Crafty Clare

Sarah Hurley Challenges- Birthdays

2012-03-02T13:44:00.005Z

Afternoon all, have we all got that great Friday feeling? I can positively say I did not have the Friday feeling at 5am this morning when Arran woke me up with a nose bleed. In fact I think it wasn't until well after 10am that I felt almost human again lol You can't beat a good dose of caffeine, a nice warm bubbly bath and music blasting out your stereo...oh and a wee cat nap lol So it's fair to say my kiddie free morning turned out not too bad afterall.

I was planning to spend a couple of hours out the garden this afternoon but my beautiful spring day has turned into a wet and cold one :-( Which is a real bummer as I really miss potting about in my garden, I think the last time I spent some quality time out in my garden was last October. Yikes where has the time gone lol

So this afternoon I'm sharing with you my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. Our theme this week is a nice and easy one

BIRTHDAYS

And while were are on the subject of birthdays like to say a huge Happy Birthday to some of my wonderful dt gals who have birthdays this month. I hope you all have a fabulous day and get spoiled rotten.

Check out my card below which was made using Sarah's Mermaid Collection. This octopus is such a cutie and I just love the wave paper, it may well me my new favourite lol

Well I best be off I need to make a start on 60 mothers day cards for my toddler group and I've got til this Monday to finish, so enjoy your weekend and I hope it's an amazing one!

hugs Clare x

p.s thanks for all the lovely comments you have left this week you are all too kind!

Charisma -Masking Challenge

2012-03-01T13:13:00.002Z

Afternoon all, how are we today? I have a poorly 5 year old today who is feeling rather sorry for himself so it's looking likely that we won't be venturing far. I am hoping that Calpol will work it's magic soon but until then I think a hug or two will be on the cards.Don't you just love a good hug?( if such a thing exists), they are perfect for a whole host of reasons. Whether it be of comfort or joy or when you have finally meet up with a friend of loved one after a long period of time or it could be in those moments when words fail us. But for me I think the best hugs of of all are the unexpected ones or the just because ones, I do love the simple things in life lol So go on give hug lol

Anyway the reason for my post today is to let you all know there's a brand new challenge over at Charisma.It's team Gem's turn this week so there's is no dt card from me but I will be back later tonight with my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. Christel is our host this week and she has chosen

MASKING

It's not something I do often and although it looks very intimidating I do wish I had the time to join in this week after all it wouldn't be called a challenge if it didn't challenge us..right lol

So please pop on over here to check out the winners for last weeks challenge and the prizes and inspiration for this weeks challenge.

Catch you all later

hugs Clare

SFTW DT Card- Bingo

2012-02-24T09:35:00.008Z

Good morning my lovelies how are we all today? You could hear a pin drop in my house this morning..why?.. because my two little monsters are at nursery..bliss. I'm having a very chilled out morning but I will have to squeeze in a little housework as the boys have a play date this afternoon.

I'm sharing with you my dt card for Stampin For The Weekend.My lovely dt teamie Heidi-Mari is hosting this weeks challenge and she has chosen the following challenge

BINGO

and this week we are being sponsored by

If you have never tried a bingo challenge before then pop on over here

For this card I decided to use my monster boy stamp from squiggle stamps. I've said this many times before but this has got to be one of my all time favourite stamps, just perfect for those little monsters lol I'm disappointed that the picture isn't that great because it looked fab in real life and I was really pleased with my colouring. And being a sucker for spots and stripes which Mel will confirm this lol , I dug out my favourite Claire Curd papers and I've used my scrabble stamps again!! lol

and another

Thankyou for stopping by today and I'd like to say a huge hello to my new followers, hope your weekend will be a wonderful one and I hope you'll pop by again soon.

hugs and kisses

Clare x

Charisma DT card- Love Is In The Air

2012-02-23T08:00:00.003Z

Goodmorning all, I'm afraid this is a scheduled post from me as I'm hoping to be out running while both children are at nursery. The plan is to run 5k, grab a cuppa and perhaps chill out for a bit before the children need picking up, so fingers crossed the rain stays off, if not I'll just go on my treadmill.

Today we have a new challenge over at Charisma and this time it was my turn to choose the theme. Seeing as it's February I just had to have a love themed week so I called it

Love Is In The Air

challenges...

Dream Valley- just for men
MAWTT- Layers
Fussy and Fancy Friday Challenge- With All my heart

Now you are never going to believe me when I say this but I actually made this card a couple of months ago. I know it's shocking, especially when I should've been busily making those all important Christmas cards. In fact I remember that day as if it was yesterday. Hubby was out with the lads in Edinburgh so I had planned an hour of crafting followed by a night of christmas present wrapping. I had Michael Buble's Christmas album blasting out my stereo and a lovely chilled bottle of rose wine just screaming to be opened...now you can't get better than that lol

I decided to use my favourite Forever Friends stamp and I have to confess it has been very very neglected. I really should hang my head in shame because it was my very first stamp that I bought and I remember being super excited and I couldn't get home quick enough to start colouring lol.

I had recently bought a few promarkers from the ice grey colour section and I was itching to try a monochrome card but seeing as it was for a love challenge I couldn't resist adding a bright red heart. I was amazed at how easily this card came together and I absolutely love how it has turned out....in fact I may just keep it!

Please pop on over to Charisma and check out the fabulous prizes up for grabs and if you can leave some love on the dt's personnal blogs. I'm pretty sure they'd be delighted to hear from you.

So that's pretty much from me, so enjoy the rest of your day and if you can be one thing...be happy

hugs Clare x

Happy Friday

2012-02-17T08:13:00.005Z

Goodmorning peeps, happy friday to you all! It's day 3 of the school hols and Im going to say this very quietly as the children are in ear shot and I'd hate to jinx things. But the children and I have had a ball and not a tantrum in sight lol.

The weather has been great, fluffy clouds,blue skies and at certain times of the day it's actually been warm, just perfect for an afternoon in the park. If the boys are not having a kick around with the football, they're scurrying about the play park equipment trying to see who can climb the highest, who can slide down the chute the fastest or who can hold on to the monkey bars the longest,boys being boys.But as well as being amongst the laughter and the screams, I also love to sit on the bench and absorb everything around me taking in memories that will be with me forever. I really should dig out some of the photos and create some scrapbook pages, perhaps that a job for a rainy day.

So onto today's card that I would like to share with you. It's my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges and our theme this week is

DIE CUTS

and we are luckily to be sponsored by

who have this amazing prize up for grabs

I was given the opportunity to have a wee play with TH tattered floral dies.However I have to confess as much as I am in awe of this man and the many amazing creations I have seen while blogging, the whole world of TH style actually scares the hell out of me. So it's not surprising to hear I only have a few inks and armed with these and a LOTV background stamp this is what I came up with.

Please check out the other dt's projects and hope you are able to join us.

Enjoy your weekend when it comes and I'll catch up with you all soon.

hugs Clare

Charisma DT card- Things with Wings

2012-02-09T09:28:00.006Z

Morning all how are we? I can't believe another fortnight has whizzed by. Hubby has been jetting back and forth to France with work so it's been rather hectic here trying to juggle work commitments and family life. It's fair to say my children have a better social life than me at the moment, they have had endless parties and play dates and there's more on the way.However I did manage to squeeze in a well deserved and overdue night out with me best friend Fiona at the weekend.

Today there's a brand new challenge over at Charisma and jan has chosen the theme

THINGS WITH WINGS

I was asked to make a card for the arrival of a new baby boy called Zac. I've had endless boy cards to make for the month of January but luckily I was prepared and had them made well in advance.

Be sure to pop on over here to see what fabulous prizes we have up for grabs, I can positively say you won't be disappointed.And once again the rest of the Charisma gals have out done themselves again and created some very inspiring projects.

Well I best be off I've got a very important project that needs finishing and a very nerve racking one at that. I'll fill you in later but for now enjoy your morning.

ta ta for now
Clare x

Pretty In Pink

2012-01-26T20:40:00.003Z

Evening how are we all? Hubby's been in France all week so it's been rather hectic in the Broons hoose trying to juggle work and family life. But I did managed to squeeze in some crafting time Monday night and Tuesday afternoon for an hour or two but I'm gutted to say I haven't managed my daily run. I started running in September and my goal is to run 10k.To date I have managed 6k but would you believe I'm loaded with the cold again, 3rd one this year, so there will be no running for me anytime soon grrrrrr. On a more positive note my fitness level has improved dramatically and it's great having dropped a dress size which only means one thing, I need to go on a shopping spree for new clothes,whoop whoop lol

Anyway enough of my babbling tonight I have my dt card for our new challenge over at Charisma and our theme this week is

Pretty In Pink

Once again we have some amazing prizes up for grabs and the dt have oodles of inspiration so please pop on over here

It's an early bed for me but be sure to pop by my blog tomorrow when I will share my dt card for Stampin For The Weekend.

Ta Ta for now

hugs Clare xxx

Out With The Old

2012-01-13T15:43:00.003Z

Hey peeps how are you all? You might want to grab a cuppa and a chair because I'm about to go off in a rant lol
You see I was so looking forward to today, for the first time ever both my children were supposed to be in nursery from 9 til 11.30 and it was meant to be chill out time for me but nooooooooooooooooo!! Friday the 13th had other ideas :-( instead my car decided not to start which is just the biggest disaster for me as I had to get two children to two different nurserys for 9 o'clock and I had 3 mins to do it in. So I had to drop one child off which took 5 mins to walk, then walk 20 mins to lewis's nursery, get him sorted, walk another 20 mins back to house, spent the next hour tidying to then walk another 20 mins to Lewis's nursery.Once he was collected that left me 25 mins to make a quick detour to farmfoods and the final 20 min walk to the school to collect Arran then home. But just because I was home it didn't meant I could put my feet up, no I had to get lunch sorted then finish the housework all in an hour because we had the estate agent arriving at 1pm arghhhhh. It's now 4pm and finally I can grab a quick cuppa and write this post before it's time to make a start on dinner. That bottle of rose wine is def getting opened tonight and there's no question about it the children will be in bed early.....rant now over phew! lol

Anyway enough of my ramblings, lets talk craft. Today over at Stampin For The Weekend we have our first challenge of the year. And our theme this week is

OUT WITH THE OLD.

Nice and easy eh??

Below is a tag I made for a birthday present and yes I know it's Edwin again but I did warn you lol

I have to apologise for the rubbish picture, it was taken when we had the storms and although these have past we haven't had a bright day since to do a retake.

Well I best be off got so much to do and I really want to fit in my 3k run before kids are in bed. So I hope you all have a fab weekend and hopefully you'll pop by again soon.

hugs Clare x

New Beginnings

2012-01-12T20:25:00.004Z

Evening all, what an emotional roller coaster of a day I've had. Lewis my youngest started his first ever day at nursery this morning and although it's such a huge and exciting time in both our lives my tummy was still full of butterflies and my eyes were a little bit teary. Of course tomorrow will be the biggest test when he goes solo, kleenex will def be the must have accessory.

Tonight I'm sharing with you my dt card for Charisma and would you believe it's Charisma's 3rd birthday. To help celebrate we have 7 amazing prizes up for grabs and the perfect theme

BIRTHDAYS

So please join us in the celebrations and pop over here

I seem to have an abundance of little boy birthday's this month but this one in particular was made for a good friend of mine. I think it's fair to say I'm in love with my superhero Edwin, so be warned he will be popping up regularly these next few weeks.

Please pop by tomorrow when I'll be sharing my dt project for Stampin For The Weekend.

hugs Clare x

Exciting Times Ahead

2012-01-05T21:51:00.003Z

I did promise I'd be back to share my news even if it is tad later than planned. Earlier Lewis took a tumbling and managed to burst his lip. He's managed to get himself in a right mess, blood everywhere, a very enlarged lip and screaming that's still ringing in my ear. Good news is he's doped with Calpol and sleeping like a baby, I'm hoping it stays that way throughout the night and I'm so not looking forward to seeing what he looks like in the morning. My poor wee lamb, he's forever getting himself in a pickle.....sounds familiar lol

Anyway onto my news which I've been bursting to tell for months but I was under strict instructions by the 'boss' to keep a tight lip. This week Sarah Hurley launched craft academy! It's a brand new website that will provide weekly inspirational projects and tutorials for all kind of crafts. It's going to be huge and I'm absolutely thrilled to be a part of this new and very exciting adventure. Sarah has posted on her blog all the details but if you want to check out the website then click here.

We also have our first challenge of the year start today and we are sponsored by our very own princess...sarah. Sarah has donated a fabulous prize from her shop and the dt girls have made projects that's will def get your mojo going. I'm sorry to say I don't have a project this week, my printer finally died on me and with holidays and me being poorly I've not manged to hit the shops to get a new one :-(

Please check out our challenge blog here.

I've been a very bad blogger of late but I promise I will swing by your way soon.

hugs Clare x

Over The Rainbow

2012-01-05T15:21:00.004Z

Good day peeps did you all have a wonderful Christmas and New Year? With all the madness of christmas it's been weeks since my last post and today is my first of the new year.

