Jus cos cards

Finally some crafting

2008-08-18T09:39:00.004+01:00

I've finally done a little crafting, but it was a case of having to get cards done lol. It's my brothers anniversary and my great niece's birthday. So I did the 2 cards above. The anniversary was just a plain one, because my brother doesn't do fuss. Then I used the Saturday Sketches challenge for last week for the birthday card. I used paper from a download for both cards and added ribbons from Lakeland. I added glitter to Tilda's wings and the wording is from QVC kit.

So the summer holidays are nearly over. And I've done none of the crafting I promise myself. But I have done Mum things and chill things and caught up with friends time. Which has been great.

Went to see Vanessa (nessy notes) yesterday and had a great day. And I came back with loads and loads of stamped images. So I must get on with some cards no excuses lol. I don't know what I'd do without Vanessa. A big thank you to Vanessa and her lovely boys, (including Paul) who gave us all, (me, my Steve and Mandy) a wonderful day. Hope it's not too long before we see each other again. big hugs to all Vicki oxo's

She's in

2008-08-14T11:34:00.002+01:00

Well I'm well a chuffed Mum, Nicki's in Uni. Results were ok, 2D's in Drama and English, and a B in Dance. So we were unsure, but then a letter arrived from Uni, saying your in. I scream and cried. Nicki's crying and on cloud 109 lol. hugs for everyone Vicki oxo's

Mini Album (first double page)

2008-08-14T07:35:00.005+01:00

Well I've finally done some crafting this summer holidays. I'm planning on doing a 12 x 12 scrapbook for my best friends 40th birthday. But because I've had to ask for loads of photos she knows what's coming. So as a surprise I'm going to add to the present by adding 3 mini albums which will be just on each of her 3 children. Although Emma is the youngest I've started on her album first. It doesn't look as if I've added much details to the pages, but where they are small anything else I added made it too much. Both these photo were taken the day she was born, so I added all the details. Then added the Sunday's child bit, then die cut flower to tie the pages together. On page 2 was a lot of info so just added small teddy and princess crown. As Emma is a real princess. On a roll now and hoping to do another couple of pages by the end of the week.
Well today is a funny old day, I'm feeling terrible, it's results day for A-levels. My Nicki is getting ready for collage as I type. I really don't mind if she doesn't pass. But Nicki is hoping to go to Uni. She's had the interviews and done the audition etc etc, and has been accepted on that, but of course will need the point to get in. So it's fingers crossed and keep your mouth shut Mum. I made the mistake of saying it didn't matter if she didn't get what she wanted she could resit and apply next year. OOOOO I thought or was trying to say I was proud without the results. She's worked hard and that's all I've ever asked. And seeing that neither me or her Dad did A-levels we're chuffed already. But it means the world to her, so I have the biggest worry belly on. I'll hopefully put another post on later saying what's happened. We might have to wait a few days to hear from her Uni, if it's down to a few little points.

Hope you all have good days and that it doesn't rain too much. Hugs for now oxo's Vicki

oooo put pages in wrong way sorry!

Busy being Mum

2008-08-12T08:56:00.004+01:00

Well all my plans in the summer holiday for crafting everyday! What happened? Well it's the girls, yes they sleep till late, but while they sleep I'm tidying and sorting out tea, washing etc etc. Then it's Mandy can you play games with me. So of course I'm playing all sorts, we've even been out and brought battleships and downfall to play. I'm loving spending time with my girls and all the other kids that end up at my place. But one of them seems to have put my crafting head somewhere. Cos I really can't get into crafting at all. The only thing I've been doing is these invites for my best mates birthday in November. And if I'm honest I wasn't really into them. I think that's because I printed off 100 wordings and cut to size then penciled line in both corners for the ribbon. Then put on double sided tape on about 97 before I noticed I'd not changed the phone number on the printing, that Kim had told me I'd done wrong!!!!!!!! lol. I can laugh now, but can you image lol. These invites were just want Kim wanted, I'd wanted to do something more, but she just wanted simple. So it's printed wording from the computer, with added old photo of Kim. Then added the purple ribbon, then the silver ribbon on top. Then stuck onto silver mirror card, and finally adding Quickutz 4 0's. So 100 altogether and I must admit they did look ok. For the tables on the night of the party I'm going to do cards the same with loads of old photo's of Kim. And Kim's making the cake with old photo's too.

Well I hope some of you are crafting away the summer holidays. I'm sorry if I haven't been online and blogging, but I bet you all understand. So happy holidays and may the sun shine at least some of the week please lol. big hugs to all Vicki oxo's

Nicki and Natalie

2008-08-04T07:03:00.002+01:00

Well I can't believe it's been nearly a week since my last posting. I've done no crafting. I seem to have lost that head at the moment. And I have so many things I want to do. But I've been busy with Nicki coming home and seeing to Mandy with things to do while on holiday. Plus spending time with 2 of Steve's sisters. Ali is over from Oz to make things nice and spend some time with Cindy before she start cancer treatment. Ali goes home Wednesday and treatment starts the 14th. She's had 2 op some it's the radio and chemo to do now. Today we're all off for our last girly day so no crafting today. I hope you're all busy with your crafting and no-one else has lost there heads lol. I'll try and do a quick hop about now, sorry if I miss you out big hugs and I'm leaving you with a holiday picture of Nicki and Nat. My Nicki's the one with short hair and grey and purple dress. Best friends these 2 are, didn't even have one cross word in 2 weeks, which is a good. Think Nicki was saving everything for Mandy once she settled back in at home lol. big hugs everyone oxo's Vicki

The Jars I made for teachers

2008-07-29T12:29:00.006+01:00

Happy Tuesday everyone, oooo wasn't the rain heavy, but ooo so needed. Jazz (our new kitten) was totally confused and was not impressed. I'm feeling a little sore today. I took Mandy for a walk along the shore line. We had a lovely little picnic and watched the mullet swimming in the shallow waters. But silly me I forgot to put cream on myself so now sunburnt shoulders.

Well I've finally got round to putting the photo's of the jars I made for the teachers on the computer. These were given to 11 teachers as leaving presents. Each one was different and they can eat the sweets then use jars for pens etc. As you can see I used all sorts to decorate them, including gems, ribbons, quickutz etc. They were fun to make and the teachers loved them.

Enjoy the cooler weather and please remember to put on that cream.

Cup cake challenge 26

2008-07-28T11:53:00.003+01:00

Good afternoon everyone, thanks for popping by on the beautiful warm sunny day. Doesn't it make you feel good when the sun is shinning and you have no work. We've finally come to the end of are manic time. End of July always madness here, what with school things going on. Then the 2 girls and the birthdays and of course our Anniversary. So now I'm hoping to settle down and do crafting everyday. My plan is to get ahead with all my birthday cards. Was thinking I'll work on the next months cards. With school this will be handy as will cover the holidays without rushing. So that the plan. Also in the school holidays I plan to make my best friend a scrapbook for her 4oth birthday present, so anyone with some helpful sites I welcome any help. Vanessa has already given some address so thanks Vanessa.

These 2 cards for the Cup cake challenge 26 http://www.tayloredexpressions.blogspot.com/ A great sketch and I enjoyed doing 2 different cards with it. Both cards have used papers from my stash, which I'm trying to make smaller lol (so many papers I have) For the Christmas card I've used Edwin with his sack painted with watercolours. Added Quickutz phases and then added 3 gems. For the birthday card I've used this cute dog image that Linda gave me, then added 3 buttons with ribbons and finally adding Best Birthday Wishes.

Beautiful cards from friends

2008-07-27T11:16:00.012+01:00

The card my Mandy made for our Anniversary

Mandy's card from Vanessa

Mandy's card from Linda

Our anniversary card from Vanessa

Our anniversary card from Linda

Nicki's card from Linda, it doesn't show up very well as it's done with silver and black and pink ribbons

Outside of Nicki's 18th birthday card from Vanessa

Inside of the card Vanessa made for Nicki's 18th Well it's been a hectic few days and I'm only just catching my breath. I've had no time to craft or get on the computer. But a lot of fun has been had and loads of lovely food consumed! Really must start that diet tomorrow lol. If any of you haven't seen Mama Mia I say GO it's a brill film with laughter from the whole cinema. Julie Walters and crew are sooooo funny. Well worth a watch and one I'll be getting when it comes out on DVD.

So today's posting is to show you the beautiful cards that myself, Nicki and Mandy got from very crafting friends. The one at the top is one my Mandy made for Steve and I which I think shows she's catching up with me fast infact I think she's there. The cards are made by my bestest crafting friend Vanessa http://www.nessysnotes.blogspot.com/ and Linda http://linda-wright.blogspot.com/ as you can see they both do the most amazing cards.

I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather. I know that Mandy is she off with her Dad blackberry picking so I can make a crumble for pudding, hence the diet starts tomorrow lol. big hugs to you all vicki oxo's

Happy Anniversary my Steve

2008-07-24T10:12:00.004+01:00

Well it's been a long and busy week and now for the fun part. I've finished work for the summer holidays and today's my Anniversary, plus my Nicki's home later today. Then tomorrow my Mandy is going to be 11. So I'm doing a quick posting while my Steve has taken Mandy for a bit of fresh air, nothing to do with going to pick up my flowers lol.

This is the quick card I did for Steve. I'm afraid I was so busy trying to make sure all the kids at school had birthday cards for the holidays I left Steve's to the last minute. I did a double fronted card. For this I used paper from a QVC kit and added Tilda tree which I painted with watercolours, then added our initials (bless lol) I added chocolates and saying, cos Steve knows how much I love chocolate lol. Then on other edge I added Tilda with basket of hearts and Anniversary note. Inside I put this poem that I found

Our anniversary makes me love you more than ever

You're such a wonderful husband and not a day goes by when I don't think of what it means to be sharing life with you

I wish I had the words to tell you how thankful I am for your love and tenderness

All I can do is keep loving you with all my heart the way I do every single day.

Soft I know, but after 22 years I think he deserves lovely words. So that's me for today. I'm off to enjoy family time and then once Steve is back to work Monday the real crafting begins hooray. Enjoy this beautiful sunshine big hugs Vicki oxo's

???? Challenge

2008-07-21T07:22:00.003+01:00

Well I've done this card from a challenge, but I can't find out which blog it was from. It was from a sketch that I did the challenge from, but oooo I've looked this morning and I can't find out where it's from. So if anyone knows can you let me know lol. Sorry this was another CRAFT moment for me. (Can't Remember A Flipping Thing).

I did this for a friend of Mandy's. I used paper from a kit from QVC, then added Tilda painted with watercolours. Then added ribbon and stamped my friend on. Finally adding gem and buttons.

Well it's going to be a hectic but fun week. I have finally finished all the jars for the teachers at school. And Mandy will be giving them out today. I've got 3 cards to get done for children at school who's birthdays are in the holidays. ooo and I must do an anniversary card for my husband. But it's only 2 days for Mandy at school. 3 for me. Then on Thursday it's my Anniversary and my Nicki is coming home. God I've missed her so much, and it doesn't help when she texts and says she having a great time, but she misses home so much. So I'm looking forward to getting her home, but not the washing I know she'll bring back. Then on Friday it's our Mandy's birthday. 11 where do the years go? And on Friday we're off as a family to watch Mama Mia and then lunch out. 2 of Steve's sisters are coming too. Cindy who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer and Ali who's come over from Oz to help her sister for a few weeks. She arrived Thursday and we've been having so much fun. Amazing how much you can laugh about wigs and the downfalls of treatment. But it's just what Cindy needed and we having a blast. Times like this when you really know what family means. So that's part of my busy week, and I hope I'll get round to visiting some of you too. Have a good week and enjoy the sun, it looks like it's here for a while (I hope) hugs for now oxo's Vicki

ABC challenge 3

2008-07-17T13:56:00.002+01:00

Well a great challenge for the ABC challengehttp://abc-challenge.blogspot.com/ this week. It's C for charms this week so for this card I added 2 charms. This card is for my Mandy's birthday next week. I've used paper from a kit I got from QVC I've added beads on elastic along one side and the a matching ribbon the other side. I then added stamped image that Vanessa printed for me. I painted with watercolours and added glitter glue to the stars and on the tutu skirt I added normal glitter. Also I just rubbed some pink chalk over the background to take a bit of the whiteness away. The letter are Quickutz, finally adding the pink heart charm and then a princess crown charm.

