Angels and a Sprout

Todays card is from one of my favourite christmas cdroms...Victorian Christmas..triple cdrom by Joanna Sheen. I just loved this image of the two little angels. When I was little I was convinced that everyone has a guardian angel. I thought that they spent their days watching over you and even if they couldn't stop bad things happening..they would always be there to make you feel better after the event. Isn't it strange what our younger selves thought was the absolute truth. I'm a great believer that we all still need a little magic in our lives. That it's totally plausible to believe in things we can't see. I always told Henry that people will always find things to bring themselves comfort and that there was nothing wrong with that..as long as it wasn't hurting any other person or creature. Sometimes life can be a hard place and sometimes we all feel that we need a source of comfort and security. It's like when you are safe and warm in bed and there is a storm raging outside..you can listen to the storm and just be grateful that you are where you are. Sometimes when I fuss one of my cats and I can see the love and trust in their faces..I'm so thankful for having them in my life.

And with that thought in mind...I thought that today I would share with you all a picture of one of my family...Sprout

 Here he is. He really has come so far.From not even wanting to look at a human being because they had caused him nothing but pain...to the bundle of bed hugging cuddle monster that he is now. In the new year I will try and get a picture of all the family..so you will then know who it is I'm rambling on about...lol.. You may think that Sprout is an odd name...maybe not when you think what I've called the others. We called him Sprout because he arrived just before christmas one year  and Henry had just said that you have to have a sprout at christmas..and so we did. When he first came he didn't want to be any where near people and would hide. I will always remember the first time he cameover to me of his own accord...I was reading a book and felt something on my leg..I just supposed it was one of the others and glanced over to see Sprout walking so slowly towards me. I stroked him and he then ran off..but it was the start. you wouldn't recognise him as the same cat..as he runs up to you and meows demanding fuss. Bless him. As long as I live I will never understand why people have animals that they aren't willing to look after properly or love. My animals are one of the major blessings in my life and my life would be so much less without them in it

Well the coffee is calling. I must tell you that I managed to get all my cards finished for the fair and my friend the pa has taken them to sell for me...or not depending on the visitors to the fair. Keep your fingers crossed for me..I would like to sell a few. I will let you know how it all went tomorrow. At least it's a nice day for it. The sun is shining and the sky is blue. The very first christmas fair that I was involved with in the village..some 20 odd years ago..it was hammering down. The rain was sideways and there was a raging wind. Never had so many women had to run so fast with a tray of mince pies..lol. So until tomorrow...take care and happy crafting.

Santa's coming to town

Todays card is from the wonderful Giordano Christmas cdrom brought to us by Joanna Sheen. It has been a few years now since this cd was released but I have to say that I've had my moneys worth and so much more. I believe that you could find a card for anyone in your life with this cd. I just love the images on this cd and must have used most of them.Every year I notice another one that I haven't used.To make this card, I mounted the image onto some gold mirri. I used some backing paper from my stash and put them both onto a 8x8 card.I added a border with some christmas stockings on it.I used to love the excitement in Henrys eyes when he was little and getting ready for Santa. We always loved Christmas and the preparations were always the most fun.

It seems to be a lovely day today here in the mountains..the sun is shining and the birds are singing. Well that sounds all a bit Disney to me but that's the way it is..lol.Last night was so funny..as you know I'm now the proud owner of an electric blanket for the first time in my life...and I have to say it hasn't taken the cats a long time to realise that something magical is happening in the bedroom. When I went to bed last night , there was 5 cats all spread out on my bed. They were all enjoying the heat. Sprout had gone a step further and had actually got under the duvet and was toasting nicely. It made me smile..he has come along such a long journey since arriving here. He was the cat that was thrown at the door, that Henry found knocked out on the path. He was so scared and was covered in cigarette burns. He used to hide on the shelves in the parlour and always hid his face if anyone came in. It's taken a couple of years but now he's grown into his paws. He runs in and out to suit himself and makes such a fuss of me. He has even just started going to my friends for a little stroke.The first time he went to anyone besides me and Henry, was to my friend the pa. I don't know who was the most shocked..me, my friend or Sprout himself..lol. Last night showed me how far he had come on. There he was curled up under the duvet, as happy as could be. When I asked him what he thought he was doing , he just rolled on his back to have his belly tickled. How far he has come.

I'm still in work mode. I'm still working on cards and am hoping to get them finished today. I've got to the point where I need to add the jewel embellishments and ribbons. And then to my favourite moment..inserts. I think have a mental block over them. I should really make an insert for the card as soon as I've finished..but that never happens..lol So now today I will have to make 40 odd..it's my own fault. And to tell you the truth..once I've actually started doing them..I don't mind. I find something on the tv or put some music on and away I go. Wish me luck.

Well the coffee is calling and I think that the caffeine will have to be tap all day..lol. I hope that you all have a fabulous weekend...so until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting.

A Jiggery Makery Present

Tdays card is a design team make for the fabulous team over at Jiggery Makery. Ever since I've seen this digital image I've been singing..Signed, sealed delivered..so I thought that it would make a great card for the man in your life. I painted the image with my watercolours and then cut her out. I used some backing paper from my stash and mounted that onto a card with some mirri card. I edged the mirri and the sentiment with some glittered peeloff. If you get the chance why not pop over to the Jiggery Makery site and take a look at all Adeles wonderful creations. I'm sure that there is wonderful inspiration for your future crafting...the other ladies on the team have created some truly amazing projects.

It's really cold yet again in the mountains today but at least I can see the mountains. The cats have all just gone out. They demanded breakfast today as if they hadn't been fed for a week. I had to go to the bathroom accompanied by 7 little furry bodies all running round meowing at me. I know that they all need more in the cold weather but you'd think they would at least give me a moment..lol. At the moment all apart from Rave have disappeared out of the window. Raven is of course sat on my legs. I've been working at full speed for the past few days, trying to finish some cards for a local christmas fair. I still feel as ifI'm knee deep in glitter..lol. I have finished setting all the cards up..I just have to embellish them. So this afternoon will see me surrounded by poinsettia and holly leaves. Please keep your fingers crossed that I manage to get it all done. Tomorrow will find me doing all the inserts. For the first time in my life I'm looking forward to doing inserts...it will at least mean that I've managed to get them finished. I think that it's going to be a long day..lol

Well the coffee is calling and so are a huge pile of cards. Caffeine is definitely needed. So until tomorrow  take care and happy crafting.

Delivering Christmas

Todays card is another from the fabulous Bebunni Christmas cdrom. The images are just so cute and there is something magical about them. I have mounted the image onto some silver mirri and then onto a backing paper. I embellished with some die cut snowflakes and jewels. This card has been made so that it will take a normal stamp. The postage these days has made everyone think about how many christmas cards they can afford to spend. And it's a real pity as some people really enjoying hearing from people that they may not hear from the rest of the year.