Christmas day was full of excitement from the minute the children woke up to find that santa had been and filled their stockings full of goodies. They seemed to be more excited about the half bitten carrot that was left than the actual presents but that's kids for you, and we all know they are a bit unpredictable at times lol

New Years Eve was celebrated with close friends of mine,of course as usual we ate too much and drank too much pink champagne and we somehow managed to play trivial pursuit. Which to my surprise my team won, I think luck was on my side that night lol Either that or I was less tipsy than everyone else lol

But it hasn't all been happiness, I've really struggled this week with a bad cold and not so good news from my best friend. And no matter how strong you try to be, desperately holding back the tears, they come in floods and your left wondering are they ever going to stop and how much longer is this pain going to last. Everyday I live in hope that everything will be ok, now why didn't I wish for that magic wand that makes everything better lol.

But on a more positive note over at Charisma we have our first challenge of the year and after the horrific storms we have had this week I could do with some sunshine. Leah has chosen the the theme

over the rainbow

and we have some fabulous prizes up for grabs.For more details pop on over here

I made this card for Lewis's 3rd birthday and decided to use bright colours. I'm not a huge Edwin fan but I do love my superhero.

I'll be back later tonight with some super exciting news, if you happen to follow me on facebook then you will already know, if not you'll just have to wait lol

hugs to you all

clare x

Let it Snow

2011-12-16T13:49:00.004Z

After a week of trying to get my printer to work I finally manage to print out this wee image before it finally gave up :-( grrrrrrrr .

This week at Sarah Hurley challenges we are sponsored by Limited Runs Digi's and I was very lucky to be given the opportunity to pick an image of my choice. I just love this little cutie and she is an absolute dream to colour.

Our theme this week is

colouring

and if your looking for inspiration to kick start your mojo then pop on over to the challenge blog here

I have a mountain of ironing that's waiting for me, ignoring it didn't work it's still there and soon enough it will be growing arms and legs lol

take care and hope you all have a fab weekend wherever you are
hugs Clare x

Last Minute Christmas Makes

2011-12-16T13:14:00.004Z

Goodmorning all how are we all? I can't believe it's Friday already, this week has just been so full on. Last saturday we celebrated lewis's 3rd birthday, it's great to see him all grown up but in my eyes he will always be the baby of the family. Isn't that always the way with your youngest lol. We also enrolled Lewis into our local nursery so from the 12th Jan I will have Thursday and Friday mornings just me and the cats. It will be rather odd and very very quiet but the perfect opportunity to get some crafting done.....I think I deserve some me time don't you think lol.

This morning I have my dt card for Charisma and our theme is
Last christmas makes

I'm always rushing about at the last minute, while wishing if I started making my cards earlier. So I'm afraid there will be some shop bought ones being sent but they are charity ones so I don't feel quite so bad.

Well I better dash, I have just heard two kiddies shouting a want a pom pom and that can only mean trouble, they're in my craftroom yikes!!

I'll be back later with my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges

hope you are all well my friends and a huge thankyou for dropping by during this busy season when time is precious.

It's Christmas!!!

2011-12-09T11:07:00.003Z

Good morning peeps, it's absolutley freezing here today brrrrrrrrr and spookily calm after yesterdays hurricane, I hope you all managed to stay safe and warm. Lewis and I nearly got blown off our feet it was so windy and the schools were closed in the afternoon, back to normal today yah lol.

Today I have my dt card for stampin up for the weekend and our theme this week is

christmas

nice and easy eh????

Please check out the fabulous prizes on offer here and some more inspiration from the rest of the design team.

I dug out these papers I bought a couple of years ago, not my normal colour combo green and pink but hey I think it looks pretty good :-) I also used one of my favourite sugar nellie stamp.

Well I better shoot, got Arran to pick up from the nursery. I'll be back over the weekend with my card that was published in a mag a few weeks back...ooops.

take care girlies

hugs clare

Sarah Hurley Challenges

2011-12-02T11:33:00.005Z

Good morning bloggers how are you all today? I'm afraid it's just a quick post from me I'm off to Glasgow for a christmas night out and I'm very unorganised. Why is it when you have a million things that need doing you end up having thee most clingy and demanding 2 year old. Not even Mickey Mouse is helping today and he is normally my saving grace... boo lol

So today there's a new challenge started over at Sarah Hurley Challenges and this week we are sponsored by the one and only Letraset and they have a fabulous prize up for grabs. All challenge details can be found here.

Our theme this week is

Christmas

nice and easy..yeah?? So no excuse for not joining in and if your anything like me I'm so behind on my christmas cards hee hee.

Here's my cas card I made, love the doodling and the white on white. The image was coloured using my promarkers...of course lol.

Hope you are all well and getting into the spirit of Christmas wherever you may be.

hugs to you all

Clare x

Charisma Cardz Challenges- Spots

2011-12-01T09:40:00.007Z

Brrrrr it's bitterly cold this morning. My fingers are tingling and I only walked to the school and back. Oh how I would love a hot chocolate, not forgetting some whipped cream and marshmallows lol

Today I'm sharing with you my card for Charisma. Mr blogger has been very naughty recently so I'm hoping he plays nice today. Shannon has a great challenge for us, she has chosen

SPOTS

I used my beloved CB swiss dots embossing folder but if you would like to see more inspiration please check out the charisma gal projects here. You will also see the amazing prizes we have up for grabs and some new dt's on team Carly.

I used one of my fabulous Titania stamp from Sugar Nellie, one of many I received for my birthday but haven't had the time to ink up yet. Slap on the wrists for me then lol.

challenges

Sketch saturday- sketch
Simon Says- Anything goes
Fab and funky- Anything goes
Craft your days away- buttons or bows

I think I have only managed to make a handful of christmas cards. Every year I live in hope of starting them early and being well organised but somehow Christmas has this bad habit of sneaking up on me. Which is impossible as it's the same date every year, maybe next year will be a success lol.

Well I best be off, I stupidly forgot it's the first of December so the advent calendars are still in that safe place....wherever that may be lol

Take care and thanks for stopping by today. I'll be back later with my card for Sarah Hurley Challenges, details can be found here

hugs Clare x

Challenge Yourself

2011-11-17T20:18:00.005Z

Good evening, how are we all today? Tonight I have two fabulous challenges for you. First I want to show you my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. My fabulous friend Mel has given us the

theme of

buttons

this week.

I've had this idea for a card running through my head for ages now and I was just waiting for the perfect challenge.

I loved the idea of using the deer christmas stamp for a new baby card, I just hope I've managed to pull it off.

Below I have my dt card for this weeks challenge over at Charisma.

Our theme this week is

lace and pearls.

I decided to be brave and try stronger colours, the turquoise I love , the red not so sure, think I need more colours and practice lol

Thats all from me tonight, I'm a very sleepy girl so bed time for me lol

take care and thankyou for taking the time to visit my blog. I know only too well how precious time is and hopefully you'll see me popping by your blog very soon. lol

hugs Clare x

LIght of Mine

2011-11-05T16:53:00.004Z

Good evening bloggers, are any of you peeps heading out to some firework displays tonight. The rain has been off all today so we are hoping its not going to be the usual washout or cancellation.

Tonight I have my dt card for stampin for the weekend and our we have a fabby sketch for you to follow.
For more details please pop over to the blog here

I used this gorgeous Sassy image from Sugar nellie, it's not a christmas stamp but I think it worked out well.

Well that's it for me got to dash, so take care and be safe

hugs Clare x

Tinsel Town

2011-11-04T19:20:00.003Z

Good afternoon peeps how are we all today?I tried posting my dt card last night but Blogger was being naughty again and wouldn't let me upload a picture. I seem to be having a run of bad luck with the internet recently which I have to say has been extremely infuriating to say the least.

Below is my Christmas tag which was made using Sarah's Hurleys newly released Tinseltown cd and I loved it so much I think I'm going to make a few to put on Christmas presents lol

Unfortunately my caramel promarker died on me so my shadowing is not as good as I would like but at least my reindeers brown and not some whacky colour. However on the plus side I do have to visit my local craft shop hee hee.

I'll be back later with my dt card for stampin up for the weekend until then take care and hope your all enjoying this lovely autumnal weekend.

hugs Clare x

More the merrier

2011-11-03T20:26:00.004Z

Good evening all how are we today? I spent the afternoon shopping with my mother in law and I actually bought two christmas presents. I normally have all my shopping done by December but for some reason I'm a little behind.I better get my skates on as I have lewis 's 3rd birthday to organise aswell for the 10th of december, yikes where did the time go lol

Tonight I have my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. It's my challenge this week and I choose the theme of

use more than two images

I absolutely love Sarah's christmas cheer stamps, they stamp really well and they are so easy to colour.

I
Sarah has a brand new christmas digi cd out tomorrow so please drop by again tomorrow to see my dt project or head on over to Sarah's blog here.

Well I better be off, Ive just got my internet back on and hubby is giving me the evil eye, thats code for get off the pooter I need it lol.

So take care
and thanks for dropping by and leaving some love.

clare x

Boo!!

2011-10-21T14:29:00.007+01:00

Good afternoon, did I just hear a * rumor * it's Friday, squeeeeeeel to confirm please lol Today I'm sharing with you my DT card for Stampin For The Weekend

and our theme this week is

SPOOKY

As Halloween approaches we would love to see some super spooky projects and just a little reminder we must see stamping somewhere on your project

Sarah Hurley has recently released a Halloween digi kit and I have to say I had an absolute ball. I had forgotten how much fun Halloween crafting can be. It was about late summer when the children and I had went strawberry picking for the second year running and this year. However this year I decided to try jam making, I know who would have thought lol. My inspiration came from a very good friend of mine who had made some plum jam earlier on in the year. Of course that day she had also made some homemade scones so it was a double treat hee hee. Anyway here's my little offering

*****

*****
If you would like to join in the fun just click here

Ooops just realised the time,better dash lol
where ever you hope you have a lovely weekend.

hugs Clare x

A Toast

2011-10-20T21:06:00.006+01:00

Good evening peeps how are we today?If I'm honest I've been struggling with this post,I just cant find the right words, too much going on in that head off mine lol So I'm going to cut right to the chase and tell you about our fab new challenge over at Sarah Hurley Challenges.

This week our theme is

MISTING

did I just hear you gasp lol I know I did when I first read the challenge. The truth is it's not that scary in actual fact it's really really fun and that's coming from someone who just doesn't do messy hee hee.

For this challenge I just had to use Sarah's teal ink spray, I just love the colour and the results you get are amazing, even I can point and spray lol

recipe
stamps - lotv music background stamp
- sarah hurley cocktail and mitten stamp
-scrabble stamps
tools- x cut snowflake punch,nestie
mist spray- Sarah Hurley (teal)
stash-gems,black cord
stickles-star dust

I decided to create a christmas card, not only is it my favourite time of year but as usual I never make enough always rushing about at the last min. The bright teal colour also reminded me of my love for cocktails so this stamp was just perfect.

If you want to join us this week then pop on over here

Well that's all from me tonight, but please pop by tomorrow

take care my lovelies

hugs Clare x

Xmas wishes

2011-10-13T08:00:00.001+01:00

Good morning girlies hope your all having a fab week, I know I am. Today I'm sharing with you my dt card for Charisma and we were lucky enough to be given an image of our choice from Some Odd Girl. I instantly fell in love with Mistletoe Kaylee, I wonder who she is hoping to catch under her mistletoe lol. The sentiment was created myself using my favourite scrabble letter stamps and the LOTV music background stamp was a recent birthday gift from a very special friend of mine....you know who you are lol

Our theme this week is

stitching

challenges I am entering are

Some Odd Girl - sketch

Ive had a very busy morning, I've been out and about with Lewis but now we are chilling out enjoying some pancakes with my home made jam, yum yum.

The children are off next week for the october break so I'm praying the rain stays away or I can see trouble ahead lol

Hope you all have a fabby weekend and a huge thankyou for all your lovely comments.

take care
hugs Clare x

Colours of Autumn

2011-10-07T09:39:00.005+01:00

Good morning peeps are we having a lovely morning?

As I sit here writing my post ,the sun is shining and those blue skies are so deceiving tricking you into thinking it's warm but no it's bitterly cold outside. I have to confess I do enjoy the autumn weather. I think it's the thought of getting all wrapped up cosy and warm in my hat,gloves and scarf. Also this time of year the children do love playing in the woods collecting leaves,helicopters, conkers and having contests to see who can find the biggest stick. When we return home the leaves are stuck on paper, the conkers are transported about the house in the boys trucks and the helicopters are dropped from the top of our upstairs landing to the hall below.It's fascinating to watch the helicopters spiral so effortlessly and it's hard not to join in the fun lol

Well enough of my ramblings, I've got to tell you about a fabulous new challenge today over at Stampin For The Weekend. We are sponsored by Simon Says Stamp and they are offering some guilt free shopping, so whats stopping you pop on over here!!

Our Theme this week is

Colours of Autumn

I dug out one of my favourite gorjus girls stamps and my yummy bloom and grow papers.

The dt girls have done an amazing job with their autumnal projects this week so please pay them a visit here and leave some love.

