Lisa Says

I've Moved..

2010-03-13T11:27:00.002Z

I've decided to move my blog here. No reason, other than I felt like a change. Will still be following all my bloggy friends' antics.

Caribbean Queen

2010-02-04T17:59:00.003Z

I've got 2 of my favourite people coming for dinner, my friend Fiona and her other half Lee. I've decided to do Caribbean, so here's my menu:

Mojitos & party popcorn
--------------------------
Corn on the cob
--------------------------
Jamaican pork
Rice & peas
Pineapple, mint & chilli salsa
-------------------------
Pineapple in rum
Coconut ice cream
(or possibly coconut creme brulee - not decided yet - will let Fee choose if she reads this)
------------------------

Any alternatives gratefully welcome, especially starters

I Promise...

2010-01-30T15:36:00.006Z

... I haven't been as unproductive as this blog would imply, although most of the things I have to show today aren't quite finished.

Firstly, this is a ribbon necklace I've done, using some polymer clay beads I made over the Christmas holidays. I've always loved ribbons with jewellery, yet strangely this is the first piece I've made myself. The lentil shape beads are decorated with 2 sizes of a cane I made. I made the stripy spacers at the same time (and was a bit worried they would work together, but I think I like the look). I need to get some clear nail polish to seal the ends of the ribbon before I can wear it.

Unfortunately the photo's a bit blurred (I didn't realise until after I had packed my portable studio away).

Here's a little close-up of the beads:

I'm also working on this berry bracelet, from a kit Mum bought me for Christmas. I have another self-coloured strand to do (the strands are different colours, although I'm not sure that really shows in the photo), then onto the berries and leaves and twist and stitch the whole thing together. Would love to have this finished before I go on holiday. although also want to make a bracelet to go with the red and gold Crystal & Pearls necklace I've previously posted.

One of the things I had on my list to do this year was learn to crochet. My Mum used to do really lovely things, but I never seemed to quite grasp it (and I think she found it tricky trying to teach a lefty!!). Anyway, I have finally mastered it (thanks to some lefty instructions I found on Internet). It took my 3 nights to learn, which is a bit of a record for me, as normally I'm able to pick things up quickly - was extremely frusturating. Anyway thought I'd start with something simple and make a bag to keep my wool and hooks in. First couple of squares (unfortunately our local shop didn't have a good selection of cotton yarn, so this was the best colour combo I could get).

Finally, made this rye and white seeded loaf - I've done a couple of ones before using all rye flour, but they've come out really gluey and quite inedible. This one has a good feel, so hopefully it will taste nice too.
Thanks for looking.

Lisa xoxo

Happy New Year

2010-01-01T10:00:00.002Z

Can't believe 2010 has come around already - where does the time go?

Hope it's a good year for all (if there are any left) my blog readers.

I don't really believe in New Year's Resolutions, but here are my aims for 2010:

Lose some weight - I have been trying during December and want to do it slowly, as like living my life the way I do.
Spend more time on crafty stuff - I know I probably said this last year as well, but I really miss making lots of stuff - just wish my craft room would repaint itself.
Blog more often - see point above!
Spend an hour or 2 a week decluttering - I realise I should have done this a couple of years ago, prior to Stu moving in, but that didn't happen. Would like to move house at the end of this year or during next year, and would love for it to be a smoother process.
Stop keeping things I don't need/use/wear - see point above!
Enjoy life and appreciate how lucky I am to have great friends, a roof over my head, food on the table and a job I love - I do mostly do this anyway, but it's nice to have a little reminder of this now and again.
Pay off my debts - this one should only take 10 weeks to do :D

Let me know your aims/resolutions if you want to.

Lisa xoxo

Tree Time

2009-12-14T19:13:00.007Z

Thought I'd take a break from trying to fix the stupid washing machine, which is leaking through the drawer and whilst reading up on washing machine problems, discovered that liquid instead of powder, along with washing at low temperatures seems to contribute to a lot of the problems, as the bleach in powder (along with really hot water) seems to stop them from gunking up.

.. anyways, onto the real reason for this post (as I am sure no one really wants to hear my laundry woes)...

We got the Christmas tree on Saturday. It's a real cracker and almost hits the ceiling. Here's a little piccie:
It's a lot brighter in real life - 300 lights on it.

Here's a little arty dot photo...

...and little close-up too.
Still got Christmas cards to do as well. Must, must, must do them tomorrow.

Started reading Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel. Not my normal read, but I always used to make a point of reading the Booker Prize winner, along with most of the shortlist and thought it would be a good habit to revisit.

Although it's not my normal genre (rarely read historical fiction), it's good so far and the author has a good writing style. Might join Good Reads to keep track of what I think of the books I read.

Sure I'll have more to update soon.

Toodles

Don't Faint

2009-12-08T21:01:00.004Z

But I've actually got around to making some Christmas cards this year!!

In the interests of recycling, I've done a design with a re-usable gift tag (ok, the person may have to change the ribbon, but they can definitely use the tag again, and if they glue it on, they can cover the glue on the back of the ribbon {hope that makes sense}). The last one in line looks a bit wonky, but I think that is due to squishing them together in my little portable studio thing, combined with my pretty crappy (lazy) photography skills.

Here's a little close-up some of the tags.

I'm going to do the design in other colourways as well - already have made some blue tags, with snowmen, penguins and snowflakes and have some lovely pink, black and grey Christmas papers I would like to use as well and quite a few other Christmas dies I haven't yet used this year (actually probably never used if I'm being honest).

I also made another batch of Christmas chutney when I got home tonight, and a batch of chilli jam last night - need to label the jam and take a pic tomorrow.

Thanks for looking.

Box of Tricks

2009-12-05T10:18:00.004Z

My long-time readers may remember me posting this as a work in progress a few months ago. It sat almost finished for ages (just needed the feet put on) and I finally finished it last night.

We're going to give it to Stewart's Nan as part of her Christmas present (in fact Stu is right now heading over to his folks' to deliver presents for people we won't see on Christmas Day).

Finally, a couple of little detail pics.

I am also almost finished a different design for Stewart's sis. I relally love making things to put in with people's presents.

Thanks for looking. Off to start making some Christmas cards shortly.

Christmas is Coming

2009-12-02T19:00:00.003Z

Gosh, I can't believe it's been so long since I've updated - I have been doing stuff (honestly!!).

Trying to get into the Christmas spirit, as I felt it was lacking a bit last year after all the wedding excitement. Think I'll get my tree on Saturday, let it settle overnight and decorate it on Sunday. Off out on Saturday with a ton of friends to Arisaig in Glasgow -because there's 26 of us, I think we are going to get the whole of the balcony level to ourselves. After dinner, we're off to Maggie May's.

Made Christmas chutney last night - my first attempt at doing anything like this. Had a little teaspoon taste to see if it was nice; it was yummy scrummy. Made plenty for the family, but will probably end up making more for friends as well. Didn't have jars, so ended up buying half a dozen Asda value lemon curds (not exactly a Nigella moment, spooning lemon curd down the toilet dressed in jammies with eyelliner rubbed over my face - so definitely no pic of that).

Here's the finished article - need to go to a fabric shop to get something Christmassy to put over the lid.

It contains cranberries, apples, dates, ground cloves, ginger & cinnamon, with some cayenne pepper for kick.

Thanks for looking.

Hello Strangers

2009-10-20T17:52:00.002Z

OMG where does the time go. Can't believe it's been about 6 weeks until I updated.

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth (or even been struck down with H1N1), but I also haven't made much (apart from a mess).

I'm working on some polymer clay beads, which I hope will work out ok. Have a head full of ideas and don't seem to get a chance to bring them to fruition - perhaps they're rubbish ideas and that's why!

Promise will update with stuff soon.

Toodles

Crystal & Pearls

2009-09-07T17:04:00.004Z

I made this from a pattern in Laura McCabe's book. The pattern was amazingly easy to follow (much less complicated than it looks). I changed a couple of the sizes/styles in the and shortened the drops quite a bit.

I used 20mm Swarovski rivolis in siam, pearls in powder almond and delicas in apricot gold. I also used siam and sand opal bicones, size 15 seed beads in gold & bronze and size 11 seed beads in gold and red. I also used crystal fireline to keep the whole thing together.

Thanks for looking.

Inky Fingers

2009-08-31T18:20:00.002Z

After a couple of weeks of doing nothing but working and trying to find my mojo, I'm back in the land of blogging - sometimes I really don't know where the time goes, although it has to be said I can be a bit of a faffer even at the best of times.

Anyway, I have a few projects on the go at the moment. Still loving using polymer clay and made these beads.

I used gold foil and alcohol inks in pesto, wild plum, lettuce and stream (and maybe eggplant too - can't remember) on black Fimo Classic. I then used this to cover beads made from scrap clay. Next time I'm going to try wearing gloves with the ink, as my fingers looked really mucky afterwards, especially around the sides of my nails.

The beads are strung with 3mm Swarovski bicones in fuschia, with 4mm ones next to the big bead in the middle.

Thanks for looking.

Breakfast at Tiffany's

2009-08-06T17:46:00.003Z

In line with my new polymer clay addiction, I made these beads on Sunday. Made a little cane and covered beads that were just made from scrap clay. Wish I had some more colours of Fimo Classic (apart from black and white), but have to use up my stock of Fimo Soft before I buy more.

I dusted the beads with Red/Blue Pearlex Powder then coated with Klear floor polish.

I decided to call them "Breakfast at Tiffany's" as the reminded me slightly of a Tiffany lamp.

Got this Creating Crystal Jewelry with Swarovski book, and desperate to try some of the designs. Pity the 18mm rivolis available in the UK are only clear or AB coated. I always try to source stuff from UK suppliers where I can, but looks like I'll have to order from overseas in this instance.

Comments/tips for improving my jewellery/beaded work always are always welcome and appreciated.

Thanks for looking.

Hot Spots

2009-08-02T07:35:00.006Z

I made this polymer clay pendant and bead using the kit I recently purchased from EJR Beads. I wore it to pc class yesterday and at first even one of the instructors thought it was metal, so I was well chuffed. I strung them onto copper tigertail, with copper filligree-style beads and Swarovski bicones in purple velvet.

Went to Manchester for the first time last week and absolutely loved it. Stayed in the Macdonald Manchester which was really nice, as well as only being a short walk from the city centre. On the Saturday we ate at Michael Caines at Abode which was really lovely. We went for the tasting menu and got a really good bottle of wine with it (can also confirm their mojitos are pretty tasty). On the Sunday we went to Chaophraya, a Thai restaurant which was really nice (although Stu ordered the hottest thing on the menu and it was too hot for him - surprise surprise). We travelled down by train which is definitely more relaxing than driving (and probably didn't cost any more than driving as we booked the tickets early).

On the Sunday morning we were walking into town in the rain and saw Ian Brown filming his new video - the things you see when you don't have your camera with you!!!!

The only thing that put a slight downer on the weekend was the killer toothache I had. Luckily managed to get a cancellation when I got home, so started root canal treatment and have another session on Tuesday. I was a bit nervous about it has I've heard a lot of bad things about root canal, but it didn't hurt a bit.

Bead wise, I don't have much to show apart from the necklace earlier in the post. I haven't been doing nothing, but just don't have anything finished. I have started one of the Moroccan-style beads from the Diane Fitzgerald book, have run out of one colour for my beaded box (but almost finished that one - just don't want to pay postage on one tube of beads, so it can wait until I am next placing an order - was going to give it to Stu's nan for crimbo anyway).

