Diane's Everyday Moments

Project Life

2012-01-29T09:52:00.002+11:00

More Project Life photos...which will be printed this week and the album on the way :)

Disneys Californian Adventure Park

My 2 little Rock Stars ... hair courtesy of Studio 365 @ Downtown Disney.

Coronado Beach San Diego

A quiet moment at Seaport Village San Diego

Wind Farms near Palm Springs

Toasting marshmallows at palm Springs

Sunset at Santa Monica Boulevard.

Project Life 2012

2012-01-28T10:11:00.000+11:00

I decided to use the Project Life kit in 2010 as a place to house my Photo-A-Day images. By the end of the year I loved the concept. It was a simple and fun way to combine my two hobbies/passions/obsessions...memory keeping and photography.

I planned to do it again in 2011 but was unable to get my hands on the kit...a bit frustrating for us Aussies when it comes to getting our hands on scrapping supplies at a decent price or at all.

So when Becky released the 2012 kits I pre-ordered it straight away and was eager to start again.
BUT I never expected the explosion of interest in Project Life. Everywhere you go in Blog Land people have jumped on the PL train. There are sooooo many varying styles and ways to use the kit. I started checking them all out but found it all a little overwhelming (and sometimes over embellished) something I have tried to avoid since becoming a devotee of CZ and Clean and Simple.

So I have found a few people whose PL albums inspire me to be simple but also I tiny bit creative/crafty (just enough to satisfy the 80's glitter girl in me) and I will avoid being distracted by everything else...I hope :)

Week 1 Photos

Santa Cruz

The Big Sir...yes there where witches hats to warn you not

to go to close to the edge and the 100 feet drop!!!!

LIKE THE BLOODY WITCHES HATS WOULD HELP AN OUT OF CONTROL CAR!!!!

California 101 Highway

Hollywood Boulevard

Universal Studios

Disneys Californian Adventure Park

Breakfast with the Characters.

Day 8

2012-01-13T18:02:00.000+11:00

Christmas Eve/Dani's Birthday

Today the plan was to go dog sledding but things got mixed up so we ended up missing out.

So the little girls went bowling with their Dad...

and Dani and I went shopping. Dani forgot her jacket!!

Santa left the castle for his journey...

And we all celebrated Dani's 20th birthday.

2012 creative plans...

2012-01-12T17:41:00.000+11:00

Sorry Mum...will get back to the holiday snaps soon. Here's one for you till then xx

On the scrapping/memory keeping my plans for 2012 are:

One Little Word ... this year I have chosen 'change'. I think its time to change the way I do some things!

Project Life ... I loved my 2010 album and am ready to go again for this year with some help and inspiration from Ali, Becky and Cathy.

Simple Aussie Girls ... I will continue to share my memory keeping here. And I WILL get more pages done and get sorted with all my photos.

Shoot From The Heart ... I will join Karen again some time this year for class as a returning student (armed with lots of questions).

And a few other things I am liking right now...

This Family Interview.

Deb Duty has one great tips and ideas.

Oh and I will endeavour to record this holiday in some way, shape or form. Just what I can't decide and am open to all tips, ideas and suggestions :)

Day 7

2012-01-08T16:53:00.000+11:00

Lake Louise to Banff

Today was a 2 hour bus ride to Banff.

We saw a group of make deer and I just managed this shot before Maddi threw up on the bus...

chuck no 1 !

We arrived in Banff. It was stunning and the first stop was the candy store :)

The town really is picture perfect.

The Banff Castle.

A sign of things to come.

We took a gondola ride to the peak of the mountains...amazing!

The snow was like foam.

And we managed to get another family photo.

And a final stop before we arrived at the castle...the local beach. Well it is in summer!!

Day 6

2012-01-07T03:08:00.002+11:00

Lake Louise

Today we hired some ice skates and hit the ice...in more ways than 1. After lunch we headed out to the snow for some fun.

Liv was first on the ice...holding tight to her Dad.

Maddi and I did a lap. I used to be able to ice skate 30 years ago. I was very wobbly but I managed to get around and help Maddi. Hubby took this photo...good one babe!

The girls on ice looking good. Just after this I got a bit too confident. I was skating on my own and looked up to find Dani, didn't watch what I was doing and crack...I hit the ice...well my head hit the ice. OUCH!!! That was the end of my ice skating. It really hurt!!

The view from our room. We skated on the frozen ice.

Dani just before ...

she was attacked!!

Cute xx

Maddi and Livvy took to the slopes in a taboggan.

Dani and Livvy warmed themselves in front of the fire.

And the girls indulged in some Canadian tradition.

A s'more (sometimes spelled smore) is a traditional nighttime campfire treat popular in the US and Canada consisting of a roasted marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two pieces of graham cracker.

Day 5

2012-01-05T17:35:00.000+11:00

Time is flying and I am days behind in my sharing. We are now in Hollywood but will keep my journalling in order to help me when it comes time to documenting this holiday...and for you Mum and Dad! xx

Today we drove along the Icefields Park way from Jasper to Lake Louise. I would have to say it is the most spectacular thing I have ever seen in my life. We where blessed with perfect weather and I loved every minute of it.

The girls helped the tour guide prepare the coach for our journey.

and made time for some fun photo's before we left.

STUNNING!!!!

BREATH TAKING!!!

And even a family shot.

It had snowed the night before so the ploughs where out clearing the road.

And Livvy made the most of the freshly fallen snow.

Tony and Liv even made the first footprints in the snow on one stop.

We saw frozen waterfalls...

and yep crazy people climbing them!

We arrived at Chateau Lake Louise. It too was stunning!!!

And we went on a ride but it was freezing!!

Day 5 Observations.

I think this is the most beautiful place I have eve seen. It is all I imagined and more.

Canadians really are wonderful people.

The cold isn't really that bad :)

Day 4

2012-01-01T19:20:00.002+11:00

Jasper

Today we headed out for some Snow Shoeing.

We all 'shoed' up then...

headed out cross a frozen lake. Yep thats Liv up the front Grandad!

A family photo with 1 missing smile!

After a few snow ball fights we headed back...

but stopped for the odd photo opportunity.

Dani tried to add to the shot by shaking the snow from the tree :)

Back across the lake (and off came the girls snow shoes so they could run!)

Maddi and Mummy.

And a final smile...ops!!!

We walked for about an hour, the girls did pretty well.

Day 3

2011-12-31T18:16:00.000+11:00

Jasper

Today we continued our train ride through the Rocky Mountains to Jasper. As we ventured further into the mountains the snow became thicker. It was one of the most amazing things I have ever done.

We saw frozen waterfalls...

watched the snow getting heavier from the glass top carriage...

and simply stared at the amazing scenes before our eyes. It was even more than I had imagined and hard to believe...it was like I was in a postcard!

We arrived at Jasper and so the fun began. Livvy's first snow ball!

And Maddi kept a watchful eye.

And Dani smiled for me :)

We arrived at the Fairmont Jasper Lodge. It was stunning. Fairy lights everywhere!!

Our rooms had fireplaces and where toasty warm...

and the girls room had an added extra :)

Day 2 Observations.

AMAZING!!!

The sun disappears around 5pm during winter in The Rockies.

It was dark when we arrived...can't wait till morning.

Canadians are warm and friendly :)

Todays train trip was the most spectacular thing I have ever seen.

Still trying work out the taxes and tipping.

Day 2

2011-12-29T19:03:00.001+11:00

Vancouver to Jasper

Today we slept in and almost missed breakfast, did some shopping and went to the Christmas markets. In the evening we boarded the train for an overnight trip to Jasper.

I struggled with the light and movement here but most importantly the girls had fun :)

It is dark early in Vancouver in Winter. The street lights look amazing.

Breakfast on the train and Livvy's very first glimpse at snow :)

Day 2 Observations.

It's not easy to find simple fresh cafe food when you are not a local.

The showers are a challenge...one tap for hot or cold and bath or shower. You have to pull up a little lever to switch from bath to shower??

The girls saw up close and touched snow for the first time today.

Sleeping on a train is easier than I thought.

Canadian money is a challenge...sooooo many coins!!!

Merry Christmas...

2011-12-29T05:01:00.003+11:00

I know I'm late but I have been busy enjoying my holiday. I have been panning to pop in and post some words and pictures of our travels. We are having an amazing time. And I am having a ball with my camera.

Day 1 Vancouver.

We explored the city...

and the Christmas Tree hunt began.

We joined the Scenic Tour and discovered there would be more food than we could imagine.

(Image by my little apprentice Maddi)

Observations Day 1.

I knew we drove on opposite sides of the road. I didn't know we walked on opposite sides too. I was not a popular Aussie for a while ops!

Vancouver is a very clean city.

The girls saw snow in the distance for the first time.

Shopkeepers wear T-Shirts. I struggled being all rugged up for outside then walking into toasty warm shops ( but a soldiered on ).

Australians have a Pub on every corner...Canadians have a Starbucks or Tim Horton's.

Liv fell asleep at the dinner table ... thats a first.

I like Canada :)

2011-12-12T12:07:00.001+11:00

Christmas in Australia...

...gotta love it!!!

Erin Cobb...

2011-12-06T15:07:00.001+11:00

showed me how to make this ...

look like this...

with this!!

Its only subtle but it looks so much better!

Day 4 ...

2011-12-05T22:45:00.001+11:00

We made reindeer biscuits...

and this one...made us laugh!!!

Day 3 ...

2011-12-04T22:32:00.001+11:00

The girls decorated the tree and I practiced using available light :) Thank you Karen Russell !!!!!

And popped them into one of Ali's templates ...

just need to add it to my journaling page and Day 3 is done :)

Loving Daily december this year !!

DD Photos Day 1 & 2

2011-12-03T10:15:00.001+11:00

So far so good!

Title page.

I will do the whole of December. We have lots of things happening :)

Day 1

I will print this out and stick it on some pattern paper.

Day 2

Yes...she is back home :)

Perfect timing...a perfect December!!

The most fabulous time of the year...

2011-12-02T11:04:00.001+11:00

I am, again going to attempt a Daily December. I have started the last 2 years but not made it very far. I will try again. I will not worry about co-ordinating everything to much. I will use the "stuff"I have to make hybrid pages.

I am also going to use the prompts from Paper Coterie. I am lucky enough to have a code to create a free book here too so will be using my holiday pictures for it :)

It all starts today for us!! Looking forward to the first big event of December!!

Clean Colour

2011-11-27T21:17:00.001+11:00

I have finished Karens class. I will fill you in soon but in a word...AWESOME!!!
As a bonus Erin Cobb will be visiting the forum next week to chat with us about her editing process, Clean Colour . I have purchased it and studying her work flow at the moment.

Here is one of my first attempts...

SOOC.

My edit.

I am pretty happy with my first attempt.

Right now I am happy to be learning more about photography so I cam decided what does and doesn't work for me based on my own knowledge :)

Simple Things...

2011-11-13T23:24:00.001+11:00

Yesterday I took the kids for a bike ride with my camera flung over my shoulder.

I was hoping to get a few good photos and not fall off.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that most of them where in focus.

Seems I am learning lots thanks to Karen Russell and I am capturing the simple things

with correctly exposed photos :)

Inspired by...

2011-11-12T09:08:00.001+11:00

Yesterday I was lazily sitting with my laptop looking over Photographers Workshop notes (which is awesome and I will fill you in on it soon) and I saw this lady on The Circle. I liked what she had to say about life ...

"Success is all about fine tuning… fine tuning the ordinary to achieve the extraordinary in life (and work). It’s not about being ‘perfect’, nor is it about being labelled as ‘broken’ and trying to implement unsustainable life overhauls."

She talked about rather than having yearly 'goals' we should have a yearly 'theme'. She suggested with goals there is a need to achieve them and if we don't we inevitably fail. And no-one likes to fail. So rather setting a theme for the year and finding ways to incorporate it into your lives. I love the idea. Reminds me a lot too of Ali Edwards "One Little Word".

One of her other ideas I love is ... Champagne Friday!!!

"A weekly tradition where we pop the cork on the week that was, celebrate what worked, reflect on what didn’t, and look forward to a sparkling new week of possibility."

So here's to Champagne Friday ... a tradition I think I will take on!!

What worked...

What didn't...

And a new week ...

12 years ago I lost a good friend and awesome work college to cancer. I still have her mobile number in my phone. I can't bring myself to delete it. When I lost Mark I looked to heaven and asked Linzi to watch over him for me till I was with him again. Last night I got an email from her daughter. It bought tears to my eyes ( I am typing this through more tears). She is well and happy and is now a teacher like her mother. When we lost Linz I kept some of her teaching resources to have her with my always in my classrooms. This week I will send some of them to her daughter. I know she would love that.

I know it's now Saturday...but what would you celebrate from last week and what are looking forward to next week?

2011-11-07T13:42:00.003+11:00

I am back from a quick trip to take the little girls to visit there big sister...

...smile, hugs and tears all round!

Depth Of Field...

2011-10-23T23:14:00.000+11:00

Maddy was waiting in the car to go to ballet, I thought it was a good chance to work on Depth of Field

and a perfect Simple Moment that need to be captured.

this girl either is focused on her iPod or

has her head in a book.

AND I took this on manual...YIPEE!!!

I am loving Karen's class BUT there is lots to take in so thanks for all the comments here and SORRY I have been a slack blog visitor while I have been in class.

xxx

Connections...

2011-10-18T11:52:00.000+11:00

One of the things I love most about my camera is its ability to capture the connections between my kids. It allows me to capture moments from each of their lives and look back at the shared moments. The little things that each of them did individually but the things that connect them as one family. And the thinngs that connect three sisters to a brother who watches over them from heaven.

Just this week my youngest embarked on her latest adventures. She started 2 new sporting activities. Ones that all 4 of my children have enjoyed or participated in over the years. And thanks to my cameras I have all their first memories captured.

