Stampinsars

Free Trial of Digital software...

2012-02-01T18:19:00.000-08:00

Want to try your hand at digital designing? Download a 30 day FREE trial of My Digital Studio and start designing TODAY!!

FREE TRIAL

Art Kids

2012-01-30T13:59:00.000-08:00

Just one more week until Art Kids classes start! There are still a couple spots available. Contact me soon to register your child.

An exciting new addition to my class line up.....

ART KIDS!!

Art Kids - Art classes for kids aged 6-12. Improve your drawing and painting skills using several different art mediums, including stamping. Classes will be held on Mondays in February from 3:30 - 4:30. $17 per class, or $55 if you sign up for all 4 classes. All supplies provided.

Class dates: February 6, 13, 20, 27

Sale-A-Bration

2012-01-24T11:37:00.000-08:00

Sale-a-Bration 2012 is HERE!!

Click to see the brochure: SAB 2012

Shop 24/7 at my website and start earning free rewards with purchase now!

My Stampin' Website!

Card Class Update

2012-01-17T16:07:00.000-08:00

{Please note that I have switched tonight's card class to next Monday}

2012 Super Stampin' Series Schedule:

please note *** DATE CHANGED DUE TO WEATHER
New Date: Monday, January 23rd - 7 - 9:30pm
♥ Birthday Bash - make 5 cards with a masculine theme, and 5 cards with a feminine theme. 10 cards total. Envelopes provided. Please bring your basic adhesive (paper to paper). Everything else is provided. $25.00

There is still room in this class, so I'd love to have you join us for a fun night of stamping!

Brunch

2012-01-07T10:51:00.000-08:00

I don't share many recipes on this blog since that's not my first love, or a huge interest of mine. Now, if my husband kept HIS blog up to date, then I am sure there would be a million recipes on his blog because he is amazing! But, I just came across this super simple, and super yummy-looking brunch idea, so I thought I would share the link with you.

Super Simple Brunch Strata

Hmmm... we're having company over for brunch next weekend - maybe I will try this recipe on them :)

Occasions Mini Catalogue is HERE!!!

2012-01-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

The new mini catalogue is LIVE! Great new products in coordinating "suites": Twitterpated, Attic Boutique, Sweet Shop.

You'll love the new papers, embellishments and of course, stamp sets.

OCCASIONS MINI

Online shopping - SHOP 24/7 on my website: SHOP NOW

2012 Super Stampin' Series!

2012-01-05T09:33:00.001-08:00

I am very excited to announce my class schedule for the next 3 months. For the classes in the "2012 Super Stampin' Series" a portion from each class fee will be donated to a cause that is near and dear to our family. For every person that signs up for one of these classes, $5 will be donated to Matthew's House (www.mattshouse.ca) Matthew's dad is my husband's cousin. So, Matthew and his sister and brother are my kids' 2nd cousins.

About Matthew's House: (from the website)

Matthew's House is an organization that will provide respite for children with life-limiting disabilities. It is the first of its kind in Abbotsford as, within a campus of care, it offers children a safe, welcoming place where they can stay, while allowing their parents time to rest. It will offer long and short term respite based on the needs of individuals and their families.
Read more HERE

All classes will be $25.00, and will run from 7:00 - 9:30pm on the dates listed. Many of these classes will fill up fast, so take a look and let me know which ones interest you. Sign up for one, or sign up for all! We will make 10 cards at each class, (we will make at least 2 different designs each night) and they will feature fun techniques and great new products from Stampin' Up!. There are 10 spaces available per class, however, if there is a lot of interest in a particular class, I will be able to open up an additional night for that class.

2012 Super Stampin' Series Schedule:

please note *** DATE CHANGED DUE TO WEATHER
New Date: Monday, January 23rd - 7 - 9:30pm

♥ Birthday Bash - make 5 cards with a masculine theme, and 5 cards with a feminine theme. 10 cards total. Envelopes provided. Please bring your basic adhesive (paper to paper). Everything else is provided. $25.00

Friday, February 3rd - 7 - 9:30pm
♥ First comes love.... - make cards appropriate for Anniversary, Valentines, Friend (suitable for feminine birthday cards) as well as 4 baby cards (2 for boys, 2 for girls). 10 cards total. Envelopes provided. Please bring your basic adhesive (paper to paper). Everything else is provided. $25.00

Wednesday, February 15th - 7 - 9:30pm
♥ Kid Birthdays - make 5 birthday cards for boys and 5 for girls. Perfect for giving to the little people in your life! 10 cards total. Envelopes provided. Please bring your basic adhesive (paper to paper). Everything else is provided. $25.00

Tuesday, March 6th - 7 - 9:30pm
♥ All Occasions - make 2 unique designs of cards in this class, suitable for many different occasions. You pick the sentiment, or leave it blank for a later date. 10 cards total. Envelopes provided. Please bring your basic adhesive (paper to paper). Everything else is provided. $25.00

In my stocking this year....

2012-01-03T00:34:00.000-08:00

Well, once again, I was spoiled this year! Family, Friends, Feasts, Festivities... amazing memories created, and many photos taken.

I thought I would share one of the treasures that I received this year. I am quite excited about this. A friend from Victoria has started making delicious soaps. One found its way to my stocking (thanks mom :) - this is the peppermint bar from Carriage 44. Check them out on facebook, or click on the link for their website.

Scandinavian Hearts

2012-01-03T00:23:00.000-08:00

We hosted Christmas for Steve's family this year, and I made these Scandinavian Hearts to hold chocolates as the kids' place settings. They are a tradition in Scandinavian countries, and are super easy to make. I remember making them with my Mormor and my mom when I was young. I've often done them with kids at school, and once you've made one, they are easy as pie! When we would go to my Mormor and Morfar's house on Christmas Eve, they would have these hearts on their tree, and sometimes there would be small gifts in them, or an orange or some candies. They can be made any size and I think some really small ones would be cute on the front of a card, or you could make some up the right size to be a gift card holder. They are pretty at Christmas time, but also very appropriate for Valentine's Day ♥

I didn't use a template - just cut the 2 pieces on folds and then cut straight lines, but if you want to see some directions, here's a good tutorial: WOVEN HEARTS

I used some colourful Christmas paper, but other things like newspaper, wrapping paper, and even old wallpaper books are great papers for these hearts.

10 years.... TEN YEARS!!!

2011-12-22T08:27:00.000-08:00

It's our anniversary. Our tenth. I'm pretty proud of that. I knew the minute I laid eyes on Steve that he was going to be mine. Of course, it just took him a little bit longer (like 18 months!) to figure that out, but he did. Bless his heart, he did, and then 3 1/2 months later he asked me to marry him. I said yes. And 3 1/2 months after that, we got married. 3 days before Christmas.

When I was in the store the day before our wedding and I happened to mention to the clerk that I was getting married the next day, she took my hand and said, "Oh congratulations... I hope you get SNOW!"

What an awful thing to say to someone about to get married! Granted, it was 3 days before Christmas, but the last thing I wanted, in my sleeveless wedding dress, was snow. Good night lady, what are you thinking?!

It didn't snow. It was plus 10 on our wedding day and we even had some outdoor photos. I had a sleeveless gown and not a care that it was the 2nd day of Winter.

We spent our first Christmas together in Cuba. Such a great vacation for our honeymoon. Over the years, I've been adding pages here and there, to a scrapbook for Steve. I haven't done anything for awhile, so I thought I would do up a couple pages in MDS (My Digital Studio) and give them to him on our anniversary.

Happy Anniversary, Steve.
I love you with all my heart!

Here's the double layout...

Pages separated to show the detail better. MDS is such a great tool to use, and I find myself using it for far more than just digital scrapbooking.

Goodbye Fall

2011-12-17T14:22:00.000-08:00

Growing up, I always thought it was strange that Wintertime only starts just right before Christmas. It seemed like Christmas should be right in the heart of Winter, but instead, it actually is what welcomes Winter. I thought about this the other day when my kids were talking about it being so cold in Winter and I had to tell them that Winter wasn't even here yet! We still have a couple days left of Fall, which is my favourite season. Even though Christmas is my favourite holiday, Fall is my favourite season. I love the colours, I love warm sweaters, and I love love love bonfires!

I did this watercolour picture using my Watercolor Wonder Crayons from Stampin' Up!, and an aquapainter. I did the painting and then outlined everything with a fine black SU! marker.

So, as a last farewell to Fall 2011, I thought I would share my painting :)

Clearance Rack

2011-12-16T18:35:00.001-08:00

Don't wait for Boxing Day - there's deals to be had now!

Tons of new items added to the Clearance Rack. Check out my website for savings up to 80%...

Online orders only... click here for my website: ONLINE STORE

November Cards

2011-12-13T22:20:00.000-08:00

I know it's a bit backwards to post December's cards before November's, but that's just how it worked out this time around. With all the computer issues we've had, and are still having, I just haven't posted as much as normal.

So, here are November's cards!

The first one uses Jolly Bingo Bits and a couple of the "In Color" colours. There are a lot of pieces, but I love how it turned out.

A simpler, elegant approach for the second card. I love pink Christmas cards! And glitter is always appropriate when you are dealing with snowflakes (happy to say that so far today, it's just stamped and embossed snowflakes, even though I have heard that there are some real flakes in the forecast... I sure hope "they" are wrong!)

C is for Cookie!!!

2011-12-08T22:31:00.000-08:00

Here's something new from Stampin' Up! I love the new cookie stamps from Stampin' Up!

Click on this link for more details and to see it in my online store: Sweet Pressed Cookie Stamps

I bought them last month, but didn't get a chance to try them until now. I finally put them to good use (in time for last Monday's class!!) I cheated a bit on the cookie dough, and bought it through the grade 5 fundraiser at my kids' school. But there are 2 fabulous recipes included in the cookie stamps, so next time I use them (when I have a bit more time....) I will try out those recipes and then report back on them! I also want to try these stamps with my mom's awesome shortbread cookie recipe. That was a favourite growing up.

You can see the Sweet Pressed Cookie stamps in action on the SU! channel on You Tube: VIDEO

Class Cards - December

2011-12-08T22:27:00.000-08:00

On Monday evening, I had the last of my classes in a 4-class series. We made the following two cards.

Stay tuned for my upcoming list of classes for the New Year....

Online Extravaganza!!!

2011-11-30T08:52:00.000-08:00

ENDS TODAY... Last Chance for some amazing Christmas Deals!

Check out what Stampin' Up! has in store for you this holiday season....

Starting TODAY! Head to my online store and check out the great deals.