I am so lucky to have such a fabby husband - on Friday Stu bought me some new GHD straighteners since I've been wearing my hair really short lately and my thick straightners are too bulky for it and my thin ones were rubbish. He also managed to get a couple of tickets for The Pixies in October (I love love love love love The Pixies and was gutted I didn't get them when they were first released.... well Stewart was checking out Ticketmaster and some seated ones have now been released - might even get to wear my high heels to a gig for a change :D:D)

Don't have much planned for today - footie is on the telly later, so think I will do some clay stuff when that is on. Will also make some yummy cupcakes for hubs.

Oh I almost forgot (how could I!!), anyone familiar with our home will have a huge surprise next time they're round - the kitchen lights now work again!!!!! It's only been a squillion years! Came home yesterday and Stewart's dad had fixed them. They had been wired incorrectly - the people who lived here before must've been trying to create a deathtrap as so many things were wrong, but worked if you know what I mean.

This Weekend

2009-07-20T16:23:00.003Z

This weekend I started working on one the the little boxes in the book "Little Bead Boxes" by Julia S Pretl (one of the books I posted on Thursday). I decided to do the "Flower" one and give it to Stewart's Nan for Christmas. According to the book the difficulty in shapes (from easiest) is triangle, hexagon, pentagon and square. I decided to jump in at almost the deep end (ha, ha - how unlike me!!) and try one of the penatgon ones. It really wasn't difficult at all, once I read the instructions on how to interpret the word maps (there's no way I'd manage it using the graphical charts).

Anyway, this is what I have done so far (quite a few hours).

I also ordered some Hot Copper glitter powders for polymer clay from EJR Beads

Not had a chance to try this out yet, but hope to in the next week or so.

Off to Manchester at the weekend. Staying at the MacDonald Manchester and going for dinner at Michael Caines restaurant on the Saturday night. Going to try and book Chaophraya for the Sunday night as well.

Murder mystery night went really well on Saturday (although I screwed up the main course a bit). Cooked the chicken to too long and it sort of disintegrated (no wonder I hate doing chicken). Everyone really joined in and only one person (my sis) guessed correctly.

Thanks for looking.

Bookworm

2009-07-16T19:06:00.005Z

I've always been a bit of a bookworm, as well as a recently reborn bead addict, so today I treated myself to a couple of new books: I really like these little boxes, and although they'll probably take ages, I thought they would make lovely presents for people. I seem to know so many people who are lucky enough not to really "need" anything and find it difficult sometimes choosing presents, so hopefully these will go down well. Should be easy enough to incorporate different patterns into the shapes as well.
I have a fascination for beaded beads, and hope to make some of the Moroccan-style ones from Diane Fitgerald's book soon - just need to get some of those (pricey) galvanised delicas. This book on beaded beads gets pretty good reviews over on Amazon (the main one seeming to be don't pick a book by it's cover, as the ones on the front are pretty ugly).

Everything seems to be in order for my murder party on Saturday.
I am playing a french lady (my vocabulary may become a bit repetitive, as I don't have many French phrases in my head!!)Have decided on meze type starters, followed by djaje belimoune (chicken with orange and saffron) from my Medina Kitchen book. This is actually the only recipe I have made from this book - must make more.

Will do the New York cheesecake from how to be a Domestic Goddess for sweet again, as it was a great success the last time (and can make it tomorrow night, leaving less work to do on Saturday - always a bonus if you can grab a siesta before having visitors).

Seems I'll have a fiar bit on my hands over the next couple of days, but I am sure it won't be that bad.

ChocoMint Cupcakes

2009-07-13T17:28:00.007Z

I made these cupcakes for a friend's birthday. As it was my own recipe (butchered and added to from a few others), I'll post it here. I think these would work with any other chocolate cake, but as I'm not keen on chocolate cake I made mine with cocoa instead of real chocolate. Measurements seem a bit higgledy piggledy, but I try to use cups & spoons instead of weights where possible as it is much quicker (don't know why we don't use them more in the UK).

ChocoMint Cupcakes (makes 16)

Chocolate Cupcake
1.5 cups plain flour
1 cup cocoa powder (not hot choc mix)
2 cups caster sugar
1.25 tsps baking powder
1.25 tsps bicarb of soda
1 tsp salt
0.75 cup hot water
0.75 cup milk
2 large eggs
0.5 cup veg oil
1.5 tsps vanilla extract

ChocoMint Frosting
1 x 150g bar white chocolate
half a small tub of soft cheese (I used light, but full fat or extra light would prob work too)
4 x tbsps butter (unsalted)
Icing sugar (approx 3 cups)
1.5 tsps peppermint extract
Green food colouring (I used a tiny bit of holly green paste)

Make the Cakes
Sieve the flour, sugar, cocoa, salt, baking powder and bicarb into food processor/mixer bowl.
Turn on and whilst processing add water, milk eggs, oil and vanilla. Mix until mixture is smooth (it will be runny).
Half fill paper cases in muffin tray and bake at 165 degrees for 15-20 minutes (I use a fan oven, so times/temps may have to be slightly increased).
Leave to cool once done.

Make the Frosting
Melt the chocolate in the microwave until just melted then stir until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
Mix the butter and cheese together (I use a food processer). Once combined add the chocolate and peppermint essence and mix again.
Add the icing sugar (I do this half a cup at a time until almost the right consistency, then quarter of a cup at a time until it is just right).
Once the frosting is the right consistency add the food colouring and mix well.
Spoon a generous desertspoonful onto each cake and use the back of the spoon to swirl.

Store and serve from the fridge - adds to the mint choc chip icecream taste if they are cold.

Another Polymer Clay Necklace

2009-07-13T17:06:00.007Z

Went to the polymer clay class again on Sat, and made this necklace. We were shown the big bead as a pendant and the smaller beads strung with other beads, and I thought neither of them were really my style, but once I made them and put them together in the one necklace I was really pleased with the result.

I used 2 colours of brownish clay, a Sculpey texture sheet in Sticks and Stones. and black acrylic paint, which was brushed on then wiped off. I also used ceramic spaces and Tibental silver beads.

Thanks for looking.

Another First from Me

2009-07-06T17:25:00.004Z

I went to my first ever polymer clay bead class on Saturday and it was absolutely fab. Such a friendly group and so welcoming - I went home feeling like I had known everyone for years. It was great value for money as well. This is what we made.

We used white, turquoise and green clay, varioys pokey-things and some acrylic paints. I'm really happy with the finished product (although there are a few imperfections) and wore it to work today - go a couple of compliments on it.

Thanks for looking

My First Attempt at Glass Beadmaking

2009-06-30T18:49:00.003Z

I made these beads at the class I went to on Sunday -the other people in the class seemed to make more than me, but I didn't care because they had all worked with glass before.

The yellow, light amber and last amber were my last 3 and I really think I was beginning to get a hang of it by then. These ones seem much rounder etc and I felt I was more in control when I was doing them. You might see some bead release, because I didn't have time to clean them and my file is too big, and I also can't use them as wanted to take them home straight away instead of having them annealed (I knew they weren't up to a high enough standard to use in any jewellery. That said, I am inordinately proud of them and hoping to do another class in August.

I'd love to get a kit for making them, but realistically I don't have much spare time on my hands at the moment, so can't really justify the outlay for something I wouldn't utilise very often - hopefully at some point in the future, once I've had a bit more practice, I will be able to do it. Also meant to ask at the studio where the class was if it's possible to hire out kiln space etc.

Off to a polymer clay bead making class this Saturday, although this one only lasts a couple of hours and isn't expensive - I have most of the stuff I'd need for clay beads, but just thought it would be nice to get a little bit of tuition instead of trying to learn from a book all the time - sometimes it's nice to see someone actually making things to learn techniques etc.

Piece of Cake

2009-06-28T08:22:00.003Z

Had Stu's parents and my Mum round for dinner last weekend, so decided to attempt a baked cheesecake. Used a recipe from Nigella's Domestic Goddess book and it was very yummy indeed. One word of advice though - if you're ever making this cake, the cooling/setting time after cooking is 3 hours (cooking time another 1.5 hours on top of that), which doesn't leave a lot of time to chill the thing if you don't start making it until 3pm. Had to try and chill it in the freezer and resorted to mutter at it chill you damn thing. Anyway's here's a slice fo the end result:

Was at Paul & Kirsty's summer party last night - had a great time, even though I was driving and it was dry (not like last year!!) so we managed to sit outside.

Going to a glass bead making class taught by Rachel Elliott today - just off to get dressed shortly - really excited about it, although as it's my first time the beads I make prob won't be particularly pretty.

Lotus Bangle

2009-06-22T18:07:00.006Z

Remember the lovely pink and purple beads I posted last week, well this is what I made with them. The pattern is by the ultra-talented Jennifer Airs

Also got this book last week, so have started learning shapes because I want to make almost everthing in it - the Moroccan lanterns (shown on the cover) are absolutely stunning, but probably way beyond my skill level at the moment.

Went to the Take That gig at Hampden on Saturday - only knew on Thursday I was going, as G called to say she knew someone who knew someone who could get 2 people in if Stu and I wanted to go. Never ones to turn down a freebie we jumped at the chance. Was a really really good show; obviously a lot of time and money had gone into designing the set and show. The mechanical elephant was fab and Stu and I were singing along to quite a few numbers. One of the support acts, Gary Go, was also really good. The other support was James Morrison, of whom least said the better!

Thanks for looking.

Pinks & Purples

2009-06-18T17:57:00.003Z

I ordered this delicious section of beads on Monday and they arrived on Tuesday.

The bright pinks are a colour called orchid and I think it just may be my new favourite colour in the world.

I put them to use straight away, starting on this bangle:

It's done in peyote, the same technique I learned for my spiral bangle. Was a little bit tricky at first, but once I had the first "V" done, it go much easier.

At the weekend I went to little Samuel's first birthday party, held at the Boilerhouse in the Hidden Gardens at Tramway in Glasgow. Great venue, really really interesting garden and a glorious day. The birthday boy had a great time playing in the dirt and it was good to catch up with my cousins again.

Think I am going to Take That on Saturday - looks like I managed to wrangle a couple of freebies - still waiting for it to be confirmed though.

Til the next post, bloggy-types.

Finally Finished

2009-06-14T07:57:00.005Z

I finally finished the beaded bangle I was making. I'ts taken me 2 weeks to day, and if I'm being perfectly honest, I'm not even sure I like it that much. I don't know if it was because I changed the beads slightly or bause of my tension, but my spirals don't seem as sharp or tight as the ones in the pattern.
Despite the apparent negativity above, I would love to do another of these bangles, maybe in fuschia and purple next time.

I made these utterly decadent red velvet cupcakes last weekend for Phil's BBQ. They seemed to go down a treat, altough I only had a small bite of one as wasn't that hungry (think that was the start of me not feeling well).
I still have a couple of them left, so may treat myself to one later.

Off to a first birthday party armed with pirate ship and cove later, Yarr. Then when I get home I'm going to try to get the last of the sie 15 seed beeds I dropped out of the keyboard - damn you sticky keys.

Poorly Sick

2009-06-10T14:14:00.002Z

I seem to have some sort of bug and have been off work for the past 3 days. I really really hate being off sick and thought yesterday afternoon I would be able to go back today, but last night and this morning I wasn't as good again. Definitely feel a bit better today, but playing it by ear and going to get up for an hour or 2 shortly. Means I have got nothing at all done all week, even though I had lots of things I wanted to get done.

On a good note, I signed up for my first glass beadmaking course today - it takes place a week on Sunday (21/06) and I am really excited about it.

