CURLS AND GIRLS

first scrap booking in 6 months....

2010-03-09T18:21:00.006+13:00

These are all done with the beautiful Sugar Rush Collection, from Basic Grey.

You can find this product at The Scrapbook Outlet.

Kate

A story..

2010-02-21T13:27:00.004+13:00

I want to tell a story... I am not a particularly talented writer but this is what I want to write..

She pulls herself up over the dusty rocky edge of the crevice. She drags her abdomen over the edge, exhausted and spent from her time traversing the lonely territory of the dark. As she pulls herself free, the only position that seems appropriate is foetal. Curled up, sobbing and afraid of where she will find herself when she dares to look, she lets the torrent of emotions drench her.
"How did those cracks escalate into such a huge dark space?" she wonders as her wrenching sobs subside.. "How did I get down there, why did no one come and rescue me as I wandered alone and lost in the darkness?"

She opens her eyes, it is lighter here, but not light. It certainly isn't the blackness she has just emerged from. One thing she does know is that she is very much alone and not in the same place she set out from. Where are the people she loves/loved?

Wanting to, but not able to stay curled up tightly refusing to face reality, she uncurls slowly and begins the next step of the journey. Finding bearings, discovering where she is and making decisions about where to go next.

Looking back across the great ravine, she sees what she almost certainly knew in her heart already. That he has not made this journey with her. She is indeed all alone. She can see him, but not hear him or him her. She is not entirely sure that he can see her. Why and how did she end up making this journey on her own...?

She realises she has been here before, in this very spot looking back across this ravine. But the previous times it has only been a small crevice, in fact the first time it was only a crack in the earth that she could leap back over with some risk but not with too much effort.

In the past, she remembers, there had also been a bridge, rickety with use of many return journeys, but passable. This time as she scans the edge of the cliff the bridge is impassable, stretched so cruelly by the increasing distance that has been created.. by what?? She sees him run to the spot where the bridge used to reach on that side of the ravine, and can almost see the grief as he realises what has happened. That the distance is so far now and he has not taken the same path as her. The realisation that he has no choice but to also plunge into that dark ravine and travel it alone.

For her the realisation hits slowly, the impact almost physical, causing her already spent self to crumple, there is no way back this time. Not for her.

This time the journey was so dark, so painful, so physically exhausting and lonely that there is no way back. Would she risk returning into that dark ravine, would he meet her down there, would he come and get her? Does she even want him too? She could not sit and wait, not after coming this far, communication would be too difficult from this distance, he could not see her, or hear her.

As she turned away from the deep ravine completely lost, unable to understand how she really got there, she became aware that she was actually in the foot hills of a huge mountain. Rugged and rough terrain, steep but with a worn path trampled by many who had taken this path before her. As the path rose up the side of the mountain it disappeared and there was no way of knowing what was beyond, but something stirred inside her and she knew it was the right path for her to take.

So there was a choice, descend back into the valley, dark and cold and lonely or take this new path, worn and steep but ascending into light and used by others.

Who knew what would be over that crest of the mountain, but it seemed the only way. Looking back she wondered what he would decide to do. Maybe he would choose this path also. Maybe he would catch up, maybe he wouldn't survive the descent into the valley. But she was very aware that this was a decision she had to make on her own.

So she did, she set off up a well travelled path, albeit unknown to her, afraid but hopeful of returning to some semblance of light and life. Who she would meet on this path would not only surprise her but delight her, some people cruel and judging others truly depicting the beauty in the heartache, helping her and teaching her of her value and worth as a person.

She is still travelling the mountain path, she has stumbled, fallen, and resumed the foetal position on many an occasion, she is thankful to those who gently took her hand and helped her to continue the path, they know who they are, and those who passed by leaving her to grieve, they have their very good reasons.

The path has changed and forked and led in a direction she never could have imagined and it has caused her to grow in a way she never could have hoped for. Still, she does not know where the path will lead, but she is attempting to travel it with integrity, joy and hope and allowing herself to put herself a little less last!

Here's to the journey, it's been rocky at times but lets make each day an adventure.

Oh by the way, if anyone actually reads this blog, I am scrap booking again. I am glad to be finding some creativity again.

My very special friend said... Kate it is good to have "you" back. Thanks to those who have been so incredibly "there" for me. I think I am almost back! Not so much changed as more myself than I have been for a very long time.

Kate
xxx

Building Bridges

2009-11-04T16:52:00.004+13:00

I have been on annual leave for most of October. I have spent some of that time seeing people I haven't seen in a while and catching up with family, old friends and new.

It has been a time of repairing and building bridges, re connecting with friends. I think I have done enough now, it is time to stop feeling like I have to explain, to stop feeling like it is my responsibility to help people understand, it is time to stop worrying about what others think of me. It is time for me to heal and move on. I am ready.
It is time to create a new life and to spend time re newing old friendships and creating new ones without fear of disapproval.

Christmas is coming and I am wholly unprepared. I love Christmas though I'm not sure what Christmas will look like for our family this year. However I still want to enjoy the build up.

Part of that is the SBO xmas competition on at the moment. Guest designers are setting the challenges and it is proving to be a great way to get into the Xmas spirit. Go check it out here

I have done a couple of lay outs with the beautiful Prima Specialty Papers. Gorgeous.

Again I quote Dr Seuss cos he rocks!!!

"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”

Kate.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl...

2009-10-17T12:45:00.004+13:00

My youngest turns 7 tomorrow.

For some reason this seems significant. No longer a baby.

Today we had a little party for her.

Gorgeous Hawkes Bay day and friends to play.

Happy Birthday my Darling!!!

Also I did this lay out for SBO using the Bo Bunny range of papers.

Photo taken at the beautiful Ohope beach!!

Cheers

Kate

SOMETIMES..

2009-10-01T09:57:00.007+13:00

Sometimes life does not go the way we imagined or dreamed. This happens for a myriad of reasons not always clear to us and certainly not to those on the outside looking in. It has happened to me, and to my family. We are in recovery mode. All at different stages. We have been in this mode before, sadly, for a wholly different reason, so we know the drill. Time and baby steps.

I have been absent, in many ways over the past few months but also over the past few years.