SHOP NOW!! 24/7 CLICK RIGHT HERE!

** please note: to get these deals you must place orders online. Click on the link above to get to my website store. Orders of $200 or more qualify for great hostess benefits!
Happy Shopping!!

Computers

2011-11-17T21:29:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard the saying:

"To err is human, but to really screw things up it takes a computer?"

Well, lately, we've had computer issues around here.... Steve's computer wasn't working so he took it into the shop.

Diagnosis = dead motherboard.
Solution = send it away to be replaced since it was under warranty. This meant that for the next 5 weeks we shared an office.

However, my computer was behaving badly, as well. So, yesterday, when he got his computer back, Steve took mine in for an evaluation....

Diagnosis = rapidly dying hard drive and fried video card.
Solution = send it away to be replaced... both of my computer's problems happen to be covered by warranty, as well.

The bad: we have to share an office for another few weeks.
The good: all parts were covered under warranty.

I have installed a few of my programs onto Steve's computer, but not all of the ones I usually use. He seems leery to let me take over his computer - I totally get it because I am reluctant to share mine with him, too. But, for instance, I need a printer, so I installed that. I haven't loaded my camera software on here yet, though.... but I might since the estimate was 3 or more weeks until my computer is returned. Until then, I won't post pictures. But I have a feeling that I won't be able to hold out too much longer!

I might have to find some fun things to post while I'm waiting.....

Chowder 'n Biscuits

2011-11-08T09:05:00.001-08:00

Last night Steve said, "I feel like chowder 'n biscuits - I'll make the chowder if you make the biscuits!" What a deal! I can make biscuits, no problem.

Then, I couldn't find my recipe. Should have it in my head, but it's not there. Happened to be on the phone with my sister at the time, so she pulled out her recipe and I quickly jotted it down. It's a good one, too! I'll be making these again.

Biscuit recipe is below... seafood chowder recipe is a secret :) (only because I don't know what Steve did... but I assure you that it was DELICIOUS!)

Cheesy Dill Biscuits

1 Cup shredded cheddar
1 1/3 Cups flour
1 TBS baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 TBS white sugar
1/2 - 1 tsp dill weed (I used an epicure dill mix that I had on hand)
1 egg slightly beaten
2 TBS oil
3/4 Cup milk

Do the dry ingredients together, wet together, then both together... bake at 375 for 15 - 20 minutes. Makes 12 in a muffin pan.

My sister recommended that I double the recipe... good plan! The kids LOVED them, and we polished off the lonely few leftovers for breakfast this morning. The only thing I will change is I don't think I'll use muffin papers again... just lightly grease the pan instead. It was hard to get them out of the papers. I don't know if that's because of something I did, or what, but I'd rather wash muffin pans than struggle with muffin papers. The ones this morning came out of the papers fine, so maybe they just needed to completely cool - but really, who wants to let fresh biscuits COOL before eating them? Yep, that settles it... I will not use papers next time.

Definitions...

2011-11-07T20:49:00.001-08:00

Thought this was funny :)

No English dictionary has been able to explain the difference between the two words 'complete' and 'finished' in a way that's so easy to understand:

Some people say there is no difference between COMPLETE & FINISHED but,
there is an explanation, as told by a Newfoundlander!!!!!!

When you marry the right one, you are COMPLETE....

And when you marry the wrong one, you are FINISHED.....

And when the right one catches you with the wrong one, you are ...
COMPLETELY FINISHED !!!

End of story

A New Blankie!

2011-11-06T20:55:00.000-08:00

I wasn't the kind of kid to have a "blankie" but I have one now!! I have been working on this rag quilt for quite awhile. I started it, and then lost interest, then worked on it a bit here and there over the past year. It's not very big, but it's still the biggest quilt I've ever made. It is about 55" square. I planned this to be my movie-watching blanket, and I am heading down to watch a movie right now... can't wait to try it out!

This is how the quilt started. A bunch of paper pieces glued together to make a pattern. I am very scientific when it comes to planning things (totally kidding... I am often called a "winger!" So the fact that I had a pattern, and that it came out relatively close to the original design is really amazing!)

Next, I gathered my fabric and used the scallop square die for my Big Shot and started cutting out fabric pieces. That part is super fun - best way to cut out fabric ever!

It's pretty cozy!

The back... one of the quilters that I follow on Google Reader always pieces her back, and I love that that gave me "permission" to use bits and pieces on the back of my quilt. Next time I'll get a little more creative, but it was hard enough keeping the design on track for the front of the quilt, let alone the back, so it is as it is on the back!

Close up of the rag squares. I have made several bags with this rag technique, but this is the first blanket. Love it... will do it again for sure!

November Hostess Benefits!

2011-11-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

It always pays to be the hostess with Stampin' Up! and in the month of November, all the way until December 15th, hostesses are getting an even bigger reward. An extra $45 in free merchandise when you host a workshop of $450 or more.

Call or email me today for more information, or start asking around to your friends and relatives to gather $450 worth of orders for a catalogue party!

click on link for more info:
IT'S GOOD TO BE THE HOSTESS

Last Week's Cards

2011-10-28T17:39:00.000-07:00

I have been volunteering a lot at my kids' school this past week, teaching grade 3 music in preparation for the upcoming Remembrance Day Assembly. It's not a great excuse for not posting, but it's part of the reason for my tardiness in sharing last week's Christmas class cards.

So, here they are. Thanks to all that came out to take the class - I had a great time with you!!

Egg Cartons

2011-10-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

My parents have chickens
and I am gathering
egg boxes for them.

I am collecting egg cartons
and boxes in the
1 doz and 2 1/2 doz (30 egg) sizes.

If you have a collection of
these building up,
and would like someone to take them off your hands...
I would be happy to do that!

Before you toss them in the big blue bag,
call me!

* photo from July 2011... this is not one of the laying chickens, but they are all cared for with this much love :)

Christmas Card Classes

2011-10-15T16:44:00.000-07:00

My October 17th Christmas card class is now full.

To get in on the next 2, please sign up early.
The dates are November 14th, and December 5th.

Sign up now to save your spot!

Auction this Weekend!

2011-10-14T19:56:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Come on out to the Abby Christian School Auction and Garage Sale tomorrow... LOTS of stuff there - I saw it being set up today and it's going to be good! I've got a table there, and I'd love it if you stopped by to say hi and check out my goodies! Pancake Breakfast from 7:30 - 9:30am, Garage Sale and Vendors open at 8. All new and expanded Kids' Corner, too, so bring the kids! Hope to see you there!

Get started in scrapbooking...

2011-10-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

I was just looking through some groups I belong to on Facebook, and someone asked the question: "What are some tips for a brand new scrapbooker?"

Since I wrote a long answer (no, not me!!!) I thought I would share it here, too.

I think the best way to start is to scrapbook the pictures that you really love. They will be more inspiring. Don't feel like you have to scrapbook every single detail of everyone in your family's life, or that you even have to do it in chronological order... you can always go back and fill in the blanks later. A single book doesn't have to be a single style, either, that way you can experiment with different styles of scrapping until you find what you really love doing. And most of all... have fun!

Sometimes, to get your creative juices flowing, it is helpful to start with a project that has a definite start and finish... like a trip, or a family reunion. Rather than your child's entire journey through elementary and high school... that is an ongoing process and it can be very overwhelming because it is easy to fall behind on something like that.

Remember, these are YOUR books, so as long as you are happy with them, that's all that counts. But, don't ever be afraid to show them off, even if you are a brand newbie! Others will like to see your layouts and you'll be able to inspire others with the things you create, as well. Google is your friend - find other scrapbookers' blogs and get ideas from them. Scraplifting is totally ok, as long as you don't sell another person's idea. If it's for your own books, go for it!

A Little Vintage

2011-10-08T15:08:00.000-07:00

I love the "Domestic Goddess" collection that Stampin' Up! put out in this latest Idea Book & Catalogue. It has a fun vintage feel that is so popular right now in everything from fashion, to home decor to papercrafting.

Here are a few cards I made recently using the supplies in this collection.

Domestic Goddesss COLLECTION
Designer Series Paper: Domestic Goddess
Stamp sets: On Your Birthday
House and Home
Sincere Salutations

Be a BIG SHOT!!

2011-10-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

When you join Stampin' Up! during the month of October, you will receive a FREE Big Shot! If you already have a Big Shot die cutting tool, then you can choose up to $125 in free merchandise. What a great way to begin a business... or to enhance a hobby :) There are so many uses for the Big Shot, and over 50 different kinds of materials that are "Big Shot friendly!" The possibilities for projects are seemingly endless. Contact me today!

For the other great promotions happening in October, please check out this LINK to my website.

Just for Fun!

2011-10-05T13:58:00.000-07:00

A week or so ago, this was floating around facebook. It still makes me laugh to look at it, so I thought I'd share it here!

Laughter is the best medicine :)

Canadian Blog Hop!

2011-10-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy "World Card Making Day!" And a great big special welcome to all the Blog Hoppers!

I am so excited to be part of this Canadian Card Making Blog Hop. I thought about the "Canadian content" of what I wanted to make, and decided that the stamp set I wanted to play with was my "Glorious and Free" set by Stampin' Up! Now, it's not "made in Canada" but it is definitely Canadian content, and one of the stamps I used says, "Made in Canada"! I made 3 cards, all using the same set.

Enjoy, and thanks so much for stopping by! Make sure you scroll to the bottom to get the links to the rest of the hop!

Inside of card:

Here's another simple one. I love this moose image!

And my favourite of the 3 cards uses layers of embossing powder, then you ink a stamp in Versamark and press it into the still-warm embossing powder. I think it creates a cool effect.

Make sure you visit the rest of the blogs on this blog hop tour! Such a talented bunch of crafters! I am so inspired! Plus... this entire blog hop is made up of CANADIANS!!

Next Stop.... Momma K Crafts

To get to the OTHER half of the HOP... Creative Accents

Cool Clock

2011-09-25T18:14:00.000-07:00

I was just doing a Google Image search, and came across this very cool clock. It must be pretty big, but I can't find the original post to get the details.

The picture is from Google Images, and was linked to this blog: Made By Girl

Abbotsford Christian School Auction

2011-09-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be a part of the Abbotsford Christian School Garage Sale and Auction this year. Come on out for some good family fun, and a great auction and food. Games for the kids, vendor tables (I'll have a table of stamping stuff... come by and say hi!!) and so much more. Don't miss the fun on October 15th. Hope to see you there!

Christmas Card Classes

2011-09-19T22:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the first in a series of 4 Christmas Card Classes that I am running this Fall.

