Chipmunk's Paper Creations

your life... live it...

2010-07-11T15:37:00.017+08:00

The Color Room - Challenge #3
"your life"

I did this page in April... and now it's July... how time flies! =)

Now, i'm seriously lacking in mojo. The Tattered Angels stencils and glimmer mists I bought about a month ago are just dying to be used (they're sitting idly on my little scrap table gathering dust).

I also miss a lot of things. I miss this li'l boy here and his sweet mom (Amy) who's now a certified SAHM in Michigan. And of course, I miss scrapping.

What have I been up to? I went to a couple of summer outings this June (not surprising), so my weekends were fully booked. And when I got back, I got "addicted" - curses to mangafox and iphone apps! I've been holed up in our room reading free scanlations til 2AM. And while waiting for the pages to load I sneak in playing Farm Story, We Rule, God Finger, Tap Farm, Tap Fish, Tap Store, Tap Resort (now there's even a Tap Bird!), and Zombie Farm ALL AT THE SAME TIME.

And some things I don't miss, are things I haven't even done... things on the backburner I haven't come around to doing. So today's the day - I'm starting to train for a 5K marathon. =P Lots of people are running and joining marathons, getting fit in the process and having tons of fun. I'm also going to rekindle my love for drawing and going with a bunch of friends to a studio to sketch. Nothing serious, it's not even a class - just sketching a model.

Hopefully, in the middle of all this, I can still do a page or two for challenges. =)

monday blues...

2010-04-27T00:14:00.004+08:00

Just sharing a few layouts on a blue monday morning (started out raining). This first one is bright and sunny (I really love yellow on layouts), where you see the fleece American Crafts embellies I just couldn't resist buying (my wallet was supposed to be on strike buy I coaxed a few bucks out of it). Love the center die cut from Lily!

And here's my take on the second color palette over at The Color Room. Too bad the misting isn't as solid as in real life. Here it looks very subtle:

through the looking glass...

2010-04-11T12:32:00.015+08:00

Misty, misty Sunday... after a GREAT saturday crop with the SASG girls, I'm still experiencing some outflow of creative juices (I want to mist, paint, and ink something!). The girls made our 3rd Anniversary extra special with the challenge (we all loved borrowing Marix' stencils and mists, as well as stamping and embossing with her beautiful stamps!). I also loved all the games which got us on our feet before the long sit-down to do our layouts. I'm especially fond of the the "hep hep hurray" game, hee hee. =D And the musical chairs and "pabitin" was a wonderful treat. So here's the fruit of my labor:

...and here are some close-ups, where I used glimmer mist from Tattered Angels (Crushed Shells and Suede):

...I also used Ranger Distress Crackle paint (in Shabby Shutters) on the leaf here (thougt it didn't turn out quite the way I liked... I really love the color).

Used Teresa Collins (Welcome Home) patterned paper for the border, and Marix' "Alice" stamp (using Versa Ink) to make this li'l "locket" type embellishment.

Then finally used these new uber chic ribbons to finish off.

the Alice in Wonderland challenge

2010-04-01T00:17:00.016+08:00

{"in Wonderland" by Iris Babao Uy}

Down the rabbit-hole we go... to the 32nd Scrappersatsg Challenge!
It's our 3rd Anniversary Challenge and it's extra special because:

ONE - the challenge is issued by none other than Iris Babao Uy! (We're so thrilled and honored!)

TWO - the challenge is open to ALL scrappers! (Join in the fun!)

Without further ado, here's Iris' challenge:

Create a layout that is inspired by the movie (or book) , Alice in Wonderland.
The catch is you have to use, at least, two art mediums.
That could be a crackle paint, mist, ink, gel, etc

To quote her: "To not care about getting messy and making mistakes. To just have fun and create".

Deadline is on April 29, 11:59 PM.
Please send your entries to scrappersatsg@gmail.com.

What's in store for you? Why this wonderful RAK of course! So come join us and have a wonderful scrapping time!

weekend treats...

2010-03-27T12:43:00.016+08:00

Just sharing some news from the scrapping world. First off, Laines! They chose my little, itty-bitty (but oh so true!) comment... so today I'm gonna go pick it up. =D

...and yesterday I dropped by Nana's blog... found these pretties for sale! I snapped the last of the set #2 and am now patiently waiting for it in the mail.

saturday morning blurb

2010-03-20T03:53:00.003+08:00

Finally... I have a decent scrap tote. Just bought it from the LSS and was very pleased with how it looked and felt. I think it's an old design because I can't find a decent picture of it anywhere on the web. Basically it's shaped like the tote bag on the left (with light brown leather handles) but the pattern is the same as the small craft bag on the right.

I've been organizing my stuff to fit in the bag (for the April 10 scrapmeet with the girls) but alas only my papers and thickers would fit. =( I really have to figure out which papers to bring.

That or bring a smaller bag for the embellies and stuff.

greens and yellows

2010-03-18T02:09:00.010+08:00

3 more layouts! What a feat. I was really pushing myself and trying to see if I could squeeze out a few more pages from the long "winter storage" of a few months.

This one's of an old picture (something I've already made a page on before) using a lot of my old stash.

And this one's for the March 2010 Challenge for Scrappersatsg using the second color combo - Orange and Yellow.

What can I say, I'm still loving that yellow! I just had to make a layout for Jillian (with a title of "sad") because when she saw the page I did with the "happy" title she was looking for the "sad" one... go figure.

pages for March

2010-03-17T23:37:00.004+08:00

2 months and 18 days since my last post. Starting off (quite late, but better late than never) with a *bang* this year... 2 pages which I really had fun with. What can I say? I was inspired by good friends and some much needed scrapping time with the girls.

This page is for Shasha's uber talented daughter Julia. I wish I could have put more journalling, but I hope to do that on the other photos.

And this one's for the March 2010 Scrappersatsg Challenge using the first color combo - Pink and Green.

Calendar

2009-12-19T22:39:00.006+08:00

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 29
"January"

6 days to go til Christmas! And yes, I haven't done my Christmas shopping yet. A lot of events we went to (and still to go to) this month and they all contributed to the general good cheer and holiday spirit. Loved our Christmas Scrapmeet, Office Party (Retro 70's!), and celebrated a few birthdays with colleagues and friends (night out at a pub and a slumber party)... wish it was December all year round! LOL. =P

I made this calendar at the office coz I was really inspired by Webster's Pages and Graphic 45. I just wish work would let up so we can really feel the spirit of the season.

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas! =D

Of Yoghurts and Swimming

2009-11-08T10:03:00.007+08:00

Sooo, I'm updating for some of the pages I've done on the last Scrappersatsg scrapmeet (too bad a lot of the girls weren't there, we missed you!). That was about 3 weeks ago, and yes this post is waaay delayed.

Thanks to My "mommy" Marix for giving me this wonderful loot! =D What a treat in time for Halloween.

And now for a few quick layouts (quickly made up to a certain point, really) that I only finished last night. =P

CJ's Challenge
"Yoghurt Face"

For CJ's challenge on the scrapmeet, we were tasked to make a page with the ff. elements: (1) a red background, (2) food-related title, (3) a long embellishment, (4) a circular item.

Sassafras Lass was just perfect for this and I'm lovin' the red and green.

Cute #1's challenge
"swim fun"

For Beths' challenge, we were to make a layout with the ff.: (1) a photo of 1 adult and 1 child, and (2) alter a chipboard accent with patterned paper used somewhere else on the layout.

I'm so glad Abby bought so many pics of Bettina and Teta, she even shared some of her stash so I could finish the title. Thanks girl! =D

Ren - Mum to Be

2009-10-23T23:50:00.004+08:00

"Mum 2 Be"

Another October post! Better late than never I always say. This one's based on Valerie Salmon's work "You & Me" on the Feb/March 2009 issue of Scrapbooks Etc. We gave our colleague Ren a surprise baby shower today at the office and she was totally caught off guard. Everyone had a great time. I managed to bring my mom and Jillian as well. Too bad Jill wanted to go home before all the games ended, but still it was tons of fun!

Can't wait for tomorrow's scrapmeet! And the halloween party we've got planned on Sunday next! =D Party, party, party!

Lil Artist

2009-10-23T23:40:00.005+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch # 40
"Lil Artist"

A long overdue layout of my interpretation of Julie Bonner's sketch (posted 2 weeks past). I was waiting for the sun to come out these past few weeks and just my luck that it's been raining (hard) the past month.

I made this a couple of weeks before the typhoon struck the Philippines. My tito's family wasn't spared (they live in Pasig and the first floor of their 2-storey house was completely flooded). Thank God there wasn't much damage to our house in Nova. I was totally surprised about what happened in Makati though. =(

I thought our only problem would be work but guess a lot of other stuff seem to come out from the woodwork... that's life.