Lost for many years. Life however is not about finding oneself but about creating oneself and it is time to accept what has been created and know within myself that I am OK. And that I can be better!! It is never too late to re create!!

I am on my way back. Living is not easy right now but there are lots of little joys and happiness along this difficult journey. People and other little mercies have popped up around me and given me hope and the strength to move on in my own time.

SO what has happened that is good?

Lili sat her first ballet exam. So cute.

Brylee sat her first major RAD ballet exam. I am very proud.

My dear friend organised a dance class for just her and me. It was magical and fun and one of the best things I have done in many years. I think the body has a memory, I cannot fully express the joy I feel when I dance. I know it's not so pretty to look at anymore but wow it was incredible. The best birthday present ever!!

My beautiful eldest daughter went to her high school ball...

I have started scrap booking again. My creativity is still to get into full swing but I am putting glue to paper again and it is good. Significant I think!

Here are some lay outs I have done for SBO.

Two using the Cosmo Cricket Earth Love papers , found here, and the other a sample for the competition over at SBO right now.

Cosmo Cricket Earth love,

Sample for SBO competition, using Collage Press, Sweet Shop

another using Cosmo Cricket, Earth Love.

Through all of this I have had support from sources I never thought likely, new friendships have been forged and possibilities have opened up. I would like to say thanks to those who have been my strength and support, it has been invaluable and truly appreciated.
Most of whom probably don't read this blog but it is important to acknowledge these amazing friends.

Ok well that is me,

Dr Suess is probably the best person to quote right now....

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”

On that note I shall say Au revoir cos I'm feeling a little parisienne right now. If there is such a thing!! :)

July at SBO.

2009-07-27T16:03:00.004+12:00

Hey, she lives...

Here are a couple of projects I have created using the Collage Press Sweet Shop papers from SBO.
You can see them here

They are beautiful and great quality papers... so great to work with.

I tried my hand at altering this little box... yet to put any thing in it but was fun to give it a try.

And a layout, using the sketch provided by Ruth.

My challenge was to scrap yourself, and I used the beautiful Prima papers. Sadly when I up load it it appears sideways and that is not a good look. So go to SBO to see it if you are interested at all. It's in my gallery.

Sadly our months worth of band width was used up by 10th of July, so the computer is going snail pace making links nigh near impossible. Maybe next time. Ahh teens, you gotta love 'em.

I've also been doing a bit of knitting.. cool I know. I have finished a pair of socks and onto another... photos to follow when I can stand waiting for the computer to up load.

So get those layouts in for the challenges... and I think there may be a challenge coming up soon with a great prize. Keep a look out for that.

Love

Kate

Happy birthday Brittany...

2009-07-04T08:35:00.012+12:00

Happy birthday to our first born..

They didn't have you where I come from

Never knew the best was yet to come

Life began when I saw your face

And I hear your laugh like a serenade

How long do you want to be loved

Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

I slip in bed when you're asleep
To hold you close and feel your breath on me
Tomorrow there'll be so much to do
So tonight I'll drift in a dream with you

How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

As you wander through this troubled world
In search of all things beautiful
You can close your eyes when you're miles away
And hear my voice like a serenade

How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

Dixie Chicks.

Love you, so proud of you. Happy 17th. x x x

Two weekends ago..

2009-06-29T20:32:00.004+12:00

I had a fabulous time in Ohope with some fantastic women.

We went to scrap book but we did so much more. Barb, a dear friend and I were there first so spent the Friday afternoon and most of the night talking, relaxing and laughing harder and for longer than I have in a long long time. We also DANCED... yep, I put the music on and started to boogie and two hours later we were hot, sweaty and hysterical with laughter at our very dodgy dance moves.

Anyway, thanks to Rachel, and Tarisota, I helped some of the ladies to create a little mini album inspired by Rachel Tuckers album she made for Tarisota this month.

Here are some of the creations...

Gorgeous!!!

So a very therapeutic weekend and was just what I needed with all that's going on in my life. The weather was amazing and I had a great run along the beach and a walk in the evening watching the sun go down.

Go to SBO and look at what the design team has been creating this month.

Here are a few sneak peeks of my layouts...

So go here for a look..

I had the pleasure of working with K & Company Madeline papers by Brenda Walton. Just gorgeous. Look here to see the product.

So that's what I've been up to. Got two more birthdays coming up. Brittany turns 17 on Saturday and Merlin turns 40 at the end of July. Looking forward to a huge party in Auckland, gonna dance all night!!!

Speaking of dancing.. watch this space cos this 40 going on 25 year old is going back to ballet classes. Sometimes you just gotta do something badly and just enjoy it. So that's my plan for next term.

Take care

Kate

Thursday Challenge at SBO

2009-06-13T21:31:00.003+12:00

Hi,

it was my turn to post a challenge on the forum at SBO.

my challenge is for you to choose a person from your family. Ask them to choose the product for your lay out and the photo. The photo they choose must be of them.

Brylee was the only one in my family to co operate, and she chose some great product just not much of it.

Here is my layout...

It's pretty basic, also not great light to photograph it but it is a fun challenge not to be taken too seriously.

So join in at SBO and have a giggle.

Other than that I am busy having a mid life crisis. Dunno how long it will take to pass. Forty was easy, it seems 41 not so!!

Laters

Kate

Make a scene.

2009-06-03T16:40:00.005+12:00

Yeah go on, make a scene. That's the challenge over at Scrap the Girls this month. I really struggled with this challenge but finally stuck something down and e mailed it off. Here it is...

It is a garden scene. The flowers are hand stitched stems with sequin flowers. I think we need a close up.
Any way, a bit out of my comfort zone but that's all good.

There is also a challenge over at SBO. You need to create a layout with 5 elements, each one chosen by one of the new design team members.

Elements Challenge

Raewyn: something circular (patterned paper, photo's, chipboard, brads or buttons etc)

Lesley: ink or paint

Kate: fabric

Lainie: use tearing BUT it can't be an edge

Ruth: stamping on flowers

Here's my go at it using the gorgeous Basic Grey Wisteria collection.