Another Work in Progress

2009-06-02T18:57:00.003Z

I've still not done the polymer clay beads for my necklace, weather has been so nice and sunny and haven't wanted to be stuck in the spare room (which really needs decorated as it's quite dark). So, whilst my necklace awaits its finishing pieces, I decided to have a go at peyote stitch (which I had always been a bit chicken to try). I used a pattern from one of my Carol Wilcox Wells books (but changed some of the sizes to fit the beads I had).

Here's a sneaky peak of the bangle I decided to do. Not quite halfway yet and has taken a fair few hours so far.
I'm hoping it'll go well with the necklace, even though one is peyote and the other herringbone. Hopefully I have mixed sizes in both pieces and all the beads in the bangle are used in the necklace.

.....fingers crossed.

Thanks for looking

Super Sunny Sunday

2009-05-31T06:40:00.004Z

Another beautiful sunny day today. Up bright and early and heading off to Mum's later to take advantage of her garden (the only downside of living in a flat is that, although I have my own garden, it's not very private). Will take up some goodies and maybe make a picnic. Luckily it's not far, so can walk and have a couple of glasses of vino.

I've almost finished my necklace now, just need to make the polymer clay focals (which will be a bit of trial and error) and a little dangly bit then pull it all together. Don't think they'll be done today though, as don't want to be stuck indoors (expecially since there was only about 1 sunny weekend last year).

No new photos to post today, but this is the book I'm reading at the moment (actually I've almost finished it)I've really enjoyed it, but it probably isn't to everyone's taste. I loved her last book too (The Trophy Taker) and there is a new one due out in paperback in August. They're detective novels based in Hong Kong and deal with the (extremely) seedy side of life there (although most of the action in this one is in the Phillipines and London).

Talking of London, Stu and I were planning on visiting for a few days at the end of July, but when I priced it, it looks like being quite expensive, especially as we'd like to the the Rocky Mountaineer train in Cananda not next summer but the next again. So we've opted to do this instead - Jacobite Steam Train, and spend a couple of days in Fort William. I've never been up that way before, so should be fun. Oh, and this is the steam train that goes over the big bridge you seen in the Harry Potter films.

That's about it for now.

Take care bloggy-types.

Lisa xoxo

Work in Progress

2009-05-25T16:42:00.005Z

Remember the citrus beads I posted a pic of at the weekend? Well yesterday I started a new necklace with them. Only my 3rd attempt at doing off loom-beading and my first attempt at both herringbone and using different sized beads (I think the 2 necklaces I used before used a spiral rope, but can't really remember).

Here's a little pic of the first section:

As well as the beads that arrived on Saturday, I used some orange cats-eye beads. I did originally plan on also using some lime Swarovski crystals, but completely forgot about this plan until I was driving home from work today!!

Thansk for looking

What Lisa Did

2009-05-24T11:34:00.003Z

Yesterday I baked some banana muffins using one of Nigella's recipes. I love love love Nigella - everything I make using her recipes just seems to turn out well. These muffins are lovely and soft, yet almost chewy.

For lunch we went through to The Boat House in South Queensferry for a nice lunch. First time we've been there and will definitely be back. Really nice atmosphere and great views.

In the evening we went to see Nickelback at the SECC in Glasgow. Absolutely fantastic - great show. Black Stone Cherry were supporting - they were a lot better than the last time I saw them.

Off to make a start on my new necklace. Also need to do some tidying in the spare room at some point (spare room is like painting the Forth Bridge - it just never seems to be done).

Thanks for looking.

Lisa xoxo

New Seed Beads

2009-05-23T08:53:00.005Z

These seed beads arrived this morning. It's the first time I've had decent seed beads, as I've tended to do more stringing than off-loom stuff in the past.

I know the bright citrus colours may not be to everyone's taste, but I love them. The 2 oranges in the top row are actually the same colour (the paler of the 2). Once I teach myself how to do the styles I need I'll be able to get cracking on this making these into something.

As I enjoyed adding a couple of my favourite things in my last post, here's another:

This crystal globe was given to Stu and I as a wedding present from a couple of our neighbours. It's absolutely gorgeous - the globe itself is about 7 or 8 inches in diameter.

On a final note, finished my SVQ level 4 in Management, along with 2 enhancement units on Thursday. Really enjoyed doing it, but also really glad it is all done now.

Afternoon Tea, Anyone?

2009-05-18T17:13:00.006Z

A few weeks back Stu and I treated ourselves to a gorgeous Portmerion Crazy Daisy tea set... and I finally got round to taking a photo! I think it is gorgeous, but let me know what you think.
(Had to squish it into my little pop-up studio, hence rusbbish picture and looking a bit squashed{I love being able to use squish and squashed in the same sentence!!}).

We got the cake stand, teapot, milk jug, sugar bowl, 4 breakfast cups & saucers and 4 mini mugs (which also fit perfectly on the saucer). Coveting the egg cup and toast rack set too (although we'd need one each or there would be tears).

Whilst I was taking the photo I also took a pic of one of my current fave things, which is a little Columbian frog which Mum brought me back from holiday. Here he is........
Ribbit ribbit bloggy-types.

p.s.take a look at James May's plasticine garden at the Chelsea Flower Show.
I loved plasticine when I was little - much better than playdoh (which I wasn't allowed to play with anyway cos the smell made my Mum feel sick).

Tools of the Trade

2009-05-16T17:15:00.003Z

I'm treating myself to an order for a nice batch of tools for polymer/Art clay today. Hoping to make my own clay beads as have such a desire to get back beading again, but really want to try something new. I got a really good book on polymer clay beads a couple of years ago and also bought a little starter Art Clay Silver kit from someone round about the same time. Hopefully will have something nice to post soon.

Also keen to try lampworking classes, but will have to put that on the back burner for a few months, as still have one VQ assessment to go and then need to spend some time doing stuff around the house.

You Don't Always Realise...

2009-05-12T18:29:00.004Z

... the good stuff that's on your own doorstep.

A couple of weeks ago we went to the Bo'ness & Kinneil Steam Railway and then to Birkhill Fireclay Mine. We had a fantastic time and it had the added bonus of only being a 15 minute drive away.

Quick Update (and a couple of holiday photos)

2009-03-31T19:21:00.015Z

Hey bloggy-types. I'm still around and nothing much has changed since I last posted. Still working away at my VQ - hoping in 6 weeks from now I'll be the proud owner of a Level 4 Management VQ though. Working hard at work too, although looking forward to nice summer nights, finishing at 5 and going for a run and stuff (in the car obviously!!) and not starting til 9 the next morning.

Still not gutted/decorated the spare room, although we have made a start on it - can't wait to get my workspace back again so I can start making stuff. Really wishing I had listened to my mum and not got a glass desk though - look pretty but like working over the black hole of Calcutta.

Thought you might like to see a couple of my holiday photos:

Domincan Republic

Tortola in the British Virgin Islands

Antigua

Barbados

Scotland District of Barbados

St Lucia
Miami
Grand Cayman

Cozumel

Boat

Me & Stu

Quick Update

2009-02-26T19:50:00.004Z

Can't believe it's been quarter of a year since I updated this!! Stu and I are just back from holiday/honeymoon to the Caribbean - was fab - will upload some photos soon (already thinking about where to go next year).

No cards or jewellery to show I'm afraid, as haven't done any in months. I need to redecorate this room to see if that gets my oomph back.

Had a pretty rough start to the year which wasn't a very happy time. Still working away and doing my VQ stuff (halfway there, so hopefully will have it finished in next 6 months or so). Will do a proper catch-up at the weekend.

Here Comes the Bride

2008-11-25T19:59:00.006Z

Can't believe it's over 3 weeks now and I've still not even posted a picture. Still waiting to see everyone's and get my book back, but here's a couple people have sent me so far.

Now that things are going back to normal, I'm really going to get stuck in about designing some new jewellery. I realy sickened myself of this 2 or 3 years back, when I seemed to just be doing jewellery for people constantly and it did take the enjoyment out of it for me.

I'm still enjoying making cards again, but completely not sweating it if I don't get any Christmas ones done - after all it's not the end of the world is it (also still need to get wedding thank you cards finished and posted).

Looking to get this spare room decorated, as I feel it's too dark, especially as we still have cds and dvds everywhere - got some units arriving on Saturday for these though, so that should make a difference.

Off to do some blog-hopping shortly, as I've missed catching up on everyone's news.

Toodles xoxo

You're my Guitar Hero

2008-11-13T20:15:00.007Z

Can't believe it's been so long since I posted. So much has happened since September, not least the fact that I got married on 1st Nov!!!! We had a fantastic sunny day and managed to get plenty of photos done outside, which was definitely a bonus we were not expecting.

I was pretty tied up doing all the stationery and favours (as well as being really really busy at work), hence the reason for the posting gap. Beginning to get some energy back now, although so glad we decided not to go on honeymoon until February.

Another bit of great news is that one of my best friends has recently found out she's having a baby, so I'll be an auntie!!!

New Guitar Hero band pack is out tomorrow, along with the new one for the DS, so guess where Stu and I will be heading after work. We've actually got it on pre-order at Game as they were offering a free bass guitar when you pre-ordered. New WoW expansion pack came out today - not got it yet, as I've really let my WoW time slip (so much so I cancelled my subs about a year ago), but hoping to stop working late so often to enable me to free up some fun time for myself - fed up being tired and drained all the time.

Anyways that's my update for the moment - more just to announce my return to blogland than anything else.

See you all soon (if I have any readers left).

Toodles xoxo

Spicy 3-Sausage Pasta

2008-09-21T13:14:00.005Z

Although it's never going to win any beauty contests, this dish is one of my favourites (especially now that autumn is drawing in). It's hyper speedy to make and really tasty.

As well as some pasta (I just used dried 3-colour spirals as I had some in the cupboard), you will need 3 types of sausage (cocktail sausages, mini salami and hotdogs), bell pepper (any colour), hot sauce (at the moment I'm using Cholula, but Encona/Tabasco etc will do the same job), tomato puree and creme fraiche.

Chop the sausages and pepper into pieces approx 1.5". In a small/medium pan, heat some olive oil and gently fry the pepper for a couple of minutes. Throw in the sausage, a few dashes of balsamic vinegar and some sugar and continue to fry for a couple of minutes. Now start to boil the water for the pasta and throw pasta in once boiling. Add a good splodge of tomato puree (enougth to amply coat the sausages and pasta) and hot sauce (as much or little as you like!!), and cook a bit more. When pasta is just about ready to drain stir some creme fraiche into the sauce mixture. Drain pasta and add to sauce. Serve with some grated parmesan and black pepper.

Thanks for looking.

Lisa xoxo

For my Mum

2008-09-16T21:54:00.005Z

Tomorrow's Mum's birthday, so I made her this card.

The background paper is Dovecraft Hint of Pink (from my new stash). Flower dies are Bosskut Wild Flower and Wildflower Cutout. Font dies are Curly Girlie. The border is one of the Cuttlebug Frills Border embossing folders (also from new stash - I love love love using new stuff). Edges are inked with Dark Peony Cats Eye Chalk Ink (I think this colour is just fab!).

Here's a little close up of the border embossing - I bought these and thought I might never use them, but actually I really like this one.

I'm quite liking my white background for a bit of a change, although I really need to make myself a banner for my title. A long time since I've done anything like that, so may have to trawl for a tutorial.

Toodles

Lisa xoxo

A Bunch of Stuff

2008-09-15T22:00:00.007Z

After a few weeks of not really making anything, managed to get a few things done this week.

I had a call from a colleague on Thursday who needed a pair of earrings to wear on Saturday night. As I was busy Thursday and working Saturday morning, I made them on Friday and she popped round to pick them up Saturday afternoon. I had never thought of putting these colours together (well would have put some of them together, but not the lilac), but they turned out really nice.