Sunday saw Olivia's first day at nippers...but before her first day there was ...

Nipper Dani...old film camera days :(

Nipper Mark...thats him in colour...note the cap colour!!! In Nippers each age group gets a specific hat colour, when they kids reach 14 the colour goes to the new 6 year olds the following year.

Nipper Maddy with Dani helping out. Mad's only lasted a few weeks, wasn't so keen on the sand. Um...well there is a lot of sand sweetheart, maybe we will stick to dancing. God love her xx

And finally...

Nipper Livvy ... again note the cap colour...perfect!!!
I love it when memories of the past become part of our today :) Mark would have been soooo happy to see Liv in his colours. They are so so alike it is amazing :)

Simple things...

2011-10-16T16:47:00.002+11:00

My 8 year old just walked in with this!

Thank you precious girl :)

Freezing Motion vs. Implying Motion

2011-10-08T08:53:00.000+11:00

So this weeks assignment is all about motion. And I have struggled with it. The kids have not been at all co-operative, even though there was a Beanie Kid on offer.

I did get these though...

I think I froze motion here...

the motion of a 6 year old who went swimming "fully clothed" ...

and wondered if maybe it wasn't such a good idea!!

And as far as implied motion goes...I clearly still need to practice...

and will have to ask where my focus point should be???

Simple Things

2011-10-03T21:30:00.001+11:00

I am join in the Simple Things Link Party !!!!

I love how I am 'simply' not needed anymore for computer time :)

Oh and by the way ... its a double celebration.

This is my first ever photo taken on the elusive 'M' on my camera.

Woohoo...thanks Karen Russell !!!

Also I have started back on my photo-a-day and am posting them on my photo-a-day blog to keep up to date so I will ready to roll when my Project Life kit arrives :)

portraits that tell a story...

2011-09-23T11:31:00.002+10:00

This week in class Karen spoke about viewpoints and candid v's portraits. I love both and I love portraits that are more than just a posed moment but have a story behind them.

I snapped this yesterday morning. Maddy did her own hair for school :) This portrait tells the story of a little girl who is maturing before my eyes. She is discovering she CAN do things for herself and thats it's time for me to give her more responsibility...she can handle it. But can I handle letting go of the reins just a bit?

fill the frame with the story...

2011-09-21T22:27:00.000+10:00

This week Karen has emphasised the importance of filling the frame with the story.

This Story.
Maddy suddenly seems to be growing up fast. She is becoming more independent and more helping. She likes to make me a cup of coffee. She is even helping her little sister more...

Snapshots...

2011-09-13T13:14:00.003+10:00

I am really excited to have started my first on-line photography course. I have admired Karen's photos for years and decided the time was right to join her class.

Our first assignment is to find your favourite emotionally perfect photo... a simple one to start with.

Man it is so not simple to narrow it down to just one...

HELP!!!

I could fail my first assignment because I am a terrible decision maker...sigh!

I found these in just a few months of the years and years of photos I have!

Daddy and his little girls...

Christmas morning...

Fishing lessons with Grandad...

Proof of summer...

Sisters...

Sigh...but man I love my camera :)

an oldie...

2011-09-12T12:57:00.001+10:00

...come see a new version of this page over at Simple Aussie Girls!

SAGs Challenge

2011-09-09T20:57:00.001+10:00

Sharon set great challenge this week on the SAGs blog based on a magazine page.
Here are my pages...

The second page is in page protectors and hasn't scanned well sorry. the pages will sit side by side in an album.

Proof of Labrador life part 2...

2011-09-07T11:44:00.000+10:00

What can I say!!!

This area is about to be made over...make the most of it Jessie!!

Simple things...

2011-09-05T11:49:00.001+10:00

A weekend painting session with friends in the Spring sunshine!

Happy First Day of Spring!

2011-09-01T14:57:00.002+10:00

I seriously love this season! And I seriously love these in my front garden!

And this morning when I turned the TV they where discussing Spring Clean Your Diet...so I am.

Breakfast: Omelette with some spinach, mushrooms and a sprinkling of fetta.

Morning snack: Piece of fruit and a small handful of almonds

Lunch: A wrap with lots of salad and some tuna/protien.

Afternoon snack: Low fat and low sugar yoghurt and some fresh berries.

Dinner: Is based on the photo below.

It was recommended to try and stick to this for a week...I think I can!

I have also downloaded this free App to my iPhone. It is great for keeping track of food, water and exercise.

So far today I am doing good. I think I will be able to stick to this for the week.

Just need to add in the exercise now :)

Spring is on its way!

2011-08-29T11:00:00.001+10:00

and these are appearing in my garden!

The first flower is Pieris japonica, also known as lily-of-the-valley shrub, is a charming and versatile plant for the cooler zones of Australia. One of the most popular varieties is 'Christmas Cheer', a shrub which grows 1-2m (3-6') tall and has delicate, icing pink flowers. In the southern hemisphere it flowers from late winter to early spring, but in the northern hemisphere it flowers around Christmas, hence its name. the second is Magnolia Vulcan are wonderful small trees which produce large scented flowers on bare branches in winter and early spring.

Finally...

2011-08-26T08:05:00.000+10:00

My girls have not been keen bike riders...till now!

Livvy is my dare devil...once the training wheels where off ...

so was Livvy!

Maddy is another matter. She is far more cautious and no where near as confident as her little sister. It was slow and steady for her. But she is getting there.

Hang in there Princess...I know you can do it!

Excitement is buildng...

2011-08-24T07:43:00.002+10:00

This arrived in the mail this week...

with my name in it...

I am so excited to be doing this photography workshop!!!

Tuesday WITL

2011-08-18T22:09:00.001+10:00

I made a mistake on one page!

Should I fix it or should I just print it and not worry?

HELP!!! Hate decisions :(

WITL-Monday

2011-08-17T12:52:00.001+10:00

There is white strip on the side i cut off after printing. I have posted some finished pages on the SAGs blog.

bad filer!!!

2011-08-09T15:19:00.004+10:00

I just found this page on my laptop while looking for something else.

Wonder what else I might find if I keep looking?

Happy Birthday Maddy!!!

2011-08-07T20:30:00.001+10:00

Today Maddy turned 8. She is very happy to be 8.

Maddy "I am so happy to be 8!"

Mummy "Why is that sweetheart?"

Maddy " I don't like the number 7"

Oh Mad's...you say the cutes things xxx

I took this this morning at breakfast by the beach. A beautiful, simple way to start a special day :)
And this one of her reading the menu...I love it !

Happy Birthday baby girl. Thank you for putting my heart back together xxx

WITL Day 1

2011-07-26T23:49:00.003+10:00

I have more to do but I have made a start. I am sure I will change or add to these as I move through the days. They are very simple. But I have made a start :)

Supplies: Ali Edwards WITL templates.

Simple Things...

2011-07-24T15:42:00.005+10:00

This week my 19 year old daughter left to work on a tropical island.

Her little sisters are missing her !

and the worlds bestest biggest daughter...

