I'd rather be scrapbooking...

Pity Party For One - Cancelled. Time to get a Life!

2012-01-01T17:40:00.000-08:00

Can't say I'm not happy to see 2011 in the rear view. I had pretty much given up on the balance of the year and was just waiting it out. Sometimes that's all you can do. Just wait for that unwelcome guest to just hit the road. There were some good things this year, but more still it seemed that the year just both got away from me, and got me down.

I think the highlight of the year had to be Mike graduating and completing his history degree, the renos we did and finding out that our friends are having twin girls. Some pretty fantastic stuff.
My best turnaround moment would be my surgery and finally having some relief in my shoulder.
My darkest and most saddest moment was definitely at 3pm on July 30th. Saying good bye to Tucker really paralyzed me. I still cry a little bit every day. My heart is still broken, but I'm trying to just focus on the fact that he was so sick it was would not be the loving thing to do to keep him with us.

Now, it's clean sheets, a new day, new opportunities to move forward in life. To look at my goals, get back some of my creative energy, renew friendships that I pushed away without realizing that I did so. It's time to enjoy life and find my humour again, not just my be a shell of myself,

I really honestly can't wait to see what I make out of 2012. Let's do this thing.

It's Crop for Kids 2011 again!!

2011-09-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's the end of September. Firstly, it's been almost 2 months now since I had to say goodbye to Tucker. I wish I could tell you that I'm bouncing along and on my merry way of being grief free, but no, not so much. In fact tears are still a daily occurrence. Whether it's just a flash memory of something, or I stumble and call out for him to come for a walk or the bottom of the bed just seems so vast and empty without him curled up. I miss him dearly.

My back surgery went well, I'm healing very nicely and will be back at the gym in just a couple of weeks! Hooray!

But the big news of the day is we have already arrived at Crop For Kids! This year has flown by. It seems like only yesterday I was planning with Sandra from Memory Workshop what class to teach. I'm excited and nervous, like normal. My usual MO is to just claim that I'm nervous and terrified of speaking to a large group of creative women blah blah blah. Sometimes the truth dressed as joke really is just the truth!

Here is a peek at my class project. I sure hope the ladies like it..

Aside from the class, my projects over the weekend will be Christmas cards. It's my favorite time of year.. Christmas Cards. Of course if you want me to send you one, you better speak up!! I love sending cards.

I'll catch up with you all live from the Crop.

Cheers,
Hayley

Thank You

2011-08-31T23:43:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note (as I'm recovering from my surgery today and shouldn't be sitting in front of my computer - but I can't sleep right now) -

Thank you to everyone who took the time to leave me a comment on my last post. I've been so sad and heartbroken that I couldn't really talk about it without crying, so I couldn't reach out to you earlier to say thank you.

I just didn't want anyone to think I didn't appreciate your kind words because I absolutely did and they really helped.

So thank you my friends.

H.

My Broken Heart

2011-08-01T22:54:00.000-07:00

Our hearts are broken and are the weight of lead. Sometimes it's hard to breathe and I can't see because my tears make everything blurry. My husbands tears break my heart all over again.

We love you Tucker and miss you so very very much.

just had to post this too..

2011-05-28T21:48:00.000-07:00

Just to put this in perspective for those that do not live in Vancouver - this was on Yahoo.ca sports - a resident of downtown Vancouver put her camera on her balcony to record the city's reaction to the Canucks game. So when Kevin Bieska scored the winning goal in double OT against the sharks last week this is what was heard - and only in a small part of Vancouver too. This is INCREDIBLE.

Meet Tom Welling..

2011-05-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Yup, that's right folks, you heard it here. Tom Welling is in da house....WOOOT WOOOOT (just making sure I maintain my lame quota for the day)
Anyway, I know it's been like forever, and I have so many different things to share that I really don't even know where to begin. So let's start with Tom Welling.

If you know me, you know that I don't just love Smallville, I LOVE SMALLVILLE, and sadly it's over. (I miss you Clark) I've been in mourning for 3 weeks now. It's probably only 2 weeks, but it feels like forever. So I decided to do something wild and crazy, that's right - I gots me a fish, and his name is Tom Welling.

Tom Welling lives on my desk at work. He is awesome. I know he's just a fish, but seriously he's a curious little dude. He will swim up to the front side of his bowl and just hang out and stare at me. I love it.

So let me introduce you to Tom Welling!

Next topic of total Awesomeness...
How about my boys in blue..and white.. and green...

I am so thrilled they are in the Stanley Cup Final. If Hockey is not your thing, that's fine (sheltered and kinda boring, but fine none the less) so this is it people - you have to BELIEVE.
GO NUCKS GO.

For the next few weeks I am refraining from any Boston accent impressions, and will not utter even once under my breath "Wicked Awesome".

As for crafting... oh it's been dire around these woods. I did go to an OUTSTANDING retreet about a month ago. It was called "The Ultimate Scrapbook Retreat" and it completely lived up to its name. You know I got 17 layouts done!! I never get 17 layouts done. I think I'm running out of photos before layouts!
I'm booked up for next year, and I can't wait.

Here is a Shannon and me at the retreat..

One of the views..

Seriously, you are seeing correctly. Yes, we had an 80's theme one night - it was a blast.

and yes... there was even some scrapbooking and cards done too..

My other fun news.. Count down to August 5th... Russell Brand. Yes, I'm one of those strange women whom his charm actually works on. I can't quite understand it - but there it is. My friend Karin ( you may remember my valentine who gifted me my beautiful red mug that the hubster couldn't quite get it together to get for me) She got us tickets and I'm soooo looking forward to it.

and for my final confession..
I have discovered Glee. I know I'm a late bloomer, tis true. Damn that show is funny. If only I could run the lines like Sue Sylvester. She is wicked...oh crap, I mean she is FUNNY!

Update on Tucker: He is still really sick, but having still more good days than bad. I like to spend lots of time making sure he is pampered. All he seems to want to eat these days is dry cottage cheese. Poor little guy. The vet said he is doing ok, so we are just seeing how it goes.

So that about wraps up my first post in way too long. To who ever reads this.. thanks. xoxo.

I'll be back soon.
Hayley

If I ruled the world..

2011-02-20T22:01:00.000-08:00

1. Work weeks would be 2 days and weekends would be 5 days.
2. umm...that's all I've got.

So how was everyone's week? Probably the same as mine. Some good days, some ~~crap~~ ok days, overall not too shabby. This was my only weekend this month where I didn't have a bunch of stuff scheduled. So one would think I would take this opportunity to get out there and enjoy life! Nah, I took a nap on Saturday. Pretty luxurious let me tell you. The other highlight of my weekend was actually today. My lovely friend Mary surprised me by taking me out for lunch. Aaaaahh.. very sweet. Thank you Mary.

So as usual I had these grand plans of tons of spring cleaning, I mean light cleaning, because I'm not at all messy, ever. (insert nervous sideways glance and shift on the chair). But that's when the nap seemed to be the better option. I did however spend some nice quality time outside in this gorgeous, yet a bit chilly still weather. I did also want to scrap a bit this weekend, but I didn't quite get around to it. I spent that time reading everyone else's blogs.

I do have a couple more layouts to share (sorry for the not so awesome photography). Aaaaannnd two items of EXTREME CUTENESS...

and..

and.. now for some cuteness...

just kidding.. (yeah whatever)

Everytime I look at this bunny it makes me laugh, hope so for you too.

Now, if you haven't seen this next video yet, take a moment to watch, it's pretty funny.

Have a wonderful week peeps.

Peace.
HtotheG

waaaah.

2011-02-14T22:18:00.000-08:00

I'm a good wife, right? I like to think so. So today I'm stink'in mad people. What did I get from my sweetie, love of my life soul mate?

The mug I asked for 6 weeks ago because I knew it would be super popular and sell out?

no. That's a big fat NOT EVEN REMOTELY HAPPENING. waah.

A card? no.

Romantic dinner for two? no.

Well at least I got a hug before being told that tonight was a study night so hit the road and get upstairs.

Poopie.

Maybe next year.

So much with so little..

2011-02-13T16:44:00.000-08:00

I'm apparently trying this on as my new life motto. Not so sure how it's going. I'll keep working at it.

So I have some totally rad news. I won a fabulous prize from Pink Paislee recently. With the new CHA releases, I left a comment on their blog pretty much professing my undying love for the new butterfly garden line... See, beautiful..me likey, (total understatement!)

and I'm such a lucky ~~bitch~~ duck that I won. Can I get a WOOT WOOT? no? no longer hip, cool and totally happening? OK, never mind. Anyway, I'm pretty excited because while scrolling through the release looking at all the prettiness I kept thinking how much it sucks that we still have 22 months left of Mike being in school and bleck, it sucks that I can't buy this stuff. So thank you to the scrapbook gods for listening to my ~~inner whinefest monologue~~ plight and having this sent my way.

So what else, well I've been cropping a bit of late. Last week (had to stop and think there for a moment, the days all run together at my age) yes, last week I went to a VERY fun all day crop at Ranch Park elementary with my bud Mary. Had a really good time, got some layouts done. Yesterday I went to another fundraiser event with my friend Carrie. It was funnish. Not saying it was the best crop I've been too, but I can tell you IT WAS THE FREAKING COLDEST! Not that it was the fault of the lovely lady who put the event on, that would be the Coquitlam school boards fault for my blue fingers. How the heck are you supposed to channel your inner scrapbooking genius if your teeth are chattering and you just want to curl up in to a ball and cry for a heated blanket?

Now that's an idea. I think I need a heated blanket for my kit, and a wedgie pillow for those awful chairs they have at these crops. You know, the folding chairs where your ass slides down the back and you're suddenly sitting at the table about the same hight as a 10 year old?

Anyway, so at these great crops that I've been attending I've been ~~somewhat chatty and time wasting~~ extremely productive, just knocking off (and by that I don't mean copying I mean producing) layouts like crazy! Not only that, but I actually took photos!!! OMG! (sing it Usher Usher Usher..)

So now I have some blog fodder.

Since this is a long post, I'll just share a couple, and then when I post again, I'll add to it. You might notice a bit of a theme, Tucker.

I may have mentioned that Tuck has been quite sick since Christmas time. He's doing ok, but well at 12 with a terminal heart condition how well can you really get? He eats, he plays, he runs, he kisses my nose - life is pretty ok I'd say. So it's day by day, month by month. Three medications a day later, pee pads over the entire upstairs hallway which seems to be extremely confusing for a tree, and we just take each day as it comes.

and because this year I'm trying to also focus on me (what else is new). What I mean is that I'm trying to reach goals like I've never been able to before. I'm feeling very positive and full of enthusiasm!

Hope everyone had a bit of lazy Sunday and a chance to recharge them batteries ya got under the hood.

Bye!

Hayley

I've been banished..and it's a good thing!

2011-01-07T23:22:00.000-08:00

So, the hubster has started school again and I was told that since he's ~~a total masochist and crazy to boot~~ taking 6 courses this term that I am again banished to my scrap room. So I took the time this week on my few days off from work to rearrange, yes yet again, my room. I think I may have it finally worked out.

So long story short...I've got the space, and time to commit to a few projects. RAD! (Oh brother it's been so long since wrote that word, it's probably spelled incorrectly!) Who cares, you get my point.

First Challenge up... Nerdy Victorious Scrapbookers
Love their prompts. Each month they have an inspiration collage to draw from. They could really use a few more participants to spice things up. So have a look at the prompt and check out their blog. Maybe it will inspire you, like it has me.

I can't wait to get home from the States tomorrow and hop to it.

and yes, because it's still Friday, and well, I'm committing still to cuteness.. here you go...

Have fun creating. I know I will be!

Peace,
Hayley

A Winter Classic, A New Year and 1/365 ... Nice.

2011-01-01T22:52:00.000-08:00

Firstly, Happy New Year!
Secondly, How cool is it that it is seriously 2011.
Thirdly, Poor Sid. Still, it was a decent game. The Caps clearly wanted the win a bit more. I'm happy for them, mostly.

So here we are with a new year in hand. Lots of resolutions, plans, goals blah blah blah... I'm sure if I look at my resolutions from last year which did not come so much to fruition, I would likely be able to list the same ones. All I really want from this year is to find the time, no, make the time to pay attention to the details in my life. I think because I gloss over everything so much that I miss out on the smaller things that really are what life is all about. The kind of things that at the heart of it are the sum of our existence.

I want to spend more time with my friends and family, I want to live greener, healthier, be whole and yes, even find the time to create. This past year seemed to be all about just getting through the tougher times with a crap job, an extra job, a husband in school and I basically was just in survive mode. Well now, I no longer have a crap job - I actually like it. I'm down to one job (I miss the extra lettuce) and well, even though the husband will be in school for another 2ish years, I feel like we are more than half way home. So I feel pretty good.

Anyway, I just wanted to send the universe and those who may stop by on occasion a big HELLO! and wish everyone the best as they start their own fresh page for this year.

What are you going to do with the empty margins and clean ruled lines with nothing yet written?

All the best,
Hayley

Ummm....v2.0

2010-12-03T21:25:00.000-08:00

So, where the front door did November go? One minute I'm coming down from the Halloween candy high and then next thing I know it's a month later and hold the door open still... I'm turning 40 in 16 days..practically 15 I suppose since it's already after 12 on the other side of the country.

This year has gone by wicked fast - and I mean that with a true bostonian accent too. Thankfully the year is starting to wind down a teensy bit - for example, I only have a few plans this weekend instead of the usual home Friday night and back again Sunday. Stella will be happy when the alarm clock does not go off in the morning.

Not too much time for anything other than Christmas cards for the past bit. I'm mailing mine out tomorrow - so, that means ~~when I charge my stupid camera battery~~ in the next few days I'll post my assortment that I sent out. Then I can go back to canvas and other fun things. This weekend I'm working on my Christmas Canvas. Apparently I'm late...AGAIN... to make my advent calendar - and oopsie, I forgot to get Mike the Kinder egg one. He's too busy with final papers to notice yet, but I figure by Monday he'll be wondering.

So have you put your tree up yet? (Yes Izzy, I know you had all your stuff up right away, putting me to shame as always) I'm planning on decorating on Sunday. That's if Mike will pull the tree out from the storage closet which he has organized tetris style on me so I can't reach!!

Well if I had my way, my Christmas tree would like this, and I'd be as glam as this gal..with her cute little pug in the box..

Some funky ornaments would of course be required..

and yet, my tree is more likely to see these.. (Not quite as glam..)

Well I'm off to create something.. have a wonderful weekend.

ok..one more cute one, because it's Friday (still) and it's been forever!

Cheers,
H.

Salt of the Earth..

2010-11-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

That's what friends are. I made this card for a lovely friend (who doesn't read the blog, so it's safe) and I've not yet had the chance to send it yet.
I've got lots of lovely friends who are really wonderful to me. I'm very lucky.

Just thought I'd share a quick card.
Hooray, it's almost hump day!

Have a wonderful one.
Hayley

(see, I can too do a "normal" post!!)

Borrowed from Hypberole and a Half..

2010-10-30T14:45:00.000-07:00

If you have never visited the blog "Hyperbole and a Half" then you really should check her out. That is only if you want to laugh your ass off and feel much better. Hopefully I won't get a cease and desist order for posting this because it's just too totally priceless to me. So for the record, I did not write any of this, draw any of the pictures, nothing nada zip a doodle. It's 100% created by Allie. Now, simply due to time I did not ask express permission to reprint her post - so I'm an evil bad blogger...selfish selfish selfish.

So I risked EVERYTHING to do it for you!!!

So please go visit Allie at her disgustingly funny blog at "http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/"

And now..(even though I am against all animal (including spider) violence please enjoy!

(especially you Pope)

***WARNING!! Definite naughty language used!!***

Spiders are Scary. It's Okay to be Afraid of Them. *Updated*

I'm fighting a war. A war against spiders. Every night before bed, I check my sheets for them, shoe in hand, ready to brutally end their lives with way more force than necessary. Sometimes I find one and even if I kill it, I still can't go to sleep because it confirmed my fear that sometimes there are spiders waiting in my bed for me.

I used to pretend that I wasn't afraid of spiders. It made me feel cool - like I was braver than most people. If someone called me on my bluff and asked me to dispose of a spider, I would put on my battle-face and do my best to get rid of it without letting the panic bubble to the surface.

I don't pretend anymore.

I HATE spiders. