A Load of Old Scrap

Jacqueline Wilson and SVT among other things

2009-10-02T10:30:00.003+01:00

(Not my photo)

Yesterday Ruth and I were fortunate enough to go to a talk given by the wonderful Jacqueline Wilson. I have to say she is one of the nicest people I have ever heard speak. And we share a birthday! Unfortunately we didn't get there in time for the personal dedication queue (stuck in traffic!), but we were able to buy pre-signed copies of her new book Hetty Feather. It was a wonderful evening, and Ruth was chosen to ask a question, in front of all the hundreds of people :)

Another positive outcome from yesterday was my long awaited Cardiologist appointment. (The initial referral letter went astray!). I saw Dr. Routledge, and she was excellent. Totally not what I had anticipated - I was expecting an older man - not sure why! We had a good chat, as well as having a few tests, and she thinks I have SVT (supra ventricular tachycardia). This has similar symptoms to AF, which is what the GP thought it might be, but is not potentially dangerous. So over-all very good news. As I don't get it often enough at the moment to significantly effect my every day life, we decided to just monitor it for the time being. There are a couple of treatment options - Betablockers and an invasive procedure, but we decided that these are a bit drastic for the time being. I know I'm not going to drop dead, and what it is (having a name for it helps), and if it gets more regular in the future, I can go back and we can look at those options then. What she does want me to do is try and get to the GP or A&E when I'm having an episode, so they can get an ECG to see where exactly in my heart the short-circuit is.

I have been blogging since the last entry here, but on my Blythe blog SakuraBlythe. I have been hvaing fun making clothes for the girls :D

Class of 2009 - We Did It

2009-09-11T18:27:00.001+01:00

Class of 2009 - We Did It
Originally uploaded by SakuraBlythe

Today we graduated at Worcester Cathedral. Perfect weather, great friends, proud family. The perfect day :)

And the prize I was awarded will pay for my Flickr Pro Account!

Artfire

2009-07-29T21:52:00.005+01:00

So, to fund my newest addiction (Blythe), I have started knitting again. I've set up a little Artfire store - SakuraBlythe to sell the things I make. So far there are 2 hats and a scarf in there, but I'll be adding more things as they're finished.

I got the Event Monitor on Monday evening, and so waiting to see if I have an 'event' while I have it on - Sod's Law says I won't of course, but really hope it gets sorted. Trouble is, I'm allergic to the glue on the sticky pads with the contacts in - the itching is driving me mad! Taken some anti-histamine, which makes me fall asleep, but about to go to bed, so not really a problem today for a change :)

Long time no see

2009-07-19T11:48:00.006+01:00

_WARNING - majorly long post_
It has been a busy few months. A mad rush to get all my college assignments in on time - which paid off when I got the letter this week telling me I'd passed with Distinction :) Yep, that made the past 2 years of hard work, stress, wondering if it was all worth it totally worthwhile. I'm signed up for the degree at the same college, and get to do it part-time over 3 years instead of 4 because of my results from the HND. Its such a nice feeling being able to be proud of myself. At school I was bullied. Not badly, but enough that I deliberately tried to hide it when I did well, or try to do badly so I didn't stand out. Ha! No chance of that now. I've worked damn hard, and I deserve good grades, so I'm going to be proud of myself for a change. John was here when I opened the letter, and having him hug me and tell me how proud he was really made it a perfect moment. I was shaking and my heart was pounding - it was quite funny!

I got another couple of letters yesterday - one had the information about the graduation ceremony in September, and one saying I'm getting the prize for my course :) I had known there was one, and it had been my aim to try my best for it, but with all the stress of moving etc, I'd totally forgotten til the letter came. I was feeling scared of the future, and wondering if Law was the right career for me, but this has totally persuaded me.

Had my yearly blood pressure check with the nurse at my GP's practice this week. No problems with that, she didn't even bother weighing me as she thought I looked exactly the same as last year (phew!). I thought it was worth asking her about my weird heart 'thing.' Okay, a brief explanation. Since I was about 12 I started getting a weird heartbeat at times for no apparent reason. Sometimes it would be irregular - kinda like an improvised Jazz drum beat (this happened when I was about to have my wisdom teeth out, and I didn't even realise the noise I could hear on the monitor was my heart beat - it was that bizarre). It lasts from just a few seconds, to half an hour. Its feels horrible and scary and makes me dizzy, but it goes away as suddenly as it starts. More recently, it has tended to be a different kind of strange beat - it suddenly starts beating at about 200 times a minute (usually I'm a bout 60). It feels like I need to cough, like I have a wheezy chest, if that makes sense. It can start suddenly when I'm just sitting doing nothing. Usually it feels like its beating so fast its not beating hard enough, but a couple of months ago it started beating that fast, and so hard it was making my shoulder jerk. Lasted about 10 minutes, and just as I was about to think I needed to see a doctor, it stopped. I have seen the doctor about it a few times in the past, and even had a 24 hour trace. Of course it didn't happen in that time (Sod's Law of course), so the doctors decided that it was just stress and I should try to avoid caffeine, and other stimulants. Basically they thought it was either a panic attack or all in my head. I'm quite a sensitive person, so I felt really awful. I knew it was real, but everyone told me it couldn't be too bad or it would have been picked up.

I gave blood last year for the first time last year. On the form you have to fill in, I explained about the weird heart beat. They didn't want to let me donate in case it put too much stress on me, but I told them what the Drs had said - that it was just stress related. So the nurse that was in charge said they'd let me that time, but I had to be really careful, and if I go the weird heartbeat thing afterwards to go straight to A&E. So I gave blood, and was fine. Til about half an hour after I got home. I washed up, then sat down for a rest. Then my heart started to beat at 200 beats a minute. John and the kids were in bed, and I didn't want to wake them up. Thought everyone would think it was an over-reaction to something that was normal after giving blood. The increased heart rate lasted for 2 hours. The next day I spoke to my friends and relatives who have given blood, and did lots of research on the Internet. Seems its was not a normal reaction, and no one I know has had anything like that - just a bit of tiredness which goes away after they've slept.

So I spoke to the nurse. Told her all of this. And she nodded and smiled, and UNDERSTOOD! Even my family were thinking it was all in my head. She said it may have become normal for me, but it was NOT normal. In fact you shouldn't usually be aware of your heart beat! I am usually aware of it. She's booked me in for a 2 week trace. I have to wear the monitor for up to 2 weeks and if I have an 'episode' during that time, I press a button and it records it. Then I see the GP who refers me to the Cardiologist if they think its necessary. I just want a name for it. I just want to finally be able to say 'I'm not just a hypochondriac - this is real!'

I've been doing some reading on the Internet. OK, never a good idea, but there are some Arrhythmia sites which are helpful. And scary, but mostly helpful. I figure that I haven't dropped down dead yet, so whatever it is that I get probably isn't dangerous. And possibly treatable. But its such a relief to talk about it have have someone understand and know they believe me. To coin a phrase, its a weight off my chest knowing its finally being understood.

One of the things I've been to the doctor repeatedly for over the past few years is extreme tiredness. I've been tested for anaemia, diabetes, under/over active thyroid, and various illnesses, with all the results being nagative, and being told thats its just normal tiredness for a mother. But none of my friends have the same tiredness levels when they're well. And I've found out its another symtom of arrhythmia. So much is falling into place.

Sorry for the long post - really needed to unburden :)

Blythe!!!!

2009-05-27T09:44:00.001+01:00

They're here! I have started a new blog for my Blythe ramblings, although I'm sure they'll make their way over here from time to time.

SakuraBlythe - this is my Blythe blog. Come and take a look :)

Studio Calico - I think I love you!

2009-05-12T20:37:00.005+01:00

This is the very peculiar bag that my kit box arrived in - was very worried to start with - thought it might have been damaged or something. But it was ok! As this is probably my last kit for a while I documented the process - have photos of the box being opened etc. Yes I am obsessed!

This was the beauty within. I got up at 4.45am last month to get the 2 add-ons I wanted. No, needed! This was possibly my favourite kit ever. Really looking forward to scrapping with it. I'm hoping that my stopping buying kits for a while will not only help my bank balance, but also get me using the kits I already have.

Yesterday I discovered a new obsession - Kokeshi dolls from Japan. Not the new ones, but the beautiful weathered vintage ones. Ruth collects Momiji dolls, which are a kind of modern version, but these have so much history. If you do a search on Ebay you'll find some from sellers in Japan.

I'm tired now - its been John's day off so we've spent the day not really doing much, so not sure why I'm so tired. We did walk to school and back twice I suppose, but its not that far. And I do need the exercise if I'm going to fit in these jeans by next week.

I don't know what Ruth's been eating, but she must have grown another couple of inches. She now comes higher than my shoulder. Will have to get John to take some photos. Alex has swimming and tennis tomorrow, so he'll be tired when he gets home = grumpy. He loves tennis though - we've spent most of the evening today playing with plastic rackets and a foam ball in the hall. Que great hilarity as the ball bounced off doors, walls, our heads and basically anything but the rackets.

Creativity

2009-05-09T16:37:00.005+01:00

Seems like my new crafty space has been an inspiration. I made this card for my Grandma's 80th birthday. The photo isn't fantastic but I was quite pleased with it - I'm not much of a card maker these days. The flower was based on a tutorial over at the Studio Calico blog.
I also made her this necklace using a glass square kit from Etsy. It was the first one I made, and it came out rather well too.
And these are two little (tiny!) cushions I made for the kids. The stitching's not perfect, but the kids love them. Alex had been asking me to make them for weeks. They're only about 4"x6" and the pictures are Adirondack Paint Dabbers through Stencil1 stencils. I'm not sure why he wanted them to be so small but they're certainly cute. And got me using my sewing machine :) I have lots of gorgeous fabric, patterns and craft books which I'd been too scared to do anything with, but now I might actually get on and make something more ambitious.

Transformation

2009-05-03T17:25:00.007+01:00

Yes, so I know its a tip, but we have recently moved (like weeks ago), and my scrap space was not exactly a prioity. But now the rest of the house is mostly done, finally I was ablt to put my desk together and start unpacking!!!!!

So this is what my scrapping stash looked lik 24 hours ago......

....... and this is what it looks like now. Not 100% finished, but mostly there. I'm so happy to have my scrappy space back. Really makes me smile everytime I walk in the living room.
This si my desk - love the cake stands :) I have punches on the small one, and stamps, adhesives, buttons and other bits and bobs on the tall pink ones.This is a close up of the ceramic cake stand. I found the ceramic rose when I was buying curtains. Can't remember the name of the shop, but it only cost £1 (the curtains were a LOT more!).

So all in all, (inter)national scrapbooking day well spent I think. May even get to scrap tonight. Whoo hoo! Have to make my Grabdma's 80th birthday card and present too. Hoping my new space will be inspirational.

And all of this was inspired by Scarlet over at Studio Calico, with her NSD challenge - maybe not finished in time, but thanks for the kick up the backside to get it done :)

2009-04-19T17:28:00.003+01:00

This is where I'll be all day tomorrow. It's a college trip to the House of Commons and House of Lords. Should be interesting. We have to get to college for 7.15am though which is sooo early! Will have to leave home at 6.50am!!!!!!!!!!! It'll take about 3 hours on the coach, so Laura and I are taking our Ipods and a book and being anti-social.

Got a new lawn mower today after the old one blew up (black smoke started billowing out last time it was used. Garden looks so much better now. And the sun has been out most of the day so I.m feeling all happy.

Ikea stuff will be coming on Friday. Can't wait to get everything unpacked and put away. Most stuff is out of boxes, but there are still enough around to make it feel a bit of a mess. The new carpets are still looking great. The house will look lovely once its finished. Will just have decorating left to do then.

Just about to make our favourite dinner - mozzarella and tomato with garlic doughballs. Then have to get kids bathed and too bed so I can attack the massive pile of ironing. Then 2 episodes of Desperate Housewives - yay! Loving this season.

Still not done those assignments for college though. Really have to finish then ASAP. Have to take car back to garage on Wednesday though for latch to be fixed and Ikea delivery will take most of Friday (we're getting a LOT of furniture).

Have been looking at Laptop bags for the new laptop I got yesterday to replace the old one that I have to give back to college in June. So far my favourite is this one from Cath Kidston.
Its so different to the normal boring black ones you see all the time. I love her retro fabric patterns. Have ordered some fabric from Etsy which is similar to some of hers. Will have a go at making a bag soon.

Rain rain go away

2009-04-17T11:45:00.006+01:00

Its so miserable here - hasn't stopped raining for 2 days. We have damp appearing on the bathroom ceiling, so have to wait in all day for a building inspector to come and have a look. To cheer myself up, I've dug out some sunny photos from the last few weeks.

