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Advent Calender time

Evening all..  sorry my pics sometimes load before the text but I often take pics on my phone then after upload I jump on my tablet to do the text.

Anyway I've been on holiday for the last week and tomorrow is my final day off before returning to work and I have to say that I've enjoyed every minute of it and have really appreciated the chill time.  I've had numerous lie ins followed by lots of work around the house, in the garden and tomorrow I will be finishing painting my front door.    It's been so nice catching up with everything I've been behind on and in the evenings I've done the odd bit of crafting but mostly I've just vegged out on the sofa.   Down time was so needed.  

So, what do we have for tonights project...  this is one of my trade show makes from last week for Jones Crafts.   A fabulous advent calender decorated with papers from the KaiserCraft Yuletide collection.   The calender comes as a flat pack kit designed by Candy Box Crafts.   Included within the kit are the sections to complete the main structure, 25 mini boxes, just the perfect size to hide away a luxurious chocolate lol, and all your mini numbers.   

As for the papers in the Yuletide collection I'd probably describe them as quite soft and peaceful in nature.  Definately one of my favourite Christmas collections.. but oh my..  I also have another two favourite collections which are everyday themed but I'm not at liberty to share just yet.  

Well folks that's it for tonight as I'm off to make myself a wee cuppa, snuggle up on the sofa and have a sing along to MTV..  could be dangerous as it normally ends up with me dancing around the room rofl.   

Nighty night all

Lorraine xxx 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jones-Crafts/246870995328912?ref=ts&fref=ts

Parcels made from paper and one with a button top for decoration

Back of advent calender

Never Forget!

This is what hatred leads to..

God bless those who perished, those left to mourn and the amazing emergency services who tackled this unimaginable destruction head on. 

May God bless you all

Holidays are coming!

Evening all..  I know it's a little earlier than my normal 2 am post but I'm just about to have a crafty wee play so thought I'd be organised and do this first.  

Well that's day 2 of my holiday almost over and I haven't done anything exciting..  same old same old just I don't need to set an alarm.

Highlight of my day was ordering my ceramic poppy to go on display at the Tower of London in commemoration of my Great Grandfather and his 3 brothers who all perished during WW1.    Two of them passed in 1914 & two in 1917.   I have also registered all 4 of them on the Roll of Honour so just waiting now for confirmation of the date their names will be read aloud.  They may have passed separately but I'm hoping their names will be read together so they truly are Brothers in Arms.  My poppy will eventually go to my mum as I never had the privilege of knowing my grandfather and nor did she so I thought it would be nice for her to have a permanent symbol of him.  Poor wee soul was crying when I told her what I'd done.   

There were a few mishaps too..   Mum & I were going to have a nice wee cuppa on the back garden so I was opening up the chairs when one of them decided to swing open and the bar on it smacked me on the shin!  Eh.. major dead leg & throbbing so ended up sitting with an ice pack on it for half hour to prevent swelling.  What a numpty  lol.  Also have to take mum to the optician tomorrow as she has something which she can only describe as dangling behind her eye.  They need to put a dye in it so they can have a better observation of the damage apparently which means she won't be able to drive so my chauffeur cap will be on.  Hoping it's nothing too serious so fingers crossed. 

Well there are some goodies calling my name so I'm off to have some fun.    May give you a sneaky peek at it tomoz lol. 

Toodles for now
Lorraine xxx

Blog Candy Giveaway

Thought I would start the day with a little Candy Giveaway courtesy of the boys from Jones Crafts.  So what do we have..  hhmmm a little mixture of Graphic 45 & KaiserCraft centered around us females.  

Included are 

Botanical Garden die cut tags & pockets

Botanical Garden chipboard pieces

Wooden butterfly embellishments

Bag of mixed buttons

Mini crochet doilies

Acrylic stamp set including the following saying

You make me happy when skies are grey

All you need is love

So many of my smiles begin with you

AND 

Love you to the moon and back

To be in with a chance of winning here are the rules to follow.

1.  Leave a comment on this post 

AND

2.  Share a link on your own blog or facebook page back to this giveaway

Jones Crafts also have a facebook page where you can keep up to date with all the latest releases and they have a team of designers who regularly create inspirational projects to share with you. 

Jones Crafts website

http://www.jonesnottm.co.uk/

Jones Crafts on facebook 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jones-Crafts/246870995328912?ref=ts&fref=ts

Good luck everyone

xxx 

Weekend masterpiece

Just caught myself getting ready to wish everyone a happy Monday when suddenly I realised we're on Tuesday lol.  

What a fabulous busy weekend it's been with a crafty day at Craft World on Saturday then a trip up to Perth early Sunday morning for the 2 day trade show representing Jones Crafts. 

So wish I'd had a chauffeur on Sunday as the views on my journey were simply amazing.  The morning dew was hanging low over the fields and mountains with a stunning low sun lined blue sky.  I'd have been snapping pictures the whole way if I didn't need to have my hands on the steering wheel.   Every day should begin with views like that.  