I've got a busy weekend ahead of me,shopping catching up with friends I've not seen for months, taking the boys swimming and a little bit of diy around the house. I might even convince hubby to take the boys to cinema so I can get some much needed crafting time. So take care and hope you all have a fabulous weekend.

hugs Clare x

so spooky

2011-10-06T22:03:00.004+01:00

Good evening peeps how are you all ? I know I've not been around much these last couple of weeks but with a poorly wee boy, a heavy work load and my friend determined we get fit I've been a rather busy bee.

I'm back tonight with my dt project for Sarah Hurley Challenges. I've made a halloween milk carton treat box using elements from Sarah's whimsey halloween cd. Don't you just love halloween?It's the perfect opportunity to be a big kid and there's always an abundance of sweets lol

If you've not guessed already our theme is

Halloween Horrors

We are sponsored by Derwent and they have a fabulous prize up for grabs, I'm gutted I can't enter.Who wouldn't love the chance to win 24 of their amazing coloursoft pencils.For more details about the challenge and to see the amazing projects from the rest of the design team then pop on over here

That's all from me tonight but please drop by tomorrow as I have my SFTW dt card.

Night Night

hugs Clare x

so vintage

2011-09-23T21:35:00.004+01:00

Hello peeps how are your spending the start of your weekend? Im curled up on the couch enjoying a wee cheeky blue wicked about to watch the other boleyn girl film. Not quite sure how long I'll be able to stay awake though lol

tonight I share my project for sarah hurley challenges, another wee tag. I'm loving these at the minute and I'm considering making a few for xmas presents.

Our theme this week is

vintage

Hope you enjoyed my project, I'll be back over the weekend with some halloween projects.

hugs Clare x

Charisma Cardz Challenges- SKY

2011-09-15T13:14:00.006+01:00

Good morning bloggers how are we today. It's a gorgeous day here, blue skies and a few white fluffy clouds but its very very cold. Now normally I'd be out tidying the garden getting it all cleared for the autumn/winter but I have a poorly wee boy today so no going out for me or my eldest Arran. Mmmm might try and get some colouring done that's if I can scrape lewis off my body lol

Talking of weather we have a fabulous challenge over at Charisma this week and without trying to be too biased it's a goodie.

Our theme this week is

sky

I have had these sky papers for years, hubby was on a business trip to America and he came back with some amazing papers and embellishments. It was a lovely surprise to find them in his suitcase other than the usual dirty laundry lol.

I have used lots of my all time favourite things on my card this week, my love of LOTV stamps, my flower punch and my rafia lace. I have also used my recent addiction sizzix tag die and my fabulous Sarah Hurley cloud stamp. I think clouds are on trend at the moment as I've seen loads of blogs using them.

Now you know me I love my blue promarkers so this was the perfect excuse to dig them out lol If your interested the colours I used are china blue, cornflour and blue pearl.

looking for a challenge then check out these

sarah hurley challenges- recycle

stampin for the weekend- tickled pink

Well thats all from me today

Ta Ta

hugs Clare x

Tickled pink

2011-09-09T19:23:00.004+01:00

Hello my lovelies, how are you all. Hubby very kindly brought home a bottle of rose wine and a curry so this is one appointment I'm not going to be late for. Tonight I share with you my dt card for Stampin up for the Weekend, it's a thankyou card my mum asked me to make. It's been ages since I have inked up this manga in fact I had forgotten I had her!!

The theme this week is

Tickled pink

I made an envelope pocket card for a wee change and it's not as difficult as I thought.

Well that's me for now. Hubby has got me some Sugar Nellie stamps for my birthday (sunday) so I might have a card to share soon.

ta ta

clare

Sarah Hurley dt card

2011-09-08T20:02:00.008+01:00

Good evening bloggers, how are we this week? Today we have a brand new challenge over at Sarah Hurley Challenges and the fabulous Natalie has a fantastic challenge this week for you guys.She has chosen the theme

RECYCLING

Now the only recycling I do is the rubbish bins at home so this was a huge challenge for me. but you know what, it was so easy. I just went with the flow, normally I fret over every single detail, always clean and simple and everything just has to be perfect, no flaws. it just in my dna to be like that. But sometimes it feels like hard work, always aiming for the perfect card. But it wasn't about that today, it was about having fun, trying this, trying that and everything just seemed to work so effortlessly. It's like I've thrown the rule book out of the window and the funny thing is in my eyes it's turned out the same way, perfect. So thanks Nat for getting me out of my comfort zone. So this is what all the fuss been about...

*** challenges ***

stamp something-use a dig
OSATT- use a digi
totally papercraft-not a card.

and another

This time I have used scraps from previous cards, that didn't quite make it or it's been recycled likethe kraft card from a papermill box. It's quite funny, while I was making the card the string kept moving, bending not the way I would like but today I just thought bugger it leave it be and I really love the quirky look. Also it's not about what you don't have but what you do have. I used this weeks fabulous sketch over at sketch saturday and they show lots of bunting some stamps some dies. if your like me I don't own any so what did I do make my own lol isn't that what us crafters do lol

**** challenges ****

sketch saturday- sketch
papertake weekly- anything goes
creative card crew- anything goes
paperplay challenges.- 2 or more stamped images

I have rambled way too much tonight but before I go I want to say a huge thankyou for all your lovely comments recently and to all my new followers.

Enjoy the rest of tonight and I'll be back tomorrow.

nigh night

clare x

Sleepy bunny

2011-09-01T21:09:00.005+01:00

I can't believe how tired I am today, I think my hectic week finally caught up with me big style. Of course I have a million and one things to do tonight, well 5 really but I am really struggling to keep my wee eyes open. I may need to delegate 4 of them to hubby I think asking him to make a card would be pushing it lol.

Anyway we have another fabulous challenge over at charisma and our theme is

ANYTHING GOES

So be adventurous as you like or keep it simple.

I choose the simple route and as usual I added a little gingham. You weren't expecting anything else were you? I have a new project banging about my head and I can promise you there's not a gingham paper in sight lol.

Here is my card, colour combo green and black so not me but love the look.

I used this gorgeous image from sugar nellie and followed an amazing sketch over at the sugar bowl challenge blog. I am def going to make another card using this sketch so many possibilities. Well that's me folks for today and hopefully I'll be tucked up in bed before midnight. So take care and thanks for popping by

luv ya

Clare x

Food for thought

2011-08-26T12:45:00.004+01:00

I'm so happy it's Friday, it really has been a challenging week for myself and the family so we will def be having a very relaxing weekend. Arran started back at school so the first week is very tiring for him and Lewis started back at toddler group so he was a very tired little boy too. I know in a couple of weeks time all will be 'normal' in the broons hoose so until then i may need a rant or two along the way or I'll get a room sound proofed and give out an almighty scream.

Today I have a project to share with you that I made for Sarah hurely challenges.

Our theme is

bling and sparkle

and I had just the perfect idea,reindeer dust. Now I know it's a bit early to be thinking christmas but sarah's stamp was just so cute I just couldn't resist. Of course when the children asked what I had made they got all excited that santa was on his way. I just didn't have the heart to say it's won't be for a few months yet so I'm praying they'll forget and soon.

Hope you all have a lovely weekend and I'll catch up with you all soon.

hugs Clare x

Apple of my eye

2011-08-19T20:51:00.005+01:00

Good evening bloggers, I'm a little later than normal with this post but the day seems to have run away from me.I'm trying to squeeze in so much with the children before the school starts on Tuesday plus got work to get organised for too.Anyway here's my dt card for stampin for the weekend and our theme is

holidays

The children and I always go fruit picking during the summer holidays so thought this image was perfect. I was lucky enough to win this little cutie over at the sassy blog hop a few weeks back.

I've kept it fairly simple, how could I possibly cover up my gingham papers lol

challenges

sugar bowl- sketch

well that's it for me

ta ta for now

Clare x

Charisma DT card

2011-08-18T11:46:00.004+01:00

Goodmorning bloggers I can't believe it's the final week of the summer hols, boy has it went by in a flash this year!!

Anyway it team Carly's week at Charisma so I have a card to share with you today. Our theme this week is

Negative Space

what I hear you shout, well it's simple really all you have to do is create a card using no more than a 1/3rd of the space.

my mojo went on holiday this week but I did manged to create something I was ok with. I even dug out my very neglected forever friends stamp, swiping off the dust before i inked it up lol

We have amazing sponsors this week and we even have our very own facebook challenge prize too.You will find all the details here

Please pop by tomorrow when I have my dt card for Stampin up for the weekend.

ta ta for now

hugs Clare

Sarah Hurley dt card

2011-08-11T08:00:00.000+01:00

Goodmorning bloggers how are you all? The children are still off on their school holidays and amazingly we are surviving, no sign of world war 3 just yet. On Saturday I took the children to a farm in South Queensferry where we went raspberry and strawberry picking,we go every year and we always have a ball. Lewis was desperate to make jelly with added strawberries so we did that Monday and yesterday I made strawberry jam for the very first time. Sarah has gorgeous gingham paper on her oz cd so I printed some out to decorate the lids, I love the fact I can just print off the papers there and then. I'm not sure if it's the fact that gingham reminds me of tartan but I am seriously getting addicted to it lol.It was a bit dull in Larbert today so as soon as the sun makes an appearance I will get a piccy of my jam and post here.

I have my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges and funnily enough I used gingham again....are you bored yet!!! I also used Sarah's flower and leaf stamps which I stamped directly onto the paper and cut out. The bird is a template I down loaded, printed onto Sarah's papers and 3d using foam pads.Our theme this week is

STITCHING

fake or real it doesn't really matter.

I done 3 little cross stitches using a paper piercer and black cord, not bad for a first attempt and I was really surprised how relaxing and enjoyable it was to do. I might be brave and have another go so watch this space.

Well I better dash got lots to do and not very much time so ta ta for now

hugs Clare x

purfect

2011-08-05T19:46:00.006+01:00

Oh how I would love to say that's how my days been but sadly no. I'm not one for spilling my emotions on my blog but today somehow feels different. In actual fact this morning was great, the children and I made chicken and noodle soup then pancakes for a mid morning snack, all was well we are just savoring the last of our pancakes when I could hear a chainsaw, yes you read that correct a chain saw. I knew instantly what was happening, I been waiting for the moment for almost a year now and it wasn't good. Our trees at the other side of our old farm stone wall which were supposidly protected were now being butchered. I swear it felt like someone was ripping my heart apart and all I could do was watch and listen to the blades hacking away one tree at a time. I could feel anger and hate running through every part of my body followed by tears. Why is it that caring so much can hurt?

Recently a friend of mine had recommended writing a journal to help another friend of ours out with a few personal issues. It's something that hasn't really appealed to me til now and I'm not really sure how to go about it but it's something I'm def going to do. I may only ever write one page or perhaps it's the start of something new but I'm pretty certain I manged a smile just thinking about it, that's a good thing right!!

phew feel better after that rant lol Right better get on with my dt card. There's a new challenge over at Stampin for the weekend and

our theme this week is

spots and dots.

I'm still in a sugar rush so out popped this super cute gorjuss girl.

The pictures a bit naff so might have another attempt over the weekend

We are sponsored by the fabulous simon says stamp and the dt have some amazing samples so please check out our blog here.

Early bed for me got strawberry picking in the morning.

ta ta for now
Clare x

Picking Apples

2011-08-04T09:50:00.004+01:00

Good morning crafters, are you getting lots of sunshine your way or have the heavens opened up with a down pour of rain. Unfortunately it's raining for me today so the boys and I will be having a wee crafty morning. It's my mother in laws birthday so the boys will be busy making lots of projects and later we will be of to gymnastics then hitting the shops to get some cake,yummy!!!

Today I have my dt card for Charisma and once again I have used a sweet sugar nellie image called picking apples. She's quite an old one but I just adore her and I used my very neglected K & Co papers.I used the fabulous sketch from the sugar bowl challenge blog, love it so versatille.

challenge

sugar bowl- kiki's sketch

There's lots of exciting things happening over at Charisma this week so please take a look here!!

This week we have Team Carly playing along and our challenge is...

BINGO

(Pick horizontal or vertical 3!)
- Flowers , Gems, Circles
- Pearls, Masking, Ribbon
- Glitter, Squares, Charms

(Please could we ask that you tell us in your post which you've used! thank you kindly!)

And what can you lovely crafters win this week???

Prize OneWe'd like to give a warm welcome back to our regular sponsor!

One lucky winner will win a $20 Voucher to there online superstore!! (not inc p&p)

Prize Two
PINK CAT STUDIO!!!

We are so thrilled to be able to work with some of Pink Cat Studio's fantastic Digis too! One lucky lady or guy!! Hehe will win 5 Digital Stamps of their choice!! How fab is that?

Pink Cat Studio is all about offering fun and whimsical stamps to inspire your creativity. They have a huge selection of super cute digi and rubber stamps to choose from and they add more each week. Owner and artist Melissa started PCS in 2005 and over the years nothing has excited and inspired her more than to see your creations with her stamps. Melissa’s goal is to continue to delight & surprise you with her designs. Stop by the studio today and get in on the fun!

.

what do you think??? amazing yeah!! well I think so lol

For all of you who are starting your christmas projects Sarah Hurley has a freebie here

Well that's it from me today but I'll be back tomorrow with my dt card for Stampin for the weekend.