Well a week today will be my 22 wedding anniversary and the best bit my Nicki will be arriving home. I've missed her so much, plus it will be the first day of my summer holidays. I have so much crafting planned for the holidays I hope I get enough time to do it all lol. Have a good day everyone, big hugs vicki oxo's

From Linda

2008-07-17T06:20:00.002+01:00

Well I'm having a week of it, we all know what it's like the end of the summer term. And it's even worse when they are leaving to go to another school. There hasn't been a day or an evening free. I think I've seen/heard Amanda more this week than ever. So I've had no time to craft and I still have the teachers presents to sort! So while I'm having my hectic week can you image how chuffed I was to come home yesterday to a lovely parcel from Linda http://linda-wright.blogspot.com/. Inside was the card above, which is so lovely, she can see from my scanned in picture, but the piece on the top with the ribbon and buttons is on raised pads and it looks so effective. Something I will be doing for sure. Then there is glitter on the middle of the flower and the little feet have a clear gel on them to make them stand out. Not only did I get this beautiful card I also got loads of stamped images plus 3 other cards (not opened yet). One for my Nicki's birthday, one for our wedding anniversary and one for Mandy's birthday. And all this has been fitted in while Linda is trying to sort out packing for a holiday. So thank you once again Linda.

So no posting of my cards yet, but I'm busy doing the ABC challenge, hopefully finish that today, happy crafting and enjoy those concerts if you're going to loads like me. Just answer me one question, why does my little child always get to stand behind the tall child!!!!!!!! hugs Vicki oxo's

Friday Sketchers 10 and Jazz

2008-07-14T09:59:00.004+01:00

So another great sketch from Friday Sketchers http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/ I've done this card for one of our lads from sixth form. He's the same age to the day as my Nicki and such a lovely lad. I've done it with just colours as I thought that was best for Nick. I've used papers from my stash and tried to stamp Happy on the circle. It was ok but had to try 3 times before it came out ok. That's why I don't stamp. I then added Nick's name with Quickutz letters and finally added 3 gems.

I'm at home all day today, so hopefully a day to craft. My Mandy was up in the night being sick. She was crying because she wanted to go to school today, but as I type at 10am she's on the sofa fast asleep. I've been busy doing my jars for the teachers all weekend I'm 6 down and 6 to go. Now all I need to think about is which sweets to put inside. Hope all your little and big ones aren't coming down with this bug. I know poor Vanessa is not feeling 100% with a cough, I think it's all this bad weather, where's the sun gone. Hopefully saving itself for the summer holidays. Happy crafting everyone big hugs Vicki oxo's

oooo just managed to get a photo of Jazz our new kitten so here he is still for one second, he looks big but he's tiny. He's 11 weeks old now.

Linda's Blog Candy

2008-07-14T07:49:00.003+01:00

oooo more blog candy this time from Linda http://linda-wright.blogspot.com/ and it's such a great candy. Plus if you add a link you'll get to see some of the brill cards Linda has done. She's really good I've added her to my favourite blogs now so go on have a look and post a link too. Happy crafting Vicki oxo's

Maria's blog Candy

2008-07-14T07:25:00.002+01:00

ooo even more blog candy up for grab. And another one that has loads of goodies. Plus has some beautiful cards too, well worth a look just for the cards. I know I'll be back. It's Maria for this blog candy http://mariascards.blogspot.com/ good luck everyone hugs Vicki oxo's

Andrea's blog Candy

2008-07-12T18:43:00.002+01:00

Well feeling a bit down in the dumps today. It's my Nicki's 18th and of course she isn't here. She's having a whale of a time in Spain. I keep crying I know silly, but first birthday apart and I always go so over the top with birthday, always loads of balloons and banners etc etc. And it being a big birthday too. She rang this morning to say hi and wish Mandy good luck for her grade 3 flute exam. And both of us ended up in tears. She really is having a great time, but is missing me too bless. Only another 12 sleeps and she's home.
But I did get a smile on my face when I saw the great blog candy that Andrea has http://andreabrownjohn.blogspot.com/ go on have a look, plus look at her cards they are always amazing. This is one of my favourite blog for sure.
Have a good evening and hopefully I'll be up to crafting tomorrow. big hugs Vicki oxo's

ABC challenge 1 and 2

2008-07-11T09:43:00.003+01:00

Well I found this challenge on Linda's blog http://linda-wright.blogspot.com/ have a look at her cards they are lovely. So onto the challenge, this is a new challenge http://abc-challenge.blogspot.com/ and they are only on B so I thought I'd do both A and B. A was for Animal so did Georgia card with this lovely image that Vanessa gave me. The colours have scanned in funny, the card was lighter and the painting brighter, not sure what is going on with scanner. For this I used paper from my stash and painted image with watercolours then I added flowers on the plain pink card and finally a bit of glitter on the wings. B was for baby, and because I don't have any baby's to do a card for I thought I could get away with doing a card for one of our babies at school. Olivia will be 3 so still so little hope this counts. Again I used paper from my stash then added Tilda painted with watercolours then Birthday girl stamp. Finally adding names with Quickutz letters. Couldn't put too many bits on any of them as both girls will put them in their mouths so safety first.

Well my Nicki arrived yesterday lunch time and I got a text to say arrived safely it's really hot and sunny, oooooo yes Nicki it's Spain darling lol. She can be a bit blonde sometimes lol. Mandy is not missing her at all, think she's enjoying having time with us on her own and the bedroom to herself. I hope it's not raining with you, I wanted to put the washing out but skies here are black. Is this really July? Hope the sun starts shinning when the school holiday begin in 2 weeks. Whatever you're going enjoy your day big hugs Vicki oxo's

Missing Nicki

2008-07-10T09:40:00.003+01:00

Well my Nicki went on holiday yesterday, and I can't say how much I'm missing her. We both did the whole crying bit when she went. I was trying so hard not to cry, but she started and that was me gone lol. Silly really, but I'm very lucky and we're really close. So it's peaceful here with no rows between sisters, but Jazz the kitten is still Trouble when he's awake lol. So much mischief is something so small, but he's so cute he's getting away with it. When you tell him off he purrs at you bless him.

So with Nicki away I'm going to start getting on with all the cards and things I need to do before the summer holidays. Need all the children at school who have birthdays in the holiday to have a card. So I've started with 2 of the boys. Using the same challenge. It's a new challenge blog, that I found through Andrea. It's Stamp with Sarah Kay Challenge. This is challenge one and challenge 2 has just been posted so I thought start with one then do 2 tomorrow. http://stampwithsarahkay.blogspot.com/ She has some beautiful cards on there.

For these cards I used papers from my stash both images are painted with watercolours. I then added fish on Jamie's card which I got from the Early Learning Centre and Stars on Karl's card. I always put the names on the cards as the kids love it when they have their names on. . So that's today's crafting. I hope you are all having good crafting day big hugs for now Vicki oxo's

Ismaki challenge 27

2008-07-09T08:15:00.004+01:00

Well I loved this challenge I was looking for a good layout for my Daughter's 18th card and this was prefect. This is the Ismaki challenge 27 http://ismaki.wordpress.com/ I used papers from papermania's creative tones, Raspberry champagne, then some lace paper from my stash. I added images printed for me from Vanessa, which I painted with watercolours. I've added some red gems on the cushion and dark red ribbon . I made tag and added quickutz lemonade letters, then added ribbon and a brad with back cut off. Inside I have made a little book with a poem and next to each verse a picture of Nicki as she's grown up. The poem is

We look at you today and see the same beautiful eyes that looked at us with love when you were a baby.
We look at you today and see the same beautiful mouth that made us cry when you first smiled at us when you were a baby.

It was not long ago that we helf you in our arms long after you fell asleep and we just kept rocking you all night long.

We look at you today and see our beautiful daughter no longer a baby but a beautiful person with a full range of emotions and feelings and ideas and goals.

Every day is exciting as we continue to watch you grow and we want you to always know that we are so proud of the woman you've become.

We love you every minute of every day we love being your parents.

Congratulations on your 18th birthday. Wish you were here to give you a big birthday hug. Have a great day Angel.

It isn't her birthday till Saturday, but she's off today on holiday with her best friend Natalie and her family. They are off to Spain, it's the first time she been on a plane, and the longest she'll of been away from me. I'm dreading it, I've had tears, my little girl going away lol. But she's going to have the best time.

Well thanks for dropping by, hope the sun is shinning for at least some of you, it's pouring in Portsmouth. big hugs Vicki oxo's

Friday Sketchers 9

2008-07-08T06:16:00.005+01:00

Well I did have time to do one card yesterday, for a little one at school. For this card I used the Friday sketches challenge http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/ Although I've done a c6 card instead of a square. Another good sketch from them, why not give it a go. And let me know I'll leave you a comment.

Well the show was brill, all that hard work paid off and the kids had a fab time and all performed great. Now the real work has begun. We picked up cute little, timid, sleepy little Jazz our new kitten yesterday. Within a few hours he's turned our house upside down. How much trouble can one little thing get into???? He's already got stuck twice, jumped on top of the bird cage, this was at 2.30am. So poor Jack and us got the fright of ours lives. He likes watching the telly (when he can stay still long enough. He gets in all sort of trouble in an hour than peace is back while he sleeps for a couple of hours before trouble starts again!!! Trouble is when you tell him off he purrs at you and he's sooooo cute.

My oldest Nicki had all her hair cut off yesterday, she's had long hair and no fringe since she was 3. And now she has chin length hair and a fringe, I didn't like it at first, but I love it now.

Then yesterday my little Mandy had a trail day at her new senior school. She didn't have any of her friends going as they are all going to a different school. But when she came home she's made loads of friends and can't wait until tonight to see some again, when we go for talk and buy uniform. Don't think I'll have any worries in September. Well I'm hoping to get on with some crafting this morning before work, first a quick blog hop, hope you are all well and enjoying the summer we're not having!!!! big hugs Vicki oxo's

proud Mum moment

2008-07-02T19:42:00.004+01:00

Well I've been going on and on about the show, as some of you know my girls will be doing a show at The Kings Theatre on Sunday. I thought you might like to see some photos of my girls in their Tutu's. My oldest one Nicki is on pointe in one and the I think I love these photos going to have them blown up and give to family as presents. Thanks for looking and excuse the Mum moment hugs vicki oxo's

I've got an award

2008-07-02T06:47:00.002+01:00

I've been given an award from Vanessa http://www.nessysnotes.blogspot.com/ Thank you so much Vanessa, I'm chuffed. If you check out Vanessa's blog you'll see why she got this award from 2 people her crafting is beautiful. I have to pass the award on to 7 people, well Vanessa like you say there are so many brill blogs. So here are my awards, all of these blog I go to and think oooo my goodness how do they do it. Such beautiful crafting, they just know how to make everything look so finished, something I struggle with. So in no real order

Andrea http://andreabrownjohn.blogspot.com/

Jo http://fairymadjojo.blogspot.com/

Sharon http://shari-anne-happycrafter.blogspot.com/

Jo http://jo-onlyjoking.blogspot.com/

Emma http://elf-creations.blogspot.com/

Deb http://countrylovincardmaker.blogspot.com/

Anita http://anitacrafts.blogspot.com/

Ismaki challenge 26

2008-07-01T14:13:00.003+01:00

Well I do enjoy doing sketch challenges and Ismaki is one of my favourites. This week I've done a card for my youngest for the up coming show on Sunday. Now need to do one for my oldest. But will use another layout for her. So this is Ismaki challenge 26 http://ismaki.wordpress.com/ and I used papers from my stash. Painted the image with watercolours, and added glitter to her wings and some of the hearts on the paper. I then added Good luck from computer and finally added tira with heart gem, as they are wearing tira's on Sunday.