As it was a last-minute order, I had to scramble about and use stuff I had which fitted the colour remit of orange, red, yellow, black and lilac. She also wanted chunky. I've had these orangy/yellowy discs for a while and always liked them. The others were just picked from my jumble of beads. I threaded the discs on eyepins, the top section on eyebins and the bottom danglers on headpins and just hooked the lot together.

Thursday was Stu's birthday, so I made him a cake. I asked him what sort of cake he wanted and he decided on chocolate. I don't like chocolate cake, except for Black Forest Gateau, so made one of those - not the prettiest thing ever, but it tasted really nice. I didn't have any kirsch though and couldn't see any in the Asda next to work, so just added some vodka to the cherry juice!

I also made this card for him. I always struggle a bit with man cards (I think most people do), but did manage to find a nice Metallica font, which kept the rock god happy, especially since Death Magnetic was released on his birthday. I've used DCWV Rock Star papers, inked with dark peony Cat's Eye chalk inks. The font is Pastor of Muppets, with the last letters being Pastor of Muppets Flipped.

Treated myself to one of those little portable studios from Maplin everyone has been raving about and I love it (even though I've only used it once, to photograph the earrings). Still need to faff around with it a bit though, as I was getting quite a bit of reflection of the glass on the background, although I think it looks quite nice. Anyways, I'm great at faffing, so shouldn't be too much of a hardship.

Thanks for looking. Toodles xoxo

In the Middle...

2008-09-15T21:59:00.001Z

...of changing my blog layout, so sorry it's a bit of a shambles atm - still getting to grips with this drag and drop way, plus internet has been mega slow tonight.

New Stash

2008-08-31T13:43:00.004Z

Popped into my local craft shop, for some pearly card blanks for wedding menus, sadly the only one left in town from about 6 a couple of years ago - unless you count the paltry collection W H Smiths have (but I'm not speaking to them anyway after rushing into town after work one day for something only to find it all closed up and in darkness at 23 mins past 5 when they're meant to open until 5:30!).

Anyway along with my blanks, some other stuff popped into my hand, then I had to order white 12x12 card from Papermill (local shop only stocks Bazzil, which is fab, but too thin for the thing I was doing) - so I ended up with this little bundle of extras:

From Papermill I got DCVW Rock Star 8x8 pad and Dovecraft Funky Masculine Brads. From my local shop I got 2 sets of Cuttlebug embossing folders - Snowflakes which I wanted since last winter and Frill Borders (which I thought looked really nice, but now that I have them home I'm not sure if I'll use them. I also go Dovecraft Rose Tinted Christmas and Winter Wonderland brads, Winter Wonderland, Fantasy, A Hint of Pink & Wedding 6x6 pads, DCVW Rose Tinted Christmas & Christmas Wishes 6x6 pads and a Laura Ashley Contemporary 6x6 pad.

Now to use it all (and perhaps have a bit of a clearout of existing stuff).

Toodles xoxo

Invitations

2008-08-27T20:24:00.003Z

I managed to get my wedding invitations sent out last week. Everyone should have theirs by now, so reckoned it was safe to post here (not that most of the people coming along read this blog!!).

Unfortunately because I printed them on pearly card and I'm a pretty crap photographer they look a bit speckled here(they don't look like that in real life - just pale gold pearly).

Stu got measured for his new kilt at the weekend and put the deposit down on it - should be ready 2 or 3 weeks before the wedding.

On other matters, I have had the strangest desire to sew and was thinking of half inching my mum's sewing machine as she never uses it. Don't know what I fancied making, but had visions of me running up little beach bags and decorating stuff I already have - maybe that needs to be hand sewn - I really have no clue.

Also weirdly (I don't know what's come over me these days - keep thinking I'll do stuff I normally have no interest in), I was in my local craft shop buying blanks for my menus, when I spotted nice pink and black DCWV Christmas papers in 1 6x6 pad. I also saw a nice blue Dovecraft one and then another DCWV in red and green, so I bought them all (along with some Christmas brads) - really odd since I hardly even give out cards at Christmas - who knows maybe this year will be different (but if you're one of my friends reading this, please please don't hold your breath, as you'll probably end up dead and that would make me feel guilty!!!!)

Off to do something productive now - had a long list, but had to go back into work for a couple of hours tonight just as I was getting settled.

Toodles xoxo

Update on Things in General

2008-08-20T18:26:00.005Z

Can't believe it's been almost a month since I blogged, but it's not been down to laziness - I've just had so much stuff going on. Work as hectic as every and now doing my Management Level 4 VQ as well. Also been having a bit of a clear out at home, so we can get things a bit more organised with 2 people's stuff.

We got rid of the kitchen table and chair, which weren't used that often (although I tended to use all the chairs and the table as extra surfaces to dump bags and stuff. Instead we now have this dresser:

Stu spied it in a charity shop on his way home from work one day, so it was an absolute bargain. I love it to bits.

Got all my wedding invites posted today (well apart from half a dozen I didn't have addresses for, but got those today, so they'll go tomorrow. Will post a pic in a couple of days once people have theres.

I did this jewellery set for a colleague of my sister. First time I've used purple, amber/topaz and turquoise together but I really liked it. In fact for once I didn't want to part with it - strange thing is S bought it to give as a present for her sister and didn't want to give it away either.

Pendant is Swarovski teardrop with glass beads hung on a dark brown ribbon and bracelet is assorted glass beads interspersed with 4 colours of purple Swarovski bicones.

Thanks for looking.

Toodles xoxo

Turning Japanese

2008-07-22T19:40:00.004Z

Part of the reason I've not been making many cards and have almost completely given up doing jewellery (although only on a temporary basis!!) is because I am so into cooking (and kitchen gadgets) at the moment. On my list is a decent food processor, a bread maker and an ice-cream maker. I tried out my first silicone baking tray at the weekend, and I loved it, so now I want a few more.

Anyways, on Saturday I decided to have a go at Sushi. I acquired a gadget called Sushi Magic and this was the result:

I was really pleased as it was the first time I've ever attempted it. But really it wasn't too difficult. The Californian rolls weren't quite right and I didn't have enough rice left over to make maki. The bowl in the top left has soy sauce and pickled ginger in the top right. I added some mini rice crackers in the middle bowl to balance things out. Obviously I made more than 4 pieces - here is the everything I made:

Stu the guinea-pig was well impressed. I think he thought at first it didn't look very much, but we couldn't finish it all between us as it was really filling.

I would definitely recommend having a go at making it, although I may have struggled without the Sushi Magic (it has moulds for the nigiri and has a rolling mat for the maki/Californian rolls, which was pretty easy to use.

Thanks for looking.

xoxo

Still around

2008-07-22T19:33:00.005Z

Well sort of. I just never seem to have any time for stuff these days - I'm sure I'll be back on track again soon though. I did make this rush card for a workmate - the first one I've done in ages:

I used Blonde Moments papers, metallic DCWV card, Sizzix Girls are Weird Alphabet and the cake was made using a Sculpey push mould. Edges are inked with Cats Eye Dark Peony.

I've also been busy doing my wedding invites - got both the all-day and evening ones finished now - just need to do the inserts and addresses. I'm really pleased with the way they've turned out and will post a pic once I've sent them out.

Next will be working on a layout for place names at the tables and a cover for the CD w're going to do for favours.

Thanks for looking.

xoxo

Her Space:My Space - Hand

2008-07-09T21:06:00.004Z

The lovely Sue set the challenge today for Her Space:My Space today:

YOU NEED HANDS - MAX BYGRAVES - 1958 - PHOTO PROMPT

This picture shows why I am a secretary and not a hand model, although I do like my hands :D.

Thanks for looking.

Lisa xoxo

HS:MS Ring

2008-07-08T20:24:00.005Z

I've not done the Her Space:My Space challenges for ages - but have really missed doing them.

Here's today's
RING

A small circular band. Find a ring in your space today.

From left to right they are: silver zig zag ring bought in Mallorca, my gorgeous white gold and diamond engagement ring, silver ball ring bought in Ibiza and silver swirly ring bought locally. In case you can't guess, I love long rings.

Thanks for looking. xoxo

Bambi in the Dock

2008-07-08T19:34:00.002Z

Hey bloggy-types, a little story with a happy ending from me today. Got a call at work to say a baby deer was in the dock up to it's neck in water. This has happened before with other animals, but a little baby deer - poor thing. Luckily by the time we went to investigate the fire brigade and a tanker driver had fished Bambi out and he had done a runner - probably scared witless, but he'll hopefully learn a lesson.

All geared up with my wellies, cagoul and camping chair in preparation for T in the Park this weekend - have a feeling weather's not going to be great considering there's only be 2 days in the past 2.5 weeks when it hasn't rained and often the rain has been torrential, as I discovered to my misfortune last Thursday when I left my car window open whilst visiting Stu's Nan. Had a bit of a soggy bum all the way home!!!

Back to work yesterday and my office has been all nicely decorated. My new filing cabinets have also arrived, so I'll be a busy little bee over the next couple of weeks.

Wedding plans all going swimmingly (unlike little Bambi!). Printed out all the invites and stuck the ribbon on, although still have inserts to do and would like to add some crystals too.

Stu and I went to a re-launch at Westerwood a couple of weeks ago. Was very impressive, great meal, lovely room and fantastic service (plus it was all free which is always a bonus!!)

Thinking of starting to put recipes in a blog, but not sure whether to use this one or start a food one - feedback would be appreciated. I love reading recipe blogs and love cooking so it shouldn't be too difficult.

Still miles behind with making jewellery and cards. Just seem to have no mojo at all - hoping it will return soon.

Toodles for now xoxo

Wedding Fever

2008-06-18T20:00:00.007Z

Finally a chance to update. Stu's sister got married last Monday. It was a lovely day and bride and groom looked fab (as did the bridesmaids and ushers!!)

Bride & Groom

Not long til ours now too - I must get myself into gear with losing weight - on holiday for the next 2 weeks so that should give me a good start - always easier away from work.

Looks like I have a final design for my invites now - will get them printed off soon, so that all I need to do closer to the time will be the inserts.

Also got holiday booked for next year - off on a Caribbean cruise in February - can't wait.

Did these card for colleagues as well:

60th Birthday

Teacher

New addition to family 80th Birthday Ruby Wedding Hopefully I'll have some time when I'm off work to do more cards and my first jewellery in ages. I really envy those people who seem to be able to get so much done.

Toodles xoxo

Long Overdue

2008-06-04T18:55:00.002Z

I'm afraid I've neglected my blog lately - just been so busy with other stuff and not had a whole lot to report.

Still coming to terms with my inhalers - was doing much better (peak flows up to 475 from below 370) but in the meantime I've had a new bathroom put in which is fully tiled, which led a a layer of tile dust over everything I own, so now I'm struggling again (and tired too!!), although I know it won't last forever.

Anyway too much gloom and doom and I'm not really one for self-pity. Bathroom is great - needs the finishing touches still, but so so much better :D:D:D

Stu's sister gets married on Monday, so we're looking forward to that.

Not sure what we're going to do re holidays yet - might try to get a last minute deal or might just spend the money on tarting up the flat a bit more.

I've made a sum total of no cards and no jewellery in the past couple of months, although I have 5 cards, a pair of earrings to make and a necklace to alter (all for Friday, so need to get my butt into gear). I did treat myself to a lovely little colour laser printer for doing my wedding invites.

Still enjoying wii-ing around - got Mario Kart which is great fun.