Sarah Hurley DT card

2011-07-28T21:44:00.003+01:00

Good evening ladies , I know it's a bit late in the day for my post but mr blogger was not being very nice earlier and it wouldn't let me publish :-(

So lets gets down to busines shall we lol

Tonight I've got my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges to show you. I have used some elements from Sarah's Wonderland cd, don't we all just love a bit of Alice.

Our theme this week is

PUNCH IT

all my cards have some sort of punch, I couldn't image not having them.

I used my ms butterfly punch, woodware flower punch and my x cut corner punch.

One lucky winner will receive a prize from the lovely Sarah, so what you waiting for get punching!!

take care for now

Clare

oh just a little reminder Charisma challenges is now on facebook, give us a shout if you want to join.

Charisma Cardz Challenges- 4 LEGGED ANIMALS

2011-07-28T10:59:00.007+01:00

Good morning everyone is it just me or has this week just flown by. The weather has been fantastic here in Scotland up until today, only in Scotland would you be sitting in 24 degress one day and wake up to rain the next lol.

Today we have a brand new challenge over at Charisma

We have a challenge that you can get your teeth into lol But before I reveal all I would like to say a huge thank you to all you lovely crafters out there who joined Denise's Sunshine challenge.
Your cards could easily brighten up the dullest of days and boy have we had a few of them.

Anyway here's the details of this weeks challenge .....

Our theme this week is

ANIMALS/FOUR LEGGED FRIENDS
(Must have 4 legs!) (no more! no less)

We are proud to have sponsor our Challenges:
Prize One

We'd like to give a huge big welcome back to our monthly sponsor!

Your Choice of SIX single Digi's from Digistamp Boutique! Sally-Ann from Digistamp Boutique! Now i'm sure you've all seen her fabulous work???!? NO?! Well head on over to her Digi shop! there's a digi for everything her work is fantastic and at such a low price too! Sally-Ann is very talented! go on! have a peek! You know you want too!!!

PRIZE TWO
We'd like to give a huge big welcome back to our monthly sponsor!

Bunny Zoe Crafts

Bunny Zoe's Crafts is full of wonderful craft items to make very special cards and crafts from! Nikki is a lovely friendly lady who will make your shopping experience one you'll always keep coming back to!!!
Bunny Zoe's Crafts have a whole array of items in stock from Magnolia Stamps to Charms, from Whimsy Stamps to Ribbon the list is endless why not pop along and see for your self!!!
Including some of the following new arrivals!*PRE-ORDER Magnolia - The Winner Takes It All *NEW Cards Only Magazine No. 20 *House Mouse Restocks *NEW Echo Park - Country Drive and Victoria Gardens *NEW Tickled Pink July Release *NEW Kraftin's Kimmie's July Release *NEW Bildmalarna Stamps *NEW Magnolia Sweet Rainbow DooHickey Dies *NEW Whimsy July Release - Due 15th July

One lucky winner this fortnight will win:

Fabulous or what? Here's my dt card and I my favourite squiggle stamp image (monster boy) very appropriate don't you think lol

paper- wild rose studio (for men collection)
tools- nesties,woodware flowers,sizzix swirls
ribbon- wild orchid crafts,
button and gems stash
sentiment and image- squiggle stamps
promarkers- denim blue,pale blue,ice grey 1, blush,pale pink and almond

challenges I have entered are...

totally gorjuss- punch
passion for promarkers- animal crackers
die cut dreams- Animal antics
creative card crew-Animal antics

thanks for stopping by and leaving me such wonderful comments I really do appreciate them all.

hugs Clare x

Foxy

2011-07-22T09:30:00.000+01:00

Goodmorning and happy Friday to you all!! It's hard to believe we are 4 weeks in to the summer hols and all we have manged to do is attend 2 childrens parties, chicken pox has a lot to answer for.

It was hubby's and I anniversary on Wednesday and today is A's birthdays so it's not been all that bad.

Today I want to share with you my dt card for Stampin Up For The Weekend. Gunn is our host this week and we have an amazing theme

PAWS FOR THOUGHT....

Animals...cats...dogs...anything with 4 legs really.

We have one of our fabulous SFTW candy boxes up for grabs so what you waiting for get crafting and see you over here soon.

I dug out my wonderful Sugar Nellie stamps and decided to have a wee colouring session. Not only was it great fun but I was so relaxed afterwards , it was just what the doctor ordered. For my card I used 'Foxy' and as usual it was coloured using my blue promarkers.

what do you think??

I'll look out for some challenges when I get some more time. And if your on the look out for a couple of great challenges please check out Charisma and Sarah Hurley challenges.

Ta ta for now

hugs Clare x

Christie Angel

2011-07-14T23:18:00.009+01:00

Good evening all, how are you? I have had a very busy day today so this is me just sitting down. I've had my two nieces staying with me so having 4 children to look after or 5 if you include hubby has been pretty hectic but I wouldn't have it any other way.

Tonight I have my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. Our theme this week is

COLOURING

For me blue is my favourite colour when it comes to colouring with my promarkers and my latest addiction is gingham so out came Sarah's OZ collection papers. These are so lush and the best thing is you never run out lol

challenges

MAWTT-favourite things (gingham paper,nesties,ms punch,gems,punched flowers)
SIMON SAYS STAMP CHALLENGE-anything goes
PASSION FOR PROMARKERS- gingham
PAPERPLAY CHALLENGES- things with wings

Well better get off to bed as I seem to be getting to there later and later these days. It's amazing how much I can get done once the children are in bed lol

I have all my dt cards up to date so I might actually have time just to play.So take care and hope you pop by real soon.

hugs Clare x

Catch a Star

2011-07-14T08:00:00.000+01:00

Good morning all, how are we all today? I'm sorry I haven't been around much but I do have a very good reason for that. My eldest son caught the chicken pox virus a couple of weeks ago and just when we had a normal day again it seems my youngest son lewis has caught it aswell. Yesterday only a couple of spots made an appearance but I'm sure more have appeared today. The only upside to it all it's the school holidays so the children are not missing school or nursery and I'm not having to take time out from work.

So today is the start of a new challenge at Charisma and it's my challenge week

our theme is

IT'S IN THE STARS

We have 3 great sponsors this week

Crafty Emma Store, Pink Cat Studio and The Stamping Boutique.
Please pop on over for more details plis check out the amazing projects for the Charisma gals.

dp's Anita
tools- sizzix dies,x-cut punch,scallop nesties, ms doily punch
sentiment- scrabble stamps
pearls- WOC
gems- Anitas
image- Sugar Nellie
promarkers- denim blue,pastel blue,cocoa,caramel,walnut,buttercup,ice-grey 1

I'll be back later with my dt project for Sarah Hurley Challenges

so ta ta for now

hugs Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges- Circle Frenzy

2011-06-30T17:00:00.002+01:00

Good afternoon peeps, I'm actually at Arrans gymnastics so another scheduled post from me. All the parents were asked if they would like to stay and watch the class last week and somehow they convinced us to join in too. I was so proud of Arran and it was so insightful, lets just say Arran doesn't tell you much, if anything at all some days or he can't remember.Kids eh!!!

So onto my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. If you weren't already aware, Sarah is guest designer for the making cards magazine and she has designed some amazing papers and embellishments, all free and inside so no waiting. They are a summer theme and they are absolutely yummy and so fun to use. My dt card was used using some elements included in the magazine.

Our theme this week is

Circle frenzy

nice and easy

Please remember you don't have to use Sarah's products but it would be wonderful to see any projects you do make with them.

Sarah has a prize up for grabs this week too.

Check out the blog here for more details and inspiration fron the dt ladies.

Well thats it from me this week and hope to see you all soon.

hugs Clare x

Look UP

2011-06-30T08:30:00.004+01:00

Good morning bloggers how are we all today? For me this is the first week of the school summer holidays and so far all seems well in the broons hoose. Just don't ask me how I am 8 weeks down the line I might be rather insane by then.

You would think that the first week would be spent chilling out catching up with friends and generally have a relaxing time. But no, I have this mad idea that I should really think about potty training my youngest son Lewis (2). I must be off my trolley lol

Anyhoos as it's Thursday we have a new challenge today over at Charisma and this week the

theme is

Favourite Ice-cream colours.

We are very proud to be sponsored by Digi stamp boutique and The Stamp shoppe.

Please pop on over here for more details

I always do pastel colours and I'm so boring when it comes to ice cream as I always choose vanilla but seeing as it's my hubbys birthday in a few weeks I created a male card.

I choose pistachio,vanilla and chocolate

I even dug out my very neglected Sugar Nellie stamps from the autumn kit.

Thankyou to all you lovely ladies who have left me comments recently. I really do appreciate every single one of them.

There's a new challenge over at Sarah Hurley Challenges, I'll be posting my card later today.

Ta Ta for now

Clare x

My favourite Things

2011-06-25T21:33:00.005+01:00

Before I continue I have a confession to make...I'm a complete and utter fruit loop. The thing is below is my dt card for Stampin for the Weekend and it should have been posted on Friday, the start of our new challenge. But no stupid me didn't, in fact I never even posted it on the dt blog eeeeeek!!

Enough rambling and lets get on with the challenge. Chris is our host this week and she has chosen the theme

OUR FAVOURITE THINGS

I have lots of favourite things but there was no way I could fit them all on one card lol

challenges

just magnolia-butterflies

Please pop on over to the blog for more details about our fabulous prize.

enjoy the rest of the weekend and I'm sure I'll see you around real soon.

hugs Clare x

Vintage Tilda

2011-06-23T08:30:00.001+01:00

Good morning how are we today? Charisma has a great new challenge and our theme this week is

WHITE + ONE COLOUR

I have only ever made this type of card once before so it was great to have another try. I used Vintage Tilda and she is a dream to colour. I also used my good old faithful retro flower punch and a few yellow gems. I decided to mix my punched flowers something I never do but I loved the effect. Don't be surprised to see my next few cards with flowers galore ll

We have a fabulous prize up for grabs this week and we are sponsored by Robyns Fetish.

Please pop on over to Charisma and check out more challenge details and the other dt projects.

thankyou for all the lovely comments you left last week and hopefully i'll get the chance to visit you soon.

Clare x

2011-06-17T18:10:00.004+01:00

Happy Friday to all you lovely ladies out there and hopefully the weather is kinder to you than it is here in Scotland. It's been pouring down with rain all day and would you believe I had Arran's nursery trip to Blair Drummand Safari Park today. Yes...we had a fab day out but got soaked to the bone. I had to carry Arran all the way home cause his socks and shoes were so wet lol.

I'm absolutely knackered now so hubby has kindly offered to make a curry for our tea!!

Talking of tea below is my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges and this week Ria has chosen a fabulous theme

HANDMADE FLOWERS

Please check out our blog here where you may find some new techniques to try

I used papers from Sarah's Wonderland cd (aka Alice in Wonderland). I just love spots and teal is one of my favorite colours. I then made a teapot shaped card and added some punched flowers, pearls and lace detail.

It was kind of fun to do and will def make one again, perhaps something vintage.

Hope you all have a lovely weekend but I will be back tomorrow with another Sarah Hurley project.

hugs Clare x

Tilda with a small gift

2011-06-16T16:11:00.003+01:00

Good afternoon friends how are we all this week? Another week flown buy and once again I have only managed to make my 2 dt cards this week. I do miss just being able to play don't you? With the summer holidays approaching fast this has got to be my busiest week yet!! I have so much to cram in and very little time my head hurts just thinking about it.

Anyway today I have my Charisma DT card to share with you all. I used a Magnolia stamp that my lovely friend Mel gave me for my Christmas which I think I have used once eeekk!! I so loved colouring her in so much so I coloured another Tilda in the same colours lol. I would love to show you but I'm saving that for my Stampin for the weekend dt card next week hee hee.

This week Charisma is hosted by Lora and she has chosen a fabulous colour combo

PINK & GREEN

I have to confess I had the perfect papers in mind but trouble was it was the last one so I was a bit reluctant to use them!! To cut or not to cut that was the question lol

This week we have two amazing prizes up for grabs, our sponsors are...

ALL THAT SCRAPS

and

SCRAPBOOK NEWS and REVIEW

Hop on over to our blog here for more details and to check out the dt project a-m-a-z-i-n-g!!

Please come by my way later tonight and join in with me with a cuppa (hint hint,wink,wink)

I've got my AGM for toddlers tonight so better get those notes started yikes

Thabks as always for stopping by

Clare x

Dandelion Clock

2011-06-10T13:44:00.003+01:00

Hello fellow crafters how are you all today? I have a pretty rough week, first I hurt my neck then caught a sore throat. Lewis has also been waking up in the middle of the night since last Friday so I am rather sleep deprived. Thank god it's nearly the weekend, need some much needed rest and hopefully get to spend some time in my craftroom.

Today I am sharing with you a card I made last week for Stampin For The Weekend. I stupidly thought the challenge started last week, got myself in a bit of a pickle because I was behind with dt stuff only to realise I was a week early :-( It turned out to be a saving grace because I haven't been able to craft all week, stupid housework has a lot to answer for lol.