Anyway after a busy day at the show we headed back to the hotel just after 6 pm when I retreated to my room for a little rest and quick change before heading out for dinner.   Pacos in Perth has such a yummy menu available and when there's a crowd the size of us there's always interesting conversations going on around the table.   Finally it was time to head back to the hotel bar and there was more than one occasion when Tena Lady would have come in extremely helpful.   Let's just say between a new ring having been purchased and jokes galore we were even making other hotel residents giggle.  

Finally had to call it a night once I had slid down the sofa so far that my bottom was getting ready to go right off the edge.  Lol  

I also had the pleasure of meeting a lovely little girl who was attending the show with her mum on Sunday called Isla.  Whilst the boys were busy taking orders she spotted the KaiserCraft pens so I gave her some paper and asked her to draw me a picture.  This is what she produced..  A princess castle complete with mast & flag.   Have to say in was extremely impressed with her writing considering she's only 6.  So once mummy was finished placing her order and they were leaving the stand she asked to use the pens again and she drew the love heart and wrote my name next to it before giving me one of the biggest hugs I've ever had.   What an absolutely delightful little girl she was. 

Finally after the show closed yesterday the guys very kindly offered to give me some goodies so I could do a blog giveaway so watch this space for a later upload of what you could enter to win.  

Right.. time to move myself off the sofa.   I've got a week off work.. Yay..  so time to get the housework done and the garden is in need of some much over due attention.  

Happy crafting
Lorraine xxx

Men at work

The boys from Jones Crafts hard at work.   Stavros taking an order whilst Darren is online placing one for another.  Me.. I'm taking a picture lol

New Collection preview

Just a quick post tonight as it's been a busy day and I'm off to bed shortly as I've got another long busy day ahead..  lots of fun things to do including packing 2 demo kits and my wee overnight case. 

So without further delay I present to you another little sneak peak at some of the new KaiserCraft Basecoat Christmas collection.   Now if you look at all the little snips you'll see what I was doing when I nodded off last night with the scissors in my hand lol.  

If you're a retailer in the UK then orders can be placed via Jones Crafts Nottingham or alternatively if you're a consumer and wish to know your local stockist simply ask Jones Crafts and they will be happy to advise you. 

Righty ho bed is calling so I'm off. 

Happy crafting
Lorraine xxx

Naughty peek

G'day all..  being a little naughty as many of you will not yet have seen the newly released ranges from KaiserCraft so I thought I'd share one of my projects made for Jones Crafts.   There's more to come but being as the show isn't until Sunday & Monday I can't share everything just yet. 

This one is a Candy Box Crafts sleigh which I've filled with some presents & messages for the recipient.   Wouldn't this be a wonderful gift for someone..  It could contain sweets for the kiddies,  handmade soaps for friends and can you imagine it could even be used to hide that very special surprise engagement ring for the Christmas lovers.   One little sleigh that holds so many possibilities.   Better still is that the recipient will be left with a beautiful gift that can be displayed year after year.   Now that's a gift that keeps on giving!

Well it's been another busy day in the shop and I actually nodded off on the sofa only to awake with a pair of scissors in my hand doing some cutting for another project so I think I'm being told it's time for bed lol.   Now I've posted my chores are complete so off for zzzzzz's I go. 

Happy crafting
Xxx

What a day!

It's the wee small hours again and I'm only now getting a chance to post.  

Had a mega busy day in the shop as expected with all the stock arriving in advance of the weekend.   Can't actually remember what all came in but I do remember Sweet Poppy Stencils, DO Crafts & Creative Expressions.    

Got home from work just after 6.30 then had a quick tidy up, paid some bills and organised dinner.   Took a little time out to chill and started again on samples about 10pm.    All cleaned up and time for bed now..  Thank goodness for that!   Strangely enough I have a feeling that tomorrow is going to be a repeat of today lol. 

Off to let the bed bugs bite so Toodles.  

Xxx

Perfect by the sea

Well folks yet again the time has flown by since my last post..  The old saying is oh so true.. The older you get the quicker time goes by. 

Anyway last week was filled with work,  in the shop during daytime then working on samples in the evenings.   No rest for the wicked eh!

A few months back Rob had booked us a wee overnight stay at The Marine Hotel in Troon so we were looking forward to a brief 24 hours of relaxation.   Sadly on Friday morning we received word that's Rob's uncle had passed away of a massive heart attack whilst sharing breakfast with his loving wife.  They were on holiday in Italy at the time but thankfully his wife comes from the Netherlands so her brother made the long drive down to be with her.  Now the legalities begin to arrange for his body to be returned to the United States for burial.   Needless to say there's a lot of daily communication with the family back home at present.