The Last Challenge

2009-09-23T00:01:00.006+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - August Challenge
"carefree me"

A definite sign of my slipping scrapping mojo (I can barely keep my blog updated!). This layout is waaay late but it's one of my more unique takes on SC's monthly challenges. =) It was also POTW (Pick of the Week)! Woohoo! =D

I sure am missing the group and hopefully I can still post a page or two (or more!) if time permits. I'm also keen on joining the weekly challenges at 52 Sketches but alas, no time to scrap. =( (a bit busy with work and too engrossed with "The Lost Symbol", LOL).

Oh mojo, where are you? =o

Stephanie's Blog Candy

2009-08-29T14:55:00.003+08:00

Happy Weekend! =)

I took a leave from work yesterday, feeling a little tummy flu (but mostly just escaping the office, LOL). I was *positive* I'd get a few layouts done but nooo, my mojo was nowhere to be found. I'm seeing a pattern here... I don't scrap a month or so, and then when I do start the pages just come out 1-2-3. Then I get to the 5th or 6th page then after that I totally can't make the next one. So frustrating!

So now, I'm blog-hopping to get more ideas and I stumbled on this yummy blog candy from Stephanie:

It ends on Tues. (Sept. 1).

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 157

2009-08-17T13:00:00.005+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 157
"oriental"

My take on the latest sketch from Pamela. It started out quite different (different PPs though the pink color is kind of the same). It's a bit of a stretch from the original sketch, but I just couldn't help making a layout for this photo of Kayla.

I'm gonna enter this on the {Create} challenge as well due to the paper-pieced li'l Japanese girl (At last, I did a layout with one!).

I See You!

2009-08-12T21:59:00.003+08:00

July 2009 PageMaps
"i see you!"

Something different! Yep, tried my hand at one of the sketches in PageMaps and this was what I came up with. Mr. Sun wasn't shining as brightly so I didn't get a really nice photo of the layout (the colors are a bit lighter in real life). Still, I'm very satisfied with the outcome. =)

Still loving that MLS!

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 156

2009-08-12T21:53:00.007+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 156
"my lil cook"

I did it, I did it! But I was too late sending to Pamela. =( Darn it. I was a bit too OC about adding more embellies - I just had to add the 3 li'l birdies at the bottom. MLS just makes it so easy to do cute. That and Sassafras Lass... =)

Cupcakes and Donuts

2009-08-09T09:38:00.007+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch # 31
"hey cupcake"

Why donuts? I'm eating a donut right now while trying to post (DD is being very clingy and whiny today, but maybe because she's just excited about going out to a birthday party).

Shabby Chic

2009-08-08T21:52:00.004+08:00

"Run"

How is everyone? Me... am doing great! Even if a little under the weather. Have been sick (still!) with a cold for almost 2 weeks now and even passed it on to poor li'l Jillian. We took her to the doctor because she couldn't keep her food down (seems she had a stomach virus/flu). She just needed some medicine and thank God she's all better now - just in time for Nash's first birthday party tomorrow (she's gonna be dressed up as Wonder Girl for the costume party).

Got "tickled pink" this past week and finished this layout. Then dropped by Pamela's and found this irresistible blog candy. Check it out!

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 155

2009-08-03T13:00:00.004+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 155
"The apple doesn't fall far from the tree"

This is my take on Rowee's sketch for SC. The title says it all... =D I wish I'd done some journalling on this but I didn't know where to put it. I was a little put off by the stitching here (which is awful) and I wish there was a better way I could've done it (maybe I should've used string? Same as the knots on top of the red polka-dot border).

I added the white "pompom" ribbons on friday when I visited MWL and bought (yet again!) more stash. I'm wishing I bought more than 1 meter each of those (I got them in green, black, white and pink).

Materials:
Bazzil Basics cardstock - White, GCD Studios Paris Nights Collection "Saint Martin", October Afternoon Cherry Hill "New Apron", October Afternoon "Egg Basket", Imaginisce Twitterpated "Critter Chatter", Pebbles Inc Basics "Red Flower/Dot", Maya Road "Birds of a Feather" chipboard, American Crafts Thickers "By the Yard", Icicle Stickles

Vintage

2009-08-03T00:46:00.006+08:00

"...us"

My first attempt at a kind of "vintage" look. I don't know if the camera setting was too bright but the photo I took of this layout doesn't capture as much of the distressed (or "old") look I was going for. The bling doesn't stand out as well. The Prima flowers I used are so pretty, I bought another (small) pouch which I used in another layout which I can't finish coz I'm trying to find those Prima pearl flourishes which sadly, I think, may be out of stock at the LSS here. As for the flowers, I bought 4 small pouches just today (different styles of course) and was trying to find more of those really pretty ones but I can't find 'em! *sigh*. I think I'm gonna have to shop online for those.

Materials:
My Mind's Eye The Spider's Web "Haunted Parlor" paper, KI Memories Pop Culture "Hopscotch Black", K&Co Brianna Floral Collage flat paper, Webster's Pages Sweet as Cherry Pie "...Fly a Kite", Prima Say it in crystals, Prima Gallery Roses Rousseau, Hamby Journalling bits, K&Co Grand Adhesions, My Mind's Eye Flirty "Play" mini die cut, Basic Grey Olio rub-ons, Icicle Stickles, Versa Magic - Cloud White, Dew Drop Brilliance - Graphite Black, American Crafts Thickers "By the Yard", Cosmo Cricket Fleuriste cardstock stickers

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 154

2009-07-27T22:31:00.007+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 154
"family"

Catching up, catching up! =D Sketch 155 is in the works as we speak (just putting some finishing touches). Hope I can squeeze in a layout or two so my July posts don't seem so dismal. Though, on hindsight, this July was anything but dismal - it was actually quite wonderful. =)

Forgot to mention we watched the 6th Harry Potter movie and was not disappointed. It was pretty good and surprisingly funny, and the delivery of most of the scenes appeared "sincere" (not being a movie critic here, just that it's refreshing to see acting from kids that don't totally look 'forced').

P.S. This layout is one of the many queued up for me, it's for a friend of mine (ex-office colleague) and her new family. Sweet Bettina looks so lovable with her doting parents - the little photo makes her look like she's wearing a wig. LOL.

Mini Album Challenge

2009-07-20T20:13:00.003+08:00

Gosh, I've REALLY missed scrapping. My sisters were here for 2 weeks and we naturally went on a shopping spree (needless to say my credit cards have been maxed out). So I've been missing on a lot of action on the scrapping scene and would like to get connected (even Farmtown has taken a backseat to our li'l shopping excursions).

To have finished this mini album is just the start (hopefully!), coz I bought a few WP pages (not to mention a few more thickers, ribbons, etc) last week and will definitely need to be used (and soon).

Red, White, Blue and Buttons

2009-07-02T22:04:00.004+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 150
"Cute as a button"

The little boy in the photo is Hans, the youngest son of an officemate. I think he's about 7 now and still quite cute as a button. =)

Gosh, just one more day and it'll be the weekend. Can't hardly wait!

My Girl

2009-06-28T12:45:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 149
"My Girl"

Okay, so a trip to MWL was all I really needed to keep the mojo flowing. =D Some great stuff from My Little Shoebox and Webster's Pages. I'm sooo going back this week to stock up on more stuff (and also because they've got a lot of stuff on promotion). When will the sale end?! I can't help myself!

Transformers was fun! It lifted my mood (a bit) since my sisters won't be coming here this weekend after all. We're really scared of the A(H1N1) flu and don't want to take a chance on infecting DD. I've heard the vaccine's already available but not sure if it's only in the U.S. or here in Singapore; we're still thinking that my sisters could possibly just wear N95 face masks and take a bath immediately after getting home (mom hasn't cancelled the plane tickets yet eventhough we talked about it last week). I'm not re-scheduling my leave either so whether they come here or not I'm gonna have a week off of quality time to spend with DH/DD and most probably a LOT of scrapping done. CAN'T WAIT!

Got a few more layouts done too.

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch 25
"Dad & Me"

A belated Father's Day layout I made for 52 Sketches using Webster's Pages. I didn't know their papers were so nice! I was so torn between using them immediately or just keeping them. I'm gonna have to search for them on any of the LSS's here.

And here's another layout I did for a friend. It's based on Jen Jockisch's layout "last day" (Scrapbooks Etc, May/June issue).

Dots and Stripes

2009-06-16T23:59:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Dots and Stripes
"Picture Perfect"

This layout was based on Nicole Eshelman's sketch for "No Doubt" (Scrapbooks Etc, January 2009 issue). The base PPs are from SEI and Bazzil, and the brown PP's from Pebbles.

I hope to finish another dots and stripes layout (I've still got a lot more photos from friends to scrap). Hopefully I can get inspired with the new arrivals soon (*wink* *wink*).