Will catch up again soon.

xoxo

Puff the Magic Dragon...

2008-05-12T19:36:00.002Z

...lives by the sea.

My first news for today is I now have 2 puffers after a trip to the docs on Friday. I get a terrible wheezy cough everytime I'm ill and because my immune system's been a bit lowered since I recovered from the stomach bug in October, it's been more apparent. Mum & G pointed it out when we were at the Chop House on Thursday night. I'm totally gutted about it but hoping the puffers help and I can stop using them soon, cos I am not very good at it.

Sorry I've not blogged much lately. No craft stuff to show. New job going well and started my Management Level 4 VQ. Bathroom getting fitted in next few weeks and spare room still chaos, but we'll need to get that sorted soon for Stu moving in.

Got some nice photos a couple of weeks ago in Linlithgow, but need to download them, so will try to post later in the week.

Toodles for now xoxo

Try looking back more...

2008-04-22T19:28:00.002Z

...on days that were slower.

Stu and I finished watching the box set of Huckleberry Finn & Friends (remember that one, bloggy-types??) It was well good, especially the episodes with Tom Sawyer in them. We also finished th New Avengers last night and have started on Hart to Hart.

I'm afraid I've not made anything for the last couple of weeks - really need to gut this room and get back into it. Every time I'm in here at the moment I just look around at the chaos and my creativity seems to vanish.

Really loving my new job, although put in a fair few extra hours already.

Nothing much else to say though I'm afraid. Will be back soon though (hopefully with something to show next time!!)

Toodles xoxo

Let me take you down...

2008-04-09T21:47:00.003Z

... cos we're going to...

Decided to call this bracelet Strawberry Fields. Would have had it finished last week, I discovered when I went to finish it off that my last end crimp cover didn't have a hole in it, so I had to order more.

Can't do one of the little close up photos I've been using lately as for some reason Photoshop won't work tonight (I've even tried reinstalling) so have had to use Paintshop Pro instead and I don't like using it (plus I'm completely crap at it).

Thanks for looking.

Toodles xoxo

First in ages

2008-04-03T20:38:00.003Z

I'm ashamed to admit this is the first piece of jewellery I've made in about a year - have so much stock and just completely lost my beading mojo. The photo is crap on this one, but the earrings are amber, turquoise and amethyst colours - they are for a colleague who has a necklace in these colours.

Thanks for looking

Eggstremely Late

2008-04-01T21:41:00.011Z

Yup, Easter was well over a week away and I'm just getting around to posting the cards I made!!

First one was for Stu:

I've used Making Memories Ethan and DCWV papers/card. Bunny cut using Quickutz Peekaboo Bunny, nameplate is Sizzix and font used is Quickutz Sunshine.

---------------------------------

This one uses papers from my local craft shop and card is DCVW metallics. Nameplate again is Sizzix and Easter Egg is hand cut and embossed using the Cuttlebug Swirls folder.

--------------------------------------------

Final one uses English Paper Company papers and a Quickutz chick. Tag is a Bosskuts one and Easter Egg is again hand cut and embossed using Cuttlebug dots folder.

----------------------------------------------

Finally, it was Stu's Dad's 60th on Easter Sunday, so I made him this card. papers used are Making Memories Ethan (I actually forgot I had these papers and they are so good for guy cards), number is hand cut and inked and font is Quickutz Sunshine. Thanks for looking and toodles for now xoxo

Recent Reviews

2008-03-19T19:51:00.007Z

Ok, I've been promising myself to do this for a while now, so have a few up my sleeve. First the films:

A couple of weeks ago we watched CONTROL which was fabulous, but definitely not what you could call a "feelgood" movie, which suits me just fine.

If you don't already know, it's about the life and untimely death of Ian Curtis, lead singer of Joy Division. It's all filmed in black and white, which makes it very atmospheric. Soundtrack is wonderful and Sam Riley is just fabulous in the lead role.

A definite must-see as far as I'm concerned and it defintely deserves a 5-star rating. Best non-fluff film I've seen in forever.

******
The next film we watched was STARDUST. This one didn't hugely appeal to me, but I had to eat my words as it was very enjoyable. Very fairytale-ish, but not at all babyish, it had a great story to it, was well-acted and generally just really good.

You'll probably know the main song from Take That, which is a good tune for a feel-good movie. I'll give this one a 4-star rating. Michelle Pfeiffer is fab in it and Robert de Niro has some cracking scenes. You'll also see Ricky Gervias, who even manages to slip in his "are you having a laugh" line from Extras.

****

On a don't bother watching thread, it has to be DEATH PROOF. I absolutely loved the Tarrantino classics (Reservior Dogs, Pulp Fiction, True Romance), but this was such a disappointment we traded it in the day after we bought it. The first 30 mins or so were ok, and left you with the feeling it was going to get better, but it just didn't.

A massive let-down is about the best that can be said about it, hence the 2-star rating (actually I did seriously consider only giving it one, and may still change this).

Onto books now. Recently finished THE ALEXANDRIA LINK by Steve Berry. The blurb on the back reads:

"Cotton Malone is in trouble. His son has been kidnapped and his bookshop in Copenhagen attacked, all because he is the only man alive who knows the whereabouts of the Alexandria Link - the means of locating the most important cache of ancient knowledge ever assembled: the legendary Library of Alexandria, which vanished without trace fifteen hundred years ago."

I loved this book. A great adventure, with a few twists in the tale, it grips you from start to finish. If you're familiar with THE TEMPLAR LEGACY you'll meet up with a few characters you already know and find out a bit more about them. A definite 4-stars from me.

****

I still have to do some game reviews, but as this has already become a bit of an epic post, I'll wait a day or too.

Thanks for reading my blurb. xoxo

Thi-thi-thi-thi-thirty

2008-03-17T19:37:00.005Z

It was KB's 30th at the weekend. Party had a mod/northern soul/motown slant to it and it was well good. Since he's right into his rugby, I made this card for him - put the local team colours in the "3".

Hand cut the number and rugby ball using DCWV cardstock and chalked the edges. Grass paper is from a DCWV stack (you know when you look at a stack of paper and think to yourself "when on earth will I ever use that one? Well, bingo!!)

Got another party this week - need to make a CD with 10 songs with the first letter of my name for it. I've sort of picked mine out, so it'll just be a case of burning them onto a disc.

Toodles xoxo

Just Stuff

2008-03-13T21:11:00.005Z

Hello bloggy-types, hope you are all well. I'm doing just fine and dandy and still managing to dodge bullets :D:D
Got a few book/film/game reviews, but I'll leave that for the weekend when I'm in full-on geek mode.
Here's a pic of a card I did for one of my friends at work:

The papers are Making Memories Kids in Kate, the buckes and buttons are Sizzix, the Tag is Bosskut and the font is Rebekah's Birthday. The gorgeous white flower (sorry my botany skills are crap so I have no idea what kind it is, but it looks a bit like an orchid) is part of my Craft Fairies Design Team kit.

Thanks for looking.

Lisa xoxo

HS:MS Relief

2008-03-13T21:03:00.003Z

The challenge over at Her Space My Space for today was:

RELIEF

Creating a mold that stands out from it's surface or a feeling of reassurance and relaxation. Find 'relief' in your space today.

Nothing sums up relief for me more than getting into my jammies and cosy socks when I get home from work!

HS:MS Listen

2008-03-12T21:07:00.003Z

The challenge for the day over at Her Space:My Space was:

LISTEN

To give your attention to a sound. Find 'listen' in your space today.

This is what I listen to. There is a reason I have 2 of them, but it's a bit long and really not very exciting - suffice to say if you get a hard disc error on the big one, don't panic - there are ways of fixing it (and it's a very hardy bit of kit!!)

Thanks for looking.

Lisa xoxo

HS:MS Flood

2008-03-11T20:52:00.004Z

Had to do a major cheat with the Her Space:My Space challenge today.

FLOOD
An overflowing of a large amount of liquid. Find a 'flood' in your space today:

Yup, I know it's a page from a book, but it was dark when I got home from work (I do pass a fantastic flood on the way to and from work, but it's at a bit where you can't just stop and get out. I had to compromise, so it's a photo of a painting of a flood from a book, with Photoshop water droplets added.

Hope I can do better tomorrow.

Lisa xoxo

HS:MS Ticket

2008-03-10T18:15:00.004Z

My first HS:MS challenge for a while - camera broke on holiday in October, and had quite a lot on my plate since I got my new one at Christmas - hopefully I'm back on track again now though.

TICKET - A piece of paper or card that give the holder a certain right, usually to enter a place. Show us a 'ticket' in your space today.

Thanks for looking.

Oh Baby!!!

2008-03-06T20:13:00.018Z

My wee cousin had a little girl at the weekend - chuffed to bits for them as I think at some points over the last few years they thought the day would never come. Went up to see her last night with Mum & G and made cards for us to take up - here they are (N.B. I've tried to do photos instead of scans for a change as I'm always jealous when I see other people's beautifully photographed items). I used Fimo embellishments for all 3 of them, cos I love Fimo on baby cards for some reason.

This is the one Stu and I gave her:

Papers are Making Memories Cosmopolitan, teddy and feet are fimo, square and frame are Cuttlebug and letters are cut using Curly Girlie.

Mum gave her this one with the baby in a pink nappy:

Papers are DCWV, nameplate and corners are Sizzix, circle and frame are Cuttlebug embossed with a Cuttlebug emobssing folder and font is QK Sunshine.

The last one with the tag and pram is the one G gave:

Papers were from my local craft shop, embossed using a Sizzix Big Impressions plate tag and butterfly tag were cut with Sizzix dies and font is Girls are Weird.

Life in general is ticking away nicely. Hoping to get moved into my new job in the next few weeks (but we have to get someone in place for my current one first!), although getting paid at new salary so that's ok. Will also be enrolling for a VQ Management Level 4 course next week.

Not really added any more wedding plans, although have an appointment with the florist on Saturday.

As always I do promise to try to update more frequently than I have done lately - just had a lot of stuff going on and time just seems to fly by - one day I will be organised though :D:D

Toodles xoxo

Up the Ladder

2008-02-13T21:12:00.005Z

Sorry it's been so long since I last posted, been lots going on recently and just haven't had the time. Still working away at the massive clear out - couldn't do it without Stu who has been a great help. Now have dining room, big hall cupboard and lock up done. Need to start on little hall cupboard and build the rest of the bedroom furniture next. Then it'll be some extra kitchen wall units (I have a spare wall in there anyway) then the chaos that will be the bathroom.

Got some good news on Friday - got promoted at work - well chuffed about - will be quite a challenge, but I'm sure I'll love it. As a congrats, Stu gave me my birthday present early - a Nintendo DS with Big Brain Academy and Brain Training. Got my brain age down to 20 tonight, which is not bad going as I've only done the daily brain age 6 times. A bit disappointed it didn't unlock more of the training games - heacount was my last one (and the first one I've managed to get a rocket for my speed). Big Brain Academy is great too - think my best is about 1560g and a B+.

As well as having my nose glued to the screen I made this card in the early hours of Tuesday morning for everyone at work to sign for a colleague who's going off on maternity leave.

A bit of a crappy scan as Fimo teddy made it sit wonky. Also bubble green circle was definitely not as lime as that!! Really must get to grips with taking photos of cards instead of scans. Paper was some I got from a local craft shop (in fact the only one left in town now I think). Photo corners are Sizzix, circle with frame are Cuttlebug, embossed with Tiny Bubbles embossing folder and teddy is made of Fimo using a Sculpey push mould.

Got P & K coming to dinner on Sat, so will need to cook something nice - thinking of having venison, cos I love it and haven't had it in ages, and I think I'll do a sweet instead of starter, as K has quite a sweet tooth.

Finished The Alexander Cipher by Will Adams at the weekend. Was a really good read - if you like things like The DaVinci Code and The Righteous Men you'll probably enjoy it as much as I did.

Wedding update now (hope I'm not boring you with all the wedding talk) - G has her bridesmaid dress and really likes it - I love it too, but not seen her in it yet, we also got another one the same, to pull apart and make a dress for P - that way they'll both have the same fabric.

Think that's all I've got to report for now. Hoping to get Mario & Sonic at the Olympics for the Wii on Friday, so will give a review of that next week.

Toodles for now xoxo

GONNA DRESS YOU UP...

2008-01-28T18:51:00.000Z

My dress is here, and it's absolutely gorgeous. Even better than I imagined. Love it to bits :D:D:D:D

New furniture came on Sat but not had time to build it yet as I was a tad hung over yesterday :(

Stu got us Guitar Hero and Zelda for the Wii on Friday - great fun, but amazing how half an hour suddenly turns into over 3 hours. Also renewed my WoW subs yesterday, so looks like the next few weeks will be a bit of a gamesfest.

Not got round to making much over the weekend, although might do a bit later on tonight - want to finish off clearing my desk first through (almost there with it!!).

Just a fleeting visit tonight, so toodles for now xoxo

Quick Update

2008-01-24T19:25:00.000Z

Sorry for the lack of stuff to show yet again - just don't know where the time has gone the last couple of weeks - don't seem to be sticking to my strict 9-5 rule at work very much - I promise I will next week though. Got another of my items for the Craft Fairies DT started, but going to wait til it's completed to show.

Apart from that I don't think anything much has happened - crappy blog, I know but sometimes we all have weeks like that. Been clearing out a lot of house stuff so that takes time I suppose - you should see the big hall cupboard now - wow I keep opening the door and walking in right up to the end, just because I can!!

Still no sign of the wedding dress - been a bit of a screw-up with the shop, but should get it all sorted out by the weekend. Wish the top layers of my hair would hurry up and grown down a bit as desperate to get it cut -I look so hideously frumpy at the moment. Also need to sit down and work on some ideas for invites - would like to get the outsides done in plenty time so that all I have to do later on in the year is add the inserts.

Roof still not fixed yet, as the weather has been pretty awful, but luckily doesn't seem to be much water getting in - just a few drips if it's really heavy rain and blowing a certain way.

Sorry for boring you all to sleep with this posting, bloggyy-types - promise I'll have more exciting news soon (well I will if anything exciting happens!!)

Toodles xoxo

Wow!!!

2008-01-14T20:27:00.000Z

Can't quite believe how much Stu and I achieved lately. Since Thursday, as well as being at work full time, we have managed to set a date for the wedding (1 November 2008), book a venue, photographer and DJ, agree on 90% of the guest list and 75% of the menu, oh and I've ordered a dress to try as well!! Now that I've seen the venue, I have a fair idea of how I want the day to look, although there's no chance of my becoming a bridezilla as I'm pretty laid back about it all.

On the downside, I woke up yesterday morning to a large puddle on the kitchen floor - looks like the storm last week did a fair bit of damage to the roof. Dealing with it through the buildings insurance, but let's just say when my policy comes up for renewal I certainly won't be going back with Direct Line - because I'm in a flat they are only willing to send me a cheque for 1/6 of the cost, instead of getting all the other owners insurance details and then claiming it back from then, so I'm having to do all the legwork, meanwhile the water is coming in through my kitchen light and obviously I can't get the electric wiring looked at and fixed until the roof is done.

I did have a list of things I was going to make tonight, but cos of all the hassle earlier, I just had something to eat then a mega long bath. Got a couple of things to do for tomorrow, then may make a couple of cards, or may just play Super Mario Galaxy instead - just a couple of stars I promise ;D

Watched the darts final last night - was well exciting. Can't wait for the PDC game to come out on the Wii - it was meant to be this week, but it's now been put back til 08/02.

See you all soon bloggy-types.

Toodles xoxo

First Offerings...

2008-01-09T21:33:00.000Z

...of the year and for the Craft Fairies DT. I still have lots of goodies to work my way through, but thought I'd post my first efforts.

Here are the goodies I got:

So far I've made this:

Covered using DCWV card and paper I had in my box. Flower were also part of my DT goodies. Ric rac was stuff I already had. Twill hanger was part of packaging in a set of bedsheets. Font is QK Sunshine.

and this:

Used paper and sparkly card I got from my local craft shop, flowers again from the DT goody bag and handled made using seed beads and wire. I then covered the inside of the card in a matching pink:

Will hopefully have more finished in the next couple of days.

Called about my missing order from Ellison today and was told it was despatched on 18/12 and that apparently DHL couldn't find a location for the address - a bit odd as I was getting it delivered to work and DHL are in there almost every day (so much so that our Receptionist is on first name terms with the driver). Hopefully it will turn up in the next couple of days now though - I'm really getting desperate for the stuff now (especially as it was a Christmas pressie).

Anyways gotta jet now - hope you're all having a good 2008 so far, bloggy-types.

Toodles xoxo

Sick of Winter

2008-01-09T21:25:00.000Z

Ugh spent the start of the week with my head stuck down the toilet - no joke when it's 03:00 and your're trying to yawn and puke at the same time :(

Better now though, although a bit tired tonight as it was nearly 5 when I got to sleep this morning because of the wind then back up just ater 7. Was pretty wild here last night - this street seems to turn into a wind tunnel if the wind is blowing a certain way. Oh also, I appear to have lost my wheelie bin - looked for it tonight when I got home, but couldn't see it - must've blown off into the night a la Wizard of Oz!!

Not been up to much else really - new washing machine arrived on Saturday, so that's made life a bit easier as I've been taking washing to Mum's and Stu's for the last couple of weeks.

Just going to have a chilling weekend this week - weather crappy outside and flat all cosy inside, so no contest there really. Would love to spend some time making stuff (which reminds me I need to borrow the stuff I made for Mum at Crimbo to photograph). I'd also like to spend some time on my family tree as I've really neglected it lately - there just never seem to be enough hours in the day...

... oh and of course can't forget the darts is on the telly :D:D:D:D:D

Happy New Year

2007-12-31T15:48:00.000Z

Can't believe the holidays have gone in so quickly - I've not even managed to catch up with anyone apart from family. Not sure what we're doing for Hogmanay yet - were going to stay in, then decided to go out, but now might stay in again because of the severe lack of taxis - really don't want a 45 min walk home in the peeing rain.

Hope all you bloggers had a great Christmas and that Santa was good to you. I got so many gorgeous things :D:D.

Here's wishing 2008 brings you everything you hope for!!

Toodles xoxo

Guess What Santa's Bringing??

2007-12-18T18:28:00.000Z

Me and Stu are getting a Wii from Crimbo from Santa (well from overtime really!!). Have asked SW to see if he can get me a spare controller at Schipol tomorrow - if not there may well be tears on Christmas morning (and I feel sad if Stu cries!!).

Went to see Ocean Colour Scene at the Barrowland last night - they were absolutely fantastic (although i did nearly leave home without lifting the tickets until Stu asked if I had them - a recurring event for me and not one of my best character traits)

Fizzing mad at the Post Office - paid extra money on Friday afternoon to get a package from JillyBeads sent next day - it was possible too late to guarantee delivery yesterday, but guess what - still no delivery today. If it doesn't come tomorrow in in serious trouble as I have a lot to do before Crimbo.

Still made no personal Christmas cards and really cutting it fine now, so instead of stressing I'm off out to buy a nice box tomorrow lunchtime - life's just to short to stress over minor things like that!!

Toodles for now bloggy-types - Hopefully will have some piccies later in the week.

'Tis the season to be jolly...

2007-12-13T17:58:00.000Z

tra la lala la lala la la. Finished my last batch of cards orders last night. Seriously thinking about not taking on any more now before Crimbo (apart from Mum, G and my own). Now I can spend time concentrating on my jewellery orders and playing with my Craft Fairies Design Team Kit - yippee.

Here are the final cards. It was actually an order of 5, but 2 of them were the stocking design I posted a couple of days ago.

I'm quite chuffed with this one. Papers are English Paper Co - really wish I had got a big batch of about half a dozen of the designs and not the bumper mix pack, as there are about 6 I really love and the rest I don't have a clue what to do with. Dies are Sizzix and a gorgeous Bosskut Rudolph I borrowed from the lovely Rhi last year. The diecut tree is part of I swap I received over at the Crafts by Carolyn forum.

This one uses one of the English Paper Co designs I don't really know what to do with, although I love the one with the stitched ribbon I've used on the bottom. Dies used are Sizzix and Quickutz, brad is from my stash and holly is made using Fimo in the Sculpey Kringle & Snowman mould.

This one is to be given to a little girl who has been in hosiptal for the last couple of weeks. I agreed with my customer that it might be nice to have a little bit of a Christmas theme (without being too Christmassy). Papers are yet again English Paper Co (another lot I don't really know what to do with as I find lilacs & pinks quite difficult to use for Christmas). Big tag is Sizzix, snowflakes are a mixture of a Zip-e-mate and some I received in the Crafts by Carolyn forum Christmas diecut swap; button is from my stash.

Thanks for looking xoxo

Rest of the Batch

2007-12-11T19:57:00.000Z

A bit of delay in posting these I'm afraid, but you know how it is even at normal times of the year - the days just fly by so quickly - and at Crimbo everything seems to go at 4x speed.

Anyways, here are the remainder of the 5 cards I made for a colleague:

I did try to stick to traditional for all the cards in the batch, but I struggled a bit - I've been using English Paper Co papers this year, and some of them are just a tad too traditional - not really sure what I could do with them, so this one ended up with a bit of a modern squiggle tree twist (or should that be twist tree squiggle?). Dies used are Sizzix and Cuttlebug. Tree brads were from my stash and font is Not His Angel.

Back to the traditional look for this one. I actually quite like it , even though it is verging on frumpy. Yet again English Paper Co papers, Quickutz & Sizzix dies and brad from stash.

This one is for one of those tricky beasts (aka men!!). Yet again English Paper Co papers (plus a Christmas tree one I got from my local craft shop last year). Dies Sizzix and Quickutz and fon on label is Baby Bowser.

I'm now going to start on another batch of 5 for another colleague - at this rate all my friends and family will be getting cards from the garage!!

Sorry for not posting many comments on my favourite blogs lately - I have been looking, but sometimes have been sneaking a peak at lunchtime etc from work and can't post from there.

Speak to you all soon, bloggy-types xoxo

On the Second Day of Christmas (card making)

2007-12-05T20:47:00.000Z

Yup, it's true folks, I've actually made my second Christmas card of the year (also for the guy I did the reindeer one for). Have stuck with the traditional theme for this one as well (perhaps that'll be a trend for me for the whole batch of them).

Stockings and holly are both Quickutz dies. Papers are English Paper Company and font is Courtney Dorkling. Want to get the order finished tonight, so I should have more to show tomorrow - thanks for looking.

On the home front, had the day off on Friday, so managed to get some Christmas shopping done. I also managed to get bedroom curtains - it only took me a year and a half, but got the Jeff Banks ones that match a set of my bedding (and even better - they were in the sale!). The Murder Dinner Party was a great success on Saturday night - felt slightly below the weather on Sunday though - don't know how much was alcohol-related and how much was just because I was shattered as I didn't stop all day Friday or Saturday. Got work's Christmas lunch on Friday, but I'm not going to drink at it as I have a retirement and another work's Christmas lunch the next 2 Fridays, so will wait til then, as getting my tree on Saturday, so want to be on top form and safe for driving etc for that.

