Totally Doodles

The WORD

2012-01-01T12:37:00.002+08:00

BELIEVE

I always find myself losing faith.

Most of the time, I am out of confidence.

So, for 2012, I will try to BELIEVE in myself.

And, be more zealous in my faith in the ONE ABOVE.

Happy New Year!

December To Remember : Ingredients

2011-12-23T05:42:00.002+08:00

I love to cook. But, the thing is, I am not type to make substitutes. I get scared of the outcome (aka "pintas"). For our Christmas Eve celebration, I decided to create a favorite Filipino dish during the Christmas holidays --- "Embotido" or meatloaf.

Bebi A couldn't helped gushing as I prepare it. What with the Spam, Franks, cheeze that I added, all of which are her favorites. But, I am digressing... The thing is, I couldn't find sweet pickle relish. I bought pickled Gherkins from the supermarket but when I tasted it, it was different or maybe because I didn't buy the sweet one.

I have tried the mixture and it was lacking of tangy/sweet thing. Or is it all in my mind? I am waiting for the Filipino store to open and ask if they have it. But, that's another trip which my husband will probably shake his head off. How I miss Singapore's buses and trains, well even the taxi!

December to Remember : A Christmas Card

2011-12-22T12:34:00.003+08:00

I tried finishing all my gift cards today and was inspired to make a card. The person I am giving to doesn't like roses so I tried not to put any but couldn't cut the ones on the paper so she has to bear with it.

December to Remember : Last Challenge for SC

2011-12-21T12:25:00.002+08:00

I have decided to step down from SC DT. It has been a long and wonderful relationship with the site as design team member. I joined SC as DT on September 2008 and only stepped down for a term in 2010. But, quickly joined the 2nd term of that year coz I missed it so much.

I know I will still miss being with SC DT. They are a great bunch of gals. But, my new role as domestic goddess (yes, I call myself that!) and a working mom still needs some major getting used to. And my scrap stuffs are still inside the boxes and though I am taking them out one by one, I couldn't really focus because there are are projects to finishes, dishes to wash and 2 girls to look after.

Maybe someday I will be able to scrap "fulltime" again...

Anyways, I hope you can join me in my last challenge at SC. Here it goes :

Dear Santa,

I'm sure all of us has been good and nice, never naughty!
In fact, our Wild Card challenge is to make a project with a letter to you and then to tell you how good we are!

And, Of course, that letter also includes our wish lists (ehem!) ...
Here's a sample and I hope you'll like it!

Always,
Sookie

P.S.
If Santa doesn't stop by, we'll just do a random draw for Fancy Pants Love Story Collection.

December To Remember : The Good News

2011-12-07T11:28:00.002+08:00

One thing that was keeping us on edge was that the girls don't have a school yet.

Our move starting from the time we left Melbourne in June til now was centered on our daughters' school. Pre and I were focused on the girls' adjustment. We wanted to enroll them in a school where they know someone. So, we planned on getting them into St. Peter Chanel. We just didn't realize THEN that it's not that easy.

When Pre got his job, I asked if we should still pursue the school since his job is in the EAST. The school is in the WEST. He said it's ok. He will manage.

When Pre was house hunting and couldn't find a house near the school, I wondered if we should just enroll them in another Catholic School. He said we'll find one. Have faith. We did find one. Not our dream house. We will manage.

When we came to Melbourne to start our new life and was told that there are no more slots for level 4. We were devastated. It's like everything that led to this was just not worth it. But, Pre said they will get in, let's just have faith. I called the school a number of times, pleading until the principal emailed me that they really don't have a slot for level 4 but there's a student who might be leaving and that will free up one slot. He will contact me if the family confirms their decision.

And, as for myself, I decided to just pray and wait (but with a little anxiousness on the side). Until yesterday when I couldn't take it anymore. I sms my friend B and she said she'll come with me to the other school. I told her that I will just a get a recommendation letter from the priest but I emailed the principal again, hoping he will answer with good news. My girls took their time taking a bath and we ended up going there at around 11AM. The parish secretary greeted us and she informed us that the priest said mass somewhere. As we were walking away, I was thinking maybe we don't need the letter anymore, maybe St. Peter will have a slot.

We went home, tired after a 20 minute walk (to and fro). Trying to pacify the girls, I allowed them to create cards on Smiggle website (AGAIN!) I started to work and then lo and behold... An email pop up on my screen ~~~ from the principal. I was bracing myself for not so good news but before I opened it, I said a little prayer. I couldn't believe my eyes when I read that he has good news for me. Hahaha. I jumped up and down, did a little jiggy dance, my girls looked up but resumed their "work" on their Smiggle's card. I told them the good news but they just smiled at me. Huh! Funny Moment!

That lifted a little thorn (okay, big thorn) on my chest! The priest called me in the afternoon, I don't even know where he got my number but he confirmed that I can just bring the girls to St. Peter, that everything is alright now. That I don't need a letter for the other school.

God works in mysterious ways, but I know his continuous work in me. I never learn. I never fathom that he wants me to be PATIENT and to ALWAYS PUT MY TRUST IN HIM. I always had to do something. And, my something is not enough until HE DOES HIS WAY.

December To Remember : Laughter

2011-12-04T09:50:00.000+08:00

Laughter. It's such a sweet sound especially coming from the people closest to your heart.

We were on our way to the city via train and Dawter T asked if we can play World's Longest Sentence.
We were all being silly with the words. We laughed from Albion to Melbourne Central.

Pre said, "This is the best day ever!" Hahaha

December to Remember : Oh Christmas Tree!

2011-12-03T22:53:00.002+08:00

We were kinda late in putting up a Christmas. In fact, my not-so-sentimental hubby didn't want to put one at all! But, we had to insist, since it's our first Christmas here!

I was very happy to find the DIY Christmas ball. Good thing, I have some family photos with me. And, of course, I can't fail to mention the butterflies... That was a good find! I was thinking to add one everyone. I hope I get to find them every year. Hehehe.

My daughter asked me why are we putting butterflies in our Christmas tree? Hmmm, my answer was ~~~ Butterflies are pretty like you and Bebi A. Ok, not so profound... But, I just had to put them.

I've been seeing a lot of butterflies lately, at our backyard which looks like the untamed wild now hahaha and while walking outside. When butterflies visit, I feel like a friend is visiting me. I just get this nice, "it's a good day" feeling.

So, now, I just look at the colorful butterfly ornaments and I feel that it will be a good life.

December to Remember : Four Seasons

2011-12-02T05:40:00.001+08:00

Though we were looking forward to four seasons. The cold was the least we're after. We're finding out that Melbourne, for all its raw beauty, has four seasons in one day. Hehe. And, it gets really COLD in the early morning. One thing I've noticed is that you'll get numb to the cold after awhile. I remember my previous company where we had to work inside the data center almost all day and the cold was unbearable. It was sort of like that ~ but fresher (?) hehehe

Aside from the cold, I'm quite happy with the clouds. I was telling Dawter T how I can see cloud formations here while we hang our clothes outside. It's like a scrapbook page but I would say better. It gives me this feeling of serenity while I look at it, it makes washing the dishes bearable (LOL) coz I look at it while I do this chore. (Dishwashing is my least favorite chore)

December to Remember : Home Sweet Home

2011-12-01T09:24:00.003+08:00

Pardon the lack of projects but most of my scrapbook materials are still out there in the ocean or maybe sea. I am awaiting eagerly for them to come. I miss them so much...

Hehehe...

So. HELLO from Down Under!

We still don't have internet connection yet and I am connecting via Iphone which I'd say works pretty well for me. The speed is bearable and I am even on VPN at this point. VPN because I WAS SO EAGER BEFORE to start work. Now... It's a different story. Hehe.

The house that Pre found is very simple, it's out in the suburb, near the supposedly school where we want the girls to go to. Unfortunately, we were too late and they don't have a slot for Dawter T in level 4. I was quite worried and instead of being happy that our family is finally together, I threw a tantrum. Hehe. Yes, I did! I think the first time ever! Well, it didn't last very long coz my husband won't allow it to. He talked to me seriously, he didn't raise his voice but asked me to talk to him. I was so happy with this change in him, being far for a few months does wonders, hehehe...

My work is with the same company, they rehired me on contract basis. I work from home for a few months. Hopefully, for 12 months hahaha as the office is quite far from our place.

It's good to be back online even on a quota basis. I missed this blog. Hopefully I can get crafty soon!

Goodbye?

2011-10-28T17:47:00.001+08:00

Life (or maybe scrapbooking) takes you to places, to people you never thought you'd see or meet.

Anyways... I am not really saying goodbye to my Singapore Scrapmates but we just met up UNTIL THE NEXT CROP. Where and when? Not sure yet. LOL.