These are the owl cakes I made using one of the recipe books I was given for Mothering Sunday. Love owls, and these were almost to cute too eat. Almost, but didn't stop me finishing them all off (with a bit of help form the family of course!). Pilchard enjoying the sunshine a few weeks ago just before we moved. Love this cat so much. Even though he's moulting all over the new carpets and puking up hair balls (yum!). No amount of brushing seems to help much although my hands are showing it when I don't move the brush out of the way fast enough when he gets fed up and attacks the brush. Helps that he's so photogenic :)

This was my lovely family on Easter Monday.. We went and found a geocahe that had been evading us for a year, and then climbed British Camp. Ached for days afterwards!

These little lambs were guarding the cache. I love lambs. Makes me feel all happy and summery. We hand-reared a lamb in New Zealand when I was 3, so they're very dear to my heart.

My Studio Calico kit came yesterday! Love it as always. Haven't had much time for crafty stuff recently, but did make a few fabric yo-yos from Heather Bailey's tutorial while watching TV the other night. Really happy with how they came out :) Going to try my hand at sewing a few things. I love fabic and have quite a bit so might as well stop being scared of messing up and have a go! If you know any good ewing inspiration sights I'd love it if you could link me up :)

A Little Sad...........

2009-04-15T10:26:00.002+01:00

Found out last night that people have moved into our old house. I know the move was final the moment we gave the keys back, but still, it feels different. Don't get me wrong - I love this house. It's just that there were so many memories at the old place. At least the house won't feel lonely now :) Hope the new people are happy there.

About to take Alex for a much needed hair cut (see photo in last post). His hair is in his eyes now! He looks so much more grown up with it short. They're both growing up so fast.

Hoping a few deliveries I'm expecting come today - especially my Studio Calico kit. Just hope it doesn't arrive while we're out.

Attempt 2

2009-04-10T10:20:00.005+01:00

Its decided to work again now, so here goes - The new sofa - we can just about all fit on it at the same time ATM - that won't last long though seeing how quickly the kids are growing.

And the wardrobe I tried to put in the last post. With the Komplement fittings so we can organise everything nicely.

Finally a recent photo I'm really proud of (see here.) Really captures this cheeky little monkey perfectly.

Just can't seem to get going

2009-04-10T09:55:00.008+01:00

With anything at the moment. I think moving just took everything out of me - emotionally and physically. Or I'm just plain lazy. Or maybe a mixture of the 2??? Really need to crack on with my college assignments, but have managed nothing so far bar buying textbooks. Oh yes, that is the one thing I can do - spend!!

We've ordered the Ikea furniture which arrives 2 weeks today - can't wait!

This is my chair which is going to be at my crafting table and double up as an arm chair. Its so comfy - I love it!

My Expedit desk which attaches onto the front of my Expedit shelf (I have the biggest one). Can't wait to have a desk again :)

The wardrobe we'll have in our room. We've got all the inside organised with the Komplement things. * Blogger has now gone a bit mental, deleted the photos of our wardrobe and sofa and won't let me upload any more. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr *

we moved!

2009-03-20T12:14:00.002Z

that house that fell through that I was so bummed about?? we got it on the waiting list. Got told on the Wednesday that if we wanted it we'd have to move that weekend - less than 3 days to pack an entire house. and we have a lot of stuff! it was manic, a nightmare at times, but we're pretty settled, new carpets everywhere except our room which is being done tomorrow. a hell of a lot of stuff to unpack, but my expedit shelf is up, and the scrapping stuff is getting lovingly arranged :) loads of new furniture to arrive, so will be a few weeks yet til everything is unpacked, and then we need to decorate, but it feels like home. the cat has even started to venture outside!

have so much to catch up on for college, and so much to do here, so have to run xx

Too busy twittering

2009-02-21T14:44:00.004Z

Yep, thats a scary way to start a post! Not good with photos of me (except the ones Kirsty took of the wedding which I am totally in love with) so doing a self-portrait was somewhat of a challenge. Completely out of my comfort zone you could say. So I took an hour and 74 shots to get something which I can live with. OK so its a bit of a cheat - you can't really see me, but I felt like being a bit alternative and different :P

Half term has been interesting - Ruth turned 10 on Valentine's Day. She's had a massive growth spurt over the past 6 months (about 2 inches) and we got her feet measured and they'd grown more than a whole size. She'll have caught up with me soon - not hard though cos I'm a bit of a short-arse! We've been to the cinema twice - Secret of Moonacre (not as good as the book - never understand why they have to change the story), and Bolt which made Alex and me cry. Bolt is fantastic - trouble is now we want one!

Still addicted to Twitter, and now John is on it too (because of the new Call of Duty game which is in development, not because of me - he knows his priorities) its pretty much replaced any other method of communication.

Managed to finally upload photos to Moo and LOVE the mini cards. Took so long to upload the photos though :( About 3 hours for the 40 odd ones I managed. Damn wifi! Ordered some more and some stickers too though.

Its back to college, school and work on Monday. We're NOT looking forward to that I can tell you. Alex is already trying to come up with reasons why he can't go.

On a sad note, the move fell through. So we've been having to unpack which would have been bad enough in the new house, but having to do it still here was pretty heartbreaking. My lovely friend Laura said its because something better will come along, which I'm trying to hold on to. Normally I'm a very positive glass half full type person, but have to admit this really threw me for 6. As we can't afford a mortgage for even half what we'd need, its back to the waiting list.

SNOW!!!!!

2009-02-05T21:27:00.009Z

Somebody was happy to be out playing in the snow instead of at school! Can't believe she'll be 10 in just over a week - my baby!

The County Council shut all the schools in the county - snow day! John had to walk to work though which was a shame.

Gnorman the Gnome again (inspired by Amelie). Bit of a change from the last photo of him on the beach in the summer!
Gratuitous shoe shot.

I'd never seen ice crystals like the ones today - Alex said the snow was furry! Click on the photo for a better image.

Alex's ice alien - he was devastated when teenage boys used it as snowballs :( Cried his heart out.

Nearly Headless Jim - the snowman Ruth and i made. His head fell off but not before John got home and saw him.

We love snow! Hopefully another snow day tomorrow.

My new favourite things

2009-01-22T20:55:00.002Z

Trollbeads! I had been admiring the bracelets of people on UKS for about 18 months and discovered the other week that a jewellers in Worcester had started shopping them. So as I was working over the road from them last week, I decided to reward myself for finishing it by buying myself a bracelet, lock and 1 bead. Except I couldn't choose, so I got 2 (the 2 on the right). Then I searched on Etsy, and found this store which has the most amazing original beads, so I bought another 3. I LOVE my bracelet :)

Managed to get my essay in on time although I have no illusions as to its quality, at least it got finished on time. I have exams next week in Family Law, Criminal Procedure and Civil Litigation, so trying to revise, but its hard to get motivated.

My Studio Calico kit finally arrived yesterday, and is beautiful as always. Can't wait to have time to scrap again

Work Experience and exciting news!

2009-01-16T13:27:00.002Z

Yep this is where I have been working for the past week. In the Debt Recovery department no less. It wasn't like high school WE where all you do is file, make the tea and photocopy (although I did a little filing and photocopying, but no more than the regular staff). I got to go to a court hearing which was really interesting, a client meeting with the head of the department, lots of research for various solicitors, listing documents for disclosure, reading files, and filling in some documents - Statutory Demands, Application for Probate Search. It was VERY tiring, and there were days when I wasn't sure I could do it, but Simon (my boss for the week) said I had made a real impression, and was welcome back any time, so I think I did well :)

This has been a stressful week! As well as work experience, I have had an essay to write (still not finished it!), 3 exams to prepare for, my grandad had a fall on Sunday and has been in hospital (but is ok), Alex is ill, one of my best friends is having a really bad time, and I have been having trouble sleeping (got 2 hrs the night before I started work!). And stressful, but good news- it looks like we're moving! Got a phone call last week from a lady who has a 3 bed house thats too big now for her and her husband, so we went and had a look, and although the area isn't great, its lovely inside and has a nice garden. Had to have a massive tidy and clean here but they liked ours! So just have to get a few things fixed, and we should be able to sign the forms next week, and as long as the HA agree, will be moving in a month or so!!!! So much to do. Gonna use it as an opportunity for a massive clear out (at least a third of my books, all the craft stuff I don't use, toys the kids don't play with etc). After loving the house when they looked round, the kids cried when they found out - they've always lived here. It'll be good though. And they'll get their own rooms at long last.

Long time no blog.................

2008-12-23T21:16:00.007Z

It's been an ultra busy few weeks. Last weekend I had tonsillitis. Worst I've ever had it. Had an IT exam and a Civil Litigation oral assignment on Monday and Tuesday though, so had to drag myself in to college.

I was pretty much better by my birthday on Wednesday though. 28! Don't feel any older. On Thursday the 4 of us that made it to college, plus our teachers Debbie and Aidan went for a meal at lunch time. When we got back, Dan, Laura and I played Family Law charades (Debbie's idea - worked about as well as it sounds!), which was interesting.

Then I got ill again over this past weekend. Think it was because I didn't have a chance to rest and recover from the tonsillitis - that and I still have to run round after everyone else even when I'm at death's door myself. I have had the worst cold/flu the past few days that I've had in the past 10 years - the last time I felt this bad was when I was pregnant with Ruth. There were times then that I was actually delirious. Didn't get quite to that stage this time. So fed up of being ill though. Hoping I'll be better for Christmas. On the plus side I have lost weight on account of the fact that there have been days when I haven't been able to eat. Even fit into the jeans that I bought in the Next sale a while back but couldn't squeeze myself into.

Been enjoying taking photos of the Christmas decorations - the best of which is Pilchard of course! He looks so cute on the new white settee covers.

John's court case is finally sorted, and will all be over in a month, which means we can finally get our new sofa!

As I very much doubt that I'll be updating again in the next wee or so, have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year.

Forgetting to blog

2008-12-03T20:25:00.002Z

Although I check my blog most days for the blog feed to my faves, I forget to blog myself! Well that and the instant gratification of Twitter :)

Things have been non-stop as usual. College has been a lot harder this year - they're getting us ready for working in law. Have almost defiantly decided to do the degree part time (one day a week) in September. If I carry on getting mainly Distinctions ( have 3/3 so far this year, and an overall Distinction for Year 1) I can do it in 3 years instead of 4. We're having a talk about it tomorrow, so looking forward to that.

Finished the Christmas shopping for the kids today - mostly stocking fillers which was fun, but I have Sciatica ATM and its agony. First damaged the nerve when I slipped in the bath when pregnant with Alex, and every so often antagonise it. Hoping its better tomorrow, cos don't know how I'll manage to carry my folders, notes etc if not.

Have to do a 10-15 min lecture on Care Orders tomorrow, so better go and finish making my handout for the class.

A great day for the world

2008-11-05T14:04:00.002Z

I am proud of America today - defiantly the right decision. I have real hope that he will make a difference, not just to the USA, but to all of us. Loved his speech when he said that his girls will get their puppy! So cute! Just so sad his Grandmother didn't get to see this. I'm sure she's watching from heaven though.

So proud of my girl at the moment - she's in Year 5 at Primary school, and this year, all the years have been put into sets for Maths and English - and yesterday Ruth got moved from the 2nd to the highest set for English in the whole school. There is only one other boy from Year 5 in the class (he has been in with Year 6 for Maths and English since Year 3) - the rest are all Year 6. She said yesterday was the best day of her life - although 2 of her 'friends' said she was a goody-goody. Fortunately she realised they were just jealous.

On the flip side, Alex is still struggling - he hates being in the lowest set. He gets so frustrated, as his mind is far ahead of what he can actually get down on paper. Still waiting to hear if he will get tested for Dyslexia. Trying to get him to do lots of reading which he loves.

I'm fairly close to being finished with my assignments - just need to refine and rehearse my Plea in Mitigation.

Back in the saddle......

2008-10-27T20:25:00.005Z

3 years, 1 month and 1 day. That's how long it took for John to get back on a bike after his accident. And what a bike it is! He's hoping to race - can't wait to cheer him on from the sidelines. This is John and Alex going for that first ride.

Tonight is Studio Calico reveal night - Alex helpfully posed in a few masks for the Avatar challenge. He's really poorly at the moment (again, yes I know!). Oooh scary!!

Having a hard time at the moment, trying to deal with a situation with a friend. Doesn't seem to matter what any of us say, she keeps going back to someone who's hurting her. Physically as well as emotionally. She believes him when he says he's changed. Arrrggghhh!!!!!!! Going to try stopping advising, and just be there if she needs me. Feel selfish, but its really draining me, and I even cried at college last week -I NEVER cry in college.