Well off to start cooking the birthday tea. Mikky has some girlfriends over for dinner, and she will open her presents, have cake etc. I cheated and bought a cake, first time ever. Kind of feel bad about that.

See ya.

Kate

16 years ago today

2009-06-02T22:29:00.008+12:00

At about lunch time this gorgeous bundle of chubby red headedness came into our lives. Still shell shocked from the birth of our first daughter 11 months almost to the day earlier we welcomed her tiredly but with no less joy than our first.

What a joy of a child she has been, easy going and loving and intelligent, not to mention funny and cute. Growing from a chubby bespectacled little girl into a beautiful young woman.

Where has the time flown too, we all cry as our children grow up and surpass us in cleverness, talent and beauty ( as they should). It's an ache and a joy as we try to hold on, knowing it is actually time to let go and let them begin to make their way in this world.It has been so much fun, I have loved almost every minute of it. Would I change anything?? For sure, I would change ME but actually that seems to have been your first task in this world and I thank you for it.

Happy Birthday Mikayla Grace. We are so proud of you! We adore and love you more than you will ever know.

All my love xxx

My new challenge for 2009

2009-06-01T18:27:00.003+12:00

It's been announced tonight. Exciting news. I am joining 4 other talented scrap bookers as part of the new Scrapbook Outlet design team.

The annnouncement has gone up with some of our layouts and a bit of a profile.

I was sent a Basic Grey collection, Wisteria, to create some lay outs and here they are...

( You really need to listen to the Edge radio station to get this one.)

I am pretty stoked to be on this design team and looking forward to working with Lesley Cooper (returning for another term), Raewyn Aldridge( another Hawkes Bay lady), Lainie Takawe and Ruth Ross.

A challenge is going up on the SBO forum to celebrate the new design team appointment.

So exciting times. Looking forward to a new challenge. Great to be working with a great team.

Keep you posted. Feel free to shoot over to SBO to have a nosey.

Kate x x x

Some peeks...

2009-06-01T11:05:00.003+12:00

Who likes peeking??

More soon.

Plus some pics of the socks I am knitting. One is finished just needs stitching up.

First day of winter today and boy has it made itself kown. Snow in Hastings and Havelock North yesterday... I didn't see it but I know it snowed in lots of unusual places and it was cold enough.

We celebrate Mikayla's 16th birthday this month. SO will probably be pics of her too.

Keep warm everyone.

Kate

Step class, staying up all night and a layout.

2009-05-18T17:55:00.005+12:00

I've been walking, and then it needed to be running also known as jogging so when I went past the local gym I decided maybe just maybe I should set foot in there and check out the classes... not called aerobics any more folks.

Well I ended up doing a step class... everything is franchised Les Mills styles and it was fun. I forget my age and was a little over zealous... also no one told me you could lower the step and the next day and the next I was very sore!!! I think I will go back because it was fun and took brains and co ordination and I like that. Sometimes walking and running can be so boring!!!

Seems the night shifts are killing me slowly but I feel I am dying quicker than if I wasn't doing them. I have cut down, now that's great, but one week a fortnight I do three and I just don't seem to be able to get my head around that. This is a three week and I find myself thinking of ways I can get out of doing the third shift...

Enough moaning already.. right here is a layout I actually did at Autumn escape, not for the creative team stuff. Hope you like it.

My dear friend Leanne ( a very talented scrap booker I might add) took this shot of Lili at the lake. Thanks Leanne.

Well I wish I had something very exciting and clever to say but I don't so... see ya.

Kate

Oh wow

2009-05-15T22:06:00.003+12:00

look here if you want and take a look. I was so excited. So nice of them to put this up.

Kate xxx

I love you Mum

2009-05-10T15:17:00.010+12:00

Happy Mothers Day!!

Thanks for being a great Mum.

I want to thank you for my wonderful childhood.

Thanks for being brave and adventurous and bringing us to New Zealand.

For the wonderful days living in paradise...

Days on the beach, wonderful camping holidays in Hahei, Waipu and Waiwera.

Fabulous rural living, animals and space.

The best Christmas and Easter egg hunts ever!!!

For all the creativity you had, sewing, art, crafts, gardening, and the love of these things you instilled in me.

For hours spent making my ballet costumes..

And of course always being there through my own journey of motherhood.

These are just a few special memories of my childhood. Thanks so much for being a great mother to me and Andy and Jo.

All my love and respect

your daughter

Kate

But wait there's more...

2009-05-05T08:04:00.005+12:00

Here are a few more layouts done for Autumn Escape.

This was actually a little door hanging for Lili.

A little Kaiser tag album... well the front page any way.

We were provided with some Cosmo Cricket Lil Man papers. Rachel did an amazing girls lay out with boy papers so that left me with the daunting task of doing some boy lay outs. So here they are.

I love my gorgeous nephews. Hope my sis likes these cos they will be winging their way to her.

So that was about it. I had one more that I finished at the retreat. Haven't photographed that yet. Plus a few that I actually did at AE. Will post those another day.

Here is the photo of our table of girls at retreat.

These are the best ladies ever. We had such a laugh. Thanks girls for making it such a highlight for me.

We've just had a great class at Hastings Rubber Stamps. Hopefully some of the girls from class will be at Autumn Escape next year. I know I will be.

Good night.

Kate x x x

Back Home

2009-05-04T07:51:00.003+12:00

What a fabulous time at the Autumn Retreat. If you didn't go, make it a priority for next year. Start saving. No bunks, no shared showers, beautiful food, drinks at the bar, lots of give aways and great shopping. Start saving!!!!!

Above all, well organised and fantastic hostesses!!! Thanks so much Nic and Lucy.... it met all our expectations and more!!!

SO ... here are a couple of the layouts I did to display at the Autumn Escape I think I'll just put a few up at a time coz I did a while lot. Ok in no particular order...

Pink Paislee

Basic Grey "Off Beat"

Cosmo Cricket.

Oh and Ruth, I stamped the butterfly onto acetate and cut it out. I borrowed that stamp, wish I owned it.

Hope to have some photos of Autumn retreat soonish.

Kate

More peeks

2009-04-30T18:16:00.005+12:00

Here are a few more projects I have been working on for Autumn Escape. Rachel and I are leaving early tomorrow and will be found wandering the shops and cafes of Taupo before checking into the resort for an O for Orsome weekend!!!