I was soooo inspired by Mareng E's vintage party that I wanted to make a kit for my friends to play with but I do not want to make a sample. Gosh! No! Hahaha... My guests are veteran scrapbookers, they know their way around. When my mind is not confined to work, I was thinking about papers and gimmicks for the crop. Initially, I thought of one sketch where everyone will follow. But, nah, the people coming have their own style and I wanted to challenge their comfort zone. It all fell into place when Sister C said, why not pattern it after Amazing Race! And, that was it, ideas just started to flow.

So anyways, I gave them start line task which was to guess a phrase in order for them to get their DETOURS. Then, once they finish their detours, they can get their sketch and kits.

The kits are composed of Amy Tangerine papers, my latest love. And, I was so happy that they loved it. It was so much fun playing with Amy's papers. Hayyy this is a lot like the love I had for the Love, Elsie line before. Hehe.

It was pure bliss. Giving them their own sketches proved to be a gem. Even with the papers and sketch, they still made it their own! More stories of Mareng B's blog.

Thanks to the yummy food that Bebang and Mareng E brought!
Thanks to the tools/stamps/etc. that Mareng B loaned us!
Thanks to Mader L for bringing the Selphy printer!
Thanks to Sister C for all her help with the conceptualization and for trying to find ink for the Selphy!

Love you girls!

My Butterflies Need a new HOME

2011-10-19T11:32:00.003+08:00

Please email me if you want butterflies/scallops circles (3inches), I've packed most of my scrapbooking stuffs and I don't want to throw my scraps of papers away. So instead, I punched butterflies and scallops. Please email me your address at totallydoodles@gmail.com and I'll gladly post it to you.

Sketch 271

2011-10-18T16:42:00.003+08:00

by SC DT, Dinah...

I got really frustrated towards the end of making my layout... Huhuhu... I wanted to undo the last few strokes which was to put the title and make a mess of it. Hahaha... Sometimes, you just need to close your eyes and let go... Coz I didn't have much time last weekend...

We're moving soon and with that comes packing of 12 years worth of momentos and personal effect. It's so hard for me to part ways with the baby bags that we got from Thomson Medical and other stuffs but I need to... I am limiting myself to 20-25 boxes ONLY! I hope we can manage it for I feel my scrapbooking stuff alone is worth 4 boxes already.

Featured Member at InspireMe

2011-10-12T09:09:00.003+08:00

I haven't been to many scrapbooking sites lately... I haven't even been updating my blog regularly. But, I still scrap to release all my stress due to the move and at work.

Since most of my papers are from Webster's Pages and I think almost everybody knows how I love WP, I did upload some of my newer layouts to their NING site. And, guess what, I was featured! Woot!

Thank you, Webster's Pages!

Sketch 270

2011-10-10T09:39:00.002+08:00

I tried mixing mists and I don't know if I pulled it off. LOL. Been using my new Webster's Pages papers which is highly unusual for me since I like to just look at those papers. Hehehe... I just can't resist working on them this time.

The sketch was made by Nanette and I hope you can check it out and all the other challenges at SC!

Made From Scratch

2011-10-06T14:30:00.002+08:00

I love the title, got it from Bo Bunny but it was so apt for this little girl. LOL. A week back, I asked her why is she soooo cute? She said she doesn't know, she's just cute! Hehehe...

Moving Forward

2011-10-06T14:27:00.006+08:00

This is very sentimental to me because this layouts marks my acceptance of the move, since I've finally scrapped it. It's 6 weeks to go and counting... This was actually the first layout where I used All About Me papers. In fact, I even used the die cut papers. But, it's like the title, I have to move forward too with my materials. Hahaha...

Sketch 269

2011-10-06T14:21:00.003+08:00

I've opened my Webster's Pages All About Me papers and I braved cutting it. It was painful but worth it! LOL!

Steve Jobs 1955-2011

2011-10-06T12:35:00.001+08:00

Way Behind

2011-09-29T21:04:00.002+08:00

I am way behind in posting my takes on the sketches. I was busy with so many things which I will blog later on. Anyways, I just stopped by to post my takes on the past sketches at SC.

More on my friend, E's scrapbooking party. I felt out of place wearing shorts and shirt. I didn't realize that they will really be in vintage "mode". But, it was so much fun and I felt that I was in seventh heaven facilitating the workshop. More on the workshop and the album we made.

Blog Your Heart

2011-09-15T21:04:00.002+08:00

While working overtime (yes, I was working but waiting for the server to start up), I blog hopped to one of my favorite scrapper/writer --- Stephanie Howell, and found her post about blogging from the heart... I decided to take part about what's in my thoughts and what's happening lately...

I couldn't believe how fast the days are... I am a bit worried because I spend long hours at work lately. I have so little time to follow-up on my things to do for the move. I haven't really found an international mover yet. I haven't prepared for the resale appointment. Though you'll give me a star for following up with my boss if I can stay with my current company. That's the bright light amongst the pile of to do's.

I just want to share about this. Yesterday, I had a good prayer time. I prayed for some important things, and some important people. And, it was so funny, a breakthrough came just when I told the Lord that I am letting go. I've been worrying about it for quite some time, and now, I am ashamed of myself BUT HAPPY. Hahaha...

Last Saturday, we watched one of my favorite cartoons, SMURFS. It made me cry... La La LALALALA La La La La...

The girls are doing great! My Bebi A had cough and it just suddenly disappeared after 3 swimming lessons. Hmmm... Should I still believe her pedia? He told me never to bring her swimming if she has cough. Well, it's gone now. Dawter T has been eating well and we told her that her tummy's getting big. She's becoming a little lady and it is evident from all the changes her body is undergoing right now.

On the scrappy front, I am doing a mini-album from scratch. I am very happy with the result. And, I thank my friend, E, for giving me this opportunity. Hehehe. I will be helping E on her scrapbook party and this album is the sample. I hope to incorporate techniques that would entice the guests to follow through with scrapbooking.

My server is still not up but hopefully it'll be anytime now.

An All Girls Party

2011-09-07T21:19:00.004+08:00

I was really not comfortable to hold a party without the hubby but I promised Dawter T that we would celebrate her 9th birthday with her friends from school. Well, I'm glad we did! It was so much FUN!!! Amidst all the screams and the shrills, the girls were so much fun to talk to. They're very mature 9 year olds.

I convinced the Dawter to hold a scrapbook party and a baking party and a spa party and so on... In the end, it was a scrapbooking party with lots of games. They had fun with the "pabitin with a twist"; and they ate a lot of corn dogs. Hehe!

Sketch 265

2011-09-05T23:59:00.001+08:00

The sketch was created by Nat. She's a scrapbooker that I really admire and I love her work so much.

I fell in love with the Amy Tangerine papers when I saw them at my LSS. I knew that these are the papers that I will use for this sketch.

Was very busy this weekend. Dawter T had her all-girls 9th birthday party. We taught her friends to scrapbook and I was amazed by their different interpretations. Then, on Sunday, the girls went for their swimming lessons and I got the chance to run off to my LSS and buy the new Webster's Pages collections. I bought the 4 kits (shame, shame, shame...) but I was very happy and guilty. Hehe... Hope to use them soon!

Product Challenge : ABC 123

2011-09-02T16:00:00.002+08:00

If you are like me who uses AC Thickers a lot, you'll probably have a lot of unwanted stash --- unwanted being the letters that you can't use anymore because they can't form any more words and you just don't want to mix it with other AC Thickers unless you buy the same font.

I've promised myself that I will housekeep those AC Thickers coz it's quite painful for me to keep them.

So, while thinking about a product challenge, it suddenly dawned on me, "Why not use most of them in my page?" Well, here's the finished layout. Hehe. I am mighty proud that the numerics of one of my AC Thickers are almost finished. It feels liberating.

Hope you can join me at SC!

Sketch 264

2011-09-01T11:27:00.005+08:00

It took me sometime to create my take on the sketch though I probably could have done and embellish more, I love that grassy hill, the flower and the title. I was looking for a stamp that has those script that you can't decipher lol but couldn't find one at my LSS.

Though we had a long weekend due to the presidential election and Hari Raya Puasa, spent most of it working. Working on my daughters' teacher's day presents lol (which I forgot to take pictures of) coz we still crammed last night and I had a late night meeting with my colleague from the US. I love the gifts though and hopefully I can recreate them for another event.

The Winner Is

2011-08-28T11:37:00.003+08:00

Message from Dawter T :

Thank you for taking time to post your favorite quotes! I will treasure it forever.

Congratulations, Liliput!

Please email me your address at totallydoodles@gmail.com.

Thank you!!!