My poorly baby

2008-10-20T21:01:00.002+01:00

Last Sunday, Alex was suddenly sick several times. Although he seemed better the next day, the school has a policy that the children can not go back within 24 hours, so we stayed at home. The next day John took him to school and he burst intotears - not like him at all, obviously under the weather, so the teacher said to take him home. Over the past week he has been up and down - no real appetite (but then when does he ever eat properly??), but not really ill as such. But then as he was playing on the Xbox 360 this evening, he had a nasty accident - at first we thought it was him ignoring the fact that he needed to go, ashe was so engrossed in the game (this happened a few days ago, to rather unpleasant consequences for me. TMI I think!). But e got him upsatirs, and hte poor baby has diahorrea. How I managed not to throw up as I cleaned him and the clothes, chair etc I do not know. So tomorrow we have aother 24 hours from school starting. Trouble is I was supposed to be having a lesson with the head of the Law school, and Alex was supposed to be going to the cinema with school - he's heartbroken!

Magazine Karma

2008-10-11T11:46:00.005+01:00

Yesterday was good, but tiring! Went with my lovely husband to a Bike Expo at Earls' Court. We went down on the train, in one of the quiet carriages so it was relaxed. Relaxed that is, until I noticed the man in the seat behind me making strange deep breathing (think psycho on the phone just before breaking into your house to murder you type of thing) noises. These then turned to him chanting -loudly, yet under his breath if you can imagine that- something which I think was the Alleluia chorus. I was honestly too scared to ask him to be quiet in case he stabbed me or something! Another man on the carriage kept standing up trying to see where the noise was coming from, but the nutter was bending over so he didn't see him. John said he thought the nutter was chanting some kind of spell in Latin or something. Seriously weird!

I read Heat on the way down - I love a bit of eat for mindless gossip - great for on the train. I'd read it cover to cover by the time we got to Paddington, so I though I'd leave it on the train for the next person to read - wondered aloud if this would bring me magazine karma......

The underground to Earl's Court wasn't too bad, and the expo was great - John got to try a bike out, which he's fairly sure he's going to buy. He got some cycling clothes too (looks really hot in them!). I liked some of the ladies things on the Specialized stand - really pretty purple and black helmet, shoes and gloves, made me want to take up cycling myself! Then, on the stand that had the bike John wants, I spotted this -

It's the same colour as my bridesmaids' dresses were - so pretty! At £600, I thought it was far too expensive for me, but DH says that you shouldn't buy a road bike that coasts less than £500, and if he buys one of the 2008 Felt bikes, rather than waiting a few months for the 2009 ones of the same spec, he'll save £600 - perfect!

As we were walking past the Felt stand for the umpteenth time, I felt someone mess up my hair - unsurprisingly, this made me jump - especially as when I looked round, there was no one there. Then (after about 30 seconds - doh!), I realised the mannequin on the podium was actually a living statue! It was VERY funny, but scared me half to death!

We then went to Oxford Street, as I was desperate to get the new Ipod Nano, having seen the purple one in the new tv ad. Getting there on the underground was horrible - sweltering, packed, stressful. A very small lady was left with only the high rail to grab (which she couldn't reach properly), so I made space for her to stand between me and DH so she could hold the vertical rail - she looked so pleased and surprised - didn't realise that being considerate wasn't the done thing on the tube.

Oxford Street - hmmmm. Like many women, I'd always thought that I'd do well in London - all those great shops, and I do fine dodging pedestrians in Worcester - our local city where I go to college. People just walked at me in London - it was like I was invisible! Didn't like it AT ALL, but it did me appreciate how nice Worcester is - I don't feel like I'm at constant risk of being trampled underfoot, blown up or mugged, and the shops are pretty good - and I'd know my way around blindfolded!

I got the Ipod though! The 16GB was out of stock in purple, so I got the 8GB - probably won't fill that anyway. It's so pretty!

In the train on the way home, a lady sat down at the table opposite us - then she put her bag in the overhead compartment - in the process, knocking a 500ml bottle of water from the ceiling of the train on to my arm - it hurt so much it made me cry - but she didn't even apologise! I didn't tell DH until she got off the train, as I thought he might make a scene. Then she left her rubbish on the table. I was not impressed! The man sitting opposite us however, was really nice. DH was telling me about a story he'd seen about a lady being helped by a random stranger on a train, which nearly got him arrested, and the man opposite us gave me his newspaper to read it, and said we could keep it - so the magazine karma worked - maybe you should give it a try!?

Got a weekend of homework now - gotta draft a Particulars of Claim, and do a problem question on Divorce, and putting my music library onto my Ipod. And its lovely and sunny, and my dehydration headache from yesterday is wearing of, so I'm happy, happy, happy.

Oh, and best of all, my Studio Calico kit came last night, and I LOVE it!

Tired

2008-10-06T21:08:00.002+01:00

Trying hard not to let things get on top of me. College is a struggle - not the work, just the actual getting there and staying awake all day! Hopefully I'll be over this glandular virus soon, and then I'll start feeling better.

Need to lose weight. Wanting to join Weight Watchers, as I think the meetings would help to keep me motivated, but not sure I can justify the cost. Might just buy some Slim Fast stuff and go it alone for a few weeks and see what happens. I'm only a lb. or 2 away from the top of my healthy range for my height, so need to start sorting this out soon. Trouble is that I'll miss junk food too much :( Ah well - would be nice to look ok in a suit again.

I know now how to sue people - know the academic stuff from last year, but we're doing the actual filling in forms ATM - quite a cool feeling to know that I could start a claim myself if I wanted.

My sister's fiance had an accident during a cycling race on Saturday night - hit a wall at 35mph and fell back onto steps - really nasty, and A&E are being absolutely awful - bordering on negligent if you ask me. He was going back again this afternoon so hopefully he'll get some answers.

Up at 5.45am again tomorrow, and Im feeling exhausted, so better go have a cuppa then off to bed.

Busy busy busy (again)

2008-09-21T18:25:00.008+01:00

Had a bit of a revelation today - sometimes I'm so busy looking for photo opportunities when we're out that I forget to actually look at what's around me, and appreciate the time with my family. So today I deliberately left my camera at home when we went for a walk and to re-visit a geocache to drop off a travelbug. And it was great. Well, Ruth did her usual moaning, but other than that, it was a great time in lovely weather (whats with that?!).

Yesterday we went to the open day at a local archaeological dig, which was quite interesting (and messy). Got a speck of dirt on my lens, which I didn't realise til I uploaded the photos :(

I am quite pleased with myself - managed 3 LOs in 2 days! That's rather good for me. They're done using the Principles from Kirsty's course that I'm doing. Haven't had time to photograph them yet, but here's a few photos that use the principles:

Rule of Thirds:

Continuance:

Bah humbug

2008-09-14T21:35:00.002+01:00

Ok, so in the grand scheme of things (especially considering Aleida's tragic death on Friday), this is such a trivial thing, but has made me feel miserable. On top of the insecurity dream I had last night especially (your typical husband leaving you for someone else kinda thing, where you wake up, and can't quite believe they're still there next to you), making me feel well and truely shit.

OK, so here's what happened - I had been looking foward to getting some new clothes for a looonnnggg time - some notion that a new wardrobe would make me magically look like I'd lost the stone I've been struggling with all summer. Well of course, all the lovely clothes I'd had my eye on made me look WORSE! And the boots I waned wouldn't even do up (cue me all red in the face struggling while some young -male- shop assistant looks on, in amusement). I'm sure I'll look back on it and laugh all too soon, but at the moment I just feel humiliated and fat :(

College is, um, interesting. Very tiring. My timetable was changed, so I had to change the childcare arrangements, which went down REALLY well with Alex in particular. IT skills is really hard. I guess I'm a bit spoiled in that I found everything last year quite easy, but I struggle with this module. I hate that. Being a perfectionist isn't easy!

Not AWOL

2008-09-07T13:46:00.003+01:00

Just v. busy - got the Twilight books on Thursday - on book 3 now - loving them sooo much, got college starting tomorrow, kids went back to school Thursday, and discovered the joys of Twitter - I'll be updating my blog that way for a while probably until I get into the swing of my new routine.

Also, Kirsty's new class starts today, so I'll be busy keeping up with that too :)

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside.....

2008-08-30T12:56:00.006+01:00

This was the view as we started down the LOOOONNNNGGGGG path down to Rhossili Beach.

Ruth and Alex looking relieved and happy after we finally found the geocache we'd been searching for for hours (well thats what it felt like!)

Gnorman the Gnome at Rhossili - a tribute to the film Amelie.

Alex with the beach to himself - well it was pretty quiet when we got there. Got busier later on though. Love the reflection in this photo.

Worm's Head. It really does look like a dragon sticking its snout in the air from the beach.

After getting up at 6am and leaving at 7.30, we arrived at the beach around 11am. We had a walk first (its a really big beach), then settled down for digging, and playing in the sea. Even though it was overcast it was quite warm, and John and I managed to burn. WE had a lovely day, even fitting in a bit of geocaching. We got home about 11.30pm, absolutely shattered, but having had a lovely day. Really liked the Swansea/Gower area - trying to persuade everone we should live there!

Mini Album No.1

2008-08-26T16:12:00.011+01:00

When I first opened the packaging of the acrylic Papermania album, I was a bit confused by its green colour - but this was just a protective film, which came off fairly easily. They will be retailing for RRP £9.99 for the 6 page acrylic version - maybe this might seem a bit steep, but the pages are really thick, and I love the shape - defiantly worth it in my opinion.

As you can see, I made the book to document Ruth being the flower girl at our wedding. The shape of the pages immediately made me think of flowers, and I'd been planning on making her a mini book with the photos for a while.

I really enjoyed working with the album, and used BasicGrey Euphoria papers, Bazzil Cardstock, Anita's Acrylic Paint, various ribbons, Heidi Swapp Ghost Shapes, Prima Flowers, Stickles and Kaiser Craft Rhinestones. I loved how it came out.

Off to craft group tonight, but will get to work on the chipboard album soon - planning on making a Best Boy album with the photos of Alex from the wedding.

My baby is 7!!!!!

2008-08-21T21:22:00.012+01:00

And so handsome! Can't believe he's 7 already. He has been perfectly behaved today - so proud of him. His current favourite toys are Lego, and almost half of his presents were Lego. The one he'd wanted most was the Lego Fire Station, and had great fun putting it together with Daddy.

The smoking gun - well candle anyway.
For his birthday treat we went to Goodrich Castle (one of my favourite places as a child) to watch a sword fighting demonstration. Alex bought himself a wooden sword with his birthday money, and made a great friend in the more convincing of the 2 knights.

Very proud of this girl - she is scared of heights, and not at all adventurous, but climbed the tallest tower, with a really scary spiral stone staircase with only a rope to hold onto (and at times in almost total darkness) - I was scared, so she did so well. Hope she's proud of herself for overcoming her fear too.

This is a view of that tower from the moat....

...and this is the view from the top.

This was Alex trying on his favourite knights helmet (check out his badge - he loved that total strangers were wishing him Happy Birthday, as he'd never say anything himself).

My favourite view of the castle from the path leading to it.

And got this fabulous parcel today with goodies to blog test for Do Crafts. Yum! Got some great ideas - its so great having amazing wedding photos to scrap :)

Ahhhhhhhhhhh

2008-08-15T21:47:00.005+01:00

My best friend Harriet and I have gone through some tough times together. We were both teenage parents (17/18 - not 14 or something!) and have overcome some serious stuff. She's one of those people who although I don't see her as often as I'd like, we always pick up exactly where we left off. In fact she's more like a sister really. I can tell her anything and she'll never judge me. I know she'll always be there for me, and I hope she feels the same about me.

She gave birth to her 2nd son last weekend, and Ruth, Alex and I popped in on Monday to meet him, and drop off a couple of little presents. They are such a beautiful family. So proud to call them my friends. Josh, her eldest son is just a couple of weeks older than Ruth, and a credit to his Mum.

Love the yawn photo! Why is it so endearing?? Maybe because such a tiny baby can have such a huge yawn. Love baby yawning photos :)

Made a few things today - a clear mini book called 'its all in the details' with all the detail photos from the wedding, and another LO. On a bit of a roll now.

It was Grandad and Grandma's 60th wedding anniversary yesterday, so we're all going up there for lunch. It'll be the first time they've seen the wedding photos of John and I, so I'm looking forward to that.

Please sign this petition if you have a moment.

2008-08-12T15:33:00.000+01:00

RMH Haslar is set to close, but is still operational and could be made into a great home for our injured service personnel.
Some background:
'2 Para' alone have on their current tour sent back over 50 casualties to the UK, and even that many cannot be accommodated at Selly Oak Hospital. So when all of the casualties from other battle groups are added to this figure, how is ONE ward in ONE NHS hospital going to cope?
It cannot.
And as a result the individual troops are sent home to recover relying on NHS visiting services which themselves are over committed.
We need a dedicated military hospital if servicemen and servicewomen, who have been committed to hostilities and injured, are to get the medical care they rightly deserve.

A lot more than 5000 names are needed for this petition to survive, and quite cynically, Downing Street has put a time limit of one month - during the summer holidays - for this to be achieved. Please support it - please copy the link below to confirm your signature on the petition.

