterborough we're being asked to knit tiny hats for Innocent small drink bottles (not old people). For every one sold 25p will be donated to Help The Aged in this area.

Now I know you area a generous bunch, and can think of ingenious ways to make your creation unique. So if you have a little spare time, and a small ball of wool I'd love if you could join in. I'm willing to co-ordinate the donations, and if you would like more information and free patterns, the follow the link below.

http://www.acpeterborough.org.uk/Fundraising.htm

I've already made one, and they take no time at all. I'm going to make lots more to help the charity reach their target of 10,000.

If you are intrested in comitting to this worthwhile cause, then you can leave a comment on this post, or email me at pinkpoppycraftbox@btinternet.com so I know. Thank you for your time xx

Papercraft Classes In Peterborough

2010-07-04T11:38:00.004+01:00

This post is staying at the top of my blog for now. Please scroll down for latest posts.

My first class will be held on Sunday July 4th at 2pm-4pm with a repeat on Monday July 5th 10am-12noon. The cost will be £10 per person, and all materials will be provided.
The stamp sets we will be using are:

Flight Of The Butterfly

Bloomin' With Beauty
and the colours:

Perfect Plum, Pale Plum and Old Olive.

Spaces are limited so you need to book by emailing me at

afewstampsmore@btinternet.com
or phone

077 634 19822

and leave me a message with your contact details.

Take care

Birthday Boy

2010-06-22T21:23:00.001+01:00

Hi all

Well what an absolutely gorgeously sunny day today. That's what summer should be like. It's my youngest's birthday today. Jordan is going to be fourteen close to midnight. He's fast changing from my 'baby' into a young man. Mind you, his favourite pastime, besides his BMX bike, is playing Band Hero on the Wii, so he's not quite into the man brigade yet.....or is he. lol xx

Anyway, I wanted to capture something that relates to him, and I think this card is perfect.

I wanted a really grungy, rock look, and I think I've achieved it. All the cardstock is from Stampin' Up!...I distressed the edges of the cardstock. and used lots of CloseTo Cocoa ink to give that grungy look. I embossed the guitar with moonglow embossing powder so it looks all glossy just like jordan's real guitar. Used embossing folders for the punched out stars, just to give interest, along with some rivets from Stampin' Up!

There's quite alot going on in this card, and I think it maybe looks better in 'real life'. But I hope you get a good impression of it anyway. It's hard doing teenage boys cards, and not making them too cute or babyish. Jordan liked the card anyway, so that's all that matters. Thanks you for taking the time to look.

My next task is to make a card for the flowers I've chosen for my brother-in-laws funeral this Friday. He was only 59 years old. Rest In Peace Brian, you will be sadly missed.

Fathers Day Card

2010-06-19T13:00:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone.

What a bloomin' cold and windy day it is here in the east of England. What happened to summer????

So I'm indoors today, which means I've been able to get on with my fathers day card for my dear daddy. I love him to bits, and make him a special card every year. It's a challenge coming up with something different every time though. Like most cardmakers out there I find it difficult making mens cards. All I knew was I didn't want a cutesy image. So I trawled through my stamps and came up with something that I liked.

I chose blue and green as I think they always look good for male cards. Although I chose flowers for the main image, I don't think it's too feminine. At least I hope my Dad doesn't think it is. The stamps are by Stampin' Up! and Hero Arts. The patterned paper is from K & Co and the cardstock and inks from Stampin' Up! again.

Here's a closer shot of the stamped details. You may not be able to see I added the tinest whisps of glitter to the flowers. But you can see the dewdrops I added to the edge of the circle.

I even decorated the inside of this one. I wrote my (private) message along curvy pencil lines, rubbing them out carefully afterwards. I love the finished card, hope you like it too.

Take care.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 34

2010-06-09T08:05:00.001+01:00

Hi everyone.

I'm much more prepared for this weeks Truly Scrumptious challenge I'm pleased to say. I still have stuff going on in the background, but am finding a way to cope.

So on to this weeks challenge. We have a fab sketch designed by our very lovely Beth....thanks Beth.

The optional extra, if you feel like it is to use checks or gingham in your design.

I always think baby cards go well with checks and gingham, so this is what I decided to make:

It's a teeny tiny card measuring just 4 inches square, perfect for a birth announcment. I used papers from a Designer Mat Pad by Brenda Walton for Kay & Co. The Little Cotton Rabbit image is perfect for this card with his little nappy.

The sentiment is by Whiff Of Joy and the buttons are Stampin' Up! I coloured the image with my Copics, and used a white gel pen for highlights. The ribbon I bought from my local garden centre....where I work incidently.

Hope you'll find time to visit us at Truly Scrumptious this week.

Thanks for visiting today, and happy crafting.

Debbie xx

Oops

2010-06-08T08:28:00.000+01:00

Almost posted tomorrows Truly Scrumptious challenge by mistake. Apologies if you are a follower and you got a quick flash of it. You'll have to come back tomorrow to see it.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 33

2010-05-31T14:02:00.001+01:00

Hi Folks,

I'm so late posting this so please accept my apologies. I've had lots of work and family issues to contend with including some very bad news.

However I won't go into that just now, so without further ado, here's my design team card for the Truly Scrumptious challenge this time.

It's based on our sketch which has been supplied by the very talented Mina. I've used one of the Gorjuss Girls images along with a couple of Stampin' Up! images and some faux doodled stitching.

I'm doing hand stitching on my cards just lately. I love needlework anyway. I have since I was a child so I thought I'd incorporate a little more into my papercraft. I added a little glitter for some sparkle to lift it.

Sorry it's such a short post. I have such a lot to do on my one day off.

Why not pop along to the Truly Scrumptious blog and take a look at what you could win if you play along.

Take care,

Debbie xx

Adopted Husky

2010-05-19T10:11:00.000+01:00

Hi all

No cards today, but just thought I'd show a photo of Kia, my adopted husky. She's a seven year old who my brother had from a puppy. He found himself in circumstances where he could no longer keep her. Initially I was looking for a home for her, but couldn't find one in time, and didn't want her to go to a rescue centre.

So I told my brother to bring her over to me from where he was living in Wales with the intention that I would continue to search for a home for her. I already have a Shih Tzu and three cats, and didn't think they would settle with her.

But lo and behold things went much better than expected and within a week I already decided she was going to stay. That was back in March. Things just keep getting better and better between the animals, and the two dogs can even be found sleeping together from time to time.

She's a beautiful dog and gets admiring looks wherever we go. She's such a people magnet. The staff in the local pet shop adore her, and always make a fuss of her. So I thought I'd just share this photo I took of her yesterday. Hope you like it. If you have a pet you're proud of leave me a comment or link to a photo, and I will pop over and take a look.

Take care, and thank you for visiting me today.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 32

2010-05-12T19:46:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone.

Hope you are all well and enjoying your crafty moments.

It's time for another challenge from Truly Scrumptious. A fantastic circle themed sketch this time.

Here's my design team card using a gorgeous Magnolia Stamp.

I'm actually very pleased with this card. I love making easel cards, and decided not to use any design paper, but let the stamping do all the work. I used Stampin' Up! white Craft Ink on the Old Olive cardstock. It's great for darker coloured card.

I defined the edge of the circle by stitching in crochet cotton. The sentiment stamp is also from Stampin' Up! I finished up with some paper flowers, buttons, gems and punched butterflies.

Why not have a go at the challenge yourself, you never know, you may win a fantastic prize.

May Garden

2010-05-10T20:51:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone

Well no cards to show today, but I do have a photo collage of some of the plants in my garden at this time of year. It's been such a cold winter that the plants have been a little delayed this year. However, now they are saying hello to the warmer weather by showing their faces to the sun. There's a lot more to come yet, but for now this is what I've got.

How are your gardens doing?

Another Wednesday Challenge

2010-04-28T08:00:00.029+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Wednesday to you.

It's time for another challenge from Truly Scrumptious. We have a fab sketch with the option to create a hidden message. Sound interesting? Well why not pop over to the Truly Scrumptious blog and take a look for yourselves.