Finally mid afternoon Friday we set off on the quick trip to Troon where we enjoyed a nice night in the bar and restaurant.   Saturday after packing our bag we set off to the harbour and went on a little exploration of the rock pools etc and I collected some shells which are now on my kitchen window ledge.   Finally we returned home and normality quickly resumed..  I've spent the last 2 days working on samples for the upcoming trade show! 

So my alarm is set for the morning as I'm in the shop and it's gonna be a busy day as it's the Extravaganza weekend this coming Saturday & Sunday so there's lots of stock going to be getting delivered.   Guess that means it's time to sign off then eh as I'm currently looking at 5 hrs sleep lol. 

Toodles for now
Lorraine xxx

My view on Saturday morning

Hello!

Well goodness,  gracious me have I been naughty or what.. A whole week has flown past and I've completely failed to post.   Promise I've not just been lazing about doing sod all, rather the opposite in fact!

Last Monday & Tuesday I was working on Britannia samples for the upcoming extravaganza weekend at Craft World on 6th & 7th Sept.  Sadly I can only do the Saturday due to a previous booking.  

Wednesday,  Thursday & Friday I was working in the shop and boy did we have a busy week as the new Sue Wilson dies arrived so it was time to pack all the pre orders that were awaiting dispatch which meant we lost a member of staff to that which kept the rest of us busy on the shop floor.   This week will be the same as the new Spellbinders will be the focus and no doubt the new stock will start arriving for the extravaganza weekend.

Saturday morning I was up and at it again, this time I was off to help Debbi Moore at one of her workshops..  If I were to say there were a few laughs it would be a complete understatement!!!   What a fabulous bunch of women and hopefully we'll be repeating the fun again in November. 

Finally we've reached Sunday & Monday,  my days off.. eh... NOT.   I've spent them working on samples for the trade show in Perth at the beginning of Sept where I'll be working with the fun loving guys from Jones Crafts, Nottingham.   Last year they led me astray by teaching me how to play poker so hoping they're better behaved this year but I'm not holding out much hope for them  lol.

Today's card was for my little adopted daughter who's birthday it was last weekend.  Card went down an absolute treat as did her tshirts and fabric paint.   It's the adopted sons next weekend so here's hoping that goes as well.

Anyway it's midnight now and I've got work in the morning so signing off to go for a wee chill out hour before hitting the hay.   

Happy crafting
Lorraine  xxx

First demo kit neatly stored away

Afternoon all just a quick post as I'm a busy wee bee organising stuff today.  

Bought some storage containers yesterday so here's my first demo kit all neatly packed away..  Indigo Blu.  

Now who's next!  Lol 

Xxx

Bright & beautiful

Howdy doody folks it's been a few days!

Head, neck & shoulder pain has taken over from the back for a few days so dear hubby has been massaging his fingers to the bone trying to help me and I've been rather unsociable too which is not like me.  After having a nice hot shower today I decided to give my back a wee stretch but instead of pulling out my actual recline stretcher I decided to simply use the side of the bed.  All went well with the stretch as I slowly eased myself over the side bit by bit and finally when I decided that was enough I pulled myself up off the floor..  well at least I attempted to before the duvet gently slid to the side resulting in me crashing to the floor head first!   Guess you could say that it really wasn't my day today lol.

Anyway I've managed a few cards along the way and one of them was for my friends little girl..  One of my surrogate children lol.   She's bright, she's beautiful and she's just reached double figures.  Indigo Blu provided the perfect stamps for me and using my DI I set about creating.  Forgot to take pics in daylight so I've taken a snap shot just now under my craft light just so you can get a sneaky peak. 

Can't believe it's 3am and I'm sitting typing!   Think I'm gonna swallow a few pain killers and see if that helps ease the pain a bit so I can hopefully catch some zzzzzz's before the sun rises. 

Happy crafting
Lorraine xxx

Birthday tag

Sorry I missed a days post, should have been done in the evening but we  I got home from work I had to push on with prepping some Britannia samples and by the time I finished my back had really flared up again.   Think I'm going to have to admit defeat and get the doc to take a look at it in a few weeks at my next appointment.  

Well it's been a very busy day in the shop.   Customers galore, lots of sample boards being made up and displayed not to mention deliveries.    One things for sure when you work in such a large craft shop is there's always something to keep you busy.  Stock takes, restocking,  ordering,  pricing, advising customers, cleaning,  phones, Internet orders,  tills and that's just the basic day to day running lol.  

Anyway tonight I've succumbed to relaxation simply because it was after 11pm before the house phone & mobile actually stopped ringing and pinging.    Have to say it's been most enjoyable, well apart from my hubby's shocking event.   He sees a wee 14 year old girl turn the corner, pull up her tshirt to wipe her face but the problem is its a wee cropped top so there she is walking down the street wiping face with her black bra on view to anyone in the vicinity!   Needless to say hubby dearest was less than impressed but also shocked that some kids these days have absolutely no self respect.  