Please forward this email to as many people as you can.
Thanks.
Go to http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Wounded/ - it takes 1 minute to fill the form

The petition was created by Denzil Connick and reads: 'We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to Create a dedicated Military & Veterans Hospital within the UK.'

Life's lessons can come in strange ways

2008-08-11T10:42:00.002+01:00

Yesterday we were asked to look into a house swap (Housing Association) with another family - they want a 2 bed, we want a 3 bed - perfect. Or so you'd think. Firstly the house is on the 'quiet end' of the most notorious road in our town (although to be fair, we love in such a wonderful place, its better than most others). It was also mid terrace - not the end of the world, but I've always lived in semis. It was rendered in grey concrete stuff too. No actual car parking, and the front door is a long way down an alley, so the back garden was turned into a drive. Ok fair enough, not a good start, but we really NEED a bigger house, so I was prepared to go in and if it was ok, we'd consider it. Bear in mind that after I got the phone cal, I spent every waking hour (about 12) cleaning and tidying for them to look round, and my house wasn't that bad to start with.

Was a bit surprised when we got there and all the curtains were shut. The entire house. There was stuff everywhere. Walls bright red, kitchen falling off the wall, stuff soaking in the bath, and generally grimy. The people were nice though. Just couldn't understand why you wouldn't at least try and make the house look its best to try and persuade people to swap with you.

But it taught us an important lesson - yes, our house may be too small for the 4 of us, and there are things that could be a lot better, but OMG they could be SO much worse. We got home to our light, clean(ish), tidy(ish) house, and realised how lucky we are. We love our house.

I think the whole experience was worth it for us to realise how lucky we are.

And my Studio Calico kit just arrive, and I'm about to go an see my best friends new baby, so I'm feeling pretty good about the world right now.

Been trying to teach Ruth about counting her blessings, and seems like doing the same has really shone a light in here :)

Wii got one....

2008-08-03T17:18:00.002+01:00

A Wii Fit that is. It arrived on Friday, to great delight. I was very pleased when it told me my weight/BMI were ideal, until it told me I needed to loose a stone, (the cheek of it!) as I was a fraction away from the line between ideal and overweight. Fine, I thought, I'll stop snacking between meals, and do at least 30 mins on the Wii Fit a day. So I did - and I've been gaining weight!!! How is that possible?! John, who is slap bang in the middle of ideal decided to loose 4 lbs to be absolutely perfect, and has already lost 3. Grrrrrrrr.

I will persevere though. Even though I feel hungry all the time and am craving chocolate.

Managed to finish the LO I started at Kirsty's on Wednesday - honestly, I'm not really the worlds slowest scrapper, I just had a really good idea for the title letters, which took me a while to pull together.

I've got to the stage at the moment, where I'm loving all the LOs etc that I do - a pleasant change for me.

Right, back off to check the roast potatoes (and yes, I do realise that they don't really help when you're trying to loose weight).

Looonnnggg journey (well for us)

2008-07-31T22:52:00.002+01:00

We have just had the BEST few days with our wonderful friend Kirsty. The kids love her, and her puppy Eddy, who we had to practically tear them away from. Alex especially bonded with him, and was heartbroken to leave him. They would have smuggled him home in their bags if they could have. And to be honest, so would I. He is the most adorable dog I have ever met. I've been thinking of getting a puppy for a while, but was worried that Alex is too young to be sensible with one, but they were so good for each other. Alex's laughter when they were chasing each other round the house and garden was wonderful. They had fun playing on the Wii Fit too, and we got home to find that ours should arrive tomorrow - whoohoo!

Actually the journey up was pretty good - took about 2 1/2 hours including petrol and toilet stops, and the journey back wasn't terrible even though some of it was in rush hour. Took about 3 hours I think.

We did miss John and Pilchard though, but I think you appreciate people (and cats) more when you spend time apart occasionally.

Kirsty took some beautiful photos of the kids, and we picked up our amazing wedding photos. They are so beautiful, and I just can't believe its me in them!

Kirsty introduced us to the wonders of the Range - OMG how can I have lived to 27 (and a half) without ever setting foot in there!!??. I got a few frames for the wedding photos and scrapbook pages. Will defiantly be going back there.

Have a mountain of housework to catch up on now (don't remember the house looking like this when we went away, but guess it must have done), and a load of photos to scrap (yay!) so better be getting off to bed so I'm full of energy for tomorrow. And the delivery of the Wii Fit is any time from 7am-7pm, so we'll have to stay in all day til it arrives. Sure there'll be lots of amusing photos once its set up :)

Hot, hot, hot!!!

2008-07-27T21:17:00.002+01:00

It has been soooo hot here the past few days. I'm really not good with heat - have to be careful as I burn and get heat stroke. Fortunately, our living room is fairly cool though. Haven't done much this weekend as its been too hot to do much other than sit with feet in the kids paddling pool!

On Tuesday we went up British Camp to fly the new kite. Alex had such fun that he wouldn't give anyone else a go! I love that hill - its has such an amazing history.

Have a few good things coming up in the next month - best friends' baby is due in a few days (so excited!!), visiting wonderful friends, my Grandma and Grandad's 60h wedding anniversary, Alex's 7th birthday to name but a few.

Teaching quilling at craft group on Tuesday, so must get on and make some samples - so hard when its so hot though!

Look what I found!!!!

2008-07-21T13:45:00.002+01:00

How amazing is this! Was walking past Oxfam on Friday evening and spotted it the window. Of course immediately fell madly in love, but had no time to go in the shop, so spent the next 12 hours or so thinking of little else, until we took John to work the next morning, and I could go and see if they still had it. They did, and it only cost £19.99! Mum bought it for me as a present, as she knew how much I love things like this. Been trying to work out the manufacturer, but there is no makers mark, and the plate that is just by the foot is so worn you can only make out '_(illegible) SEWING MACHINE CO _______(illegible) TOWN LONDON' I have seen an almost identical one, just with slightly different patterns, and its made by Frister and Rossmann around 1878. It may not be, but its the closest I've found. If anyone happens to know any experts in antique sewing machines who might be able to identify it and give me tips on cleaning/restoration, it'd be greatly appreciated.

We went back to the Worcester Woods yesterday, and even though we forgot the GPS thingy (doh!), we managed to find the cache that had eluded us last time. Had a lovely walk around the woods with the kids too. It was a shame that John was working though.

Oh, nearly forgot - my LO is in SI!!! It arrived this morning, and had a quick flick through with trembling fingers - wonder if you ever get used to it? Only my second LO to be published though. It's the one with the cute blue car if you're interested. Will take a photo and upload when I've got a bit more time.

Shortly After The Dream, The Mountains Breathed Out A Morning GlowAcross The Still Surface Of A Murky Glacial Lake

2008-07-18T12:47:00.002+01:00

Shortly After The Dream, The Mountains Breathed Out A Morning Glow Across The Still Surface Of A Murky Glacial Lake
Originally uploaded by Peter from Wellington

OMG this makes me feel so homesick!!! Found this amazing photo on Flickr, of the jetty at Lake Rotoiti, where I lived in New Zealand. I would jump on a plane and go back right now if I could. Just need to persuade the rest of the family!

Normal service has been resumed

2008-07-18T11:29:00.004+01:00

I had killer PMT, post-wedding blues, and general urrgghh-ness (yes that is a real word - I just invented it). Much better now, thanks to my wonderful friends Kirsty and Harriet (sorry for being neurotic guys!).

Speaking of Harriet - OMG 2 weeks left til her due date!!!!! She is looking AMazing. Sooooo good. Can't wait to meet her baby. They've been told its probably a boy, but you can never be 100%. Looking forward to taking some gorgeous photos for her. Makes me feel a bit broody, but then I remember what they're like when they grow up!

Yet another sports day on Tuesday. Having gone to Alex's with John last week, was very supriesed to see Alex's class joining in with the Junior's one too. Fortunatley took my 70-300mm lens, so although I got some funny looks and comment, managed to get photos of them when they were at opposite ends of the field. This one of Alex was taken from 200m away or so, so its not amazing quality. (Building work in the background is some kind of reorganisation of the car park, field and juniors playground - no idea what they're doing, but its very noisy and dusty!) Love this photo of Ruth - check out that toungue! She was scraed of the hurdles, as last year she tripped over them and hurt her leg. This year she managed to get over all of them, as did Alex, which is amazing, as he's quite tiny.

Feeling s**tty

2008-07-14T22:02:00.002+01:00

I guess I have the post wedding blues or something, as life is still pretty good really, but I feel really down. Maybe its the lack of routine with being broken up from college - I have no energy or motivation to do anything, and just feel miserable. Must be terrible company.

Got my confirmation of a place on Year 2 of the HND - got 5 Distinctions and 3 Merits for Y1, which wasn't bad. Will try for all Distinctions in Y2 though.

A lovely day

2008-07-13T21:17:00.007+01:00

at Nunnery Wood. The woods were lovely and peaceful, although the picnin and kids play areas were very crowded! Alex loved the monkey bars. He'd never managed them before, as he's quite small, but got the knack of it today. After a couple of tries, he made it all the way across with me taking photos. Then he had to go all the way across to show Daddy, which took a while, and by the time he wanted to show Ruth, he was exhausted and his hands hurt, but he wouldn't give up until he'd managed it.

Check out the determination on that face!

Got there!
He was so proud of himself, but had to have a nap when he got home as he was so tired.

Ruth enjoyed the swings - love this action shot. The first I took of her swinging, and it came out the best :)

There is a story behind these apples - we had had a small bushy tree growing in our front garden since we moved in 9 years ago, and always thought it was some knid of weed, and meant to take it out, except that it provides a bit of privacy from the road. Then last year we looked up, and there were 3 small apples right near the top. We were so suprised that we thought someone had stuck them there as a joke, but this year we have 20+, and October Afternoon have the most beautiful apple paper that I got in the June SC kit, so I can't wait to scrap the photos - yay!

Off for a cup of tea and some Jammie Dodgers - my waistline is screaming at me to stop, but they're just too yummy.

Nostalgia

2008-07-09T10:43:00.002+01:00

Done a thorough clear out of the kids drawers this morning - had been long over due as there were things long out grown in there, and their new summer outfits couldn't fit in! It was a real eye opener. Some of Alex's clothes that I cleared out from when he was a little boy, before he started school - made me feel quite sad. They're both growing so fast. Most noticeable was the change in colours and styles - Alex's old clothes were mostly in shades of blues and a few pale greens, from when I used to pick everything. Now he chooses his clothes, its all camouflage and the related colours, and everything has skulls! Ruth has gone from lots of fairies to rock chick - she's really getting into that pre-teen phase now.

Managed another LO yesterday - on a bit of a roll. Not going to post it though, as I'm considering entering a few contests this summer. No chance in hell of winning, but nothing ventured, nothing gained I suppose.

Iron Maiden @ Twickenham

2008-07-08T11:59:00.002+01:00

This was our view from the very top of the stadium. It was an amazing concert. First time I'd seen Bruce, although I saw them 10 years ago with Blaze singing. John has been a massive fan since he was about 12, so it was a dream come true to see them play a stadium, especially as they played the songs he'd wanted to hear.

Getting there wasn't the most fun - it was supposed to take just over 2 hours, but the traffic round Heathrow was awful, and it took about an hour to go 2 miles! Having left home about 12.30, we reached the stadium just after 4.30pm. The gig finished at 10.15pm, and it took us an hour to get out of the school playground that was used as a car park. Then we got lost getting back to the M4, which isn't fun at 11.45pm in almost central London! We got there eventually, and I drove for a while, but was struggling to keep my eyes open - just couldn't focus. Fortunately John was wide awake, and drove the rest of the way, and we got home at 3.10am. So we've been a bit tired this weekend.

OMG how good was Dr Who?! I must have cried for about the last 20 mins. Such a good end to the series, and although I didn't like Catherine Tate before, she became my favourite of all the companions. Wonder who will be in the Christmas special. Glad David Tennant is still the Doctor - he's so lovely - and looks a bit like John too :)

Been altering some tops this morning. Bought them with the intention to embellish months ago, and Gok's Fashion Fix inspired me to have a go. Love that program - ok the utfits he makes aren't exactly my cup of tea, but the ideas he has are what he does is amazing.

Drastic hair cut alert!!!

2008-07-03T11:00:00.008+01:00

BEFORE

AFTER

So whatcha think?? Nice comments only please :) I LOVE it!! Been planning it for a year, but wanted long hair in the wedding photos, so waited til after. Will scrap the photos later of course.

Feeling a bit down this week - been a bit under the weather and don't suit being at home all the time - really need to be at college I think. Only another 2 and a bit months to go! Thought I'd enjoy the scrapping time, but just scared to start anything in case its rubbish and puts me off even more.

Got an appointment to see our housing officer next week - desperately need a 3 bed house, so fingers crossed it goes well.