Anyway it's my turn to host the challenge over at Stampin For The Weekend and our theme this week is a colour combo.

LEMON & LIME

I just love this colour combo perfect for summer time don't you think. Please check out the dt's projects over here.

This week we are sponsored by

SIMON SAYS STAMP

who have an amazing prize up for grabs this week.

Here's my little offering

image- Dandelion Clock LOTV
sentiment- craftwork cards
flowers- retro flower punch
lace- MS heart lace punch
gems- Anitas wheel
ribbon- local haberdashery
papers- days to remember-local craft shop
pearls- WOC

challenges

abc challenge- wish
Dream valley challenges- stamp something
lotv- anything goes

If your looking for a summer challenge theme then pop over to Sarah hurley challenges. Charisma also have a new theme this week which is how old?

Bloomin lovely

2011-06-02T09:36:00.005+01:00

I'm back but this time with my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. This week we are having a

SUMMER THEME

and we are sponsored by the fabulous gallimaufryuk .The dt gals were very lucky to be given the chance to have a wee play with their 'Bloomin Lovely' digi kit and guess what? it really is bloomin lovely hee hee

I have to say I had a ball creating my little scene, something that I haven't done much of but it was a great opportunity to try something new and get me out of my comfort zone. I'm sure my craft knife got a bit of a shock after all that cutting out but it was the perfect tool for the job lol.I followed one of Sarah's sketches, she has loads on our forum but this one was perfect for this challenge.

Please hop on over to the challenge blog as you will be blown away by the diversity of the dt's inspiration projects.I'm sure you will pick up some tips along the way.

This is another scheduled post as Arran has gymnastics and the in laws are coming through this afternoon for dinner. So take care for now and hopefully I'll get the chance to pop by your way soon.

Take care
Clare x

Here is my card

Something that flies

2011-06-02T08:30:00.002+01:00

Good morning peeps, how have you all been? I am soooooo busy right now that I can only describe my life as one huge juggling act lol But it's all good so not complaining too much!

Todays post is a scheduled one as it's Arrans nursery sports day this morning. I'll be there cheering him on trying desperately not to act like those embarrassing mums hee hee. I'm hoping this awful rain will go away, it's really hard to believe this time last year the children were dripping in suncream and sucking on ice lollies.

Anyway I have my Charisma dt card to show you and it gave me the perfect opportunity to use my new lotv stamp. I have just realised the picture is a bit blurry so I will update it soon.The lovely Alison is your host this week and she has chosen a great theme for us

SOMETHING THAT FLIES

ribbon/pearls-WOC
flowers- retro punch
tools- ms heart lace punch
cardstock- The Papermill
image-LOTV
sparkle- diamond stickles
promarkers- cocktail pink,baby pink, pale pink,meadow green,cocoa,caramel,tan,blush and almond

We have two great sponsors this week Simon Says Stamp and Pink Cat Studio , more details can be found here

Challenges

Allsorts- Things with wings

Please check my blog out later when I will be sharing my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges.

LOTV BABY BOY

2011-05-26T09:30:00.000+01:00

Good morning peeps how are you all today? It's a sceduled post today as I have nursery drop off this morning then gymnastics. Arran received his award last week at gymnastics so we are hoping he gets his certificate today. I am so proud of my wee scone!!

You should know by now that Thursday means the start of a new challenge over at Charisma. This week the very talented Vee has chosen the theme
boy oh boy

This week we have two prizes up for grabs from Digi stamp boutique and Stamping boutique.

Now I now some of you would avoid them like the plague but we do need them so why not have a go. I chose a baby boy card and used one of my favourite LOTV images, I don't know why I said favourite cause I love them all hee hee.I also used my favourite promarker combo, denim blue and pastel blue. I did however accidently pick up ice grey one for the shading but think I got away with it this time lol

Thankyou for stopping by today and don't forget to check out Sarah Hurley Challenges and SFTW.

hugs Clare x

Bella Bunting

2011-05-20T10:07:00.003+01:00

Good morning peeps!! You don't hear from me in days then 3 posts over 24hrs. I slept in this morning so feeling a bit rough and out of sorts but hey it's Friday so weekend nearly here.

Today I am sharing with you my card for Stampin For The Weekend. I used my bells bunting stamp that I won on Sugar Nellies facebook challnege. It was the first time I had entered and boy it was so hard to choose from all the SN stamps. Mark at Funkykits had in delivered in a day, now thats what I call good service!!

We had a wee break recently but boy have the girls came back with a bang!! The challenge this week has been set by Jan and she has chosen

BLUE,BUTTONS AND BLING!!

pop over for prize details and inspiration from the dt

thankyou girls for leaving such lovely comments and hope you all have a lovely weekend

hugs Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges- Frames

2011-05-19T23:52:00.004+01:00

Good evening peeps how are you? I have just came home from a Pampered Chef party only to discover mr blogger has not scheduled this post arghhh.

Tonight I share with you my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges
and our theme this week is
frames.

Please pop over here for more details and some inspiration form the dt.

Here is my card using Sarah's free papers from the making cards magazine, love em!!

Well I 'm off to bed as it's nearly midnight and no doubt one of the kids will wake early. So take care and please pop by tomorrow to check out my dt card for Stampin for the weekend.

Charisma Cardz Challenges- Pink

2011-05-19T09:56:00.004+01:00

Goodmorning peeps, how are you all today? I'm hoping the freak rain showers we have had this week will pass so the children can get on the trampoline and me too :-).

As usual I'm frantically trying to cram as much in as possible while Arran is at nursery this morning. I'm hoping I don't get a phone call from the school to collect him early as he got his pre school booster jags and is feeling a bit poorly.

Lewis he is busy painting in the kitchen and I might just live to regret not supervising him. Sophie our pussy cat is sunbathing on the kitchen table right next to his paints. I have this feeling Sophie may not be a black and white cat for much longer and I dont't have time to bath a cat and child!!

Below is my DT card for Charisma this week and i have used a Robyns Fetish digi image.Carol has chosen the theme of

BIRTHDAYS IN PINK

Our sponsor this week is Robyn's fetish and you have the chance to win a couple of prizes this week. So pop on over here and check out the challenge details and the fabulous cards that the dt have made to inspire you.

Well gotta go, thanks for stopping by and hopefully I'll pop over to you soon

take clare x

Under the Weather

2011-05-12T09:42:00.002+01:00

Good evening peeps, how are you all today? Huge apologies for not being around much but hubby and I have been busy decorating Lewi's room and the spare room. I have to say it's looking pretty good and Lewis loves it too.

Today I want to share with you my DT card for Charisma.This should've been posted on Thursday but I'm sure you are all aware of the problems a certain Mr blogger has been causing.

This week it is the lovely Leah's turn to host our challenge and she has chosen the theme

Under the weather

you can either create a weather related project or go down the sick route, it's entirely up to you!!

We are sponsored by Pink Cat Studio. You can find out more about the awesome prizes up for grabs here.

hope your having a wonderful weekend

Clare x

Wedding Favours

2011-05-05T08:00:00.001+01:00

Good morning peeps and how are you all today? I'm catching up with a very good friend of mine this morning between nursery pickup, so i'm afraid it's a scheduled post from me.

Another has flown by and because it's Thursday it's time for a new challenge over at Charisma.

It's the amazing Carly's turn to set the challenge theme and she has chosen

' ANYTHING BUT A CARD '

This week we have 3 amazing prizes up for grabs so please pop on over here to find out more

This bag was made for the boys at my cousins wedding last week and I can't emphasise enough that it was just genius. It was full of the most amazing toys and sweets which was much to the delight of the wee ones and the big kids too. It kept them amused for hours and it's the perfect keep sake.

In able for me to get an upright picture I had to insert a loo roll, which can I just say resulted in 'the' most horrified expression from Arran. I was quickly reminded that toilet roll was just for wiping bums and winkies lol that was me told then!

It's 11.45pm and my bed is calling me, no I haven't been on the wine hee hee.... just very tired
so take care for now and I'll be back with an update from Sarah and the rest of my teamies from Sarah Hurley Challenges.

hugs Clare x

Charisma DT card

2011-04-28T08:00:00.000+01:00

Good morning peeps, how are you all today? This morning I'm in the middle of getting ready for my cousins wedding so I'm afraid it's a scheduled post from me today. I should point out that this post was written last night just after a dose of night nurse. I have never taken this before so who knows what side affects there will be lol

Todays I'm sharing with you my Charisma dt card
and this week our theme is

April showers/may flowers

This week we are sponsored by Digi Stamp Boutique and LOTV

Here's my card that I'm hoping will inspire you too join in lol

That's all folks please check out my blog later with details of our new challenge over at Sarah hurley challenges.

take care

clare x

Boy oh Boy

2011-04-22T19:27:00.004+01:00

Yip you've probably guessed by the title what type of card I'm showing you this evening....a boy card!! It was made for a little boy who shares his birthday with my dad which was last tuesday.These lotv boy images are perfect for the both the young and the oldies which requires very little colouring so very me lol Oh talking of colouring don't look too close it was a very rushed job as I had literally half an hour to make and finish the card

I used a fabby sketch over at sketch saturday so need to get this posted tonight, nothing like leaving it to the last minute.

Challenges

I love promarkers - Anything Goes

The children are absolutely filthy with playing in the garden so off now to bath and put them to bed. I'll check for challenges later and fill in details about my card soon.I hope you all have a wonderful Easter

hugs Clare x

Sarah Hurley DT card

2011-04-21T21:14:00.003+01:00

Tonight I am feeling soooooooo tired, my little eyes are struggling so straight to the point I afraid. Below is my scrapbook page for Sarah Hurley Challenges....my first ever!!! The lovely Camilla has drawn a fabulous sketch for us to follow whether you use it for a card, layout etc it's entirely up to you. Here's the photo I got my inspiraton from

and here's my humble attempt....sorry Camilla lol

If you would like to enter this challenge then pop on over here.

Thats it folks from me tonight

take care

Clare x

Charisma DT card

2011-04-21T10:02:00.005+01:00

Good morning peeps...how's you all doing? I am loving this lovely weather and I don't know about you but it's playing havoc with my crafty time.

Yesterday morning was spent putting some plants in the garden as up to date all we had was a 40 year old fig tree all the way from Italy !!! The afternoon was spent supervising the children in the pool then on their bouncy castle. We had a ball but was absolutley knackered afterwards so there were a few tears and tantrums before bedtime. I thought they would just collapse into bed but no lewis insisted on me reading about 7 books then refused to sleep. He then then asked for his bedtime bear Oliver and could for the life of me remember where he was last seen no... so I just grabbed Iggle Piggle and hoped in vain he would do only to find lewis asleep....I was only gone a matter of mins lol so much for not being tired lol

Arran and daddy read Top gear books over and over again. I am so glad Arran wanted his daddy to read to him reading them would've put me to sleep never mind Arran hee hee

Anyway enough of my ramblings, below is my DT card for Charisma and this week

Christel

has chosen the theme

jokes and laughter.

I just love this bugaboo image and sentiment and i followed a fabby sketch over at Mojo Monday

Pop over here to see who are sponsoring us this week and what fabby prizes are up for grabs. You will also find amazing creations for the Charisma Girls.

challenges

MAWTT- Recycle- it was just by chance that I used some white ribbon from the mountains of baby gift bags I received when I had both boys

I'm off now to see Arran in his Easter bonnet parade. I will post pics over the weekend if not sooner.

take care and a big hugs to all my fabby followers

Clare x

Bad Hare Day

2011-04-18T17:37:00.012+01:00

Well that title pretty much sums up my day :-(... I did have a wee crafty afternoon planned as Arran went back to nursery today after the Easter break but I was reminded I had notes to do for a meeting so bang went that idea. But I wasn't going to let that stop me from entering the GDT call over at simply sassy.

It was a case of multi tasking to the rescue....craft and cook dinner at the same time with the help of two budding crafters, my two wee boys aged 2 and 4. Probably not the brightest idea I have ever had and did I make that wow card maybe not but the children didn't go hungry and dinner was made in time for hubby coming home hee hee

Well here goes wish me luck!! I even chose this image because it has a rabbit on it and aren't they meant to bring luck or did i just make that bit up lol

They have a fab sketch to follow but I used my swirl as the horizontal...hope thats ok Maria

The pictures a bit rubbish...just my luck eh so I will update it tomorrow.

PICTURE UPDATED TUESDAY.....much better!!

challenges

ladybugs craft ink- ANYTHING GOES
dream valley challenges- Easter
a spoon full of sugar- celebrations
papertake weekly- spots and stripes
little claire designs- Animals

If you want to join in here's the details below

Can I hear a yaaaaaaaaaaaay??

Who have been waiting for this??

We are looking for a Guest designer!!

Yes ONE and if you want to be the one keep on reading!!

I'm having a dt call for one designer to join us for release 7 and 8 of Simply Sassy.
We have now 5 sets over at Funky Kits now and set 6 is on it's way to the dt soon, so the guest will be on for about 2 months but as we all love inspiration you are welcome to start right after being chosen using your older Simply Sassy stamps, but you need to stay on for about two months starting the release /preview of set 7. The guest designer will also post here in the Simply Sassy blog and make 1-2 tutorials within their time as GDT.