This is my take:

I loved using the sketch, especially putting in a hidden message tag. The beautiful Basic Grey papers were perfect for the look I wanted to create. The main image is coloured with alcohol based pens.

The hidden message is from the Simply Said stamp set by Stampin' Up! as are the subtly stamped flower images. I've added paper flowers with button centres at the end of the Stampin' Up! ribbon.

The pearls were added to finish off. I'm sure this is a sketch I will use again and again. Why not have a go yourself. You may win a fabullous prize, which this week is from Crafty Individuals.

See you soon and happy crafting.

Truly Scrumptious challenge 30

2010-04-14T08:00:00.016+01:00

Hi all, and happy Wednesday to you.

It's that time again, my, it comes around so quickly. I hope you're going to join us for another Truly Scrumptious challenge. We have a wonderful sketch from Mina with the option to use April Showers as your theme.

Here's my contribution to the design team this time:

Well there's no April showers yet but Miss Anya has her umberella ready just in case. As it's spring, I've punched out some leafy branches using Stampin' Up!s new Two Step Bird Punch, (which for UK crafters, is available to order for £13.50 + P&P. Just drop me an email if you would like further details)

I'm afraid I'm a little out of practice with using my markers, coupled with the fact that I used the wrong card to stamp on. As a result I have a little bleeding around the edges where the colours change, oops. Better luck next time eh...

Why not take a look at what you could win from Truly Scrumptious if you play along.

Take care and happy crafting.

BMX Photo Session

2010-04-10T18:09:00.007+01:00

Hi all

Well it seems like spring is well and truly reaching us here in the sunny eastern side of the UK. The leaves are finally emerging from their winter protection and bursting forth into the warm sunshine. The birds are singing, and the insects are waking from their winter hibernation.

I'm itching to improve my digital camera skills, and learn more about my Canon SLR. So with that in mind, and the fact that my son Jordan bought himself a new BMX bike a couple of weeks ago, I thought I would have a photo session with him today.

I wanted to capture him taking some jumps from ramps at our village skate park, so here are a couple of shots I took.

The ramps have been tagged by local graffiti artists, and there is a custom made graffiti wall that the village youths can decorate. A good idea as they can show off their art work, and whether you like it or not, I personally do think it is art. And at least it's here, where it's allowed and not over buildings in the village. Anyway, I thought it was a urban good background for Jordan and his friend Emma to be photographed against.

Not quite David Bailey yet, but I have learnt a little bit more about shutter speed, and how to freeze action without blurring the shot. I am rather pleased, and want to do more and more now.

I'd be interested to hear your comments good or bad. Let me know if you've taken any interesting shots and I'll pay you a visit to take a look.

Take care

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 29

2010-03-31T08:44:00.001+01:00

Hi everyone.

We have a cold wet morning here in Peterborough. The dogs had a quick walk this morning instead of their usual extended one.

If it's raining.....or snowing where you are this morning, you may like to play along with our challenge over at Truly Scrumptious this morning. It's a super sketch challenge with the added option of interpreting our theme of 'Fly Away' in whichever whay you wish.

Here's what I've done:

I kept it fairly simple in soft blues and greens, with punched shapes and a just a little stamping. I used Glimmer Mist on the blue card layer. You can just about see it. Have fun...

Stampin' Up! Mini

2010-03-27T09:05:00.001Z

Hi everyone, I hope you are all well. My gosh, I'm not getting much time for this blogging lark just lately as you have no doubt noticed.

However, today I have got something to show you. The following cards use the BRAND NEW Vintage Vogue stamp set, and the fabulous Extra Large Two Step Bird Punch from Stampin' Up!s latest mini catalogue. I hope you enjoy looking at them.

If you would like to order any of the products used, or would like to know more about Stampin' Up! please email me at pinkpoppycraftbox@btinternet.com and I will be pleased to help.

Thanks for looking

Love Debbie xxx

A Special Weekend

2010-03-15T10:38:00.001Z

Hi all, and happy Monday.

Well you may know that here in the UK we celebrated Mothers Day yesterday. But you won't know that it was my son's birthday on Saturday. I can't believe how quickly time flies. He's 26 already, my gosh. I'm so very proud of him. We had a fabulous evening over at his house with his wife Jess, and daughter Ellie. Pizza, wine and films. A good old family evening, it was lovely, so thanks Paul and Jess, it was lovely. We'll have to do it again.

Oh and I forgot to mention the gorgeous chocolate cake for desert, yum yum. I think I captured the moment perfectly in this shot by turning my flash off.

Mothers day next, and Paul and Jess came up trumps again. They bought me a beautiful bouquet of flowers and card. Thank you so much. I love flowers and these are gorgeous.

They also gave us a photo from their wedding day. It is beautiful, the both look gorgeous and it's captured a lovely moment. I absolutely love, love, love it.

Thanks you guys, for making it a special weekend. Love you lots xxx

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 27

2010-03-03T08:00:00.004Z

Hi all.

It's time for another Truly Scrumptious challenge again. We have another super sketch bought to you from out talented design team member Dawn. You also have the option to make your card "good enough to eat" so it would be good to use your foodie stamps, although it's not obligatory. I thought I would definately go with the food idea, as I do enjoy food, and love anything sweet.

So....with that in mind, I've used a fabulous cupcake image from Magnolia.

I've use a delish pink and green colour scheme with glitter on the bow, and glossy accents for icing. Yummy!!!

Good enough to eat. You can join in this yummy challenge by visiting the Truly Scrumptious blog. Thanks for visiting. Happy crafting.

Mini Books

2010-03-01T16:45:00.002Z

Hi everyone.

You may have noticed that I haven't been posting much just lately. I've kind of spent a lot less time crafting, and more time blogging, then with full time working and family time thrown in there too there's not much time to spare.

However, whilst I have been visiting all your lovely blogs, I've become very inspired by those of you who have been making mini books. When I first started in papercrafts, it was with scrapbooking, which then evolved into cardmaking. I now have a love of both. With this in mind I thought what a good idea to combine both by making mini books. I get to use all those lovely papers, photo's of my lovely family, my favourite rubber stamps, and lots of embellishments.

I am in awe of the very talented Laura from Following The Paper Trail and so inspired by her mini books that I thought I'd give it a go. I've been making a mini book using one of her ideas with envelopes. Thankfully Laura has many videos to help with design and construction, so it's not hard to follow along.

Here's a little taster of the mini album I'm working on at the moment.....

Looks like I've chucked on just about every type of embellishment going, but I love it, and that's all that matters.

The flowers are of course by Prima, and I've tried to match them to the colours of the Basic Grey papers, with the touch of fiery orange to brighten the whole thing up, I've got buttons, brads, charms, gems and a cute wooden bunny with a fluffy white bob-tail glued on. I've hand-stitched around the inner edge of the circle cut out, which is stamped with a beautiful delicate floral stem from Inkadinkado. The card is from Stampin' Up!

Here's a peek at the inside, not all the pages are finished yet, but that's not a problem, I don't have to do it all at once.

I've used lots of different stamps from different manufacturers, it all adds to the interest. I've just gone with the flow, and mixed mediums, materials, accessories and tools to provide, hopefully, an interesting book that will make you want to discover more with each turning page.

There are even hidden tabs with more secrets to discover as you go on.

I love making this book, because I can pick it up at will and carry on where I left off. It is very much a work in progress, and when I get the urge, I just do a bit more. This way I don't feel under pressure to complete it within a timescale like some of the challenges around. This makes the time more enjoyable, just like it was in the beginning. And if I come across a new technique, I can incorporate it if I want. I've even bought a little lidded basket that I can keep multiple books in ready to show visitors if they are interested.

I do intend to make more, I've even bought some papers ready for my next project, and may even think about putting some kits together for sale if there's enough interest. I think these books would make perfect presents.....the only trouble is....I might have a job parting with them!!!