Righty Ho it's time for bed so I'll leave you with a birthday tag crafted using Indigo Blu stamps with distress inks.   Fab quick make which you could mount on a card or use as a gift label.  

Nighty night all
Lorraine xxx

Dream time

Oopsie just realised I won't be posting during the day tomorrow because I'm working in the shop but I'm lying in bed just now so will keep this one short as need me beauty sleep. 

Excuse the damage on the right hand side bit again it was a sample that got slightly damaged before I got to take pics. 

Another quick make using Indigo Blu stamps.   Sometimes we're tested with projects taking us time to make but when you're doing demos people ain't interested in watching you drag a project out for hours on end.   They're interested in seeing something completed in a short space of time.  Thus my personal projects tend to be much more intense whilst work related stuff are always quicker makes. 

Anyhoo time for sleep so nighty night peeps.

Lorraine xxx

Nature's beauty

Happy Monday all.  Never quite got why people moan about the start of a new week as it means the start of new possibilities in all areas of life. 

Today I am going to switch off to the phone and get the ironing done then some crafting.  Back at work tomorrow for a wee catch up with the girls and see what all new has been delivered in my absence. 

Keeping this short & brief today as nothing much happened yesterday and I want to get on without rambling on about nothing then hopefully I'll squeeze in an extra project to share with you later this week. 

In the meantime here's another Indigo Blu card. 

Happy crafting
Lorraine xxx

Soaring high

Afternoon all.  Have had a lazy start to the day and hubby found it rather amusing when he tried to wake me with my morning coffee.   I was out cold and he decided to gently tap me on the nose.. OMG.. I near shot through the roof!   Poor cat bolted off the bed and thankfully I didn't send the cup flying out of hubby's hand. 

I know the rains are covering large parts of England just now so hope you all stay safe.  We've had some mild rain since around 5am this morning, enough to keep the ground wet but certainly nothing major.  Will see what the rest of the day brings right enough as it heads upland. 

Now I apologise for the blurred photography and I can't even re shoot as it's now displayed in the shop but this is a little tag sample I made using some of the new Britannia dies.  These were skyline, Sleigh,  Reindeer and small pine cone.  I have to say I'm loving these dies so much.  Simply cut a pile of shapes in good old white card, ink and create scenes.  

I've got hubby kicking about the house today so that always interferes with the crafting so focusing on the washing etc then will get inky tonight & tomorrow.  

Hope you're all having a fantabulous weekend.

Love
Lorraine xxx

Thank You

Afternoon all that's one job done so time for a wee break before deciding what to start on next.   Obviously I can't share the design itself as it's the last part of a wedding order and those I never share cause some peeps just take your ideas and sell them as their own.  I know it's sad but it is true.  Sixty thank you cards all ready to be packaged up & delivered to the bride.  

Yesterday was a wee day at home but I also had an unexpected visit from my adopted sister Gail.   We miss each other so much as she lives in Durham but we're hoping that one day soon she'll be coming home to stay.  In the meantime we make do with whatever time we can share.   We first me in the dentist in 1987 and have been through thick & thin with each other.  So many tragedies have affected us but together we've come out the other side stronger than ever.   We may not be blood sisters but when you have a bond as strong as ours does that really matter. 

Now today what am I going to do.  Hhmmm I think I'll start with a nice hot bath as this stupid back is playing up again.  Need to pop to the shops for some bits & bobs and mum coming for a visit.  After that I'll be pulling out the inks and getting creative again. 

Hope you've all got something nice planned for the weekend.

Hugs
Lorraine xxx

Fly away

Afternoon all.  Golly gosh I decided not to post in the wee small hours of this morning as I was off today so had time to fit it in at a decent hour of  the day and golly gosh would you believe I slept for a whopping 9 hours last night!   For those of you who don't know me well that normally 2 nights sleep to me lol. 

Anyways I decided to take a night to myself and I simply sat and vegged on the sofa doing sod all but watching tv and playing on my tablet.  Must have relaxed me eh!   Not stressing today either and just going at a slow pace again as my backs a little sore again but nothing major at present so going to try gently ease it away.  Housework is being broken doing in segments this weekend.  Today it's downstairs,  tomorrow upstairs then the rest of the day will be spent crafting.   There's quite a list to tackle.

1.  Thank you cards
2.  Britannia samples
3.  KaiserCraft samples
4.  Candy Box Crafts samples
5.  Indigo Blu samples

Hhmmm think I will be rather inky the next few days lol. 

In the meantime today's share is a little tag using some of the new Britannia dies.  Snow flake, Robin & large pine cone.  These are such fun dies to play with and they co-ordinate beautiful with each other.  Oh and little Robin red breast does actually have an eye now,  I just happened to take the picture before I added it lol. 

Right I'm off as lots to do and the energy is bubbling.  Back laters!

Happy crafting
Lorraine xxx

Slowly goes it

You must all love when I post at this time of night as it's kept short & sweet lol.