I wanted to share the 2 cards we made tonight. Also, if you want to get in on the next few classes, please just drop me a note. We make 10 cards, 5 each of 2 designs, and the cost is $25.00... everything is included. I'd love to have you come out. There are still a couple spots in each of the last 3 classes. The dates are Oct. 17, Nov. 14, and Dec 5.

Handmade By Sarah

2011-09-17T22:10:00.000-07:00

On my blog sidebar, I used to have a link to one of my other blogs called "Cards By Sarah." I have changed that site a bit, and while I will continue posting cards I've made that are for sale, I also wanted to add other items I've made to sell. So, the new name is:

Handmade By Sarah

I love painting, and I used to do it all the time. It was one of the first things I turned to when I needed to express something. During the daylight hours, I will often sit down at my piano and play whatever song is propped up on the piano, just as I am passing by, but that doesn't work before or after certain times of the day, because I don't usually play all that quietly! When I lived in a basement suite, and was up late at night, I would pull out my paints and make a picture. When I found out I was expecting our first son, (I took the pregnancy test at 5 or 6 in the morning, and Steve was still fast asleep) I needed to show my joy, so I painted a picture! So, long before I ever held a stamp, or taught somebody to make a card, I loved painting. I got to paint a picture today, and I've just posted it on my handmade blog.

Please feel free to browse, I will be adding things as I get them created and photographed.

Christmas Card Classes

2011-09-11T22:10:00.000-07:00

I am excited to offer another set of Christmas card classes this year.

The dates for the Christmas classes will be:

September 19
October 17
November 14
December 5

These are all on Monday evenings, and the classes will run from 7 - 9:30pm.

The cost of each class will be $25.00 which will include everything you need. We will make 10 cards each month, 5 each of 2 unique designs. I will showcase new products and techniques each month.

Please let me know if you are interested in one or more of these card nights (and of course, you are welcome to sign up for all of them!).

I look forward to hearing from you! Space is limited, so save your spot today. Please feel free to invite a friend and sign up together!

Happy Stamping!

Sept. 6th

2011-09-10T11:35:00.000-07:00

It's Sept. 10th today, but Sept. 6 was a very special day in our house. It was Steve's birthday, and although I wished him a HB on Facebook, I didn't do it on here. Too many social outlets to remember to post on, I think!! At least I remembered to say it to him face-to-face!!

We had a good day that day, even though it was overshadowed by the first day of school. That was always a bit of a drag for Steve growing up... having his birthday in the first week back to school, and often (like this year) on the actual day that school starts.

But, we had fun. It was just a half day, so we took the kids to Boston Pizza to celebrate school, and to celebrate Steve.

Then, later, we took the kids to Steve's parents' place and we joined up with another couple for some delicious Mexican food.

Here are a few memories from our day.

All ready to go for the first day. How can I possibly have 3 kids in school already? That went by so fast!

Elise listening to her first story in Kindergarten. She was so excited to be there!

Lunch at BP's, I love father-daughter pictures!

Olé!! Dinner with friends at Del Pollo Restaurant.

The food was delicious... we love Mexican food!

Happy Birthday, Steve. Glad I got to spend the day with you :)

More Norway

2011-09-04T21:59:00.001-07:00

** To see all my Norway posts at once, click HERE.

For dessert, after dinner tonight, the kids got to dig into some chocolates from Ellen Randi, my cousin in Norway. Inside the wrapper was a Norwegian kids' story. There are different ones in each chocolate, but the story we read tonight was the story of the 3 Billy Goats and the troll under the bridge. It was in Norwegian, so I read it and then translated for the kids every couple of sentences. Of course, it helps that I already know the story!! I can't speak or read Norwegian, except for a very small amount, but knowing the story, and having the slight advantage that my kids and husband know even less Norwegian than I do, made me look pretty smart!

Hearing and seeing the Norwegian language tonight made me want to share a bit more from my trip last month.

I posted about Preikestolen, and now I want to share about our amazing cruise along the Lysefjord a couple days after the hike. My mom and aunt didn't hike with me, just my cousins and their kids did. While we were off hiking, my mom and aunt were spending time visiting their cousins. So, this cruise was very special because they got to see the wonders of the fjord that I had told them a bit about.

We are ready!

The view was spectacular, even before we set sail!

Rocks straight up to the sky, and below the water they go straight down. The boat got so close to the rocks that we could almost reach out and touch the wall.

Preikestolen from below! I cannot believe that I was up that high!!

Sisters... enjoying the peaceful scenery.

An old schoolhouse along the fjord that was in operation until the early 1900s.

Abandoned farms along the steep hills of the fjord. It is said that farmers used to tie ropes to their children when they would play outside so they didn't fall down the steep hills and into the deep chilly waters.

I don't know if I could get used to the isolation, especially in the wintertime, of living in a place like this. But, the gorgeous scenes you would wake up to every morning might just make it worthwhile! Most of these places are abandoned, except for some tourist activity in the summer months.

It took my breath away.

A few years ago, the government took this little village over and built a power station. Behind this white building is a wooden staircase that reaches up to the top of the mountain. It is 4,444 steps and is the longest wooden staircase in the world. Plus, it is open to the public! The brochure says that it is an ideal day trip... pack a picnic and head up to the top. Ok... after you!!

This is Kjerag, the highest peak along the Lysefjord. A popular place for base jumping. The captain stopped our boat for about 20 minutes so we could watch the jumpers. Amazing! I couldn't do it.... I get sick to my stomach just thinking about jumping off of that cliff. If you see the waterfall in the photo - that's where the jumpers were starting from on this day.

All the jumps we saw were safe ones - thank goodness! Over the course of 15 years, and 30,000 jumps, there have been 9 deaths. Even one is too many, however, it seems like for such an extreme sport, that is pretty low.

And, the famous Kjeragbolten... a huge bolder stuck between two walls of rock. My question is, "When will this fall?" But it's been there for ages, and people love to climb up to the top, and out onto the bolder. I Googled it to share some info and I came across this travel blog... Some great photos on this post, so check it out! Martin's Travel Blog. Perhaps on my next visit to Norway I will have a chance to tackle Kjerag, and if I am feeling brave on that day, I might even step out onto the bolder. But, don't hold your breath for a picture of me on this thing... I have issues with heights! Plus, the next time I go to Norway I will have my kids along, and there is not a chance that I am going to let them go out on that rock!

Once the boat docked, we traveled up this windy road. 27 hairpin turns, and random sheep all along the way, so watch out! My aunt did an amazing job of driving this scary road - some of the turns were inside tunnels, and the road is only wide enough for one car at a time, except for little pull outs, and fancy maneuvering.... She got us safely to the top, where we enjoyed some Daim ice-cream and a strong cup of Norwegian coffee. What a great day!

The view of Lysebotn from the top.

And finally, here are some very cooperative sheep. It still makes me laugh when I think of these 3 running toward us, and then stopping in perfect formation, almost begging for us to take their picture. Maybe you had to be there, but it was a memorable moment. My kids sure enjoyed seeing this picture when I got home, anyway!!

Cards with Mom

2011-09-04T05:16:00.001-07:00

While I was in Victoria, I had the fun of a stamping day with my mom. Elise joined us for awhile, and we did lots of creating. The boys had more fun outside with the chickens :)

I made the cards below, plus, we made more of my Open House cards since I had extra pieces already cut for those. There were enough pieces left over for us to each make two of each design.

I love this new Sunflower stamp. Definitely one of my favourites from the new catalogue! I got the colour by using markers directly onto the stamp and then "huffing" on it before I stamped the image to paper. (huffing is breathing on the stamp. Elise had this down pat! I wish I had taken a little video of her breathing on the stamps - so priceless!)

Another Sunflower card:

The next two cards are from another great new set: Zoo Review. I love animals, so this set jumped out at me right away. Next time I use this set I will colour with blender pens or aqua painters, but these ones were made with just markers.

Victoria & Goodbye Summer

2011-09-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

School starts in 4 days. I'm ready! The kids are ready, too! Elise can't wait to get started in Kindergarten, and the boys are eager to see their friends again.

So... we had one last hurrah before heading back to routine. We took a trip over to Victoria. Time with friends, a little touristy stuff, a visit with my Granny in the care home.... it was a great week! Plus, my parents have acreage, so there was always lots for the kids to do to keep busy!

Here are a few of the highlights from the week.

Family Time...

My kids with their Great Granny.

Some fun with different features on my camera... black and white and some blur.

Building Time...

The kids and Steve and I (mostly Steve and the kids :) have been working on a play fort in the back forty of my parents' place. I was on cougar and bear alert because there have been sightings of both in the area this summer.

Friend Time...

We got together with Tricia and the boys at a park in Sidney for a couple hours to play. Later in the weekend, we also hooked up with Todd's old school buddy that has moved over to the Island. That was a lot of fun, too. I don't have pics to share from that. (yes, of course I TOOK pictures, but I am not going to post them :)

Game Time...

So many games of Chinese Checkers and Battleship took place over the week that I lost count! The kids really loved playing these games, so I am going to have to add them to a shopping list at some point! We have lots of games, but these 2 games are not ones we own.

Scott took this black and white. I just love how he took it from a different perspective.

Fun Time...

After visiting Granny, we went to the Beacon Hill Drive-In for ice cream. Yikes! These bowls were HUGE... way too much for one kid. They didn't need to eat lunch that day :)

Farm Time...

I posted a few weeks ago about my dad's chickens. The kids had fun feeding them, and watching them... it was also an excuse to not finish their dinner, "But mommm, Papa said the chickens would really like to have some of my dinner!" Ok, whatever Papa says!

This was so cute. We were walking up the driveway with my dad and he was showing me his plum tree. Just as he was saying, "It didn't even give me one lousy plum..." We both spotted it! A beautiful, ripe, delicious yellow plum! Further searching yielded 2 more plums from this tree, and one from another tree. Enough plums for each of the kids and Papa!!

E is such a poser. This was take 5 of her standing beside this sunflower. I just wanted to show the height of the flower, and she had to show off a bit! Dad's sunflowers were a bit short this year because they were all volunteers. I love sunflowers.

Tractor driving lessons with Papa. Out of all the kids, Elise was the only one that wanted to steer the tractor. The boys just wanted to go along for the ride. After her turn was done, she said, "I am such a good driver, I didn't even hit any of the cars in the driveway." Well, I hope not!

On Sunday afternoon, we went to the Beacon Hill Petting Farm after church for a little bit. Elise has been there before, but it was the first time for the boys. They instantly fell in love with all the little pygmy goats!