2011-07-21T13:51:00.002+10:00

Oh look at those post baby blotchy cheeks of mine lol

Love you Dani xx

The worlds best big sister!!!

2011-07-19T23:43:00.000+10:00

What can I say... they are going to miss her like crazy!!!

She is there for them at everything they do...

and she has been a big sister for so long :)

But for now she will be here!!!

And we will need ti visit her there...soon :)

Dani part 2

2011-07-18T08:01:00.003+10:00

As I count down the days...a few more pages.

Cute Dani...

Sometimes I don't journal. Sometimes I like to just make sure a cute photo is the star and in the kids albums. Sometimes there is no story but just a captured moment in time.

Our first puppy and her brother xxx

And some father daughter bonding :)
All wonderful memories preserved...man I LOVE SCRAPPING!!!!!

Dani...

2011-07-16T21:11:00.003+10:00

My 19 year old is leaving home. I knew the day would come but didn't expect it to be so soon. She is going to work for 4 months on an island in the Whitsundays. I will miss her terribly. The little girls will miss her more. But she will have a ball and she will back sooner than we know. I am happy for her and I am VERY proud of her. She got offered the job within hours of emailing her CV. So for the next week it is "Dani Week" on my blog :)

I though I would she some pages about her...

This is baby dani ...

or chubby bubby!!!

and my beach babe from a young age :)

Today I...

2011-07-14T16:28:00.006+10:00

had a wash..

some stylist have such bad washing techniques...

a head massage...

and a blow dry and brush!

Oh its such a tough life!!!

simple things...

2011-07-10T23:15:00.003+10:00

My little girl is growing up ...

And I have been playing with a trial of Lightroom.

I have no idea what I am doing and if I really need it??

Oh...and don't forget to pop over to Simple Aussie Girls for this weeks challenge.

Thankful thought 2...

2011-07-09T11:07:00.005+10:00

I love my girls, and I long for my boy but am thankful for what I have here and now.

Harry Potter...

2011-07-07T21:18:00.002+10:00

Danielle and I have read every book and been to every movie together. Next week we are going to see the final movie together in Gold Class. It has been an 11 year Mother/Daughter adventure. We read the first book when she was 8. I am excited to see the final movie but sad our little adventure is coming to an end.

Maybe after this movie we need to have a monthly movie date.

A new Mother/Daughter thing.

What do you think Dani?

Go The Blues!!!!

2011-07-04T14:22:00.000+10:00

Those that know me well know I am a huge Rugby League fan. And for those outside Australia the Rugby League State of Origin is just like the Super Bowl in American...it is the highlight of the Aussie Sporting calendar. (Although some of you non-NRL types may disagree) It is the most watched sporting event on TV in Australia. AND I AM GOING!!!

You see it is a series of 3 games played between the 2 biggest rugby league states NSW and QLD. For the last 5 years Queensland has won (I am a New South Wales fan) BUT this year it is all tied up...1 game each and it is being billed as the biggest game in Origin history AND NSW are in with a big chance of winning.

As a NSW fan I am so hoping we can win but on a personal level my hubby and I are friends with the coach and a few of his staff. He is a good man who copped a lot of unwarranted bad press last year and mostly I hope for him they win. Oh and the captain of the NSW team is from our team Sharkies...Go Gall!!!

So...GO THE BLUES!!!!!!!!

SAGs Challenge 2

2011-07-02T23:17:00.001+10:00

Conversation.
Parts of conversation.
Things people say - all the time.

Looking through some old layouts and I stumbled across this one.

It still makes me chuckle when I read Maddy's excuses.

And she is still painful at breakfast...sigh.

Have you joined the challenge...it's never too late to record a conversation.

Just Do It...

2011-06-29T14:14:00.005+10:00

So in this year. Even though I have intended to do it the last few years...this year

I WILL DO IT !!!

reality check...

2011-06-27T11:35:00.003+10:00

After a weekend of sport, sport, more sport and dancing...

this room....

greeted me this morning looking like this...

And seeing as I seem to be in an confessional type mood...

this was full yesterday morning...

Now I am not taking the blame for all the missing bits...however I will confess to consuming 'more than my weekly treat allowance' in one day!!!

but did you know...

2011-06-25T22:25:00.003+10:00

What you know about me...

I have 3 amazing girls and a wonderful hubby that all mean the world to me...

I miss my son...

I love flowers and chocolate...

I should run/exercise more...(and I will)...really I will...

I have an adorable Labrador...

I love my kitchen...

I love to scrap...

and I love to take my girls and my camera to the beach...

BUT...did you know...

I'm a closet homey...I LOVE DANCE/HOUSE music!!!!

Someday...

2011-06-24T11:42:00.001+10:00

Its been a tough couple of weeks for me. Marks birthday was in May. Last weekend was 9 years without him. It has been a draining few weeks.

But this morning I put my iPod on full blast (my ears are still ringing) and walked in the sunshine with this man playing. His music touches my soul and ALWAYS lifts my spirits.

Thanks Rob...your are a musical genius!

Busted...

2011-06-23T09:29:00.001+10:00

busting a very daggy move.

I just found this in Olivia's party photos, I suspect my Mum took it, and was about to hit 'delete' then I figured...what the heck, put it out there and let you all have a giggle at my expense. I kind of figure it actually says a lot about me...I don't take life to seriously...as Nic so very kindly put it "I am not a princess". (Dont confuse this with "I dont like a bit of blig lol)

I think I was playing follow the leader...so I was actually copying a 6 year olds very daggy move :)
Oh...this is my favourite cardigan for this winter...loved it from the moment I popped it on.

5 things...

2011-06-21T10:57:00.000+10:00

1. Planning to buy one of these for when we go on our trip. The girls can take some photos and keep a journal each day. But which one...Anyone have any experience with either?

Buy the Fuji Instax 210 Wide Instant Camera at the Photojojo Store!

2. This works! Well I am pretty sure it does. Every night I have put it on my pillow I have slept like a baby. And it smells divine!

3. Really enjoyed this book more than her last one.

4. Desperately need a pair of these ... and to get out of bed in the morning and use them!

5. Seriously need to stop baking this!

Simple things...

2011-06-19T23:01:00.001+10:00

For as long as I can remember I have watched these hands doing this...

My Mum has always knitted. She is an amazing knitter. When I was young she taught me to knit... and this weekend my mother taught my 7 year old daughter to knit. Maddy was so excited. She is planning to make a scarf for her teddy. The simple things really are what life is all about.

Thanks Rebecca for making us stop each Sunday and remember this.

tubbing...

2011-06-17T08:12:00.001+10:00

So here is my layout as an 8.5 x 11 digital layout that I posted on the Simple Aussie Girls blog.

And here it is after I have printed in.

Here in Australia we cannot print in 8.5 x 11 size. So I have them printed as a 8x10 then mount them on cardstock. I guess that they then technically become hybrid layouts. I do like how they look and I like adding letter stickers to the page to give it some dimension.