The weather here today is freezing and the biggest cat flap in the world is shut and there is a group of very disgusted cats who are trying to decide to be in or out. I've got the blanket over my legs and Raven has decided that she is stopping there. Pinkie has not shut up since she arrived home and is telling anyone who comes in all about her adventures..lol.

Last night was a revelation in this house for all the cats. My friend had sent me a present of an electric blanket for the bed. I have never had one before and I have to say it was fantastic. I made up the bed with the blanket in place and slipped my nightie and dressing gown under the quilt as well. It didn't take long fr the cats to realise that something was different. All of a sudden I had three cats trying to get their bottoms onto the warm spot..lol. Word will now have got out to the rest, so I'm expecting a stampede tonight. They take up enough of the bed as it is without stealing my heat as well.

Well the coffee is calling..and I'm in great need of some caffeine.Even though I'm hinting at 2 of my friends..it has taken a lot of moaning to get one. So until tomorrow  take care and happy crafting.

The rabbit, the snowman and the robin

Todays card is from the wonderful Bebunni Christmas cdrom from Crafters Companion. I love the images on this cd..it may be of course because it features rabbits..lol. I simply had to glitter the image. As all the cats can testify to..they are all now covered with sparkles. I'm also sharing this card as a set that I'm creating for the wonderful design team over at JB-Crafting Supplies.

I'm sorry that I didn't get to blog yesterday but I had a crazy day and time just got  away from me. Before I knew it..it was time to make dinner. I'd got up early so that I could have a long day crafting trying to get ready for a stall I'm having at a christmas fair but as always..the best laid plans and all that.It was like the house had a revolving door and that the telephone never stopped.It made me quite dizzy..lol.

Well pinkie has settled back home. She is back to bossing everyone around...so I no doubt that she is back on form. She came to bed alongside two more of the girls and as always I ended up with the smallest area on the bed...lol. Trying to read my book with three cats vying for my attention is hard work. Each of them wanted to be in top spot..right under my chin and they kept trying to outdo each other. While all this moving is going on..I'm the one trying to read a book. In the end I had to give up and ended up putting my cd player on. Since losing Henry, the hardest time seems to be the middle of the night and I tend to put the cd player on because at least the house doesn't sound so quiet. I'm going to order a couple of cds for listening to over christmas. One is the Annie Lennox christmas cd and the other is the Lady Antebellum cd. Henry loved both of these and we listened to both of them last year. It may seem a wierd thing to do but it will bring back special memories of last christmas and I think it may help. I need to focus on the happy times that I was lucky enough to share with Henry. I think that this is my way of going forward..it may not suit everyone but It what I need to do at the moment.

The weather here in the mountains today is still freezing. The mountains themselves are covered in mist..it's like being in Brigadoon. The cats have decided to stay in doors today and I can't say that I blame them. It seems very quiet here today..especially after yesterday, so the crafting is shouting at me..lol. It seems that the time has come to get the glitter out..again. But first of course.. a coffee is needed. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Margaret Tarrant Selection

 Following a request to see more of the Margaret Tarrant paper pad from Joanna Sheen..here we are. four of them. As most of you know, I love them and have been through quite a number of the pads fulfilling orders.The paper in the pad is a lovely quality and easy to cut. This may seem a little thing but so many times I've used product that just wasn't right for the job. Paper too thin or too thick can make such a difference to your crafting experience..I know because I've been there. My friend was laughing the other day..I was making a card and had put on a backing paper..which I then removed because it was upside down to me. Now bear in mind that this paper was one that unless you knew you wouldn't be able to tell..but I did and it had to come off. I can't help it..lol It's the same with the diecut toppers that are too thick and attached with little pieces of paper..it drives me insane..I have to go round with a nail file to remove all the little bobbles. Sometimes in card making..it's those little extras that make such a difference to the finished card.

I've got a lot of cards to do this week.I'm hoping to have a stall at a local fair. The problem is that I've got this week to make the cards..lol. I have been so busy with making orders and doing the house that I've just run out of time. But I'm determined so there's going to be a lot of work this week. It's just as well really...my legs are so painfull..I'd like to give them away for a fortnight. I wouldn't wish them on anyone for any longer...but it would be good to have a break. Keep your fingers crossed that I can get a wiggle on with some cards.

I was so happy last night to have a full house of cats last night. I've put Pinkie in a pen so hopefully she will put a bit of weight on..to be honest she has looked after herself really well..the local mouse population must have gone down considerably..lol. I'm so happy that she is home but you certainly know about it..she has not shut up since she came back. She has always been a very vocal girl and she is obviously telling me all about her adventures. She made such a fuss of Reg when she came in..sometimes I think they love him more than me..lol. All the cats adore him and make such a fuss of him..when he gets into his basket..in they all pile. The colder that it gets the less of Reg you can see..they lie all over him. Many people have been in and can't believe it...their own cats and dogs don't lie together. I know many that do so I find it strange if they don't.

The weather here in the mountains today is really cold. The winter sun is shining but it certainly doesn't feel as it is. I've got my blanket over my legs. My legs have a mind of their own..I have to be careful because they can get over cold very quickly and then I'm really in trouble. In the winter of 2009/10 my feet got so cold that I lost the feeling in 3 of my toes and they've never been the same since. So the winter socks will be out later as well.

Well the coffee is calling and lots of work to be done. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Loving the bunnies

Todays card is yet another from the wonderful Margaret Tarrant paper pad from Joanna Sheen. It must be the most used thing in this years christmas crafting. I think that I'm now on my 5th pad and love it as much as when I first started crafting with it. The backing paper is from my stash. The image itself is decoupaged and I've added some die cut decoration. The greeting is also from the pad. There is something so very gentle about the image...nostalgic and magical.

Well I've had a lovely day today. First I had a visit from my friend Dotty. We had a good natter, a good laugh and put the world to right. She has a darling little dog called Seren, who has previously visited me with Dottys Mum and Dad. Seren I think is a papillon ..I know that I've spelt that wrong..but they are called the butterfly dog because of their ears. Seren is just so pretty and despite all her fur is very light. We were laughing because weight wise she's so much lighter than Jeffrey. Yes he finally came back after the angel incident and so far seems to be behaving...for the moment. My other news is that Pinkie is now home..thank goodness. All the trips we have taken to the spot where she had been seen..poor Reg walked to the spot in the hope that she would recognise his scent and come home..and she finally did. As most of you know Pinkie is a very vocal cat and has not shut up since she came home. I've put her in a pen for the moment..so that she can recover from her adventures and get fed up a little bit. Dotty helped me to get the pen set up and I have given her, her favourite blanket. At this very moment she is curled up in her blanket,talking away to me. I've had massive cuddles from her and am so happy the little madam is back.