Have a lovely rest of the day, isn't this weather beautiful. hugs Vicki oxo's

A red white and Blue challenge

2008-06-30T09:36:00.004+01:00

I'm on a roll today, 2 posting in one day. Saw this challenge this morning and thought I'd give it a go, seeing my daughter wanted a card for a friend today! This challenge came from Stamp something Challenge http://stampchallenges.blogspot.com/ and was to use red, white and blue. It was anything but a card, but I did a card, because I needed a card, hay ho. I can't believe I didn't use any papers, a first for me. Plus I didn't have any that really fitted. I used red card for the Quickutz frame, added blue and while brads. Then Quickutz letters, then added 3 different ribbons. Finally added Tilda painted with watercolours. I did enjoy this challenge, why don't you give it a go. I'm off to work now, hope you all have a busy crafty day big hugs Vicki oxo's

Friday Sketchers 8

2008-06-30T06:23:00.002+01:00

Well I hope you've all had a lovely weekend. I know I have. I've had a truely me weekend. I've sorted the house, got up to date with all those horrible jobs and got things sorted for Jazz's (the new kitten) arrival next week. I didn't even go into dance, because if I just drop the girls there is always one or two Mums that grab me about costumes or the show. So naughty me stayed at home. My bits done now, back to being just a Mum, or it is until Thursday Tech and dress rehearsal and then Sunday the SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!! oooooo can't wait now.

So over the weekend I've had great fun sorting my crafting table, getting to know my stuff again, it's been a while. I picked up my revolution from the shop where it's been fixed. And then made cards. One of which was this one-

For this card I used the Friday Sketchers challenge no. 8 http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/ I used Paper from my stash and an image given to me all done from Vanessa. I used stronger colours for this card as it's for my MIL and she's not got that good a sight. I finished off with Quickutz flowers with added brad.

Had a great night out

2008-06-28T08:24:00.003+01:00

Steve and I were invited out for Cathie's birthday last night so had to do quick card. I did this card at about 5.30am yesterday morning. It was lovely, so peaceful and didn't have to worry about phone going or one of the girls wanting something. I really love purple so did this to my colours as not that sure what Cathie's colours are. I used downloaded papers added Tilda painted with watercolours then finished with a ribbon and buttons which have white tread in and finally added Happy Birthday.
Well Steve and I haven't been out in an age. We're not going out sort of people, but we had a great night at a local pub. Where freinds of Cathie's were playing in their band. The singer was amazing. I've heard her before and she has that kind of voice that makes the hair on the back of your neck raise. And at one point I was dancing with a drunk Miss Cathie (she's my girls dance teacher) round handbags. OOOOO yes that's bad and I felt dreadful as I don't drink so handbags were so there!!!! lol. No really a great night, cut a bit short as Steve had to start work at midnight. And we've promised ourselves that we'll go out next time they have an open gig ooooo get me, one night and I'm talking the talk lol.
Well I'm off to get some crafting done. No dance for me this weekend hooray! Have a great weekend everyone. big hugs oxo's Vicki

Ismaki challenge 25

2008-06-27T06:27:00.003+01:00

Well it's been another busy and funny week. I've not touched the sewing machine all week which is heaven. But I've been on the phone all week, sorting out costumes with Mum's that weren't just so. Most have been lovely, but a couple have been horrid. And one that hadn't done the 2 costumes she had at all. Told me she was far too busy to be making costumes. OOOO don't get me started lol. You all know how many I've been doing! But it's all sorted now and she did say sorry!
Also I booked an appointment for my Steve, because he's been having pains in his pacemaker site. He's only had the pacemaker 10 months, so they think it's when the pacemaker kicks in, he can feel the electic currant. Should settle more over the next year. Mind you a bit of a shock, when told that on average his heart is stopping twice a day. Thank Goodness for the pacemaker. To think this time last year he was running about 80 miles a week. He still runs, but is not back to his normal pace yet. No time at moment tooooooo busy with making ships for the show lol.
Well it's been sooooo lovely getting back to my crafting and hopping around looking at your blogs. There has been some amazing cards done by you all while I've had my back turned. Well done to you all, Have a great day, enjoy the sun big hugs oxo's Vicki

I've done this card using the Ismaki challenge 25 http://ismaki.wordpress.com/ I used paper from a wedding pad then added flowers (from Noleen) and brads. Image was painted with watercolours and finally I added peel off and a little bit of glitter on the flowers.

Cup cake challenge 21

2008-06-25T08:21:00.004+01:00

Well I'm on a roll, 2 cards in 2 days. For this card I did the Cup cake Challenge 21 http://www.tayloredexpressions.blogspot.com/ For this I used card and paper from a QVC tsv. Then added stamped image (one that Vanessa sent me) painted with watercolour paints. Added black ribbon and different coloured brad. Finally adding Josh's name. This is for a very special little boy who's going to be 7 today. And has every member of staff wraped round his finger. And I'm well chuffed as he's just learnt to say my name. He's coming on so much and is also learning to walk so coming on in leaps and bounds. Well done Josh and I think it's 2 puddings today lol.

Happy crafting everyone. Enjoy your day hugs Vicki oxo's

Friday Sketchers 7

2008-06-24T09:05:00.003+01:00

For my first card in ages I've chosen to do the Friday sketchers http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/ I've used paper from my stash and some velum. It doesn't show up well, but you can see the dots under the velum a bit better on the card itself. I added Edwin painted with watercolours. Then stamped Happy Birthday and then added TommyLee's name with Quickutz letters.

Well I can't tell you how good it feels to be posting a card. I'm finally coming to the end of costumes. Dress rehearsal was Sunday and most costumes were brill. Have to phone some Mums just to do a few odd bits, but myself the sewing machine is away phew! My Nicki counted up that I made 53 costumes oooo my goodness I knew I'd done loads. No wonder I had no time for crafting. So now it's count down to the show itself, which in on the 6th July. I can't wait, and then on the 7th July Jazz our new kitten will arrive at our house. So it's all calm and I'm back to blogging everyday (I hope lol). Thank you all for putting up with me while I've been busy. I've had some great comments left when I've posted. I will now try and visit all your blogs. big hugs oxo's Vicki

Cute card Thursday Challenge 14

2008-06-15T05:51:00.002+01:00

Well as you know I haven't been doing many cards because of the show. But I had to do a card for Mandy's friend. And after visiting Andrea's blog and seeing her great card I thought I'd do the Cute card Thursday Challenge 14. http://cutecardthursday.blogspot.com/ The challenge is to use 3 different embellishments. So for this card I used ribbon on the ballet shoes and between the papers, pink gems on the ballet skirt and different beads on elastic for the side. So a real girly card for her dance friend. I used paper from my stash and painted the image with watercolours. Then added Quickutz ballet shoes, and letters.

I don't think I'll be posting much this week as I'm working full time this week. And have final costumes to give out and make for dress rehearsal next Sunday. Then it will hopefully be a huge sign and nothing to do except get excited and take girls to extra rehearsals for the show on the 6th July. Next week at dress rehearsal I will take photo, so you can all see the costumes I've been going on and on about lol. Have a happy crafting week, big hugs Vicki oxo's

Presents

2008-06-13T06:57:00.004+01:00

Well my Mandy is off to a sleepover tonight. And I needed to do a little present for the little girl. Money a bit short because of all the show stuff. So I thought do a bookmark (idea from Vanessa) then I thought I'd do one of the jars I've been saving for thank you presents for the teachers, when Mandy leaves school in July. I filled the jar with sweet, so even if she doesn't like the jar she'll like the sweets lol.

For both items I used paper I got from QVC then added Tilda's and books painted in watercolours. I added the names with Quickutz letters and hearts. And finished off with matching ribbons. I really enjoyed making these, now to do her card.

Thank you all so much for Bering with me while I've been busy with the show. Only 1 week til dress rehearsal, and 3 weeks til the show!!!!!! Can't wait now, but after dress rehearsal it will be making the scenery. We have 2 giant boats to make!!!!!! Are we mad!!!!!!!! I promise photos of costumes and everything soon. big hugs Vicki oxo's

Friday Sketchers

2008-06-09T10:09:00.004+01:00

For these 2 cards I used Friday Sketchers number 5 http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/ I decided to do a boy and girl card for a couple of children at work. Who's birthdays are coming up soon. I used paper from my stash along with painted images with watercolours. .

Well I've had the best weekend ever. We gave my 17 year old a surprise pre 18th birthday. As she will be away for her birthday. I invited 14 of her mates round. And she slept round Elise's house. So when she came home the front room was covered with balloons, banners, embarrassing pictures. She walked in and myself, her Dad and sister plus best friend Nat were the only ones there singing. Then half was through "Happy Birthday" the other burst through the door singing as well. She had no idea and was really chuffed. She now has all her new clothes and everything she needs for her holiday in July. And one very happy Mummy, who can't believe my baby is so nearly 18!!!!!! big hugs and enjoy the sun everyone Vicki

Cards at last!

2008-06-07T05:20:00.005+01:00

Well I started the week well with all good thoughts of doing cards everyday. And blogging everyday, but costumes got the better of me and they are taking over my life. But good news is there is a huge light at the end of the tunnel. I've only got 3 pairs of trousers to finish off. Then one pair to alter, pirate trousers, pirates shirt and 2 pirates waistcoats to make. I can't believe it, it's looking good for dress rehearsals on the 22nd. Today I'm off to dance all day to give out the tutu's, leotards, catsuits etc etc that have been in boxes in my front room for what seems like a life time lol. I have my front room back and nearly a dinning room table back.

So all the cards above were done at the beginning of the week, the last 3 were done with last weeks Friday sketch. And the top one is a real quick card for a friend who asked me to knock up a card for her Mum!!!!! I hope you've all had good weeks and have enjoyed some good crafting days. big hugs for now Vicki oxo's

Ismaki challenge 21

2008-06-04T06:17:00.005+01:00

These are the 2 cards, I had to finish yesterday. So now they are done now. I used a mixed of papers from my stash. For the Christmas card I added 2 green gems and pre-printed wording for finish off. Then for the birthday card I added computer printed wording "Have a buzzing Birthday". Then finished off with 2 ladybirds that I've had in my little box for years, knew I'd use them someday lol. Well I'm enjoying being back at the cards. Although I still have costumes to do, there doesn't seem such a rush on it all now. This weekend I will be giving out 100's of leotard, tutu and catsuits. I will be so thankful to get rid of all the boxes. But couldn't give out a bit at a time. The rows would of been a nightmare! big hugs and enjoy the sun if it's shinning with you Vicki oxo's

Sharon has some Blog Candy!

2008-06-03T07:21:00.003+01:00

Hi all just to let you know Sharon has Blog Candy up for grabs. http://shari-anne-happycrafter.blogspot.com/ She also has beautiful cards to look at. So it's worth a visit to her site, if only to have a look. Enjoy x Vicki x

Ismaki challenge 21

2008-06-03T06:40:00.003+01:00

My first crafting and card I've done for over a week and it did feel good to be back at my table. For this card I used Ismaki challenge 21. http://ismaki.wordpress.com/ Yes I know it's a week old and the new challenge has been posted, but I didn't want to miss out on a good sketch. I have done 3 of these sketches but I have painted the other 2 yet, so hopefully get those done today ready for posting tomorrow.

For this card I used Paper from my stash. Image was one given to me from Vanessa. I added faux stitching, painted the image with watercolour paints then finally added the flowers.