Not much to report tonight as I was working in the shop then home for dinner and some work on the thank you cards tonight.   Didn't manage to get them finished as I was a bit tired so on a go slow.   Nice wee busy day in the shop with a few spells where it felt like a bus had stopped outside and opened the doors.   Even customers were saying how busy the car park was.   The journey home.. well..  that took me over an hour to drive 20 miles and the bulk of that time was spent sitting in traffic in the first mile of my journey.   Why when it's obvious that there's an issue with traffic do people insist on blocking roundabouts.  It only slow the traffic down,  it doesn't help you get anywhere quicker!  Then the amount of horns that get honked.. well that's just down right stupid. 

Thought this card was rather appropriate for tonight's post as it's travel related lol.  Another Indigo Blu sample. 

So that's been my day and heading off to bed now as up in 5 hours for another full day.

Nighty night
Lorraine xxx

Work work work

Well folks it's a quick post tonight as it's been a long day & I'm yawning my head off which is great news for me as hopefully I'm gonna get a good sleep which is very unusual for me.  I may even manage more than my average 4 hours lol. 

The day started with a 7.30am alarm, followed by work till 5.30pm and home just before 6.30pm.  Done a quick run around with the hoover and folded up the washing before organising dinner.  Took some time out to chill then settled down around 9 pm to start on work again.  There are now 60 Thank You cards all prepped ready to be constructed tomorrow night.  Put my feet up to relax for a while before bed and oopsie..  I nodded off lol.   Soon as I stop typing this post I'm off to get my pj's on and fall in to bed as I hopefully have another wee busy day ahead in the shop tomorrow.  

So before I go a little about today's card.   This was another Indigo Blu sample I made and please ignore the damaged blob at the top right of the corner.   One of the joys of passing samples around I'm afraid is that they can get damaged.   At the end of the day they are there for people to handle so you have to expect things like this happen.  

Right I'm signing off before I fall asleep typing.  

Happy crafting
Lorraine xxx

Home bound flight

Where oh where do the days go?   It's a true saying that time passes quicker the older you get. 

This weekend I've been tuning in to the last of the Commonwealth Games and have to say I've been impressed at how well organised Glasgow has been to keep the city flowing as best it could and create a warm welcome to all our international visitors. 

Nowt much else has happened apart from the usual humdrum known as housework and washing.  Well there's not been much time actually as the games only finished on Sunday lol.  This morning I awoke with the most terrible headache and terrible feeling of sick so bad in fact that I did actually end up hanging over the bowl awaiting that dreaded event.   Thankfully it wasn't too bad so I had a little porridge and over time it seemed to settle.  Phew... was worried I had a nasty bug but seems to have passed now. 

Tonight I've been working on some project sheets as a follow through from my recent demo at Stampers Grove and also made a start on 60 thank you cards for an order.   Guess I'll be working day and night this week lol.  

So, what am I sharing with you all today?   A nice little wooden plaque which I covered in Kroma Crackle before stamping and adhering some elements.  Just have to attach a hanging hook to the back then it's ready for hanging. 

Well it's past bedtime so gonna sign off as have work in the morning.  

Toodles for now
Lorraine xxx

Quickie

Hi folks quick post as opening shop doors shortly but here's a little tag I made using some of the new Britannia dies. 

Xxx

The wonders of life

Wow.. how time flies.  I've just realised that my last post was on Thursday.  So what's been happening?   Let's see now.

Friday seen us celebrate our wedding anniversary.  Hubby went to work and as for me well, I toddled off for a pampering at the hair dresser, just got back and my very dear friend called to say 'put the kettle on'.   We don't get much time together as she lives down south but we're hoping that one day soon she'll be coming home again.   Distance has made no difference and even 20+ years later we're still like sisters.   What a precious afternoon we spent together.   Then in the evening I got my demo kit packed ready for the morning.

Saturday seen me off to James & Emma at Stampers Grove in Edinburgh to teach 5 mini workshops.  Rather a few hoots were had and every class was pushed to do a little something more than the group before.  Lol.  Had to have a wee early night as I was running on 3 hours sleep from the night before!

Sunday got off to a very lazy start as I made up some lost sleep with 11 straight hours lol.   Rest of the day was spent just chilling about the house doing sod all and I thoroughly enjoyed it. 

Monday didn't see my doing too much else apart from housework, washing & I spent some time in the garden cutting grass and trimming bushes.  Oh well I did have a wee visit from mum in the evening too.

Tuesday I was back in Craft World for my usual wee shift catching up with everyone.   New spellbinders dies are now available to pre - order on the website do the printer was certainly kept busy lol.  I've heard rumour that the new Sue Wilson ones will be added soon too but don't tell anyone I let that slip! 