Here's a layout I made with a few Prima goodies...

Oh that's little, never mind... it's not the best photo of the layout actually but my camera batteries went dead and some charmer had "borrowed the other set" Hmmmm I have no idea who.

Here's a sneak of a little door hanging I have made for Lili...

Using some My Minds Eye papers.

I've had a blast making all these projects, I just hope people will like them!!

Ok, I'm off to continue packing. I will post pictures of all the layouts etc when I get back.

See ya

Kate.

Oh Flipperdee dooda!!!!

2009-04-24T16:46:00.004+12:00

Autumn Escape 1 week away... forget the gorgeous boots forget that they are a size too big and forget that I have to wear inner soles x 2 to make them fit me.... it's Autumn Escape in 1 week so it's all ok!!!! Can't wait actually!!!

Here's some sneak peeks of some of the work I've done with the gorgeous product I was sent.

Still more to do this weekend. I am having so much fun. Just very scary when sending the images to Nic. All the insecuruties come flooding back. But we all suffer from that huh???

So another scrapping weekend. Wahoo!!!

Oh and I will be breaking in the Vondas so I can be hip and cool at said Autumn Escape.!! LOL

Kate x x x

Love those Vondas..

2009-04-21T07:49:00.003+12:00

They arrived. These gorgeous babies...

Dr Marten boots all the way from the US. There is a long story to go with these boots but it's a bit boring. Suffice to say they are very cute and I love them!! SO no more jeans for me... skirts and tights all the way.

Kate

Hi honey I'm home...

2009-04-20T10:01:00.007+12:00

We had a fantastic time away in the far north. Great thing about Kaitaia is there isn't much there in the way of shops and movies etc... so once the obligatory trip to town was done there was nothing left to do but get grubby, play and just generally be out door kids. It was great to see the cousins get along so well and team up to make camp sites by the river, catch cook and eat eels, play games and hang out.

No make up or hair straightening to be seen. It was good!!!

The Easter bunny came!!! Merlin was s'posed to keep Lili in the bedroom so Jo and I weren't seen hiding 100 little eggs around her humongous garden. However Lili did see us coming up from way down the back so we told her we had been feeding the chooks. Fell for that one!! ? Maybe.

We hid her eggs in a smaller contained place in the garden first so luckily she didn't see us doing that.

So the hunt was on. 15 little eggs each and a bigger chocolate bunny. Only 2 little eggs weren't found. We couldn't find them anywhere.

Even big kids like to hunt for chocolate.

On Easter Sunday we went to the very top of the North Island. We had a great day. The weather was amazing and the scenery stunning.

Not a white cap in sight.

Where the oceans meet.

Hmmm peace baby.

On the way home we stopped at Te Paki Stream to look at the sand dunes and toboggan down them. They were huge!!!

Since I've been back I've been working on some pages and projects for the Autumn Escape. It's so good to see my bestie Rachel and get out walking and scrapping together.

Oh my gosh I so can't wait for Autumn Escape. It's gonna be amazing. Only 2 weeks away. Will put up some sneak peeks soon.

Took some cute autumn pics in the weekend.

You know Lili moves so fast it's nigh near impossible to get a shot of her, she just never stays still for more than a nano second. Then of course when she co operates the light is all wrong... whats a girl to do??? LOL. A good thing about visiting Mum and Dad wa the big girls saw all the old out of date photos of themselves and exclaimed "why do you have all these old photos of us?"

The point of them not letting me take photos of them was then firmly driven home!!!! Point taken. So should get some photos of the teens very soon!! Yee ha!!

Well thanks Jo and Mum and Dad for a great time away.

Long post... bit boring!!

Off to get what I hope is a very exciting parcel from the courier centre in Taradale.

Kate x x x

Happy Easter

2009-04-08T14:07:00.002+12:00

Yes it's school holiday time again... Yippee, love it. No ballet, no gymnastics, no soccer, no contemporary, no hockey, and actually i'm on leave so no night shifts.

Instead I am going to drive to the top of the island and visit my family. My brother on the way up and my mum and Dad and sister at the top.

This time I am dragging my kids kicking and screaming to the very very top of the north island as in Cape Reinga. I will take some pics.

SO a very happy Easter and holiday to you all.

Love and peace

Kate

Time for a catch up..

2009-04-05T19:48:00.004+12:00

Where to start?? Lots has happened.

Merlin has been away touring with the Wiggles. Lili thinks he is a legend!! He is!!!

I have resigned from the Scrappin' Patch design team, sad, in order to take part in some design work for Autumn Retreat, happy. I would have liked to do both but was unable to continue with Scrappin' Patch and take part in the other so I had to resign. SO that was disappointing but I am very thrilled to be on the Autumn Escape design team.

Speaking of Autumn Escape, you would be mad to miss it. It is going to be awesome. It really is going to be an escape. Something we all need every now and then. So if you haven't already made this event a priority you need to go here and register.

I've just returned from Sketchbook Scrap camp. Rachel and I had a great time and Rachel's class went very well. A long way to go but we met some lovely ladies and had a great time. I loved meeting the Scrappin' Patch design team girls. Great people.
Because Merlin was away too, I had to leave the kids home alone from Thursday to Sunday. I found it quite stressful and although it went relatively smoothly I won't be doing that in a hurry again. However when I got home the house was vacuumed, dishes done, bathroom scrubbed, washing done and my bed made with clean sheets on it. All this by B1 and B2. I am so impressed and thrilled. What great kids!!!

Crafty Tart had their shop there selling product and I was most impressed with the lay out and amount of product they had. Also what lovely people.

Scrap the girls have their next challenge up. We are having such a great response. I did this layout for this months challenge which is a colour challenge.

I am on annual leave for two weeks now and will be making the long trek to Kaitaia to visit my family. We leave on Thursday morning and meet Merlin in Auckland then up to Kaitaia Good Friday.

Brylee has Independence Games in New Plymouth the following weekend and is going by herself with no family support this year. We usually all go and have a great time but it just isn't going to work for us all to go. She will be well looked after by the rest of the team though.

I need an early night after lots of late nights at scrap camp.

Kate

Why are they so

2009-03-24T19:22:00.004+13:00

Fickle??

Lili does ballet.

This year in my usual bid to expose my children early to lots of activities (not as early as some) Lili started Gymnastics. I sometimes think she is too bouncy for ballet.

I was also keen for her to play a team sport. So since she had been talking about playing hockey since before she started school I suggested hockey.

Oh no she did not want to play hockey. Absolutely not. So after trying to convince her to no avail,I decided next year would be a better time to approach the idea of a team sport.

The day before yesterday someone asked her what sport she played and she said she was going to play hockey... what??

After telling her it was too late and she would have to wait til next year, I found out today that she can most likely join in at school on Wednesday lunch times.

SO here she is in our front yard in her brand new hockey gear.

Too cute.

Sent these pics to her Dad and he is stoked... he used to be into hockey big time. Lets hope she likes it!!LOL

Long story just so I could put up those photos of Lili.

Kate. x x x

Autumn is here..

2009-03-23T09:58:00.004+13:00

Sorry Kate G but it's true. I actually don't mind. I love the crisp sunny days of Autumn. Not so keen on still dark at 7.00am mornings though. The cat woke me, it was dark, thought I'd better check it was 6.00am like I thought it was but no it was 7.ooam. All kids still in bed. Aghh!!!

I ran 3 km this morning. I'm pretty chuffed with myself. Ok, so some could walk as fast as I run but it's still harder than walking. My body thinks so anyway.

Merlin is away for the next nearly 3 weeks. I will meet him in Auckland on Good Friday and we will be heading to Kaitaia for a wee holiday. Big road trip. Should be a lot of fun. Haven't seen Mum and Dad for ages.

Scrap the Girls are having a Creative Team call. Come and join a great team.

I will be getting my next Scrappin' Patch design team kit this week and some extras I had them pop in, so hope to have something to show for it in the next wee while. Has to be done before I go away.

I can't do a post without a picture so I will go look for one now.

This is a pic of the aprons Rachel and I made for Senz last year. We wear then to the classes and crops we take at Hastings Rubber Stamps.

Rachel is teaching classes at Senz again this year so don't miss out!! We hope to see you there.

This is the younger two girls Easter last year. The older two were at Easter camp. We will all be together this Easter at my Sisters place in Kaitaia so looking forward to some family photos.

We are starting out build up to Easter over at Scrappin' Patch soon so keep an eye out for some insiration. I hope to get started on mine this week.

Have a great week.

Kate

Wedding Anniversary

2009-03-17T08:08:00.003+13:00

18 years of marriage. It's a bit of a milestone. Well done us, I say. So we went out for lunch between conference calls. It was nice. Happy Anniversary and then off to night shift. Life goes on!!!

This layout was completed a while ago. Submitted it to a design team call but not successful this time.

Love the light on Lili.

Just a quick post as I have been up all night and I am ready to crash. Just have to take Lili to school, go to the library and post office.... or maybe i'll do that after school and sleep.

See ya

Kate

2009-03-08T17:09:00.001+13:00

There is a give away over here . Ruth is a kiwi living in England and is a scrap booker. Go visit her and leave a friendly kiwi message.

That's all

Kate

Lovin' the rain...

2009-03-06T08:47:00.009+13:00

I dunno, it's grey and raining and I am at home. I don't really have to be anywhere and it feels good.

Ok more scrap camp. Here's a photo of my partners in crime. One of my dearest friends Barb on the far right and Rachel Hoskings who taught such fun classes next to me. Rachel my serious partner in crime and her friend and mine too now I hope, Julia. I have to say Julia was on fire, she has really only been scrap booking for a short time and she put us all to shame with the number of layouts she created. Not that it's a competition aye ladies, which is just as well coz I would be the big fat loser!!! I was slow at best, it was like getting blood out of a stone this time but it's not just about the scrap booking. I have one word for you... net working... or is that two words..LOL. In other words (more than one) making new friends.!! Love that part!!! ok ok the photo..

For some reason this lay out took me ages and it was part started/finished when I got to camp...

I then did another which took me hours with lots and lots of hand stitching a la Prima stitched papers but I am submitting that somewhere. If it doesn't get picked will put it up then.

And at the end was a 2 hour challenge courtesy of The Scrapbook Outlet. It's the only thing I did fast all weekend...

This is one of my gorgeous nephews. It is only the second ever boy pages I have done. I hope you like it Jo, coz it's yours!!!

Also I entered this....

into the Prima frugal competition where you had to use Prima packaging. I used the lid of a flower container hammered flat and the backing off the felt voila flourishes and the packaging of the Prima transparencies. It's a canvas for my Mum. I've never done a canvas before and in actual fact I have not yet attached the page to the canvas. Any tips from experienced canvas makers out there??

Wow is this my longest post ever or what. Now because it's raining and my children vacumed and mopped while I was at work yesterday evening I can create... something... I got a beautiful recipe from Yolande from Scrap Camp...might have to make that this weekend. Yolande and Lianne did a great job of camp again this year so Thank You!!!!

See Ya

KT Pai

Back from camp

2009-03-04T20:53:00.003+13:00

Yes I survived Scrap Camp Rotorua. Again!! It was fantastic.. will share some pics tomorrow.

The March challenge is up at Scrap the Girls.... that would be because it is March... can you believe it???

Here is my take on the sketch....

So go and join in the challenge. Scrap the Girls is also doing a swap so you can get into that aswell.

It's going to be our 18th wedding anniversary later this month... how did that happen???

Talk later.

Kate

Just Delish!!

2009-02-23T19:47:00.004+13:00

Here's the lay out I have been working on with product sent to me by Scrappin' Patch.

I have used the Delish Designs Bistro collection of papers and some of their embellishments. Found here in the shop.

And some close ups..

I am now getting ready to pack up and go to one of my favourite events of the year. Rotorua Scrap Camp. I have had the best times there over the years and can't wait to get there again and have a blast. So roll on this weekend.

Have a great week. HopefullyI will have something to show for a weekend of non stop scrap booking.

Kate

I made...