The weather here has turned really cold..it must be getting to vest time..lol. I know that last night I did wonder whether I should get my winter socks out but by then I was warm and cosy and to be honest was too lazy to move.I've got so much work to do today..am doing a christmas fair next week and I have nothing so far. It will be a week of frantic crafting I think..lol But I've always said that I work better under pressure..so I think that I will be putting this to the test.

Well my friend the sparkie has just made me a lovely smelling cup of coffee..so as I need a caffeine hit..I shall be heading in the direction of that brew. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Candy cane santa

Todays card features this lovely topper, which makes me smile every time I see it. The image is decupagedand I mounted it onto some toning green paper. I edged the paper with a glittery peeloff I'm still up to my knees in christmas crafting and for the first year ever I'm finding it really hard.People tell me all the time that the first christmas after losing Henry would be the hardest..but I could never imagine the feelings that erupt at the strangest times. You see..christmas was our special time..we loved all the planning and we had a lot of traditions..some passed down from my own childhood and at this time of year we would be caught up in all the excitement. It seems so wrong not to be planning what I would surprise him with and looking forward to it all .Over the years I have lost so many people and christmas has got to be smaller and smaller. Now as it stands there is really only me. I have no family left and if it wasn't for friends I wouldn't have anyone. Memories of christmas past flood my mind...and today..seeing all the adverts on the television, the films on all the channels and talking to people planning their own christmas..it's as if I'm seeing it all through a wall of glass. I can see it all but can't touch or engage with it all. Perhaps I need to count my blessings..I know that Henry would want me to carry on and make the most of it. When I've been making cards this week, I've found it all so hard. So I think that I've got to get a grip..I need to be thinking of all the good
times, all the wonderful memories and most of all..the happiness that I was lucky enough to know.

I'm planning to have a christmas dinner with a friend..so at least that will keep me busy. I think that, that may be the answer..to keep so busy that I don't have time to think. I've been organising things for a tombola in the village hall and that has been fun. Finding a place to put the stuff away from Jeffrey has been a nightmare. At this very moment the box is on the couch with 2 cushions and a teddy on top. It seems to be the best bet because if it was in a room I couldn't see it..the chances are he would be in it. What is it with cats and boxes?

Well the coffee is calling and I'll be giving myself a good talking to..lol. A friend has just brought me a box of chocolates..so I may have one while I count my blessings. After all I'm truly blessed with my friends and animals..so until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

The present to unwrap

Todays card isa design team make for the fabulous team over at Jiggery Makery. Let me introduce you to Cassie...the present just waiting to be unwrapped. I know so many gentlemen that would love to get this card, perhaps dreaming of such a present..lol. I backed the card using some holly paper and glitter board from my stash. I coloured Cassie with my watercolour paints and then cut her out and mounted the image onto the card. I added the presents and the greeting. Looking at the picture again if you covered the holly leaves on her skirt with a strong colour..you could use this image all year round. After all presents are not just christmas ones..lol.

I have to say that I'm amazed to be able to blog today after the chaos that reigned this morning. And of course it involved Jeffrey. My friend the pa has been working on some christmas decorations, and I have been helping by painting them for her. Well they have been sat on a tray in the parlour drying between coats of paint. I thought that they would be fine because they had not been bothered with...until this morning. Jeffrey decided that suddenly they were the most interesting things on the planet. And off he took with a star...closely followed by me. I finally got him to part with it. As I was making my way back to the parlour with the star..the little beast was running round the room with an angel in his mouth. As I made a grab for it he ran up the chest of drawers and dropped it behind the cat pen. And now I can't find it. I've looked and my friend the spark has looked for it and we can't see it. No doubt my friend the pa will have to have a scrabble behind the cat pen..oh joy of joys. And as for Jeffrey..he has headed off out of the biggest cat flap in the world and is yet to return. He so knows that he's in trouble.No doubt he will be in later all loving and playing cute kitten..lol. I don't know what gets into my cats sometimes..they find the strangest things amusing. Since I've had the new worktop fitted in the kitchen, Raven finds nothing better than sliding along the worktop on her side, up and down it's length and then back again. It is so funny to watch. This is also the cat that adores to play with drinks straws..if you happen to have one in a drink, at the first chance she has she will get hold of it and run off with it. All my cats seem to have their little quirks. Icabod loves peas and sultanas..lol. Tankie likes to sleep in the bed with her head on the pillow. Raven is the crisp monster..even if she is outside on the studio roof, the minute she hears the rattle of a crisp packet..you've got a friend. Unless of course it's rast chicken flavour..and then she just looks at you in disgust and leaves. Salt and vinegar are her favourite. Milky is the one that loves the rain and getting soaking wet. And then shares it with you by shaking all over you..lol And then there's Jeffrey..who, so far in his short life has come up with antics that just leave me speechless. Even though my cottage is filled with chaos..thanks to my cats..my life would be so much less without them. They give me a reason to get up every day and make me laugh when I don't feel like it.

Well the coffee is calling and I have t say that it smells like a good brew. My friend the spark has just made me one as he was leaving. So I think the caffeine hit is needed before I get to work. I have a couple of hours of crafting and then it will be time to go down and start a shepherds pie for dinner. It is just the day for one..it's cold and raining here in the mountains today. S until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting.

Christmas Holly

Todays card is a very traditional card but I love it. The image is from a topper sheet, as is the border. It really is handy to have some of these sheets in your stash..just to be able to make a few cards without any real thought is something that we may all need in the run up to the christmas season. The backing paper is from my stash and toned into the topper really nicely. All that I have added is some peeloff edging and a greeting. How is your christmas crafting going?I still feel that I'm up to my knees in glitter and holly leaves..lol. I'm hoping to get a bit more organised today. I intend to sort out my backing papers and my backing card out. I have managed to finish a lot of toppers..mounted them and glittered..so all I need to do is put them on a card and embellish. But please don't mention inserts...for sme reason I have a mental block with inserts and always seem to leave them until one day I have no choice but to spent all day doing them. Some people say to me why on earth do I bother..but I think that they really do make a difference to the finished card. I have been doing inserts for so long now..it actually looks wrong to me without one.

Well it's really cold here in the mountains today..I think Jack Frost may be visiting the valley tonight. I really for the people in America who have had the snow arrive..so thick..so much. What I saw on the news amazed me..it really looked like that someone had just thrown buckets of the stuff straight onto them. People trapped in cars for 48 hours. It got me thinking back to the winter of 2009/2010. We had snow for ages and it was so cold that all my vegetables froze. Everyone was phoning me asking me about their fridges and I was telling them that it was because it was colder in the kitchen than it was inside the fridge and the fridges has switched themselves off. Unbelievable. I have a friend who lives in the north of Canada and they use the fridges to stop their food from freezing. It's so cold there that the fridge is the thing preventing all their vegetables from freezing solid. I remember here I lost a lot of vegetables because over the festive season, I kept them in the shed. That year it froze so hard..it all froze..lettuce, tomatoes, swede, sprouts..all rock hard. The icicles were so long and thick it looked like we had bars on the windows.The cats were so funny in the snow. I remember watching Icabod trying to get back over the road without touching the snow. It was so funny. The snow was so deep that when he jumped he disappeared. All you saw was this ginger cat jumping high, disappearing and jumping again trying to stop himself landing. It must have been the longest journey he had ever had..lol. I can't wait to see what Jeffrey makes of the snow..if we have any. Last year he was too young to go out so he really hasn't had the experience. I personally can't wait. I will have my camera at the ready so that I can share it with you. Mind you I'm waiting to see how the wheelchair will fair in the snow as well. I've got myself some trainers that will hopefully have a lit more grip.