The ongoing excitement lately has revolved around the Commonwealth boxing as a wee laddie from my home town is competing.  Now I knew his granda and his dad growing up so to see him in the ring is awesome.    Wee Reece McFadden is only 19, not long moved in to the senior division and this is his first international competition.   On Friday night I was screaming at the TV as I watched his first fight and was over the moon he won.  Along came Sunday and both Mum & I were screaming at the TV as he won his second fight.  How exciting.   Well today I was working and missed his quarter final fight so thanks to Alan in my work I managed to watch it during my lunch break..  Go on my son, three wins in a row.  His next fight is Friday when thankfully I can watch and if all goes well I'll be glued to the TV again on Saturday for the final.   Would be an amazing achievement if he could bring the Gold home to Motherwell but whether he does or not his home town is proud of him and what an awesome experience for one so young.   I have a feeling that there's gonna be one hell of a party here no matter which way it goes lol. 

Oh well I've ranted away a bit tonight and guess I should try and get some sleep as only had about 4 hours last night and it's already near 2 am and alarm is set for 7am. 

Night all
Lorraine xxx

Let the games begin

G'on yerself Team Scotland!   Right behind our guys & gals whether they win medals or not.   Now the opening ceremony is over,  I'm proud to live in the town to host the first event of the games the Triathlon.   Being hosted only a half mile from my home I'm saddened not to be able to attend the event due to work but I'm sure the people of the 'Well will take care of our visitors.

Can't believe how busy we were in the shop today between customers and deliveries.   The funniest had to be when one of the couriers unloaded a pallet from his articulated lorry and it was head and shoulders higher than him!   That turned out to be a pallet unloaded in the car park and taken in the shop box by box lol.   Lots more arrivals including Sizzix,  Indigo Blu & Craft Creations.   Love days like that!  
Oh and got an email to advise that all workshop spaces have been filled for Saturday's workshops and a reserve list is now on the go so that's fab.   I'm gonna be a busy lass lol.

Unfortunately I've got an early alarm call in the morning as I need to try and get out of town before competitors and spectators start arriving and guess what.. I'm having trouble getting to sleep.  Typical eh!   Gonna have another go at getting my head down once I finish typing but rate I'm going I'm not even gonna have 4 hours sleep.    Wish me luck!

That said I'll leave you with another sneaky peek.

Happy crafting
Xxx

Travel chaos ahead

Oopsie I nearly forgot my evening post!

Well tomorrow is the opening ceremony for the Commonwealth Games and I have a feeling that some travel chaos lies ahead travelling to and from work for the next 10 days.   Shame you can't have a practice run so you have an idea of how long it's going to take eh. 

We had a busy wee day in the shop today as for lots of crafters it's that time again already.. you know that time when the word 'christmas' makes an appearance even though the sun is shining lol.   So today has been spent going through box upon box of toppers, stamps, dies, ribbons, papers etc and no matter how we jiggled stuff about we still didn't have enough space to display everything so the job will continue tomorrow.   If you keep it quiet and don't tell the boss I'll let you in to a little secret..  If you live close to Glasgow it's worth a trip as there's more than one or two bargains to be found..  but remember sshhhh I never told you that lol.   If you're not already a Craft World follower on facebook I would recommend you go 'Like' the page just now so you keep up to date with arrivals, sales, demos etc and if you visit the website you can join the mailing list so you get notification of any online sales too.   To answer one of the most asked questions.. yes we do ship international as well. 

It's time for bed now and as I was speaking of travel tonight I chose this pic as the next Indigo Blu sneaky peek.   More to share tomoz night so till then.. Toodle pip! 

Xxx

Weekend madness..

Yet again it's another unplanned late night!   Starting my new meds tonight so hoping they will help me get in to a better sleep pattern in the coming weeks.

So what's been happening since my last post.. hhmmm..  yesterday morning my lovely hubby woke me with a surprise.  It's our wedding anniversary this coming Friday but as I'll be doing last minute prep and packing for Saturday he decided to celebrate early.  Up he came with my coffee and an anniversary card, we don't normally do cards but this was so apt he couldn't resist lol.   Then in the afternoon we took a wee drive to Silverburn shopping centre for a wee meal at Handmade Burger Co followed by a spot of shopping.. didn't get much honest.  New pair of spotted jeans, 2 new tops, 2 belts and a pair of shoes.   Funniest part of the day was just after we arrived and hubby needed the loo so he decided to give me a pound coin to get a 5 minute massage on one of those chairs.. well..  This turned in to the most comical sight you could see.  For those who've never met me I'm a small busted lady but by heck did they jiggle with the vibration or what!   But here's the ultimate..  as though that wasn't funny enough, quite unexpectedly up out the seat of the chair comes what can only be described as feeling like a fist to aggressively caress my bottom!  Well that was it, there was no controlling the laughter either from us or the passers by who were observing.   All I can say is if you live local and fancy a laugh you know where to go but if you're big chested it's defo one to avoid as you're more likely to leave with two black eyes lol. 