I hope you've enjoyed a glimpse of this project. I'll post some more soon. Thanks for taking the time to visit. If you have any comments or have made mini books yourself, I'd love to hear from you. Take care now.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 26

2010-02-17T08:00:00.003Z

Hello everyone, and welcome

Its Truly Scrumptious Wednesday again....BUT.....not any old Wednesday....no...it's a very special day for us...it's the first birthday of our fantastic Truly Scrumptious challenge blog.

Wow I can't believe we've been here a whole year....fantastic. Thanks to everyone who has joined us over the past year, we hope you'll continue to join in the challenges we set. Special thanks to my design team buddies, who have helped with fantastic challenges, and stunning cards.

We have a stunning sketch over on the Truly Scrumptious blog with a fantastic prize up for grabs. Here's what I've contributed this time:

This image is super cute, and is on my card courtesey of Fleur - A Passion For Craft, who kindly loaned me her stamp. I just love it. He's sitting up rather than laying in my card, which is probably completly the wrong angle, but hey, it's too late now.

The butterflies are made from shrink plastic. I love the idea of using it on cards, and am completely inspired by my friend Louise at Crafty Lou's Small World, who is the queen of shrink plastic. Take a look, I promise you won't be disappointed.

Thanks for taking the time to visit, why not have a go at our challenge this week, and see if you are lucky enough to win our super prize.

Mojo Monday

2010-02-11T10:33:00.000Z

Hi all

Hope you are having a good day.

Seeing as my mojo is beginning to return at last, I thought I'd join in with the Mojo Monday challenge this week.

It's a fabulous sketch as usual, so here's my entry.

I love this little chap swinging on a rope swing. The stamp was kindly loaned to me by my lovely friend Fleur, thanks hun.....Reminds me of my son Jordan, he used to get up to those kind of things. Great for boys cards.

The card, papers and background stamps are by Stampin' Up!

Sorry my posts have become rather short these days, working full time again, and not alot of spare time. Thanks for looking, and I'll catch up with you again soon.

Take care.

More Photo's In The Woods

2010-02-09T20:38:00.001Z

Hi

Here are some more photo's of my crafty weekend in the woods.

Hope you like the photo's. I'm off to do some crafting now I'm getting my mojo back.

Take care

Craft Weekend

2010-02-07T22:08:00.002Z

Hi all

I've just some back from a super crafting weekend in a log cabin in the woods with eight of my crafty friends. It was so cool. We had a fab time, crafting busily away, watching dvd's, drinking wine, taking photo's, walking in the woods and generally having a good old laugh.

I'll have more to show soon, but for the moment, here's a photo I shot this morning.

I'm really pleased with this photo. I crouched for ages on soggy wet leaves, snapping away with my Canon EOS 450D, The shutter noise didn't seem to bother this pheasant, it just kept pecking away happily in the undergrowth. I'm working on the other photo's, so they're not ready yet, but I'll post a few more when they've been edited.

Photoshop

2010-02-01T01:00:00.000Z

Hi all.

No cards to show today but I do have a photo that I've been editing in Photoshop. It's a shot of my son and his best friend at our local nature reserve last summer. Thought I'd do the popular technique of highlighting a portion of the photo, but instead of highlighting in colour, I've done it in reverse.

The background is colour and the subject black and white. I love this effect. Let me know what you think.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 24

2010-01-20T11:39:00.002Z

Hi all and happy Wednesday to you.

It's time for another challenge from Truly Scrumptious. This week we have been inspired with a super sketch from our lovely Nicole. The optional extra this time is to add stitching to your design. Ooops....I forgot this part, so I have absolutely no stitching whatsoever to my card. Still it is optional so I'm ok.

So here's my design team entry for this one.

The card is from Stampin' Up! and the paper is stamped with a variety of images all by Stampin' Up! to add more interest. I coloured with alcohol markers and added a little glitter in the background.

I added some blinged up paper flowers, and punched scrolls to finish.
Why not pop on over to Truly Scrumptious and take a look at the rest of the teams work, and see details of what's on offer to win this time.

Mojo Monday Week 121

2010-01-17T14:27:00.001Z

Hi all.

It's been a while since I've really felt like crafting, but my mojo is returning little by little. I thought I'd join in with the Mojo Monday challenge this week. As Valentines Day is not too far away, I thought I'd make a card with that in mind.

I actually used one of the Magnolia Halloween stamps, but thought it would double as a hot little love devil. The base card is from Stampin' Up!, as are the background and text stamps. If you want more details of how you can get them, just drop me an email.

I added a little red glitter to the trident. Tildas tail's got a little heart on the end of it, but I exagerated it by punching a heart with a punch from Stampin' Up!, stuck it on, and covered it with glossy accents. Hope you like it. Maybe you can adapt your stamps to make them fit other occasions too.

Take care

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 23

2010-01-06T20:26:00.001Z

Hi all

Hope you're no too snowed in. We've been lucky and only had a light flurry in Peterborough, and no settlement, but I know the rest of the UK seems to have been covered in several inches of the cold white stuff.

Anyway the first Truly Scrumptious challenge of the year has been launched today, we're all back after our christmas break and raring to go. It's a fantastic sketch challenge, with the option to use a colour scheme of pink, black and green.

Here's what I did:

I used a fantastic Gorjuss Girl image and coloured with alcohol markers. It's mainly green and pink with just a touch of black and a little touch of doodling. Why not join in our challenge. Just pop along to the Truly Scrumptious blog to see the details, and while you're there take a look at the rest of the design team cards.

Take care.

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T13:03:00.004Z

Happy New Year to all my blogging buddies. Hope you've had a good Christmas, and your 2009 has ended on a good note.

I just thought I'd share a few photos of my beautiful Christmas tree, that was trashed by my naughty kitty cat Coco in less than one week. The tree stands 7 feet tall and Coco's been climbing up and down it. It gradually got worse over the Christmas period, and is now looking completely delapidated. So here's the photo's

See al the gaps where the branches have fallen off...tut...tut...The beads are hanging down, and the Christmas baubels smashed on the floor.
Hope she grows out of it by next Christmas.

'Tis The Season

2009-12-13T22:56:00.005Z

Hi everyone, how's your Christmas preparations going?

I managed to get my tree up at long last, and have been experimenting with my camera, in an effort to get some artistic shots.

Not absolutely sure I've got what I want here, but at least there's room for improvement. I think I've got a little too much glare on the glass in the foreground. But the 'bokeh' effect of the tree in the background is nearly there. I'll keep trying.

~ Edited ~
From the photo above, I've taken part of the bokeh effect on the tree, and made some digital designs in Photoshop
I used several brushes, and effects to create several different designs that I might use for background papers. It's also got me thinking about what else I can do. I'll keep you posted.

Let me know what you think. Do you design digital papers, and how do you do it. I'd be interested to know.

Vintage Christmas

2009-12-12T15:15:00.004Z

Hi everyone.

I hope you're enjoying your weekend so far. I'm absolutely shattered after starting full time work again last week. I'm working at John Lewis in Peterborough, and with all the Christmas shoppers I haven't stopped.

I'm still trying to get on with my Christmas cards, but took a break today to put up my christmas tree, and I must say it looks beautiful. I'm going to take some photos using my Canon DSLR so I can experiment a bit more with the techniques I'm learning.

Anyway back to my card. I don't very often make vintage looking cards, but I'm so inspired by some of our Scandinavian friends I thought I'd give it a go.

I used Close To Cocoa and Bashful Blue ink with the Lovely As A Tree stamp set from Stampin' Up! The base card is Very Vanilla. I also used a corner stamp from Stempleglede which I adore. I've distressed the edges of the card, again something I don't usually do.

The snowflake was made using the Winter Wonderland Cricut cartridge which was kindly lent to me by my lovely friend Louise. I urge you to take a look at her blog, she makes the most amazing creations. Thank you Louise, I'm loving this cartridge, and might buy it myself yet. I added some sparkly glitter to the trees, and pearlised dots to echo the scrolls. Thank you for taking the time to visit, and take care.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 22

2009-12-09T07:00:00.000Z

Hi all

Wednesday's challenge from Truly Scrumptious is here again. Doesn't time fly. This is the last one for this year, but we will be resuming again in the new year.