Well the coffee is calling and I have some serious organising to do. First though, I have a serious pile of printing to do. I have to get some ideas out of my head and onto a card. So until tomorrow.take care and happy crafting

Work Continues

Hello everyone...sorry that I didn't manage to get blog yesterday...I am trying so hard to get ahead with my christmas orders...at the moment I seem to be knee deep in glitter and holly leaves. I'm hoping to get my head together and get some serious work done. So for todays pictures I thought I would share a picture of Reg (above) and Jeffrey (below)..the partners in crime..lol. Last nights crime was to raid the treat box..about a kilo in treats has disappeared.

It is Jeffrey that can manage to open the lid of the treat box. Even when Mother has masking taped the lid shut..he can still manage to get it open. Then he dishes out the goodies for Reg and himself. I have seen them at it..it's a case of one for you and then one for me. And looking at the amount of treats that have disappeared..it's going to be a very windy day today...lol.

The weather here in the mountains today is rather nippy. It's fine but you get a very definite feeling that Jack Frost is on his way..lol. In the dog basket Reg, Tankie and Jeff are all curled up and don't look like they're going to move any time soon. I thought that while I'm sat here under my blanket it would be nice to share this picture of summer with you. It was taken in my friends garden. It is a magical place. It is like walking in a grotto and is the perfect place to forget your every day worries.

Well the coffee is calling and the work is shouting. Hopefully tomorrow I'll have good news about my level of glitter. So until then..take care and happy crafting.

Pretty in Pink

Todays card is a design team make for the great team over at JB-Crafting Supplies. It is using a Jayne Nestorenko christmas stamp and I wanted to share how you could easily use the stamp all year round. I like nothing better than good value for money and this stamp I can see me using a lot. I have stamped the image using a memento inkpad and have coloured it using my watercolour paints.I mounted the image onto a piece of gold mirri and then mounted that onto some pink polka dot backing paper. I embellished using flowers and a decorative heart from my stash.

Well today the rat man has come. We are having problems with them in the village. Now I know that living in the country as I do that they are always around but just lately a lot of people have been seeing them in the daylight hours. So I was elected to speak to him as I'm home all day. Well the regulations are enough to drive you mad. Most of the people are out at work, so are not here to see him and have told me to...they have given me permission and he can check with them all by phone. That is not enough. At the moment he is walking around the village. Well he has just come back and it gets worse. He is not willing to bait as long as the people feeding the wild birds continue to put so much out. He said that a neighbour of mine has far too much out and it must be like a macdonalds for the rats...that there was lots of food on the floor. It gives me the shivers. He said that it was a good job that my cats are so active. So I really don't know what will happen now...he's going to write to the people involved He also told me that yesterday.there were 2 rats seen just going for a stroll up a local high street..s it seems as it's not just here.

The weather here today is quite chilly and most of the cats have chosen to stay inside...I can't blame them. Raven is sat on my knee as I write this, and Tankie and Jeff are curled up in the dog basket with Reg. Sprout has taken himself off to bed. Are you getting ready for christmas yet? I'm finding it hard headwise this year. Normally at this time I would be scrolling through Japanese sites looking for special presents for Henry. I keep waking in a panic that I haven't got anything sorted fr him and then I remember. I've spent the past few days in tears..but that must be normal I think. It's going to be a hard couple of months I think..but I must remember to count my blessings.

Well the coffee is calling and there's lots to do...lots of cards to make..and still the kitchen to sort. My legs are still being pathetic so it looks as if I'll be concentrating on the card making for the next couple of days.Off now for my caffeine hit..so until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Mistletoe Bunny

Todays card is another make using the brilliant Margaret Tarrant paper pad from Joanna Sheen. This is becoming one of my most requested cards of this years crafting. There really is something magical about the image...so nostalgic, bringing back memories of christmas past. It reminds me of books I used to read when I was little and all the magic that I believed in.I loved losing myself in a book andto be honest I still do. When the wind is howling outside to me there's nothing better than going to bed early with a good book.You'll find me cuddled up with at least 4 of the cats and Reg, reading one of my old favourite books. I'm enjoying reading the Alison Uttley books at the moment..the ones where she shares the memories of her country childhood. So many things she talks about are very similar to my own childhood on the farm. The years may change but alot of things in a country kitchen remain the same. You may remember the Alison Uttely books of the little grey rabbit and her adventures...I certainly read them when I was little, alongside a lot of Enid Blyton. I wasn't so into the children but the pixies and fairies just fired my imagination. I also loved the Brer Rabbit stories. Just as I'm writing this it's come to me it seems as if I have had a rabbit thing all my life..lol. The illustrations of the little grey rabbit stories were drawn by Margaret Tempest...who I think must have been a contemporary of Margaret Tarrant. Both ladies produced a wealth of magical illustrations and both formed a huge part of my childhood.

Well it's just a short one today as I'm surrounded by glittered images that need to be made into cards. Lots of work to do..which I'm so glad of seeing as my legs are still having a bad day. The coffee is calling and then I need to be organising next weeks work. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Pretty in Pink

This morning I spent a little time going through all the christmas cards that I have made so far this year and thought that I would pick out my favourite. And here it is. It's from the Margaret Tarrant paper pad from Joanna Sheen. This is a really unusual one for me...I'm normally a very traditional girl colourwise..reds and golds and green. I even felt strange doing blue and silver..lol...but for me to pick this pink card..well I must be a woman on the change..lol. The image has been decoupaged and added to a card, which had been covered with this pink snowflake paper. The greeting is also on the sheet that holds the image. I have just embellished with some snowflakes that have a pink shimmer.

I am hoping at some time this weekend to start to unpack the kitchen but I don't know when. At the moment I'm feeling a little sorry for myself as my legs are giving me a lot of pain today. Perhaps the best thing will be to keep off them and craft. At least when I'm crafting I'm being productive without having to move..lol. So the day calls for more glittering I think. A sure way to bring a smile to my face.

Reg has just left the house with a lady. My friend called round and he did the big eyes at her and now they have skipped off together round the block. He is really a ladies man and tries it on with everyone that calls. He was disgusted with social services because they didn't have any dog treats in their pockets..lol Jeffrey has been trouble..my friend the evening dogwalker came round and he went to give him a gravy bone and Jeffrey grabbed at it and managed to bite this thumb. We were laughing about the size that he is becoming and saying that in a couple of years time there may be sightings of a large black cat roaming in the mountains of Wales....it will be Jeffrey.

I just wanted to thank you all for the messages, emails and comments that you all make. I love sharing what I do and am so glad how many of you have started to craft again. There have been many times in my life when crafting is the one thing that has enabled me to go on. There is something about the act of creating..be it a canvas, a card or even a piece of backing paper, that can make difficult times easier to bear. You can lose yourself for that hour and sometimes it's all that it takes to make your day a little better.

Well the coffee is calling and there's lots to do. I hope that you all have a fabulous weekend. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Missy and the mistletoe

Todays creation is a design team make for the fabulous team over at Jiggery Makery. I hope that you will pop over to the blog..there have  been some stunning creations make by the other ladies. Well worth a look and a great source of inspiration. I have made a christmas memo board and thought that it would be fun to make the other half know what he has to do to ensure a good christmas..lol What gave me the idea was the fact that I have seen lots of different signs saying how many sleeps until christmas..Henry had one when he was little..and I thought why should the kids have all the fun. So I decided to make Missy my kiss request girl..lol. I printed Missy onto some thick card, coloured her with my copics and then glittered all of her outfit. I managed to scare most of the neighbours with my glittering good looks today...lol..as much as I've tried to remove the glitter from my face..I'm still twinkling. I've also used some of my diecuts to embellish the board. I just thought that this would provide a little laugh  wherever you decided to put it. You could of course make the board say whatever you wanted to...a list of what you'd really like for christmas ( no new ironing board cover..lol) or just use it as a memo board for shopping things that you need for the big day. Either way it would sit on your side and look festive.

I've been out on a trek today. Well I wasn't on my own..I did have Reg and Tankie with me..lol. My friend (the PA) had noticed Pinkie lurking by the dump. She has been out for a few weeks now as you know and now that it's turning colder I must get her in. Well the dump is down the lane and round the corner and it involves a steep downhill. I thought that if I could get within shouting distance she may come..but she didn't. At least I know that she is well and just scared. I have faith that she will be home this week. Bless her..I think that she has just gone further than she normally would, got scared and didn't know what to do. I just need to get her home. Please keep your fingers crossed for me. But now here's a treat for you...

Yesterday I spoke of the ginger kittens Trevor and Boris, and Harvey and Roxy. Well here they are. Harvey is the golden coloured dog..he is huge but has the most amazing cheeks for fussing. They all look so well behaved here..not like my tribe. When Henry was little he knew all the animals in the village...he may not know what the people were called but you could be sure that he knew what the animals were called..lol.

Well the coffee is calling and I've still got lots of glittering to do. I'm aiming to start unpacking the kitchen this weekend..it's the weather to put the slow cooker on I think. So until tomorrow take care and happy crafting

Cat in a hat

As you all know I am slightly cat obsessed..lol..so you must know that I just had to use this wonderful stamp from the Stampendous range. Again I had to colour this kitty ginger but this time it's in honour of my friends kittens called Trevor and Boris. They are the most adorable kittens ever and share their home with two dogs..Harvey and Roxy and from what I've seen in the photos it's the kittens that rule the roost. My Reg could sympathize with them. He knows what it's like to have your bed taken over by little furry beasts..lol. The image was stamped with a memento ink pad and coloured with my copics. What makes me laugh about this image is the cats face...it's just the same face that my cats would have if I put a hat on them. The backing paper is from my stash, as is the embellishment. As I've said before always consider what colourways you could use. Pick your favourite cat colour and colour the hat and scarf to fit your favourite christmas colours.

Well it is really blowing a hooley here in the mountains. It has been blowing so hard that it's managed to scare Sprout who flung himself back through the window at full speed. All the others seem to have found themselves a warm spot and have settled in for the day. I can't blame them. Today is my special day..I decided at the beginning of the week as a present to myself I would spend this afternoon glittering and that's just what I intend to do.Goodness help anyone who visits later..they expect to leave twinkling..lol.It was such a relief after the visit yesterday was over. I get so on edge when they visit..I don't know why.. I know that they understand my way of looking at life and my disability but as I see it..that's their problem. The way I look at and deal with things is what has got me through so many years and I don't see that I should have to change for anyone.

The coffee is calling and then it's all out glittering. I hope that the weather is being kinder to you wherever you are. Just remember bad weather is the perfect excuse to stay in and craft..lol. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Balancing Act

Todays card has got to be one of my favourite christmas stamps. Every time I see this image it just rings a smile to my face. This adorable image is from the Stampendous stamp range that features original House Mouse designs. I think that this little mouse is called Mizzy.I stamped the image using a memento inkpad and coloured with my copics. The backing paper is from my christmas stashand I used peeloffs for decoration. This stamp and many other Stampendous stamps are available from Julie at JB-Crafting Supplies. She has just had a new load of stamps arrive and they are gorgeous..I have to admit that the new ones featuring cats have somehow jumped into my basket..lol. All I can say is that it just had to be done. Watch this space..they will be appearing on this blog soon.

Well today was the day for social services to come and it began really badly. I had received a letter telling me that they would be here at 1 p.m. and that 2 people would be coming. Well at 1.30 no one had been so I phoned to find out what was going on. I was told that 1 wasn't coming and that the other would be here at 2 as expected. I said that on my letter that it was supposed to be 1 and I was told that I must have got it wrong. Well I hadn't, which I proved when the other lady arrived. The lady that didn't come apparently knew on Monday that she wouldn't be coming but didn't have the consideration to let me know. But now to the main thing..I got a wow for what I had had done.She said that she couldn't believe it...the kitchen is now wheelchair friendly..and I have to say that I've done it all without their help. It seems to me that if I was on benefits I could have had it done by them but because I'm self employed..no hope. I have to say that now my kitchen looks nothing like it did..it's nearly finished painting..just the 2 awkward places that my friend is going to help with and then it'll be time to finally unpack. The sink now has a door underneath and has been tiled..so I've just got to white gloss it..keeping the cats out of the way..lol. I'm so excited now to being at the stage where I can unpack. I have a new worktop for all my machines..microwave, slowcooker, breadmaker and kenwood. They've been in crates for so long that they will all need a good clean but I'm so looking forward to it. Oh and I have to say that I now have tiles behind my worktop and a tiled splashback behind my cooker. I've had white tiles behind the sink because I'm going to paint the sink unit white. But behind the worktop and cooker, they are black and look amazing with the magnolia and raspberry paint. One thought that I 've had is to spray paint the fridge with black board paint to turn it into a huge message area. I've seen it done and have to say that it looks amazing..I will have to look into it.