Paper Swap + Scrapcake RAK from BellaIdeaScrapology

2011-08-28T10:13:00.004+08:00

I realized a few months back that my style is now almost always falls to romantic, shabby category. I guess it's because of the papers that I use. I just love those soft pastels and flowers that it's so hard for me to scrap with bright, fun colors. LOL!

Anyway, I met this wonderful lady when she joined Scrapbook Challenges Design Team. She is from Poland! Her layouts are really so beautiful. Full Stop. That's the only thing you can say because you will be left speechless. You have to see for yourself ---> BellaIdeaScrapology !

And who else is from Poland? Well, none other than Karola. I love Karola's work. I can browse through her blog all day and will be very happy.

So anyway, my co-dt member Agniezka", have this uber cool idea! She couldn't get Webster Pages' papers in Poland and I've been looking for Scrapcake papers. So she proposed this paper swap thingy! Of course, me, the WP paper hoarder has to grab this opportunity! Bought some Let's Celebrate papers, Trendsetter and Yacht club papers for this dear lady and shipped them. The next day, I received my Scrapcake papers! Woohoo! Ok, if you think that the postal system suddenly became like Harry Potter's owl system, nope, of course not, she mailed my papers the week before! Hehe!

So, in my possesion now are Scrapcake's 12x12 Bright Side of Life papers which was designed by Karola, a 6x6 pad, and a whole lot more! Thank you so much, Agniezka!

And before I forget and look at my papers once again, please stop by Agniezka's BellaIdeaScrapology for a CHANCE TO WIN these super gorgeous Scrapcake papers!!! Yes, same papers that I have now!

Thank You

2011-08-28T08:41:00.004+08:00

to all who posted comments for my eldest's thanksgiving RAK... We will announce the winner as soon as she wakes up LOL

Yesterday was something to be really thankful for. My long time friend, E, has started scrapbooking recently and I really admire her enthusiasm because she invited some moms and their kids to a scrapbooking workshop. And, I had the privilege to "teach" these kids, I was really nervous because I am not really a good speaker. I think it is because I am very insecure with my English. For some reason, it takes time for me to process the English sentence I am about to say. Hahaha. And, it's not about Lotus Domino/Notes, I do training at work but that's a subject matter that I've been working on for 12 years (gosh! I even had the guts to admit my geekiness).

Anyway, despite my inept and awkwardness, it was more fun teaching kids about scrapbooking than conducting trainings LOL. After getting over my nervousness, I just rattled on what I know about scrapbooking though I think the kids almost fell asleep during the time I was telling them about it. I should have just skipped that part and went to the misting demo by Sister C which was a huge success. The kids seemed to like it! Who wouldn't! Misting is like magic!

We then proceeded with the 9x9 layout. The layout is suited to kids (with their moms! hehehe). The moms did most of the cutting jobs while the kids pasted. They had fun putting double sided tape and making the elements pop out. What I realized is that kids have their own way of expressing an idea. Though, there were three clouds, some cut four which I really, really appreciate! Because I told them that although there's a sample, they do not need to copy it element by element. They can make it their OWN! CLAP, CLAP, CLAP! I am really so proud!

This was the finished layout by my friend, E. This is the sample that we showed to the class. I didn't save the sketch I did LOL as I drew it in a post-it note. Hahaha.

Again, thank you to my friend, E and her CFC friends for giving me this opportunity!

Sketch 263

2011-08-24T11:35:00.004+08:00

Wanna win some Prima papers + other goodies? Please click here!

There is a bit of story with those bricks. I cut ALL of those bricks from raw grey board and painted them twice with Picket Fence Crackle paint. Picket Fence is color white. My plan was to mist or paint them later on with brown. My two daughters couldn't help themselves. Kept on telling me that bricks should be RED. So I showed them a patterned paper where the bricks are in brown. But, my kids are idealist. They just wouldn't budged. So off I went to the LSS and bought the red crackle paint and applied another layer. 3 coatings of crackle paint turned out nice (and expensive LOL). Love, love this layout! And to top it all, I used Tim Holtz alphas for the first time in this layout. All other papers are scraps though so the expense is still bearable. Hehe. Result - priceless!

9 Years

2011-08-24T11:06:00.003+08:00

The LUCKY 9 BLOG RAK is still OPEN. Hope you can join us!!!

9 years flew by... I couldn't believe that my little first born is now at the her last year of single digit age. And, we've started acquiring some things that is inevitable for her growing body. *wink* No mention of boys yet so I am a bit relieved on that part. LOL.

Lucky 9 Blog RAK

2011-08-20T11:34:00.012+08:00

My eldest daughter is celebrating her 9th birthday this coming Monday and looking back, it is as if time warped and I got myself a 9 year old. This sleep deprived, not so hungry baby suddenly became this young lady right in front of my eyes...

She was this temperamental baby who couldn't sleep at night, kept daddy and mommy awake that first 4 months. Suddenly, she just slept the night through and I panicked. I asked my boss if this is a sign that she's sick or something (first time mom!), my boss laughed and she told me she has adjusted. Oh finally, right!

She was a very happy baby, never lacking attention. She went to all those phases from Barney, HI-5, Disney Princesses until it became Totally Spies, now I, Carly...

She used to say Cindewella... Totally have no "R"s... Now, she's the one correcting her little sister when she speaks incorrectly. She practices for her oral exams, not only in English but also in Mandarin.

She will always be our baby... And we will always be at her back, waiting for her to look back when she needs help, then we will walk beside her because that is the time to just hold hands and celebrate her success...

Looking back and more, here are 9 Things about Her...

She had to stay at the hospital for a week because of Jaundice

She started walking at exactly 9 months

She's very serious but once you get to know her, she will crack you up!.

She loves to dance, draw and write stories.

Her favorite subject is Math. I can't fathom how she could answer those complicated Math problems at her age but she does.

She loves salted popcorn.

She likes to lead her group projects or organize games with her friends and cousins ... aka bossy...

She sleeps with her fake dog, Fluffy.

She loves deeply.

As thanksgiving, we hope you can join us in this little blog RAK!
Please share with us a favorite quote or advice that you've read or have heard. I am planning to create a wall decor/layout for her with all those advices/quotes. Thank you so much!!!

These goodies are (my current fave papers) 16 A4 sized Prima Pixie Glen patterned papers, Prima stamp, Authentique alpha stickers, assorted Maya Road chipboards, MME die cut, flowers, brads, ribbons.

The birthday girl will pick the "lucky one" next Saturday!

Tim Holtz

2011-08-18T19:19:00.004+08:00

My cousin and I absolutely adore Tim Holtz. Period. In fact, if we met him earlier in our lives, he will probably be the first guy we'll fight about coz he's the first guy we both fell in love with. LOL! Anyways, the lucky chick went to a Tim Holtz class. I know! Did I already say lucky!

Much as she would have wanted to have him all to herself. She love me more! Sorry, Tim! And, she got me a birthday present. The first one was a video of him and her greeting me a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! OMG! That made my day when I watched it!

So who would have guessed that there will be more? Well, she did say she sent something for me and my sister!

And it finally arrived here in Singapore. An autographed APRON from Tim Holtz! Love love love!!!

Thank you, B!!! Love you!

These are the GOOD OLD DAYS

2011-08-17T16:05:00.008+08:00

I seldom :

1. add brads to my layouts but those were one of the first scrapbooking stuffs that I have hoarded and used... I used them for my daughters invitations or for cards...
2. use buttons with thread, maybe because I don't have pretty threads like the ones on the layout --- thanks to my good friend, Jolanda! She sent me these a few months ago. :D
3. use non-scrapbooking thingies on my layout; like notebook paper from Dawter T, paper clips from friend R (dipped on acrylic paint hahaha coz these were from the office and we go by the standard silver ones), staple wires...
4. use a photo of my pretty sisters on a layout... (from left (youngest); mid (middle child); right (me - oldest)
5. create splats of paints and mists on my layouts... But, my co-SC dt, Nat, really inspired me! You should check out her blog and challenge blog!

I noticed :

1. that I do a lot of grid layouts; when I am in doubt, I DO GRID...
2. that I am still scared to use my handwriting for journaling
3. that painting brads or dipping them in acrylic paints are sooo much fun!
4. that I love using rub-ons for titles because it blends well with the layout...
5. that my face is really huge on this layout!!! Bleh!

Sketch 262

2011-08-17T15:42:00.005+08:00

A very good Wednesday to everyone! I am back with Sketch 262. A very simple layout from me this time. Actually, when I finished this, I felt like it wasn't me who made this but Dawter T. I haven't done something like this (I think) in a long time and I really felt uncomfortable and a bit weird. The white space totally fazed me, it's not as if I haven't done layouts with a lot of white spaces but I am not used to layouts without "pop dots". Please head to Scrapbook Challenges NING site for more inspiration!