This week we have a super sketch, and would like to see you use some vellum on your creations.

I've used a super cute Manga Christmas image. Coloured with alcohol markers in christmassy green and red. The cardstock is from Stampin' Up! My vellum element is the snowflakes.

Crafty Calender Winter Sparkle

2009-11-29T14:51:00.001Z

Hi everyone.

I was asked by Georgia to be guest designer in the Crafty Calender Winter Sparkle challenge for December. Of course I was happy to oblige. Here's the card I designed for this challenge.

It's got shimmer and sparkle. The white shimmery patterned paper is from Stampin' Up! and can be coloured any colour you wish by using ink and a brayer. It's fantastic. I just lightly coloured the edges this time with a sponge dauber. The patterned paper is from last years Winter Wonderland collection by Dovecraft.

You can see the shimmer and sparkle dazzling on this photo a little better. I punched out a couple of snowflakes and added a snowflake charm and some knotted tulle from my stash. Hope you like it and thank you for visiting.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 21

2009-11-25T08:00:00.003Z

Hello everyone

It's time for another challenge from our team at Truly Scrumptious .

This week I've designed the sketch for you, and as an added extra I want to see a sparkly flourish on your cards. So get out those diamonds, sequins and glitter or anything else sparkly you have and lets see it. It's perfect to get you in the Christmas party mood.

I've made an easel card. This is my favourite type of card design at the moment. I've use a sugar Nellie image, and coloured her with alcohol markers. The card and paper is from Stampin' Up! as is the scroll stamp and sentiment circle. I've added some gorgeous sparkling crystals for my flourish. The ribbon keeps the card propped up in the correct position and the snowflake charm is from my stash.

There's more gorgeous cards from the rest of the team so why not pop along and take a look. You could win a fantastic prize if you join in.

Thought For The Day

2009-11-14T13:42:00.008Z

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 20

2009-11-11T08:00:00.002Z

Hi crafters

Its time for another Truly Scrumptious challenge. This week we have a sketch by our fabulous Dawn. In addition we want to see texture on your cards.

I created my texture in a number of ways. The most basic technique I used was to tear paper to create a rough edge which showed the white paper core. Another technique used was to scrunch up a strip of paper, unscrunch it, and run the ink pad over it to give definition. Both these techniques require no special equipment. Another technique was to use one of my embossing folders, which created a more uniform texture, which again I inked the edges and sprayed lightly with mica mist.

The stamped Magnolia image was coloured with alcohol markers, and the grosgrain ribbon created yet more texture. The papers are new from Stampin Up. I added a couple of punched snowflakes and some silver studs to finish.

Why not pop along to Truly Scrumptious and find out what the rest of the design team have done, then have a go at the challenge yourself.

Thanks for taking the time to look, I'd love to hear your comments.

Take care, and happy crafting.

This Little Kitty.....

2009-11-10T22:07:00.004Z

Hi all

Remember the nursery rhyme This Little Pig? Well I'm talking kittens now, I have five kittens who are ten weeks old. So here's the story....

THIS LITTLE KITTY HAS A NEW HOME

Lucky little kitty. This one has now gone to it's new owner, who has named her Poppy. She's an adorable tri color fluffy cute little girl, who now has a doting owner. Initial reports are that she seems to be making herself at home already in her new pad. It's always sad when you've seen them being born, and brought them through their first few weeks, only to see them leave your life and move on to new adventures. But alas we cannot keep them and this is the last litter for us now, as the three females we own, have all now been spayed so I'm a little sad.

I'll show you another kitty tomorrow.

God bless you little Poppy, and may you have a long and happy life.

Firework Fiesta 2009

2009-11-01T08:14:00.008Z

Hi everyone.

Well what a brilliant evening I had yesterday. My hubbie and I took our daughter Sophie and her friend Becca to the local Firework Fiesta. It's held every year, with the profits going to local charities. It's an amazing extravaganda, with the local radio station, a funfair, plenty of food stalls, a monstorous bonfire, and of course a spectacular firework display.

This year my main reason for attending was that I wanted to try out my Canon 450 DSLR which I bought in July to take shots of the fireworks, which I haven't done with this camera before. I took my tripod, read up the techniques on the internet, and set my camera settings up before I left home, changed my lens, charged my battery and thought that if I could only get one good shot, it would be worthwhile. I've never managed to get good photo's of fireworks on any of my previous camera's.

Anyway, here are the photos, I haven't changed any of the colours at all, although this is an option I might have a little fun with sometime. I did crop and sharpen them in photoshop though. I'd love to hear what you think.

I'm really pleased with how these turned out. I have learned a few things for next time though. I think I would not use a zoom lens next time, so I can get more background in and possibly more drama against the black night sky.

I did take a couple of hundred photo's all told, but these are by far the best ones, and I can only improve....but sadly I'll have to wait a whole year before the next one, aaahhhh!!!!!

Hope you enjoyed looking, and thanks for visiting.

Hugs Debbie xx

2009-10-30T13:44:00.002Z

Hiya

I've been browsing through old photos today, finding out what's on the umpteen discs I've got, and trying to organise them a little better. So it's inevitable that I would come accross photo's I'd forgotten about, such as the one below......

Perfect for this time of year, this photo was taken of my daughter Sophie, several years ago (pre-DSLR). In this instance I thought the dreaded 'red-eye' could stay. I just love Halloween, but the children have banned me from dressing up and going out with them this year. Instead we are going to a local firework display. I'm taking my new Canon DSLR camera in the hope of trying it out on some firework shots, and as there is a fun fair too, hopefully I'll get loads more I can use for scrapping.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 19

2009-10-28T08:40:00.001Z

Good morning all, and thanks for dropping over today.

Well I have my design team card for Truly Scrumptious today, as we kick off a brand new challenge. It's a sketch challenge, with the additional requirements of three flowers, three brads, three gems or pearls.

I thought I'd make a cute little baby card using this adorable little bunny stamp. The inking is very simple. Stamped using Close To Cocoa from Stampin' Up! I decided to colour only part of the bottle at the top as I wanted the quality of the stamp image to show fully. It's matted and layered on card and paper from Stampin' Up!

The sentiment was computer generated using Photoshop. This is a handy technique well worth kowing and means you can add that personal touch to your creations if required.

So why not hop along to the Truly Scrumptious blog to see what the rest of the design team have made, then have a go at the challenge yourself.

Thanks for visiting.

Miss Anya is Sixteen

2009-10-17T15:50:00.002+01:00

Hi all

I hope you are all well, and busily crafting away. Well today I'm showing you two cards made for my twin niece's who were sixteen just sixteen days after my own daughter Sophie turned sixteen, did you follow that ok?

Well, when I saw them in July, they seemed so grown up, and obviously have an interest in clothes shopping. I knew I had the perfect stamps for their birthday cards....

I used Stampin' Up cardstock in Chocolate Chip, Pixie Pink, Whisper White Basic Black and Lovely Lilac. I coloured with my favourite markers, using die cutters and punches for the shapes.

Ingredients:

Stamps ~ Miss Anya

Cardstock ~ Stampin' Up!

Inks ~ Stampin' Up!

Embelishments ~ From Own Stash

Truly Scrmptious Challenge 18

2009-10-14T08:00:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Wednesday

Well, it's time for another challenge from us at Truly Scrumptious, it sure does come round quick. We have another fabulous sketch for you, from Mina this time, with the additional theme of autumn, perfect for this time of year.

I've chosen a typical autumnal image with traditional autumn colours. Coloured with alcohol markers the image is teamed with cardstock from Stampin' Up! The decorative paper was overstamped with the leaf stamp from the Lovely As A Tree stamp set from Stampin' Up!

The flower was made by my own fair hands, and the buttons, sentiment and punched shapes are all by Stampin' Up! I love the colours of this card, despite it being very different from my usual choice. I'm pleased with the result. Hope you like it too.

Why not pop on over to Truly Scrumptious, and take a look at the rest of the design teams cards, then have a go at the challenge yourself.

Thanks for looking and happy crafting.