Thankful Thought 1

2011-06-14T23:30:00.002+10:00

I am thankful for the connection Olivia shares with her puppy, Jessie.

Ali Edwards overlay available on her blog for free. Thanks Ali...love these!

Thanks also everyone for the awesome response to our new blog. Even Ali and Cathy have visited...beyond excited and happy about that :)

Houston...we have lift off...

2011-06-13T10:50:00.001+10:00

or should I say...

Crickey Mate...check this out!!!

And to quote the talented Nicole...

A simple style gallery is finally here. It will be just layouts from simple Aussie girls, for you to scroll through and get inspiration. Layouts only, not talking! Of course, you can talk and ask questions in the comments sections, but us posting are being quiet and just sharing layouts. So you have something, other than stupid facebook, to relax infront of with your morning coffee for 5 minutes, and get inspired along the way.

I for one am really looking forward to it.

Click here and go check it out. Even Cathy Zielske has, so you'd better hurry!

And if you like it, while you are there, copy the html for the Simple Aussie Girls button and pop it on your blog for us.

this photo...

2011-06-12T14:03:00.000+10:00

One the reasons i first started blogging was to help with memory keeping. I figured if the memories were recorded it here it would easy to transfer then to a page and an album. Seems I haven't been as good at this as I thought I would.

But today I have finally started. I am going back over some old posts and transferring the memory to a simple page and then popping it into my albums. I was right...blogging makes memory keeping easier!!

This is not a colour combination I would normally chose for a black and white. I could have used any combination but somehow I think this suits the photo and the story. And it is the colour of Tony's team so was an obvious choice.

To see more simple layouts like this pop back tomorrow when I share the link to this...

10 things...

2011-06-10T18:34:00.001+10:00

Today has been a really really lovely day. It has been 7 years since I have seen some very special people in my life. It is a long and somewhat sad story that I wont share that has led to this but today I managed to overcome the odds and finally caught up with my nieces, nephew and ex sister-in-law. To be honest today was the first time I met my youngest niece. Today was also the first time my little girls have met their cousins and Dani was in the same boat as me. So let me share my 10 photos and my story of today.

1. Cousins aged (in order) 4, 8, 7 & 6.

2. My nephew playing touch footy.

3. The last time these 2 saw each other they were babies...Maddy was only 6 months.

4. The youngest and oldest cousin. We had not met Lilli till today and Dani is clearly very happy to be holding her little cousin :)

5. Although Sherri is no longer officially Dani's Aunty she will ALWAYS be her Aunty in her heart...where it counts...no-one will ever take her place :)

6. And will always be my sister-in-law. She was there for me in my darkest days and I will NEVER forget that. Love you Shez xx

7. These two knew each other well 7 years ago. And it is so obviously clear that they are so happy to finally see each other again. And it was especially great that dani was able to watch Luke play touch football as she too has played the game at a representative level. These two will always mean the world to each other :) And these two will always remember the times they had together with Mark.

8. Apparently this little one is not quick to give out cuddles to people she doesn't know well. She must have felt at ease with her cousins :)

9. And to finish off a wonderful day a box of fruit and veg straight form the Aussie Farmers was waiting at my front door when I arrived home...

10. And a spotless house :)

Oh and speaking of things Aussie... call back on Sunday to hear more about this!!!

I think you will like what we are cooking up!!!

Simple love...

2011-06-08T14:13:00.002+10:00

Do you love pages that are simple, where the 'words & pictures' are the focus?

Are you the keeper of memories in your family?

Is your album mostly pages like this?

This is how I like to keep the memories I think are important to my family.

The memories my children will one day share with their children.

The memories this old duck will one day forget.

If you are like me...stay tuned????

Today I...

2011-06-07T11:49:00.003+10:00

Found this in iPhoto... how did I miss this one. My two baby girls:)
Longing for bikini and ice-cream days. Not liking these cold winter days...and its only been a week.

Enrolled here. I am beyond excited!!!

I scrapped !!!

2011-06-05T00:20:00.002+10:00

Well I recorded some memories. I'm having a thing about the word "scrapbooking" at the moment. I am really like the notion of "memory keeping". I think that's what I am trying to do. I am trying to keep memories alive... record them for the girls. I am not so much about the processes and products although I TOTALLY love the way Ali E memory keeps. How brilliant is this baby book. She uses great products but still her memories are the focus. How does she do it so brilliantly? I so wish I could. I have tried but it just doesn't feel right. I just can't get it to work like Ali. And so I will stick with the clean and simple style that I so dearly love and know and worry mostly about the preserving of the memory.

So I set myself a challenge tonight. 2 pages! And I am happy to say I managed 4.
The first two lots of photos have been sitting on a piece of white cardstock for ages...waiting for inspiration/time/energy/inclination to scrap! And tonight determination won the day:)

Sorry if they haven't scanned so well.

And this one has been sitting half finished for a while...I have done the same layout for Livvy. And I am pretty sure it was inspired by Nicole . I guess I am cheating saying I have completed 4 pages but I do have 4 new pages in albums so that's the most important thing :)
Be sure to pop back. I am on a roll now. The next lot of photos and white pages are out and ready to go.

a month in photos...

2011-06-02T14:44:00.001+10:00

I am joining in with Rebecca. I love this concept and the wonderful templates she has shared. Just saw the 12 x 12, I certainly could have filled that too this month :)

May 2011

1. Livvy turns 6 ... parties and smiles.

2. School sports carnival

3. Brisbane getaway.

4. State of Origin

A full and fun month :)

Today...

2011-06-01T13:01:00.000+10:00

I am a bit tied because at 1am last night my 19 year old found one of these in her room...

According to the local pest man it is Mouse Spider NOT a Funnel Web...however at 1 am in morning I don't care I still DONT want it in my house. Apparently all the rain we have has bought it out of the ground mmm. Right this very minute the landscapers that work for us are digging up my front garden and putting in new fresh soil :) Just to be safe...I know Sharon I am a big sooky lala but I live in suburbia!!!
And well there is nothing like an uninvited house guest to make one CLEAN the house furiously!!!

On a far lighter note. I have decided that June is the month I get my scrappy/crafty mojo back!!!! I was very excited to find this in the mail this week.

Just in time for my June month of action. Our local haberdashery store, Lincraft was a total disgrace!!!! It was always messy, dirty and the staff were rude. I even commented to them one day they where lucky there was no other like it in the area or no-one would come to their store. Well karma I say...when you treat customers poorly they will leave very quickly. Spotlight was packed today...and the staff were so friendly. And apparently My Lincraft was checking out his new opposition...bet he got a RUDE shock. I really dislike bad customer service...hello your job is "customer service"!!!

Anyway...off my soap box...this managed to make its way home.

Some pj's for the girls and the jotter for some story writing :) Bring on June I say !!!

5 things...

2011-05-31T10:48:00.000+10:00

So Amy has put out another challenge (yep im late to the party again...story of my life...one thing that will NEVER change lol) to photograph 5 things wont be around in 5 years.
This got me thinking how things might be different in our home in 5 years and what will be the same ??