This is the Star Book I made with the photos from Kirsty's blog using PaulaP's instructions from SI. Took it into the hairdressers and they couldn't believe I'd made it, and were telling me I should sell them, which made me feel good.

This is a LO I did with the June Studio Calico kit.
Quite simple, but loved the photos, so waned to keep the emphasis on them.

Friday 13th

2008-06-13T12:16:00.005+01:00

This is my Dad's favourite photo that he took at the wedding - he took it into work to show all his work colleagues.

I'm going to the cinema with my little sister tonight to see Sex and the City!! Yay!! Been looking forward to this for so long, and my lovely friend Laura gave me 2 tickets, so we don't need to pay either. Very happy!

John and I have managed to finalise the 75 photos we want from our official ones - was really hard to cut the others out though. Can't wait to start scrapbooking them. I uploaded 116 photos taken by family and friends of the wedding, and the photos we took on honeymoon, so they should come from Truprint either tomorrow or Monday.

Sitting waiting for the post man each day now, as Studio Calico kits have started to arrive over here. Mine will be a bit delayed because of the add on we luckily got in the second wave. So hard to wait!

Such a perfect day

2008-06-06T21:05:00.010+01:00

Everything about our wedding day was perfect. Even the weather! I actually felt beautiful for the first time in my life. If you want to see some of the official photos, look at Kirsty's blog - the photos are so amazing, keep looking at them and can't believe they're ours. She is such an amazing photographer - really captures the essence of people. And she is one of the nicest people I've ever met. So on top of the amazing day, I have made a wonderful friend - thank you for sharing our day with us! I've always hated having my photo taken, and hate looking at photos of me, but I was floating on air all day, and think that shows. We cried when we saw the photos (and during the ceremony, during the speeches etc etc).

Me, Rosie and Ruth leaving the house for the wedding.

John and I in the wedding car.

After the reception John and I went to Thornbury Castle where we stayed for 2 night. Just the most wonderful and beautiful place imaginable. Could have stayed there forever.

John at Thornbury Castle.

Me at Thornbury Castle.

Our tower - our room is the one with the window open.

Had a great week at college too - 2 exams (that wasn't good), but managed 86% in Land Law when I hadn't been able to revise at all, my tutor told me I should do LLB fast-track when I finish the HND, and have worked out that whatever I get in my final Tort exam, I will still have an overall distinction - even if I only scrape a pass.

This tower is over the road from college - walk past it every day, and didn't realise til the day before my last day that there is a family of Peregrines living there!

Took these photos with my longest zoom lens- just wish it went that little bit further!

Mum and Dad on top of parapets, and fledgling slightly lower. Such a joy to see.

So all in all I have had a pretty perfect week - and to top it all off, Scarlett and April at Studio Calico managed to get me the Picket Fence add on I missed out on, and managed to get the most amazing deal on my new mobile, getting Orange to knock £100 off the price of my upgrade even though I'm on the lowest tariff. Makes me think that someones been looking out for us - like we've had 10 years of good luck built up for us, and all released in to one week.

Hope life is treating all of you well x

Nearly a wife

2008-05-26T12:31:00.002+01:00

I was thinking yesterday how I'm going to miss being engaged. That might sound strange to some people - the whole point of being engaged is that you are getting married, but I've been so busy with college and planning the wedding that I haven't had time to appreciate just BEING engaged. That makes me feel sad.

5 days left now, and I've been flat out cleaning and tidying since Friday. Have 3 exams to prepare for for next week too. You're supposed to take it easy in the days before your wedding so you look at your best - chance would be a fine thing! Would be great if I had another couple of weeks to get everything ready. You can tell my head isn't screwed on right at the moment. I'm one of the most organised people you'll ever meet, and am never late. On Friday I got the time of my facial muddled up, and they phoned me at 10.45 to see where I was a sit was at 10.30 - I was convinced it was 11.30. Checked calender and no, it was 10.30. Got there as fast as I could, and arrived just after 11, so had an 'express facial'! Then at midnight I suddenly had a horrible thought that I'd forgotten to take my pill, raced downstairs and took it, thinking that it would mess up our honeymoon, then got up the next morning to find that I HAD taken it when I should. And then a 2nd at midnight. Then another at 6am! Hardly surprising I'm in a state when I have so much progesterone and oestrogen in my system! Then got John up to be at work for 7am as usual, forgetting it was bank holiday so he started an hour later. There are other examples, but my head is such a sieve that I can't remember at the moment!

Might not have time to blog again until the weekend after the wedding because of the wedding (obviously!) and exams. Hopefully by then I'll have photos to share.

(Positive thoughts for nice weather on Saturday would be very much appreciated!)

A chance to breathe....

2008-05-22T20:54:00.006+01:00

.... at least for a few days! In the past week I have had a Criminal Law exam and a Miscarriage of Justice presentation. Its been so hectic! Haven't had chance to get nervous about the wedding, which is only 9 days away!

Found out I got 86% in a Legal Profession exam a few weeks back, and was so pleased! My aim for the year was to get one 80%, and thought it wasn't completely unreasonable as I'd had lots of 70+, with the highest being 77%, so am happy now!

I have 3 exams the week I get back from honeymoon, so obviously am not going to be revising during the wedding or honeymoon, so won't get my hopes up too much for them.

Photos!

2008-05-06T18:29:00.005+01:00

Final dress fitting - 3 1/2 weeks to go!

Mock trial - the cast (Dan - defendant, Emma - witness, Me - prosecution solicitor, Laura - judge, Jannick - defence solicitor, James - witness).

Me on far right of photo.

Me - with a silly smile!

My idea of Heaven!

2008-05-02T10:52:00.011+01:00

I love bluebells. Always try and get the chance to photograph them each year. Last year I was really pleased with my photos - especially as they were taken with the 3.2 mp camera on my mobile. This year I have my wonderful Canon D400. Love that camera soooo much.

In the fields behind the kids school there is a hill and wood full of bluebells. After I dropped them off, I spent half an hour alone there with my camera (apart from a few dog walkers). The hill was looking a bit sorry for itself this year - think the weather had made it a bit difficult for them to grow.

But this wood was beautiful. Got some very funny looks from people walking their dogs (especially when I was crouching down in a stream to take photos!), but got some photos I'm really happy with.

I love photography. Really must read the camera manual so I can start using all the settings rather than just the pre-set ones! I was saying to John the other day that I wished I could have a job where all I did was travel the world taking photos of things that I think are beautiful and inspiring. Maybe when I'm rich!

College has been better this week. I have been quite ill with a terrible cold, but struggled through.

Final dress fitting tomorrow. The wedding is THIS MONTH!! Four weeks tomorrow in fact. It does scare me that its gone so fast that I really haven't had much time to enjoy the preparations like I wanted to. Its just been stressful really.

But I am looking forward to having all the photos to scrap and make into mini books.

I have been doing a bit of scrapping this month - its so hard to find the time and energy though. I spend all day at college longing to be playing with my stash of scrapping loveliness, then by the time I've got home, sorted the tea, washed up, put the kids to bed etc, I'm too tired to do anything other than fall asleep on the sofa.

Can't remember whether I'd mentioned that I got a puncture on Monday. Cost £137.50 for a new tire (big fat Bridgestone's - trouble with having the Sporting model!). Really not what we need so close to the wedding.

Got this weekend bag yesterday. Its really lovely. Can't wait to pack it for honeymoon!

One month to go!!

2008-04-30T10:07:00.002+01:00

That's like no time at all!! Have a stinking cold ATM, but am looking forward to that lovely feeling when you wake up and realise you're better and feel alive and wonderful again.

Had good day yesterday even though was ill and dosed up to the eyeballs on Sudafed.

Had college trip to Magistrate's Court - very interesting. Then had class rep meeting with HND Law year 2 rep, head of Law School (Barrister, text book author, eccentric and all round lovely man), head of HND, one of our lecturers and one of the year 2 lecturers. Went well - only had 18 hours notice, so managed to make some good points with little preparation. Think made good impression, which is always good!

After disappointment of Criminal Law assessment, hadn't got my hopes up at all for the Land Law essay - its a really hard subject (not just me saying that - all the lecturers always saying). But got it back at the end of yesterday, and had a Distinction (72%), so really pleased. Found out that Jannick beat me on the Criminal one - he got 66 to my 63, and I actually didn't mind. I like him, and he deserved it.

Craft group last night - new venue was great, even if we did run out of tables we had so many people there! Jo showed us Angel Fibres - so pretty had to buy some, and managed to get a LO pretty much finishd with the last RVA kit.

Why does the spell checker not check the title?

2008-04-28T05:31:00.002+01:00

No, I have no idea either. The last post was entitled Dedication incidentally.

Managed to drag myself out of bed at an ungodly hour to get the Studio Calico kit - managed to get nearly all of the add ons too, so v. happy. Not sure I slept though - was alarm watching all night so I didn't wake everyone up. Think John understands as he gets up even earlier to watch the F1 when its in Australia and Japan etc.

Had a rubbish week. Alex's behaviour has been terrible, and John has been stressed so shouting back - not good. Spent the entire weekend sorting and tidying the kids room. The amount of rubbish in there was obscene. Wonder how long it'll stay tidy....

Wedding in just over 4 weeks (WTF!!!). On Wednesday it'll be a month to go, and on Thursday I'll be able to say I'm getting married THIS MONTH!

Dedication/obsession??!!

2008-04-27T16:44:00.005+01:00

Tomorrow I will be getting up at 4.45am - why you ask? Because the new Studio Calico kit is out then. Can't wait. I've loved April's so much, and determined to get the add ons this month. So I will be very bleary eyed for the rest of the day!

Have to go and return a load of stuff later in the day - I hate that. Like they're looking at you thinking you must be really fat. Although the suit was actually too big (which made me feel good as I'd bought a 12). The underwear was supposed to be for the honeymoon - guess I'd better subject myself to the mortification of being measured like they said I needed too. Apparently I wear too big a chest size and too small a cup size. But if I wear a 32" I can't breath!

Bridesmaids dress

2008-04-21T17:18:00.005+01:00

Flash is awful in the second photo, but left it in as its closer to the colour of the material.

My sister is so gorgeous - makes you sick! She's 6' (I'm not quite 5'4"), and looks like a model. At least with my wedding shoes I'm a good 4"+ taller than usual!

The dress fitted almost perfectly. No need for alterations, which is good, as the money is flowing out now!

Managed to get confused and have missed our banns being read, so our lovely vicar is going to read them for us again a week on Sunday so we get to hear them.

Back to college tomorrow - hopefully will get my results for the oral assignment. Not too bothered about Land Law, but Criminal Law is the area I want to work in, so a lot rides on it.

Another assessment

2008-04-18T18:24:00.002+01:00

This time for Criminal Law - we had to advise a client in a police station on their liability for murder. Don't worry, it wasn't a real murderer! It was Aidan pretending (sorry acting), while Kate wrote lots of notes. Went really well. I had memorised everything, but then was a bit nervous and kept checking my notes, but only a glance now and then to keep me on track. I'm hoping I've done well. This one was important for me as its what I want to do in a few years time.

Have some great photos of me from when I was younger that I want to scrap - and some lovely kits to use!

Do you know The Secret?

2008-04-14T14:37:00.003+01:00

I suffered from terrible depression from as early as I can remember until I was in my early 20s. Then one day I woke up and thought 'I deserve better.' I refused to let it get the better of me, and from then on, I became a positive person. I could always see the positive aspects in any situation. And things went my way - it was as if I always fell on my feet.

Then I started getting stressed with college, the wedding etc, and lost that feeling. I remembered reading on Kirsty's blog about The Secret, and when I spotted the book on a lunch break trip to WHSmiths, I had to get it.

Started reading it, and ok some of it is a bit 'American' but a lot of it makes sense. I'm back to my usual happy positive self, and focusing on the good stuff.

If you haven't read it, Google it and see what you think - some of the film is on You Tube too. Even if it doesn't work - thinking positively makes such a difference to your life.

My first Studio Calico kit arrived a few days ago, and the latest Red Velvet Art one today - can't wait to play, but have just finished a Land Law essay, and have a Criminal Law assignment(client advising) to prepare for Thursday, so being good and getting that done first. Treated myself to a long reach stapler yesterday too - its massive!

John's driving test tomorrow at 9.37am, so any positive thoughts our way would be greatly appreciated!

Product Road Test

2008-04-12T21:35:00.004+01:00

Got this lovely adhesive runner in the post from Design Objectives (aka Docrafts), with a list of questions to answer. It usually retails for £4.99. Never adverse to a freebie, especially a scrap related one!

This the LO I made using the EZ runner. Also used BasicGrey Sultry papers and fibres (thanks Katy!), 7gypsies card, American Crafts Thickers, chipboard and Maya Road stamp. Very impressed that the adhesive held the chipboard.