Hope you are all ok, and doing loads of crafting while our beautiful summer is going on outside!!!!!! Where did the sun go??? big hugs to everyone Vicki oxo's

A reward and tag from Noleen

2008-06-01T06:45:00.008+01:00

Sorry I've not done any cards. I've been busy with costumes and having a cold bug. Back to work tomorrow boo hoo. The best bit about the holidays was having Vanessa, Paul and boys round on Thursday. Was so great to see them all. Happy Crafting, hope to do some crafting this week big hugs Vicki

I've been tagged by Noleen, a real good one too. I love these tags, you find out so much and I love a nosey lol. The rules of the game get posted at the begining. Each player answers the questions about themselves. At the end of the post the player then tags 5-6 people and posts their names and then goes to their blog and posts them a comment letting then know they've been tagged and asks them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you've posted your answer:

1. Ten years ago
Well Ten years ago, I had Mandy coming up for 1 and Nicki nearly 8. My darling Dad was still here, so life was good. I would of been busy being Mum, and spent all my days playing with Mandy and Nicki, once she was home. Then in the evenings off to work at The big Co-op stacking shelves. I meet my best friend Kim there, and we're still the best of friends. We use to have a right laugh at work.
2. Five things in todays to do list;.
Cor I wish I only had 5 things to do.
Well I have costumes to make.
Washing
Ironing
Get stuff ready for work and school tomorrow
Cook a roast
and loads more lol, so why am I typing lol.

3. Snacks i enjoy;.
Anything really and it depends on my mood, but love Marmite crisps, and of course chocolate.
4. Things I would do if I were a millionaire;.
Buy a house which overlooked the sea, with a garden. I live in a flat so a garden would be heaven. Open a craft shop with a creche for husbands, which would have a tv for sport and pool tables etc. So the woman could spend as long as they wanted looking for stuff. I'd build a dance school for Nicki so she could teach in her own school. And while Mandy is only young she'd only like her own room and a flute please. And my husband can be in charge of the creche!
5. Places i have lived;.
Well I've only lived in Portsmouth and I love it, so boring. But I would move closer to the sea bit. Moorings Way would be heaven, sea in the front and nice green at the back.
So that's my answers. I'm only going to pass this on to Vanessa, http://www.nessysnotes.blogspot.com/as loads of you have done this already I expect. If you haven't give it a go it's fun.

Well how chuffed was I when I got this Circle of Friends reward from Noleen http://noodlesoflove.blogspot.com/ We've only been talking for a while, but she's great. And her cards are brill. So a big thank you to Noleen. I would like to pass this award on to everyone who visits my blog. Because we're all friends, and you all work so hard at making great work of your blogs. Well done to you all my Friends.

An award

2008-05-26T06:40:00.002+01:00

Well I'm so chuffed I've got an award from Vanessa http://nessysnotes.blogspot.com/ my bestest crafting friend. I must admit she gave it too me an age ago, but I've been soooo busy I nearly forgot about it. I would like to give it back to Vanessa and all those of you that I visit and who visit my blog. I love looking and getting more ideas and wonder at the amazing cards you come up with. With all your help, my own cards are coming on slowly. Thank you all, and thanks for putting up with me later, when I've been so busy with costumes. Happy crafting Vicki oxo's

Happy Birthday Aaron

2008-05-22T19:00:00.002+01:00

Good evening everyone, well another busy week doing costumes. I have taken some more photos but have to wait for my Nicki to take them off the camera and onto the computer for me. She's been feeling so poorly this week and has been fighting on. She is on her last week at collage before all her final A level exams. Plus she is doing loads of extra rehearsals for the show, and extra teaching again for the show. So I think she's a bit run down. Hopefully she'll be a lot better after next weeks half term. Again I'm sorry that I haven't been visiting you all. But I'm getting to the end of costumes so hopefully another week or so and I'll be finished. big hugs to you all happy crafting Vicki oxo's

This card was done for a very special boy Aaron (Vanessa's eldest). Was so hard to think of something for him. I know he loves Dr Who, so my Nicola took a photo of Aaron and added it first to a picture of all the Doctors, then for the inside she put Aaron face on a picture of the Dr. The papers I used were from a QVC tsv, along with the card. Then finished off with Aaron's name and age using Quickutz letters.

Blogger Friday Sketch

2008-05-20T10:00:00.006+01:00

Well hello everyone, I've been so busy with costumes, I haven't had time to craft. But I had to get some done for work. I found this new challenge http://fridaysketchersblog.blogspot.com/ as you can see I enjoyed it so much I did 3 cards. 2 for the kids at work and another one for Christmas. Again sorry I haven't been around a lot I will try to get round to see all your wonderful blogs soon. I'm really missing seeing all your beautiful cards. So keep up the good work, so I have loads to see once I'm back. hugs vicki oxo's

For these card I used Papercraft Inspirations paper. And paper from QVC TSV. All images are painted with watercolour paints. Then I added Flower from Noleen, punched out balloons, and finally star gems.

Sorry I'm not around and Aoife's card

2008-05-15T07:10:00.003+01:00

Hi all, I'm so sorry I'm so busy with costumes, I don't know when I will get back to daily blogging. Please forgive me if I haven't put a comment of your blog for a long time. I've taken on so much. My list is 5 Cloaks, 8 pairs of sailors trousers, 11 sailors collars, 3 sailors skirts, 3 petticoats, 2 Aqua ballet outfits, 2 pirates outfits, 1 pair of boys ballet trousers, 1 Poet shirt and finally I Pierrot costume. Now I've finished 6 items so I'm doing ok. But this is the reason I'm not about, I need to get them all done as soon as poss. Would help if Mum's would hurry up buying the material, but hay ho. Again please forgive me I will be back soon, I'm missing my crafting table and I'm fed up already of hoovering up cotton lol. Take care enjoy your crafting big hugs oxo's Vicki I did this card a few weeks ago, but only posting it now as Aoife has had her birthday now. For this card I used Papercraft Inspirations paper, pink card. Papermania rub ons and pink ribbon. The image is painted with watercolours.

Tilda and Friends challenge

2008-05-12T15:32:00.003+01:00

For this card I thought I'd nick the Tilda and Friends ATC challenge, http://tildaandfriends.blogspot.com/ which is bugs. I've just been looking at so many good Blogs with this challenge on and thought ok I'll put it on a card. I've made it for Jodie at work. It's not her birthday til the end of the month so I'm ahead of myself for a change. I used Papermania paper, then added gardening Tilda with a snail and ladybug.

Anto in his costumes

2008-05-11T12:03:00.004+01:00

This is Anto, in the 2 costumes I've made for him. The first one is for a quary person, and there will be times on the stage when only one side of the costume is shown, so good for effect. Then the other costume is for a death song hence the look on his face lol. So this is what I've been busy doing for the last few days. And I still have loads to do. So I hope you are all enjoying the sunshine and not stuck in like me, tied to the sewing machine boo hoo. So little time and so many things to make. Sunny hugs x Vicki x

Meet ---------- Bishop

2008-05-10T04:49:00.003+01:00

Good morning everyone, I'm up sooooo early this morning, I just can't sleep. My head is full of 101 things. Like remember navy cotton, get more pins, take Jo's measurements, sort Millie's sequins etc etc etc lol. So I finally gave up trying to sleep at 4am.
So this little fellow is going to be the newest member to our family come 7th July. He/she (not sure yet) will be 2 weeks old on Sunday and is black with a white chin, paws and the very tip of it's tail Arrrrrrr! Mandy was made up yesterday and is sooooo happy. If you could of seen her little face. When the woman opened the door and we walked in she said oooo This is Mum, as the Mother cat walked by us. But as Mandy thought I was going to do a costume fitting, she told us later in the car, she thought what a strange name for a Cat lol. I then told her that we'd come to look at a kitten. Well come on you all know that look on a child face when they are sooooo pleased, excited, chuffed etc, ooooo it was priceless. The kitten will be ready to leave it's Mum at the end of June, but we've asked the lady to keep it until after the show, as with rehearsal etc we'll be out of the house loads. So the day after the show -------- Bishop will come home. So now for names we can't choose yet, but think we have a short list of Minstrels, Humbug, Spats (like the tap shoes) Jess (postman pat) Domino or maybe Jazz or Jazzy. Any ideas? If you can think of any good ideas I'd be grateful. Well have a great day, enjoy the sun again if it's out. Moon still out here lol. hugs for now Vicki oxo's

2 I made earlier

2008-05-09T05:36:00.004+01:00

OOooo what a day yesterday, so hectic. The weather was beautiful and I think everyone I saw was in a good mood. Even my big big boss who popped into the kitchen to see us.
I've found a kitten for July, I'm so excited because we're going to see it tonight (don't know the sex yet). Mandy doesn't know anything about it yet. I'm going to surprise her tonight. I was soooo tempted to tell her last night, as she had another bad attack. And she looked so poorly, but hopefully the new inhalers will kick in soon and she'll be more managed. So tomorrow I hopefully will be posting photos of our new kitten. It's only a week old, so might not take any photos if it will upset Mum or babies. Well this morning I'm going to be making costumes, so no cards for me today or tomorrow. I hope where ever you are the sun is shinning on you and you all have a fab day doing all the things you enjoy hugs for now Vicki oxo's This card was done for Vanessa, just to say hi and what a good friend she is. I sent it to her with some card which I'm hoping will be good for HER watercolouring. The layout is the My paper world challenge http://mypaperworld.blogspot.com/ I've got one of these layouts on my blog already, done for a boy. But this one was done first, but I couldn't post before Vanessa got it lol. For this card I used Papermania Raspberry champagne papers, some pearl pink card. Then I added some stamped corners and little saying. The tilda is painted with watercolour paints and finally I added Quickutz love heart sweets.

I did this card for Noleen, as a little thank-you for the lovely goodies she sent me. For this I used a c6 card then added the square with the image on to the top. For the papers I used were from papercraft inspirations. The image is painted with watercolour paints and finally adding a white ribbon and the little saying was also from papercraft inspirations.

Ismak challenge 18

2008-05-08T08:45:00.003+01:00

Well I hope we're all enjoying the sunshine. Doesn't it make you feel good to see the sun. And I'm very sad, but isn't it nice to get on top of all the washing. Getting it washed and dried in one day. I'm finding it very hot at work. In the kitchen, while we've got the food out, we're not to have the windows open, and also we have long trousers, closed in shoes and a hairnet and hat, phew! But so lovely when we get changed for going home. Well I hope you are all getting loads of crafting done, enjoy the sun, hugs x Vicki x For this card I used the Ismak Challenge 18 http://ismaki.wordpress.com/ another great challenge. I really enjoy their sketches. For the paper on this card I used Papermania Raspberry Champagne collections. added pink ribbon and the little girls name and age with Quickutz letters. The image was one Noleen sent me which I painted with watercolours. Finally adding 3 mini gold gems and 2 silver gems. This card is for one of our new children in the Nursery and she's a real little sweetheart, and loves pink, hence sooooo much pink.

Boys card for work

2008-05-06T15:24:00.003+01:00

Well funny old day yesterday. Got soooo much done, finished the first lot of ordering for costumes. Made a pair of trousers for a costume. And went to see about getting a rescue cat. Boo hoo we can't have a rescue cat because we haven't got our own garden. Well yes I know they have rules, but how many cats do you know that stay in their own garden. Hay ho means we're on the look out for a kitten. Have about 9 weeks to find one, and I've put the word out. Someones got to know someone with an expecting cat. Well happy crafting everyone, I'm off to blog hop, big hugs x Vicki x This card was done for a little boy at school. He's going to be 6 so was lucky that there are 6 candles. For this card I used Dovecraft Papers, and painted the image with watercolours. Then finally I added Quickutz letter for Charlie's name. They do like there names on the card.

This is another card I've done for one of the boys at work. Seems to be a run on birthdays for the boys at the moment. For this card I used Papercraft Inspirations papers, the image is one that Noleen sent me. Then I added quickutz sign post, with papermania rubons, then finally added quickutz letters for Ashley's name.

My Paper World Sketch 9

2008-05-05T11:08:00.002+01:00

I've done this sketch twice today, but can only post one at the moment because someone who the other card is for might see it. I did their card first, and enjoyed the sketch so much I thought I'd do it again. For this card I used Dovecraft Papers, adding Papermania rubons to the circles. Then I painted the image with watercolour paints. Why don't you pop and see the sketch and others cards to http://mypaperworld.blogspot.com/ They have some brill sketch in the older posts.
Well I can hear the girls nearly killing each other in the bedroom. OOOO sometimes!!!!!! They were little angels yesterday, helping me with costumes. I made a floor length cape with Hood yesterday, this one is for Anto. I have at the moment another 3 of these to do, but I'm waiting for the Mums to get the material. It was an easy make, but so heavy with all the material, I used over 5 meters. This afternoon I'm going to tackle a Pierot costumes in Flo Gold and Fuchsia wow! Think it's going to look great. Hope you all have a good day, enjoy the extra day off work, lovely. hugs x Vicki x

Happy May Day

2008-05-04T09:16:00.003+01:00

Well haven't been around for a few days, been sooo busy sorting dance stuff, and it will be like this until July, so if I don't pop by to see you in a while please pop a nagging comment on my blog and I'll promise I'll come and see your blog. I hope you're all going to enjoy the May bank holiday, is anyone going to watch a mayday pole dance I haven't seen one of those in years. Lovely to see little ones doing it all dressed up. Well whatevery your doing over the weekend have a good one hugs for now oxo's

I did this card for Pauline at work, her sister got married yesterday, so I hope she liked her card from Pauline. The colour theme for the wedding was blue, so tried to keep to that colour. I painted the image with watercolour paints, then added to the blue flower paper I got from google and a sort of sky blue paper I've had for ever. I printed the words from computer then added Quickutz champage flutes and heart bubbles.

Ismak challenge 17

2008-05-01T08:20:00.002+01:00

Hello all, well another week nearly over, where does the time go. Mandy has the day off because her school is a Polling Station, so she's taking it easy, well that's what she said lol. This afternoon we're off to the hospital, not sure what they will say hopefully we'll get the inhalers sorted, had forgotten how poorly she could get with her asthma, since her doctor put the inhalers up. So really not sure if they will put her back up, of weather they will say it was just one of those things. I'll let you know tomorrow. So I'm off to sort a wedding card, for one of the girls at work. Have a good day hugs Vicki oxo's

For this card I used the Ismaki Challenge 17 http://ismaki.wordpress.com/ Lovely new layout, although I didn't do one part. To be honest I didn't see it the first time I look at the sketch. So I will do another card with the full layout. For this card I used Papercraft Inspritations papers, Added white paper printed on the computer, then painted Tilda with watercolour paints. Then added 3 shells on blue elastic. (shells from ELC). Another great fun sketch, so now to do again but with extra bit I missed out lol.

No cards yesterday.

2008-04-30T07:35:00.005+01:00

Well had one of those days yesterday, one step forward and two back lol. I did the Ismak challenge and put the card in the scanner, then thought that doesn't look right. Left the card on the side and went to work. When I came home I saw I'd forgotton to paint the picture. And for the life of me I couldn't see what I'd missed lol. I've lost it lol. So I'll finish that today. I was given loads of photos yesterday. I'm going to make a scrapbook for my best friends 40th. So if anyone has any scrapbook challenge site, so I can make each page different I would love to hear about them. Have a good day, hope you don't get caught in the rain, happy crafting hugs Vicki This card was for one of the lads at school. As you can see he's 14, he was really excited with the card, but his helper took it off him as he like to suck things lol. But it put a smile on his face.

I did this card for one of the girls at work. I didn't go over the top with details as I know I will be doing the Christening card, so want to do more on that one. I used Papercraft Inspirations papers. Painted the tilda bear with watercolour paints. This was a lot lighter but I think my copier makes all my cards a lot brighter.

Thank you to Vanessa and Noleen

2008-04-28T20:22:00.003+01:00

Look what a surprise I got in the post on Saturday, when I came home from a long hard day at dance. All these goodies and the beautiful card were from Noleen, I was so chuffed, a big thank you Noleen, I don't know what to use first, the lovely papers or the stamps images or the flowers etc etc so much stuff, lucky girl aren't I. And another lovely surprise.

This beautiful card was given to my Mandy by Vanessa, she was really pleased, and she thought Vanessa had put the cat on just because she's wants a kitten for her birthday. Put a big smile on a little face, thank you Vanessa.

Niece's and sister in laws cards

2008-04-28T07:56:00.003+01:00

So today is another busy day for me, but I'm hoping to nip to the craft shop for just some card lol. I wonder what else might fall in the basket. I need to do a card for one of the children at work and also my work mate has asked me to do a christening acceptance card for her. So that's me sorted for the day, hope you all get done what's on your to do lists, if anyone finishes early, do you fancy giving me a hand. I could do with someone making me lasagne for tea. I'll do the white sauce if you could do the mince I'll be chuffed thanks happy crafting hugs x Vicki x This is the other card I did yesterday and this one is to go with the Tilda basket of love card. So again I wanted one to be different. For this I used Paper and stamp that Vanessa gave me. Image painted with watercolours, then added wording with Quickutz Moxie alphabet.

I've done this card for my sister in law, it's to go with the Tilda blue card I did. So I wanted it to be very different. Must admit the 2 together look ok. For this card I used Paper mania double sided card for the coloured card, then added Penny Black stamped image painted in watercolours then added wording from Papermania rubons.

2008-04-27T10:14:00.003+01:00

Hello all, well I wasn't around yesterday as it was another full day at dance, trying to get all the costumes sorted. Well I'm nearly there, only another 18 kids to catch and pin down for costumes fittings. But now costume lists have gone out and I'm now have Mums ringing me for info. All very well, but it's all written down lol. But not long until July now, and it will be over, and I won't know what to do with my free time, ooooo I've just remembered, I'm into cards lol.

So another quick card which I've done for my niece, who will be 22 at beginning of May. But she's away so need to pop the card over today. I used paper that I've had for years, added the tilda with basket of heart for the loads of love in a basket theme. Then printed wording on computer and finally added a couple of purple buttons with green elastic. Off to try and get another card done for her from the girls, Have a good day everyone, hope you haven't got thunder and lightening like us. hugs Vicki x

Sweet Sugar Challenge

2008-04-25T07:41:00.004+01:00

For this card I did the Sweet Sugar Challengehttp://sweetsugarchallenges.blogspot.com/ I thought ooooo easy challenge to not use patterned paper, but no it wasn't, kept thinking oooo that would look nice, ooooo no it's patterned lol. But that's why it's called a challenge I guess. I used a mixture of card from The Paper Mill and Papermania. The pink is pearl card. I painted the Pennyblack stamp with watercolours, then added peel off stickers and stamped the with love.
No postings for me yesterday, was feeling rough, had a really back headache. So ended up going to bed after work to get rid of it. Mandy is getting there, and is back off to school today. She'll be taking it easy, and won't be going out at playtime. But with asthma, sometimes you just have to carry on. Her levels are still low, but she's ok taking things easy. So sorry if I haven't paid you a visit in a while, I'm trying to fit everything in. Happy day everyone, enjoy your crafting hugs x Vicki x

2 challenges yesterday

2008-04-23T06:39:00.005+01:00

Well back to work for me today. My Mandy is still bad, and I can't get her levels up higher than 240, but my Nicki isn't in collage until 2, so she's going to look after Mandy while I'm at work. Then it will be a quick rush home to swap over. Steriods don't seem to be doing anything. But fingers crossed she'll be on the mend soon. Hope you are all ok and enjoying your crafting. I'm off to blog hop so you might get a comment and hello from me. Happy crafting today hugs Vicki x This challenge was the Paper Take Challenge http://papertakeweekly.blogspot.com/ This was a sketch challenge. My favourite kind of challenge and I love this layout. One I can see me using again and again. It makes it easy for putting on a name for work. So this week I have Ryan's birthday. Who is going to be 13, and has the most flirty eyes. In fact he has to have his wheelchair faced away from the kitchen as he spends his time flirty with us in the kitchen, instead of looking at his helper feeding him. When he comes into the dinning room. I always greet him with Hello Handsome, and he loves it lol. See we flirt too. For this card I used Paper which Vanessa (nessy's notes) gave me ages ago. Then card from The Paper Mill. Also the gold paper has silver glitter in it, but that doesn't show on the picture. Circle and letters cut with Vanessa's Squeeze, (still no word on my Revolution). Image painted with watercolour paints, and then Birthday boy stamped on circle.

And this challenge was the Tilda & Co Girly but blue challenge http://magnoliachallengeblog.blogspot.com/ I don't think I could of got more blue lol. But it was good and I liked it. For this I used Papermania Dots, then the card was from The Paper mill, I painted the tilda with watercolours and finished off with blue glitter on the stars. Then added white ribbon and bow.

I've been tagged by Noleen

2008-04-22T14:36:00.002+01:00

Thanks for the Tag Noleen,http://noodlesoflove.blogspot.com/ I like this one
I have 8 questions to answer.
1.If a movie was being made of your life who would you like to be cast to play you? And why?
2. You have to spend a whole month on a desert island for charity and you have to choose your favourite celebrity to spend the first two weeks worth & your least favourite to spend the last two weeks with. Who would they be and why?
3. What are your three favourite crafting products?
4. If you could invent something to do anything what do you think it would be?
5. What are the last three books that you read?
6. QVC or Create & Craft?
7. Docrafts or Dovecraft or DCWV?
8. What is your claim to fame?

Good questions. So here goes.
1. Well it would have to be Audrey Hepburn, yes I know she's not here anymore, but who's going to make a movie on me lol. So why, do you have to ask, she's talented, and stunnly (is that a word) beautiful. All just like me lol I wish lol
2. Now this is hard, do I go for the handsome Robinson Green, to while away the hours, or someone like Stephen Fry, a very clever man, who I could learn a lot from. Now the least favourite is easy, Bonnie Langford, do I need to say why???????
3. My 3 favourite crafting things easy, my x-cut guillotine, my Quickutz, and all papers.
4. Now I think I would invent a machine to change time. Make my crafting hour last 5 hours and housework time last ooooo lets say 10mins. Now wouldn't that be heaven.
5. Books were Audrey Hepburn-An elegant sprit, written by her son and great read. The 6th Harry Potter book, have got the last one, but don't want to read it, don't want anyone else to die. And loads of cook books, just to feed the family.
6. Watch QVC sometimes, but more for ideas, too expensive. And I haven't heard of the other one.
7. ooooo that's two hard, but at a push it would be Dovecraft, DCWV then very close behind Do-crafts
8. I was on runaround with my school. With Mike Read, what a magical day Runarounddddddddd!

Of course who I tag is easy I tag the lady who started my blog and my bestest crafting friend Vanessa http://www.nessysnotes.blogspot.com/ Have a look at her blog it's great. hugs oxo's

Cup cake challenge

2008-04-22T08:12:00.003+01:00

For this card I thought I'd try a new challenge. So this one is Cup cake challenge 12 http://www.tayloredexpressions.blogspot.com/. For this card I used a mixture of papermania paper and card and Daisy buckets, bloomin paislies. Then the Penny Black stamp was painted with watercolours and finally I added the ribbon. A fun challenge I enjoyed.

As for my Mandy, yes another chest infection. OOOO I was happy when the hospital lowered her inhalers, now I'm not so sure. Her peak flow levels are about 1/3 down, and she's on steriods and Amoxicillin. So another day off school. But hopefully back tomorrow. I'm lucky to have a very good welfare officer who can deal with Mandy's asthma really well, so she doesn't have to miss too much school. Plus I'm missing work now, wondering what the kids are doing lol.

I'm hoping to get some crafting done again this morning, while Mandy sleeps. So hopefully get on top of the fourth coming birthdays. Hope you all have a good day, hugs x Vicki x

Ismak challenge 16

2008-04-21T14:37:00.002+01:00

I've used Ismak challenge 16 for this card. The four papers are from Paper Inspirations. I added saying from computer, then papermania rub on for the title. The stamped image is painted with watercolours, then finished with pink gem flowers. Another brill and fun challenge. Why not give it a go http://ismaki.wordpress.com/2008/04/21/challenge-ismaki-16-beatrix/#comments hopefully this is a link to the challenge and comments page. Have fun, hugs Vicki x

RIP Lloyd

2008-04-21T07:40:00.002+01:00

Well no post yesterday and no visits. Saturday was a bad day. Very long story, but to cut it short. Had a policeman knock on the door, asking when I'd last seen my neighbour Lloyd. His wife was away and he hadn't gone to work. They found the door was bolted from the inside and poor Lloyd had gone to sleep forever. Bless him a lovely lovely man, who a couple of weeks ago saw snow for the first time. So yesterday, found out so much about his culture. There was a house full, of howling women, with the men outside. Sound dreadful, but it wasn't. Was told it's their way of getting the grief out. And to be honest it's better out than in. For any of us that have been in grief, us British hold it all in and keep up a stiff upper lip which isn't good for us. Then in the afternoon there was dancing and singing, sending his sprit up, although I didn't see, it sounded amazing. So it's rip Lloyd, such a fun filled man, who went too soon, bless him.
And now today, when I'm meant to be back at work. My Mandy is really ill with her asthma. She's been so well and when she went to the hospital 5 weeks ago, they put her inhalers down. As she was on loads for a little one. But looks like when we go for another hospital appointment next week they might put her back on the old ones again. So this morning I'm off to the doctors, might need steriods to pick her levels up. And a day indoors, which will be good as it's pouring with rain, and sooooo dark outside. And maybe I'll get some cards done.
So I hope you all have a good day, happy crafting and enjoy all the challenges this week. I look forward to seeing them hugs Vicki x

Happy birthday Natalie

2008-04-19T09:22:00.005+01:00

Hi all, I did find time to do a card for my Nicki to give to Natalie. My Nicki is the one in pink, girly but with jeans and hair wild. Natalie the taller one pretty girly, but not a pinky girl. They are sitting on ribbon, and the gems are pink hearts which doesn't show up on the picture. Nicki pick a really lovely verse to go inside and when she gave it to Nat she cried, bless her. Such a lovely girl and great friend to Nicki, we wouldn't know what to do without her.
Sorry if I haven't been to your blog, but I keep trying to blog hop, but the door bell keeps ringing and it's another child coming for costume fittings. I promise I will come soon. Why don't you leave me a nag comment and I'll remember to visit you lol. Hope you all have fun today, weather you are crafting or not big hugs x

This is another 2 costumes for the show, my favourite is the one with green on it. My Nicki is wearing this. It tights dyed on the arms and legs, they will be either emerald green, winsor purple, 0r cherry flame colour, then the zig-zags are whale net tights (much bigger than fish nets). Then it's jazz boots and knee pads and best of all a black tutu, they look fab, real grown up. And finished with a cool mask. I will post a picture of my Nicki in this costume once we have it all done.

The other costume is for the Ice Snow Queen and only 1 child is wearing this. You can just see that she has a fine floor length cape, which will be trimed with white and silver maraboo. Charlie who is the Queen will be on pointe. And the little dots you see will be sequins, ooooo don't fancy putting all those on. So that's more costumes done, still waiting for another 10 to come. So another busy time ahead. But I'm enjoying it.

2008-04-18T09:11:00.002+01:00

Well good morning everyone, hope you're all good today. I'm feeling good today, as I went to a barn dance last night. OOOOO I did have a laugh, but I'm a bit sore today lol. I'm not very good, and I don't know my left from right so my Nicki gave me a sticker to place on my right hand. That caused a laugh in it's self, but at least I was going the right way. I also finished all the costume sheets I had which was 28. So all those are ready to go out to Mums on Monday. I'm still waiting for 10 costume pictures, so that I can add the details and info needed, but we're getting there hooray! With all the popping in and out of children coming for costume fittings, I didn't get any cards done yesterday, but I got up bright and early to do the above card for Natalie, my Nicki best friend, who is 18 tomorrow and who as I type is fast asleep in Mandy's bed lol. So this was quick quick. I'm hoping I will have time before she gets up, or when she goes home to do one for Nicki to give her. So fingers crossed I get the time. I hope you get time to craft too, and I can't wait to see your work hugs for now Vicki x

What I've been up to!

2008-04-17T07:22:00.007+01:00

Hello everyone, so I thought today I show you some of the costumes we've been working on. The drawings were done by Tracey, the thoughts and ideas are from Cathie and Caroline. My job is to put everything onto computer and type up all the instructions. These and just a very few of the costumes. The 2 at the top our for the ice ballet. They are a classic tutu, which is trimed with silver droplets and the dots on the skirt will be sequins, all sewn on one at a time. Then there a headdress of pearls, and of course their ballet tight and either ballet or pointe shoes. Lucky for the Mums (me included) the trim is in a strip to sew on. Both my girls are having this first one. The longer tutu is called a romantic tutu, and has the same to be put on it, but loads more sequins!

The costumes on the bottom are the sailors for Tap, the youngest 4 and 5 year old are wearing the skirts and all the other kids in the trousers. For the tapping all 200 pupils will at one point be on the stage at one time!!!!!!!!

The next costume is for the pirates, there is only about 13 pirates and my Nicki is one, I'm not looking forward to making this costume. I only started sewing costumes 2 years ago, when my normal lady stopped and I couldn't afford to get my costumes done, so borrow friends machine and got going. I'm not good, but it get by for a show costume.

And the last one on the right is for the Aqua ballet. The colours on this costume are beautiful, all shimmer blue, silvers and really pretty.

So thats some of what I've been doing and why I'm not doing many cards, today is another day spent on computer sorting more costumes and hopefully I might get a few more children turn up for fittings of leotards, catsuits and tutu etc etc.

Sorry if I haven't been to your blogs lately, I have tried, but I will be back to normal soon I hope lol. Happy crafting xxxx

Ismak challenge 15

2008-04-16T09:18:00.004+01:00

For this card I've used the Ismak challenge 15. Another good sketch, I really enjoyed. I used Magical Moments Debbie's Dragonflies paper for background paper and little squares. Then printed message from computer onto lemon paper. Put ---- lines on with gel pen. Added papermania rub ons to the sqaures and Quickutz bug and flower. Finishing the flower with a pink heart gem. Then adding Happy Birthday stamp. And penny black stamped image(from Kirsty, ebay) painted by me in watercolours.

Well it was a busy day yesterday, like I knew it would be. Costume meeting went on all day, and thankfully only need to sort a couple of patterns now. My job today is to scan Tracey's sketch into the computer then type up instructions for Mums. And also do handy hints for preparing your child for doing a show, from which underwear to wear, and not to put chocolate, blackcurrant etc into pack lunches (not a good idea with costumes)! And so the list goes on, so much to remember so that each and every child has the best time ever.

So I hope you're all going to have a busy day, crafting enjoy and I look forward to visiting your blog to comment. hugs for today x

2008-04-15T07:31:00.002+01:00

This is the card for my sister from my girls. It's to go with the one below. My sister loves to cook, and has her own catering business. She's not into cute stuff, but sure she won't mind a cute Tilda from the girls. I used Papercrafts inspiration papers. Tilda was painted with watercolours, then added quickutz knife and cake slice.
I'm not sure if I'll have time to craft today, as have a meeting for costumes again. Today it's to sort out all the costumes to be made by the Mum's so it will be sorting patterns, etc. Going to be a long day, but we're getting there. We're still waiting for Tutus to come for fittings, cor nearly 3 weeks we've been waiting!!!!!!!.
I hope you all out there, get time in normal boring life (washing, cooking, cleaning, oooo sorry for swearing lol), to craft. And look forward to seeing what you've done hugs for today x

Been Tagged

2008-04-15T07:17:00.002+01:00

I've been tagged by Jo http://fairymadjojo.blogspot.com/ .thank you Jo for those who don't know her blog go have a look, great blog. this tag its the 7 random facts. I've done this one before, so another 7 different facts. Well here goes.....
1. I have a yellow budgie called Jack.
2. I love Emmerdale and Corrie, but hate Eastenders.
3. I stopped wearing trousers a year ago, wanted to be girly
4. I don't drink alcohol
5. I wake at 5ish every morning.
6. My Dad was 54 when I was born
7. My fit, 28inch waisted, runs for a hobby husband, had a pacemaker fitted last year.
So there you go. I won't be passing this on, as everyone I know has done it toooooo. So if anyone hasn't been tagged with this one. Let me know and I'll add you to this one with a link to your blog.

Sister's Birthday card

2008-04-13T10:15:00.004+01:00

Good morning everyone, well yesterday was one of those Mum days. When you spend the whole day running here, there and everywhere. We spent an hour in a specialist dance shop having new pointe shoes fitted for Nicki. Was amazed at how many different ones there were. And she now has a proper pair. She's been going through pointe shoes so fast, but now these ones surport her better so should (I hope) last. Then it was a 40 min drive home, but at least we can buy the next ones over the phone lol. Then it was a trip to the charity shop, to get Mandy some wasgij. She got 4 and was soooo chuffed, then back home to pick in the soaked washing, to do again. Then after a nice tea, sat down to watch Mr and Mrs, oooo did laugh, I love Philip and Fern.

And today, I'm hoping to get loads of card done, have a long list. The one above is for my Sister, and I used Papers - Papercrafts inspirations, Tags and letters - Quickutz, Ribbon - Fabricland, Gems - Syntego

Enjoy your day hugs x

Christmas Cards

2008-04-11T09:50:00.006+01:00

Well thought it was time to get on with some Christmas cards. As you might already know I do cards for each of the children at school. Plus of course I have my own family and friends. So I really need to get on, each year since making cards I've ended up having to get brought cards for the girls to give out. So hopefully this will be the year I'm ahead of myself. I used the same layout for quickness. And then had loads of fun painting the Tilda and edwins. This is the first year I've used stamped images so my cards will be a bit different this year.
The girls and I are really enjoying our time off. Mandy is busy doing puzzle and has finished one 1000 piece already. We enjoy the time at home so much as in term time we're out with dance every night except Wednesday. So time at home to play and craft in lovely. Well wish you all a Happy Christmas lol. Have fun today hugs x Santa's little helper

Pink Christmas

Warm wishes

Magical Christmas

I'm ready where's the snow!

Big Thanks to Jo

2008-04-11T06:56:00.005+01:00

This beautiful card is part of my swap from Jo. I also had some stamped images, papers, ribbons, gems, peel offs etc etc. So many things, thank you so much Jo.

Spring clean

2008-04-10T07:25:00.004+01:00

Well didn't post yesterday. I spent most of the day sorting. I sorted all my craft stuff and was real good and ditched a load of stuff. Most of it from when I first started making cards. And all of it I wouldn't use now. So I now have tidy boxes and drawers. Don't think it will last long. And I did find loads of things that will now be used lol. I was like "ooooooo forgot I had that lol". So much stuff. Hope you all have good days, and maybe I'll start a spring cleaning bug. Go on you know it needs doing and you'll never know what you'll find. lol Did this card for my niece. It's just to send some love. Her sister is expecting a baby, and just wanted her to know that we love her. As it's all Laura at the moment. As we're all sooooooo excited about our first baby this side of the family.
I used Paper - paper craft insiprations
Edwin - painted with watercolours
Then added papermania rub ons and 3 buttons

Well it's here the photo of Vanessa and I, taken on Sunday. You'd never believe how much we laughed taking this photo. The reason we've sitting so tall is to try and hide big me lol. OOOOO we did have a great day, didn't we Vanessa? Hope we don't leave it so long till we see each other again.