Bed Time...

The sunsets in Victoria were just glorious. Night after night of beautiful skies. I couldn't believe how there was so much colour every night, but each night was different. Here are pics from 2 different nights.

Vivid pinks and purples one night...

And bright orange on another night that bounced off the water of the Bay and made a beautiful backdrop for the silhouettes.

Open House cards

2011-09-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

My lack of blogging over the last week or so is not because I have nothing to blog about. On the contrary - it is because I have been busy creating bloggable moments!!

Last week, I had my SU! Open House, and it was a great time. Many ladies came out and we had lots of laughs. There is something about a group of ladies getting together and letting their creative juices flow. I love it!

Here are the 2 cards we made that night.

This card uses the brand new Flirtatious line which includes everything from stamps to paper to fabric and embellishments.

Flirtatious paper 122360
Melon Mambo cardstock 115320
Thank you Kindly set 111700
1/2 inch Scallop Dots Ribbon 122985

The second card makes use of the current popular trend of pennants. I love it that SU! has come out with a 2-step pennant banner punch. I think I'm going to be using this one a lot!!

Petite Pennants Builder Punch 122361
Paisley Petals Paper 122367
Flower Brads Subtles collection 119732

Preikestolen, Norway

2011-08-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more pictures from my adventures in Norway. I went hiking with some of my cousins to a very popular spot - Preikestolen. It is a 604m high mountain above the Lysefjord. I am still in awe that I actually went out on its surface at the top. I don't like heights.

We stopped for a picture before we started our trek because I knew that in a few minutes I would be sweating like crazy. Don't we all still look so happy here?!

There were endless rocks to climb up... and then down on the way back!

Then 3 or 4 times on the trail, there were these wooden walkways over the marsh. This is my cousin, Roald.

Almost there... the view was already breathtaking and I wasn't even at the top yet!

With my cousin, Siren... thumbs up that we made it to the top!

This was so hard to do. I know I have a big smile on my face, but I could hardly look over the edge. Such a long way down....

No matter which way we looked when we were up there, we found incredible views.

About a week before this, I broke my toe (well, how can you really know a toe is broken.. it went all shades of purple and hurt like crazy to put pressure on. Even putting these shoes on hurt. One the way up this hike, I curled the toes of my right foot so my pinky didn't have any pressure on it. If it wasn't broken, I'd be surprised!) so I was happy to get these feet to the top. But I knew that I wouldn't have this kind of opportunity again (at least not for a long time... 3 weeks in Europe without kids? I couldn't believe this trip happened in the first place! My husband is so great!) and that's why I didn't want to say no just for a baby toe!

Left - Andreas... Right - me :)

It blows me away that every year more than 120,000 people hike this trail to the top, and nobody has fallen off. (Except for base jumping, which more often happens down the fjord a ways, but has taken place at Preikestolen, too). I have seen much lesser trails roped off in Canada because they think it's too dangerous.

This doesn't look too bad, eh? Well, I couldn't look down sitting like this. We were on the edge, that you can see in the following picture.

For the picture above, Siren stood here (see below) and zoomed across to the pulpit where we were sitting. That was scarier than looking over the edge for me.

Again, this is my cousin, Roald. I tried to talk him out of this, but he wouldn't listen ;) Someone said I sounded like a mother! Hahaha... well, I am a mother, and if I ever see my kids doing something like this, I won't be too happy! But I did feel slightly better with Terje close by him.

I highly recommend this hike... if you live in the area, or not, it is worth it!

Open House - Wednesday

2011-08-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that my Open House is this Wednesday evening from 7 - 9:30.

Come on out and browse the new catalogue*

Last chance to get Summer mini catalogue products

*(catalogues will be available for $10,
or free with purchase of $25 or more.
1 catalogue per person).

Free make and takes

Retired products for sale

Coffee and snacks

Bring a friend!

Email me if you need directions to my house

Hope to see you then!

My Great-Aunt is a scrapbooker...

2011-08-20T22:36:00.000-07:00

While we were in Norway, I was delighted to discover that my great-aunt (my Morfar's sister) is a scrapbooker. She proudly showed the books that she has put together, some with photos and journaling, and some with saved goodies like newspaper clippings and other special memories. It was so fun to go through these and see her creativity, and the things that have meant enough to her to save over the years, and share with others.

Then, we went for a walk, and I took this picture of my great-aunt, my mom and my aunt... and, do you know my first thought? "I can't wait to scrapbook this photo!"

Some crafty ladies (and guys :) in Norway...

2011-08-20T22:26:00.000-07:00

One of the things my aunt mentioned before we headed off to Norway was that she wanted to get into cardmaking. And, that others there are into scrapbooking. So... I made sure to save some room in my suitcase for some stamps and ink to take along for gifts. We had an evening of creating cards with all the girls, and the boys thought it looked like so much fun that they even jumped into make some!

Look how many got made!!

Trip of a lifetime...

2011-08-19T11:42:00.000-07:00

I am home. My mom and I had such an amazing trip to Norway, and we are safely home again now. Thanks mom, for a great trip! Tusen Takk to all the people who we met and stayed with and ate with and laughed with in Norway. Thank you so much for making our trip one to remember for always.

Over the next while, I will post pictures and stories from our trip. I took 2361 pictures, so I promise I won't show them all, but I will share some of them!!

We met so many great people, and so many relatives. I think I am possibly related to half of Norway!! Even just while we were standing in the square shopping, we met so many people that were related to us. That was such a different experience. We were introduced to them by another cousin who was with us at the time. She would say, "Oh, here's a cousin of yours" or "this is your grandma's first cousin" etc. I met my uncle for the first time on this trip, and saw many people who have visited us in Canada before. We met 1st, 2nd and 3rd cousins all once or twice removed, as well as great aunts and uncles that I've never met before, and the list goes on!

Everyone was so welcoming, and we felt the hospitality and generosity of everyone constantly. The food was amazing, the sights were unbelievable and the coffee pot never rested!

Food... amazing. This was a welcome cake that my aunt made. It is covered in marzipan, which I happen to love!!

Yummmm.... these little guys were at our welcome party, too!

This was from our early morning flight between Norway and Holland. Loved it that I got a window seat!

Fresh seafood was in abundance. I loved it!

A dip in the North Sea... brrrr... but very refreshing on a hot day, and I got over the coldness of the water pretty quickly.

More pictures to come - thanks for stopping by! Hope you have all been having a great summer so far!

Birdie Thanks

2011-08-18T10:53:00.000-07:00

By the time this card posts, (this is the last of my scheduled posts) I should be home again from Norway... so, this is a special "Thank you so much" card dedicated to the great hospitality of my family in Norway.

Stay tuned for my pictures (I'm sure there will be many!) and posts about my trip to Norway.... once I'm over jet lag :)

Happy Anniversary!

2011-08-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

It was the Summer of '69.......

More than just Bryan Adams can sing about that great summer, and the history made in the summer of '69. My mom and dad tied the knot August 16th of that year, and it was a strong knot that can't be broken.

Happy 42nd anniversary, Mom and Dad!

Later this year, Steve and I will celebrate our 10th anniversary, and when I asked him what we should do to celebrate, he jokingly said, "well, you're going to Norway with your mom!" I think that is more fittingly what my dad should say to my mom, because here we are, on the other side of the world, and he is at home without her on their anniversary - probably eating chicken noodle soup. Hope you're having a great day, dad. We'll see you soon!!

I know that some of these photos have appeared in my posts before, but I still love these snapshots of my parents together.

This is where it all began... the lighthouse at the end of the breakwater in Victoria - my dad proposed and she was speechless. So half an hour later, he asked again! hahah! I guess she thought she'd answered him. So she made sure she said "yes" out loud that time!!

August 16, 1969. So cute! They've hardly changed a bit!

Time for Tea.... ummm, make that coffee!!

2011-08-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

I made up a few of these cards, with the coffee/tea images on them. Norwegians are big coffee drinkers, so I thought they would get a kick out of these. I am sure I will have some coffee stories to share when I get home from my trip in a few days.

Butterfly Wings

2011-08-12T10:08:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's nice to be able to sit down and make a card without too much thought. This was one of those cards. The paper did the work for me. I had some leftover butterfly cutouts from by Big Shot and I just added them (with the red one popped off the page with dimensionals) on top of decorative paper. Simple, but not boring.

New Purse

2011-08-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

Before I left for Norway, I wanted to make a new purse to take along. It needed to be big enough to fit my camera, wallet, some paperwork (tickets/passport, etc) and a book, as well as a light sweater. It also couldn't be too big, because otherwise I might not be allowed that plus a carry on bag!!

The pattern that I (loosely) used can be seen HERE. I say "loosely" because who am I kidding? I don't think I've ever followed a pattern from start to finish... I guess I get sidetracked, or make a mistake and just try to fix it without having to seam rip... Or I don't cut my fabric quite right, so it ends up being a modification. Another reason I often don't follow patterns is that there are sometimes just too many words to read. I like following the pictures!! But, I have to say I quite like how my bag turned out, and perhaps I should just say I got the idea from this site. My dimensions are totally different, but if you want to make a bag like this, I recommend you follow this gal's pattern because she put a lot of work into the tutorial, and isn't it nice that she shared her pattern, free, online for everyone to enjoy!? Thanks for sharing :)

I got my new goodies from Stampin' Up! just in time before I left, and was able to sew my purse. The SU! fabric, called Timeless Portrait, was almost enough to make the whole purse, but because of the direction of the design in one pattern, I had to add a couple strips of a black I had on hand. So, the following pics are the SU! fabric.

Here's the finished purse....

Bzzzzzzz!

2011-08-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Bees are really in right now. Sounds funny, I know... but they are. They are popular on children's clothing (that's REALLY odd to me, because bees hurt people) home decor, scrapbook pages, stamp sets, purses, etc. They are very striking to look at, but at the same time, when they decide to strike, look out!

Already this summer, a friend of ours got attacked by bees and ended up with 14 stings. The poor guy is going to have a phobia for the rest of his life.

But, back to the image of bees. There is something about black and yellow together that just appeals. here are some bees that I've just left as line art, but they still intrigue me.

I popped a couple cut out bees off the card in this next one. Thought it gave them an illusion of movement. Don't read too much into the red colouring... these are just your regular bees :)

Nice and Neutral

2011-08-07T10:11:00.000-07:00

Bees, birds and bird cages, along with a vintage feel... these are things that you will find in many crafting lines right now. I love the vintage sets that Stampin' Up! has out right now, and I am the proud owner of several of them, including the set that this card was made from:

Nature Walk (w-116998, c-120495)

Black and White and bling all over

2011-08-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Not quite sure how I feel about these next 2 cards. I really liked the idea of these black motif rub-ons when I bought them, but I found them harder to use than I thought I would. I think they are kind of overpowering, but I guess I'll show the good the bad and the ugly!