I wonder...

1. If she will still be watching the football on the lounge with her Daddy...

2. Will I have a new car as I won't need a big back seat for these?

3. Will this room be tidy?

4. Will this outdoor area be reclaimed and finished?

5. Will this name still be above this door?

One thing is for sure and certain. In 5 years I will have documented a lot of great memories along the way :)

Simple things...

2011-05-30T11:42:00.001+10:00

Last week I spent a few days hanging out with the little girls in Brisbane. It was great to just get up and do whatever we felt like. We hopped on the City Cats for a ride around Brisbane River. I was taking photos and the girls asked if they could take some. Livvy took this one of Maddy and me. I think this is the best photo of me I have. I LOVE IT. And I love it even more because my 6 year old daughter took it of her sister and Mum.

It is simply perfect !!!

And I am in front of the camera for a change :)

On Saturday..

2011-05-29T14:37:00.001+10:00

So Amy asked...What happened on your Saturday?

Well Amy...

The girls had a dance eisteddfod...

and won :)

Maddy played and I coached netball...big win :)

Livvy performed her first ever solo...so proud of her for getting up on stage on her own...a winner in my eyes :)

and hubby coached and won football :)

A pretty bloody good day I think. Sometimes in life the stars just align and things fall your way. It has been a brilliant week for us. My hubby realised a dream this week and I am so proud and happy for him. Just maybe someone special up there knows his Mum and Dad needed a good week.

I often wonder if life is random or is there a path mapped out that we discover as we go? What do you think?

Still here...

2011-05-27T15:09:00.000+10:00

just struggling to find time and energy to post. Lots of things happening and photos to share but could wait to share these. I think they will be my favourite photos for the year...the girls took them while we were in Brisbane.

What amazing lighting and depth of field...Way To Go Girls!!! I am training them well :)

No greater gift that being a mother!!!

2011-05-05T14:35:00.001+10:00

Today was the annual school athletics carnival. Maddy bought home a note asking if she wanted to participate in the Junior 200 meters race. I explained that it was shorter that the cross country and that for every race you enter your sports house gets points but also that she would be competeing against girls 2 years older than her.

This is what she said...

" Well I remember after the Cross Country carnival Mr Pageant (sports teacher) said the house that won only beat the team that came second by 1 point. Mum if I go in the 200m race I will get 2 points and then if our house wins by 1 point then that would be one of my points so I will go in it...even if I come last!"

And here she is..

and she did come last but...

she never gave up and smiled, grabbed a friends hand and ran back to her class. Happy in the knowledge she has got her team 2 points!!!

Madisson Aimee... I was so VERY VERY proud of you today. You are growing into an amazing young lady. You are so kind and thoughtful of others. Your teacher has said you are like this at school too. Maddy, I am so proud to be your Mummy. I love you xxx

Our weekend in photos...

2011-05-02T11:09:00.001+10:00

Well what an eventful weekend.

1. A high tea with Grandma for my three princesses.

2. It rained so netball was cancelled and the kids decided to chill at home and not get wet and cold at the football. So I took the time to work on holiday plans.

3. And I blinked and this chubby 2 year old...

turned 6!

And this was the best I could get of the three girls...silly faces and a tied teenager (remember those late nights at 19 !)

We headed to the local coffee shop for breakfast then over the road to the park and 3 of Liv's school friends were there...she was so excited to run into them.

And yes that is sunshine...after a week of rain it stopped for Liv's birthday.

We headed back home for a cake...(a yummy fruit flan from the local bakery)

then off to another park. This one was just finished last week and the kids love it. It was a great place to test out the new scooter...

and have Dad push the birthday girl on the swings.

All in all a great weekend...now I have to clean the house ... sigh!!!

Looking forward to...

2011-04-28T23:32:00.002+10:00

First I want to say THANK YOU for all the lovely sweet comments left on my previous post.
It has been fun meeting so many wonderful new "blogland" people!!!

This weekend is shaping up to be a busy one. I am looking forward to...

1. The Royal Wedding and suitable festivities. Have some fun things planned for the girls.

2. Coaching Maddy at netball and watching Tony coach his football team with my parents.

3. Olivia's 6th birthday. Lots of fun things planned for my little Sporty Spice.

4. Taking lots of photos to share :)

And by Sunday night I will be looking forward to this...

... an exhausted but sleeping 6 year old!!!

Whats on for your weekend?

My Day In Photos...

2011-04-27T11:42:00.002+10:00

See more days here.

ANZAC DAY 2011

2011-04-25T10:50:00.000+10:00

Today I went to my first dawn service this morning. Today I very proud to be an AUSTRALIAN.

Everyday I am thankful for the sacrifices many have made and continue to make so we are able to live safely in this amazing country.

(image from the internet)

Lest We Forget.

Today...

2011-04-24T21:42:00.002+10:00

I made clues for an egg hunt...

and the girls had a ball looking for them.

We relaxed and even made a bunny rabbit mobile :) Isnt it cute!!!

It is a combination of Rebecca Coopers idea here and this post.

Hope you had a wonderful Easter!

And here it is...

2011-04-22T17:13:00.001+10:00

Pondering these thoughts. When you post a scrapbook page do you simply say?

Here is a page I completed today and I just want to share it...

... because there really is nothing else to say. In my opinion the journaling should say it all. If there is more to say it should be on the page.

Or do you add something about the creative process?

Today I created a page in clean and simple style. Funny though it that looks a lot like this one I created last year..

only the words and pictures are reversed. Have you ever tried reversing a page?

Oh and the elements are the same; words, pictures, white bazzil and a brad or 2! Seems that is the case on this page too...

and some letter stickers thrown in for good measure. As you can see I like may pages simple. I like words and pictures to take center stage. My style is heavily influenced and inspired by, in my opinion the 2 best simple scrappers. The one and only Cathy Z and my friend Nicole. Love their work!!!

It seems I don't have a lot to say when I share a page. Just here it is and I hope you like it. Sorry I have no clever or new technique to share. I am a bit technique phobic I think. Besides I just don't have the time or inclination for the other stuff. Just like Ali Edwards says...its all about the words & pictures...and all the words I have to say are already there on the page. If you would like to read them just click on the images and they will be easier to read. I hope maybe my journalling may inspire you to be heartfelt and honest about what you say on your pages.
Thanks for stopping by.

Why....

2011-04-20T12:01:00.001+10:00

I have been thinking for a while lately wether to keep with the blogging or just give it up! I love the idea of blogs but I get distracted from what I should be doing when I sit down to the computer...there are so many inspiring things to find in blog land and before I know it its school pick up time and dinner is not sorted (and some days I confess the breakfast plates are still on the bench).
One friend calls me Distracted Di! And loves me for it. Others might say I am not the most organised person in the world. I did ask one friend just the other day (my supper organised friend)... if something happened to us tomorrow would you rather your kids remembered what a clean, organsied person you were or would you rather they spent countless hours reading over all the wonderful stories that have been documented in their scrapbooks? No brainer if you ask me.