Ismak challenge 14 + 13

2008-04-08T11:30:00.005+01:00

Well I've had a go at the new Ismaki challenge and I could resist doing no. 13 again. I'm loving not have the rush and noise in the morning, getting the girls out the house for college and school. And although I'm missing the kids at work, I'm not missing the work lol. The sun is shinning and I'm now off to the town with the girls. Hope you're all having a good day too hugs x This card is for my Niece who's 19. For this card I've used the Ismaki challenge 14. I had to do the card a bit bigger to fit the stamped image in.
Paper - Dovecraft
Penny Black stamp - painted with watercolours
Make-up, bag and flowers - Quickutz
Ribbons - Fabricland.

Really love this layout (Ismaki challenge 13). For this card I used
Paper - Paper craft inspirations
Edwin - painted with watercolours + papermania rub ons
Football + game controll + letters and numbers - Quickutz

This card is for Sean at work, who loves to tease me, he calls me Carol, because I'm sooooo bad at remembering names. And he's tried for the 2 years I've know him to get me into football. He did leave our school, but found life outside difficult so is back, and I think it's because he missed our dinners lol.

Big Thanks to Vanessa and family

2008-04-07T12:13:00.005+01:00

Well it's the first day of the end of winter term holiday, and it's been great to do a more detailed card. And thanks to a lovely day with Vanessa and family yesterday, when I also pick up loads of new stamped images. I had the tree and ladybird to add to my card. There will be a photo of Vanessa and me later, but have to wait for my daughter to get up and sort out my memory card. There would of been a photo on Vanessa's site, but after ages of us posing and trying to hide my fat, Vanessa didn't have a memory card in her camera lol. But it was worth the laugh, wasn't it Vanessa? Have a great day everyone hugs x

This card is for my niece's first wedding anniversary. I used Romani paper in the blue and green, Tilda and Edwin etc are painted with watercolours. Then I added clouds and the flowers, and peel off sticker. I even finished the tree with their initals.

Snow again!

2008-04-06T09:44:00.000+01:00

Its stopped!

So were off to see Vanessa (Nessy's Notes) Woo!

snow

2008-04-06T09:30:00.003+01:00

Well good morning all, I'm gutted, was meant to be going to see Vanessa (nessy's notes) today. And it's snowing. We thought we'd give it a go, but got in the car and on the motorway we couldn't see a thing. So it was home again. Girls chuffed and are outside building a snowman and throwing snowballs at their Dad. So a special hello to Vanessa and boo hoo. Have a fun day in the snow everyone x

2 cards for work, and 1 for Jo

2008-04-03T14:57:00.008+01:00

Good afternoon all, well I've only one more day until end of term, and I can't wait. I'm hoping my holiday will be filled with crafting. I'm hoping to do some challenges. And get on top of birthdays in the month ahead. But at the moment the day I'm looking forward to the most is going to see Vanessa (Nessy notes). We became friends through Do crafts site and now she is one of my bestest friends. I have such good friends, including my bestest friend Kim, who I'm hoping to get together with in the holidays to get photos sorted for the scrapbook I'm going to make her. Like us girls know there nothing like a good friend, to share the happy and sad time with in your life and I'd be lost without mine. And it's lovely that through this blog I getting to know so many new friends, to you all thanks for visiting my blog hugs x For this card I used - Dovecraft Kids
Tilda painted with watercolours
Cake and Tag - Papermania rub ons

For this card I used Paper - Dovecraft
Edwin and Bench painted with watercolours
Tag and Dots on jumper - papermania rub on

For this card I used Paper - Magical moments - ring around the rosie
- Plain pink paper, with computer print
Ballerina painted with watercolours, with added glitter on the wings.
Then added the bows to finish

Ismak challenge 13

2008-04-02T14:09:00.003+01:00

Loved doing this challenge. Even got the 3 flowers and 5 or more words on.

I used Papers - Bo-peek press lemondrop, Basicgrey Dragonfly and Caravan. Painted Tilda with watercolours and glitter glue on the wings, then added punched out flowers and mini gems on the centre. Think there might be some more of this sketch.

OOO news on bedroom, they lost a day, shhhhhh don't tell my husband, he said they had to go back to the beginning, but I thought that was mean. But Mandy cleared the mess in half an hour, so I only took 1 day off. Truth is I think I'm looking forward to getting a kitten too.

Hope you're all enjoying your day hugs x

Black and white

2008-03-31T14:12:00.002+01:00

This card was an order from work. A card for someone who loves wearing black. You can't see from scaned picture but the bag, headdress, bottom of the shawl and bracklets are glitter, and on the bottom of the dress and the stripes in the shawl have glitter glue on. I'm hoping she'll like it. Off to do quick birthday card for my nephew. Card - Papermania
Paper - Magical moments, ring around the rosie, mono coloured
Stamped image - watercolour paints, glitter glue on bottom of dress and shawl, black glitter on bag and headdress, silver gliter headdress and bracklets.
Finishing bits - Mini black brads, peel off sticer, black ribbon.

Nicki's 15000 hit blog candy!

2008-03-31T06:44:00.004+01:00

Nikki is offering some fab blog candy to celebrate 15,000 hits on her blog. Why not pop across and have a http://nikkiscardsandnews.blogspot.com/2008/03/15000-hits-blog-candy.html
I'll be back later after the maddness of Monday family life, hopefully with some cards, or should I say 1 card. Have a good day every one x
ps anyone who's interested the girls room has been spotless for a week now lol

2008-03-30T21:02:00.001+01:00

Busy few days!

2008-03-30T08:24:00.006+01:00

Well these 3 cards were done real quick, My Nicki came home from dance and said "Mum can you do me 3 thank you cards for tomorrow". This was 8pm, but she wanted to thank the 3 girls who performed her A-level choreography exams piece for her. She's been teaching them the dance for a month now and they have work so hard for her. The exam was Friday and although Nicki wasn't allowed in while the girls performed her dance she thinks it went well.
I did 3 the same but different, choosing the same papers but in the girls favourite colours. I was told they were chuffed. The papers I think are all Papermania, and the images are all painted with watercolours. Which is your favourite lol. I'm not sure I keep changing my mind. Have a brill day and I'm off to start looking at some of your sites hugs xx

Well it's been a hectic few days. I've been so busy. I'm wadrobe mistress for my girls dance show, and there are over 200 kids. And at the moment I'm trying to get sizes for every child. Every child needs at least one leotard. But most need a leotard and a catsuit, and each one needs trying on!!!!!! But the likes of my Nicki needs to try on 1 leotard, 1 catsuit, one classic tutu and one skirt tutu, plus other bits and bobs. So I'm very sorry if I'm a bit busy and don't get around to visiting you as much as I'd like, but until July 6th I'm going to have to miss some days. But promise I'll make it up to you all in the summer holidays. hugs xx

Bright Anniversary

2008-03-27T06:48:00.003Z

Thought I'd do a bright card for our friends anniversary, they are such sunny people. For this card I used-

Card - Papermania

Buttons - Quickutz die

Pennyblack stamp painted with watercolours.

Well I'm hoping for a better day today. I was happily making cards before going to work yesterday, when my Quickutz Revolution stopped working. Rang the shop where I got it ok bring it back and we'll see. It's now gone back to where they got it from so fingers crossed it won't take long to fix it. So boo hoo no machine. Then just as I was leaving for work, that dreaded phone call from the school. Had to take our Mandy to the hospital, turns out she badly sprained her ankle. 2 weeks no dance, not good as sorting out show work lol. She's gutted! But at least it's not broken. So I missed work and spent a lovely few hours at hospital. And today I'll have to explain to the kids at school where I was, I'll be asked at least 10 times just from Sean, as he will need me to repeat it, so he knows. That's why I don't have time off, it upset them too much.

Well I'm hoping for a brill day, I'm off to church this afternoon after work to listen to Mandy singing, she got a solo so should be good, but wrap up warm it's cold in the big church. I hope you all have a good day too and get loads of cards done. hugs xx

You've made my day award

2008-03-26T18:51:00.004Z

I got this cute little award from Noleen http://noodlesoflove.blogspot.com/ Thank you Noleen, I'm as pleased as punch, it's a little award you give to people whose blogs you love to read. I read so many blogs on here so I'm going to pass it on to only 3 people who's cards always make me think wow!
I give the "You Make My Day Award" to:
Jo, http://fairymadjojo.blogspot.com/ who's fast becoming a new friend, Andrea, http://andreabrownjohn.blogspot.com/ who's brill at leaving comments even when she has so many people leave comments on her fab work
and finally to Vanessa http://www.nessysnotes.blogspot.com/ who is my bestest crafting friend and who got me started on this blog thing lol. Your the best and wish we lived closer. big hugs xx ps would of like to give the award to everyone, but sometime you have to choose.

Birthday card for 2 children at work

2008-03-25T15:38:00.006Z

Well back to work for me today, and I did miss the kids. They were all few of smiles and trying to tell us how many eggs they had. But they weren't that full as they all ate their dinners.
At home things are going well with the tidy bedroom, but we've had to talk about when to get a kitten. Think I've talked Mandy in to waiting until the summer holidays. So then we will have more time with it. Plus the show is coming up in July and it won't be long until I have 100's of leotards and tutu being delievered ready to give out to the Mum's. So new kitten and expensive tutu's don't work, phew got out of that for the moment lol. Hope you've all had a good day happy crafting xx

This card is bright as Ellie doesn't see so well, and the butterflies are hinged in the middle so the wings raise, this is so Ellie can feel them. This was an Ismaki challenge. I used
Red card - Papermania
Paper - Magical moments- ring around the rosie
Wording - Quickutz Birthday shortkutz and Lemonade Alphabet
Penny Black stamp painted with watercolours and glitter glue on the butterflies
Butterflies - Quickutz bugs die

This was done for one of the children at work. For this card I used

Paper - Colorbok book

Wording - Quickutz and computer printed

Stamped image painted with watercolours

Pink Birthday

2008-03-24T08:16:00.003Z

Good morning all, and I'm all confussed today. It's Monday and my lot are all still in bed. I nearly forgot to place my shopping order. Would of been waiting for it Wednesday lol. So now shopping is done and I'm hoping for a peaceful day. Mandy wants to go out and buy another puzzle. Steve's wants to go for a run, and I expect and hope we'll have our Natalie (Nicki's best friend and rock) round. We've been a bit silly and made a promise that I have a feeling we might have to keep. Steve has told the girls if they keep there bedroom tidy for 1 month, they can have a kitten. OOOOO it looks like a palace. Normaly you can't see the floor and I mean can't see the floor. Normaly clothes, dance bags, tap shoes, pointe shoes etc etc etc on it. But it's sparkling like a new pin. If this keeps up it will be worth a kitten lol. Well now for the card. I've done this for Natalie to give to another friend. She told me really pink and really girly, so this in it!

I used Ismaki Challenge 5 for the layout

Papers - All old papermania

Flower - Quickutz daisy and brad

Wording - Quickutz lemonade alphabet

Party Tilda painted with watercolour paints then pink glitter added to her wings and gold glitter to the stars.

I hope she likes it. Have a real good extra day off, enjoy. Only 9 school days left before half term for some of us. hugs xx

I've been tagged

2008-03-23T16:15:00.003Z

I've been tagged
I've been tagged by Noleen http://noodlesoflove.blogspot.com/ The rules of the game are:. Link to the person who tagged you and post the rules on your blog. Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog, we all want to know them. Tag 7 people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs. Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving them a comment on their blogs.