Mojo Monday Week 108

2009-10-12T19:25:00.006+01:00

Hi all

After a few weeks of putting most of my energy into my Stampin' Up! business start up, I am now ready to get get back into crafting generally, and join in a few challenges again. As much as I'm enjoying using my Stampin' Up! stash, I am also missing my usual supplies.

So with that in mind I've joined in the Mojo Monday challenge this week. It's a super sketch that I've used to make a Christmas card for my grandson. It's a bit early for me to be thinking about making christmas cards, I usually leave them until the last minute. This year however I'm trying to get a bit more organised, I've even started christmas present buying. Lets hope it continues.

So here's my card then.

Coloured with markers I've used traditional colours for this cute little elf carrying lots of presents. It's bright and cheery, and just the thing for a little boy.

Thanks for dropping by

Supplies:

Cardstock - Stampin' Up!

Stamps - Peachy Keen Snickerdoodle Elf

Brad - Stampin' Up!

Glitter - Stampin' Up!

Cute Kitty

2009-10-07T18:09:00.005+01:00

Hiya

Just thought I'd show this cute piccie of one of the kittens from our cat KitKat. They are six weeks old now and very cute with their blue eyes, it's a shame they won't stay blue.

We just need to home one more little boy (not this one), then they are all spoken for, and poor little KitKat will be taking a trip to the vet's (ouch). Thanks for looking.

Butterfly Bleu

2009-10-07T17:27:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone, hope you're having a great day.

Well I've had a delivery from Stampin'Up! today. Lots of new goodies to play with. So here is my creation using a few of them.

The paper is Bella Bleu, and is a lovely soft blue with vanilla, although I have put it with Whisper White cardstock here for a fresh look. Stamped in Bordering Blue ink, the large butterfly is layered with a vellum layer at the top. A few glittered dots using Fine Cosmo Glitter add to the effect.

If you like the products used here and would like to purchase any of them, then just email me and I will do my best to help. Thank you for looking.

It's My Birthday

2009-10-06T08:32:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone, I hope you are all well.

It's my super duper 49th birthday today. Only one more year to half a century, oh my gosh, and I don't feel a day over 48 hehe....

I'm going to have a lazy day today, truly self indulgent. My hubby is in bed, (he's working nights this week), the kiddy winks are at school, Daisy dog and the cats have had their breakfast and are asleep on the sofa. I'm doing a spot of blogging, then I'm going to get the choccie biscuits out, put on a DVD or two, feet up, and relax. Sounds good to me.

I might get hubby to take a photo of me later for posterity, (not because I like having my piccie taken you understand). I might even get a bit of crafting in later too.

Anyway hope you all have a great day too

Take care.

Truly Scrmptious Challenge 17

2009-09-30T09:26:00.008+01:00

Hi all, and happy Wednesday to you all.

Well they days are getting cooler, the nights are drawing in, and I'm getting ready for winter. Pulling out my warm clothes again (I hate to be cold), putting on the heating at home, and thinking about Christmas preparations. But just before all that I thought one last taste of summer with this image from High Hopes and my design team card for Truly Scrumptious this time.

I do love this image, it reminds me so much of my boys when they were younger, bringing all sorts of things home, and yes, including frogs....

The papers are from Basic Grey, which I love, and I have done a little doodling around the borders to fit in with the challenge this time. The sentiment is from Stampin' Up!

Why not pop over to Truly Scrumptious and take a look at what the rest of the design team have done too. We have a fantastic sketch challenge we'd like you to join in with a chance to win a fabulous prize. So what are you waiting for....

Take care, and thanks for looking.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 16

2009-09-16T08:00:00.002+01:00

Hi all and Happy Wednesday.

Well I've been rather busy just lately with my Stampin' Up venture, so not much time to post. I have, however, been bloghopping to keep up with you all. I may not have left as many comments as usual, but I have been looking. Thanks for keeping me inspired.

Anyway, here is my design team card for the Truly Scrumptious challenge this time.

I used papers downloaded from NitWit collections, which are very soft and girly. I love the circles in this sketch and you can see I'm still stitching. It's the 'in thing' for me just lately, I just love it.
The images are by Whipper Snapper and is so cute. It's actually a combination of four stamps to fit in with this weeks challenge to use at least three stamps. The little girl holding the bunny is one stamp, then we have the bunny sitting on the floor as another. The hearts are another one stamped twice, and the little kitty is the final one I've used from this set.

The image is coloured with Copic's, which I'm constantly adding to my collection. Why not pop accross to Truly Scrumptios and take a look at the rest of the Design Teams work.

Take care, and Happy Crafting.

Friday Sketchers

2009-09-07T08:14:00.008+01:00

Hi everyone and Happy Monday to you all.

Well after not posting for a short while, (I've been busy trying to get my Stampin' Up! demo off to a good start) I finally managed to complete a challenge. Friday Sketchers have a super easy sketch this week, which I managed to complete in record time.

This super cute stamp is by Belles & Whistles, and I love it. I took the colours from my favourite Bo Bunny paper, using my trusted Copic markers. The punched ovals and 'For You' stamp are from Stampin' Up!, and the leaf die is from Sizzix, I inked the edges with a Stampin' Up! pad.

I jazzed up the Prima flower with a coat of Shimmerz Blingz Pixie Dust, which has really made it stand out. I love this effect, it looks better in real life.

Thank you for taking the time to look.

The Sugar Bowl Challenge 18

2009-08-29T16:38:00.008+01:00

Hi all, and happy Saturday.

It's a cold one today, for me anyway, although my hubbie wouldn't agree. If I'm not basking in heat, then I find it cold. I should really be living somewhere warm and sunny, but I don't think there's much chance of that.

Anyway, another challenge. I'm doing well this week, I seem to be getting back into the swing of things again. I'm entering The Sugar Bowl challenge again this week, mainly because I just love the Sugar Nellie stamps. This time I've used one of the Gorjuss Girls (collection three). I've not inked her up until today, and I'm really pleased with the result.

The colours have been kept simple so they don't detract too much from the image. I added a little bit of sparkle to her wings, and the MS punched butterfly. I added the obligatory button, and kept to the sketch as per the challenge. The papers are from My Minds Eye, and Imaginesce. The punched edge was made using the Stampin' Up! Scallop Edge punch, then I chalked the edges to give them a bit more definition.

I bought some new Copic's (fourty to be presise) to add to my ever growing collection. I now have 133 in total, lucky me. I'm loving this colour combination, and will probably use it again, it's a very girly, sugary combo, just me.

Anyway thanks for looking. Bye for now.

Little Princess

2009-08-28T23:36:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Friday.

I've bought the school uniforms today. There's only one supplier in Peterborough because they have to have the school logo on. So no getting them cheap from Tesco for me, boo hoo. But at least I have what they needed now. Thankfully I still have some bits from last year that fit them, and are not worn out yet. Just have to get Jordan a school bag now, then they're all set. They don't go back until September 8th though. Sophie is most disgusted as that's the day of her 16th birthday.

Anyway, as I've been doing quite a few secret projects just lately, to do with my first Stampin' Up! workshop, which I can't show you yet. I don't want to spoil it for those attending. I thought I'd show you a digital layout I have completed with my baby granddaughter Nicole as the subject. I've got tons of photo's, and want to make a book of her first year. So this page will go into it once I assemble it.

Of course it has to be pink and girly. The collection was downloaded from Nitwit Collections and is called Affection. The whole collection cost only $14.76 and thats including the add ons, which I purchased too. Digital paper collections are such good value, as you can print them out and use them in conventional card making and scraapbooking too. Just remember to back up your files, as you don't want to lose the collection you have purchased, or your digital creation when you've spent time on it.

These layouts look fab printed out, and are so much more interesting than plain old photos. I love designing them when I don't want the mess of conventional papercraft cluttering up my workspace, aka dining room table.....

Anway Nicole is almost five months old and I know I'm biased, but she's adorable. Hope you like my layout. I'd be happy to receive any comments if you care to leave any.