1. How often do you use adhesive? Several times a week

2. What is the main type of adhesive you use? Double Sided Tape

3. What do you look for in an adhesive? Ease of use, value for money

4. How easy is the product to remove from its packaging? Very easy

5. Does the product appeal to you? Yes - I like the shape and colour

6. How easy is the product to use? Fairly easy, although it would be better for me if the case was slightly smaller as I have small hands

7. How well does the product perform? Very well - I particularly like the way that it can go round corners and curves

8. Do you like the product? Yes, very much so

9. Do you consider it good value for money? I think it would be better value if it had more adhesive, was refillable or was slightly cheaper

10. Would you consider buying this product in the future? Yes
11. What would make you more likely to buy this product in the future? If it was slightly cheaper

12. What would make you less likely to buy this product in the future? If it was more expensive, or had less adhesive in it

Really enjoyed doing the road test - if anyone needs anything else testing, drop me a line!

VAST rock!!

2008-04-02T09:50:00.003+01:00

We went to the Bar Academy in Birmingham last night to see our favourite band EVER. They were soooo good. Am now deaf, ears ringing and throat like its been sandpapered, but it was so worth it.

Best song of the night was either Touched or Last One Alive. We got laminated passes which Jon Crosby (he IS VAST) signed. Not sure any of my photos came out. The girl next to me had a Canon DSLR (looked just like mine) and telephoto lens, and got some awesome shots - wished I'd taken mine!

So tired now though. Went on the train and got home at 12.30am. Asleep by 1.30 and up to take John to work at 6.15 - not good!

My GPS thing arrived yesterday. Haven't had chance to play with it yet though.

Realised last night that we're getting married NEXT MONTH!!

First Geocache!

2008-03-30T09:16:00.003+01:00

This morning we had to take John to work for 8am (which was actually 7 as the clocks had gone forward), and it was a beautiful day, sun shining, everything all clean from the night (and previous day's) rain, so Team DM Pirates went Geo caching. Have been hearing about this from KW and Jane for ages, and it sounded like so much fun - especially when the weather is nice.

So Ruth, Alex and I took a trip into town, and after a good bit of searching from the clues on the official site, we found our first cache! It was just a logbook to sign, but the feeling of achievement was amazing. Especially as we don't have a GPS yet - it should arrive mid next week. We did try another, but this was a bit harder, and I think we do really need a GPS for that one, so will try again once its arrived (and take John with us - he's not as self-conscious about rooting around!).

Only 62 days left til the wedding now. I think we're pretty much on target. Have organised for the reading of the banns in our parish, had first dress fitting (OMG it looks soooo good! Couldn't believe the difference having the right size made. And 4 1/2" heels might have helped!). Got Alex's suit (he looks so cute!), and John's shirt and wedding present ;) Just need to get his and Ruth's wedding shoes, and for Rosie's dress to arrive, and the only other thing really is the food. We bought the wedding rings a few weeks back - mine is an 18ct white gold super heavy weight 3mm one which goes perfectly with my engagement ring, and John's is a 5mm Platinum one - cost as much as both my rings put together which I think is nice.

Have a Land Law essay I've been putting off all holiday, and have to prepare for a Criminal Law oral - advising a client on their liability for murder, so really should be getting ready for that, but have trouble getting motivated unless a deadline is looming. I thrive on stress and deadlines!

Wahoo!!

2008-03-06T21:27:00.002Z

Finally my dress has arrived. Got the first fitting a week on Friday - just hope I fit into it.

Gave blood for the first time last Wednesday - it made me feel awful and did strange things to my heart but its something I've always wanted to do.

Friday was the 29th February - the one day in every 4 years that women are 'allowed' to propose to men. John had been saying how nice it must be to be proposed to. I was saying that I didn't need to as we were already engaged. Then I spent the whole day making preparations. Made an 'engagement cake' wrote 'will you marry me' on it with icing, bought him a watch, and candles, and roses (for the rose petals). Popped out for an hour for my facial and to have my eyebrows waxed (ouch). We picked him up from work, and then sent him upstairs while we lit the candles, and scattered the rose petals. I think he was pleasantly surprised - he said yes anyway!

College is still going well - I've had 2 merits (60% and 68%), and 6 distinctions (70%, 70%, 75%, 75%, 76% and 77%) so far. That's an average distinction so I'm happy. Lecturers are happy except that I'm not stretching myself enough. Got the details of some companies that might take me for work experience in the summer for Aidan today. He seemed to think that the highest profile company which only take the best students might well take me, but as they don't do criminal law, I'm not sure they'll be right for me. He did say there's a new female partnership that do criminal law, and that he knows one of them and thinks she'd like me, so is going to try and find me the details. If work experience goes well, a job can come of it, so I really need to make the most of this opportunity.

Lots of news - and 99 days left to go!!!!

2008-02-22T12:24:00.008Z

So this is how I'm having my make up for the wedding - my eyes look huge and I have the cheekbones of a Russian aristocrat! (Or at least that's what my beautician makes it look like;-). Only 99 days to go til the wedding - can't believe its going so quickly. That's like no time at all and I still have so much to do. My dress hasn't even arrived yet!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is a super cute photo I took of John and Ruth looking like twins! Without planning it they had worn matching clothes, and sat in the exact same way watching TV - so glad I caught this.

Ruth was 9 on Valentine's Day - can't believe I'm the mother of a 9 year old - how did that happen?! She had a great day. Loved her presents especially all her Hannah Montana things and her New Look t-shirt. She was so excited about getting to 9 and being able to buy proper New Look teenage clothes, even though she's only just going up to age 8 bottoms, she can get away with age 9 tops.

This is Ruth reading the dedications in her new HM CD and getting upset that Miley Cyrus' Dad died a few years back. She's such a sensitive soul.

We have to buy each of them a present when its the other one's birthday, and this year Alex got a Power Ranger outfit. Love the depth of field in this photo with the gun in focus and his face slightly blurred. Speaking of Alex, he's been very poorly - had 2 weeks of very high temp, and lost loads of weight cos no appetite. GP said it was a 'non-specific virus' but it progressed to an ear infection so its been a tough few weeks for all of us. The anti-biotics are working now, and he's a lot better, but has been doing 1/2 days at school the 2nd half of this week as not up to full days.

College has been going well. Enjoying the new topics - even Land Law! Only thing I struggle with now is Tort Law. Just can't get into it. But I got my 1st Tort assignment back yesterday, and had my 2nd highest mark for it - 76% so I guess its all relative. My average is now 71%. Just waiting for my Constitutional Law assignment back, but hopefully that won't bring me below an overall Distinction. I harbor a slightly unrealistic dream of getting into Cambridge, so really want to do as well as I can. My aim is to get 80% in an assignment - not sure if that will ever happen though.

And finally, a photo of my new shoes. I cannot tell you how much I love them. I have wanted some similar ones I saw for about 8 months, but they were no longer available when I went back to buy them. But then I spotted these on the website - same make, almost identical but with a higher heel - even better! I want to wear them all the time, but they're too special, so keeping them for a special occasion - maybe my honeymoon.

College

2008-02-05T20:41:00.000Z

Firsty, as promised, here is a picture of my hair from the trial on Friday - can't get the make up photo to upload as blogger is being a pain, but at least you get the idea.

College was ok. We had 2 Criminal Law lessons, which was good, as I'd been looking forward to it all year. Got the results of my Contract Law exam that I'd been so worried about, and got 70% which was a relief! Really didn't expect a distinction. My average is staying at 70% until I get the results of my other 2 assignments, which haven't been marked yet!

If you have a few spare minutes, please look at Kirsty's blog. She's trying to raise the money to take little Belle to the US to see a specialist. Details can be found here. The YouTube that Belle made for the campaign is here - please take a look and see if there's anything you can do to help this wonderful family.

Back to college tomorrow

2008-02-04T12:55:00.000Z

I am looking forward to starting the new subjects, but it'll be so hard going back after 2 weeks off. Mind you, only for a week then it's half term!

Had my hair and make up trial on Friday - may get round to uploading photos once I'm on the laptop.

Made an owl themed mini book over the weekend to record my obsession! Loved making it, and its so cute. Inspired by an Anita Mundt project from an old SI mag, and made with Sizzix Bigz frames and Hambly overlays, Sassafrass Lass Owl stamps, and photos. Haven't taken any photos of it yet, but hope to soon.

So pleased that I subscribed to the Red Velvet Art kit club - this months is soooo great! Can't wait for it to arrive, although it'll be at least a week. Hopefully will get here in time for half term.

Ikea extravaganza

2008-01-31T11:28:00.001Z

We went to Ikea yesterday - only took about an hour each way, but boy was I exhausted last night! Had thought about giving blood for the first time yesterday, but good job I didn't cos I think it would have finished me off!

John's Mum spotted this cake stand and cover there, so I just had to have that for the wedding reception. Its so pretty! Only £9.99 too. We bought loads off stuff - plates, serving dishes, tealight holders, vases, mirors, etc etc. Took an age to go round, and completly wore me out, but so worth it. Even got a few things for my craft space, and a floor lamp for MIL (John was feeling generous and paid for those too). Got to the till expecting it to all come to £200+ (we filled 2 trolleys and they were REALLY heavy) but it was actually only about £116! Bargain.

Think the wedding is going to be perfect. Looked round the church and its hall again on Tuesday evening. John had the biggest grin on his face the whole time. He said to me later that the only thing that matters to him is that I'm there. So sweet! It means so much to me that he's so looking forward to it, as over the years it was always me that wanted to get married, and he's have been happy to just live together.

Today it is 10 years since my Nanny died. I've felt so sad this week. It breaks my heart that she won't be at my wedding, but worse than that is the fact that she never got to meet my children, and they never got to meet one of the most imortant people in my life. I'm trying to work on a LO to put down everyhing I can remember about her.

Craft group tonight. First one in ages.

I'm still alive - honest!

2008-01-29T09:40:00.000Z

Just been busy the past few weeks.

Finished my essays and got them in. Don't think my Contract Law exam went well - fire alarm went off after a few minutes, and my mind went blank. At the moment my average mark is 70% - just scraping a Distinction (70%+) so not sure how these last lot of assessments will affect that.

Picked up my shoes. I LOVE them soooo much. Have to practice walking in them though as they're so high. Off to look at the church hall tonight, and to Ikea tomorrow to get plates, vases, tea light holders, cutlery, cake stands etc.

Its our teams challenge on UKScrappers this week. Been trying really hard to comment on as many LOs as possible, as I've done challenges in the past and had NO comments from the team who set it. I don't scrap for the comments, I scrap for me, but it put me off doing challenges, and posting any LOs I did do into online galleries.

I'm an aunty!

2008-01-12T18:39:00.000Z

John's sister Grace had a beautiful baby boy on Friday at about 11pm. He's gorgeous but huge - weighed in at 9 lb 8 oz. So the past few days have been constant driving for me to and from the hospital in Worcester, John's mum's and Grace's flat. I'm exhausted! Just got back from dropping off John and his Mum at the hosp. and given the kids their tea. Not sure when John'll be home. Oh well, maybe I'll be able to watch Casualty in peace!

I bought a tiara at long last yesterday. It's stunning. Quite a classic style - very Audrey Hepburn, thought it'd cost a fortune, but was only £55, so I was very pleased. Hair and make-up trial is booked for 1st Feb - can't wait. Fairly sure I've made up my mind how to have it. I think.

And I got a new lens - its a Sigma 70-300mm and is great for outdoor shots of the kids at a distance. Took some photos of the snow on the hills from the back garden, and of the floods at Worcester. Think I do need a tripod now though. Also a portrait lens - Canon 50mm f/1.8 is the one I've got my eye on.

Beautiful shoes and SI news (ooh that rhymes!)

2008-01-10T09:55:00.001Z

How gorgeous are these shoes?! As soon as I saw them on the Benjamin Adams website I knew I had to have them for my wedding. I know they are obscenely expensive on my student budget at £200 but unlike a lot of wedding shoes I'll be able to wear them again afterwards, so its an investment. And they are soooo beautiful. They should arrive at the shop early next week - can't wait! As they didn't have any in the shop for me to try for size, he instead let me try on another pair of BA shoes - but those cost £400! They were lovely but I prefer the ones I'm getting.
On to Scrapbook Inspirations news - my LO is in there! Was terrified it wouldn't be, so when it arrived yesterday as I was on my way out i tore open the envelope and desperately flicked through til I found it. Later at college while I ate my lunch (Philadelphia and breadstick thing - I'm on a diet and its killing me!!! All my freinds keep eating at McDonalds and I'm craving French Fries) I had a more thorough look through, and on the Inspirations for February page, they've got my photo used in the LO as the no.1 thing to photograph this month - how cool is that!!