Speak to you all soon, bloggy-types.

Toodles xoxo

DCM - Santa's Little Extra Helper No 7

2007-12-04T17:59:00.000Z

Well, well, well, I must have psychic tendencies as I made this card last night then read the DCM Little Extra today:

It's Tuesday again so we have a midweek challenge for you to play with. Santa's Little Helper this week is themed "Buttons and Bows"Just in case you're one of those super-efficient types who've made all the cards they need already, you can still join in with a non-Christmas card for this one.I made this for someone at work to give to his daughter and boyfriend. I've got another 4 cards to make for him, so need to get a wriggle on. Diecuts are Sizzix, Quickutz and a mistletoe one I got in a swap. Font is Chopin Script. Tree brad and gold bow were just stuff I had lying around. Papers are from the English Paper Company - hope it's not cheating to use printed buttons & ribbon.

Thanks for looking.

Toodles xoxo

Love is in the Air

2007-11-28T20:44:00.000Z

Stewart's sister and her boyfriend got engaged on holiday, so I made this card for them. I'm not going to post it as they're coming to my murder on Saturday anyway.

Paper and dark card are DCVW. Light gold card is Paper Cellar stuff I got in a mix box last year around this time. Dies used are Cuttlebug Circle Frames & Hearts. I printed the words in Missed Your Exit and chalked round the papers with a tan(ish) colour.

Tomorrow will be like Friday for me as it's my last day of work this week - in fact the way I've wangled my annual leave, last Friday was the last full Friday I'll work all year. Got to spend the day getting ready for the murder on Saturday - it seems to have gone from being weeks and weeks away to only being a couple of days away in the blink of an eye. Hopefully I'll spend some time getting organised Friday afternoon/Saturday during the day.

Thanks for looking

Toodles xoxo

Ahoy There Matey!!!

2007-11-27T19:55:00.000Z

This is a card I did for a colleague who has someone in her department retiring on Friday - really quite pleased with this one (just cos the papers are so cool).

The chap retiring is one of the Assistant Harbourmasters, so I think this one is quite apt. All the papers are English Paper Company (it's such a shame they're closing down - need more decent Brit paper manufacturers), cricle frame is a Cuttlebug one and the text is printed using Boring Showers font (another current fave of mine). I chalked the edges of the ship circle with dark blue and used a light sky blue round the edges of the papers.

This is a necklace and simple earrings I made for a lady in our neighbourhood (actually, do we have neighbourhoods in Scotland or am I [SHOCK HORROR!!!] turning all Americanified?). I used 4mm & 6mm Swarovski bicone crystals in Clear & Jet. A 40mm Teardrop Pendant in Clear. Home-made pendant-bail-type-thingy is made using sterling silver wire and bicone beads. Toggle clasp is also sterling silver.

Thanks for looking. I'll be back with more things soon.

Toodles xoxo

Card Backlog

2007-11-27T19:03:00.000Z

It's been a long long time since I've blogged craft stuff, so I've got a few things to show. Alos got some stuff I did at the tail end of last week, so I'll post that too in a bit.

These are the thank-you cards I did for Stewart and I to give to family and friends for the engagement presents we were given. I used pearlescant card in pale pistachio and bramble (not official colours - I just made em up!). The square background and frame are Cuttlebug as is the flower. I printed the "Thank You" using Baby Bowser font.

Some of you will already know I'm not much of a stamper, but I bought this one off someone on the Crafts by Carolyn forum last year (or perhaps the year before), so thought I'd better try it out. I stamped the image in black then painted a tiny bit of it with the mucho cheapo Twinkling H2O-type paints from The Works. I then chalked around the stamped image and mounted it on pearlescent black card. Again the text is printed using Baby Bowser font (loving this one atm).

This is the card I made for Mum's birthday (way back in September). I didn't have time to scan it when I made it (last-minute Lisa strikes again) but saw it in her house one time, so reclaimed it. The flower in the top corner sticks out from the top of the card, and if I was making one again I'd put it in a bigger envelope. Papers are Making Memories - Kate (really pretty papers) and the flowers are made using all 4 of the Bosskut Create-a-Flower dies in Wildflower. Lettering was done on cardstock in WordArt then hand cut.

Will be back soon with more - hope you can manage to stay awake, bloggy-types.

Toodles xoxo

LAX!!!

2007-11-26T18:29:00.000Z

Nope, not the Californian airport, but me!!! It really doesn't seem like 2 weeks since I last blogged. Still not quite over the stomach bug I had when I came back from hols - now been to docs twice in 3 weeks (usually I'm only there twice a year for routine stuff). Anyways hopefully it's on the turn now (I'm not ill or anything now, just a little below par and sporadic stomach upsets etc).

Anyways, onto the happy stuff now. Had a lovely chilling weekend with Stu (well apart from me working on Saturday), watched the darts & movies. Finally saw the new Vinnie Jones one they gave away with one of the Sunday papers - was actually really good.

I now no longer have to work a full Friday for the rest of the year, as I'm away in the afternoons for xmas lunch on 2 of them and on annual leave days the other 3 - so happy cos I love being off on a Friday (even though it's a shorter day/longer lunch break etc).

Got my first DT kit from Craft Fairies and it's well gorgeous. Can't wait to get stuck in about it :D:D

Toodles for now xoxo

Weekend Catch-up

2007-11-12T18:51:00.000Z

Had a pretty chilling weekend this week, which is just what I needed. Did the weekly shop on Friday for a change (I didn't like it as much as doing it on Sat mornings) and got 3 nice bottles of wine from Asda. Stu made dinner and we watched Shawn of the Dead, which was quite good.

On Sat J came round for lunch. I made crab cakes from a James Martine recipe, but to be honest next time I would use a different recipe as I felt they were too mushy (hence no photo) - they tasted ok though.

Sat night Stu made a lovely chicken dopiaza and rice using the red saffron we brought back from Egypt. Watched the remake of the Omen, which was pretty good for a remake, but still not as good as the original and little Damian wasn't half as cute.

On Sunday we went to visit Stu's grandparents - was nice to finally meet them. His uncle and little cousins were there too, so it was a bit of a houseful. Commandeered a wee shot of his cousin's Nintendo DS which was well fun. Stu made dinner again on Sunday night. Garlic mushrooms then pork chops with nice seasoning and mash followed by rhubarb crumble and custard - was well yummy, but I've had to be good today.

Got a couple of cards to make for Mum tonight and I need to dig out some beads as I have a necklace to make for someone too - need to give her a call tomorrow afternoon to find out exactly what she would like.

Will be back soon with the next installment of the Egypt trip.

Toodles xoxo

Four Things

2007-11-10T11:48:00.000Z

I've been tagged by the lovely Rhi, so here's 4 things you may or may not already know about me:

4 Jobs I've had

I worked for an open cast coal company as admin/weighbridge operator

I ran a small office

Worked in a pub part-time

Secretary

4 Places I have visited

Egypt

Ibiza

Cyprus

Greece

4 Places I have lived

'fraid I've always lived in Falkirk, although I have lived in exactly 4 different houses

4 Favourite foods

Cherries

Venison

Duck

Percy Pigs

4 Places I would rather be

Lying on the beach

Seville (top of my wish list)

In a land where I have a cleaning fairy

In a hot bath

Bet the excitement of my lifes far has blown you all away!!!!

Toodles xoxo

Egypt - Day 2 - Friday

2007-11-08T18:17:00.000Z

Edfu & Kom Ombo

After visiting the West Bank on Thursday, we then set sail for Edfu. Edfu Temple is dedicated to Horus (the falcon-headed god) and is one of my favourite temples.

After leaving Edfu we set sail straight away for Kom Ombo, which is quite a small temple, but very interesting as it has the first medical references and mummified crocodiles!!!

Then it was time to set sail for Aswan. Took until late evening to get there. Friday night was an Egyptian-themed night, so me and Stu were in full costume when he proposed - all very romantic under the moonlight :D so I thought I'd add a nice photo of an Egyptian sunset.

More to come soon - hope I'm not boring all you bloggy-types.

Toodles xoxo

The Ring

2007-11-06T17:53:00.000Z

Well we finally managed to go ring shopping on Saturday, and both Stewart and I managed to get rings we absolutely love (although Stu's won't be here til Friday as it was too big).

This is mine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The photo doesn't do it justice - it's absolutely gorgeous - white gold with 6 diamonds and a perfect style for me.

I'm over the moon!!!!!!!!!!!

Egypt Trip - Day One

2007-10-31T19:16:00.000Z

Collosei of Memnon, Valley of the Kings and Deir el-Bahri

The trip down from Edinburgh to Gatwick and then Gatwick to Luxor went smoothly and we arrived a bit earlier than scheduled. OMG Luxor Airport had changed a lot since my last visit - it now has a terminal and everything!!

Early start the first morning and a pretty full day. Started off with a quick visit to the Collosei of Memnon. These are 2 huge statues which have each been carved from one piece of stone. We didn't get long at them - about 20 mins or so as there is nothing else there apart from the 2 statues - we had a walk around them and took plenty of photos.

After that stop it was off to the Valley of the Kings. We visited 3 tombs; the first one was Tutmoses III, which had a LOT of steps - glad we did it first (see photo to right). After that we went to Ramses III (I think - neither Stewart nor I can quite remember), finishing off in Ramses IV. The only downside of the visit was that no photography is permitted inside the tombs, although we did buy a really nice set of photos. After the Valley of the Kings we went to an alabastor factory, but tbh it all seemed a bit false and most of the stuff they had for sale wasn't hand-made.

Then we moved onto Queen Hatshepsut's Temple at Deir el-Bahri and boy, was it getting warm by then. The temple was very different to the others we would be visiting on our trip, but very impressive. Another hefty step climb (we could certainly feel our legs for the next few days - even Stu who walks to work every day). The veiw from the top tier was fantastic and some of the statues and wall carvings were really lovely.

After the temple it was back to the boat for lunch then a free afternoon as we set sail for Edfu. Sunset is pretty early this time of year so we only managed about an hour and a half of relaxing in the sun in the afternoon. I've put a photo of some of the statues in Hetshepsut's Temple below:

I'm Back!!!!!

2007-10-29T11:41:00.000Z

Yup, back from holidays with an extremely dodgy tummy (hence why I'm writing this during the day cos off work) and lots of good news.

Holiday was amazing. Visited lots of places and took loads of photos (well I took about 100 before my camera packed in, but Stewart took about 400 so I can share his). I'll post a day-by-day breakdown with photos when I'm feeling a bit better (luckily didn't start to feel ill until about 6 hrs after we landed at Gatwick so was only suffering on the flight back to Edinburgh, which only took 45 mins), as I don't want to post just a mishmash.

Good news time now - me and Stewart got engaged!!!!! Really happy and excited about it, although it's quite a lot to take in. We were going to go ring shopping at the weekend, but we've had to postpone it until next weekend, because of my dodgy tummy. We haven't set a date or anything yet - just going to chill until after crimbo then Stu will sell his flat and we'll start making plans then.

Also when I got home I discovered I had made it onto the Craft Fairies Design Team - my first ever DT, so all very exciting (and just a bit scary!!). Really looking forward to working with Lisa and the rest of the team to see what we all come up with :D:D

Ocean Colour Scene tix arrived when I was away as well - finally make up for not being able to get into the tent the last 2 times I've been at T in the Park.

...and finally I was thrilled to get this award from both Lynne and Rhi. I'd like to pass it on to Fee, Miss JP and Stu, who all make me smile every day.