Earlier experience from a design team is not needed but I will be looking at coloring skills and good pictures of your cards. Yes you need a blog to be playing along.

What do you do to enter?

Make a card with THIS sketch using a

Simply Sassy stamp

The Call ends 18th April

whew!!
take care peeps I'll be back tomorrow with another card order

Clare x

Balloon bunny

2011-04-17T16:31:00.005+01:00

I don't know what the weathers like at your end but it boiling here today in Falkirk. Sun...in Scotland I hear you all squeal lol Yes it does sometimes happen and so today I have been out in the garden making the most of it as who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Anyway I 've just nipped in to do this post as I forgot the challenge ends today....ooopsie. Tonight I will be finishing my DT project that's if I don't fall down on a heap on the floor. Hubby and I had a ton of stones to move and the outside of the house to scrub so we weren't exactly having an easy day.

I've rambled on as usual so finally here's my wee card today. It was made for an order and they choose this fabulous LOTV image.

challenges

sketch-Sketch and Stash
lotv- happy birthday

and here's the full picture...do you like what I did with the soft focus?

card blank- craftwork cards- bought at penrith craft shop
image- balloon bunny LOTV
ribbon- stash bought about 2 years ago never been used ooopsie!!
punch- retro flower punch large and small
sentiment- craftwork cards
gems- value PM
dies- scalloop,classic oval nestie,MS doily punch, heart sizzix die

promarkers- ice-grey 1,blossom and tea green

thats all from me today heading back out to catch the last of the sun

hope you are all well and thanks to all that have left me comments on my latest dt projects...love ya all!!!

hugs Clare x

Catch a butterfly

2011-04-14T08:00:00.000+01:00

Goodmorning bloggers this is a scheduled post as I am hoping to spend more time in my garden...weather permitting of course.

Today I am sharing with you my DT card for Charisma.
This week we have a colour theme...
BLACK,GREEN and PINK!!

I have to admit I have never used this combination before
and yes it was challenging but isn't that the point lol So thankyou Denise for getting me out my comfort zone.

Prize One -

Our RETURNING sponsor is

Make it Crafty - Think it. Make it. Love it!

Make it Crafty is a dream come true for Zoe who has loved making projects from paper from a young child. Whether it be drawing, making cards, colouring, or her absolute favourite 3D mechanical projects; Zoe is always trying to think about new ideas to play with!

For a number of years Zoe has wanted to share her ideas and love for craft products with you and so Make it Crafty was finally born where she sells some of her favourite products as well as special scene digital stamps designed for the characters you already own!

Zoe only sells products she uses personally so she is always ready to help you where she can. You may also like to stop by the Make it Crafty Blog to see the latest projects, news and tips!

Zoe's scene images will make it VERY easy for you to mix with your existing stamps for some absolutely STUNNING scenes! Our first winner will get THREE digital stamps from the Make it Crafty shop - woo hoo!

***Some of our Design team have even been lucky enough to have a play with some fab digi's from make it crafty too!!***

I used the fabulous petals and palings digi stamp and you can buy it here

Thanks for stopping by

Clare x

Deck Chair Dreaming

2011-04-12T20:42:00.006+01:00

Evening peeps just a quick post from me tonight as my brother has popped over with his 3 daughters and hubby is growling at me for the computer.

This card was made for my friend Martins birthday last week which he loved.

I have used my current favourite Prima papers, Jack and Jill and he has been coloured with promarkers.

challenge

MAWTT-sketch

might scour blogland for more challenges later

Yikes just noticed I have lost 2 followers ooopsie!!! Hope they come back soon!!

night night

and I'll try and pop by your way soon.

Clare x

LOTV Spring Bunny

2011-04-08T18:22:00.004+01:00

Good evening and thanks for stopping by.Tonight I share with you my DT card for Stampin for the weekend and our theme this week is

Easter.....

and our sponsor this week is....

The image is a LOTV and I've had this little cutie for about a year but he has never been used...oh bless!!

He is so easy to colour and just perfect for those quick makes that we all love and need.

image-LOTV Spring Bunny
cardstock-The Paper mill
papers- Prima
sentiment- Hanglar Stanglar
gems- Papermania
flowers-Sir stamp a lot and WOC
ribbon- local haberdashery

promarkers- pale blue,denim blue, dusty rose,pale pink,meadow green,ice grey 1

Top tip- I used the ice-grey 1 to go round the edge of the sentiment. I normally used black but the ice grey one isn't so harsh.

challenges- sketch saturday

I might have another card to share with you over the weekend, but if it's as hot as it was today I'll be out in the garden.

take care and hope you have a lovely weekend.

hugs clare

LOTV wedding couple

2011-04-07T08:00:00.002+01:00

Goodmorning peeps, I'm hoping blogger is playing nice today and scheduled this post today and not yesterday.He was very naughtly last night and caused me a lot of grief grrrrrr!!

Anyhoo today is Thursday and the start of our new challenge at Charisma.It was my turn to choose the theme and since Wills and Kate are getting hitched at the end of the month it seemed the obvious choice.

Weddings/Anniversarys

We are proud to have sponsor our Challenges:

Prize One -

We also welcome back our regular sponsor Simon Says Stamp, who are very generously giving a $20 gift voucher to our winner, so hop on over to their store, as there is just so much to choose from!

P.s - I hear they have some wonderful new things in stock!!!

PRIZE TWO -
4 Digi's of your choice

If you would like to enter this weeks challenge or see inspirastion from the charisma gals then pop on over here

Please come by here later when I will share with you my dt card for Sarah Hurley challenges

hugs Clare x

Butterfly swing Tilda

2011-04-06T13:33:00.005+01:00

It's the Easter hols here for my kiddy winkles so that means only one thing...less crafting for me :-( hence the lack of post or blogging. So while dreaming of crafting this is what I came up with, well sort of, it did look better in my head lol Don't you just hate when that happens!!

I suggest you get your sunglasses to the ready it's a bright one!!!

image- Vintage Tilda, MIC butterfly swing
lace- The Ribbon Girl
Punch-woodware and ms butterfly and heart doily lace
papers- K & Co
gems-papermania
glitter- stickles
sentiment- local craft shop

promarkers-dress- azure,cobalt blue,powder blue
skin-almond,blush,oatmeal
hair-cocoa,caramel,walnut
ribbon/perfume- bottle-cocktail pink,baby pink,pale pink

Have your eyes recovered yet?I did warn you hee hee
I would so love to know what you think?

The butterfly swing is from Make it crafty.I fell in love with Zoe's images when Carly from Charisma asked me to join her team. Zoe was sponsoring us and I got the chance to have a wee play with the mushroom house. Ideally I would've liked the swing to be a bit bigger or perhaps used a mini Tilda but my computer wasn't working and I don't have any mini Tildas. I also now wish I put foam pads on the topper but it's well and truly stuck now lol

This is my first attempt at bright colours and I was actually quite pleased with the results even if it did take me several attempts lol.

challenges-

sketch- CLP
Just Magnolia- Anything goes
Make it colourful- bright colours

I will be back tomorrow with my dt card for Charisma and Sarah Hurley Challenges.

hugs Clare

Challenge Anyone??

2011-04-01T12:56:00.002+01:00

Good afternoon and happy Friday to all my wonderful followers. It's been a while since my last post but I was off on my holidays to Centre Parcs in Penrith. I managed to pop in and see a new follower of mine Samantha who workd in a Penrith Craft shop...lucky devil. And I just had to buy some craft goodies, afterall it would be rude not too lol.
Of course we all know what follows holidays....the mammoth task of washing and ironing arghhhh. I had it all done then pang, managed to put my back out so no crafting for me and very little sleep...thankgod it's the weekend yeah!!

I apologise for no cards to show but if your looking for a wee challenge then pop over and visit my lovely teamies. The links are below

stampin for the weekend-Mum/mothers day
sarah hurley challenges- Mums the word
Charisma-Sparkle and bling

Hope you all have a wonderful easter break

hugs Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges- Embossing

2011-03-17T19:23:00.004Z

Good evening peeps and thanks for popping by. I don't know about you but I am absolutely knackered after a very packed activity morning and afternoon.

We woke up this morning with rain but by midday the sun was shining so our big dig wasn't quite a wash out. We got lots done in the nursery garden and hubby reluctantly came along too. I think he secretly enjoyed himself even though his arms and legs now ache after shoveling lots of soil.

After a quick lunch we headed off to gymnastics, done a bit off shopping then finally headed to the library before going home for tea. It'll come no surprise to you that I am doing absolutely nothing tonight and having an early bed. So without further ado here is my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges....

stamps- Sarah Hurley
sentiment-Christmas cheer cd
embossing folder-CB
snowflakes- xcut punch
gems-PM
cardy candy- Craftwork cards
ribbon-stash
cardstock- The Papermill

This week we are sponsored
by Handy Hippo

Handy Hippo is a friendly online craft supplies shop with a great range of rubber stamps and other card making goodies - including plenty of embossing folders and dies for the Cuttlebug. Their website has lots of information on crafting techniques, plus a great selection of free card project ideas to suit crafters of all abilities so please pop over and visit them!

Handy Hippo is a friendly online craft supplies shop with a great range of rubber stamps and other card making goodies - including plenty of embossing folders and dies for the Cuttlebug. Their website has lots of information on crafting techniques, plus a great selection of free card project ideas to suit crafters of all abilities so please pop over and visit them!

They chose a theme of Embossing this week and have given us some embossing folders as a prize! There will be 3 for the winner and one each for 2nd and 3rd place. You can see them on their website here

what do you think?

If your looking for some inspiration please pop on over here. Remember you don't have to use any of Sarah's products but you can find them here.

Goodnight and please leave a wee comment, even to say hi.

hugs Clare

Charisma Cardz Challenges- To Die For

2011-03-17T08:00:00.000Z

Good morning and happy Thursday to you all. My post is scheduled today as I am helping out in the school nursery garden. It's our big dig day and I am praying the rain has stopped not that it will stop us!!

Anyway today I share with you my dt for Charisma and it's a cracker. Gemms has chosen the theme 'to die for' (die cuts) and we all love them, don't we??

This week we are sponsored by Mellissa from Pink Cat Studio, Digi's with Attitude and which crafts. For more info about ours sponsors or our challenge pop on over here.

Challenges

Sketch- Sugar Nellie

Tools- oval and scallop oval nesties, ms rabbit punch
flowers/pearls- WOC
flower cluster/butterfly charm- The Works
Image- Spring has Sprung (Sugar Nellie)
papers- Prima (Jack and Jill)

Don't forget you still have time to enter our Spring challenge over at Stampin for the weekend and our flower challenge over at Sarah Hurley Challenges.

I'll be back later tonight with another Dt card.

Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges- Flowers

2011-03-10T17:00:00.000Z

Evening all and if you popped over earlier thankyou for stopping by again!!

Tonight I share with you my DT card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. I just know you are going to love our theme this week which is....

Flowers

I immediately knew my retro flower punch would be perfect for this challenge and I love Sarah's Wonderland papers and sentiments so printed them off too!!

Finally I came up with this.

what do you think??

gems- Papermania
card candy- The Glitter Pot
tools- retro punch and nestabillaties
cardstock- The Papermill

I would like to thank all you lovelies out there who left me a wee comment or two this week and hopefully I will hop on over to you soon.

clare x

p.s just had to share this... in the guiness advert the girl is called Clare Griffin, well that was my maiden name...it made me giggle hee hee

Charisma Cardz Challenges- Easel cards

2011-03-10T08:30:00.002Z

Goodmorning and happy Thursday to you all. Once again another week has flown by and just when I thought spring was well underway we wake up to a flutter of snow yesterday. Luckily that's all it was as I am desperate to get out into the garden.

Today I share with you my dt card for Charisma
and our theme this week is

easel cards.

Our sponsors this week are

Some odd girl
The stamping boutique
and
Scrapbook news and reviews.

It's been a while since I have made an easel card so please forgive me for being a little rusty.

papers- K & Co classic
cardstock- The Papermill
stamp- Tilda shopping
sentiment- local craft shop
flowers/charm- Sir stamp a lot and The Works
pearls- WOC
lace- local wool shop
brads/- Papermania
ribbon- recycled tab from an old blouse lol
promarkers- dusky rose,pale pink,almond,blush,cocoa,caramel,walnut, warm grey 4 and khaki
tool- classic and scallop nesties

whew what a list... hope I didn't make you nod off to sleep!!

Once again I 'll be back later with my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges but if you can't wait pop over here!!

clare x

p.s. You still have time to enter our Spring theme challenge over at Stampin for the weekend.

Stampin for the weekend dt card

2011-03-04T10:01:00.004Z

Two things I love about Friday's, one it's nearly the weekend and secondly it's a new challenge over at Stampin for the weekend whoop de loop.

This fortnight we have a
springtime theme

What a perfect opportunity to dig out your bright gorgeous papers and flowers and get stamping.

I made this card weeks ago as I wanted to a have a wee play and create a card that was non dt related and this is what I came up with.
I just love my Hanglar stamps and my ms doiley punch..... no surprise there lol

here's my offering today

This card will be going to a very special friend of mine, not saying who as she might be reading this post and i 'm not giving any clues.