Mojo! Where are you? I need you! =D

My Cheeky Little Daughter

2009-06-16T23:47:00.004+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 148
"Cheeky"

It's been a while since I've posted (as usual!). I think my mojo's running low. =( I'm really wishing I could've done some more on this layout but I don't know what! (I think I need a trip to MWL or Laines very soon).

Speaking of, we're gonna watch Transformers next week at the Grand Cathay which is quite near MWL so I'm excited about that. =) I'm on a self-imposed exile - I've absolutely prohibited myself from shopping (darn this GSS!). Thank goodness it's gonna end this Friday - HAHAHAHA!

Red and Bright

2009-05-25T22:47:00.000+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch # 20
"hug"

I've been having a blast this weekend with the blog hop. A lot of people have visited all our blogs and showed a lot of love (hugs back to y'all!). =D I do hope we'll get to see you in the Scrapbook Challenges group! More wonderful and fun things to come for all of us. =)

I made this layout all bright and cheery as well... it was inspired by the cover of the Scrapbooks etc. April issue - lime green, yellow, red and aqua (with hints of brown).

Materials:

Bazzil Basics - Scalloped White, Java

Sassafras Buttercream "Bliss", SEI Bridgeport "Tennis Court", My Mind's Eye Penny Lane Free Bird "Passion", MME flower embellishment, Thickers, Doodlebug glitter brads, red polka dot ribbon, string, felt birds from decorative clothespins (from Daiso)

Personl RAK Winner - Blog Hop

2009-05-25T22:44:00.002+08:00

Hi there! I've just drawn the winner for my personal RAK. =D

Here is the list:

1. Simply Me
2. Rose Ann
3. Tami
4. Alex
5. Laura
6. Ann
7. Jenn C.
8. Luanne
9. Christina
10. Toby
11. Brandy
12. Rachelle
13. Scrappyart
14. Nanna T
15. LBMann
16. Tracie
17. Cheryl Kosakura
18. jeanie nieva
19. Benga
20. inara
21. Joann
22. krista
23. Parker and Emma's Mom
24. NanaBeth
25. scrappin{jewlz}
26. Dee Gallimore-Perry
27. Cropaddict
28. Cathy
29. wendipooh13
30. Stacy Milford
31. tammiejean
32. scrapbookmom79
33. tigardlilly
34. Rox-Ann
35. lovin2scrap (Amy in Kansa)
36. Chris
37. Tracey T
38. Cute#1
39. Audrey Huskins
40. Z

Congratulations Tracey! Please e-mail me your address (j_gaudia@yahoo.com) so I can send it to you the soonest.

Thank you everyone for joining this exciting blog hop! Stay tuned for Pamela to announce the winners for the other YUMMY RAKs!!! =D

Hope you join our li'l group at My Space - Scrapbook Challenges for the monthly prizes and hop by my blog as well as I may be giving out some other RAKs for some special occassions! =)

See y'all soon!

Scrapbook Challenges - DT Blog Hop 2009!

2009-05-24T22:48:00.001+08:00

Hi there! Hope you've dropped by for the SCRAPBOOK CHALLENGES BLOG HOP! And if not, what are you waiting for? Join us and hop on first to Pamela's World of Scrap!

Why join the blog hop? Here are just a few of the yummy goodies you'll be getting and what you need to do to get 'em:

1. Leave a comment on ALL the blogs participating on the hop and have a chance to win the May Scarlet Lime Kit!

2. Make a layout based on the sketch below and get a chance to win a kit from Studio Calico and the stamp set! Note: Pls post it on either Pamela's blog or Scrapbook Challenges group.

Here's the sketch for you to have fun with! I know I did, coz I made two. =D

3. Answer the special DT questionnaire and get a chance to win this awesome stamp set from Unity Stamp! Please e-mail the answers to: pamelacy@msn.com. =)

Here are the questions:

a.) Which one of the DT members can taste something from a restaurant 1 - 2 times and recreate that meal? (Such an AWESOME skill by the way)
b.) Which member of the DT almost made it to the national fencing team when she was in college?
c.) Which DT member daydreams of painting her mustang Barbie pink?
d.) Which Scrapbook Challenges DT member was missing from our blog hop this weekend?

4. Leave a comment on Pamela's blog and you get a chance to win this personal RAK from her!

5. Leave a comment on my blog and tell me a random fact about Lily to get a chance to win this personal RAK from me!

International entries are welcome! Winners will be posted on May 25th! Now don't forget to HOP ON TO THE NEXT BLOG! It's our wonderful and talented DT member Cathy Beisher!

Thanks for stopping by and hope you had fun! Some little trivia about me as you leave on your quest:

1. I have a little daughter named Jillian who was born on the same day I married the love of my life. =)
2. I love coffee! My whole family would collect Starbucks mugs too...
3. I'm currently going gaga over Bo Bunny or SEI papers, K&Co or Doodlebug embellishments, and possibly can't scrap without Thickers.
4. I almost made it to the national fencing team when I was in college.
5. I let DH "quality check" my layouts.
6. I'm playing Farm Town on Facebook, so you can also come chat and harvest on "Bunny's Farm"! =P

It's coming!

2009-05-21T18:10:00.002+08:00

Primary Colors

2009-05-18T00:38:00.003+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch # 4

"From A to Zzz"

I just submitted my latest challenge for SC - Primary Colors. I made sure to check all the previous challenges as I recently found out my "Black and White" challenge was already posted by different DTs not once, but twice! (And here I thought I was being creative, lol). I added a twist on this, for a real challenge, and came up with using fruits.

At the same time, I've been in a slump lately (not to mention, been under the weather) so I needed a boost to get my mojo going so I turned to 52's 4th sketch and came up with this bright, cheery page (reminiscent of grade school).

But fave thing about it is probably the title. =) Not too sure if I've seen it somewhere before but it really fit into the whole color-scheme, theme and feel of the page.

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 142

2009-05-13T00:14:00.004+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 142
"My Prince"

I really adore this photo of Amy and her son "Nash" (yes, the same little boy born on Singapore's birthday, hence the nickname), it's one of her facebook profile pics and I used it to make this layout as a gift for her. We went to their house last saturday and Jillian had a blast (she was dancing and banging her head to Amy' friends' on "Rock Band"). I had a blast eating the food. The spaghetti, carbonara and cake were all simply yummy!

The origin of "chipmunk"

2009-05-10T12:54:00.003+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch # 18
"chipmunk"

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all the mom's out there! Here's a little page I'd like to share (made for 52's latest sketch). =)

Journalling:
"chipmunk is the name mom and dad gave me because my cheeks were so big when I was a still a baby. My other nickname: ka-baby"

Materials:
Bazzil Basics - white, java, light beige; My Little Shoebox, Enjoy Life "Circle of Friends"; White Out, Nonsense "Silly Sally"; Imaginisce, Foxy & Friends chipboard stickers; ribbon

At the moment, Jillian is watching "Chicken Little" surrounded by my scrap stuff (chipboard alphas, strips of PPs, buttons, etc), and her puzzle pieces while her dad's taking a bath. This leaves me with some blog updating time (perfect!). It's raining out and we're not sure if we're going to the mall or not (I'd like to avoid the crowds). We'll see later.

TFL!

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 141

2009-05-05T23:46:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 141
"me"

And here's my take on this week's sketch. Notice that I'm still using the papers I bought from Urban Write: Pebbles Basics White Circle/Stripe, Basics Baby Pink Flourish and SEI Chocolat, with a little of my old stash mixed in: KI Memories lace cardstock Heartbeat Pure and Posies Pinata. Embellishments: Making Memories Shimmer Jigsaw, Pebbles Chips, Bazzil Basics white and Vellum.

It's too bad this didn't make it to the {Create} "Snip, Snip" challenge (this is the first time I cut out the subject of the photo) but I hope it's not the last of the layouts I'll be doing with a lot of hand-cutting.

TFL!

Mama's Boy

2009-05-03T10:29:00.004+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch #17
"Mama's Boy"

Just uploaded this page today and I'm thinking there are too few embellishments on this one (like the swirls from the sketch). Then again, it would look too girly considering the photo is of Janis and Sebastian. I do love the color for a boy's page (I seem to always use orange for some reason) and the pink is muted so it adds a cute touch (for Janis).

Materials:
Cardstock - Bazzil Basics in White, Java; Pebbles Inc Basics white circle/stripe, Basics sun yellow flower/dot, Skipping Along Collection "Carefree"; SEI Chick-a-dee; Thickers Shoebox, ribbon and mini brads

My Birthday Wishes

2009-04-29T00:49:00.004+08:00

I received this lovely tag from Annie and Sookie (so sorry took so long for me to post this!). It was fun reading your wishes and I think I kind of "borrowed" some of them (not surprising eh?).

Here's what I need to do:

1. Make a list of what you want for your birthday.
2. The list should be 10 numbers.
3. Include the image of this award on your post.
4. Give it to 10 friends.