I'm very poorly sick today. This cold/cough thing is really getting me down. Struggled through yesterday having coughing fits, but am coughing stuff up today (sorry TMI!) so thought I'd better stay away(it has nothing to do with the fact that the latest Got Paint class is up. Thats just a happy coincidence).

Goodbye 2007

2007-12-31T09:37:00.000Z

A pretty picture of Pilch to see out the year - one of the highlights of the year was getting my DSLR camera - and to date I've taken nearly 400 photos with it. Not bad since I've had it less than 2 weeks!

This has been a good year for me. Starting college went better than I could have possibly imagined. Getting engaged and starting planning our wedding was a definite highlight of the year. A lot of the people I care about had a terrible time though - relationships breaking down, and some really terrible things I can't even begin to talk about. My wish for 2008 is that everyone has a year to remember for only good reasons.

I've signed up to Got Paint? - Emily Falconbridge's class on BPS. Can't wait. I'm totally in awe of her amazing work - hope some of her talent wears off on me.

Had my first lot of photos for the new camera arrive today - the colours are amazing! You really don't get the full affect on the computer screen. Hope my mojo hurries back as their are some beautiful ones I'm desperate to scrap. Might even have to resort to looking for sketches on challenge blogs which I normally avoid. I always feel like it's not 100% my own work, but it seems to work for other people, so may give it a try. any suggestions as to blogs to try would be gratefully received.

Happy New Year!

A good Christmas

2007-12-28T11:14:00.000Z

Except that I was ill for the second Christmas running. Must start those Vitamins! Ruth and Alex were really good, and loved all their presents - favourites were Alex's bike (photo is his face when he realised what was under the blanket Father Christmas had used to wrap it), his personal DVD player (which didn't work so yesterday we had to brave the sales and take it back and buy a new - twice the price! replacement), their (very cheap) MP3 players which they listen to constantly, and Ruth's Hannah Montana stuff and Momiji doll - she is obsessed with Japan.

I was lucky enough to get the Crumpler camera bag I'd asked Santa for, and the Olivia and Friends stamps - so I now have all 3 sets.

John enjoyed Christmas as well even though he was ill too.

On Boxing Day we took Alex for his first ride on his new bike. It is a little big for him yet but he did really well, and obviously loves having a big boys bike. Both kids said it was the 'Best Christmas EVER!', so was all worth while. Tommorrow we are taking them to Cribbs Causeway so they can spend their Christmas money. Ruth's desperate to get a Hello Kitty from the Build a Bear Workshop, (more Japanese influence).

Was very bad and seduced by the sales in the UKS sponsers shops - only spent about £15 including postage, but its money I don't have til I'm back at college when I get my next installment of Student finance.

Heroes Fiend...

2007-12-23T10:01:00.000Z

...according to the 'Addicted to Heroes' application on Facebook! I'm spending far too much time on the trivia quiz - and I've just discovered the graphic novels on the NBC website.

I did do a bit of creating last night though - started my mini chipboard books of our wedding. The first one is 'the proposal'.

HerSpace MySpace

2007-12-20T12:20:00.000Z

Look what I've got!

2007-12-20T11:24:00.000Z

My lovely shiny new camera! It's a Canon EOS 400D and I love it!!!! We went to Cribbs Causeway again yesterday and I bought it with my birthday and Christmas money from John Lewis. After staff discount and the cashback offer it will have cost £330. Not bad. I haven't been brave enough to try it on anything other than full auto, but am going to start reading the manual (with a box of chocolates to help me!) in a minute. I took lots of photos of Christmas tree decorations - they're not great, but it's a start.

I also managed to track down the Sizzix Bigz die I've been after for months in Hobbycraft, and today I ordered a Cuttlebug and some Revolution Dies - Tattoo Art - they're so Alex. Have no money left now though!

An update on my beautiful ring - the one John bought me originally which was the size the shop said I was was too loose - it was almost falling off, so heartbreaking as it was, we had to exchange it. H Samuel only keep 1 of each ring in stock so the chance of them having my ring in the right size was fairly remote, but we popped in to the one in Cribbs Causeway as we thought it was worth a try - they had it in a size smaller which was what I needed. We were stunned. And weirdly although it's an identical ring, the diamond looks far sparklier and John's mum and I both think it looks bigger (but may be because the band is smaller).

Here are some photos we took (had to wrestle MY camera from John to get a look in!)

My photos -

By John -

It's my birthday!!!!!

2007-12-17T11:44:00.000Z

I had a feeling that this would happen!

Had the best day yesterday - we all went to the cinema and saw the Golden Compass. LOVE that film. We all did actually. I am a massive fan of the books, but I loved the film in its own right.

Then we went to the candlelight carol service at the church we're getting married in. It was the first time we'd been inside, and I'm so pleased - its lovely! John's Mum and brother came too, so it was lovely. Alex was really good for him, especially as he'd been sitting still all afternoon in the cinema.

On the way home we bought takeaway pizza (not healthy but I love it!), and when we got home John went upstairs for a while. I was sitting there with the pizza going cold watching snooker when he reappeared carrying a tiny (9") real Christmas tree. He knelt down in front of me and said "Will you marry me?" On the top of the Christmas tree where the star would go was this ring (well not this actual one, we couldn't get a good photo so I borrowed it from the website of the shop it came from. Once I've got my DSLR on Wednesday I'll recreate the Christmas Tree with ring). Of course I said yes! We have been planning our wedding for months after all!

And then Ronnie won the snooker 10 frames to 2 so I was very happy. We (John and I, not Ronnie and I!) shared a bottle of Taittinger champagne but I was so excited I couldn't eat more than one slice of pizza!

This morning Ruth, Alex, John and Pilchard came down singing 'Happy Birthday to you', and carrying my 3 presents - my gorgeous Emily Falconbridge camera strap, a memory card for my camera, and these stamps I just LOVE!

So its been a great few days for me - hope anyone who reads this has a great day and a lovely Christmas.

It's getting better....

2007-12-14T10:13:00.000Z

...everything that is.

It's only 3 days til my birthday, and although I'm going to be 27 (!!!) I'm as excited as any nearly 7 year old. Have a feeling this'll be a fantastic one - will update on that if what I think may happen does. And I will finally be getting my DSLR next week - hooray!!

Secondly Alex is staring to make a small improvement in his behaviour, and Ruth has managed 2 nights without her ear infection waking her in agony.

And the final bit of good news - I got another 2 Distinctions at college. Was a total shock, as I don't think I'm as good at those areas as the 2 I got my results for last month. I got 75% for Constitutional Law, and 77% for Legal Sources and Skills. So my average is now 72.5% which is an overall Distinction.

Looking forward to Christmas (putting up the tree on Monday - a life long tradition which started when my Dad bought a set of fairy lights the day I was born, and they were the first thing I focussed my eyes on), and saw this on Katy's blog, so had to give it a go -

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? Wrapping paper. I'm not much good at wrapping, but love it.
2. Real tree or Artificial? Artificial - love real ones, but not practical with small kids and a cat.
3. When do you put up the tree? Always on my birthday - the 17th
4. When do you take the tree down? 12th Night unless the kids/cat combo forces us to take it down sooner.
5. Do you like eggnog? Never tired it - I do love Bailey's though.
6. Favourite gift received as a child? A computer compatible tape deck. That was so cool at the time - took half an hour to load a game though!
7. Do you have a nativity scene? No
8. Hardest person to buy for? John - men are sooo hard to buy for
9. Easiest person to buy for? Alex - the hard part is knowing when to stop!
10. Worst Christmas gift ever received? 'Smellies' that smell like ****
11. Mail or email Christmas card? Mail
12. Favourite Christmas Movie? The Snowman. But I always cry when he melts.
13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? Noember
14. Have you ever recycled/regifted a Christmas present? Not that I can remember
15. Favourite thing to eat at Christmas? Lebkuchen - reminds me of Christmases with my Grandparents
17. Favourite Christmas song? Love all the Slade/Wizzard/Wham etc etc classics.
18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home
19. Can you name Santa's reindeer? Tried this with Ruth the other day - think we managed about 5.
20. Do you have an Angel on top of the tree or a star? Got a new one this year - its a sort of starry snowflake thing.
21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Christmas Day
22. Most annoying thing about this time of year? Overwrought kids!
23. Best thing about Christmas? The atmosphere and build up to it.

Being Brave

2007-12-10T10:18:00.000Z

Today I'm being brave and going back to the GP to see if we can be referred to a Behavioural Psychologist. Having struggled for about 6 years, I think I've finally realised that Alex's behaviour isn't something I can tackle by myself.

I'm also hoping that the GP can write to the HA and get us moved up the transfer list, as we are desperately in need of a bigger house.

I'm scared at the moment - can't think about it without crying, so talking to the Dr. won't be easy. But it's something that needs to be done, and the sooner the better. One thing I've noticed from reading on the net is that a lot of problems in children are caused by the parents and their reaction to the behaviour. That makes me feel sooo much better.

I do feel better today than last week. I can see what could be a light at the end of the tunnel - but it could be a hallucination.

Hard Week

2007-12-05T12:10:00.000Z

This has been one hard week. Alex has been poorly with a chest infection, and the anti-boitics he was given to make him better made him the most hyper-active I've ever seen. Really bad. Totally out of control. Today we went back to the GP and he's been taken off the medicine in the hope his body will make itself better. Hopefully the behaviour will calm down now. In a strange way though its been a good thing, as we now have some idea why his behaviour has been getting worse recently. Hopefully by cutting out hose additives, and other ones advised by health officials, we should have a chance of improvement.

Fingers crossed.

Haven' managed to do any scrapping yet this month - and hardly did any in November either. Want to, just don't have time or energy. Would love to start a Christmas journal - would be great way to use my new Bind-it-all which has barely been out of the box yet!

Wedding news!

2007-11-19T12:31:00.001Z

We had a stroke of luck on Saturday when walking through the park - there by the bridge over the lake was a stunning Burgundy classic car. I hurried on over to ask for a business card, and amazingly they had one free on the 31st May, so we've booked it - its the one at the front of the photo - a 1939 Buick.
And this is where we'll be spending our honeymoon - we can only manage 2 nights so we'll have to make the most of it. Can't wait! Will be wearing my gorgeous new Hobbs purple silk dress that I got in John Lewis, as you have to dress for dinner.

Just need some shiny super high black heels to go with it! I love spending money!

Instant love!

2007-11-15T20:26:00.000Z

Love this stamp! Managed to get it pre-release from Red Velvet Art. Never manage to kit the kits in time, but at least I managed this little beauty. It was waiting for me when I got back from my college tutorial today.

The tutorial went well. I was a little disappointed that I only got 68% for my essay (2 marks off a distinction, but still a merit), but the lecturer seems pleased with my progress, and said she expects me to get distinctions in future essays.

Went to Bristol on Tuesday and John got a beautiful Charlie Allen suit, and I've got the most fantastic purple silk evening dress for the honeymoon - so excited! We tried to book the honeymoon this afternoon, but just missed the reservations lady so will try again tomorrow. Did quite a lot of the Christmas shopping too.

That Was Hard!

2007-11-10T16:09:00.000Z

I enjoyed the reading I did for the English Legal System essay on the judiciary - maybe that was why I found it so hard to keep to the word limit (went over by more than 100% but the lecturer said its not as important for this first on). Managed to give it in on Thursday, and fingers crossed I've done a fairly good job - I tried sooo hard! In contrast, the Contract Law assessment was an oral - we had to pretend to be a solicitor and advise a client (one of our other teachers) while our Contract teacher took notes. And I was TERRIFIED! Shook like a leaf - honestly, I've never felt so scared. Was convinced that I'd really let myself down - don't find Contract easy at the best of times, but when my brain just won't engage its nigh on impossible. But I got my result on Thursday - and somehow I managed to scrape a Distinction!!! And I do mean scrape - the minimum for a distinction is 70% which was what I got!

Haven't managed much scrapping though - well any actually! Have had some photos from Photobox arrive today though - only ordered them yesterday!

The wedding is booked for the 31st May 2008 - not long now! We're trying to decide what time to have the service. Its a very hard decision. We're thinking of late morning, then having a light lunch buffet for the reception. Just need to think if it'll leave us time to get ready. Well for me to get ready - don't think it'll take John very long, but I have hair and make up at the hairdressers which'll take about 1 1/2 hours, getting dressed etc, etc. And it'll take a while to get to the church.

We're going to Cribbs Causeway next week (study week!) to do the Christmas Shopping, and get John's wedding suit from John Lewis. Hopefully it'll be a really nice day - will be a nice change for us to spend some time just the two of us!

2007-10-21T19:21:00.001+01:00

Managed to actually upload a LO for a change! Did this weeks challenge for UKS, and an acetate book for the cybercrop, so quite pleased with myself.

Feeling crappy today - throat like sandpaper - so hard to swallow, and aching like I've run a marathon. Think its because I've been working so hard for the past 6 weeks, and now I'm on half-term, my defences are down, I've got ill! So much work to do though, will have to fight it.