Whether I'm sold on the rub-on on this card, or not, I do like the black, white and red combination.

Simple Lines

2011-08-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

I love it when a stamp can stand alone. This is one of my favourite stamps of all time. It is from the set Concerto, and it was the very first stamp set I bought from Stampin' Up!. It was retired several years ago. I love that I can stamp it in black and leave it alone, or I can colour it in and give it a whole new look, but that isn't necessary because it is such a strong stamp all on its own.

Birdie Dreams

2011-08-01T08:30:00.000-07:00

I used some rub-ons that I had in my stash, as well as some retired patterned paper and ribbon for today's card.

Fun with Felt Flowers

2011-07-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

These felt flowers are retired, but you can get a similar look with some of the current Stampin' Up! products, or maybe you have some of the old flowers on hand, still. They add a nice touch to a simple card.

A Happy Little Bird

2011-07-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

Norway Bound...

2011-07-27T16:41:00.000-07:00

Today, (right as this posts, actually, because I have it scheduled) I am flying with my mom to Norway. Am I excited? Oh, yes! Just a little!! Actually, WAY more than just a little. I have waited a long time for this. My mom was born in Norway, and she moved to Canada with her family when she was a young girl. I am looking forward to meeting my uncle for the very first time, as well as seeing many other special people.

Thanks to my awesome husband who encouraged me to go! Thanks for staying with the kids so I could have this special time with my mom. I will miss you all very much, hope you have lots of fun without me! See you in three weeks!

I made a travel journal for my mom... hope she likes it. I had a lot of fun making it.

The front is just covered in patterned paper, then I made a little collage of travel papers and newsprint paper, as well as some rub-ons. Plus, I made 2 little Norwegian flags to glue on.

On the coils I attached little travel charms I found at a LSS.

It has lined paper on the inside - perfect for my mama who loves to journal every single day!

I will be back on the 17th of August. I have some other posts scheduled between now and then, but my trip pics will have to wait until then. I doubt I will be able to make posts while I'm overseas. Hope you are all having an awesome summer - thanks for stopping by :)

Fun with my Camera

2011-07-26T16:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we picked up some dinner and went to the school playground and let the kids play for a bit. I took out my camera and had some fun taking shots around the playground. There are a couple flower/planter beds close to the playground and there were some gorgeous lilies growing there.

There is also a cool feature on this camera that automatically focuses on the main item in the middle of the picture and blurs the rest. I had fun with that, too.

OPEN HOUSE

2011-07-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

You are invited to my
Stampin' Up! Open House....

Wednesday, August 24th from 7 - 9:30pm.

Bring a friend.
Come make a card or 2.
Browse the new catalogue.
Peruse my retired merchandise and pick up a great deal!
It'll be a great time of stamping and fun...
Hope to see you then.

Please RSVP so I know how many are coming.
Let me know if you need directions.

Thoughts and Prayers for Norway

2011-07-23T17:57:00.000-07:00

It was with shock and horror that I followed the news stories that came out of Norway yesterday. So many innocent people killed. The hatred of one man affecting the entire nation, the entire world. This is a small nation known for peace and an easy going nature. I love this country, and I haven't even been there... yet.

I remember a report I did in Elementary school. I felt such a strong connection to the country where my mom had been born. I traced the map of the country shaped like a spoon, and talked about fish and potatoes.

May God bless Norway as this country rebuilds a peaceful atmosphere. It will take love, not retaliation, hatred or fear. The following is a borrowed status from my cousin's facebook page:

A young AUF member, in an interview on CNN was asked if
they now wanted to fight terror.
Her response was:
"If one man can show this much hate,
think how much love we can show together."

1 John 4:18
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear,
because fear involves punishment,
and the one who fears is not perfected in love.

As my mom and I head to Norway next week, I am sure it will be a somber mood that greets us. But they will not be defeated by this. They will rise strong. The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it. God is in control. Norway is known for it's peacemaking and the Bible says, "Blessed are the peacemakers."

Pear-fect!

2011-07-23T16:36:00.000-07:00

A couple more cards from the "Faith in Nature" set.

This is what a five-year-old looks like!!

2011-07-22T09:35:00.000-07:00

Stamping Fun!

2011-07-20T18:28:00.001-07:00

I've been making cards to give as gifts when I go on holidays with my mom next week. Over the time that I am away, I will post a few of the cards.

There is a fun new set offered in the new Idea Book and Catalogue (as a hostess set) called Faith in Nature. I loved it the second I saw it. Here is one of the first cards I made with it. The patterned paper is retired, and the ink is black. Simple card, but the layers and dimensionals make it pop.

FIVE

2011-07-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

Five years seems like a long time. But it's not. Not when you see time racing away from you in the form of a little girl growing up far too quickly. Right before our eyes, and in the blink of an eye. One day she was born, and the next day she is five years old. How does that happen?

She is one of a kind, precious and beautiful. She loves Jesus. She speaks her mind and she loves to snuggle. She is a determined little girl, who, at barely 2 years old decided she was done with pull ups and said, "I'm not wearing those anymore." In a day she was potty trained - she does most things with that same determination. Like the day she wanted to ride a bike - she just got on the bike and did it.

You'll go places, kid, because you are fearless, and you march to the beat of your own drum (or harmonica!) and you don't make decisions based on what others think of you. I like that about you. Don't ever change!

See this outfit? She picked it herself... and it totally works for her!

She is also kindhearted and sweet. But if you ever tell her that, she might just make a pirate face and say, "ARRRR!!" so, maybe keep that to yourself! But her heart shows through to her friends and when she is around little animals.

We can dress her up, but.... you know the rest! Even under fancy clothes, she will always be herself, just waiting to get home to change into something that better shows her personality.

She loves the colour blue.

In just a few short weeks, we get to share her with the school community... bitter-sweet, for sure. It means she's growing up too fast, but it also means she gets to explore her world and grow more into the person God created her to be.

Elise May, we love you and cherish you. Happy Birthday sweetheart!

Summertime

2011-07-16T23:43:00.000-07:00

Whether the weather is telling us it's summertime, or not, the time off and laid back pace of each day clearly says "Summer!"

Earlier this week, my sister and her family came for a visit. We had so much fun together, but the time went too quickly. We managed to pack in quite a bit to our few days together. Waterpark, Elise's b-day party, adventures on the skytrain and a visit to Science World. In between all that were Popsicles, bouncing on the tramp, movies, coffee (lots of coffee!) and shared meals. Thanks for a great visit, Louise and Miles. So great to see your growing family.

Here are a few pics from the week.

My sister is the best at braiding hair... she did E's hair up really cute, right off the bat when they arrived. Louise has 4 boys, so she wowed her husband with her skills - he hadn't ever seen what Louise could do with long hair!!

Liam and Elise - best buds!

The 3 boys that are the same (within 11 months) age.

A sister is a forever friend.

The whole crew at the waterpark - enjoying pizza and cupcakes for Elise's 5th birthday.

On our way into the big city (Vancouver :) for a day at Science World.

We made it there, and back - no problem!! This pic below is of our way home, and we let 3 trains go by before we decided to split up and squish on. The trains were packed.... but it was afternoon rush hour. This was after a few stops and many people had already gotten off. Before this pic, I couldn't even see Louise's family - just knew they were on the same train because Cole was talking to everyone!! We all made home safe and sound!

All the kids posing for Grammie on the play fort!

Come back soon!!

$119 Starter Kit and Gift

2011-07-12T08:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of becoming a Stampin' Up! demonstrator? Now is a great time to start! The products offered by this company are second-to-none, and the people you will meet along the way are icing on the cake!

Join as a "hobby" demonstrator, and do the occasional order to earn money to pay for your stamping habit! Or, turn it into a business by doing one or two workshops every week or month, or by running classes and stampers clubs.

When you join my team, you will have all the coaching you need. Check it out on my website today, and feel free to ask me your questions!

STARTER KIT DEAL

Included in this great deal are:

During July, you can join the Stampin' Up! family as a demonstrator for only $119! This limited time Starter Kit—valued at $205—comes with the following high-quality products:

Easy Events Clear-Mount Set*
Pennant Parade Wood-Mount Set*
Basic Black Classic Stampin' Pad
Old Olive Classic Stampin' Pad
Pumpkin Pie Classic Stampin' Pad
Real Red Classic Stampin' Pad
Brights 8-1/2" x 11" Assorted Card Stock
Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper*
Chocolate Chip 1/2" Scallop Dots Ribbon*
Note Cards (20)
Clear-Mount Block C
Blender Pen (1)
SNAIL Adhesive
Business supplies

*Brand new to the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalogue!

Victoria with Scott

2011-07-09T11:16:00.000-07:00

School's Out For Summer!!!

This is a bitter-sweet time for us... It's Elise's last summer before she starts school full time. The boys approach summer totally differently from each other. Todd is an easy-going kid, so he just goes with the flow, but he was ready for summer to start so he could have a break from school work. Scott, on the other hand, started missing school before school was even over. He just starts thinking about 2 long months without seeing his friends every day and his structured school work, and he gets melancholy. I know that's hard for some people to grasp, but that's my boy!!!

I decided to break up the week for him by taking him to Victoria for a few days to spend some time just with me, and with my parents. We got together with some of my cousins, and a few friends, too, but mainly we just hung out at home with the berries and the chickens!!

Remember my old Canon that I talked about in my last post? Well, I let him use it for the week. He LOVED it! I have to load his pics still, but from what I could see, he did a great job!

Here are a few pics from our little getaway. We were gone for 3 nights.

On the ferry:

Taking pictures of everything... He wrote in his journal while we were gone and I plan to print some of the pics he took and let him add those beside the pictures he drew. His journal entries were adorable, but I'll save those for another post.

What a treat! We saw whales on our way over. The captain made an announcement that whales would come into view in the next couple minutes and we made it out to the right deck in time to get a couple shots. They were quite far away, so I zoomed in as far as I could, then cropped, so it's a bit blurry, but you can see what it is. This is with my new camera, and it's a thousand times better than what I would have captured at that distance with my old one.

My dad got chickens... Scott spent a lot of time in the chicken coop this week, and made some new friends, as well!

We went to the beach twice while in Victoria. The first time it was beautiful and sunny, the second time, cold and windy! Here's Scott and Island View Beach enjoying the water and sand.