My list:

1. 3 weeks vacation (including 1 week at a fab resort somewhere like the Maldives or Koh Samui, I can dream!) with my family
2. A free makeover (possibly with a goody bag, lol)
3. DVD collections of my fave T.V. series
4. Definitely a scraproom!!! (not just a scrap table, hee hee)
5. Loads of scrap supplies (kits would be nice!)
6. A nice tote bag that's not too big and not too small (for scrapmeets)
7. No production problems until 2012!
8. Lower rent
9. Take advantage of a really great sale (scrap supplies, clothes, etc.)
10. Health, wealth and prosperity =D

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 140

2009-04-29T00:10:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch # 140

"Mom & Me"

Gosh, just a few more days and it's mother's day! Needless to say, it inspired me to do a special layot for this week's sketch... that and of course the butterflies! How can I possibly resist?

Materials:
Bazzil Basics Light Yellow, Little Yellow Bicycle D105 Butterfly with glitter, SEI monogram die-cuts, Piggy Tales chipboard alphas, Jenni B metallic butterflies, Thickers Sprinkles, Doodlebug Boutique trims, Doodlebug paper frills, Basic Grey chipboard stickers

Sadly lacking in this layout is the journalling. Then again I don't think I could've squeezed anything else as the letters I used for the title are a bit big (hee hee).

My first sketch at 52 Sketches!

2009-04-27T20:56:00.003+08:00

52 Sketches 52 Weeks - Sketch # 16
"gifts!"

So I'm trying my hand at creating a few more layouts and finally got up the courage to enter 52 Sketches. Here's my entry to last week's and it turned out pretty well. The background PP is (yes!) from my SEI "collection" bought last week, the light aqua PP is from a K&Co paper pack that I won from waaay back (almost a year ago). The white ribbon is the last few inches from the one given by Lia from 2 years ago (I really believe in using every piece!).

What I love about this is, apart from the light color (which is not the usual red and green), I used something new (at least for me) - sticking some cotton string to the inner edge of the shaped paper.

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 139

2009-04-21T22:29:00.002+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 139
"Maika"

This is a long overdue layout (Veron! Heto na ang isa sa mga utang ko sa iyo. Hope you're liking the white space on this one). I love the swirls (from the White Out collection) and will probably be using it on another layout. =) The flower "window" is actually a die-cut label. I cut out the middle portion to make something new out of it, added glitter so the white doesn't look so drab.

The green PP I used is from Bo Bunny (I'm simply loving the Alissa line). Speaking of lines, there's a new "LSS" near our office (opened up in the new mall - Tampines 1). The shop is called "Urban Write" and currently it sells Pebbles Inc and S-E-I (hopefully more brands and products will come in, once they see scrap products are a huge seller). I've already bought the S-E-I papers (unfortunately the one with the glitter butterflies were sold out, *sigh*) and will be posting some new layouts using that line soon.

Ang mga taga-Tampines, pare-pareho ang mga papel! Hahahaha!

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 138

2009-04-21T22:15:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 138

"Scrap Family"

I completely forgot about sharing this page! And this was one of my more "creative" ones yet. The leaves were from my stash of scraps. After downloading a nice picture of a leaf (can't remember if it was from a stamp or rub-on), I used the craft robo to cut several pieces from different PPs. The trunk of the tree was hand-cut (patterned after a die-cut from a Halloween layout I saw in a magazine). The birds are from a Christmas PP.

Sayang wala sina Marix, Andros, Maps and Chinqui, para kumpleto sana. Hmmm, I think I still have that photo of the very first Anniversary. =D

Hope you're having a great week!

Bugs

2009-04-20T17:16:00.004+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Bold and Beautiful
"Squish"

I was trying for a dramatic effect when I took this photo. I didn't expect that Jillian would make it a comedy. If you look closely, she's actually looking at a bug and her foot is poised to squish it.

Happy Easter!

2009-04-13T00:13:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Make your own shaped paper
"Look @ Me"

Time does fly... I remember a post I made on Easter for the first challenge I sponsored for Scrappersatsg (the one where you hide an easter egg in your layout?) and now I'm posting this latest one I made for Pinky's last challenge ever for SC (really sad to see her go).

Looking at Jillian's photos here remind me that she's really growing up fast as well. I mean, she's already reached the height requirement for the MRT (though the good people at the station told us she was "borderline" and didn't make us buy a full-priced EZ-Link card). She's starting to sit through full-length animation movies (her fave last week was "Mulan", and just this weekend "Shark Tale") and she cries at the sad bits too.

Sometimes I wonder about her sense of humor... like the time she was watching Monster's Inc and she decided to call "Sully" Daddy. Guess who "Mommy" was? Mike Wazowski! (the monster with the one eye?)... and she totally KNOWS I don't like it! She calls that monster "Mommy" each and every time we watch that movie! (well, only at that point where Mike appears on screen the first time). She even makes sure to look at me and her daddy when she does it (with an impish smile).

My little weirdo...

Something to remember us by...

2009-04-09T00:15:00.003+08:00

Humor me please... I had to give Beth an ATC with my photo. Actually, we all had to make one (and put our personal e-mails on the back of each) so she'd have scrap-related keepsakes of us made especially for her (hmmm, sounds suspiciously like the way she made us give her layouts to fill her album).

I don't know if I just got too used to scrapping Jillian's photos or what, but whenever I do a project with my photo in it it looks really corny. LOL

But seriously, I'm kinda liking the whole black, white, green and red color scheme. It's a welcome change from my usual pastel and pink.

Can't wait for tomorrow! Coz it's a holiday on Friday! Yippee!

But I gotta work on Saturday.... *groan*

No wonder I'm in a "black and white" (mostly black!) mood.

In Black and White

2009-04-09T00:07:00.002+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Black and White
"Divas"

If you look closely at the part of the photo nearest the head of the butterfly you'll see pieces of the rub-ons that CJ used on her original layout. I couldn't let this photo go to waste though, so I asked for it. Besides, I wanted to give CJ a layout to remember Beth by as well (nakabuo ka nanaman ng isang album ha! Don't forget to share it when you're in NZ na!).

I lifted this from Vicki Boutin's work ("Lucky In Love") in the Feb 2009 edition of Scrapbooks Etc. I guess the term should be "carbon-copied" because I didn't just lift the sketch but even the colors and placement of embellishments. But I'm very glad I got to use these four old PPs of mine.

I've really got to use all the old ones before I buy any new ones! Aaargh...

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 137

2009-04-08T23:44:00.006+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 137
"Cheese!"

>April 4 was our surprise "despedida" for Beth (aka Cute#1). She's off to New Zealand to stamp some sheep (maybe milk a few cows as well). The e-mails were sent saying that the Scrappersatsg Anniversary scrapmeet was going to be held at Maps' place, but in secret everyone knew that it was going to be for Beth. The last-minute surprise was when the venue was changed... we were going to meet up at Beth's place instead.

So we waited by the lobby, it was pouring real hard for a few minutes but luckily it let up by the time everyone arrived. Abby brought these really cute and delicious chocolate-coated desserts on a stick, which their taxi driver kept asking about (kulit ni uncle).

Sookie called to ask if Beth was ready to go and we relaxed when we heard she still hadn't gone out of the house (the "Anniversary" was scheduled at 1:30 PM, it was already two). We went up the elevator and waited just outside her room. She was shocked, of course, upon seeing us there. But I think she had some doubts when the food being prepared at her house looked too much like the food we usually order on our scrapmeets. =D

I made this layout for her after our little "pictorial" in her bedroom (red background or grey?).

I'm gonna miss you Beth!!!

And remember - if you find a Spotlight in New Zealand, you don't need to be a Permanent Resident to get a discount.

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 136

2009-04-08T23:33:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 136

"Birds"

I probably didn't do justice to this pretty sketch so in the near future I'm gonna have to make another one. Although, I must say that I'm glad I bought new PPs. One because it gave me a momentary (and fleeting) "high" which also made me forget the past 2 weeks of work (dang, they're really getting their money's worth these days), and second because it gave me a boost on the "creativity" department. I'm so into these bird cages... and birds... little wonder why I used this photo.

I'm also liking the mixed thickers for the title (and of course the glitter!). I don't think I'll ever stop using Stickles or any PP with a little sparkle.

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 135

2009-04-08T23:23:00.005+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 135
"Luau"

Gosh, I've been out of it lately (low on mojo, high on work, etc). You can probably see it here (nothing really new, *sigh*). Maybe it was just I didn't have anything new to play with *wink* *wink*.

Used up one of the rub-ons I acquired recently and I wish I'd bought some more (in black).

Play Play...

2009-03-23T23:06:00.003+08:00

Another layout to share! It's part of the birthday album for Ninna's daughter Ella. I'm thinking of adding a few more short journal strips but I'm afraid it might look too cluttered. Hoping to get more inspiration from my blog-hopping adventures.