My card will be entered into dream valley challenges which just so happens to be run by by fabulous friend Mel. It's their first challenge this week and the theme is anything goes, I hope you can join in too.

I'm off to the school for a meeting before picking Arran up from nursery and if there's anything you want to know leave a comment and I'll get back to you asap.

Hope you all have a lovely weekend and thankyou so much for dropping by.

hugs Clare

Sarah Hurley challenges- Four legged Friends

2011-03-03T22:52:00.005Z

Tonight I share with you my card for Sarah Hurley challenges.

Our theme is four legged friends

and Sarah herself is sponsoring this weeks challenge.

I used Sarah's stamps which you can buy from her shop.The paper is from The Papermill which I have embossed using my cuttlebug swiss dots embossing folder. The twine is from my stash and I have used my promarkers to colour my image and embellishments.

This week we announced our latest design team members so congratulations to you all.

I am now off to bed after falling asleep on the couch lol

See you tomorrow when I will be back with my card for SFTW.

clare x

Charisma Cardz Challenges- Four legged Animals

2011-03-03T09:35:00.003Z

Good morning bloggers, how's your week been? As usual it's been hectic here with a couple of sleepless nights thrown in due to Lewis having sore gums and tummy bug. The looking like a zombie is so not a good look and my memory is worse than ever.Not much crafty time for me so only two dt projects made this week and luckily I had a card in my stash which was perfect for my SFTW DT card tomorrow.

Today brings a new challenge over at Charisma Cardz, and
the theme is Four Legged

our sponsors this week are Simon Says Stamp,Meljens designs and the fabulous Emma from Crafty Emmas store.

Please pop over to Charisma too see what you could win and of course to see the amazing work from the rest of the DT team.

I used this little cutie from Meljens designs

I made a little boob with this card which was very stupid. I hastily printed off a fairy image and a fairy sentiment doh. Luckily they peeled off ok, no harm done lol

Well that's me for this morning got so much to do ,I will be back tonight with my DT card for Sarah Hurley Challenges.

hope you all have a wonderful day and hope you can find some time to leave a wee comment so I can visit you too!!

clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges-Round Cards

2011-02-24T20:20:00.003Z

Good evening and thankyou to those who left comments on my recent post.
I was amazed to see 11 little comments waiting for me and a couple of new followers too.
I will pop over and visit you all soon.

Tonight I share with you my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges.
Our host this week is Brenda and she has chosen round cards as her theme.
I must admit I was rather scared because this was way out of my comfort zone but I am glad Brenda made me think out of the box for a change.
It was so much fun and actually real easy to do.

Anyway here's my wee card using elements from the wonderland CD

I just popped a large button and some cord on the base as sometimes less is more.

Hope you all had a fabby day and enjoy the weekend when it comes.

Windswept

2011-02-24T09:47:00.005Z

Morning everyone, my title today pretty much sums up my trip to school this morning.

It's also the name of the stamp I used for my abc challenge, please check out my post below.

Today I share with you my dt card for our new Charisma Challenge

Black + White + 1

My inspiration came from the Charisma blog banner colours, black + white +pink, very appropriate don't you think hee hee

I also got the chance to ink up my new Tilda stamp. I was drawn to her because I love a good hug whether I am the giver or the receiver and they are perfect when words just fail us.

I would so love it if you could join us this week.
Pop over here to check out the challenge rules and for more inspiration from the dt team. It's wonderful to see how different crafters have different styles.

here's my little offering today

papers/gemstones- Papermania
sentiment-local card shop
tools- retro flower punch, woodware punch, nestabillities
promarkers- pale pink,baby pink,cocktail pink,
almond blush,ice grey 1, caramel,cocoa,

thats all from me this morning but please pop back later tonight for my dt card at Sarah Hurley Challenges

clare x

ABC Challenge - O for Ovals

2011-02-23T23:17:00.004Z

OMG.... just realised it's Wednesday and it's the start of a new challenge over at
ABC challenges.

The image is an Elisabeth Bell image from Sugar Nellie. I don't know if Funky Kits still stock them but her name was windswept but don't confuse her with the new windswept Sassy!! I really wanted a sentiment something special but I don't own any so If anyone knows of any fab ones please leave me a comment.

This is the first time in ages that I haven't used a sketch but I think it turned out ok.

here's my offering for our theme

O is for Ovals

please pop over here for more details about the challenge

Goodnight my fabulous blogging friends
and see you tomorrow with my
DT cards for Charisma and Sarah Hurley Challenges.

p.s Can I just say I love these leaves.

A little bit of news

2011-02-18T15:23:00.004Z

Don't you just love Fridays?? I had a cleaning frenzy this morning followed by a very lazy afternoon with the children, well it is nearly the weekend...right?? If Arran can convince me to stop looking at the new sugar nellie gorjuss stamps we might actually get our chicken pie made for dinner. I also have to squeeze in time to bake his thomas cakes but he seems happy enough zooming around the house with Lewis on their scuttlebugs so who am I to disturb them. I am such a naughty mum, it's the sugar that did it....actually it was Mels fault I am glued to the pooter lol. I was just about to do this post when I saw her post tempting me with the gorjuss girls, it was rude not to pop over to funkykits. Of course I couldn't just look could I?? A few accidently fell into my basket and as they say the rest is history hee hee.

Got rather side tracked there! Anyhoo I thought I'd tell you all my friend Jan surprisingly asked me to join her challenge blog Stampin for the weekend. Well you know me I accepted with much delight.

Below is my DT card for our new challenge which starts today.

and another

The theme this week is monochrome, just up my street. And it was Heidi's turn to host and she is only 14 so please pop on over here

here is the blinkie if you want to pop it on your side bar and I hope you will become a follower too.

Well thats the gossip over for today and hopefully I will see you again soon

clare x

p.s Sarah Hurely Challenge has a food and drink challenge
&
Charisma has a spring has sprung theme

Sarah Hurley challenges-Food and Drink

2011-02-17T20:05:00.003Z

As promised I am sharing with you tonight my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges.

The theme this week is FOOD and Drink

I immediately knew that I wanted to create a cupcake but not having made one before I needed time. But with Lewis being poorly, time was not on my side so this was made off the top of my head and it was literally knocked up in 20 mins!! If you want to see how it should be done pop over to Mels blog as she made one too, great minds think a like eh???lol

I used a tag and papers from the wonderland cd and the flowers are from my stash. Scallop nesties were used for the topping and my classic circles were used for the cupcake inside.

That's me for today but will be back tomorrow with a little news.

take care Clare x

Charisma Cardz Challenges- Spring has sprung

2011-02-17T08:00:00.001Z

Goodmorning and happy Thursday to you all and if the weather is anything like yesterday it's a cold and wet one. Today I am hoping mr blogger is playing nice as he was rather naughty last week and didn't schedule my posts :-(

This is my first post of the day and it's my dt card for Charisma. The girls over there are such a lovely bunch and would you believe Vee lives only 15 mins from my house....small world eh??

The theme this week is Spring has Sprung

and we are proud to be sponsored by Robyn's Fetish.

Here is my card using one of their images

Prize one

Robyn's Fetish Digital Stamps And More, a division of I Did It Creations, was created and is
is owned by Robyn Weinrib. Robyn offers a wonderful variety of digital stamps and digital papers,designed to meet the needs of all digital paper crafting addicts for every occasion.

Robyn's Fetish Digital Stamps And More is happy to offer the winner of this challenge 5 digital stamps
or 4 digital stamps and 1 digital paper set of their choice.

PRIZE TWO -

The lovely Heidi from Stampe shop is offering one lucky winner this week a $15 voucher to spend at her shop!!!

Stay tuned.... I'll be back later with my dt card for Sarah Hurley Challenges

enjoy your day
Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges

2011-02-11T14:21:00.000Z

I am afraid it's a quick post from me today as Lewis is a little poorly. After a trip to out of hours last night the doctors diagnosed a nasty throat and ear infection. Lets hope the antibiotics work their magic soon.

Below is my card for sarah hurley challenges and the theme is love/romance. I made it for my wee boys for Valentines Day as every year they make me at least 3 cards. I'm thinking this year both grans will be getting one too.

isn't this weather just awful for photos?? Any tips welcome

take care

clare

2011-02-10T10:20:00.000Z

Good morning peeps, hope your day has got off to a good start. It was a 6am wake call from Arran this morning but luckily it was only a toilet pit stop before he headed back to his bed. 40 mins later there was singing and shouting of mummy from his younger brother Lewis....aren't cots great lol.

This week has been full of surprises in the world of blog, one of which I can share with you today. As you know I am currently a GDT for Charisma cardz for the month of February, well would you believe it the lovely Carly has only gone and asked me to be permanent DT!!!! Don't you just love surprises lol.

Anyway below is my DT for Charisma and I was lucky enough to have been given this lovely digi image. It's so perfect for our Mythical/fantasy theme this week and It's from pink cat studio who will be sponsoring this weeks challenge.I have to say I loved colouring her in, in fact I have to confess I printed a whole sheet of her so I could have a wee colouring session!! What's that well known saying....oh yes practice makes perfect and I need a lot of that lol!!

I'm afraid the picture is a bit rubbish due to stupid me dropping my camera causing the lens to fall off. The lens keeps falling off and after several hours of frustration and screams I managed to get one...yes one picture arghhhh.

***
Here's a list of promarkers I used if anyone is interested.

promarkers- forest green.meadow green,powder blue,cornflower blue,cocoa caramel,antique pink,dusky rose,pale pink,almond,sunflower,tulip yellow and buttercup.

I am hoping to share with you my DT card for Sarah Hurley Challenges later today. So take care for now and hope to see you again soon.

clare x

ABC Challenge - N for Neutrals

2011-02-09T13:28:00.000Z

Good afternoon bloggers and happy Wednesday to all my lovely followers. Today I share with you my DT card for ABC Challenge and the theme this week is

N for NEUTRALS

The sponser at ABC Challenges this week is whimsey stamps and I choose the swirly pot. Isn't it gorgeous and so versatile?

If you didn't already know ABC Challenge is now a weekly challenge blog with the weeks alternating between two teams. I am in team b so it will be another fortnight until you see my next abc challenge card. Hope you can join me and the girls and if your looking for inspiration pop over here.

As you can probably tell this is not my usual style but after seeing so many CAS cards I just had to have a go. Somehow I got it into my head that this card would be made in no time time at all but no it took me ages!!! I guess my brain is not used to that way of thinking but I rather like my CAS card. I especially love my watering can which I bought for 50p which has been stashed away in a box for two years and never been inked up!!

I have taken a few pictures, why not eh!!!

another...

bored yet???

and finally...

stamps- Whimsey and local craft shop
tools- CB swiss dots embossing folder, x-cut heart punch,retro flower punch.
colouring- promarkers.. cocoa, caramel, tan, tea green, buttercup, tulip yellow
gems- Wild orchid Crafts
ribbon- Flawless Designs (Local card shop)

I will be back tomorrow with my DT card for Charisma and Sarah Hurley Challenges.

take care

clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges- Die cuts

2011-02-03T21:42:00.000Z

Good evening my lovely bloggers and thankyou to those who left comments on my blog today. I also was to thank Mel for sending me a message via facebook such a lovely surprise.

I feel I am about to be given an award or on This is your Life with all my thankyous but I do love all my followers.

Anyway tonight I am sharing with you my DT card for Sarah Hurley Challenges. It is my challenge this week and I have chosen Die Cuts which I know you can't live without lol.For more details and inspiration from the DT pop over here.

Once again I used Sarah's Winter Wonderland CD, can you tell I love it!!

The sentiment,papers and image are from the queen of hearts collection. I felt the images didn't need colouring so I decided on a monochromatic look. The flowers are punched using my retro flower punch and the leaves are a sizzix die. Gems and black cord is from my stash.

I'm afraid that's all from me today as I want to finish colouring a Hanglar image that I started earlier. So goodnight and please come back soon.

clare x

A little bit of news

2011-02-03T10:13:00.000Z

The gorgeous Carly over at Charisma Cardz Challenges asked if I would be GDT for the month of February. It was a lovely surprise and the answer of course was yes!

The theme this week is no embellishments, did I just hear you all gasp!!!lol I know you love your embellishments but actually it's quite refreshing to think out the box. I also used this lovely digi image from Make it Crafty and it was perfect for a new home card which I just so happen to need.

I don't do red or grey as I don't think I have the necessary promarkers but I did try and here is the result.

challenges- sketch saturday

I hope you are able to join us and I'll be back later today with my DT card for Sarah Hurley Challenges.

hugs Clare x

Lucas birthday card

2011-01-29T02:01:00.000Z

Today I share with you another card for a little boy at Arrans nursery. The obvious choice was another one of my LOTV images and my fabulous wild rose studio papers (for men). I think I bought them from crafty emma's online shop which I just love.

Again I have used my sizzix swirls as I couldn't think what else to use as flowers were a no no.The scrabble tiles were also used to personalise the card. The picture is on the light side but it was a dark foggy day in Scotland and this was the best I could get sorry!!

recipe to follow

It's a gorgeous day today even if on the tad chilly side, so it's out in the garden to clear up after that heavy snow we had. It's gonna be a big job but need to make a start.