One of the things Victoria is famous for... Fisgard Lighthouse. I spent an afternoon with my cousins at Esquimalt Lagoon and took this from where we were sitting across the water from the lighthouse. One of these days, I'd like to take the kids to Fort Rodd Hill and do a proper tour of the grounds with them, not just showing them the lighthouse from the distance!

It was a great mini-vacation, and Scott had a wonderful time - that was the whole point! Thanks, mom and dad, for letting us just come and hang out for a few days. (with almost no notice!!)

New Camera

2011-06-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

I got a new camera! I am having fun experimenting with different settings, but it's a different kind than my last camera, so there are new functions, etc, and I will have to spend more time reading the manual before my photos are awesome. Another thing that is different is the way the photos are organized. Not a bad system, but very different than my Canon.

My new baby is a Fujifilm. 10X zoom, 12mp. And... it's red! (That was just an added bonus). We bought it from London Drugs, and there were 2 strong reasons that we went for this make and model. First, because of its great history in the camera film industry, Fujifilm brand pays special attention to the colour of images. I know colours can be changed, edited and tweaked in photo editing software programs, but why not just get a camera that shows the right colours from the beginning?! Secondly, there is a 2 year warranty. Since we needed our warranty on my Canon about 6 months in, I figure that a 2 year warranty is a pretty great thing.

Why did I get a new camera?

- My Canon is almost 5 years old, and while it still takes fine pictures, I am finding that it is just eating through batteries, and they need to be changed at an alarming rate.
- My Canon is a 6mp, 4X zoom, and I would love to have the option to take macro pictures.

Why didn't I go for an SLR?

I love having my camera close by in my purse. I use my camera for my watch and as a notebook (when I see something that I want to remember, I take a picture of it, rather than writing it down. I even do this sometimes with voice clips in the video setting)

Another reason I went for small is: I don't have any desire to be a professional photographer. I have relatives that are professionals, as well as several friends that are semi-pro, and amateur photogs. If I need professional portraits, then I can call on them! I appreciate the work they do, and I am not sure that I am cut out for it, even though I love taking pictures. I take a lot of photos, but they are for fun and personal use. I would also be overwhelmed with how much organization it would take to keep everyone's photos in order and edited and delivered by a deadline.

So... kudos to the pros! I admire your skills! If you would ever like a reference to a photographer, I would be happy to give you one! We've had photos done by a few different people, in a variety of price ranges and styles, and depending on what you are looking for in your pictures, I guarantee that there is someone out there that can help you out!! Let me know :)

But, back to my camera. Here are a few pictures of it. (I took these with the Canon :)

Almost Done

2011-06-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

The school year is quickly coming to a close, and the last couple weeks have been a blur of activity. I was up late last night finishing a sewing project for one of Todd's teachers (I'll post another day) and I delivered the gift this morning.

One week ago, there was a special field trip for the grade 1s... they only had to go out to the field and parking lot. A mobile petting zoo came to visit, and the kids got to pet bunnies and ducklings, as well as some other animals. Here's Todd with a turkey, which was just on show!!

All the kids in grade one (60 in all) got to have a pony ride, as well. The farm ladies brought both a pony and a small horse. Todd got to ride the horse and was pleased as punch! I got some good shots of the day, and am looking forward to scrapbooking these pictures!

Tomorrow is the last school day, and I will be playing the piano at the closing assembly. The it's on to summer fun! I just hope the sun will show up soon. Today we've had about 2 minutes of sun, and then a bunch of wind and rain. Oh well, I bet it makes it easier for the kids to pay attention during the last week of school if the weather is not perfect!

Final club cards

2011-06-21T23:11:00.000-07:00

This week was the final time my stampers club met. Such a fun group of ladies... and they want to go again in September, so that is great! If you want to join these fun gals, please let me know, there is room for 3 more people because this group wasn't completely full.

It was my turn to make the snacks. I had come across these breast cancer ribbon cupcake holders, so that was an easy snack decision for me. I made the flags using the "Canadian Pride" stamp from the Summer Mini catalogue.

This stamp set, "Strength and Hope" is the breast cancer research fundraiser that Stampin' Up! has going on right now. $2 from every purchase of "Strength and Hope" whether it's wood mount, clear mount or digital download, will go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Check out my website for more details, or to order this set!

The technique we use on this card is called "double embossing". A technique that combines a Big Shot embossing folder with heat embossing.

What a Hoot!!

2011-06-21T23:03:00.000-07:00

We did 2 cards for my club this month. The first one was a case of a card by Mary Rager, another Stampin' Up! Demonstrator. Thanks, Mary, for this adorable card idea!

Here's the one we made last night...

This card was so fun and easy to make. We used 3 sizes of circle punches, the heart punch, scallop punch and the bird punch. As well, we used the top note die and the Big Shot machine. To finish it off, we just added a little white on the eyes for light spots.

Bow Bag

2011-06-13T21:10:00.000-07:00

While my family was out watching the game tonight, I sat at my sewing machine and finished this bag. I was also watching The Secret Garden, but every 10 minutes, or so, I would run to my computer to check the score. I quickly realized that it is a blessing that Vancouver will have the home ice advantage for game 7.

** Note: if you are in my stampers club, the piano recital that I changed our club night for was moved to tomorrow. Since this only just happened because of the need for game 6, (the teacher figured the turn-out would be low when the Stanley Cup was on the line!) I didn't want to reschedule our club, yet again, to bring it back to the original night. Plus, I was pretty sure that there were at least 2 or 3 of you that would want to be watching the game :) So, we'll meet on the 20th as planned. Thanks for being so flexible! See you next week.

The bag will be a gift for one of my son's grade one teachers. I have to make one more because he has 2 teachers. Not sure if I will do it exactly the same, but I gotta say, I'm pretty proud of how this turned out. There wasn't a pattern, and everything was just eyeballed. I cut straight, of course, because I have a rotary cutter, but the size was by eye. Then, I measured it after it was sewn together so I could make the lining the right size. This bow reminds me of ones my sister and I used to make when we were young. Then we'd put them on hair elastics and wear them in our ponytails. I guess what goes around comes around because they're back in style. And super-duper easy to make, so that was bonus! The bag measures 12.5" X 15", so it's only good for carrying around smallish things, but I figure the teachers could take marking home in them, or bring their lunch to school in these. I'm sure they will find a use for them!

Well... that was awkward!

2011-06-13T21:02:00.000-07:00

But, we've still got game 7...

A little Tom Thomson

2011-06-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

Over the years, I have collected different calendars with paintings by famous artists. When I was teaching, these often became inexpensive teaching tools for elementary art classes. But most of the time, it's just because I like them! Right now, I have a calendar of paintings by the Canadian Legend Tom Thomson.

Here is the painting I got to appreciate in May: Marguerites, Wood Lilies and Vetch, 1916

And this one (which just so happens to perfectly match the blue I painted my bathroom wall a couple months ago) is what we are enjoying right now for the month of June: Summer Day, 1915

More Birdie Blocks

2011-06-08T22:08:00.000-07:00

I am behind on my Block of the Month project, but I did recently finish up my April block. The patterns are here, at Little Miss Shabby, and it has been a really fun project to do.

I like the pattern for April, and thought I would keep the eggs on the trees subtle by embroidering them in white, but it ended up being a harsh contrast between that and the dark green. Oh well, I am not doing it over! It is done!

And the four blocks I've completed... I still think the first block I did, with the snowman, is my favourite. I still need to decide on what colour to put as the 2" border around each of the blocks. I think that needs to be a lighter shade. Maybe something along the lines of the beige in there? But I'm still a few months away from that! I am pretty sure that I will back it with denim.

Get 'em While they last!

2011-06-01T07:32:00.001-07:00

It is that time of year again... the Last Chance Lists are posted on the Stampin' Up! website.

Check out the links below and "get 'em while you can!" The accessories are "While supplies last" but the stamp sets are available until the last day of June.

Shop online, or give me a shout for what you'd like.

My Website.

Last Chance Stamps - wood mount

Clear Mount

Last Chance Accessories

Last Chance Decor Elements

Discounted Products

Sentimental Journey

2011-05-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

In the last mini catalogue, there was a set called Sentimental Journey. I hope it makes it into the next Idea Book and Catalogue, because I am having a lot of fun playing with it.

But, even if you use a different stamp set - one that you have on hand, or one from the current Stampin' Up! product catalogues, these layouts are great for masculine cards, or for anytime you need to whip up a quick card - nothing too difficult about these designs. Most of the images have been inked and then highlighted on the edges with a contrasting marker. You can also get this effect with the "Rock 'n Roll" technique where you ink it in one colour and then roll the edges in a darker colour. I had my markers handy, so I just used them.

Running for Water

2011-05-29T20:47:00.001-07:00

Today was the 4th annual Run For Water in our city, and I ran it with my boys (well, we 3 ran it, but not really "together"!) This race raises money for clean water in Ethiopia, and there were 2814 runners participating today in four different distances (5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon and Marathon) and over $200,000 raised! Amazing!

Both the winner of the 1/2 Marathon and the winner of the full Marathon were running for their first time at that distance, and won. I thought that was pretty cool!

Our race clothes laid out last night:

The three of us started off together, but I had told the boys that if they stuck together, they did not have to wait for me. They were happy about that, and just went for it!!

The boys left me at the starting line, and I only had sight of them until the first bend in the road about 3/4 of a km into the run. Then I didn't see them again until after the race. They finished 8 minutes ahead of me!

Off to a good start......

Todd placed 9th in his age category! Scott finished at the same time as him, but was in the 8-12 year old category, so it was a bit more difficult to place in the top 10! So proud of my boys.

With some friends... their oldest daughter placed 6th in her age category for the 5K, and their oldest son placed 2nd overall in the 10K, which put him first in his age category. These kids are amazing (there are 6 of them!) and they all ran, including their parents!! Elise is proudly holding a medal in this pic, but she just borrowed it for the photo - didn't want to be left out just because she didn't race!!!

The race day events were great, too. Bouncy castles, slides, food, free Starbucks coffee, and lots of music. A really well-planned, and well-attended community event, with global focus.

My boys really loved the food tent for runners. Water, fruit, power bars. I think they really just wanted to run the race so they could eat the food at the end!!! Oh, and Todd wanted a medal :) He said he is now going to collect medals!

What's New?

2011-05-25T22:41:00.000-07:00

In the past, I have mentioned the other business that my husband and I own. We are Independent Consultants with a company called Nikken, and although it has nothing to do with stamping, it is the reason I am able to stay at home and play with my stamps so much!! We enjoy a flexible, family-focused lifestyle, and I wouldn't want it any other way!