Speaking of birthdays, we went to a really rockin' birthday party the weekend before last. It was a Mickey Mouse themed one and organized by Beth, Marix, and Sookie's group (AWESOME job girls!).

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 134

2009-03-23T22:56:00.003+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges Sketch 134

"Candle Blowing"

I've been AWOL for a while again but that doesn't mean I haven't been busy with my fave hobby. =) I also skipped one of the sketches, but that doesn't mean I'm not gonna do it (it's just too cute to miss!). I'm just waiting for the right time to visit an LSS and splurge a bit (I'm itching to find the "perfect" papers/embellies to go with the stacks of photos I have yet to scrap).

Of gifts and candies

2009-03-08T18:20:00.005+08:00

{Create} - 3 Photo Challenge
"my gifts"

Here's another layout for Ella, which I'm entering into {Create}'s March challenge. I'm very pleased to note that for birthday layouts (with photos of a lot of stuff) pastels and bright colors (especially red) complement each other quite well.

And while hopping to Marix's site today, I found this blog candy from Deb. Hope you can join in the fun!

TFL!

March Challenge

2009-03-08T17:56:00.002+08:00

For my challenge on March 6 for Scrapbook Challenges, I chose to go with a "birthday"-inspired layout. Firstly, because I'm currently doing a series of pages for a friend (with a lot of photos still to go!) and Secondly, because two of my sisters were born on March 6 (4 years apart but on the same day).

This one was lifted from Amy Licht's layout "Birthday Cake".

Ella

2009-03-08T17:26:00.002+08:00

Here's another scrap-lifted layout for Ella. Mommy Ninna was browsing thru my magazines and found a layout she liked - Kris Parkin's "Kyle" (from Designing Scrapbooks 2).

Instead of using a magnetic journal for the fold-up "birthday" sentiment, I folded up a thin piece of patterned paper and weighed it down with pieces of metallic embellishments hidden underneath the cupcake.

Post-Valentines Scrapmeet

2009-03-08T16:57:00.004+08:00

First scrapmeet of the year - Feb. 15 at our place with two moms - Ninna and Veron. So much scrapstuff girls! =D I wish it didn't have to end so soon but all our kids were missing us.

To help first-time scrapper Ninna, I did this layout of adorable Ella:

And followed-up with a scrap-lifted one (from a layout of Carla Schauer titled "Super Star" for Marvy Uchida) for her first-born Mabel Ann:

To re-create the punched out shapes, we just used scalloped scissors. TFL!

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 132

2009-03-08T16:50:00.002+08:00

I made this layout Sunday last week and was just too busy to post (even on SC group). I loved making the owl and hand-cut the oh-so-cute paper from We R Memory Keepers White-Out collection (Nonsense -Sing Song). I just wish I had more photos to keep true to the sketch.

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 131

2009-02-24T22:20:00.005+08:00

I absolutely love this sketch and I've been trying to find a way to incorporate a tree somewhere in a layout. I'm hoping that with the scrapmeet we've got planned for this weekend I'll be able to use this sketch again. =D

Materials:

Bazzil Basic - white, powder blue, blackbird; We R Memory Keepers White Out "Explore"; Chatter Box kit "Gazebo"; KI Memories "It's a Girl" Dreams; K & Co Berry Sweet Grand Adhesions; Kaiser rhinestones; Thickers Sprinkles; Luxe Lace rub-ons; ribbons.

The tree was made by stamping the circle pieces (Kitchen Sink Stamps and Brilliance ink in graphite black). The trunk was made from cardstock (hand-cutting).

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 130

2009-02-21T00:41:00.006+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 130
"Jumper Girl"

It's still "Valentines Month" so I'm featuring red (or pink) in most of my pages (if I'm unable to do the "romantic" look, hee hee). And speaking of "pink", I'm tickled pink that I was able to finish 3 of the 4 projects on my plate (okay, okay, 2 of those were combined in one layout - Pinky's challenge and the page for Tyra). I wish I could continue this creative streak (I feel my mojo is running out, *sigh*).

Materials:

Bazzil Basics white, powder blue, red; Bo Bunny "Flirty Thrill"; White Out Promenade "Ferris Wheel"; Thickers Poolside

12 x 12 Frame

2009-02-21T00:23:00.004+08:00

Unlike my previous gift, I wanted the layout of Tyra I gave to be framed. I've been searching for a cheap 12 x 12 here and I thought I could find one in Ikea. There was one worth $29 that was okay (even if it was 19 3/4 x 19 3/4) but it was really too heavy. So instead of buying it, I bought only the picture (worth $10) and decided to alter the cardboard backing.

Here's what I did.

Step 1: Measure 2 inches from the edge of the picture in the middle (not from the actual, white, outer edge).

Step 2: From the picture cut-out, measure 1 inch from the (outer) edge on the cardboard. The cardboard should be an inch bigger on all sides than the picture. Adhere the picture to the middle of the cardboard.

Step 3: Cut the extra pieces of cardboard in strips with each edge cut diagonally (as below). These 4 strips of cardboard will form the square "frame" around the picture.

Step 4: Cut the extra pieces of white paper into strips and wrap them over the cardboard strips. I used transparent wrapping tape on the underside.

Step 5: Adhere the strips of cardboard (wrapped in white) to the main cardboard backing, forming a frame. I used a glue gun because it adheres fast.

Step 6: I used photo corners to adhere the page (instead of sticking it directly on the paper). This way, the frame can be re-used for another layout.

Another good thing about this is, you can opt to decorate the frame too (I hope to try that soon).

Adore

2009-02-14T01:26:00.007+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges

"Adore"

Tyra's mom (Vek) will be celebrating her birthday today (on Valentine's!). My gift is this page of her in all her cuteness. This little princess will be meeting my little princess and both will be asserting their reign on Vek's 3-bedroom unit in Montreal Drive.

What's missing is the "frame" (watch out for that in my next post!). =D

Materials:

Bazzil Basics - white, Just Dreamy 2, Doodle Bug Glitter PP, Chatter Box Gazebo Kit, Basic Grey chipboard stickers, K & Co Wedding grand adhesions, Thickers accents, Kaiser rhinestones, crystals, lace, pearl

The Love Challenge

2009-02-14T01:01:00.005+08:00

"Love is not love which alters when it alteration finds,
Or bends with the remover to remove:
Oh no! It is an ever-fixed mark
that looks on tempests and is never shaken!"

William Shakespeare

8 minutes past the hour of 1 on Valentine's day and here I am, sitting in bed uploading photos of my latest layouts with dear ol' hubby clicking away (slowly) on his mini notebook. Yep, we're two very romantic souls. =P

Scrappersatsg "Love Challenge"
"Diva"

Let's see... my Blogversary came and went, and I have been scrapping for almost a year and a half now, and I discovered something funny. I'm unable to scrap without using store-bought materials.

So for the latest challenge at Scrappersatsg, where we're supposed to use old-fashioned art supplies and re-used materials (none of which can be store-bought or scrap-related), I actually used magazine clippings from none other than - yes! - a scrapbook magazine.

Aren't I devious?

What's more, the base material is acetate so I was able to "create" two alternate versions of the same layout. The background for both these versions are the backs of magazines which I didn't cut out! Such a cheat!

To prove it, here are the magazine pages where I got the "embellishments":

As much as it pained me to cut them, I really had no choice.. And besides, the backs of these pages mostly didn't contain any layouts.

You gotta admit though, in these times of financial unbalance, it pays to be thrifty. =D

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 129

2009-02-10T20:10:00.004+08:00

"I *heart* U"

Love, love, love pink and green! And I also used my new "loot" (chipboard stickers and PP). We had a cutover on Saturday and I treated myself to a bit of shopping (of course I blew my budget, when haven't I?). =P

I've got a ton of projects to do and I wish I could do all of 'em at the same time. I hope to get these done:

1. One layout for Pinky's challenge
2. One layout for Allie (using my new stamps!)
3. One layout for Tyra (due on Saturday!)
4. One mini album for Cheryl (still waiting for the photos though...)

Jerome's calling me for dinner so I better get to it.

*sigh* Saturday's sooo far away.

Hope

2009-02-09T23:17:00.003+08:00

Hope... this looks finished! LOL =D.

This was supposed to be my entry for the Scrappersatsg "Hope" challenge (and Scrap Challenges' "Cluster" challenge too) but I ran out of steam. I was thinking of putting "you don't change" or "you stay as sweet" somewhere below the main title but I really can't seem to position it anywhere (I don't even know what font, thicker, etc to use... aaargh, so frustrating).

And so, I have this.

I'm still loving the paper though (bling will never go away!).

Kitchen Sink Stamps!