And so I will keep blogging and scrapping and tell stories for my kids. I looked back at my first post and this is what I said ..."I plan to post photos, scrapbook pages and use this to help me keep track of whats happening in our lives. Hopefully it should be easy to then transfer my thoughts to scrapbook pages. Good plan but we will see! " I think I have done alright...I do need to transfer some of the stories here to pages and I will over the coming months.

My scrapping has changed a bit. I have embraced digi scrapping. But my style has stayed the same. Clean and Simple...

words & pictures...

And were once I painstakingly cut each photo to size...

I now use templates...love you CZ for going digi!!!

oh...and my love of white Bazzill is as strong as ever :)

Well I will hope that someone finds my ramblings worth reading ... and if not ... then maybe I should get a hard copy of it for my girls and file it away with their albums. I think that is possible! Has anyone done that and if so where???

Our ultimate Christmas Holiday...

2011-04-18T22:54:00.000+10:00

This year we are planning an amazing adventure for our family. We are taking the girls to Canada for a white Christmas. This is where we will be on December 25th...

I am excited beyond words. I have never been overseas. I dont even have a passport yet. My kids have never been out of Australia...and have never even seen snow first hand. We have talked about how exciting a white Christmas would be and so we have arrived at the time of our lives when we can and should go.

The little girls will be 6 and 8, not too young and old enough to appreciate the journey and then Dani will be 20. Almost an adult but still a big kid at heart and still very keen and not too cool to holiday with her parents.

So we will spend 12 days in Canada then head to the West Coast of USA...and this is where I need help!
Where do we go? What should we see? We know the obvious ones...Disneyland, LA, San Francisco...but do we drive down the Californian Coast? Are there quaint places that aren't in the travel magazines we should see???

I know I have some bloggy friends in USA and Canada. Please help this simple Aussie girl out so our trip of a life time is everything we dreamt it would be.

And man I can't wait to to get my camera working on this trip...I am afraid it will take more than one photo book to document :)

Our life...

2011-04-17T12:02:00.001+10:00

We spend many many hours at football fields around Sydney. Tony coaches rugby league at a pretty high level, we are very very proud of his achievements and we love to watch his teams. There is only one thing missing...one that over shadows all he has achieved in the game he loves...Mark is not there to share it with him...his son should be by his side for this amazing journey...his son would be very proud...his Dad was his idol and he would have loved it all...it should have been the ultimate father/son experience for them.

But us girls are there in every way we can be for him...Mark is there in my heart...and Maddy and Livvy cheer loudly for his team...and this one...

would stand alone in the rain...just to watch Daddy's team :)

making the most of a warm autumn day...

2011-04-16T11:09:00.001+10:00

Winter is on its way but Summer is still hanging on by a thread. I love Autumn and Spring because you can...

paint in the sun...

swim in the ocean...

and plant out a new herb garden.

Loving the school holidays so far :)

Easter Craftiness...

2011-04-10T20:56:00.001+10:00

I have never got into the whole Easter decorating thing before and i'm not sure why I am this year...but I am. Maybe its because both Posh and Sporty are at school now and I want to make the very most of our time together during the holidays and seeing as they have almost 3 weeks off we will be able to do lots of things.
Tomorrow is housework day and if my little Spice girls are good helpers we will head to Spotlight for a crafty shop after lunch. (Love Spotlight !!)

I have spent the afternoon looking for some fun ideas. I'm not getting the whole egg dying thing. I don't see the point just drawing patterns on an egg and dipping it in dye. What does it achieve? What are the development outcomes of this activity? Ops...sounding to much like a teacher! And besides what do you do with them afterwards...eat them?
Having said that I am TOTALLY getting these...

...how cute are they!!! I can see value in making these to sit in special places around the house :)

And okay...what about these...love the marbling effect. I think these would look cool in a little basket.

And maybe I should get the sewing machine out too...are these not the cutest things you have seen!!!

And if I can find and egg and/or bunny punch we could make a mobile like this :)

Oh...and definitely printing this too!

Any more good ideas out there please let me know :)

Finally some scrapping...

2011-04-06T14:39:00.000+10:00

I cant say the mojo has returned but i am feeling a bit inspired and motivated to clear a very LARGE backlog of photos. And I need to record some stories before they are gone from my head. I really need to be more like Amy and Nicole...they are great at getting the story on a page pretty quickly. In the moment scrapping I guess...something I need to be better at. For the most part all of 2010 photos are unscrapped. I am considering a photo book to address that issue. What do you do with a big back log? (Keep it clean Sharon and Amy!)

I have a pile of planned pages (and admitting to that is bad...why haven't I just got into it and finished them!!!) Here are some I managed to complete this week.I have used the same layout for both. Same word document with a slight change. I do this often, it is a very productive way to get pages completed.

The first is about maddys Kindy teacher who sadly left after 2 terms but will never be forgotten (well we see her around a lot as she lives locally) she was BRILLIANT. And I am saying that as a mother and a teacher. A good teacher makes all the difference :) Can't you tell by her smile what a lovely lady she is!

And here is Sporty Spice ... expending more of the never-ending energy she possess :) I popped into see her teacher today (we lucked in here too...she is great and wont be leaving) and Sporty is being more settled. Her teacher has high expectations for her. And that is good. She can see what she is capable off. She is a very very clever little girl...we just need to direct her cleverness for good and not evil ;)

I know this is a bit wonky. I give up...it just wouldn't go straight!!! Oh and yes typo's argggggg!!!!!
I gave up on worring about spelling a long time ago. And yes I am a teacher but I was a great role model...my dictionary NEVER left my side:)

another sporty post...

2011-04-04T12:46:00.000+10:00

Today was the Annual School Cross Country. Posh Spice (aka Maddy) is not as keen on the running as Sporty Spice (aka Livvy) but both headed of eager and ready to go :)

And don't they look like loving caring sisters ... well they are ... mostly... but when their not argggg!

So first was Posh...she ran...and chatted...and ran a bit more. She was very excited to come 13th (love how she focuses on the positive...there are 17 girls in her year :)

Then Sporty Spice...she was first out the gate and ended up coming 4th. Good effort Sporty...finally she is putting the energy and attitude to good use (you see after 7 weeks at school the teacher has nominated her as "The Leader"... of the motley crew... ops ... the total opposite to Maddy and a complete carbon copy of her brother...I love it!!!)

And at the end of the day the most important thing to be gained from the event is 'fun and friendship'! This is Liv's best little buddy, our neighbour and heir to The Motley Crew throne!

And for the record...as a teacher "the motley" crew were always my favourite kids...I love kids with confidence and personality, those ones you can have a real chat to, the ones who get excited when their favourite footy teams wins, who have fun climbing trees and learn lots about life outside the classroom. They're the kids that get on best in life, they are the ones that get out there and make life happen :)

Five on Friday...and a promise!