Today was no where near as exciting.  Once the housework and washing was done it was head down and working on Indigo Blu samples for the weekend broken briefly by mother stopping by to collect the ironing as she's bored.  I could think of better things to do in the sunshine but I think she's finding life a little lonely at present and still adjusting to Eric's passing.   Guess it's better she's busy and happy than sitting behind closed doors crying. 

Anyway I'm gonna try catch some sleep now so will leave you with a wee sneaky peek at one of the samples and bid you all good night.

Happy crafting
Xxx
 

Mini workshop make 'n' take

Hear ye hear ye hear ye..  next Saturday (26th) I will be taking a wee day trip to Edinburgh to visit the lovely James & Emma at Stampers Grove to join in their celebrations.  I've heard rumour of refreshments on the day!  Lol.  

This is gonna be one fun day as I'll be teaching 5 mini workshop make 'n' take sessions throughout the day using Indigo Blu products.  We'll be stamping, inking and flaking all day long.   Lol.   Spaces are obviously limited but there are still a handful of spaces left if you fancy joining in.  Even if you don't fancy taking part you are welcome to come along and view as an observer.  The more the merrier as they say. 

I'm sure there will be a wee deal or two popping up on the day too so some pennies to be saved or put towards that extra stash if you're anything like me lol.

Anyway, if you fancy coming along for a nosey you want to head to

Stampers Grove
92 Grove Street
Edinburgh
EH3 8AP

0131 221 9440

Or if you fancy joining in and creating a little something to take home then you need to contact James or Emma direct at the shop on 0131 221 9440 to check on availability.  

Time to get back to my inks & flakes!

Toodles
Xxx

Sue Wilson & Julia Watts demo day at Craft World

What an amazing day!

This is how we started the morning with these 2 cheery faces inside the building,  a queue of people standing waiting on the gates to open and another queue of vehicles being patiently parked up in the surrounding streets.   It's kind of weird having over 100 people waiting for the doors to open  lol. 

Needless to say it was a very busy day with lots of bustle, helping customers fill their baskets and plenty laughs along the way.   We even got a few wee treats brought in by customers to keep us going.   They really are the best and take care of us throughout the year with cakes, biscuits & sweets. 

Both Sue & Julia had 3 demo sessions commencing at 9.30, 12.00 & 2.30.   We had so many people wanting to attend we had to issue tickets so we could control the flow lol.   Can you imagine having over 100 people at all 3 sessions combined with walk in customers too!   Yes it was a very busy day indeed and I don't think any member of staff went home without aching feet tonight but it was well worth it and the feedback we have received so far is awesome.  

Although attempting not to think of the clear up to be done tomorrow I also have to be realistic and face facts it's time to head to bed for some well earned rest. 

Hope everyone had as good a day as I did. 
Lorraine xxx

Sue in full demo mode

Julia in full demo mode

Pre opening shot of Sue Wilson's demo area. 

Pre opening shot of Julia Watts demo area.  

Buzzing like a bee

Well folks it's a busy old time around here right now.   This week in the shop has been non stop and it's been fabulous getting all the new products in.  

Today has been spent doing all the crappy household chores etc but made it in to the garden by tea time to dine Al fresco before tackling a little weeding in the evening breeze.   Sadly a dampener was put on it all by a phone call from a friend who had some rather sad news and I just wished I could have put my arms around her and gave her a mahoosive hug cause trust me she sure does deserve one.  I'm glad she called though as at least now I can try & help.

Off to see the physio tomoz about my back.  Thankfully it's been easing off as the week has gone on but still got some rigidity present and the odd cracking here and there so with any luck he'll get me back to 100%. 

Monday we've got hospital with hubby for his post op check followed by a doctor's visit for me. 

In between all that I've got samples to make & an order to finish off.  Not much time for any relaxation this weekend lol.

Anyway, here's a little sample I made for the shop using some gorgeous KaiserCrafts paper combined with Little Birdie lace, flowers, butterfly, wooden swirl, tag & Creative Expressions pins.   Hope you like it.

Right I'm off to finish watching my program before heading to bed. 

Happy crafting
Xxx

Baby Boom Box

Now there's always a new arrival making its way in to the world and what a lovely way to celebrate with a memorable keepsake in the form of a shadow box.  

Again I've been fortunate enough to be able to make this as a DT project for Jones Crafts Nottingham using the following products.

6" Candy Box Crafts shadow box
KaiserCrafts Pitter Patter papers and embellishments
KaiserCrafts wooden safety pins & pram embellishments
Jones Crafts buttons

Only extra product I used was a Memory Box mobile die.

Can you imagine gifting this to a friend them seeing it in place in some little cuties nursery.

So on another note what's been happening today?  Well it was a great wee shift at work and the day just flew by.  Nice flow of customers, stock orders placed, deliveries unpacked, Internet orders packed and a few laughs and giggles along the way.  Here's hoping tomorrow is every bit as good.  Had a good wee chat with mum, she shed some tears over my brothers passing and some laughs too at happy memories we share.   Then I had a wee unexpected visitor who always makes me laugh as she's nothing less than bonkers.  Emails done, ironing sorted and bag packed ready for the morning.   That said and the fact it's now 2 am I guess it's time for bed so Nighty night all and catch up tomoz again.