Sugar Bowl Challenge 17

2009-08-23T22:03:00.002+01:00

Hi again everyone,

Now I have a card today that IS in time for the challenge. It's over at The Sugar Bowl, and is a sketch, with the added challenge of making your own flowers. There is a fab prize on offer for two lucky people, a full set of the brand new Sugar Nellie Autumn Stamps, WOW, a full set. it's gotta be worth a go don't you think?

So for my card I've used one of the Manga Kids. I adore these, and have the first full set, but this is the first time I've used any of them. I love 'em, and they're a dream to colour. Take a look.

The colour scheme of pink and green is one of my favourites, although these ones are much more sultry shades from Bo Bunny, and I love 'em. The sentiment stamp is from Stampin' Up! I love the handwritten look of these stamps.

My flower is truly hand made. First I crocheted a flower using cotton thread. The pink and black flower I made using Fimo modelling clay. Something I'm experimenting with just lately. I combined them and Voila, a handmade flower to order. I've made quite a few from Fimo, and am going to try different colour combinations, so watch this space for something a bit different.

Take care, and happy crafting.

Better Late Than Never

2009-08-23T06:21:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone and happy Sunday

I think this card was for another challenge that I was late with, but lord knows which one.

Anyway I used a Sugar Nellie image, which I love. Coloured with Copic's again, and this time combined with two stamps from Stampin' Up! They are both from the Fresh Cuts stamp set in the mini catalogue. If you want to take a look at what else is in the set, then click on the link over on the side bar. I love the little leaf stamp, it's so pretty.

This is my sort of card, very girly and feminine, and I do love it, even if I say so myself.

Late Once More

2009-08-22T23:06:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Saturday

Well I'm pleased to say that my son's operation was successful, and he is now home again. He'll have his stitches out on 1st October, and hopefully start physiotherapy soon afterwards. But he's on the mend at least.

Now I've been a bit lax lately about posting. The reason is partly because I'm trying to get organised with my Stampin' Up! demonstratorship, if that's the right word. But today I'm posting a card from a challenge about three weeks ago. Friday sketchers posted a sketch on August 7th, and believe it or not, I did finish the challenge on time. I did not post it though, so I'm letting you all see it now instead.

There's quite a bit of stitching on this card, I really love that look at the moment. The papers are by My Minds Eye. I coloured the image with Copic markers, and the vine leaves were painted inside the card with H2o's so they shimmer, although you can't see it on the photo.

The white stitching is actually faux stitching made with a white gel pen, but the green stitching has been done with embroidery silk. In both cases you will need to prick the paper first.

The Prima flowers were distressed using chalk, and Distress Stickles, with buttons added to the centres. This card was made for display at Sir Stampalot where I am a member of their design team.

Hope you like it even though it's too late for the challenge.

Stampin' Up! Workshop

2009-08-21T10:21:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Friday.

Phew the end of the week. My son has gone into hospital today for surgery on his broken arm, and a bone graft. He is really worried about it, but I know they'll look after him. Hopefully he should be back home tomorrow.

Anyway, I'm just letting you all know that I will be holding a Stampin' Up! workshop, my first, at my home on September 14th at 7.30pm. If you live in the Peterborough area of Cambridgeshire, and wish to come along and see what Stampin' Up! is all about, then just drop me an email. Don't be shy, just go for it and I can guarantee you'll have a great evening.

Take care

Truly Scrumptious

2009-08-19T08:00:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Wednesday to you.

At last I have made something. The past couple of weeks I've been busy preparing an inspiration board for my demos of Stampin' Up! products. I need a few more people to invite though, so if you live in the Peterborough area of Cambridgeshire, UK and fancy coming along, then just drop me a line, or leave a comment on this post and I'll give you the details. If you would like any other details about Stampin' Up! then let me know.

Now here's a little gift box for you. It's my contribution to the Truly Scrumptious design team for this weeks challenge. The challenge is....to make something other than a card. Why not take a look at what you could win if you join in.

I have used Stampin' Up! products (apart from the brad). The colours are Chocolate Chip, Close To Cocoa, and Bashful Blue...a yummy combination. The stamp set is Pocket Silhouettes. It's so easy to make, and good for beginners who want something that look impressive, and they can adapt for any occasion.

Hope you like it, and thank you for looking.

Reach For The Moon

2009-08-16T18:55:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone and happy Sunday.

No cards to show you again, just another photo. I'm still playiing with my new camera, lenses and Photoshop.

I thought I'd have a go at shooting the moon...this is about as good as I've got up to now.

On the far right you can see some texture, craters probably. The texture has not been touched up, the only editing I've done was to crop the photo, sharpen it up a little using the unsharp mask, and alter the colour hue. Not bad I think. I just wish I could get in closer...need a bigger lens I suppose. anyone got any tips...

Stampin' Up!

2009-08-11T09:55:00.008+01:00

Hi there and a Happy Tuesday to you all.

I just wanted to let you all know that I have now joined Stampin' Up! as a demonstrator. There are a couple of links on my side bar to the current catalogues. Why not take a look and see what Stampin' Up! is all about.

If you are interested in ordering or hosting a workshop, or if you have any questions about Stampin' Up! then I would be more than happy to assist. My contact details are on my side bar.

Happy Crafting

Hugs Debbie xx

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 13

2009-08-05T07:00:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone, and Happy Wednesday.

I'm finally getting back into crafting, after the rather unsettling time I've had lately. I'm off to Capture The Magic too today, so I'm sure to have a great time.

The challenge from Truly Scrumptious this time, is to use this sketch by our very own talented Mina and combine it with 'A bit Of Bling'

I used this Magnolia image from the Butterfly Collection. It's quite appropriate for us here in the UK at the moment, as we're having quite a bit of rain. Typical British 'summer' weather. Still it's what makes out 'green and pleasant land' so special so I don't mind too much.

I used a combination of peach and turquoise tones, with papers from My Minds Eye. This paper is infused with glitter, so is quite 'blingy' itself.

However I also added glitter on the raindrops and on the frill of the umbrella, and for added bling, some gemstones on the Prima blossom which I sprayed with Glimmer Mists beforehand.

Why not pop along to see what the rest of the design team have done, and play along for your chance to win a fabulous prize.

Take care, and happy crafting.

Retail Therapy Worked

2009-07-31T22:20:00.006+01:00

Hi again.

Just to let you all know I had a fun time on my shopping trip, even though it was only in my home town, I still found plenty to buy. I bought two new lenses for my Canon camera, a macro lens so I can take fantastically close shots, and a zoom lens to get shots that are further away. These came in at the princely sum of just over £700, so I'd better look after them. Anyway I'm hoping these additions will give me more scope.

I bought some magazines to help me a bit more with Photoshop. although I can do simple things and create digital scrapbooking layouts too, I don't use it to it's full potential. So with the money spent on my new camera and accessories, I thought it was time to learn a bit more. I want to be more artistic and contemporary with my photography, so lets hope it works.

I also bought a silver bracelet, and a couple of beads, as above. I have heard them called Mango Beads, not sure if this is correct, but I love the idea of having something different. I'm going to add to them as and when I see something I like. I fancy making it all green and pink, with silver, so I guess I'll be looking for something pink now. You could have ton of beads, and make your bracelet up to match your outfit differently every day.

I saw a lovely lime green handbag, I'm really into that colour at the moment, I didn't buy it, but wish I had now. Might have to go back to get it though.

Incidently the photo of the beads was taken with my new macro lens. I think it works perfectly.

Take care, and happy crafting.

Stamp Something Challenge

2009-07-31T08:55:00.008+01:00

Hi all and happy Friday.

Well it's now a week since I was made redundant, and I'm feeling a little better now. That's because of the therapy I've been receiving....Retail Therapy!! and let me tell you, it's just what I needed. I've treated Sophie & Jordan, and bought a 'few' crafty bits for me. I'm off to town today to buy a new lens for my camera, and maybe a few more treats for myself. I have to be mindful though, I know this money won't last forever, AND I need to get a new job too. But for now I'm happy.

Now then, I made a card for the Stamp Something challenge, but misunderstood and got the wrong date. The bugs, butterflies and winged somethings was from last week..sigh...I really should pay more attention.

That said, I have decided to show my card anyway, since I have not posted any cards for over a week now. So here goes:

The papers are by My Minds Eye and fitted in with the jungle theme. The image is from Magnolia and coloured with Copic Markers. (By the way I've bought some new colours, so you'll be seeing them soon). I stitched around the image. I like this look at the moment, it just adds another dimension. I put a piece of acetate through an embossing folder, and rubbed black Stazon over the relief to highlight it, and stuck it behind the matted image. I added a squiggly line with a marker, around the circle too.

I added Glossy Accents to the rear lights of the vehicle, and cut out the windows, placing more acetate behind them to look like glass. You can't actually see it on this photo, but believe me it's there. The image was matted using silicone to give depth as you can tell by the shadow in the windows.

I chopped up the Magnolia Palm Tree to use the leaves on the ground rather like ferns, to give a bit of jungle undergrowth, and made some tiny flowers using shrink plastic, (a technique I borrowed from Louise, thanks sweetie) and I do love them. The bees were from another Magnolia stamp, but I cut them from Tilda's hand, coloured them using copics. I glittered the wings, then stamped again onto Fantasy film with Stazon, and cut the wings out only. It was a bit fiddly, I attached them with silicone to give that sheer irridescent look as though they're flying. Quite cute I thought.

So there you have it. Oh and the sentiment was computer generated. Hope you like it. I'm off to town now, more therapy....See ya later.

Take care.

Special Gift

2009-07-25T14:38:00.007+01:00

I'm back again to tell you that one of my members of staff (Thank you Maxine) bought me a stunning orchid as a leaving present. It is beautiful, I love plants and anything to do with gardening, I was training to be a garden designer at one time, but that kind of fell by the wayside. However, with my new found love of photography, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to have a little play.

I've read lots about photography techniques since I've had my camera, and one little tip is when photographing flowers, put a piece of coloured card behind the flower so the background is uncluttered and the flower stands out more.

What a top tip, I think it works beautifully. I have edited the photo in Photoshop to get it just how I want it, and I'm really pleased with the outcome.

Now as I am going to re-decorate my lounge and dining room, I thought I would use blue Bazzill for the background, to tone in with the blue and cream colour scheme I'm using, so I can use the photo as part of the decoration. I'm thinking of making it into a large canvas to hang on the wall. What do you think? Maybe I've got a new career in the making here!!!

Truly Scrumptious

2009-07-25T14:20:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone

Hope you're all ok. I've been a little neglectful with my blog this week. I think it may have something to do with being made redundant yesterday, I've had no enthusiasm to craft or blog. I'm unsure what the future will hold...I'd love to get in to crafting more, but don't know if the opportunity will present itself. I'm still thinking which way to go. In any case I'm having the school holidays off to do things with the children, (whether they like it or not), then I'll re-evaluate. I'm hoping that when my redundancy payout comes in a bit of retail therapy will cheer me up, and get me moving again.

Now on to my card for Truly Scrumptious. Although I posted it in time for the challenge on Wednesday, it seemed to disappear, as it did on the Truly Scrumptious blog too. Naughty Mr Blogger was playing up. }}: (

It's now back where it should be on the Truly Scrumptious blog, and here on my blog again.

The theme for this time is to use beads, so I have a charm, and beads hanging from the flower. this is quite a fun card with bold colours. Hope you like it.

Why not pop along to Truly Scrumptious and take a look at the rest of the Design Teams cards, and maybe join in the challenge too.

Take care and happy crafting.

Photo's

2009-07-21T17:35:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Tuesday

Well the weather seems to have turned horrid, here on the eastern side of the UK. It's been raining, and it's much, much cooler than it has been over the past couple of weeks. I'm so glad we managed to have beautiful weather for the wedding just over a week ago.

Anyway, whilst the weather was nice I was experimenting with my new camera. I sill want to go on a course to be able to get the best from it, and learn to use it to it's full capacity, but I have taken a few shots that I'm quite proud of. So here they are:

Now the professionals amongst you will probably have a thing of two to say about these, but I myself are really quite proud of them. I am now interested in buying a macro lens (for detailed close-ups) and a zoom lens so I can take things a bit further. Whilst I don't intend to turn this in to a photography blog, I may grace you with a few shots from time to time, to let you see how I'm progressing.

The other thing is, that as I own the copyright to these photo's I'm thinking of ways I can develop them to fit in with the craft market. Maybe as backgrounds, toppers or fabrics...or maybe as canvases for home decor, who knows. If you have any ideas I would be interested to hear them.

Thanks for looking and happy crafting

Sketch Saturday #60

2009-07-19T16:49:00.013+01:00

Hi everyone and Happy Sunday

I've been relaxing this week, not done too much crafting, but I'm going to get back into it now. One more week at work to go then redundancy. We all went out for a meal yesterday evening at a local restuarant, and it was very nice too.

My card today is for the Sketch Saturday challenge. I just love sketch challenges, and with this one I used my brand new stamp.

You may have noticed that I have been searching for a Sarah Kay stamp (shown right) for quite some time, months in fact. It's been posted on my side bar for ages and I've pleaded for your help in finding it. Well I can reveal that several people have contacted me in the last wee telling me of various retailers taking stock. I am pleased to say that I am now the proud owner of this stamp, and would like to say a huge THANK YOU to all those people that took the time to contact me. I am extremely grateful to you all. I can now show you what I've done with it.

The image is coloured with copic markers as usual. I went with a sunny yellow colour scheme. The papers are a download from Kay Miller Designs.

The inside is decorated with more of the papers and the same image.

Thanks for looking and happy crafting.

The Next Level

2009-07-13T08:00:00.006+01:00

Hi all and Happy Monday.

This weeks challenge involves a super sketch, coupled with using decoupage. Now you can make this yourself, of choose any one of the ready printed decoupage images that are readily available. the choice is yours. I used a fab Morehead image. I love these images. They are great for something a little different. I used mine with Basic Grey Archaic 6x6 papers. Perfect for this theme. I cut my circles using nesties, embossing the brown ove with my cuttlebug embossing folder. I used real twigs from the carden to make a sort os pathway for my image to 'run' along, and poached some clack grass from one of my silk flower arrangements...shhhh...they'll never notice. Just goes to show the lengths I go to sometimes in persuit of my 'hobby'.

You can see the twigs, and decoupage a little better in this photo.

Fantastic Day

2009-07-12T19:40:00.016+01:00

Hi all and Happy Sunday.

I had a fantastic day yesterday at my son's wedding yesterday, although the final preparations were hectic.

Paul and Jess looked stunning, and I wish them many congratulations. I am so proud of them, and the rest of my children. Here's a few photo's of the day.

Confetti time.

Don't they all look gorgeous.

Jess with our youngest daughter Sophie, who was chief bridesmaid.

Dear Husband and I - Proud Mum and Dad (I loved the outfit, and adore the hat)

Younger son Adam and girlfriend Zoe all dressed up.

Proud dad with youngest son Jordan (typical boy)

Eldest daughter Jo, with husband Stewart grandchildren, & bridesmaid Ellie (Jess' daughter)

Me with my lovely little sister

These are not the official photos, just a few of the photo's we took. Hope you like them and get a sense of what the day was like for us.

Thanks for taking the time to look.

Truly Scrumptious

2009-07-08T20:30:00.006+01:00

Hi There, and happy Wednesday.

Let's see now, it's only three more sleeps until my son's big wedding day on Saturday. I'm still doing wedding favours, and had to do a quick dash into town today to buy more ribbon...I'd run out and was at panic stations...but I managed to get what I needed, so crisis over.

Just a quick post, albeit a late one to show you my creation for this weeks challenge at Truly Scrumptious. We have another sketch, with the added challenge of using only black, white, and one other colour (excluding flesh and hair tones).

So as I like pink, I thought I would stick to that, and did several shades. I love how it turned out. I used papers from Doodlebug. The pink metallic word paper is a Disney one, but can't think who makes it...