The reason I'm bringing this up right now is that we have recently started a new Facebook Page for our Nikken Business, and are excited to share it with you. If you want to see what it is about, click on the link below to find out! Or, ask away and I will be happy to answer any questions you have. This is a business that we are building internationally, and we have met amazing people from literally around the world. If you are looking for a business that has great products, the ability to set your own schedule, and gives amazing compensation, this might just be for you!

We love what we do!

Follow us on Facebook:
Nikken - The Freedom Team

Our Nikken Website:
Steve & Sarah Froese

Dreaming Big!

2011-05-23T21:53:00.000-07:00

These images are not from my home... unfortunately! I found them all on a Google image search of "Home Libraries". Head over to Google for these and many, many more images of Home Libraries.

Aren't these fabulous spaces? Oh, let the dreaming begin! I wouldn't know which book to choose first. I would be able to spend hours and hours with all these books. I have a friend that once said she would sooner lend out her car than her books. And, she wasn't kidding - not even a bit!

I'm just trying to figure out where I could fit even a small version of one of these lovely libraries into my home. I think that with my stamping space, and my sewing stuff (the sewing stuff is stored in the guest bedroom, and has become quite a stash over the last 2 years), and with 3 kids and a husband who all have hobbies of their own - my dream library will have to wait.

But, I can dream. And, as I read on someone's post yesterday:

"It doesn't cost any more to dream BIG
than it does to think small. "

So, I dream for a big library. In the meantime, I feel blessed that I have access to 2 great libraries - one at my church, and the public library down the road, plus my kids have a great library at their school, which has just been beautifully remodeled. I'll have to do a before and after post about that soon, too.

The pictures I've collected jumped out at me for various reasons.

I love the crispness of this library. And its sheer size. A wall of books, but not dusky and dim - bright and inviting!

This one looks very functional, but I think that it is perhaps book overkill. There must be a dozen or so books in there that could be donated to MCC so you could fit a photo on one of the shelves to break things up!

I like how the next one is decorated. This is appealing for a family because it is more of a multi-use room. There is a TV in there, although, who in their right mind would choose television over this gorgeous selection of literature?

This is a modern library, but I would be frustrated by those shelves. I have a few open ended shelves in my house and it really bothers me when books are not supported at the end of a shelf. But the fireplace is a nice cozy touch!

I think this one, with the curtain, would be most realistic for my house, I'm just not sure where it would go. Then you could use your space for formal gatherings, or pull the curtain open and be surrounded with books!

I am in awe of the multitude of books in this next photo, but I would feel claustrophobic in this space. Look how books are even stored underneath the shelves. This is not a book-lover, this is a hoarder - there are even books on the reading chair... now, what's the point of that?! But, I must give them credit because the books are very neatly displayed. I just don't believe for a minute that this person has read, or even browsed all of these books.

This next one would be considered a dream within a dream (have you seen the movie Inception?) To have a grand piano like this would just be fantastic. However, the chairs in this room would not invite me to sit in them to read a book. I would love the large windows on either side, but those chairs would be replaced with leather couches. Actually, the leather couches I already own would be quite perfect!

The colourful effect of these next books jumps out at me, but I think it must have been edited in photoshop, or the owner makes a hobby of searching out books for their spine colour, not their content. In which case, it is beautiful, but there are probably few books that he or she would like to read for real.

I saved this photo for last. Can you guess why? Look at the walls. Red walls in themselves make me happy. So, to have them behind all these books, that's brilliant!

What do you dream about?

Simple Butterflies

2011-05-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

Nothing overly difficult with these layouts, but I love this butterfly shape that I cut out with my Big Shot and Beautiful Butterflies Bigz Die.

This card uses the same die, as well as the lattice embossing folder. I really love using my Big Shot and all the different things it can do! Well worth the investment!

Watercolours

2011-05-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

Here are a few cards I did with my Watercolour Wonder Crayons and Aqua Painters. I embossed on watercolour paper with black embossing powder first, then coloured. The Stampin' Up! watercolour paper can hold quite a bit of water, and I've never had it pill on me. So, even if I don't like something, I can get it quite wet and mop the colour off and start again.

Man Cards

2011-05-20T20:08:00.000-07:00

I was going to say "Simple Man Cards" but that just didn't sound quite right, kind of like when you drive into a subdivision and there is a sign that says "Slow Children Playing." You know they are just trying to get you to slow down so you don't hit their kids, but still... it makes me laugh every time!

So... here are some really simple layouts... for masculine cards :)

Happy Victoria Day Weekend...

2011-05-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

It's Victoria Day long weekend, and the kids will celebrate by having the day off from school on Monday.

Today was GORGEOUS. Unfortunately, the weather people are calling for rain, rain, rain this long weekend. Here are a couple pictures I took today while Elise, Steve and I ate lunch outside.

We don't drink pop very often in our house... almost never. But we had these cute little bottles today for a treat.

I played with the saturation in Picasa...

And this was straight from my camera, using the "Colour Accent" setting. I didn't do any further editing.

And then the craziness started... I ended up soaked while I was just trying to catch a few rays. Oh well, it actually felt pretty good because I was already burning by that point.

What are your big plans for this weekend?

We're hoping to see my brother at some point while he is in town with the youth group that he is one of the leaders for. And then if we do get some pockets of sunshine, or at least pockets with no rain, we'll head outside for some fresh air.

Whatever you do, wherever you go and whomever you may see... have a great time, and be safe.

Stampers Club Cards

2011-05-17T14:35:00.000-07:00

Last night was my May Stampers Club, and, as usual, I had a great time with the ladies. Missed you K and L...

Here are the cards we made. First, a masculine card for Father's Day. This is a very simple layout, but I love the products we used. The espresso baker's twine and the Nautical Expeditions paper from the new Summer Mini Catalogue, along with Stampin' Write markers (colouring directly onto the rubber before stamping the image on paper)

The next card we made used the Baby Wipe technique (one of them, there are a few techniques that use Baby Wipes). Also, the Big Shot (love that machine!!) and Awash with Flowers - a great set that I have been wanting to use for awhile now, and finally the weather seems to be caught up to the month we're in (May flowers!) so it seemed appropriate. This card also shows many of the current "In Color" colours. Pear Pizzazz, Concord Crush, Peach Parfait, and in the reinker colours, Blushing Bride.

Here is a link to a tutorial on Splitcoaststamers. It is exactly the same way we did it last night, so I won't repost all the steps... just click this link and you'll be able to see it.

BABY WIPE TECHNIQUE

After the gals left, Steve came downstairs to join me for a snack. While we chatted, I fired off a few more cards. These will go towards the 200 I've been working on (see previous posts).

Masculine cards... repost

2011-05-17T14:30:00.000-07:00

Last week, there were a few days when Blogger was down. On one of those days, the post I had scheduled appeared, and then disappeared. I won't rewrite what I said (because I can't remember!!) But, I wanted to put the cards here again... Sorry for the repost :)

Just a few more...

2011-05-13T09:20:00.000-07:00

I have been volunteering at the kids' school a lot lately, teaching music to the kids, so they'll be ready to perform for the Parent Appreciation tea in June. The grade one classes will be singing "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and the grade twos will be singing "A Few of My Favourite Things." It is so much fun, and I love being where my children are (without having to be their teacher :)

So, it has been nice to have some pics of cards ready to show you, and I even got these posts pre-scheduled. So handy when the calendar starts filling up!! Next week is my club night, so I will have some fresh ideas to share with you.

All the cards over the last few days have been the most basic of designs, but I think sometimes we need simple, right? Especially when you are dealing with 200 cards. But, even so, I think with the ribbon and the gorgeous patterned papers (like this first one... love this paper, unfortunately, it is retired, but you can find many more papers in my online STORE, as well as discounted paper in the Clearance Rack - online orders only) make cards seem a bit more special.

I'm sure you've clued into one of my favourite punches at the moment... the Decorative Label Punch. This so versatile, and you can dress it up or dress it down. I love it that it has a generous size of punched area, so you can fit in many of our sentiment stamps, as well as a lot of the stamped images, too.

** Most of the papers used are retired, but if you would like help finding designer papers to create the same look as the cards I've made here, please ask!

Anniversary Cards

2011-05-10T09:12:00.000-07:00

Here are the anniversary cards I made for the same order I talked about in yesterday's post. These cards are very different from each other, but then again, people are all different, too. So I know the lady that writes in these cards will find the perfect people to go with each card!

A Bunch 'o Cards

2011-05-09T20:46:00.000-07:00

For the last couple years, I have made 200 cards/yr for one of the local churches in my area. They like to give out cards for birthdays, anniversaries and sympathy. Since cards are needed all through the year, I don't have to have all 200 completed in January. I just give them to the point person as I complete them and keep a tally until all 200 are done. I did another batch this week, and here are a few of the ones that I have ready to deliver.

These ones all use the brand spankin' new "Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer punch" from the Summer Mini Catalogue that was just released. I love this punch, it looks a bit daunting at first, but I caught on really quickly. Love this dainty, clean-cut flower. There is also a doily 3-step punch available.

Remember to check out the Clearance Rack frequently for great deals. Up to 60% off retail prices! Online orders only.

Creative Writing

2011-05-09T20:38:00.000-07:00

While I was waiting for Scott after school today, I saw some new artwork and writing displayed in the hallway. Here is a book report he did on "If you Give a Pig a Pancake." A funny little book that my kids love!

I know the spelling is not all there, but all the words that they have had on spelling tests are spelled correctly. I guess "characters" is not a grade 2 word!! And I love it that he does such neat work. He loves school, and he has the most amazing teacher this year!

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:55:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to my mom, my mother-in-law, and all the special moms in my life... my friends, family and all my cyber friends out in blogland that I haven't even met yet! I appreciate you all!

I hope your Mother's day has been truly amazing, and that you feel loved and special - because you are!

Here's a snap shot of what my Mother's Day weekend has been like.

Last night, I took my Mother-in-Law to a special piano concert put on by a young man, Josh Herrett, who is one of the most amazing pianists I have ever heard. You just keep hoping the music won't end. My sister-in-law, and her mom, joined us, and we all really enjoyed the concert.

This morning, the kids greeted me with hand-crafted gifts that they had all made for me. That will be a post of its own! Once I get them all photographed, then I'll share their creativity on here!