I'm also thinking about painting the bedroom but that won't be until next year now..the weather is so wet..I don't fancy living with wet paint for any longer this year..but I do have plans. And if I can face the thought I may very well decorate the parlour as well next year..I'm hoping to be able to afford 2 new windows so it would make sense to do it at the same time. I don't know what I'm becoming but it involves a lot of work..lol

Well the coffee is calling..I need a treat after worrying about their visit..thank God that it's all over and from what she said she won't be back for quite a while..so it means that I can have a bit of peace and plod on at my own speed. So until tomorrow (bring on the glitter..lol), take care and happy crafting.

Ginger Kitten

Todays card is a design team make for the wonderful team over at JB Crafting Supplies. The image is from the Stampendous stamps range. This one features a house mouse design by Ellen Jareckie. I loved this image of the kitten with the mouse asleep on it's head. I coloured the image with my copics. I intend to make another card using my watercolours and then will compare the two. There is so much detail in the stamp..and it stamps perfectly every time. Sometimes in life I really think you get what you pay for..and these stamps are an example of that. I have tried many different ranges and some I have to say are nothing but trouble. The paper and embellishments are from my christmas stash..which I add to every year..lol.I just can't resist.

The weather here in the mountains today is officially horrible.Most of the cats are in and have decided not to venture out. The only one that is going in and out is Milky. I think that she just loves getting wet. She goes out, gets so wet that she looks like she's been dipped in a bucket, comes in, shakes all over you, gets dry and then goes out again. And it's like that all day long. Many a card has been soaked by that darling kitty..lol.

The kitchen is coming along, but I don't think it will be where I would like it do be for when the social services visit but they'll have to lump it. My new worktop and cupboards are looking fab and I can start to unpack. I've still got the tiling to be done behind the worktop, cooker and sink and there are two areas that need to be painted...a corner that I can't reach on my own and a little piece under the stairs which until I move everything, I can't get to. But yesterday I thought to myself that I've waited so long for the kitchen to become what it is now, I'm not going to ruin it by rushing just because social services make me so uptight. The bathroom, hall, landing and stairs have been done. I really bet that they don't notice..lol. I'll let you know how it all goes on Thursdays blog.

Well my friend has just arrived and has put the kettle on...I'm so spoilt..lol. So the coffee is calling and I've lots of work to do. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting.

It's a dogs christmas

Todays card is the christmas card to the birthday card that I posted yesterday. It is for the same lady and features as yestereday, a wire haired dachshund. I found this lovely picture in my stash and decided to turn it into a christmas bauble. The backing paper, although very pale has blue snowflakes on it. I then die cut the baubles to go on either side and also die cut some silver and white poinsettias. The main focus is of course her favourite type of dog. I do seem to be having a bit of a thing for blue, white and silver this year..lol

It's quite cold here in the mountains today..I think that we will having a frost tonight. I do hope so..I think that it always looks so magical. When I was little I was convinced that we were visited by Jack Frost and that he danced his way around touching everything with his magical frosty fingers. To me it always looks as if the whole world has been glittered...and you know just how much I love that. I have a huge amount of glittering to do in readiness for making cards..probably Thursday. As most of you know I am due a happy visit from social services on Wednesday..so I need something to look forward to..hence the glittering on Thursday..lol. They are coming to make sure that I'm no nearer to throwing myself off a mountain and that I've cleaned my doorframes. You have to laugh. I'm taking bets whether they notice all the work that has been done..all the painting..all the work in the kitchen and all the clean doorframes. Because they don't like animals, they don't have any idea just how hard it is to paint all the woodwork with white gloss when you are being helped by a number of cats who are determined to paint with their tails. Hence the fact that most of my cats have a skunk look about them..lol

Well the coffee is calling and then I shall be stroking my new worktop. Tomorrow I shall be starting to unpack the kitchen after it's months of hibernation. I cannot even remember what half of it is...but I'm very excited. I will tell you all about it tomorrow. So until then..take care and happy crafting.

Dog in the flowers

Todays card is made for a friend and features this amazing image of a wire haired dachshund.I used some background paper from my stash which is actually from the Hollypond Hill cdrom by Joanna Sheen. I mounted that onto some dark blue card and edged them oth with a glitter peeloff. I then die cut some flower shapes and coloured them using my distress ink. I then added some jewels. The reason I made this card is because the lady who is to receive this card breeds this type of dog and I thought it would be nice for her to receive one with her special type of dog on it.

I know that I missed blogging yesterday..the day just seemed to get away from me. I had visitors and have to admit to having a great day but it's a wonder that I have any voice left..I don't think I stopped talking until bedtime.I was also visited by Doodles the dog. I have to say that he was the perfect guest. he took over one of Regs beds and settled down amazingly well. The only upset that we nearly had was when Jeffrey arrived home after a night on the tiles. He suddenly noticed Doodles and spent about an hour staring at him. If he could have spoken it would have been a case of 'who the heck are you and what are you doing in that basket'...it was so funny..lol. Reg wasn't bothered at all..he just stayed in his basket.

I've lots to do today..lots of cards to finish and lots to start. Such is my life. The builder was too busy to come on Friday and is now coming on Monday.I think that he is really an international man of mystery..he spends his weeks going up and down the country doing various jobs...I only wish that I had just 1p for every mile that he covered...I think that I'd never have to work again. I often feel like putting a small tracking device on him just to count the miles...lol. My friend..the PA is his wife and I've come to the conclusion that she must have a brain like a very good computer..just keeping up with his jobs and his phonecalls. She definitely gets my vote as Superwoman of the valley. I get exhausted just remembering what she's doing ..let alone keeping track of the wandering builder..lol

Well the coffee is calling and I think that caffeine is needed in a big way. I had Jeffrey stroking my face at 5 a.m. telling me that I needed to get up and feed him. And he would not give up. At the moment he is fast asleep downstairs..I think I need to go down and wake him up..lol. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Jiggery Makery and Children in Need

Todays card is made using one of the sassy ladies from Jiggery Makery. If you pop over to the Jiggery Makery Page you will find details of how to buy the Missy digital design and the proceeds will be going to Children in Need. What a great way to support a great cause and be able to make great cards at the same time. To make this card I have coloured Missy with my copics and have glittered her dress. I decided to do her in green so that she becomes the ultimate christmas elf!! I covered the card with matching green glitter paper and added a plain white centre which I have edged with christmas ribbons. It is a very simple card but has an impact. Sometimes when you are making christmas cards..that's what you want..a card that is simple to put together that makes a great impact. And Missy sure makes an impact. I always think that was the reason I was given neither looks or a figure...I would have just caused too much trouble..lol So I live the glamorous life through my friends..shoes, clothes and all sorts of accessories (handbags, phones and charms). And this way I get to enjoy the finer things in life..without the bill..lol. But I would really love one day to have a pair of glamorous shoes..but that won't be happening anytime soon with the size my foot has now become..lol