Well, this was US in 2007. Back when my hubby still has a LOT of hair (compared to now hehehe I am very sure that will be his first comment on this picture when he sees this layout). Hehe.

Last Saturday was Dawter T's first Holy Communion. Of course, the "good" mom made some souvenirs with special thanks to Bo Bunny for the free digitals on their website! My daughters and I bought these very cute rosaries from our parish which was kept in an "egg" container. Dawter T gave these out to her classmates.

Sketch 261

2011-08-11T12:07:00.003+08:00

It's not really Christmas but I just wanted to use the Webster's Pages Christmas papers from last year's hehehe And I have been using my gold embossing powder for quite a lot these past few weeks... May it be for scrapbooking or for my daughter's props for school. That's how addicted I am to embossing these days. Well, I've always felt that embossing is magic. And I need a bit of magic in my life to perk me up hehehe... The red sprinkles were Stickles that I spread out and the frames were chipboards that I pained them embossed with --- yes--- gold embossing powder! Hahaha...

I just didn't like how the upper right turned out. My handwriting is not really a "scrapbooking" font hahaha and that's what hinders me most of the time to write my journal.

Thank you for looking! Hope you can hop over to Scrapbook Challenges for mojo-booster challenges and inspirations!

Sketch 260

2011-08-03T17:08:00.006+08:00

Where did July go? Well, I know... It went to my server upgrades, late night meetings and late nights Criminal Minds marathon hee hee... Has anyone of you watch CM? Don't you feel like you need to check if your doors are locked often during the entire episode? Well, I've finished all 6 seasons and eagerly awaiting for the 7th. Hahaha...

Well, it's a brand new week and that means a brand new sketch at SC! This week's sketch is brought to you by our new DT, Bev.

I find it truly, truly amazing that these two photos are different people. The one on the right is my daughter, Bebi A. And, the one on the left is me... I am so happy that we look so much alike but I hope she is happy too... Hahaha... She was telling me last night that her classmate told her that we look alike. I asked which picture did your classmate see. "Ohhh the one when I was just born" Hahahahaha... Really??? That was hilarious! She was just a few minutes old and her face all gooey and mushy because a few minutes ago she was just inside my tummy... Well... I don't know if her classmate was psychic or she's just trying to be funny, hahaha...

SS13 : Look Beyond

2011-07-19T17:44:00.000+08:00

Today is my birthday, well, it's almost coming to an end in this part of the world but before it does, I would like to share with you all the sketch I contributed for Sizzling Summer Sketches at Scrapbook Challenges. Finally discovered the wonder that's called shapes in Photoshop Elements, LOL! All the elemets are from PE, even the splats.

And, here's my take on the sketch, it took me about 3 days to finish this. I didn't really work on it the whole time but I did experiment on my paint dabber, mists, chalk, Stickles, crackle paint. I know that it's not really much but my paints were very happy that they were opened and they get to breathe fresh air.

I am still not sure if mixed media is for me coz it made me wash my hands a lot of times that the natural oil is probably gone by now. The OC in me doesn't like my hands getting paint, Stickles, etc. Duhhh... It was fun though and I really hope that I will.

Btw, the upper right hand?! Do you see the key there? Pardon me, but I got carried away with mixed media that you couldn't really see the image of the key anymore. Hehe. But, it's a key that I cut free hand. I love that key though you can't see it. LOL!

For my birthday gift, I gave myself the gift of REST as a present. I've been working overtime most days lately that I just want to do nothing for a change. But then, it's hard to break habit for a day, I still checked my emails at work and still logged on today to solve one issue. But, promise, that was the only one. *wink*

SS09 : Chick

2011-07-14T09:59:00.002+08:00

This layout is based on my dear friend, Jolanda's sketch. With eyes closed, I used my Bo Bunny Olivia papers, cut them up, tear them and used them on this layout. I love this layout, Bebi A loves it as well. She said she looks so cute on the photo LOL

Sizzling Summer of Sketches

2011-07-09T14:43:00.004+08:00

Hope you can join us at SC as we kick off Sizzling Summer of Sketches... This is for SS06 which was designed by the fabulous and sweet, Natalie!

I also kicked off JULY with photos of my baby A who is no longer a baby at 6. Hehehe... I tend to scrap my eldest more, dunno why but my youngest tends to be goofy on her pictures hehehe okey, enough excuses, I am dedicating the whole of July to Bebi A.

SC Blog Hop Winner

2011-07-05T19:37:00.003+08:00

Since it's Bebi A's birthday today, I asked her to pick the winner.

Bebi A's pick :

Kathleen, please email me your address at totallydoodles@gmail.com. Thank you!

Born on the 5th of July

2011-07-05T14:03:00.001+08:00

My baby is 6 years old today. How time flies... Sometimes I have to pinch myself really hard.

She's a notorious flirt. Hahaha... She has a crush on Bruno Mars.
Loves to sing songs but doesn't like to read.
She's very sweet. Likes to be hugged and kissed.
She's very generous with her time, with her things.

She likes to eat pasta without the sauce, just cheese.
Or noodles with rice? Carbo-loading.

I asked her one time what she wants to be when she grows up.
She said she wants to be a mommy. She wants to take care of her baby. Huh~

So, I don't dare ask again.

I couldn't believe that it's possible to love someone this much.
But, I love her more, much more than when I first saw her.
Much, much more as time passes by.

Scrapbook Challenges Pit Stop #26

2011-07-02T00:00:00.007+08:00

Welcome to Scrapbook Challenges' Seasons of Change DT Blog Hop!

I am so glad you stopped by my humble abode. If this is your first time here, I am Sookie or Salme in most forums. If you've come by Kate's Blog then you're on the right track coz I am your 26th stop! If you just stopped in, please make sure that you start at Brynn's blog first so that you won't miss out on any inspiration.

Scrapbook Challenges is a NING-based forum. It has been around since 2007 in MySpace! Every week, SC posts an original sketch by one of the DTs to challenge your creative side. Aside from the sketches, the design team also issues challenges, "games" and tutorials. If you need mojo-booster, join Scrapbook Challenges (that is, if you're not a member yet)! And then, there's the thing about prizes! Every month, if you make a layout from the sketch/challenges, you are entered into a monthly draw for that month's grand prize! And, let me tell you, the prizes are AWESOME!!!

Onto this hop, here's a kick off to SC's July event, a sketch by our dear Brynn, who is also celebrating her birthday today!!! Woohoo, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRYNN!!!

And, here's my take...

And some incentives for all of you!!!

1. For one person who leaves a comment on all the blogs in the hop, they will get the Salt Air Collection from Cosmo Cricket.

2. For one person who does a layout based on the sketch and posts in the HOP ON section, will receive a $20.00 USD Gift Certificate to Scrapbook.com.

3. For inviting people to join the group one person will receive a mix of alcohol ink goodies from Ranger.
Colors may vary

4. One new member over the weekend will receive a mix of alcohol ink goodies from Ranger.

Colors may vary

5. And, a RAK from me by simply leaving a comment on this post.

Wow, lots of yummy goodies! I may be the last stop on the hop but don’t be sad coz now it’s your turn to join in. Make your way over to the Hop On Section of the forum for all the details.

Thank you so much for joining this Blog Hop!

Who Wants Butterflies?

2011-06-26T10:49:00.003+08:00

So I finally managed to clean up my scrapbook stuff. And coming from another weekend where I helped a friend sort hers, mine surely doesn't come to par! I have far fewer stuffs than hers hahaha which makes me very happy!!! Not that I am in the "shopping" happy phase! Definitely not! Hehe!

Anyways... I found out that I have wayyyy too much scraps! I don't like having those so I thought, why not use my EK butterfly puncher! Now, I have hundreds of butterflies waiting a new home.

Please email me at totallydoodles@gmail.com if you're interested. I'd probably throw in stickers/chipboards/sheers/etc. I will post anywhere in the world! *smile*

Thank you!

Sketch 258

2011-06-14T02:00:00.000+08:00

I will sound like a broken record to most of you but I love it when I use my papers... Coz much as I hate to admit it, I horde till they get old. Like the papers above. They are circa 2010 but after the last CHA, they are definitely OLD. My last two layouts were made from that same Prima batch.

Another item that made me giddy was the "she"... It was from my good friend, Tita Abiik. She gave me that Heidi Swapp embellishment in 2006 if I am not mistaken. My youngest was not even 1 then, and it was part of a "baby" kit. Well, time flies... I finally let go... I finally realized that "dream" baby album will not happen yet. Hehe...

Life's Portrait : A Layout for CSD Pinterest Challengee

2011-06-12T07:00:00.000+08:00

A new challenge for CSD. Got inspired by this...

and turned it into a layout... Happy that I get to use my old Webster Pages papers.