Today, our family served during the coffee time at church, along with another family, but we were able to take in part of the service, and all the moms were blessed with a gift - a pen and matching bookmark for my Bible. After church, I got to have a nap! I love naps :) Then we headed out to a park for a nice walk along the trails. We ended the day with dinner at the Old Spaghetti factory. That is really your one-stop-family-place! We love it there, and so do the kids. I tell ya, though, that place was hopping... and we didn't have reservations, but they got us seated in probably less than 10 minutes. Great service, and great food. I even got a carnation for Mother's Day!

Here I am with my children... thanks Steve, and kids, for a great day!

Happy Birthday to me!!!

2011-05-02T20:48:00.000-07:00

Is it vain to post about yourself on your birthday? I don't know! But I am going to...

I have had a wonderful day, and it's not even over yet!

It really started yesterday, when Steve and the kids got me an amazing cake, and gave me some gifts.

Cupcake tea towels:

A bright pink hoodie: (love this, by the way!! Steve is so happy to see me in something other than black!)

Today, I woke up to breakfast in bed, thanks to my son Scott. Elise had supplied a bouquet of dandelions for the tray. Todd said that he didn't do anything, but he did give me about a thousand hugs today, so I would say he did plenty! I am blessed.

Steve was spending the day helping his brother, so I took the boys to school, and then headed to the polls to cast my vote. (And in the most recent news about today's election, it looks like my birthday wish has come true!!!)

After voting, I went out for coffee with my "Birthday Twin." Leanne was born on this day, exactly one year ahead of me. Happy Birthday, my friend!

Steve arrived home in time to pick up the boys from school.... which was wonderful because it was pouring rain. Raining cats and dogs.... Raining to beat the band! However you want to put it, it was sure coming down! On their way home they stopped to get me a coffee and some gorgeous roses! Can you see a colour theme for this year's birthday?!!! Stampin' Up! calls this colour, "Melon Mambo."

After school, we took the kids to Steve's parents' to spend the night, and we headed out to White Rock to the Boathouse for dinner. We were there exactly a decade ago, at the same restaurant... possibly the same table, for my 25th birthday, and he didn't even think of that when he was planning tonight's birthday date. But I thought it was pretty cool. 10 years ago, we were just dating, but I already knew he was "the one" by then :)

Yam fries...

Salmon, scallops and prawns, oh yum!!

The manager came out to wish me a Happy Birthday and deliver a special birthday treat!

The scene as we were leaving White Rock. It turned into a gorgeous day - it was very nice of Steve to take me away from the rain for a couple hours!!

On our way home this evening, we stopped and got a movie... so, we're heading downstairs to watch it now.

An Art Exchange

2011-04-27T23:34:00.000-07:00

Elise requested a painting day. I felt up to doing some art, so I said sure. I had thought of doing a sailboat, but realized I actually paint better alone. I decided to paint something a little bit simpler, so I didn't have to concentrate so hard on what I was doing. This also gave me the energy to answer her thousands of questions!

When Elise suggested that whatever I painted should be given to her, and the art she came up with would be given to me... I thought that sounded like a fair trade. She, however, felt cheated because she finished TWO pieces for me, while I only completed one :)

From Elise to me:

She did this piece first. I actually got to have a lot of input into the order of colours. Although, at one point, I suggested green, and she quickly nixed that. Said it just didn't go! She's the artist, so she should know!!

The second painting reminds me of something Emily Carr might have painted. I love the colours Elise used. She had fun mixing colours for this one. Her goal was to make brown by combining different paints together. She was quite happy with the results! I think this one will get a frame.

From me to Elise:

And, here is my painting that she said she will hang in her bedroom. I used watercolours, and she chose the colours I used. They don't even come close to matching her bedroom colours, but I'm getting the vibe that she wishes her room was orange. Maybe next time I redecorate her room :) I have quite a fun little girl, and I really enjoyed our artistic morning!

Sewing Fun

2011-04-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

Like anything, sewing becomes extra fun when you have the right tools and fabrics. I just stumbled across this fabric site in the US. Love, love LOVE some of these patterns.

SkyeReve Fabrics on Facebook

SkyeReve Fabrics website

Family Easter Fun!

2011-04-25T08:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we hosted Steve's family for Easter dinner. We had ham, scalloped potatoes, baked green beans, corn, veggies and rolls. Delicious! For dessert, Steve's mom brought Paska and some white chocolate popcorn = YUMMY!

After dinner, the kids got to decorate eggs. I had boiled them ahead of time (no blowing out for the kids!!!) We used Stampin' Up! reinkers in water as "paint" and then used flowers from the sticky cuts sheets that are available in the Clearance Rack right now for next to nothin'!! (Check it out :) We put glitter on the flowers and I think the eggs turned out smashingly!!! (thankfully, I had a few extras boiled, because some really did smash!!)

Up From the Grave He Arose!

2011-04-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

We sang that at church yesterday, and was there ever volume in that place! Everyone was singing! There's nothing like the old hymns to tell the story... new music is nice, but the hymns have it all!

Here are the cards I made for my inlaws...

For Steve's parents,

For Steve's brother and family

My Favourite Animal

2011-04-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a little laugh for today... just got this in my inbox from my parents. I can just see my dad laughing at this one!

My Favorite Animal

Our teacher asked us what our favorite animal was, and I said,"Fried chicken."

She said I wasn't funny, but she couldn't have been right, because everyone else in the class laughed.

My parents told me to always be truthful and honest, and I am.

Fried chicken is my favorite animal. I told my dad what happened, and he said my teacher was probably a member of PETA.

He said they love animals very much.

I do, too. Especially chicken, pork and beef. Anyway, my teacher sent me to the principal's office.

I told him what happened, and he laughed, too.

Then he told me not to do it again.

The next day in class my teacher asked me what my favorite live animal was.

I told her it was chicken. She asked me why, just like she'd asked the other children. So I told her it was because you could make them into fried chicken.

She sent me back to the principal's office again. He laughed, and told me not to do it again. I don't understand. My parents taught me to be honest, but my teacher doesn't like it when I am.

Today, my teacher asked us to tell her what famous person we admire most.

I told her, "Colonel Sanders." Guess where I am now...

Singing for a cause...

2011-04-20T10:51:00.001-07:00

I love to sing... at church, at home, in the truck, by myself, in a choir, with music or acappella, anytime or anywhere... usually it's just BEcause. But last Friday night, I had the privilege of singing FOR A cause! I was involved in the Langley Dessert Theatre that raised funds and support for Matthew's House.

The evening was a huge success... in both monetary and entertainment measures. What an honour to be included in this great event. Esther Froese had the vision for this, and together with her team of volunteers, she pulled off a great event!

Jason Brown, of Revival Arts Studio, was there taking pictures. He gave me permission to use these photos to show you a little bit of what happened at the Dessert Theatre. Steve took some short video clips, too, but I have to figure out how to post those!!

Here are all the photos he took of the evening. He loaded them to flickr. Dessert Theatre.

All photos are by Jason Brown. Thanks for the great pics, Jason, you've captured the evening well!

The Jansen 5 opened the evening with beautiful prelude music. I could listen to this group all day. They were 5 siblings ranging in age from 16 - 22 and they were truly amazing.

The room was decorated beautifully, and the tickets said to wear red in honour of Matthew, so there were splashes of red everywhere. It looked very cool from the stage!

Once the evening started, and the mc welcomed everyone, I was first on stage! I was nervous until I put my first foot on the stage, then I told the nervousness to take a hike and I became "Sister Sarah!" This all started back around Halloween when I put a little 30 second clip of myself on Facebook, singing a song from the Sound of Music. I went as a Nun for Halloween, and thought I'd pull out some old musical favourites. Well... when this fundraiser was being planned, it was remembered by the organizers that I sang as a nun, and a whole act was born. I did an 8 minute routine as Sister Sarah. It was a lot of fun. My sister made this head thing years ago when we were in a group of singers called Sister Act. I kept it purely for dress up purposes, and to make my kids laugh... on Friday I got to make 200 other people laugh, too :) It really was fun, though. And where else can you sing these amazing songs from that old movie?

This is "Uncle Hal." He is quite a character... loves to tell stories and entertained us with thoughts on just about everything, including my favourite, "The Prodigal Son in the Key of F" in which there were so many alliterations with the letter F that it left your head spinning. Clever!

It was quite fun to share a stage with the Canadian Idol finalist Greg Neufeld. He sang twice throughout the evening, and it is obvious that he really feels at home on the stage. Music is clearly his passion, and it was a treat to hear him sing LIVE.

I got to sing as just me, too. The song I sang was "Anyway" by Martina McBride. Dawnelle had put together a powerpoint to play while I sang, and it was beautiful. I think the song really fit with the evening and Matthew's House.

Last Summer, our kids were involved in a project by Revival Arts called Imagine. A collection of photos of children in the area, put together in a keepsake book. It is really beautiful. The book was a big success and Revival Arts is doing another edition. There are only a few spots left, but if you are interested in being part of this project, and helping Matthew's House at the same time (all sitting fees are donated to Matthew's House), please follow this link for more information. IMAGINE kids book.

I did it!!

2011-04-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

Earlier today, I talked about wanting to decorate some Easter Eggs... here are my eggs :)

I started the process a few days ago with some plain white eggs.

1. Wash the eggs.

2. Poke a bunch of little holes in the top and bottom of the egg using a straight pin.

3. Make the hole bigger. (about the diametre of a skewer).

4. Carefully blow the egg yolk and whites into a bowl. You can do what you want with these, even chuck them if it grosses you out to eat them. But I decided to feed them to my family for dinner. Don't worry, I wouldn't ever do this for company, or in cookies that I might give away!!!! I would only do this for my immediate family - and they weren't actually too crazy about the idea once they saw what I was doing! But dinner was still good :)

5. Once you have completely rinsed the eggs inside and out, dry them well. Step five is to heat emboss on the eggs, or to use a white crayon to make a design which will resist the dye that you paint them with. I did a bit of both - crayon and heat embossing (I highly recommend a good oven mitt if you decide to emboss on them!!). Then skewer the eggs, and paint them using Stampin' Up! reinkers. On some of the eggs, I also used gold and sliver pens to add some detail.

6. Once I was happy with the intensity of the colour, I let them dry on their skewers, standing in a cup.

7. Once completely dry, spray a sealer coat on them. I used a clear acrylic sealer by Americana.
Then they can stand in the glass again... it'll take about an hour for the sealer to dry completely.

8. Remove them from the skewers, and add some bling if you'd like. I used Stampin' Up!'s pearls and rhinestones to add a bit of sparkle.

9. Finally, display and enjoy! Happy Easter :)