2011-04-01T13:11:00.000+11:00

1. Autumn is here...cool crisp mornings...I love it :)

2. Winter sport has started. Maddy is playing netball for the first time...

3... and I am the coach...we had a 2-1 win in our first game, the girls were very excited :)

4. I have lost 4.5 kg of fat ( yep 9 tubs of butter...gone YIPEE!) in my efforts to get fit and healthy.

5. I ordered my 20 year wedding anniversary present on Wednesday...I have a week to wait. So you will have to wait as well ;)

I promise...to scrap and blog more. I need to get the stories recorded. I feel better about life when I scrap :)

See you soon
xx

oh dear...bad blogger...again..

2011-03-10T11:46:00.001+11:00

Summer is just to hard to keep up with blogging for me. I am an outdoors person in Summer...but I am over the heat and humidity this year...I am happy that Autumn has arrived, although Summer has not quite got that it should be gone yet!!! The heat is lingering...sigh!!!
But alas the football season in upon us (Rugby League in my case) and that means hubby heads to numerous training sessions and team commitments and thus I have extra time to myself and that can only mean one thing...SCRAPPING!!!! Yep I am a Winter scrapper I have decided. While hubby is off coaching I love to scrap when its too far or late to take the kids. It works well for us both. And heaven knows after 2 moves in 12 months it is time to settle in back home and get back on track (note I didn't say up-to-date) with my scrapping and story telling. Sooooo many things I want to get done and some many inspiring friends out there...Bring it on!!!

Yesterday I spent a lovely day with Maddys class at the Art Gallery NSW...

and then at The Chinese Gardens at Darling Harbor.

A day with 40 year 2 students...mmm... food for thought if I plan to go back to teaching???
Hope to post some pages soon :)

The mojo is finally flowing...

2011-02-16T12:05:00.001+11:00

Here is another page I have created in my little burst of inspiration!!! Another CZ template :)

Will post an up-date on my Move Less Eat More (I am going good so far) and my One Little Word (feeling happier)!!

Thanks for stopping by and saying hi. I have really appreciated your lovely comments on my last few post...this scrappy/snappy/create blog world is a nice place to visit :)

OPS!!! Move MORE Eat LESS!!!! hehehehehehe

Love is...

2011-02-14T09:25:00.002+11:00

A layout from two years ago...and I love them even more today!!!

PS...I cant take credit for the cooking and decorating...just the cute kids ;)

PPS...Would love you to go here and vote for my photo...Thanks a ton :)

But wait ...

2011-02-13T18:22:00.000+11:00

there's more. Don't ask where the mojo came from...it just came and I am going with it!

I know they look the same but who cares...they will go in different albums :)

And today I have been sorting scrapping things and stumbled across a CZ template I didn't know I had...so I used it with some old photos.

Not sure about the date stamp..thoughts please ?

I love the main photo...Livvy has attitude! Don't know when and where it came from, her big sisters don't, but she has it in bucket loads. Her dance teachers love it! I worry about her now she is at school. I am going have to watch her closely and as the dance teachers have said "channel it"...wish me luck!

And seriously...is there anywhere we can get 8.5 x 11 printed in Australia? Would be so easy!!

Warning...you may need to sit!!!

2011-02-12T20:30:00.000+11:00

because...I SCRAPPED!!!!!!! I feel like I cheated...it is a digi page using Cathy Zs latest template. But what the heck... I SCRAPPED!!!!!

I wish there was somewhere her in Australia that printed 8.5 x 11, it is very frustrating! So I will print the white section at Harvey's (cause the girls know me and usually do it straight away for me) as an 8 x 10 and stick it on craft with a strip of pp at the bottom.
Stay tuned for 'a conversation with Olivia'.

A final first day...

2011-02-04T15:58:00.000+11:00

Today has turned out to be more emotional that I anticipated. I know Livvy will love school, she is so ready and I am so ready to watch her grow and learn. I just wasn't ready for so many memories, feelings and thoughts from Marks first day to surface.
Livvy is a female version of Mark in so many ways. She is cheeky and loving just like he was. She loves a lot of things her did and her birthday is only 6 days different to him. This year she will be 6. Mark was that age when we lost him. I expected this year to be a tough one emotionally with Livvy and today was my first hurdle. I have shed a lot of tears today. This afternoon I will hug Livvy and Maddy and look forward to their excited stories of today!

So heres to my last first day...

Dani 1997

Mark 2002

Maddy 2009

Livvy 2011

Not the best photo but she was shooing me out of the room!

And how cute are these photos!!

I bet she'd do anything right now to have that hug again...

but I guess at the time he was just an annoying little brother :)

Dani yr 5 and Mark kinder

And these two are too cute...for now at least :)

One Little Word

2011-02-02T21:37:00.000+11:00

So I have a list of things I want to achieve as far as photography and scrapping is concerned this year and also a few personal/health issues I need to get on top of. A lot of those things are related and all tie into together :)

I have the feeling that this year actually starts today for me. It is tough to get out of holiday mode in January here in Australia. Summer school holidays are busy, hot and fun and very tiring! And by the end of January the kids are ready to get back to school and us parents are ready to resune normal scheduling.

I have signed up for Ali's One Little Word at BPS this year. My word is ...

I am looking forward to getting my homework completed for this month when the kids are back at school and I have some me time. This month Ali ask us to see our word through our camera. How can you photograph the meaning of your word for yourself and what you are hoping to bring into your life this year? It might be something that reminds you of your word or something related to your word that inspires you.

I think this photo nails my word!!!

proof of life...

2011-01-31T10:33:00.000+11:00

passing way to fast!!!

Maddy 2009

and today!!!

Not the best photo...camera was on the wrong setting...will have to take a pretend shot tomorrow :)
And thinking she is looking tied after a fun holiday...ops...aren't they supposed to rest!!!

just chilling...

2011-01-30T22:12:00.000+11:00

The last few weeks have been very busy, lots of swimming

and so I have spent the last few days chilling!

Will get back to blogging soon xx

Project 64

2011-01-17T13:46:00.001+11:00

What a fun concept to start the year with...thanks girls at Project 64 :)

Week 2 Carnation Pink

With a house full of girls it wasn't' hard to find this colour! Yesterday we headed to the local nursery to get get some flowers for the girls cubby. This morning this is what I saw...I love it!

And this is for Amy and Sharon...before they email and ask ;)

2011 Projects

2011-01-16T21:47:00.000+11:00

An new year and a new project...well more than one actually. I've come to realise I am a sucker for a project. And it would seem that I suck at seeing them through too sadly. But what the heck its a new year so why not try again and see how many I manage to stick with. Last year I did manage to complete (almost...with a small amount of fudging!) 365 days of photos and I am almost finished housing them all in my Project Life kit. I will share this soon. But for now here is my wish list for 2011...

One Little Word

Im joining Cathy Z

Loving this cool concept

The Sunday Creative

And I love everything Rebecca Cooper does!

Oh and there are a few more things I want to do but I will see how I go with this list to start!!

And of course I plan on sewing more too.

Then there are these new blogs that are inspiring me...will be adding these to my list :)

Paint The Moon

The PigBear

Oh and amongst all this I do plan to scrap again :)