I used my nesties to cut the mats, and the Adorable word was cut out from one of the Cuttlebug Embossing folders...Great if you're in a hurry and haven't got the time to look for a sentiment, as is the case with me at the moment.

I later replaced the 'adorable' word with circle containing '18' after Sophie came home yesterday and said she needed a card for Vanessa, the girl she's been working with this week, (she's on work experience at our local childrens nursery). So I did a quick alteration this morning to accomodate. Vanessa loved it by all accounts, and Sophie has spent the day eating birthday cake..lucky her.

Why not pop along and see what the rest of the design team have done, and be in with the chance to win yourself a prize.

I should have a bit more time once the wedding is over, so might be able to enjoy a few more challenges as well as my DT work again. Oh and I don't know if I've already mentioned this, my redundancy is happening on July 24th. It's so close now, don't know whether to be happy or sad after 21 years working for the same place. I know one thing though...life goes on, and I'll survive....just have to figure out how...lol

The Next Level

2009-07-06T17:54:00.006+01:00

Hi all, and Happy Monday.

I'm a tad late posting for the challenge today, up to my neck in wedding favours & place names. Not long now....only FIVE more sleeps. Oh My Gosh.... We've had thunderstorms today, so I hope they pass by the weekend, and it turns sunny, and dry again for Saturday.

Here is my card for this weeks challenge over at The Next Level. It's all about buttons and bows this week. No sketch this time, so lets see what you come up with.

I used one of the new images from Whiff Of Joy... These are so delightful, I adore them. I made a card for a baby boy as you can see, but I didn't want to overpower it with embelishments. I wanted it to remain soft and babylike. I decided to use a sheer ribbon for the bow, then I could make a large bow, but it wouldn't look too heavy...aha method in my madness...On the other end of the scale, I used teeny tiny buttons for the flower centres which kept things delicately balanced. The background was kept simple with some shadow stamping, and a touch of blue paper from HOTP. The sentiment was computer generated.

Hope you like it, and while you're at it why not pop along and see what new look The Next Level is all about.

Happy crafting.

Birth Announcements

2009-07-02T14:45:00.009+01:00

Hi everyone, and a happy HOT Thursday to you all.

I've been having a play with Photoshop, and making my own embellishments over the last couple of days. I'm trying a few money making ideas out in readiness for when I enter my jobless phase after redundancy later on this month. I'm thinking if I can attend a few local fayres this summer, or maybe start up some craft classes, I can make my own money. I don't think it will be much, but might as well use my talents if I can, eh??

Anyway I made the sentiments in Photoshop, and layered them on to card, added a punched out flower and some pearly doodles and one thing led to another I thought I would use some of the toppers on sample birth announcement cards.

I have only used Bazzill and a few scraps of patterned paper. These cards are really tiny, e.g. 3" x 3" for the square ones, and 4" by 2.5" for the tall one. I've made some baby boy ones too, so maybe I'll do a few samples with them too. I actually love them, there would be room to add a small photo inside, and baby's weight etc.

Because of the small size, I thought you could use them for scrapbooking, gift tags, on gift boxes, and many other things too. I'm thinking of doing a kind of pick & mix thing. Mainly because I've bought things before, for one item, and never used the rest of the pack. I thought as people are on a tight budget these days, this idea might appeal...you only pay for what you want. What do you think of the idea???

I'm thinking of Save The Date cards too. I'd love to hear what you think.

Just thought I'd share a photo with you before I go....

Daisy (our Shih Tzu) and Cleo (our cat) having a snooze on the sofa in the cool. Bless....

Take care

Hugs Debbie xx

Bloomin' Computers

2009-06-30T12:02:00.002+01:00

Hi all, and happy Tuesday.

I seem to be having a few problems with my computer today, blooming thing. Can't seem to run photoshop properly, it keeps freezing on me, don't know why. Don't know if it's too tired with this hot weather we're having, and can't be bothered just like me. But whatever it is, I just wish it would quit playing up, I need to work!!!!

I'm gonna have one more go, and if it doesn't work, I'm going back to the ironing, pooh...

The Next Level

2009-06-29T15:03:00.008+01:00

Hi everyone and happy Monday.

It's gorgeously sunny here in Cambridgeshire today, but I can't enjoy it too much I have lots of housework to catch up on (YUK), but somebody has to do it.

I attended my long service award at Freemans on Friday, presentation and buffet which was absoloutely lovely. I would like to say thanks to my manager Lynne and senior manager Chris for all their help and support over the last few years, and a special thanks to Chris for arranging the presentation. As you know I've already spent my vouchers on my camera which I am very pleased with. It's a shame I'll be made redundant on 24th July, I've enjoyed working there for the past 21 years, and am sad to see it go. Freemans catalogue will still be running, but we will no longer do any work in Peterborough, it'll all be done in Bradford.

Anyway on to the challenge from The Next Level this week. As you have told us you love sketches there's a fabulous one to follow as shown on the left. There's an added theme of stitching if you're feeling creative.

I've used an image from Pink Gem. This is one of my very favourite images, excellent for all those little girls. It's quite a sizeable image too. I've coloured with Copic's and used Basic Grey Porcelain papers. I blanket stitched around the circle, and also did a few straight stitches in the middle of some of the toadstool spots.

As an added bonus, (and I should get a gold star), I've added more stitches in the form of a crochet circle, using a brad for the centre.

I decorated the inside using another image and offcuts of paper.

Why no pop on over to The Next Level and have a go yourself. And while you're there read all the latest hints and tips and grab yourself some freebies, and take a look at what the rest of the design team have done. I can promise you won't be disappointed it's well worth a visit.

Take care

Stamp With Stampavie

2009-06-25T01:56:00.000+01:00

Hi everyone

As I made a card for my new teenager Jordan with his age on, I decided to enter it for the Stampavie and More challenge this week. it's all about numbers, so this card seemed quite fitting. Unfortunately I forgot to add the photo, (as you will have noticed if you tuned in earlier) and the moment has now passed, and they're on to a new challenge. My DH is on nights this week, so the only chance I have to get on the PC (which is in our bedroom) is when I come home from work at 10:30pm. It's now 1:53am he's at work, and I should be in bed, but instead I'm posting so you can all see what I did, and I must be mad....

The image is from a stamp by Whipper Snapper, which I purchased from my local Sir Stampalot. I thought Jordan would appreciate the yummyness of this card. I also wanted to get away from the traditional boy colours of blue/green/brown etc. and do something a little more fun and funky. So I chose this 'sweet' image and coloured it in with briight colour Copic markers. I added some glitter to the ice-cream and glossy accents to the lollies. I also edged the number circle with glitter. I didn't think it was too girly with all those colours, and Jordan loved it anyway so success all round.

Truly Scrumptious Challenge 10

2009-06-24T08:00:00.009+01:00

Hi everyone, and happy Wednesday.

We have another sketch for you today over at Truly Scrumptious.
In addition we want you to look out your neglected stash and incorporate some of it in your design. Now I had a rummage through mine, and although I used new my new stamp, the papers are really old, and I've used those 'dreaded peel off's' that I bought when I first started card making and didn't know any better.

This week I've made a card that fits inside a little gift box. I'm going to give it to my friend. I'm going to put some handmade wine charms inside too, and give her a bottle of wine along with it. I've followed the sketch on both the box and the card. The papers are by Junkitz. The peel off's were used for 'photo corners' and have been changed from gold to bronze with a brown Copic marker with the hope of bringing it more up to date.

The flowers are all made by me using the EK Success Retro Flower punches small and medium. I used a ball tool and soft mat to shape the petals after colouring plain white paper with Tattered Angels Glimmer Mist - Patina. Some of the flowers have been stamped on before shaping. I had great fun doing this, and want more Glimmer Mist colours now, they're so magical and pretty.

I decorated the inside with the same image and papers. This card is very girly and reminds me of neopolitan ice-cream with the colours. You can also see I used my Martha Stewart Doily Edge punch too.

Why not pop along and see what the rest of the design team have done.