2009-02-22T12:47:00.003+13:00

This..

for Brylee's 13th birthday party. Her birthday was in January but we panned a party for February. Sadly the party didn't go exactly as planned but the hiccup didn't kill the party and the girls had a great time.

Sneak peek...

of a project for Scrappin' Patch to go up soon.

Happy Sunday

Kate

Scrapping on a budget..

2009-02-18T20:51:00.003+13:00

Scrappin' Patch sent me a few bit and pieces to create a layout and more if I could, for less than $10. Here's what I came up with from 3 pieces of paper, a piece of ribbon and a few flowers and brads.

Simple but quite cute. The products for these projects can be found here. It is the Making Memories Delaney range of patterned paper. All the products and costs are listed here..

The instructions are posted here..

Still working on my second project for Scrappin' Patch. Will be finished by Friday.

Kate

Did you see this at Scrap the Girls???

2009-02-17T13:16:00.003+13:00

Would you like to see your layout on the STG Blog???

We are looking for our readers to send in some Valentine inspired layouts for a special reader inspiration post, if you would like to see your layout on the STG blog and help inspire someone else we would love to see them, please email your layouts with the following information to:

Subject: Valentine Special
Email: scrapthegirls@hotmail.com
Due Date: 20th February 2009

SO send those lay outs in girls!!!

Also here's a sneak peak of something I've been working on for Scrappin' Patch.
Keep watching for when it pops up on Budget to Blitz.
on the scrappin' Patch forum.

I've got another lay out nearly finished for Scrappin' patch which will also appear on the forum very soon. SO will post a sneak peak of that one too.

Kate

Back to School.

2009-02-08T12:41:00.004+13:00

Yes all back at school on full time table last Thursday. Three at high school and one at primary. Everybody came back happy and relaxed. Phew!!!

Great long weekend. Scorching hot days spent at the beach, pools and of course scrap booking. There have been some challenges going on over at Scrappin' Patch

This was my challenge... Still time to complete it by the way and win a little prize...

Create a layout with hand cut leaves and/or vines. Easy challenge.

Speaking of challenges.. Scrap the Girls has posted their February challenge. Use ephemera on a scrap book page. They even have a link to a definition of ephemera if you need it. Here is my take on the challenge this month

I used Brylee's ID bracelet and her hospital cot card as my ephemera. I thought I collected a whole lot of that sort of stuff but it seems I have not so I had difficulty finding something for this challenge.

I have also completed one of my assignments for Scrappin' Patch. That will go up on the forum later this month. I might just have to do some sneak peaks!!

Hope you all had a great Waitangi weekend!!

Kate x x x

Days to remember.

2009-02-02T11:01:00.007+13:00

31st of January and 1st of February are significant dates for our family as it is the anniversary of our car accident. It's 7 years ago now and life is good but this time of year always will be tinged with sadness for me.

It is however my mothers birthday today. Happy birthday Mum. I love you!!! Here she is looking beautiful.

My husband also starts a new job. It is in Auckland so we will see less of him but he is excited about this job so that is all good. Hope his first day is fantastic.

Also my little girl went to high school today. She was very excited and a little bit nervous. I was excited and a little bit anxious as I always am sending her into new environments. My youngest had her first day too and is off to year 2. She was just plain excited and jumped out of my bed ( hmmm yes...hubby replaced pretty quickly by little wriggly girl) and got dressed and ready in quick smart time.

Thinking of you Kate and your kids all off to school for the first time. Hugs and kisses to you!!!

So February is well and truly under way. There will be a new challenge up at Scrap the Girls tomorrow. The entries for January are fabulous so hard to pick my top three.
Also Scrappin' Patch has some great challenges for Waitangi Day planned. Sneak peeks are going up in the forum this week to get you curious!! Here's a sneak peek of my challenge...

Have a great back to school week. Make sure you set aside some ME time and do some scrap booking this weekend.

Time for me to get my house in order.

Laters

Kate x x x

Hi, I'm back...

2009-01-30T00:06:00.004+13:00

Went to Parachute Music Festival and had a great time. Met up with people I only see when I go there, it's like our yearly catch up. It was so hot, very dusty and noisy but a great time was had by all.

Anyhow this is where I spent most of the weekend...

Working at my brothers shop selling jewellery.

My brother has a very cool car and caravan which was parked by the Plug Stand so here it is with my girls in it...

I have been scrap booking this week but not anything I can put up here yet. Something for Scrap the Girls and some other lay outs.

I still haven't done my 52Q cards. Seem to be having a creative block over those.

Still, I am going great guns this year. Enjoying every moment of it. My Scrappin' Patch kit is on it's way to me and I can't wait to get stuck into the projects they set me.

Hope to get my 52Q cards done this weekend and post them up here.

Katepai x x x

A challenge

2009-01-22T10:13:00.004+13:00

Hi everybody,

I'm off to a young persons music festival where I will try to be hip and cool and fail miserably. Still it will be fun embarrassing my teenagers. I will actually be working on my brothers stall in the retail village selling cool jewellery so I will get to wear that, there's an up side to everything.

Any way I have just put up the challenge over at Scrappin' Patch. It's a day early because I'm going to no computer land. The challenge is to use fabric somewhere on your lay out. So go ahead and join in. You might win a cute little prize from Scrappin' Patch.

Here's my take on the challenge...

I'm now 3 questions behind on Emily's Q52. I will catch up. I promise!!!

Have a great weekend everyone.

Happy scrapping!!

Katepai. x x x

Blog awards

2009-01-19T20:49:00.002+13:00

Ok so I'm pretty new to this blogging thing but it seems there are blog awards going around. I've been awarded the same award called a Lovely Blog Award from two lovely ladies.

The first from Amanda Go visit her blog. Thanks Amanda.

Another from Heidi Thanks Heidi.

Apparently I'm s'posed to nominate 7 people but I think every one I follow has been awarded pretty much so I might just give that part a miss. Hope that's ok.

My husband is back from Malaysia tonight so it's very exciting.

We're off to Parachute music festival this weekend with the kids so have to get my scrapping stuff done before I go. Might be some late nights I think.

See ya.

Kate x x x

Orange and black and 52 Questions..