2009-02-02T23:15:00.006+08:00

I'm a very happy bunny! =D I got the "Pretty Petals" stamp set and a super-cute owl stamp from the wonderful people of Kitchen Sink Stamps (Thanks so much Maria and Pamela!). Suffice it to say I'm currently thinking of the layouts and cards I'll be making from them. Ecstatic = Me!

In the meantime, here are some cards to share. Happy Monday!

Mini Album Mania (cover)

2009-01-27T14:11:00.002+08:00

Materials:

Cardstock: Bazzil Basic - light pink

PP: Sei "Chick-A-Dee", ; Bo Bunny "Sweetie Pie Swoon"; Grant coordinating PP; KI Memories "It's a Girl Dreams"; Serendipity "Blue Boutique" Treasure; Francheville Blueberry & Cream Delight; Rhonna Farrer "The Dove"; DCWV Blossoms & Butterflies; etc.

Embellishments: Doodle Bug paper frills, glitter brads; Francheville button brads; Prima flowers; La-Di-Dah felt stickers; Making Memories shimmer chipboard alphas; American Crafts
rub-ons; Thickers glitter letters, tinsel accents; Luxe rub-ons; We R Memory Keepers White Out layered chipboard; 7 Gypsies Photograhie journal sickers; Adorn-It build-a-flower stickers; Cloud 9 layer-me rub ons; Royal & Langnickel rub-on sentiments; ribbons (purple, white, pink, yellow, green, etc)

Mini Album Mania (pages 2-6)

2009-01-27T14:04:00.001+08:00

More photos!

Mini Album Mania

2009-01-27T13:56:00.002+08:00

Hurray for me! I got Kyla's 7th birthday gift done! The party's scheduled this weekend and I asked her mom (Allie) to give me 6-10 photos since I was planning on giving a mini album as a gift. I really hope both of them will like it.

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 127

2009-01-27T00:05:00.007+08:00

GONG XI FA CHAI!

This afternoon, Jillian was woken up from her nap (30 min into it) by the dragon dance downstairs and I was pleasantly surprised to find that she didn't quite cry as hard as I expected. She was even a little curious to see what the ruckus was about (we couldn't see from the 4th floor).

Her daddy was sleeping on the couch after watching a DVD and played with her for a while. Afterwards, they went downstairs to take a dip in the pool. We'll probably go out to town tomorrow (we avoided the crowds today) and hope to take pics of her in her new cheongsam.

And for SC Sketch 127, I re-photographed my layout this morning (in direct sunlight). I just can't get enough of K&Co embellies (there goes my new year's resolution not to buy any scrap supplies in January).

Materials - Bazzil Basics light brown, white, light yellow, Grant cardstock - neon light green, Creative Imaginations "Narratives", Doodle Bug Limeade Serenade, Sei Chick-A-Dee, Chip Chatter Gellies, K&Co Berry Sweet grand adhesions, Me & My Big Ideas embellished chipboard, Heidi Swapp Bling frames, yellow and brown ribbon, Icicle stickles.

The Cardstock Challenge

2009-01-25T20:55:00.002+08:00

Scrapbook Challenges
"Funbowl"

It's a nice Sunday night, the second day of the long weekend and I've already started on the mini book birthday gift for an office colleague's daughter (photos to follow, I've still got 5 pages to go on that one).

Here's my take on Sookie's challenge. I used more than 3 cardstocks on this one (I think 6 or more). A few mini brads, Luxe rub-ons and glitter chipboards to "finish" it off (yup, "finish" in quotes because I think it's too simple... kinda lacking in something - embellishments, journalling, etc).

Scrappalific Award!

2009-01-20T23:10:00.004+08:00

Hoo-whee!!! Thank you Thank you Marix for these Addictive awards! =D

Mention 5 addictions and pass on the award to 5 other fab blogs!

1. Sudoku (I'll stop one day but if I start on another one of these puzzles it'll be weeks before I stop again)
2. Scrapbooking (I honestly get cranky when I don't get to scrap within a week)
3. Shopping (hee hee)
4. Gossip Girl (the T.V. series is a little different from the books)
5. Haagen-Dazs Coffee ice cream (sweet addiction indeed!)

And now, here are the terrific ladies I'd like to pass these awards to:

Abby
Beth
Lily
Marilyn
Sookie

Happy scrapping!

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 126

2009-01-20T22:24:00.005+08:00

I've been wanting to buy this premium stack for a while now but it was only during December's promo season that I decided to finally indulge. DCWV's Blossoms & Butterflies stack is so cute! I hope it'll last me for at least 5 more month.

Jerome actually smiled when he first saw this layout - clean lines, geometric shapes and no white space (nuff said).

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 125

2009-01-19T23:58:00.008+08:00

Materials:

Bo Bunny "Sweetie Pie" & "Sweetie Pie Swoon", KI Memories "Memories Spice", pink vellum, La-Di-Dah felt stickers, white cardstock, white Sakura gel pen

Happy Tuesday! I finished Pamela's Sketch 125 friday night (attended a wedding on Saturday and got side-tracked). Jerome photographed it on Sunday morning and then we had to go out that afternoon so I only got to upload it last night.

I'm getting addicted to these sketches! And I still plan on making Brynn and Marilyn's challenges. So I'm off to make more, wish me luck! (Somewhere in between I hope to make some more cards).

Scrapbook Challenges - Sketch 124

2009-01-15T00:59:00.003+08:00

I finally managed to finish the layout of cute#1's photo. I've been stuck with it for a month now and without this sketch I think it would take another month for me to finish (thanks to Scrapbook Challenges!).

I really have to get the creative juices flowing because Sketch 125 is out! I resolve to make it by friday! That and my personal list of goals for January. Hope you're having a great week!

Star Celebrations

2009-01-15T00:41:00.004+08:00

Having landed in Changi airport on Friday, I can say three things:

1. I miss my family and how everything seems to be happier in good ole Phil.
2. I miss the food (and the malls! Especially the great, new big sprawling ones)
3. I don't miss the traffic (and the crowds)

Going back to work after having spent Christmas, Jillian's birthday (in Tagaytay), Jillian's party (in Makati), New Year's, and my birthday is like being dropped into the ocean after having a short but enjoyable roller coaster ride.

In any case, here are some pics of the invites we sent:

Mom's trying to see if any of her friends are interested in having their children's invitations made by us. Hope it's the start of a business venture (keeping my fingers crossed!).

Happy New Year!

2009-01-15T00:20:00.002+08:00

A little late but I still wanted to share the absolutely, positively GREAT news. Pamela has so graciously accepted me as one of the DTs of Scrapbook Challenges! I was really and truly bouncing up and down with joy! And very, very grateful for the opportunity (quite humbled by the works of the talented bunch).

At the same time, Jennifer from ScrapStreet.com has informed me that my work ("Apple of my eye") will be part of Chic Street (ecstatic = me).

http://www.scrapstreet.com/mag2009/January09/fixtures/chic2.htm

What a great end to 2008 and a wonderful start to 2009!

Tis the season to share

2008-12-08T23:16:00.004+08:00

In 15 minutes it'll be 15 days to go til Christmas, and in 12 days we'll be back home (in good ol' Philippines) to spend the holidays with family. I can hardly wait! My sister (Kathy) and I have been exchanging mails and counting down the days. They're more excited about seeing their niece than seeing me. My mom and dad are a tad more excited (if that's possible) and have been helping to plan their first grand-daughter's second birthday. I swear if it weren't for them we'd only be having a modest get-together at home, but it seems they've invited their own friends (apart from our relatives) and now we've got a full-blown party. The theme this year is "stars" (colors: pink and silver) and I've only just started to make the invitation (design and message). Good thing the venue (catered food) have been handled so the decorations, guest list and loot bags are the only things left. *sigh*

On a good note, at work our last cutover was done (with a snag, but thank God it was fixed!) and I also got this layout I've been planning to make for Ces (my mommy at the scrapping monito-monita) done:

I've been dying to lift Jamie Waters work "Kira" (from Scrapbooks Etc, October issue) but didn't know what photo to use. This was definitely a stroke of luck and I find that making use of real scraps for the background saves on paper aside from making a great backdrop for the white lace cardstock. I definitely plan to do this again since I had great fun making it.

I'd also like share these great works from Ces and Andros from our recent scrapmeet, aren't they just so sweet?

And finally, a thank you card that I made from a few weeks back. I'm hoping I can get more cards made since work is supposed to slow down this season.

Happy Holidays and thanks for looking!

Rain

2008-12-03T22:12:00.003+08:00

"Rain"

The last challenge we had was to create a layout for our mom/dad so I made this one of Rain (at the pool of a condo here - Sunglade). Ate Rowee liked it! (which made me doubly happy!) but I really wish I had more embellishments and more time to finish this properly. =)

After 10

2008-11-29T23:52:00.005+08:00

It's eleven o'clock now and I've just tucked myself in for the night after a day of scrapping with the ladies of Scrappersatsg.