It is my opinion that my good foot has now turned into a mutant trotter..lol. I had the nurse today to look at it again. It is a small wound but doesn't look like healing anytime soon. She is going to come again on Tuesday. I've been told to keep it up to help it go down. Well that's ok but I have visitors coming tomorrow and the carpet isn't going to hoover itself. I'm going to sort it out later and then I'll put it up. I think that 1 hour of speed cleaning will do the job and then I've got the rest of the day to rest. My builder is coming later to fit my new worktop so next week will see me unpacking all my machinery. I just can't wait. At least I can use the wheelchair in the kitchen now...so it really be speed baking once it's all done...lol

My other news is that I'm half way through dying my hair. At the moment I'm a bleached blonde...very nearly white in places..lol. Now brace yourselves..it's going green later. A darkish green for the festive season.I always promised Henry that I would grow old disgracefully and dying my hair is about the best I can do at the moment. I have some amazing green and orange earrings which I bought form Annettes Beads. She has a facebook page and wow, she has some amazing stock. She has made me some beautiful earrings and bracelets..if you get a chance pop over and have a look.I think my earrings will go so well with my hair. You will definitely see me coming..lol

The weather here in the mountains today is a day that see's all the cats inside. We are having sideways rain..lol.It looks all misty out there because the rain is coming in sheets. Jeffrey is lay on my legs like a living hot water bottle. He's not having much fun though..Raven thinks that it is her place and she is on my knees trying to push him off. Milky and Tankie are on their couch cushions and Reg is in his good mood bed. We have decided that he has a good mood and bad mood bed..lol. The biggest dog bed has him in it most of the time..but we have noticed that if he gets told off for something..he takes himself off to the smaller dog bed.. I don't know what bed he will be in tomorrow when Doodles the dog comes to visit. We shall have to wait and watch the beds..lol

Well the coffee is calling and after the caffeine comes the hoovering and dusting. Keep your fingers crossed that it all goes well. Henry would have laughed so much seeing me with a duster in my hands. He always said that my hands were made for crafting and not cleaning. Well today they will have to do both..just hoping my legs let me. So until tomorrow take care and happy crafting.

A Cardinal Decoration

Todays creation is a hanging decoration. I made this as a design team make for the team over at the Crafting Musketeers Challenge Blog. I have used this wonderful digi design from Delious Doodles. The theme is 'Anything but a card'. I had bought a couple of the blank decoration shape, and decided to use them as my ase. I coloured and cut out the image of the cardinal and the holly and the berries.I used my copics to colour them. The ornament shapes I painted with my acrylics and then added snow (white acrylic) and glitter. I used a tartan ribbon to attach the two shapes together and to create a hanging ribbon. More and more I'm seeing images of cardinals..they are the american christmas bird and seem to appear where in this country we would use a robin. I said the other day that I hadn't seen our garden robin. Well last night we had our first proper frost and this morning..there he was, sat on my gate. He looked as round as he was high..bless him...he had obviously been stocking up on his food.ready for the winter..

What a day I had yesterday. My ankle has carried on getting larger. I looked quite a bit as if I had a mutant foot last night..lol. The good thing was that it went down in the night but as soon as my foot hit the floor back it came. So it's looks as if I'm I'll be spending the day with the blessed thing up again. As I've got visitors coming at the weekend, I'm going to have to drag it round tomorrow come hell or high water and get some housework done. No doubt I will have lots of cat help. Jeffrey came home last night. Goodness knows where he had been but he had lots to say and demanded a lot to eat..lol. He then sat on me until bedtime and then proceeded to spent the night on my chest. Every time I opened my eyes..there he was looking straight at me..lol

Well the coffee is calling and I have lots of work to do. I did some baking last night..yes it was scones again, but this time I used sultanas. I normally do currant or cherry ones but as I only had sultanas in the cupboard that was what I made. I think that one with my coffee will be the perfect way to start my crafting day. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting.

Fairy Door

Well here it is..my fairy door. Well it's a bit more than a door...but I got so into painting it..it got a bit bigger. It's now attached to my landing wall and I've even found a minature milk bottle which I'm going to add in front of the door. What I really like is the fact that I can see it from my bed. A bit of nonsense I know but it brings a smile to my face..lol I hope that social services will appreciate my humour..lol. They don't like the flying witches in the living room so I don't know what they will make of the fairy door and Dave the fish who is soon to be found swimming from my bathroom ceiling..lol. Though you can't see it in the picture the front door has a net curtain up..even fairies value their privacy. It started life as a piece of plywood, then I painted it with acrylics and varnished  when it was finished.

I know that I'm late blogging today but I had an accident this lunchtime and the nurse has just been. I was taking in my tesco order and a piece of board (half a door) fell and caught the back of my ankle. I rang my friend (the PA) and asked if she minded blood and bless her she came over and dealt with it. It took a while to stop bleeding. Because it's the back of my heel, because of my other leg being as bad as it is , I couldn't deal with it without huge pain. She did a fab job. Later this afternoon, about 3p.m. I realised that it was still bleeding  and thought that I'd better phone the nurse. Thank goodness it wasn't my really bad leg..else I would have had to go to hospital. I also noticed that my ankle had swollen on one side and looked really strange. The nurse has dressed it and is coming back on Friday..she says the last thing we need is any more problem with my legs.I always say that waist up I could conquer the world but waist down is a total waste of time..lol The nurse has told me to keep the leg up in the hope that the swelling will go down. We shall have to see..so please keep your fingers crossed that it goes ok.

Well the coffee is calling and if I have to sit down, at least I can craft. I'll hopefully have 2 cards to show you tomorrow...both very similar but for different occasions. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting.

The First Robin

Todays card is made using a Sheena Douglas stamp. I stamped the image and a number of the holly leaves that were also on the stamp plate. I mounted the robin onto some mirri board and then created a small wreath using the holly leaves. I coloured the robin and leaves with my copics. The paper is from my extra large stash of christmas themed papers. I have edged the card with a glittered peeloff. I haven't seen our robin this year yet..it comes every year and I see it on the tree. I always think that christmas is on the way. There is something very nostalgic about seeing the robin.When I was little I was convinced that they must be very magical birds because of their colouring.

The weather here in the mountains today is lovely...at the moment. Earlier we had a massive downpour which sent a lot of people dashing out to get their washing off their lines..only to find 2 minutes later, that the sky was blue and not a cloud in the sky. This is the reason that I bought my first tumble dryer. I was so fed up of spending all my winter days surrounded by damp washing, especially when Henry was a baby..I decided no more..and bought my first tumble dryer.And for the extra expense that it makes, to me it has been worth every penny.