See you all soon with holiday photos and stuff

Toodles xoxo

Beginning to return...

2007-10-11T17:28:00.000Z

... to normal (or what passes as normal here!!) Mum got out of hospital today, and she's making good progress. G off work today and tomorrow to look after her, then I'll look after her at the weekend.

Ocean Colour Scene tix went on sale today - hope they have some left on Monday cos I'm too skint to get them until then :S

Not really got much else to report - have made nothing this past week, as I've been coming home from work, putting dishwasher/washing on then dashing out to the hosp.

Bedlam on the roads around here today apparently, as a lorry carrying chickens crashed at Haggs/Castlecary - chickens running around everywhere - I wonder if they'll ever head east and run into the recently elusive Mr Chicken on the road to the bridges (although I fear Mr Chicken may now be resting in someone's tummy.

On major countdown to the hols now. Only 3 working days to go!!!! Struggling to get someone to come back for us (cos we land at 08:00 on a working day) so booked a driver this morning - will probably work out cheaper than paying the extortionate Edinburgh Airport parking prices.

See you all soon bloggy-types xoxo

Card

2007-10-03T06:39:00.000Z

The word at HS:MS for yesterday was...

Card
A Piece of thick, stiff paper. Find 'card' in your space today.

I did this card for a colleague to give to a little girl who has a brithday around Halloween (I actually did 2 the same with different names, as she wanted them for 2 girls who live 100s of miles apart).

Actually struggled with it a bit, as I felt everything just looked a bit plonked on, but the buyer really liked them and said the kids will love them.

Also got a card done for Fee and Lee but don't want to post it here until I've posted it through her door.

Only 2 weeks til the hols now - think I've got everything sorted apart from insurance and a pair of black trousers (and still plenty of time to sort those out).

Mum goes into hospital for her first knee replacement op - hope her recovery is ok, as her good knee is worse than her bad one atm - with any luck she'll get her other one done just after Christmas.

That's my update for today - must dash and put new tax disc on car as I've had it for a couple of weeks but keep forgetting to put it on!!!

Toodles xoxo

Congratulations...

2007-09-29T12:42:00.001Z

... Fee and Lee, on getting engaged last night. Thrilled to bits when I heard the news - so was Stu. See you soon for a wee celebration!!!!!!!

xoxo

First...

2007-09-27T18:26:00.000Z

... card for a while from me - it's not that I've been lazy - just making them so tight to the deadlines that I haven't had time to do a scan of them.

Made this one for Stewart's mum - it's actually her birthday tomorrow, but they're going to France so we're going to drop pressies round tonight.

I used Blonde Moments Sugar Dumpling papers, and glitter card. Flowers cut using Bosskuts dies and text is QK Sunshine.

Got my last 2 jabs for Egypt today and I promised the nurse I would deffo go for a Hep A booster next year, cos then I will be covered for Hep A for the next 20 years and no blood test to see if I'm immune needed - added bonus because of my needle phobia and crap veins.

Watching Stu's mum & dad's doggy this weekend whilst they're in France. Will take some jewellery stuff over with me though - might even take my Cuttlebug and dies.

Have a lovely weekend bloggy peeps.

Toodles xoxo

HS:MS - Jug

2007-09-26T16:45:00.000Z

The HS:MS word for today is:

Jug

A container from which eases the pouring of liquid. Show us your jugs! A-hem.

I got this a couple of years ago when my Dad's aunt & uncle moved into a home. It's been shoved at the back of a cupboard ever since, as I thought it was a bit hideous. Who knows - perhaps I'll keep it out for a couple of days and see if it grows on me (seriously doubt it though!!)

Sponge

2007-09-25T17:43:00.000Z

Over at HS:MS the word for today was:

Sponge

A natural (often man made!) material to soak up liquids. Show us a sponge in your space.

4 Weeks...

2007-09-19T18:12:00.000Z

...today I'll be on the Nile - really really can't wait.

Been a long day at work today - started at 7 and didn't get finished til 6, so going to have some dinner and a nice long bath.

Have a couple of cards to make tonight for someone at work - both halloween themed ones, as the little girls they are for both have birthdays around about the spooky day!

All my plans for last weekend went completely tits up, as poor Stu got sent home from work on Friday with a stomach bug and has only started to feel better today, so no meal, wedding or lunch for us - we're going for dinner this Friday instead :D and lunch on Sun.

Was off work on Monday, but spent the day in the house keeping S company (my good deed for the year). Managed to make loads of fimo stuff for card toppers and got a few die cuts done too :D.

Also been spending some time making my Swarovski Christmas spiders - just in case I'm lucky enought to get a rush on them.

Toodles for now, bloggy-types. I'll be back later in the week with stuff xoxo

Wo-o-o it's magic...

2007-09-12T20:20:00.000Z

...or not as the case may be. Tried to sign up for the magic course starting at college next Monday night, but it was fully booked - I was so gutted - had visions of me wowing all my friends, family and colleagues with my fantastic new magical skills - hope they run it again in the next session - I'll be bashing down the door to get into it.

Was the lovely Stewart's birthday yesterday - all the 3s 33 - hahaha nearly as old as me. Lucky monkey was off work yesterday so I think he just chilled and watched dvds. Came up to mine a night for more pressies and a Chinese for tea. Taking him to a local restaurant, La Picardie, which specialises in rustic French food (and has the added bonus of being a 5 minute walk away!!!) Not been before, but G & A have and liked it, so looking forward to trying it out.

Got to get my Typhoid jab for Egypt tomorrow - looking forward to it like a hole in the head as I have a bit of a needle phobia - I've had it twice before, so know it doesn't hurt anywhere like it used to, but last time I nearly fainted going from the chemist to the docs with my prescription. Thing is, there are a lot of junkies living round about my docs so all I could thing was "please don't let me pass out in the street in the middle of the afternoon" (rofl especially carrying an injection syringe & needle thingy). Got to pick Mum up from the airport after work tomorrow too - hopefully she had a good time :D:D.

Tha's all for today - need to get caught up on various challenges, but this week seems to have run away with me (again!!)

Toodles xoxo

p.s. Might have a bit of Stu's toffee cake with a cuppa before bed, cos last night they all had a bit of the chocolate one, but I don't like chocolate cake!

HS:MS - Feast

2007-09-06T21:22:00.000Z

Over at HS:MS the word for today was:

Feast
A large meal or a plentiful supply, show us 'feast' in your space today.

G gave me these for going round to let Charley out at lunchtimes when mum was on hols and she was at work. Was a pleasure actually cos Charley's gorgeous and she's so well behaved.

Anyways she happened to have a pack of M&S Jelly Belly Beans lying around for her frien'd birthday and I mentioned how much I loved Jelly Bellies and didn't know that M&S did them, so tada now I have some. Don't like the liquorice ones though - ugh.

Looks like a certain Mr Percy Pig may have competition for a space in my tummy now!!!

HS:MS - Hold

2007-09-05T19:41:00.000Z

I've missed a couple of the HS:MS challenges, but was back for today's

Hold
To grasp, carry or support with your hands. Find 'hold' in your space.

Had the idea to do a sort of Madonna-esque shot, but it didn't really work, so I added a rough pastel filter in Photoshop - not sure about the result - suppose of I look at it with my eyes half shut it could look a bit album cover-ish.

Wild Wednesday!!!!

2007-09-05T18:40:00.000Z

Thought I'd add an exciting title to my life today, not that anything much has been happening.

Stewart's still away with the band recording and I miss him cos he makes me laugh so much and keeps me company.

Managed to fill a black bag of stuff from the spare room - need to get rid of odds & sods still lying around, but I reckon I'll get so sick of looking at them that I won't need to decide what to do with them - they'll prob just go in the bin.

Have decided as of tomorrow to try to train myself not to be faff around so much - no wonder I never seem to get anything made anymore, because it seems to be bedtime every night before I even realise it. Don't know where to begin, so any tips gladly received.

Have to make a card for J tonight, as it's her birthday on Friday. Did one for G to give her last night - did my fave at the moment which is a big hand cut Japanese doll on A4 folded in half card. There is a 2cm border of cream card round it, but I sort of screwed up the scan.

Going to the first Scottish Bead Fair with N on Sunday - really looking forward to it, although as per usual at these things, it seems to be happening when I'm completely skint (or maybe I'm just always skint!!).

S's birthday on Tuesday so going to make him a nice theme cake (he reads this blog, but don't have to worry about putting any ideas here, cos I don't have any :P:P:P:P:P)

Toodles for a bit xoxo

Ugh, nose back to the grindstone

2007-09-02T19:04:00.000Z

Yup, as of tomorrow I'm back at work. I've really enjoyed my week off (although not done my diet for going on holiday any good). Went for lunch on Wednesday with S to Orroco Pier. I had sea bass with sweet potato & chorizo - it was absolutely gorgeous.

Thursday I had a team building day at work (meant I only had to take 4 days off if I went to this). Wasn't really looking forward to the outdoorsy bit in the morning, but I had a fantastic time, although one of my elbows still hurts like hell.

Friday just did shopping-type stuff. Got my Christmas camera from S - lucky he let me look at it again when I got home before hiding it away cos the shop gave us the wrong one (but charged us for the one I wanted which was more expensive), so had to take it back. S made dinner on Friday night - I got some Champagne and a nice bottle of red as a treat as he's away on holiday up north with his band (recording new stuff) from yesterday until next Sat (so I'll be all lonely cos Mum's on holiday too and B is off to Turkey).

Started tidying the spare room today - seems like no time at all since I last gutted it and had it all nice - don't know how on earth I manage to accumulate so much stuff in such a short time!!!

Nothing else to report I'm afraid.

Toodles xoxo

HS:MS - Dish & Chew

2007-09-02T14:37:00.001Z

I'm a bit late with these 2, but the words for Thursday and Friday were:

Dish
A shallow bowl or radio antenna. Find 'dish' in your space.

This is a dish I have in the dining room - I keep a maraca, which my Dad pinched from a bar in Spain before I was born, in it.

and

Chew
To bite and grind with the teeth. Find 'chew' in your space today.

This is a pic of a choo choo (or chew chew) train I took on Wednesday. Ok I cheated, but it was that or my ugly mouth eating a biscuit ;)

HS:MS - Cloud

2007-08-29T18:01:00.000Z

The challenge for today at HS:MS was cloud

Cloud
A mass of water vapour. Show us 'cloud' in your space today.

I really struggled with this one, as the sky today when I was out was a total mass of one big humungous cloud, so I used one I took a couple of years ago in Santa Eulalia, Ibiza and made it into black & white in photoshop.

Week Off/Wee Cough

2007-08-29T07:46:00.000Z

Off on annual leave this week, so not been around much to update. Still got my cough too, but it's definitely on the mend.

F & L came round Saturday night and we had a really nice time. Ordered new furniture for bedroom on Sunday, so it comes in a couple of weeks. Monday took Mum to Edinburgh to look for tiles, then to the Gyle (Mum hates driving in Edinburgh). Not sure what I'm up to today - want to go to the zoo one day, but thinking of doing that Friday. Looks like today is going to be nice though, so will do something.

Made some cards last night, but not got access to a scanner at home (I normally use the one in my office), so will try to take some photos instead...

...talking of photos, I'm getting right into this photography lark - really been enjoying the HS:MS challenges. Wish I had a better camera though (think S is going to get me one for crimbo). Saw one I really liked that wasn't too big, but still had 8 mega pixels and a 3x optical zoom - mine atm only has a digital zoom, which isn't as good.

Will be back later to post my pic for the day.

toodles