F1 final race of the season today - not a bad result - at least Alonso didn't win - we don't like him.

Kirsty W phoned again last night to discuss my wedding plans - always feel a bit overwhelmed when I talk to her - must get over that before the actual wedding!

I've been tagged!

2007-10-12T12:52:00.000+01:00

I was tagged today by Sandie. Thanks mate! These are the rules.....
1. Post these rules
2. Share 7 random or weird facts about yourself
3. Tag and list 7 people at the end of your post
4. Let them know they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

So here we go....

1. My favourite TV program is Neighbours - yes sad I know, but I LOVE it!
2. I can't go anywhere without taking everything but the kitchen sink - If I don't have it I might need it though!
3. I work best under pressure. I need a looming deadline and a list of a million things to do to get motivated.
4. I love being up before the sun, but fall asleep before 9pm on the sofa every night
5. I secretly dream of being a singer, but the only person who thinks I have a good voice is me!
6. I am a tad obsessive - once I set my mind on something I just can't ret til I have it/have done it.
7. I'm turning into a Bridezilla!!!!!

so the people I have tagged are

Ruth

And everyone else I know with a blog ahs already been tagged! I need more friends.

So bad at this blogging thing!

2007-10-08T11:32:00.000+01:00

Really intended to blog almost daily, but life has yet again got in the way.

Life is busy, but good. Wedding plans coming along well - dress ordered, florist, photographer and church booked. College is great, exhausting, but loving it! At the moment we are studying several different aspects of Law, and I'm enjoying them all.

And miracle of miracles I actually did my first LO in about a month yesterday! Felt good to be creating again. Am really going to try and do more.

And so exciting - got an email from Elsie (a scrapping idol on mine) - she had seen Ruth's design and thinks its so cute! Ruth (and me) are so chuffed she took the time to email. Really made our week last week!

The busiest week EVER

2007-09-15T08:19:00.000+01:00

Ok I know how I keep saying that, but this really was.

College started Tuesday, and with it the kiddies first day at Breakfast Club. Fortunately they enjoyed it (although Alex was cross about not getting a long go on the Playstation apparently!). College was great. Really enjoyed feeling my brain coming back to life - felt a bit like when a butterfly hatches from its cocoon and its wings unfurl. I like the feeling of being intelligent - thought I'd lost it.

Loving Law - its one of those subjects that I just feel I can DO if you know what I mean. Some of the aspects aren't as enjoyable as others yet, but sure it'll come in time.

And yesterday went wedding dress trying on again. Different shop this time. The lady was great - looks at you and knows what kind of dresses will work with your figure and isn't afraid to tell you if you try one and it doesn't work. I tried 2 dresses the I love. One is £200 cheaper and more me though - and its one I'd found on the designers site and loved straight away, so think thats it. Just have to find a time for my mum and dad (and hopefully my friend) to come and see it, and think we'll be putting down a deposit. Oooh how exciting!

Only 2 days to go!

2007-09-09T09:54:00.000+01:00

In 2 days time I will be sitting in my first lesson. I'm getting really nervous - real butterfly moments. Part of the nerves are because the money isn't in my account yet - sure I'll realax a bit more once it's there. My books (4 of them) arrived, and my MASSIVE tote bag I'm going to use for laptop and books etc, so at least I'm a bit prepared.

School going back was good. Kids looked gorgeous in there new uniform - the colour really suits them. On the first day the whole school gathered in the juniors playground to see the release of 400 (1 for each member of the school) helium balloons in the new school colour.

The kids seem to be getting on well with their new teachers - Alex has the best teacher Ruth ever had, so fingers crossed he'll do well with her, and Ruth is the only one in her class who doesn't have to read to her parents, she is so pleased she can just read to herself - which she loves doing anyway. As far as I can tell she can choose whatever she wants to read too - hopefully no more of those awful Ginn books she hated and wouldn't read.

Lots to do today - shopping, weekly challenge LO, roast dinner and all the ironing - fun!

Schools back tomorrow!!!!!

2007-09-05T07:49:00.000+01:00

All together now - HOORAY! Only joking, I'll miss the little pumpkins. Not the bickering which they kept up constantly for 7 weeks though. 'We're not fighting' they'd tell me a zillion times a day as I'd ask them to PLEASE stop. Oh well. Ironed all the school uniform last night - only took 1 1/4 hours. Ha. Wouldn't mind never looking at an iron again. Don't think it helps that our iron is rubbish.

Won't have much time to get used to time on my own - John's on holiday til Monday, and I'm starting college on Tuesday. Stupid bus company has changed bus times, so looks like I may have to drive in on Tuesdays, but never mind.

Wedding Fair was good - managed to sort out florist and tiara maker (who can also decorate the cake) who both come out to you to sort out the details. Tried on a couple of tiaras and felt like such a princess!

And the BEST news - we can get married where we want with the vicar we want, as long as we get permission and banns read by our parish vicar - and the vicar we want to marry us is going to put in a good word for us with him if needed. So happy I can't say.

Enrolment at college was on Monday, and no, I hadn't realised what the queues would be like. It seemed like the wholeof Worcestershire was trying to enrol at the same time. So lots of people + rapidly running out parking ticket = very stressed me! Its done now though, and we've ordered my books (£92 ish for 4!!), and bag, and I've even got a couple of bits of stationary from good ol Tesco. Once my student finance money clears, have soooo much I need to buy, just don't know where I'll find the time.

Another busy busy week

2007-09-01T09:12:00.000+01:00

And its flown by! The kids are back at school on Thursday - don't know where the holiday has gone! And only just over a week til college starts!

So this week - had a bit of a shock when the phone rang on Thursday evening, and it was THE Kirsty Wiseman. If you know me, you'll know that she's one of my absolute favourite scrappers and photographers, and she phoned to say she'll do our wedding photography!!! Soooooo excited. Need to make sure we can book the right date though - must do that ASAP. Just need OH to hurry up with his side of things!

Malvern Papercrafters was good - quiet, but that was nice as we could chat with people. We did a gorgeous little squeeze book, the first one I made is a birthday present for my Mum on Monday - must finish it and make her card.

Tonight we have a family do to go to - OHs cousin died recently, and it would have been his birthday today, so his family are celebrating his memory. Will be sad, but the kids haven't met their great Aunt and Uncle before, so hopefully it'll be the start of something good.

Tomorrow I'm going to a wedding fair with my sister - love those things! Her fiance couldn't make it, and as OH is on holiday, I get to go - yay!

And the LO is this weeks challenge on UKS. Love these swan pics. There is a single black swan that visits the river at Worcester, and its a rare and beautiful sight. Bare in mind that all my recent photos (like for the past 9 months) have been taken with the 3 MP camera on my mobile phone - in a few weeks I'll have an SLR, and can't wait to see what they'll be like then. Hopefully better!

I'm being drawn to the Canon EOS 400D (thanks Katy for the help and advice), but going to go and try out a few first before I come to a decision.

Oh, and my Student Finance Payment Schedule arrived in the end - was beginning to panic, as I need it for registration on Monday or I don't get my money. Such a relief I almost cried!

School Uniform Shopping!!!

2007-08-29T07:42:00.000+01:00

Yep, it was finally the day to go and try and track down seemingly non-existent school uniform, on what I hadn't realised was the busiest school uniform shopping day of the year! Not fun.

It took 4 hours, but we managed it all pretty much in the end. And thank the Lord the price of the clothes is coming down each year - cos £36 each for shoes?! How can that be right. The trouble is, you see, that as well as being petite little things, who have waists a few sizes smaller than their age clothes size, they have high arches on their feet, so need more support than a lot of shoes give - which means they need Startrite shoes, which means EXPENSIVE. Worth it to protect their little ankles though.

Oh, and GREAT news - OH passed his theory test with 35/35 in the questions part.

Super talented daughter alert!

2007-08-27T12:41:00.000+01:00

How clever is my baby! She designed these clothes al herself, inspired by Love Elsie, Roxy range. She wants to be a fashion designer, and then retire to Hawaii, and if you know Ruth, you'll know that if she puts her mind to something, there's not much that could stop her - so look out London, Paris New York and Milan - Ruth's Rock-Sy - rocking a girls world is coming!

Urgh

2007-08-24T09:34:00.000+01:00

Feeling a bit rubbish today. So tired, and its hot and that the of the month, so feeling tetchy as well. Going to try and do some creating today - that should cheer me up.

Although I slept through last night, had horrible dreams, and feel more tired than when I went to bed.

Its been a bit of a busy week - Alex's birthday, and on Wednesday we went to Merry Hill shopping, and to see Transformers. John started at 7am again yesterday which is always a struggle.

At least the sun is shining - if it was miserable I'd be straight back to bed (not that that's possible with the kids at home!).

Hoping to get my student finance letter today, and still waiting for the solicitor to send John's cheque. Might have to phone them and hurry them up.....

My Baby Is 6!

2007-08-21T12:43:00.000+01:00

Alex's birthday today - he's having a great day. He loved his presents, and opened them in record time.

We went to the Theatre and met PC Plum from Balamory - he was so nice, and said Happy Birthday to Alex, and he and Ruth had their photo taken with him. Was impressed with how natural he was with all the kids.

This is my latest creation - finished last night, and inspired by a Prodigy song title. Actually I made Alex's birthday card after this - I did a paper piecing of Makka Pakka from In The Night Garden, which took forever, but he loved it, and he had asked for a Makka Pakka card.

Got birthday cake and Dalek cookies to make this afternoon, so better go and get started....

These Shoes Rock!!

2007-08-19T08:47:00.001+01:00

How cool are these shoes?! We got them in the Next sale at the beginning of the holidays when we were waiting for Morrison's to open (delayed due to the floods) so I could buy Harry Potter (so obsessed with those books), and Ruth has worn them all holiday - no matter what outfit she wore them with she made them work. She has such style - I should probably get tips from her!

Loved making this LO. Was pretty quick - under an hour I think. So pleased I managed to stamp onto the photo without it smudging - thank the Lord for Staz-On!!

I have filled all my scrapbook albums, so have worked out I need 4 more - a 12x12 (don't use that format as often any more, but for the occasional LO its necessary), 11x8.5 (my current favourite - I find it so much easier), 6x12 (just got into that, and its so much fun, and so quick and easy), and I've seen a 'Guess How Much I Love You' album that I want to do the baby photos in. Good job I'll have so much more money in a month isn't it!

Better go - Alex wants an exploding box for his birthday, and I haven't made his card yet - or this weeks Art Journal (I'm doing the Emily Falconbridge challenges, but only started last week, so on #2 - what is powerful to you - know what I want to do, just have to do it!).

2007-08-18T16:39:00.001+01:00

Nearly forgot - the tooth fell out while he was brushing his teeth on Friday night. Thought he'd swallowed it, and he wrote a letter to the tooth fairy to say sorry, but I managed to find it inside his t-shirt! Took photos of the gap, so will scrap those at some point.

Uuurrrggghh I HATE this weather

2007-08-18T16:32:00.000+01:00

I find it SO hard to do anything when its all dark and rainy like today - apart from fall asleep that is!

But I have managed to finish this weeks challenge on UKS. Not really a heritage scrapper, but using primary colours made this a pleasurable experience. The photo is of my granddad taken in about 1930, and on the back was written 'John 'the pickle' '. We don't know who wrote it or why, but its such a lovely photo, and the title and photo are inextricable linked to me, so that's why I used it as the LO title.

Got my timetable for September today. Relieved that it came, as was worrying about when I was supposed to enrol etc, so going to try and not think about it now, and enjoy the rest of the holiday.

Only 3 days til Alex's birthday - he'll be 6!!! How fast has that gone. He wants me to make him an exploding box with photos of him in, like the one I made Granny for her birthday, so better go and get that started.

2007-08-17T16:15:00.001+01:00

Oooh how exciting - never been tagged before.

Thanks Katy for that.

And I'm tagging Paula, cos I love reading her blog, and she's so nice!

1st post....

2007-08-14T13:15:00.000+01:00

.... of my new blog!

These next few months will be such a dramatic change for all of us. Starting college full time (I'm doing a Law HND - scary!), Ruth and Alex going to Breakfast and After School lub, planning our wedding - I can see that in the future I'll want to look back and see exactly what happened in the mad rush that was the 07/08 school year.

This was one of the 3 (yes 3!) LOs I did at the crop on Saturday. Baring in mind that I've never even managed to do a complete LO at a crop before, this was quite a feat. I'm loving scrapping so much at the moment. Can't wait til September when I have more money to buy all the stash I'm lusting after!

Oh and I think I may have found 'the' dress. Can't stop thinking about it! But can't post a picture, just incase 'someone' sees it.

I'm going to try and be very good, and blog regularly. Having a laptop for college will hopefully make that easier.

Its my little sisters birthday today - she says 22 sounds so old. Just wait til you're nearly 27!