I've got a lot planned for today. I need to finish the window in the bathroom...then I can put it back straight..then that's it done...thank goodness. I'm also going to put the ornaments back on the landing and then there will also be ready for visitors. I'm so excited about the weekend..I've friends coming down from Yorkshire. I have lots of card work to do..some birthday cards which will feel strange after all the christmas crafting..lol. So it's going to be a busy day today. I also have a friend coming for dinner so I'll have to make a quiche later as well.

Well the coffee is calling and then with a good dose of caffeine, the work will go quickly. My friend has also just brought some decorations round to be painted..that's something I'll love doing because that at least will involve sitting down...giving my poor legs a moment to recover..lol. So until tomorrow..have a great day, take care and happy crafting.

Talking to Teddy

Todays card is a design team make for the wonderful team over at JB-Crafting Supplies.I have used a stamp set designed by Jayne Nestorenko. I made a similar card last Monday. I used the little gitl but removed the cat and replaced it with the teddy. I also used the bed end as a focal piece and the knitting basket. I coloured all the images with my copics. I mounted the images onto some pink snowflake paper onto which I had created a glittered paper border. The white poinsettia is from my stash. I thought that this would make a lovely card for a little girl.

Well it is really cold here today in the mountains. It's the sort of day that you should have your vest on..lol. Henry used to say that living here in the mountains you put your vest on in September and were lucky if you got to take it off by April. (It was washed in between..lol)When it gets cold like this I'm often found searching for my socks. I have pairs of really toasty socks that I put away in the  spring and I feel that it's time to hunt them out. I think that it's also time to get the lap blankets out. With my bad legs, I have to keep them warm. I've found out over the years that they can get over cold without me noticing and then I have a whole lot of trouble. So rather than have that happen, I have a fleece blanket. It's really light and really warm..so warm in fact it attracts the cats..who think I've put it on just for them..lol. At this very moment Raven is on my lap and doesn't look like moving any time soon.

But move she will have to later. My plan for today is to finish the white gloss painting..the window, sill and doorframe in the bathroom...the shelves on the landing and the parlour door frame. Then hopefully tomorrow I can put all the books and ornaments back in their rightful places. I am hoping that I can paint the new sink cupboard tomorrow. So the plan is to do the painting as soon as I've finished blogging and then no doubt it will be time to make dinner. I'm making toad in the hole with mashed potatoes, carrots and onion gravy...just the thing when it's chilly outside. And add to the fact that it's a cheap meal...autumn and winter is my favourite time to cook. I can add lots of vegetables to very little meat and make it last. My Grandmother taught me to cook and taught me how to make a little go a long way. I love to bake as well...Henry used to love my cakes. I am hoping to get back to baking when my kitchen is finiished...and to also getting the slow cooker out.

Well the coffee is definitely needed today. A good dose of caffeine will see me through all the painting. I hope you all have a good day. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting.

Winter Journal

Todays creation is a winter journal. It is a design team make for the wonderful team over at the Crafting Musketeers Challenge Blog. This months sponser is Delicious Doodles. The image that I've used on the cover of the journal is one of their digis. As a team we were given a range of their designs to work with and it was so very hard to choose just which one to use. The theme for this months challenge is anything but a card. I would love you to go and look at what the other design team members have created..there is some beautiful work and it's a fabulous source.of inspiration.I used the digi to provide the cover of the journal. As it is a hard backed book, I first painted the cover with acrylics, in various shades of purple and lilacs. For the image, I coloured her with my copics and then glittered her hair, dress and bracelets.I also glittered the snowflake that she is holding...well as you know by now..I just had to..lol. One of Henrys friends was here the other week and helped me get all my glitters together and I don't think that he could believe just how many colours I had. And all the different types..glitter glue, fine glitter, ultra fine glitter, chunky glitter, tinsel glitter and all the colours of the rainbow. Looking at my collection, I do seem to have a bit of a thing for greens and purples..lol.

Well the building work is continuing. Today it is the sinks turn to be made over. I had the sink made higher than normal when I had it fitted originally and it was never finished.So basically what I had was a double drainer sink unit on a frame. Well today it is all about to change. My builder is going to put a door underneath the sink and an end on the unit...there will no longer be any way that any little cat with nasty intentions can get under there. The big problem you see is that the space under the sink actually goes back about 5 foot due to it also going under the windowsill. So after today I will have a door and also tiles. Tomorrow I will be painting the whole thing white. I do feel that after last week, I should have a pant brush attached permanently to my right hand..lol..and the trouble is that the more that I do..the more I think wants doing.

I am being quite firm with myself. There are lots that I could be doing but I'm going to rest my legs today, to give myself a head start tomorrow. They are really hurting today...I don't know why but some days are a lot worse than others. All the cats have had their breakfast, so they're at least giving me a little bit of peace. They all have little spots of strange colours all over them...they just can't help themselves...they're just so nosy...lol

Well the coffee is calling and I've just remembered a card that I have to do. I hope that you're having a good weekend. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting

Christmas Baubles

Todays card is a design team make for the Gruffies and Guests Challenge Blog. The theme is Christmas and it has been sponsered by the great team over at Scribble and Scrap Crafts. They have been kind enough to offer a £10 voucher, to be spent at the online store as a przie for the winner. Well worth a go. So why not pop over to the page and have a look...there is a link on the side bar of my blog.For this card I mounted the image and the backing paper onto some christmas red card.I love this image of the gruffie carrying the decorations. The image itself and the backing paper is from The Gruffies and Happy Hoppers cdrom brought to us crafters by Joanna Sheen. The other card that I have made for this months challenge features a Happy Hopper...well I just had to have a rabbit..I will share that one with you half way through the challenge. I do hope that you will think about entering...if you need any inspiration..the rest of the team have created some fabulous cards. I have embellished the card using my diecut decorations and foliage.I hope that you like it.

I never knew how I was going to feel about Halloween, with missing Henry and all the memories of Halloween past ut it turned out to be a joy. One of my friends was bringing a group of children round the village, trick and treating and arranged to bring them to my house. As you know my parlour is upstairs by the window ( the biggest cat flap in the world) and if you are standing on the path..you can't always see me. When they arrived, I put Raven on the windowsill and all they could see was the cat. As I spoke...one little girl said..look..look..the cat is talking. And all the children were convinced that this black cat was speaking to them. Even a couple of the parents were taken in. It was so sweet and so funny...it made my night. Henry would have definitely have approved. I hope that you all had a good evening..whether you celebrate Halloween or not.

Even though we had some terrible weather in the night..today is at least dry for the moment. My kitchen cupboards are going in, my electric sockets are going in and the excitement is getting to me..lol. So next week hopefully I will be unpacking the crates. It has been so long since my kitchen has been all packed up, I can't wait to get it all out and have a play.I just need to have the little bits finished and then, hopefully all my paintings can go up, the crates can be unpacked and I can then take some photos to share all the madness with you..lol

Well the coffee is calling and I've lots of christmas cards to make. I hope that you all have a fabulous weekend. So until tomorrow..take care and happy crafting..