Hope you all have a lovely weekend and hope you can find the time to leave a comment or perhaps become a follower. It's just nosies really I like to know who's popped over so I can come and have a peek at your blog and become a follower too!!

clare x

P.s Sarah hurley still has a dt call on so why not pop over here. I can guarantee you would have so much fun working with Sarah and my talented and gorgeous DT members. (is that ok Lisa hee hee)

Sarah Hurley challenges

2011-01-27T19:00:00.000Z

Good morning and happy Thursday to you all. Today I am going to share with you my card for our new challenge over at Sarah Hurley Challenges. This week's theme was chosen by the lovely Mel and it's a sketch challenge. I love a good sketch and this is no exception. I used Sarah's amazing Wonderland CD which I absolutely love. I just had all these ideas jumping around my head for cards and I wanted to do them all at once. So after a manic printing session I came up with this card and lots of other stuff too for my upcoming challenges. I hope you can join us this week and don't forget you don't have to use any of Sarah's products.

I will be back tomorrow with the card that should've been posted last saturday but mr blogger failed me. So enjoy your day and hope to catch up with you all soon.

clare x

P.s Check out my post below, Sarah has a DT call!!!

DT Call

2011-01-26T21:26:00.000Z

Just a quick post from me tonight but one that I am delighted to share. The very talented and gorgeous Sarah Hurley is looking for some people to be a part of her Design Team. Please pop over to Sarah's blog to find out more.

I will be back tomorrow with a card for our new challenge so sleep well and hope to see you in the morning.

hugs Clare x

One of my many boys cards

2011-01-21T16:13:00.000Z

Well would you believe it?? I have actually posted 3 days in a row lol!! January and february seems to be the month for boys/male birthdays, in fact I have a total of 6. Arran starting nursery school has def made an impact so I think I may need to make a stash of them just in case. I usually only make them when needed and panic at the last minute but no not this year I am going to be super organised. Doesn't that sound great when you say it out loud, I might even believe it hee hee.

Todays card had been made for a wee boy called Alex and tomorrow he is having a party at soft play. It will be so much fun especially as us mums will have the opportunity to have lunch and chat with hopefully minimum interuptions.... sorry just had to laugh at that last comment lol

I have used a LOTV image which was kindly given to me by the lovely Susie. It's been very cold and foggy today so please forgive the photo quality.

dp's- wild rose studio (for men) love em!!
swirls- sizzix die
scrabble stamps- given in a rak
rafia lace- hobby craft
buttons/gems and red lace- papermania
cardstock-The papermill

challenges

LOTV

Thanks for all your wonderful comments and hope to pop by to your blog soon. Got zumba class tonight and haven't been in ages so it might be a while before I have movement lol

hugs Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges

2011-01-20T10:31:00.000Z

Brrrr it's a cold one today, Jack Frost has certainly made an impact this morning. I now have internet whoop whoop and as promised I have my dt card for Sarah Hurley challenges. The challenge this week is set by Lisa and she has chosen a birthday theme which coincides with her daughters birthday.

My card this week was made using sarah's new winter wonderland and what can I say but wow. I just had to choose the tea party image and the delicious papers. The detailing on the image is out of this world and sarah has captured this well know scene perfectly. To top it off there's no need to colour so it's perfect for those quickie cards that we all need.

here's my card and hope you can join in too.

tools- Winter wonderland cd (sarah hurley),ms doily punch and ms butterfly punch,stickles,punched flowers
gems/buttons-papermania
cardstock-the papermill
flowers- sir stamp a lot

challenges

sketch saturday
simon says stamp-buttons, flowers.glitter

Clare x

ABC Challenge - M for Magical

2011-01-18T20:05:00.000Z

Happy Wednesday to all my faithful followers out there and those who left heart felt wishes when I had the flu. Fortunately I am on the mend but knackered doing not very much so my craftime is still somewhat limited.

I actually managed to surprise myself twice on Sunday while making this card. The first being I made only two christmas cards last year (so shameful) so I took the opportunity to create a christmas card. The second surprise I used an old Sugar Nellie image. I was and still am a huge Sugar fan but when you come across so many other wonderful stamp companies it's easy to get lured.

Anyway today marks the day of a new challenge over at abc challenges and the theme this week is M for Magical. Our sponsor this week is the wonderful Pollycraft and they have given us a fabulous prize to give away to one lucky winner.
Please pop over to abc for more details and the chance to see some fabulous inspiration from the dt girls. We have also anounced the winners of the dt call and what can I say but wow!!

Our telephone exchange went down last night while writing this post and I have lost the details of my card and all the links :-( I will pop by later today with an update and if you have any questions leave me a comment on the side bar.

Hope you are all well and please pop by again tomorrow when I will share with you my card for Sarah Hurley Challenges.

hugs Clare x

A quick hello

2011-01-08T18:08:00.000Z

I just wanted to say a huge happy new year to all my fabulous followers and to a certain special agent in my life (you know who you are :-)!!

This past month or two has certainly been a turbulent one, shedding a tear or two along the way but throughout the chaos I did manage to celebrate Lewis's 2nd birthday and enjoy a fabulous holiday at Centre Parcs in Penrith. With the help of a cocktail or two or three and the wonderful company of my family, my friend Susie and her family the later part of my year was certainly back on track and ready for the new year... or so I thought!! Instead I have caught the dreaded flu (and hubby) and it's absolutely floored me. I have now made a special bond with mr kleenex and his friends paracetamol but if anyone can suggest anything else that will get rid of this awful bug I am all ears. Well I am off to bed now to try and get some rest before hubby flies off to France tomorrow so take care and hope to catch up with you all soon

hugs Clare xx

ABC Challenge - J for Jewels and Gems

2010-12-08T18:35:00.000Z

The snow is still causing havoc here in Scotland. Never thought I'd hear myself say this but I want it to go away now!! I am no longer looking at it thinking how pretty it looks i'm thinking that'll be another two hours of my time clearing snow in my drive today.
The schools are back on tomorrow after nearly 2 weeks unless I get a text in the morning to say otherwise. Speaking of texts, I actually received one from the school today asking if I would bring my own shovel and help dig at the school!!

Anyway after defrosting my fingers and my bum after coming in from the snow i can now sit down and write this post.

This is my second christmas card I have made, yes my second lol and it is also my dt card over at abc challenge. This week the theme is jewels and gems and I know you guys just love a bit of bling, right?? So pop on over and join in the fun also please if you can visit the dt's individual blogs as they would love to hear from you too.

The picture is a bit rubbish with all this snow so will try and get a better one soon.

papers-DCWV winter matt stack
flowers and gems- wild orchid crafts
ribbon-local craft shop
image- LOTV
sentiment-Hero arts
tool- ms doiley punch and nesties
glitter- stickles diamond
promarkers- pale blue,denim blue and ice grey 1

*****

challenges

sketch saturday- sketch
simon says stamp- no green or red christmas
papertake weekly- red and green must not be seen
spoonfull of sugar- christmas

take care for now and will see you again tomorrow with my dt project for sarah hurley challenges.

take care
clare x

more snow more chaos!!

2010-12-06T11:20:00.000Z

Monday morning and the snow is back with avengance!! Schools off again today and hubby just back from a 40 minute walk to his work to find no-one there. Bless him,it normally only takes him 15 mins. After a quick cuppa he is heading home so might get the christmas decortations up afterall.

Anyway here is one of the cards I made for a 70th birthday. I love all of the LOTV stamps but Rosie Posie is a particular favourite of mine.

image- LOTV rosie posie
tools- doily punch and sizzix tag die
promarkers- lavender,ice grey 1,caramel,cocoa,almond,pale pink and orchid
flowers/pearls- wild orchid
papers-papermania
stash-ribbon,peel offs and scrabble stamps

hope to back soon with my abc dt card

hugs Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges

2010-12-02T22:43:00.000Z

Well thats another week whizzed by and the start of a new challenge over at Sarah Hurley challenges. This week the wonderful Brenda is hosting the challenge and has chosen gift bags as her theme. I have to admit it was a little out of my comfort zone having never made one before so I headed over to splitcoasters for inspiration. If you would like to join in pop over here

I was asked to make a couple of cards for a 70th birthday so hopefully I will get the opportunity to post over the weekend.

Hope you are all safe and warm out of the snow and if you have time leave me a comment so I know you've hopped on over!!

take care Clare x

Sarah Hurley challenges

2010-11-25T10:53:00.000Z

Brrrrrrrrrr it's so so cold today but no snow as of yet!! Today is the start of a new challenge at sarah hurley challenges and it's the fabulous Amanda's turn this week to host. Amanda has chosen masking as her theme which I have to admit it's something I have never done before....can you tell?? I had so much fun and I can see it being rather addictive so please give it a try it's not as scary as you think. The dt have once again created some amazing cards so please pop over and say hi.

Here's my card and if anything it might make you laugh!!

and a wee close up of those cute little owl

I used Sarah's woodland whimsie stamps for the first time and I was extremely impressed by them. I love the cuteness and simlpicity of them which makes them so easy to colour whether your a novice like me or a pro. And they match perfectly with the woodland whimsie papers I have used.
I used sequences from my stash and promarkers are cocoa,caramel,almond,icegrey 1 and ginger.

Hope you can join in and remeber there's still time to enter my embossing theme.

that's all for now off to nursey to pick up arran

ABC Challenge - I for Ice and Snow

2010-11-24T13:31:00.000Z

Has another week past already?I had great intentions of crafting more but home life is taking over at the minute so only managing to get dt cards made. Sad really as I am only on two dt challenges!!

I am now thinking It's probably too late to panic about getting my christmas cards all made for Dec, as to date I have only managed two, this being the second. There's always next year....right???

This card was made for the new challenge over at ABC and the theme this fortnight is Ice and Snow. I thought this Magnolia image was perfect not only for the challenge but suited hubby's christmas card too.What do you think??

I decided to be a bit fussy with this one and while I was setting up my craftroom I came across loads of hidden treasures that I had forgotten about.

another angle

image- Magnolia
promarkers- denim blue,cornflower blue,pastel blue,ice grey 1,cocoa,caramel,blush,almond,palepink
papers- Anita's classic christmas blue
flowers- Wild orchid craft
Stars- local craft shop
ribbon-stash
beaded spray- hobbycraft
snowflake charm- Debs candy win ( thanks hun)
tools- MS doiley punch,oval nesties and stickles
glitter dots/sentiment- Penelope and Percy glitter stickers- Birthday present from Mel ( they're just fabulous)
foil card- local stationary and birthday present from Susie

****

challenges

sketch- sketch saturday
non-traditional-Totally Gorguss
christmas without red and green-Fussy and Fancy
punches- Magnolia stamp Lovers
anything goes- a spoonfull of sugar
let it snow- simon says stamp
cut it out- Papertake weekly
blue christmas- wild orchid challenge

phew need a cuppa now!!

take care

hugs Clare

Clare's DT Card- Sarah Hurley Challenges

2010-11-18T09:34:00.000Z

Hi folks just a quick post from me today as got house stuff to do this morning while Arran at nursery. Then off to gymnastics in afternoon and might squeeze in a bit of christmas shopping too.

Today is a brand new challenge over at Sarah Hurley challenges and it's my time to host. I have chosen the theme of embossing, my favourite!!

for more details and to enter pop over to the challenge blog here

I have a quick Magnolia card to make tonight so you might see that tomorrow.

As always thankyou for your lovely comments and support

hugs to you all Clare x

Back at last and a new challenge

2010-11-11T10:06:00.000Z

Whoop whoop, can you tell I am excited that I have finally arrived in the land of blog. Seven weeks after move in day I have internet , you wouldn't believe how much I missed it.

Anyway here is my DT card for the new challenge over at Sarah Hurley challenges and this week its my fabulous friend Mel who is our host. Mel has chosen the easel cards as our theme which I know we all love so please join in if you can.

Here's my take on the challenge but remember you don't have to use any of Sarah's products it's all about having fun!!

papers & topper- Christmas cheer cd
snowflakes- Daisy and Dandelion ( birthday present from Mel)
pearls & flowers- wild oechid crafts
tools- CB stars embossing folder, Spellbinders nestie, corner punch
Cardstock- The Paper Mill

**********
I am so full of surprises today can't believe it's November and this is my first christmas card this year. My new year resolution to start in January went awol... maybe next year lol.
Secondly my DT card was made from scraps not through choice as can't find printer cable and didn't realise there was no ink argh!!

And finally I actually used my very neglected small corner punch and it was all thanks to my recent nestie purchase at the SEC in Glasgow.

I had a ball and it was shared with my truley scrumptious friend Susie. The morning was spent at the craftshow stopping for some lunch and finally heading into town for a couple of cocktails in TGI Fridays. It was a day of tears,laughter,food,alcohol,great friendship and of ofcourse craft shopping....a perfect day!!

Hopefully we can make it again next year but this time I will need a budget for craft goodies and coctails lol

That's all from me today but will def be back soon promise!!

hugs Clare x