Please join us at Candy Shoppe Designs this June... Here are prompts you can use.

Go to the PINTEREST DIY Boards and find something to inspire a project. You can just use the photo as inspiration, or follow a tutorial.

When you post your project please include a link to the photo that inspired your creation!

The Quirky YOU

2011-06-11T09:07:00.005+08:00

This is the first time I joined another challenge after the grueling first half of 2011. Can I say that with my husband overseas --- I can scrap more? I can just hear my husband say "tsk, tsk, tsk"... *wink*

Just want to make it clear that I still do my scrapping after my daughters are fast asleep (ehem! just in case he come across this post hehehe)

I joined Punky Scraps Blog Hop which is ongoing til the 12th. I got inspired and wanted to do this sketch by Camilla. And, of course, to play with my mists and alter some alpha chipboards.

Tattered Angels Owner will probably cry when they see how I mist. Errmm, because I don't really mist hahaha... I open the glimmer mist and use the "straw" (is that how you call it?) and and flick my wrist hahaha I am still scared to spray because of all the possible booboos I can make. And, I love love love these Prima papers. Well, maybe in the near future... Or when I have extra papers...

The "YOU" were old Srap Within Reach's Alphas... Covered them with Pearl Paint Dabber and this time I did spray mist. Patted dry and then inked the sides and messed it up a bit with black chalk ink.

Hope you can join Punky Scraps Blog Hop as well! They're awesome!

Sketch 257

2011-06-07T03:00:00.001+08:00

My very simple take on sketch 257. I did the same night we came arrived from Melbourne. I was up all night because I have a server to upgrade and while waiting for my colleague to finish his task, I scrapped.

Also needed therapy for the lonely heart.

Sketch 256

2011-06-06T22:20:00.003+08:00

Due to our vacation in Melbourne, I totally missed last week's sketch which was created by --- yours truly! I was so harassed with all my work commitments, things to buy for the trip, packing and getting ready emotionally... Just want to share the sketch. Hopefully I can make a layout out of this one of these days.

Hand In Hand

2011-05-26T16:14:00.007+08:00

Last weekend, Scrapbook Challenges DT had a blast! We had our second DT Social with the theme of Olympics. We had games, challenges and questionaires to answer to get to know each other better!

Here's the sample layout that I made for the Swimming Challenge --- which was a challenge that should have transparency and swirl.

Our generous sponsors for the DT Social are :

Catching Up

2011-05-26T16:04:00.004+08:00

Work has overflowed and I am underneath the pile. What's worst, it will continue to pile as I take a week long vacation. But... Let it be... I should not think too much anymore.

I am multi-tasking now while my email client does something, I am blogging.

My last sketch blog was 252. I missed 254 while I was on business trip and Brynn posted 255 last Monday. So, let me just catch and post my 2 layouts here.

Sketch 253

Sketch 255

Winner... Winner...

2011-05-19T06:40:00.005+08:00

Sorry for the late announcement, I was out of Singapore and only arrived very, very early yesterday.

Without further ado, the RAK winner is :

Please email me your address at totallydoodles@gmail.com.

Thank you!

Scrapbook Challenges' "Thank You Pamela" Blog Hop

2011-05-06T23:00:00.011+08:00

Welcome to Scrapbook Challenges' "THANK YOU PAMELA" Blog Hop!

I am so glad you stopped by my humble abode. If this is your first time here, I am Sookie or Salme in most forums. If you've come by Helen's Blog then you're on the right track coz I am your LAST stop! If you just stopped in, please make sure that you start at Brynn's blog first so that you won't miss out on any inspiration.

This is a very special blog hop because it is dedicated to a VERY SPECIAL person.

She's the very first person who opened the door to my scrapbooking journey.

She has inspired me in the way she lives her life, her faith and in scrapbooking.

She's Pamela Young!

I've been scrapping seriously for more than a year already and I wanted to challenge myself,

that scrapbooking is not an ordinary hobby which I will forget after awhile. It is THE HOBBY with a heart! Something that will keep me going on even after the "honeymoon" stage.

I browsed through the Scrapbook Calls and found Pamela's call for Scrapbook Challenges.

I was quite nervous but I did get the courage to hit the email send button.

My application was a very late one and I haven't registered with the group yet (back then it was in MySpace).

That's why, I was very, very excited to have received Pamela's email that she wants me on her team.

It was my first design team!

Pamela and SC has changed my scrapbooking life forever.

I love Pamela's sketches, helped me create layouts that I won't normally do.

Onto this hop...

Here's the sketch I chose among Pamela's sketches.

It's one of my favorites!

Here's my layout...

Here are some RAKs for you!!!

1. One member who leaves a comment on all the blogs & in the hop will get Chipboard Borders, 12x12 Collection Kit and a 6x6 Paper Pad from To The Moon by Fancy Pants.

2. One member who post a NEW a layout based on one of Pam’s sketches and posts it in the HOP ON section will receive a package of Tim Holtz goodies.

3. One new member over the weekend will get the We R Memory Keepers’ Sew Easy Piercer, 4 Piercers, a mixed assortment of Divine Twine and 15 colors of DMC Embroidery Floss.

4. Lastly, a RAK from me by simply adding a comment to this post.

Wow, lots of yummy goodies! I may be the last stop on the hop but don’t be sad coz now it’s your turn to join in. Make your way over to the Hop On Section of the forum for all the details.
Thank you so much for joining this Blog Hop!

Sketch 252

2011-05-06T20:10:00.000+08:00

Sketch 251

2011-04-28T15:35:00.003+08:00

I am once again late in posting this. Time seems to be running soooooo fast and it's overtaking me and my ToDos. Have you ever felt that? Hehehe...

Here's my layout for Sketch 251. Can I be honest to say that I was intimidated by that girl on the sketch?! Hee Hee! So, I reused this photo of Dawter T... She was supposed to model for me but she's tired, hot and I think a bit embarassed. After all, we're in a bus stop! Hahaha...

Good Friday is also Earth Day!

2011-04-22T21:31:00.004+08:00

First of all, let me just give a shout-out on Earth Day activities at Scrapbook Challenges! There are challenges and games for you this weekend!

Sketch 249

2011-04-13T16:07:00.002+08:00

Very simple layout from me this week. This sketch is from my good friend, Jolanda. Come join us for this week's sketch and challenges at Scrapbook Challenges!

Sketch 248

2011-04-13T16:03:00.004+08:00

How I wish my husband and I have pictures like this? Hehehe... Well, here's last week's sketch at Scrapbook Challenges. Very simple, used my stash on this one... Love how it turned out! I am almost done with my cousin B's wedding pictures which I will give personally to her. Woohoo!

Springtime Inspiration at CSD!

2011-04-01T20:51:00.003+08:00

Welcome Spring!!!

Come join us at Candy Shoppe Designs as we welcome April and spring with this Etsy inspiration.

The challenge for this month is create a project from this collage!

Here's my layout for this challenge! It's my new favorite and really, really love this! Got the papers for free from my LSS hihihi... And, I misted (woohoo! finally gave my mist some lovin' and of course, my fave Prima swirls and flowers). Check out Candy Shoppe Designs blog for more inspiration from the other design team members!

Deadline is on April 30, 2011 and the lucky winner will receive a custom kit from our sponsor Cassie of Paper Issues! The kit features Crate Paper's Emma's Shoppe collection! Yummy!

All you have to do is create a layout based on the collage and add your link in the Linky Party. Please feel free to submit as many projects as you want. They must be new ones as of April 1, 2011.

And, before I sign off, the winner of the MEME blog hop is out! Do check us out at Candy Shoppe Designs to find out more about the winner and of course, the April Challenge!

Sketch 247

2011-03-29T12:42:00.002+08:00

A simple layout using Jillibean Soup papers. Papers I got for free when I used the ang pao vouchers from Made With Love! Yipee!

The photo was taken during Cousin B's wedding reception! And this layout is for sketch 247 by one of SC's DT members, Shannon!

Check out the other inspiration at SC's gallery!

Sketch 246

2011-03-23T16:25:00.003+08:00

I think this is the second time where I did a monochromatic theme. I just love that photo and the sketch by Shannon is just wonderful! Simple but with an ooomph! This layout really feels like magic to me! I was way far from the beach when my cousin R took this photo. I was wearing heels and if you know me, heels and I is a NO! It only takes a few hours before my feet look for something flat.

After the wedding and the lunch reception, the bride took me to her office to get the package with the Webster Pages papers and to Michael's --- no matter how tired she was! Hahaha..

She Inspires Me

2011-03-17T13:24:00.004+08:00

If there's one person that I know who loves Webster's Pages as much as I do, it's Jolanda! And, can't tell you how proud I am of her! She is beautiful inside and out. We met (online) because she made a comment on my Webster's Pages layout. And, I've been so blessed with her friendship no matter how far she is.

Just want to let you know that her layout is the featured layout of the week at Webster's Pages InpireMe! Woohoo!

Sketch 245

2011-03-15T00:00:00.002+08:00

This week's sketch was made by the fabulous, Natalie! Please check it out at Scrapbook Challenges. And, also just want to let you know that Natalie is the owner of the challenge blog, Punky Scraps! Do visit the site as well!

This is a layout of me and my cousin. We grew up together and was joined in the hip for almost 20-21 years before she moved to the US. She got married last year and she even set the date on the days I will be in the US. She made me feel really special doing that. Mind you, my boss was dilly-dallying on the dates but she didn't get tired waiting for my reply. I am so blessed to have her in my life, and I am also blessed that I was able to go to her wedding. I wouldn't want to miss it!

On Sale

2011-03-14T11:24:00.002+08:00

Mareng B is back! I couldn't be happier seeing new layouts from her!

She's also selling some of her stuffs. Please drop by her blog - Scrappalific!

Craziness

2011-03-11T15:10:00.002+08:00

Some randomness in our lives :

Dawter T scoring higher in her Chinese exams versus her English papers.
Sleeping at 11pm then waking up at 4am, not able to go back to sleep anymore. Sleeping at 2pm then waking up at 640am. Sleepness nights.
Winning a signed copy of Just One Of The Guys by Kristan Higgins by simply signing up on her mailing list. I love romantic comedies!
Bebi A whispered to me at church, "Mommy, don't get mad. But, someone from the bus gave me my favorite cookies." An aunty gave her a pack of Hello Panda and it's not her favorite cookie!
Learning to move on. Forgiveness.

Sketch 244

2011-03-07T23:59:00.002+08:00

I am very excited with my take on this week's SC sketch by Amanda coz I get to use the photos taken by my cousin R on cousin B's wedding. These photos were taken at The Cliff restaurant in San Francisco.

Little Girl

2011-03-03T20:57:00.003+08:00

It has been a long time since I've created a layout just for me. I love that I ripped open the packaging of Prima swirls, rubons, Thickers and . *grins* The Prima butterfly is from my very good friend, Jolanda! Thanks, Sweetie!

This is a picture of Bebi A while on a horse. The horse was not captured in the photo. This is the first time she rode one and she was so excited and happy!

Sketch 243

2011-03-01T00:00:00.000+08:00

Here's my take on Amanda's sketch 243. SC DT's are on a roll with the sketches. Be sure to drop by Scrapbook Challenges for fun and inspiration!

Spring Market Winner

2011-02-28T16:23:00.005+08:00

The winner of the Webster's Pages Spring Market kit is

Please email address to totallydoodles@gmail.com!

-o-

The FUN doesn't stop here.!!! You can still hop along with Candy Shoppe Designs Blog Hop Meme and win this lovely kit from The Paper Trail)

You Still Have Time

2011-02-25T15:39:00.003+08:00

for Candy Shoppe Designs Blog Hop Meme... Please hop on over for a chance to win this lovely kit from The Paper Trail)

And, I am also giving away a personal RAK by simply posting comments on this post...

Sketch 242

2011-02-21T23:13:00.005+08:00

Note : Candy Shoppe Designs blog hop is still ongoing --- please check it out HERE! Awesome prizes awaits YOU!

Sketch was made by one of SC's DT members, Cheryl!

And, it's another manic Monday... Wish it was Sunday... (one of the songs of my time hahaha) Week started with a head ache, body ache, etc. Then, lots of things to do at the office...

Moving on... Let me share something about the layout. This layout was created with a mix of old and new... Old patterned paper from Webster Pages and rub-ons from MME (which I loveeeee so much)... The new being the Prima goodies you see on the page. Love the swirls and those tiny resin flowers! Talking about them makes me really happy!!! Made the frame using one of the Prima masks (well, I made a mistake when I was misting it... So I decided to cut them out and put stickles on it...) I am so happy I get to use them!

Note to self : I should stop taking pictures at night... People can see the shadow on the layouts. Hehehe...

A Few More Days...

2011-02-21T11:44:00.003+08:00

Oh My Prima!

2011-02-17T09:52:00.005+08:00

Note : Candy Shoppe Designs blog hop is still ongoing --- please check it out HERE! This prize awaits YOU! (picture below ---> a lovely kit from The Paper Trail)

I have mentioned in one of my earlier posts that I haven't "scrapbook-shopped" for a long time... Well, I can now say that hiatus is over and I am in Prima high! Hahaha...

I went to my LSS last Sunday with one stamp in mind ONLY. The cute circus elephant from Imaginisce! And, guess what welcomed me --- Prima goodness in all its glory! Do you think I'll be able to hold myself and just look? Nope! I panicked and picked all the papers from the rack (but returned some "guiltily" when I realized how much I chose hahaha well, my friend who was with me that time was asking me incredulously if I was buying all of it...)

Then, I went to the Prima stamps rack and I couldn't resist the Jack and Jill collection. Oh my! Then, I saw the masks and flourishes. And, the rest as they say is history! Hahaha...

Good thing was my LSS was having a 25% off promotion! Woohoo! And I did save a LOT!

Ok... So that should have been enough!

But, wait, on my way out... I saw this girl queuing at the counter with what seemed like Prima resin flowers. I couldn't go back anymore because my family and extended family are waiting for me... Hahaha... But, from Monday til last night, I felt the need to go back. The resin flowers is all I can think about!

I did come back last night because my husband and I had a movie date. So convenient that the moviehouse is on the same mall as my LSS hahaha So before I met up with my husband, I went in and grabbed some of those resin flower, and errr some more flourishes! Hahaha...

Sketch 241

2011-02-15T09:11:00.005+08:00

Note : Candy Shoppe Designs blog hop is still ongoing --- please check it out HERE! Awesome prizes awaits YOU!

Here's this week's sketch at Scrapbook Challenges! Love this sketch created by Shannon, one of the DT members! I kept in mind what my friend, Jolanda, told me in one of her comments hehehe she said that why make it hard for one self by not using stuffs! I am really trying and closing my eyes while I cut my papers or rip open the packaging hahaha

Happy Heart's Day!

2011-02-14T12:37:00.002+08:00

Note : Candy Shoppe Designs blog hop is still ongoing --- please check it out HERE! Awesome prizes awaits YOU!

Here's my crafty attempt for Valentine's Day... I did this for one hour, made around 16 pieces for my daughters' teachers and classmate and of course, for friends...

Happy Valentine's Day!

Everyday is L O V E day... Spread the love...

My February Resolution

2011-02-08T11:07:00.002+08:00

Note : Candy Shoppe Designs blog hop is still ongoing --- please check it out HERE! Awesome prizes awaits YOU!

For January, not adding flowers and swirls on my layouts was a bit hard. I am finding hard to find my niche again. I feel that my layouts are lacking something. Well, if I am not too stingy with supplies, my layouts will probably be full, LOL!!! I hold on too much to my supplies to the point that I don't want to use them hahaha... Do you sometimes do that?

So now, my February resolution is to be ALL OUT on my papers/embellishments. It's time to purge. A little FYI though. Aside from the gifts and prizes, I HAVEN'T BOUGHT ANY SCRAPBOOKING SUPPLIES FOR 2 MONTHS!!!

Can you believe that? Just awhile ago, I answered SC's GTKY Monday and one of the questions was how much do you spend on scrapbook supplies. Hehehe... Well, that means I saved some for 2 months. Well, I need to save with all the wonderful new papers from Webster's Pages, Prima, Pink Paislee....

Sketch 240

2011-02-07T23:00:00.000+08:00

Note : Candy Shoppe Designs blog hop is still ongoing --- please check it out HERE! Awesome prizes awaits YOU!

This week's sketch was created by the fabulous Natalie! Come on over at Scrapbook Challenges and check it out!

I had fun playing with paint. As you can see from my layouts, it's very seldom that I use pain on my projects. One --- I am SCARED... Two --- I am VERY SCARED... But, with the help of Dawter T, I conquered my fear or was it just the thought that I have a few more kraft papers... Hahaha...

Tenth Stop on the Candy Shoppe Designs BLOG HOP MEME

2011-02-06T14:00:00.000+08:00

Welcome to Candy Shoppe Designs Blog Hop MEME!

I am so glad you stopped by my humble abode. If this is your first time here, I am Cinnamon Swirl. I am a new design team member at Candy Shoppe Designs, and I am so happy to be part of Candy Shoppe Design team!