It was our Annual Christmas Party (yup, in November!) and it was definite blast! We started off with a guessing game for our Monito-Monita (Secret Santa). My Monito (or Monita?) was Andros and here are the layouts I made (which I couldn't post immediately because it would give me away).

"All Smiles"

The challenge went something like this:

Something round and something clear, so sorry that deadline is near... Then, add something hard, definitely not lard.

"Fab Five"

The second challenge mechanics were:

Something long, something small, that's not all but you'll never go wrong then add something soft to finish it off.

The last challenge was to make a layout for your mom/dad. Mine was Cecel and I decided on 2 photos - one of Rain (her niece) and she and her husband. I wasn't able to take a picture of the finished layout of Rain but I intend to finish the one I have of her (and her husband) and photograph it soon.

2008-11-10T01:58:00.003+08:00

{Create} Challenge
"Funny Pink Riding Hood'

Eye of newt, toe of frog, adder's fork, lizard's leg and fillet of a fenny snake, those are the ingredients for this latest concoction of mine. Thanks to the sweet and encouraging words (and works) from fellow scrappers, I've been inspired to finish this entry to Sookie's "witchy" November challenge for {Create}. My only problem with it are that the "swirls" may not look like swirls (but they are!).

Materials:

Bazzil Blackbird, White and Light Pink, Grant Brights Pink, Sassafras Serendipity "Sunshine Lollipop", Doodlebug Limeade Serenade, KI Memories Pop Culture, Basic Grey chip stickers, Bag o' buttons, Francheville mini brads. and white metallic clip.

Techniques:

Handcutting, Used decorative scissors and Craft Robo (lettering)

Hope everyone has a great week!

The Apple of My Eye

2008-11-07T01:16:00.006+08:00

HMITM # 92
"The Apple of My Eye"

I've been struggling to finish this Sunday night but I wasn't able to. I've been having "scrapper's block" (is there even such a word?) for a while and I can't seem to finish a layout. I'll start off strong, maybe even lay out the details and embellishments, then half-way through I'll change my mind and use a different design/element.

For this challenge, we needed to make use of 9 different colored cardstock and 2 staples. After finally managing to make use of 9, I couldn't factor in the staples so I left it at that (or I wouldn't be able to finish!). The butterflies were cut using Craft Robo (the big ones are paper-piecings, tedious but worth it!), and even the bright green "lace cardstock" with apple print was cut using that machine (too bad it can't cut 12 x 12 paper or I'd be making lace cardstocks by the bulk).

Our Monito-Monita at Scrappersatsg has started and I can't wait to scrap!

All Boxed Up

2008-10-28T01:33:00.004+08:00

Kayang-kaya Kaya Challenge # 18
"All Boxed Up"

My first ever entry to the Pinoyscrapbookers blog (aka Kaya Challenge). And since it was hosted by the talented Marix I just can't help but join. I had a great time thinking of ways to make this layout "edgy". The edges on the cardstock were hand-cut (after tracing from a PP). The same goes for the orange PP.

I'm loving all the new glitter lace cardstock (bought me some "glitter" patterned papers from MWL just last weekend). Which reminds me... I need to post in the MWL forum so I can swop some of my "monster" coupons-cum-puzzle so I can finally complete one picture. I'll try to post here as well. =) On a side-note, I drew one of those 40% and 25% off (whole purchase!) coupons and can't wait to use 'em.

Now I need to create 1 more layout for a challenge (Color Combos or HMITM), 2 non-related-challenge layouts, finally get starting on that mini album (sadly methinks this will not be done in time for christmas this year given the current state of things), revamp the look of my blog and those tags!

Thank You cards

2008-10-28T01:26:00.004+08:00

It's been weeks since I've posted, and not half of my goal list has been ticked off... *sigh*... but I'm trying! Yes indeed-y... I finished these cards (and 8 more 6x6 ones) just today and I must say it was no easy feat (given that I've been going crazy with work nowadays).

The photos of Nash go inside. Hopefully mommy A will like 'em. =)

and bushy tailed

2008-10-05T22:52:00.005+08:00

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 24
"Bright Eyed Little Baby"

Jillian was 4 months and 9 days old when we had her christened. Her head was balding in places and the few pictures we got (showing the back of her head) were hilarious.

This was one of the few photos (taken by Tanya) that were decent enough to scrap.

The original title I had in mind for this page was "Bright-eyed and bushy tailed" but I didn't know if all the Thickers/stickers would fit (I had a hard time just thinking of all the 24 stickers I had to use!). In the end, it looked okay. The color scheme is nice, (obviously) bright, and not my usual safe, pastel colors.

I've been too busy at work so I think I'll give myself some creative time (I think I'm experiencing some withdrawal symptoms from not having scrapped for so long). So here's my goal list for the month to keep the creative juices flowing and to balance out my daily routine:

1. Create at least 3 layouts for 3 different challenges. Bonus: I need to use bright colors or at least not my "usual" color scheme.
2. Create a mini album for mom (for when we go home in Dec.)
3. Create a new banner for my blog and update the color scheme (white?)
4. Create tags for our christmas gifts.
5. Create 2 new cards and 2 new layouts (not related to any challenges)

Flying High...

2008-09-30T00:58:00.003+08:00

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 23
"Flyer"

It's been a while since I posted. I wish I had more time to do this challenge (I love both ads!) but work won't permit me. I'm missing my scrapmates as well, hope we can get together soon.

Smiles and tears...

2008-09-10T00:00:00.003+08:00

"Smiles"

Thanks so much Marix! Such a sweet gesture... super bait mo talaga! :) and I really appreciate all your wonderful comments.

I would like to pass this award to those whose sites I frequent as well:

Michelle - a lovely lady with a very creative soul
CJ - a fantastic scrapper with a bright personality
Abby - a sweet lady with a knack for making unique projects (and layouts of course!)

Check out their fantastic creations!

"Tears"

I bought "New Moon" today and couldn't help but start reading immediately. I've only read until Chapter 4 and I can't remember the last time a book touched me as much (nakaka-iyak! Gosh, I feel like a teenager instead of a mom...).

Two for the road

2008-09-07T21:04:00.005+08:00

Card Maps (Sept 08)
"Smile"

Two (very simple) cards I did last night. I'm hoping my card skills will kick in thru practice. =)

"Miracle"

September's here! Just a few more months and it's Christmas, right? So here's my first card of the season. =D

This takes the cake...

2008-09-06T16:41:00.002+08:00

Tadaa... after days of "baking" and decorating, it's finally finished. My 4-tier diaper cake for Alex.

Materials: 1-inch ribbon (Celebrate) in red and dark blue, blue satin Craft ribbon, 2-inch baby-blue glitter ribbon, and thread.

Baby stuff: 2 pacifiers, 3 pairs of socks, baby shoes (Mothercare).

Essentials: 58 pcs newborn diapers (Pampers), 3 pcs 60ml baby bottles (Avent), J&J baby powder, baby oil, small wipes (packed inside), baby cotton buds (Tolly Joy)

Dark blue circular place mat (base) from Daiso.

Jillian's card

2008-09-06T16:30:00.005+08:00

From CPS# 77 - Jilian's card

Zzzz

2008-09-04T23:04:00.003+08:00

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 22 - Altered
"Jillian's mini album" (back page)

Just last night, I finished this page. Looking at the photo, I was fighting off the impulse to just close my eyes and drift off as well. In the end, everything looked peachy (and pink!). =)

I wonder if I'll ever get to do another mini album. It's a great way to use your stash and easy to fill in (due to the small size). The only down-side is that the pictures need to be of a certain size.

That's another one (or two?) off my list! An altered project and a mini album!

Paper and wood

2008-09-04T22:45:00.008+08:00

Just wondering, should I consider changing the title of my blog? These aren't exactly "paper" creations anymore. But then again, strictly speaking, I didn't "create" the wooden album either.

This picture is one of Jerome's faves. Jillian doesn't usually pose in front of the camera.

She doesn't smile either, which makes this photo quite rare.

This one's from her first visit to the airport (to send off her tita - my sister Kathy). She looks like a little girl (instead of toddler) here. *sigh* how they grow up so fast.

One of my fave pics! Jerome captured her in one of her "playful" moods.

And this one was taken on her first ride on a "mini carousel".

Jillian's first mini album

2008-09-04T22:27:00.004+08:00

It was a thursday night and I was thinking of altering my old wooden doll house (the one which looks like a puzzle and you have to build a piece at a time?). I thought of using all my old scraps (color theme - pink, purple and white) which would really help to get rid of the paper I didn't know what to do with. I was also planning on using all the brads, buttons and eyelets as well - which would really make it one-of-a-kind.

I was done with a part of the attic (roof and facade) when I realized I would never finish it by Sept. 5... well, at least not this year.