Happy crafting
Xxx

Baby boom close up

Pitter Patter

Can you hear those tiny feet???  I sure feel like I have today as I've been playing with one of the new KaiserCraft collections called Pitter Patter courtesy of Jones Crafts Nottingham. 

Now, I don't have any children of my own so who was I going to use for my scrap page.. hhmmm I know... my brother!   Quite appropriate really as today would have been his 52nd birthday had he still been here with us.   July 8th 1962 by mum gave birth to her bouncing bundle of joy and no doubt dreamt of what lay ahead in years to come never imagining that one day she would have to say goodbye to him so today I dedicate this page to my big brother Thomas (or Tommy as I preferred to call him in my youthful days).

Not sure of when exactly this picture was taken nor wanting to put the year of his death I decided just to mark it with his month and year of birth as mum will understand what it means. 

This collection contains some gorgeous papers along with the sweetest sentiments and embellishment packs.  Scrap pages are not something I claim to be an expert on but I did have fun putting this one together and then when I had my layout planned it was simply a matter of finding the perfect photo to fit and fit it did.. right through the slot I made on the frame.  Once everything was layered in place it was simply a matter of adhering the scrolls, buttons & flowers to finish the whole thing off.

If any retailer out there is interested in stocking this range please feel free to contact Jones Crafts of Nottingham and ask for further details. 

Now all I have to do is find the perfect frame to mount this in and gift it to my mum as I know she'll give it pride of place in the house.   Her blue eyed boy as we often used to joke. 

Happy birthday Tommy, love & miss you every day. 

Right folks it's time for bed as I'm working in the morning and the old back just isn't doing well at all so need to give it as much rest as possible.  

Happy crafting
Xxx

B is for Baby

Special words on a special day.. 

Where is summer?

Morning all and gosh I can't believe I'm sitting here with a cup of coffee typing this and it's not even 7am yet!  

Been struggling with back problems this week as it froze up on me on Sunday and I literally mean froze to extent I could hard move so between a combination of exercise, massage & a great deal of pain killers it's been slowly loosening even though it's been taking its time about it.   Unfortunately it led to me only having 4 hours sleep if I was lucky on Wednesday night so by the time past night rolled around I think my body was just exhausted and decided to take a break.   Nodded off and on for a few hours last night then seem to have went out cold around midnight and that was me till I awoke at 6.20am this morning.  Still sat on the sofa!!!  Rofl.  Thank goodness I had my feet up on the foot stool. 

Anyways, I've opened the curtains and first thought that came to mind was 'where oh where is summer'.  Nothing but overcast skies & the odd dribble of light rain drops.   Forgive me for thinking this was July.  Lol.  

Right that leads us to this mornings cards which is another combination of Graphic 45 paper & Little Birdie flowers along side some Creative Expressions & Hobby House embellishments.   Gosh I'm sure glad this one has a little colour to it as alongside my coffee those have been the only two things that have added light to my morning so far.  Lol. 

Oh well I guess it's time to sign off and make myself another wee cuppa and eat a couple of pain killers before getting ready for work so will bid you a fond farewell till later & happy crafting. 

Xxx

Blooming Days

Morning all and here's hoping that this weather is here to stay for a while.  Isn't it wonderful!

Monday was very much filled with chores like catching up on the housework,  washing etc then it was time to cut the grass and trim back the plants and bushes in the front garden and along the side boundary fence whilst the evening was spent sorting through paperwork.

Tuesday I was at home for a change as boss lady called and asked if i could work Friday instead so what a great excuse to spend more time in the garden topping up on vitamin D lol.   Morning began with the usual daily tidy & clean up,  more washing etc.. you know what I mean the mundane tasks that us women have to do every day in life.  Followed by paying all the monthly bills and sorting all my car documents.   By that stage I was questioning where the time had gone!  Next up it was time to make the neighbours think I was nuts..  I had road kill on my car from all the midges so my new wee car being only 5 days old was in need of a wash so there I was hosing, rubbing & drying my baby lol.   Mum appeared next with a lovely cooked chicken and salad accompaniments so we plated up and hit the back garden for some chit chat over lunch before tackling some pruning which lasted through till about 6.30pm by which time hubby was home and after him twisting my arm up my back I agreed to sit & enjoy the evening sun with him whilst catching up on his day.   Lol.   Finally my night drew to a close constructing a few cards and typing this post so all in all its been a darn good day.  

Today's card incorporates some Graphic 45 paper along with Little Birdie flowers & embellishments.   Very soft & muted compared to my usual.

Anyways, bed is calling so will wish you all well for the day ahead and hope you get to enjoy some creative crafting. 

Xxx