Onto our hop, if you've come by Myia aka Brown Sugar 's Blog then you're on the right track coz I am your 10th and last stop! If you just stopped in, please make sure that you start at Candy Shoppe Designs first so that you won't miss out anything.

This is not your usual blog hop... It's a MEME blog hop where we can get to know each other better! In addition, it will also get us to write/journal our thoughts, I am so guilty of just creating a page without any journal.

Here's another thing I am guilty of, let me share this with you... *wink*

My husband loves to share the fact that I hide junk food in my closet. As if my family and friends didn't already know that I had a sweet (and salty) tooth. I keep everything from Doritos and Cheetos and Chocolates in there. Hidden from everyone else because I'd rather not share. I only raid it when everyone is asleep at night and I can have it all to myself while I watch my favorite shows on TV.

this is one of my first few layouts hehehe circa 2007... oh how time flies!!!

That's my guilty pleasure. What's yours?

Another one of my guilty pleasures is scrapbooking stuffs and by joining this MEME blog hop, you'll have the chance at winning this uber yummy prize from The Paper Trail, CSD's February Sponsor!

About The Paper Tail (Candy Shoppe Designs February Sponsor) : "Scrapbooking is all about leaving a paper trail of you for your family and future generations to come. Webster’s dictionary defines paper trail as: documents from which a person's actions may be traced. Doesn’t that just sum up exactly what we do when we create a scrapbook page? We leave a trail of us – what we have done, who we are, etc" ~~~ excerpt from Karen (owner of The Paper Trail)

Now, it's time to leave a trail...

1. If you leave a comment on this post and the blog posts after this *wink*, you will be entered into a drawing for a Webster's Pages Spring Market paper kit! You have until February 27 to do so, will announce the winner on February 28!

2. Then, hop on over to your blogs and write the answers to at least 3 MEMEs... Then, link up your post to Candy Shoppe Designs for a chance to win the February Main Kit of The Paper Trail!

Can't wait to read your MEMEs! Thank you for playing along with CSD!

I joined the Candy Shoppe Designs BLOG HOP MEME!

2011-02-01T22:30:00.008+08:00

Hi there! Candy Shoppe Designs Blog Hop MEME is ongoing! Hope you can have fun with us and answer the MEMEs posted by the design team!

Here are my answers to some of the MEMEs :

What is your favorite or most recent Etsy purchase and who are your favorite Etsy sellers?
Love that through Etsy, lots of creative minds have been given opportunities to share and sell their stuff. Haven't indulge myself yet though. *grins*

What would you like to tell a teacher who has changed your life?
This is for my class adviser during my senior year in High School...

"You paved the way to where I am now. You are an inspiration because after all that you've been through, you've bounced back and you're stronger than ever. Your life is a picture of perseverance, strength and confidence. You helped me believe that I can do whatever I set my mind to. And of course, you taught me that Algebra and Physics can be fun too! Hehe... I am so glad that we're friends after all these years. Thank you very much for everything!"

Did you marry your first true love?
Yes! My husband is first and last love! Despite the quirks and the misunderstandings, life with him has been wonderful! We have our shares of ups and downs, we laugh and cry, we talk a lot. "He completes me"... (from Jerry Maguire)

FOUR random examples as to what makes me, me.
* I am actually very shy. I am usually seen at the back of the room trying to blend in the background. Huh! But, once you get to know me, I can talk a mile a minute, laugh out loud and you'll have a friend for life. *wink*

* One of the things I love in my current workplace is that I can come to office in jeans and Birks/flipflops.

* I love potato chips but I haven't eaten one since June 2008. I do eat french fries though.

* I cry easily. You can catch me sniffing while reading or watching tv/movie.

A story about a favorite pet:
I never really had a pet but we had a few dogs while I was growing up. The one that I have fond memory of is our Pekignese, "PX". Her previous owner called her "Lavern". And everytime we call her that, she will tilt her head, trying to be cute! Hehe!

What are your favorite WORDS or word that you find yourself using most frequently?
Living in Singapore for almost 12 years made me acquire one of their phrases "AIYOH". (It is most commonly used to express dismay hehehe...)

Is there somebody out there in this world that you once knew or still know that you never got around to sharing your true feelings to? There may be more than just 1 person out there, maybe you're the silent and shy type, maybe you won't say it because you know that they already know what you feel. Who is this person and what would you say to them if they were standing in front of you at this very moment? (LOVING words ONLY!)
"I was never angry, never dismayed. In fact, we should be thankful as to how life paved for our blessings. Everything happened for a reason and we should always look at the positive side of things."

Have you ever met a celebrity? If so, who?
Unfortunately, I haven't met any yet.

Who is your celebrity crush and why?
Too many crushes hahaha one of them is Ryan Reynolds. Not sure why but I love his movie, "The Proposal".

What's your guilty pleasure?
You can see the answer in my post below.

Don't forget to link up to Candy Shoppe Designs after you've answered the MEMEs!!!

Sketch 239

2011-02-01T00:00:00.000+08:00

I am very excited to share with you Sketch 239 at Scrapbook Challenges! I did this at the office with my lunch buddy, R! I closed my eyes and used my Webster's Pages papers hahaha It's a feat for me to do this...

I still haven't used flowers and swirls but I wanted to. I feel that it is so bare hehehe... Well, it's February now. So, I can challenge myself with another thing... Hahaha!!!

An Invitation

2011-01-31T23:59:00.001+08:00

sponsored by THE PAPER TRAIL

I Spy Thursday

2011-01-27T17:01:00.003+08:00

Hmmm... I am not sure if I am gonna do this in weekly basis but it always fall on a Thursday... Well, I just started it last week but it seemed fun!

For today, I spy a comeback to scrapbooking world for my dear friend, Mader L!!! Woohoo! I am so happy! Please check out her super gorgeous layout!

An invitation above this post!!! *wink* Hope you can join us on February 1!!! And there's still time for your January challenge submissions at Candy Shoppe Designs!

and

new challenges at Scrapbook Challenges!

Scrap Idol

2011-01-26T06:00:00.001+08:00

If there's one person I admire in the scrapbooking world, that's Filipina, Iris Babao-Uy! That's why when I saw the email from my LSS, Made With Love, I immediately emailed my sister to book a slot for me (I was in the Philippines then).

The day came and all I can say is that I am so happy I came to her workshop. I love all the techniques I've learned from her. She's really an icon in the scrapbooking world not only because of the projects she makes but also because she's super nice to talk to.

And, I would like to congratulate her for being the Design Team Lead at Webster's Pages! All the best, Iris!

Scraps

2011-01-25T14:54:00.003+08:00

It's a rainy Tuesday afternoon. And, Tuesday not being my favorite day haha (because of my team meetings) just made it all the more gloomy.

I am sitting here at my cube itching to scrap. After all, I need a "pick me up" but since I am at work. I can just blog. Hehe. That got me into thinking what do you usually do with your leftover papers? Do you make cards with them? Use them as matting?

For me, I try to use all the papers in one layout coz I am not that fond of leftover. I seriously don't know where to keep it. I get to use most of them because I use them as matting, layer, etc. Well, of course, there are times when I don't get to finish ALL of it. I just stack them on the same stash as with the other scraps or with the same manufacturer stash.

Till here. Hope you're doing great this Tuesday!

Sketch 238

2011-01-24T23:59:00.001+08:00

This was Bebi A's first pony ride (ok horse was cropped). She had a blast! She wasn't scared a t all. Afterwards, she was a bit wistful because she didn't a full photo of her horse.

This is for Sketch 238 at Scrapbook Challenges. Hope you can join us this week at SC!!!

Crazy Baby

2011-01-21T15:25:00.004+08:00

I love that you said that "when you grow up, you want to stay at home with your baby."
How funny you are when eating vegetables. You eat everything around it and leave it until we just tell you not to eat it.
When you don't care what you wear as long as it matches colors.
The long way you've gotten from being a very shy girl to Ms. Congeniality!
You cry when you've become embarrassed about something like not being able to eat your beef cubes because your tooth is moving.

These are just some things, there's a lot more. But, you are still my Bebi... Will always be...

I SPY

2011-01-20T15:17:00.005+08:00

a picture of myself at Iris Babao Uy's blog, hehehe...

the new droolworthy Ladies And Gents collection at Webster Pages... And also the new Silhouettes... Yumm-y!!! Those are my faves and must-haves at the moment... Sigh...

my dear lunch kaki (kaki aka buddy), R's new blog... please check her lovely scrapbook creations! Starting Monday, we'll be "lunching" in and scrap! Hurray!

it's already Thursday and that means there's a lot of new challenges at Scrapbook Challenges

and

I hope you'll join us at Candy Shoppe Designs for the January challenges! Lynette is this month's RAK sponsor!

My January Resolution

2011-01-18T09:54:00.003+08:00

Yes, only for January.

I've noticed that almost all my layouts for the past few weeks have swirls and flowers on it. And, I would like to break away from that for awhile... Well, until the end of the month, hehehe... So, I will shelve my flowers and swirls and will try new designs and possibilities. I hope I can do it though. I realized flowers have been my go-to embellishments and if I ran out of ideas, I tend to add it on.

What's yours? How do you break free from scrapping routine? Hehe...

Sketch 237

2011-01-18T09:40:00.003+08:00

Another week, another sketch at Scrapbook Challenges. If you're not a member yet, please check out Scrapbook Challenges, you will not be disappointed with all the inspiration, friends you'll meet and wonderful prizes from our sponsors!

My weekend was pretty hectic. Early Saturday morning, without even eating breakfast, went to my LSS and had 4 hour scrapping fun with my idol, Iris Babao-Uy. She came to Singapore to teach 4 classes. But, that's for another blog entry. I was also on-call at work but it was fairly quiet aside from the assigned job I had to finish early Saturday night.

Then, Sunday was spent at Church and malling. Had to buy school shoes for the two little ones. And, since it's 2 weeks past since the classes started. Sizes are not available anymore and had to move from one place to another. We capped the night with dinner with Sister C's friend.

January Challenges at Candy Shoppe Designs

2011-01-12T17:22:00.009+08:00

Yey! The January Challenges at Candy Shoppe Designs are up!!! Hop on over to view the other design team member's layouts which are all awesome! I tell you!

On to the challenges, there are 3 to choose from :

Option 1 : A Year Of All Seasons Challenge <--- click this link to bring you to the challenge prompt

Here's my take on the challenge... I fell in love with this layout. It's exactly what I had in mind. The picture was a recent one taken in the Philippines during our vacation. It also happened to be our wedding anniversary that day. Hee hee! The title and concept just fit perfectly to reminisce 9 years of wedding bliss and unblisss. Love for all seasons eh?!

Option 2 : It's Called Art Challenge <--- click this link to bring you to the challenge prompt

David in all his glory *giggles* OK, I shied away from this not because of the *ehem* but because I yet to think of something artsy to do. Ok, plausible excuse hihihi

Option 3 : WHITE challenge <--- click this link to bring you to the challenge prompt

My take on the challenge. I had a hard time on this though I finished this before the For All Seasons layout. It's because I don't have much white papers hahaha But after I found one, I was inpired by the photo and zoomed in.

You can create any layout based on the options above. As Lynette mentioned, the finished layouts are for you. Just link it up at Candy Shoppe Designs blog. Please take note that all layouts must be new but you can submit them to other contests/challenges.

You can create as many layouts as you want so that you'll have more chances of winning the monthly prize. Deadline will be on January 30. The winner will be announced the following day!

Hope you can join us at Candy Shoppe Designs this month! See you there!

Interested in sponsoring Candy Shoppe Designs, please send all inquiries to Lynnette Davis .

I'm A Lollipop Girl!

2011-01-11T16:36:00.005+08:00

Yey! I seriously couldn't contain this any longer... I received a very good news while I was on vacation last December!!! Lynette accepted my application as Lollipop Girl at Candy Shoppe Designs! I am so honored (and a bit nervous hehehe) to be part of this wonderful group!

I really hope that you can take time to drop by Candy Shoppe Designs! The challenges are awesome and you'll be amazed by the talent and inspiration of the design team! Of course, there are prizes to be won too!

Pit Stop #19 RAK Winner

2011-01-11T13:54:00.004+08:00

is...

I would like to thank everyone who participated in SC's Seasons Of Change Blog Hop and the activities at SC site! I loved reading your heartwarming comments.

Please drop an email with your home address to totallydoodles@gmail.com.

Sketch 236

2011-01-11T13:45:00.002+08:00

New term and a new sketch at Scrapbook Challenges! This is an old picture way back when digital cameras were just starting to boom... Oh how time flies! Dawter T was just a year old then.

I still owe you a winner on the RAK below... Will create a separate post on that.

Scrapbook Challenges Pit Stop #19

2011-01-08T00:00:00.006+08:00

Welcome to Scrapbook Challenges' Seasons of Change DT Blog Hop!

I am so glad you stopped by my humble abode. If this is your first time here, I am Sookie or Salme in most forums. If you've come by Patricia's Blog then you're on the right track coz I am your 19th stop! If you just stopped in, please make sure that you start at Pamela's blog first so that you won't miss out on any inspiration.

And, Yesssssssss, I am so happy to tell you that I will still be designing for Scrapbook Challenges for another term!

Scrapbook Challenges is a NING-based forum. It has been around since 2007 in MySpace! Every week, Pamela issues an original sketch to challenge your creative side. Aside from the sketches, the design team also issues challenges, "games" and tutorials. If you need mojo-booster, join Scrapbook Challenges (that is, if you're not a member yet)! And then, there's the thing about prizes! Every month, if you make a layout from the sketch/challenges, you are entered into a monthly draw for that month's grand prize! And, let me tell you, the prizes are AWESOME!!!

Onto this hop,
And, here's my take...

Did the sketch make you want to scrap now? Here are some more incentives!!!

1. For one person who leaves a comment on all the blogs in the hop, they will get the new Spring Market collection from Webster's Pages, including chipboard buttons and twine.

2. For one person who does a layout based on the sketch, they will get the Be Mine collection from Echo Park Paper Company.

3. For inviting people to join the group, one person will get a collection of adhesive from Helmar.

4. For one new member over the weekend, they will get some new stamps from Unity and Webster's Pages.

5. Lastly, a RAK from me by simply adding a comment to this post.

Thank you for dropping by!

Be more inspired and hop on to BECKY for the next stop!

Welcome 2011

2011-01-05T14:35:00.005+08:00

Happy and blessed New Year!!!

First of, I would like to apologize that I was not able to finish my December Daily. Preparing for vacation and being on vacation really was a whirlwind of activities. Thus, the lack of output... But, we had fun going back to the home country. The girls had a blast!

The girls fished (in their pajamas), played with chicks/dogs/goat and had a good time!

They also cleaned up nicely and were attendants to my cousin's wedding.

Day 12 : Funnies

2010-12-13T14:59:00.002+08:00

After a very LONG day...

Dawter T to Bebi A : Who Are You? (do you think she got amnesia because she was so tired?)

Bebi A : I am A, your sister...

Hahaha...

Day 7 : Different Answers

2010-12-07T23:59:00.000+08:00

But answers, nonetheless.

Last night, I prayed that my meeting will get cancelled. Hahaha. Well, it didn't. But, my team meeting went well.

Day 6 : Hang Over

2010-12-06T21:49:00.001+08:00

Every Monday, my body feels so tired. My spirit is still in bed sleeping. It's definitely weekend hang over. Don't you notice that there's a lot of absences on Mondays. So maybe, I am not the only one feeling this. Hehe.

Day 5 : Pressing The Wrong Button

2010-12-05T11:45:00.000+08:00

We usually have instances in our daily lives when we press the wrong button of a person. However, it's a good thing that there's a reset button as well, we can start anew by saying sorry...

Day 4 : Simple Pleasures

2010-12-04T23:41:00.000+08:00

The girls went to a party... Afterwards, we passed by the playground and asked if they can play on the swing. Later on, they saw a Labrador.

Looking at the two of them, with simple needs and wants, I couldn't help but feel the joy of having them in my life. Despite the fact that they do asks for things, they don't throw tantrums if we cannot give it to them. And, most of the time, it's the simple things that make them very happy... Like playing with dogs, going to the playground or just hanging out...

Day 3 : Appreciate

2010-12-03T11:53:00.002+08:00

With all the buzz that the world has created, sometimes we don't stop and think about the people we love. That a day shouldn't pass by without telling them I love you.

Let me just share this overwhelming love for the 3 closest people in my heart.

My husband. We are not perfect. In fact, we always argue, bicker... But, I love you. You have a way to put a smile on my face. You take care of me. You tell me things I don't want to hear and put up with the frown that forms in my face when I hear that I'm wrong. Only you can put up with that.

Dawter T. You are not showy. You quietly observe. But, you have a BIG heart. You don't want other people to be hurt. You always give and try to understand. You achieve more than we can hope for. You are the little lady we hope you to be. (Don't let mommy's scolding tell you otherwise. Hehehe)

Bebi A. What can I say but just seeing you smile makes our world happy? You are the sunshine amidst the cloudy days. Your hugs are medicine for a painful day.

Christmas Rolls

2010-12-03T11:02:00.003+08:00

is up at Scrapbook Challenges Tutorials section.

Christmas Rolls Tutorial