I ended up buying this wooden crown mini album (from Kaiser Kraft).

Scrappseratsg Challenge # 22 - Altered
"Jillian's mini album"

Needless to say, I still got to use all the old paper and scraps I've been wanting to get rid of. Even if this just turned out to be "mini-layouts", it was great fun finally making an actual "mini album". The most time-consuming part was finding out what exactly to put at the top of the page (since I only had pink, green and blue crystals) and balancing everything out.

Of booties and blogging...

2008-09-04T22:04:00.003+08:00

Scratch one off my to-do list - I got to do two cards! Hurray! This one's not based on CPS or Card Maps though, but the other definitely is. I used Jennifer Miller's design ("First baby card") in baby creations mag, and I used sketch #77 from CPS for the other one (which I'll post as soon as I take a decent photo of).

I also got to do the diaper cake! I'm probably 70% finished (I just need to put in a few more ribbons and make the box). I was pleasantly surprised to find that shaping and molding it into a "cake" wasn't as tedious and time-consuming as it first seemed. And i'm so happy I did it! Love the color-combo (hope to take a picture of it during the weekend).

I haven't blog-hopped (or even surfed) for the entire week so I didn't hear the news that I got a wonderful RAK from the lovely ladies of {Create}! I feel so grateful and blessed! Especially after these past 2 tiring and hectic weeks (work was more toxic than usual). Just one more day and it'll be the weekend... I can't wait!

A touch of Gold...

2008-08-19T00:04:00.005+08:00

What a sweet start to the week. =) I received this from Marix, whose blog is one of those I frequent daily for my "scrapping fix" (and for the loads of other scrap-related links):

Thanks so much! Here are the rules:

1. Only 5 people allowed
2. 4 have to be dedicated followers of your blog
3. One has to be someone new or recently new to your blog and live in another part of the world
4. You must link back to whoever gave you the award

I've chosen the following:

Abiik

Ces

CJ

Karen

Ate Rowee

Rain, rain...

2008-08-16T15:14:00.006+08:00

HMITM Challenge # 86
"Walking on Tiptoes"

It's raining here and so I got to finish this week-in-the-making LO (at last!). Definitely a "challenge" as I needed to squeeze 33 patterned paper pieces. I'm not sure if the holes really count (and if the epoxy labels can be considered "tags"), but if they're not I'm still happy that I got to finish. Sadly, this didn't make it as the deadline was Aug. 11. =(

On a happier note, Scrappersatsg Challenge # 22 is up (quite a "challenge" as well). I'm pretty much finished with my end-of-July goal list so I'm making a new one:

1. Enter at least 2 projects to CH#22
2. Make 2 cards (both to be given to friends) based on CardMaps or CPS
3. Make a diaper cake (and need to do this soon!)
4. Make a mini-album

For item # 1. I don't know if I can enter Jillian's name letters:

I made these in Nov. 2006 when we were decorating/preparing her side of the room (which takes up half our bedroom). I haven't been introduced to scrap-booking yet (although the paper I used here are acid and lignin-free patterned paper bordered by Pebeo 3D paint) and I was doing very simple journalling. I think they're too simple to enter to the challenge but I can't help reminiscing. I can't believe it's been 20 months since Jillian was born and almost a year since I started scrapping and so much has changed.

I wonder what I'll be up to in another 20 months... wonder if it'll also be raining...

Finished!

2008-08-10T21:05:00.006+08:00

Jiroken's Sketch # 2 Challenge
"Sesame Sweetie"

I finished this layout just today and I must say that even if I wasn't able to enter it to the challenge (too late already, lah) I feel good about how it turned out (considering I had several title changes). I'm not sure, as well, if it would have fitted the challenge mechanics as the title is supposed to be diagonal.

On a side note, I was able to send my entry to Scrappin Kids challenge since I'd already done a "water"-based layout some time before ("Baby Bath Bubbles"). I've never entered it into any challenge, so that was a stroke of luck. I'm just a bit concerned that the pictures were of Jillian after her bath so there really isn't any "water" in the photos. Hmm...

Because of the extra time, I got to make a few simple cards. I'm hoping I'll develop more skill to do a better job but for now these have made me pretty happy.

1. For Amy's little boy:

2. For Amy:

I better check out some of the good sites for card sketches as I'd like to try my hand on making more of 'em.

On a sad note, I don't think I'll be able to enter Laine's August challenge because I don't have any word stamps (or inks for that matter). Guess I'll start on HMITM's Challenge # 86 which is quite a challenge:

Use 33 pieces of patterned paper
Use 8 buttons and 4 tags
Use your own writing

Uggh, I hate my handwriting...

Happenings...

2008-08-09T14:06:00.015+08:00

For starters, the Beijing Olympics started yesterday and I got to watch the opening ceremonies in the hospital. Not because of anything bad, on the contrary, a couple of friends and I went to Mt. Alvernia to visit our good friend A who's 7 months pregnant and who needed to give birth.

So here's wishing our new mommy A a swift recovery and good days ahead! And a very warm welcome to Alexander Julius Dempsey! Coincidentally born on Singapore's 43rd Birthday! What a happy start to the day...

And 3 other things which have added to my happiness:

1. My finished LO for the Scrappersatsg challenge:

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 21
"Sleeping"

I technically used 6 craft-related stuff for this LO: 1. Decorative scissors (pink trimming at the bottom) 2. One-hole puncher (pink notebook peeling strip at the lower right) 3. Making Memories hole punch 4. MM universal eyelet setter 5. MM Hammer (swirls on the upper right, framing the flowers) and 6. Craft Robo die-cutter (pink flowers).

2. A card (second item of my "goal list" done!)

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 21
"Thank You" (3 x 4 folded card)

For this card, I used 5 craft items: 1. One-hole puncher (pink notebook peeling strip at the bottom) 2. Making Memories hole punch 3. MM universal eyelet setter 4. MM Hammer (swirls on the upper right, framing the flowers) and 5. Revo die-cutter (white swirl), thanks to cute#1!

3. $20 gift hamper from Laines! (Thanks Marix, for voting for me!)

I also entered my fave LO - "Doggy & Me" to {Create}'s August challenge (Animal Love). So apt!

Well, those are the latest "happenings" in my life. After my cutover this morning I'm raring to finish the last 2 goals on my list. So sorry that I didn't make it to Michelle's challenge but I'm still going to make an LO based on her sketch! As well as try to make 3 more LOs (for HMITM, Scrappin Kids and Laines). Good Luck to me!

Like the new look?

2008-07-30T22:26:00.004+08:00

It was bound to happen (and I've been putting it off for a while now), so here's the new look for my blog. =) The basic layout is the same, but I changed the chat widget from Chatbox to ShoutMix for a change (too bad all the previous comments can't be viewed here).

I'm thinking the color is too *blah* or is it because I'm just not used to it?

This was one of my "scrap goals", and here are the others I'm aiming to finish in the next few weeks:

1. Make a layout for Scrappersatsg Challenge # 21
2. Make a card
3. Make an entry for Jiroken's challenge
4. Make an entry for HMITM (or other challenges)

Wish me luck! =D

A Shopaholic's Confession

2008-07-27T22:07:00.004+08:00

Scrappersatsg Challenge # 20
"Shoot Shop Scrap!"

I'd been saving the tags at the bottom of my patterned papers not knowing exactly when and where I'd use them. So it was a surprise that I finally got to incorporate them in this specific layout. The original design I had in mind for this required some handcut patterns (not flowers for a change!) that I didn't need in the end.

Can't wait for the next challenge!

Living in the Tropics...

2008-07-19T19:02:00.005+08:00

{ Create} Tropical July Challenge
"El Nido"

These were some of the extra pics of our 2nd trip to Palawan (and I have more!). So I figured I'd use them in this month's {Create} challenge.

Journal:

"2006 - Enjoying the silence inside the cove. The sigh of leaves and gentle splashes of the oars. We enter cool caves and take a short dip in one of the beaches. The glorious sun strong, hot and continuously shining... Palawan is a wonderful retreat to enjoy nature . To bask in beauty, serenity and to experience it all with the one you love."

Red, Yellow, Black and White

2008-07-14T00:08:00.003+08:00

Laines July Layouts
"Wuxi Snapshots"

I've been wanting to make a red, black and white layout for a time now but just didn't know how to go about it. I didn't even know what PPs to choose (hence the lack thereof). I mostly used Making Memories embellishments for this, plus rub ons and homemade hambly (transparencies).

I'm trying to be more active in participating in other "challenges" (Laines is so very generous, I received a great mini-RAK from them just by uploading a layout!). =D

Doing "Shabby Chic"

2008-07-13T22:27:00.004+08:00

This particular picture was taken on the weekend after Mother's day. We were waiting for our ride and hubby thought a little photo-op was in order (as the title says, girls really don't need any excuse for a Kodak moment).