1. From the age of 9 I was brought up by my wonderful 64 year old Dad, best years of my life.

2. Spent 51 1/2 hours in labour with my second and last child!!!!!!!!

3. When I was about 11, my Dad brought me a handknitted striped polo neck jumper. Which had a bright red collar and ribs. I hated it, but wore it cos Dad loved it.

4. I'm tonedeaf (really I've had tests) and don't know my left from right. Which wasn't really any good when I tried tap dancing lessons at 36 ha ha

5. I used to hate my husband when we were 14/15 and he dated my best mate. After 2 years of not seeing each other we got engaged when I was 17, married at 19, first child at 23, second at 30. And still going strong.

6. I love singing, (but remember I'm tonedeaf) and I sing along to everything, even if I don't know the words I just make them up lol. OOOOO and love people in cars watching me singing along to the radio. They always laugh!

7. The reason my blog is called Jus Cos Cards is it was something my darling Dad always said to me. It means Jus cos I Love you. So it's in memory of Jack Slack!

Sorry could only tag 6 people, haven't been round long enough for more people to know me saddo lol. I'm tagging -
Vanessa - http://noodlesoflove.blogspot.com/, Andrea http://andreabrownjohn.blogspot.com/,
Deb http://countrylovincardmaker.blogspot.com/, Jo http://fairymadjojo.blogspot.com/, Natalie http://nattykcards.blogspot.com/ and Anita http://anitacrafts.blogspot.com/
have fun Vicki May x

Happy Easter Sunday

2008-03-23T06:25:00.004Z

Good day to you all and I hope you are having a wonderful Easter. The easter bunny has been to our house already although I don't except the girls will be up until this afternoon to see what he's brought. And I don't expect much of my coconut chicken will be eaten for tea lol. While my husbands goes for his run today I'm hoping to do another card or maybe 2 have a long long list to do, but might cheat and use the same layout. The card below is for someone in the family who's just found out they are expecting. It's only early days, but we're all sooooo excited. This is a Ismaki Challenge 10, it's not as to the sketch as it should be. I'm not sure if that's allowed but I did enjoy doing it.
I used Papers- Princess words (Disney)
Boys words
Dots (papermania)
Card- Papermill
Ribbons- Fabricland
Letters and Nappy Pins- Quickutz
Party Edwin- painted with watercolour paints, then with added glitter glue on his wings and normal glitter on the stars.

This is my little one Mandy. Who has just finished doing this 1000 piece Dr Who puzzle, she loves Dr Who and this puzzle is now going on her bedroom wall next to her Dr Who collection. I think well done princess, it's taken you weeks to do, but you've done it!

I've won an award

2008-03-22T10:58:00.007Z

I received this award from Noleen http://noodlesoflove.blogspot.com/ thanks so much Noleen. The "Arte Y Pico" (Art and More) award is given to bloggers who share their art and creativity making their contribution to the blogging world.
The rules!
1) You have to pick 5 blogs that you consider deserve this award for their creativity, design, interesting material, and also contributes to the blogging community, no matter what their language.
2)Each award has to have the name of the author plus a link to his or her blog to be visited by everyone.
3)Each award winner has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the award itself.
4)Award-winner and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of "Arte Y Pico"blog, so everyone will know the origin of the award.
5) To show these rules.
Now its my turn to give this award and its really hard as i don’t know who to pick. I haven’t been around long in the blogging world so haven’t looked at many blogs. And I although I wanted to give an award to everyone on my list, most have the award already. But I have chosen Vanessa - http://www.nessysnotes.blogspot.com/ Andrea - http://andreabrownjohn.blogspot.com/ Deb - http://countrylovincardmaker.blogspot.com/ Flossie - http://flofollies.blogspot.com/ and Beatrix http://megastamper.blogspot.com/
Luv and hugs Vicki May xx

Kelly and Sean's wedding

2008-03-22T10:07:00.006Z

Some of the invites

Place names

Favour Tags

Hello all, well here we are on Easter Saturday. And I'm hoping to have a day creating. I didn't get chance yesterday as I had to finish some place names and tags for favour bags. So I thought you might like to see. This is the 4th Wedding I've done now. I love doing them, but it's a shame you can't choose what they have lol. For Kelly and Sean's wedding I did over 100 invites, 60 place names and 60 tags, for the favour bags. The wine glasses, hearts, horseshoes and tags were cut out on my Quickutz Revolution. And the wording was printed from my computer. The wine colour card with wording on was on raised pads.

Well I hope you all have a good day and like me get some cards done. I'm going to have another go at a ismaki challenge, so fingers crossed. Thanks for visting me today take care xx

Happy Easter

2008-03-21T07:17:00.006Z

Well a very Happy Good Friday. I hope you're all going to have a good day. I'm hoping to spend time crafting. I have an important card to do for someone in the family who just found out they are having a baby. I'm very excited as it's the first one my side of the family so will get to see the baby loads. Might even get to babysit lol.

I had a lovely day yesterday visiting another school, and then was up very late (1am) at a costume meeting for a show my girls are doing. Going to be busy making costumes soon, so will need to get as much card making in as possible. Also have loads of costumes lists to type and print up for the Mums.

The card above is the one and only Easter card I made for Vanessa. I'm hoping it has arrived at hers now. I'm afraid I haven't got any details on the stuff I used as it was made ages ago, pre blog. I'm now very sad and have a special book at my side and write down as I'm crafting. Again it's another glitter paper and I finished the flowers with glitter too.

So to you all I hope you have a fab day and if like me you're having fish and chips and hot cross buns, for tea enjoy lol xx

Happy Birthday

2008-03-21T07:11:00.004Z

Well I enjoyed this one, had more time to fiddle lol. Made it for my sister in law. The picture doesn't show up that the paper is glitter paper.

I used:-

Blue and red card - Papermania

Flower paper - DCWV Star Posies

Stamped image - painted with watercolour paints

Hearts - Quickutz and finished with cream ribbon.

Magical Birthday

2008-03-20T06:49:00.004Z

Well funny old day yesterday. Of course Nicki did really well and enjoyed every minute at Uni. Now it put it to the back of our minds until the letter drops on the mat and we see if she's been offered a place.

Did this card for a little boy at work yesterday. I'm afraid I don't have the details of the papers I used as I've had them for ages. But I painted the Edwin, then added glitter glue to his robes which made them look sparkley, which doesn't really show up on the picture. Then I put silver glitter on the stars on his hat and gold glitter on his wand. Then just added a few stars on the background. A simple card, but he loved it.

Well I'm off to work in an infants school today, so that will be different. I'm hoping to get some cards done for birthday at my school, when I get back on Tuesday.

Hope you all have a good day. And Thanks for looking at my blog. xx

The best easter card

2008-03-19T16:03:00.004Z

Well what can I say, I can't compete with this card. This was given to me from starfish class. They are very good to us in the kitchen. I think they know who to butter up lol. We also got eggs, how lucky am I. Told you I had the best job. The other picture is the writting inside the card. This is how a lot of our children communicate. So I'm a happy bunny this afternoon, hope you're having a good day too xx

No cards yet?

2008-03-19T06:54:00.003Z

Hello all, Well it's a funny old day for me. I have what my husband calls my worry belly on. My Nicola is off to Uni today for an interview and audtion. I can't believe it, never thought I'd have a child that would go to Uni. I went to college, but only to do "O" levels, do you remember them lol. And to be honest I was never that clever. I have huge butterflies, and I'm feeling sick. Will she get there ok, will she like it, will her interview go ok. Will her dance go ok, and on and on it goes. OOOO it's worse than being there yourself. So I will be on tender hooks all day, waiting for the texts to come, saying I'm here, I enjoying it etc.

It will also be a funny old day at work. As you might know I work in a special needs school. And because it's a short week the children will be out of routine, so that will mean a noisy time ahead, as they get stressed, excited and loud bless them.

So no cards as yet today, just thought I'd put on a poster I made up for my wallpaper on the computer. It's such a true saying, so if you have the chance today give one of your friends a hug, just because most of us couldn't make it without our friends. And I'm sending you all a big smile and hug, enjoy your day xx

Ismak challenge

2008-03-18T17:49:00.005Z

Well good afternoon, I thought I'd have a go at a challenge. Didn't add the curly bit in the corner, but other than that it's the same . I used for the background paper Romani Harlow (Basic grey). The dot paper in Fleur de lys blue metallic (Papermania). The blue card is from The Paper Mill. Behind Edwin in Blue vintage foil (Papermania DS) Then the Edwin was one stamped by Vanessa, and then painted by me with Reeves watercolours, then finish off with Papermania rub on transfer on his t-shirt and Ian's name on the bottom. This was made for one of the boys at school, I enjoyed doing the challenge think I shall have to some more. Thanks for looking enjoy the rest of the day xxxx

A little something to keep me going

2008-03-18T06:19:00.002Z

Good morning everyone, and especially my bestest friend Vanessa. I came dashing home from work yesterday hoping to see comments on my blog. But didn't even get to the computer. There on the mat a big envelope with all these stamped images. I was so pleased. There's enough to keep me going for ages. Thank you soooooooo much Vanessa, don't know what I'd do without you. I'm going to have sooo much fun painting and making cards with all these.

I'm hoping to get a couple of cards done today. Need to get Ian's and Daddy's (little boy's name) done for school as children have day off on Thursday too. And their birthdays are over the long weekend.

I did get on the computer last night and bet you can all remember how you felt when you saw your first comments, or does it feel like that all the time? I was so excited, even if one was from my daughter, who I'd asked to put on comment in case no-one looked lol. How sad am I. Well have a great day and happy crafting everyone. xx

Birthday card for Simon

2008-03-17T14:51:00.004Z

Two posts in one day, think I'm on a roll . I've done this card for a good friend. I've done in in Pompey (our local fc) blues. Don't think he'll notice I done it with his team in mind, but if I'd done it in Southampton Colours he would have been miffed lol. The background paper is Sweet Summer Stitched (Bo-bunny press). The I've used Papermania card in light blue, turquoise, black and white. I put Papermania buttons on Ribbon that I got off the shoulder hang ups from my daughter's new dress. I'm never a one to waste a thing ha ha. I did the Happy Birthday background paper on the computer and printed it off. Then added saying with Quickutz Lemonade alphabet and a Quickutz football. Then it was a quick cut of matching paper for the envelope and that's that.

Off to do somemore cards. And to take a picture of all the stamped images that Vanessa sent me. I'll post the picture tomorrow, take care everyone, have a good rest of the day bye xx

One I made earier

2008-03-17T06:47:00.000Z

Well good morning, here goes for my daily blog. I'm afraid I didn't get chance to make any cards yesterday. Think I used all my time trying to get blog up and running. But I made this card on Saturday, so hopefully that's ok. I made it for my sister. Now I have to tell you what I used Papermania Pink Flush and the other paper is in the same range, but sorry don't know the name. I printed off the wording and mounted them on pink card. The magnolia stamped imaged is one I brought off ebay (I can't stamp for toffee, so buy my images). Which I painted myself. Then to finish it off I just rounded off the corners. I did a matching envelope.

Today I have a list of cards to get on with so hopefully after doing my weekly shop online I will be able to start before going to work, then home to finish. Have a brill day everyone, hope you all get time to craft. xx

hello

2008-03-16T12:10:00.001Z

Well I'm here at last. Hello to everyone and thank you for visiting me. This is my second go at starting a blog, so I'm hoping this time it will work. I will try and add to my blog daily and also look forward to visiting some of you. Of course I will continue to add comments to my bestest crafting friend Vanessa's (Nessy's notes) blog. Because she's the reason for me starting my own blog. Thanks Vanessa. So bye for now, and keep visiting to see some more of my cards

Vicki May