2009-01-18T11:54:00.006+13:00

Scrappin Patch is half way through their first fortnightly challenge for this year. The challenge set by Beverley is to create a lay out using the colours of the Scrappin' Patch forum. Go on over and take a look and give it a go. I wasn't sure about the colours at first, then I saw Heidi's gorgeous orange and black lay out and thought, orange hmmm Basic Grey.... I can do that. So I decided I would give it a go and here is my effort. Thanks Heidi for the inspiration.

I have also decided to take part in Emily Falconbridge's 52 Q.

I have made a little folder for the cards to go in and just have to make two cards to catch up with the questions. Will post when done. The fronts anyway perhaps not the backs with the answers on them.

Here's another lay out I haven't put here yet. Another wedding one. I used a small piece of fabric that my wedding dress was made from. My mother made my dress and it was rather gorgeous. She did a good job making it from a sketch!!! However sadly it was stolen from my home not long after we were married so photos and a few fabric scraps are all I have left of it. I thought it didn't really matter but now my girls are getting older they wish I still had it so they could see it in real life.

Oh and this lay out is the one I origianlly did for the January Scrap the Girls challenge. However I had a hiccup with the photos so I didn't finish it time. I did however use this lay out and the one above for my article about fabric for Scrap Tech Tuesday over at Scrappin' Patch.

So what with my hubby away in Malaysia, having visitors non stop since 29th of December, and going back to work, I haven't done too badly. I have managed to squeeze some scrap booking in and complete the things I needed to by their respective deadlines. So what I need to do now is get off here and get to work on my challenge for Scrappin' Patch and my 52Q cards. Oh and maybe some magazine submissions coz you never know your luck.

Kate x x x

Another one...

2009-01-12T06:16:00.004+13:00

Yes we have another teenager in this house. That makes three teenage girls/young women. What an adventure.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRYLEE!!!

This time of year

2009-01-04T17:37:00.006+13:00

is all about setting goals,new beginnings, fresh starts. It reminds me of getting my new exercise books at school and promising myself that this time every page would be neat and beautiful examples of gorgeous work. So, inspired by Heidi from Scrappin' Patch I set about creating a layout about my goals for this year.

I'm actually rather pleased with this layout but I have to say it looks better in real life. It doesn't look so good photographed. Anyway, I hope to be able to tick off each promise to myself at the end of the year.

What are your goals, wishes, word for 2009?

Kate

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-01-01T17:56:00.007+13:00

Happy 2009 to everyone. We had a small but happy celebration. It was kinda weird because my two eldest daughters were elsewhere. I guess that is going to happen more and more as they grow into adults but I am struggling to let go. Lucky I have 2 smaller daughters as well which helps distract me from the fact that my big girls are not needing me quite so much... or maybe in a different way than I am used too.

This is Lili up on our friends shoulders. We went for Fish n Chips on the beach and it was a dark rainy evening which became this glorious evening...

Lili and her cousins enjoyed a twilight swim. The light was beautiful.

The January challenge is up on Scrap The Girls. Go check it out and the lovely layouts the CT have created. I sent in my layout posted below. I was working on another to send in but I was let down by the photo processing place I was using so I didn't get it finished. Thankfully I had the other as a back up. Some more great prizes this month too so have a go. You gotta be in to win.

Happy scrapping.

Kate

Christmas evening

2008-12-28T11:24:00.003+13:00

We had 20 people, family and friends for Christmas dinner. It was wonderful, and all done on two hours sleep. We had a lovely Christmas day and Merlin and I were just so thrilled with the thought the girls had gone to with their gift giving this year.

My best present.... when my 16 year old suggested they all sleep together on Christmas Eve, much to the delight of Lili (6 yrs) .. so sweet and precious. I really am blessed to have such an amazing family.

I hope your Christmas was fun and relaxed as well.

Kate

Summer time

2008-12-28T11:15:00.004+13:00

I made this layout using Pink Paislee patterned papers and some vintage lace and flowers. I really like the sweet summery look. And the yummy ice creams.

I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas Day and you are enjoying this glorious summer. I am on anuual leave and have started my regime of walking up the goat track on Te Mata peak. It feels bad at the time but it feels so good afterwards.

I'm looking forward to some fun days on the beach with the kids.

Happy holidaying

Kate x x x

Quick, easy and cheap last minute gift idea.

2008-12-21T22:49:00.003+13:00

After a recent melt down by one of my teens, I thought that it would be a good idea if we had journals to note down the things that we are grateful for. (Not a new idea I know) So this afternoon I altered these hard cover school note books. Because it was a last minute kind of thing I have kept them pretty simple. I have used fabric and paper scraps and bits and pieces I had around the place. I hope the girls will write in them at the end of the day and in the process learn to be more aware and thankful for all they have. I think I better make myself one too!!
SO for 70 cents, a few scraps and a bit of time you have a cute little last minute gift.

Have a very happy and thankful Christmas

Kate

Here's some pressies...

2008-12-21T18:22:00.003+13:00

Look at the pressies under the tree. Amazing what you can do with some junk and a glue gun!!

Summer is....

2008-12-19T13:22:00.005+13:00

Ice creams at the Strawberry patch. Yes this is definately something we look forward to every year. These ice creams are the best!!!!

How good is this?...

2008-12-17T12:22:00.009+13:00

I have just recieved the news that I have been chosen to be a part of Scrappin' Patch's design team. Yes... you better believe it coz it's true... I have, along with 3 other awesome ladies, Annelie Maddock, Tracy Leroy and Delys Cram, been asked to make up the first design team. So I am like a pig in mud actually. Totally stoked!!! (A little surprised). Slightly apprehensive, for all sorts of reasons,not least my persisting lack of faith in myself, but mostly excited. Yeah, so bring it on!!! Its a great team. Also Beverley Cunningham and Heidi Barclay are guest designers so that's awesome too.

So doing a huge happy dance over here at my place.

Also made this...

yes another recycled tin.
I just love the little gold bird.
I have no idea what I'll put in it.
Still it just looks good hanging around
the house spreading it's Christmas cheer.

And this is what our Christmas tree looks like at night... well sort of... only better. Hmmmm, I'm dreaming of..... a DSLR....

Lili had a haircut the other day. She specifically requested a fringe, (try explaining a cowlick to a 6 year old) so here she is with her fringe.. so cute. However I had to follow her around the house to try and get a shot of her and she did NOT under any circumstances want a photo taken. This was one of the best... yes you should see the others.

So that must be enough boring dribble from me. Happy mid December to you all.

Katepai. x x x

I made this.

2008-12-05T10:12:00.000+13:00

I made this last night. I am so pleased with how it has turned out. I hope to make another one at least. I love using old stuff, and re-cycling bits and pieces. Rachel spotted these tins when we were out for a walk. They were in someones recycling. Cool coffee tins. We walked by thinking, no we shouldn't, then I thought nah stuff it they're cool I want them so we grabbbed them. So glad I did.
I am totally in love with the tissue paper flowers. They are gorgeous!!!
SO when I'm not working a the hospital I will be busy creating Christmassy stuff.
PS. Anyone know why my 1st Dec post has the 30th November date and how to change it???
See ya!
Katepai

Of mice, flowers and the first day of Christmas...

2008-12-01T19:58:00.000+13:00

Ballet recital time, how cute is this....

My little mouse and my gorgeous flower in Waltz of the Flowers. The mouse was cute but I question how much ballet she has actually learnt this year. LOL. Brylee shone on stage as usual and I was very proud Mummy!!

Oh, also the December challenge is up on Scrap the Girls. It is a sketch this month. Here is my layout based on the sketch. Pop on over and take a look at the rest of the creative teams layouts.

It is the 1st of December. The advent calenders are up, (my husband asks why we have three... duh) I am still looking for one which seems to have been carefully put away.. so carefully we can't find it. LOL.
Anyway I whipped home from work, piled the kids into the trusty, rusty Volvo and we trooped to the Christmas tree shop/field thing. We were underwhelmed by the size of the trees but found one we liked the shape of, had it chopped down thrown into back of station wagon, scored lollypops and drove home (stopping on the way to purchase cherries). We then took to decorating said tree. Guess what!? 6 year olds don't "get" the idea of a themed Christams tree much to my 12 year olds disgust. it's all about "more is more"!!! Here's a few pics.

It's starting to look more Christmassy around here. Now off to find the missing advent calender. It's the one which the candy goes in it so it's high priority!!!!

Happy 1st of December to you.

Katepai xxx

Before I go to work....

2008-11-22T07:25:00.001+13:00

My christmas wish layout for the Scrapbook Outlet competition. My teenagers were not convinced about the santa hats but the photo shoot was fun. We didn't get too many good shots, partly due to the subjects and partly due to my pathetic photography skills. I have threatened them with a repeat shoot. Maybe reindeer antlers this time. LOL. Heres some more photos from the shoot.

Have a good weekend everybody. Oh and if anyone can tell me how to put the blinkie Mel from STG sent me via e mail onto my blog and onto my signiture on the forums then I would be most grateful. Thanks Raewyn for telling me how to do links!!

Katepai X X X

It's official

2008-11-21T06:24:00.000+13:00

I got chosen for the Scrap the Girls contibutors/design team. This is my first go at this sort of thing and I am very excited. I must say with 4 daughters I am certainly qualified in the girls department. Anyway I am uber excited and it went up on the STG's blog today. Congratulations to the other 6 ladies aswell. I am so definately doing a little katepai jig around the place. I've got a couple more layouts to put up but I am actually off to work. Just wanted to post this fabuloso news. Annelie I see your name there too, go you. And Kim, Whoopee.
Katepai x x x

Here's another one.

2008-11-20T10:25:00.001+13:00

This was my entry for the October sketch challenge on SketchbookNZ. I used Basic Grey Urban Prairie papers from my Tarisota kit. Yes I was lucky enough to recieve 3 months Subscription for my 40th from some very special peeps.
It's very exciting cos I won this one. Also it is on the Basic Grey gallery and if I could turn Basic Grey into a link I would but I can't. Someone might tell me how to do that one day.

This one is also in the basic grey gallery. I did it for the Sketchbook Friday night challenge. I was picked out of the hat to win this aswell which was hillarious and got a lovely RAK from Scrappin'Patch.

I am also taking part in The Scrapbook Outlet's Very Sweet Christmas Competition.
First challenge was to create a Christmas countdown calender. I was admittedly a bit stumped for this one (I'm very afraid of Off the Page) but managed to put this little thing together made out of an old frame I had hanging around. A bit of BG some bling, tags and some beading.

Challenge two we were asked to make a set of three cards. This has set me on quite a card making spree. .

Lili had birthdays to go to last weekend so I made these

And then last but not least (for now anyway) there's nothing like a good catch up!!
My layout for the last No 8 wired challenge blog.

That's all folks. That certainly killed some time while I wait for my Tarisota pack to come. Rachels has come so I am eagarly awaiting the arrival of a most exciting pizza box. I think I better go out before I drive my teenage daughter crazy!!

Some stuff I've been doing...

2008-11-20T09:37:00.000+13:00

I bit of a back track here. I did this layout for the Sketchbook celebrity challengein October. The brief was to cut out patterned paper and use it on your layout. I used a beautiful Karen Russell pp and some lovely old hand made lace/doily.
Now believe me when you were married in the early '90's it's not easy to scrap wedding photos. My sister in law took this on black and white film while the photographer was doing his thing in colour.
Sadly,my wedding dress was stolen from my home not long after we were married but Mum still has her petticoat which I had borrowed for the day, I thought this photo showed it off as well as any.

Ok I can't work out how to stop any further photos going to the top so I will have to do separate posts.
Heck, I hope I get better at this.

Katepai

Up and running

2008-11-17T21:39:00.000+13:00

Oh my gosh.. here it is, my first post. I want to write something unbelievably earth shattering but I can't think of anything.
I have been pondering a blog for a long time now and here it is at last. It is definately going to be a work in progress and I'm sure it will change along the way but it's good to be up and running. Ok so I guess nobody will actually read this except for my dear friend who I will insist on coming to have a look so I can just say "here I am, blogging.... Yay!!!"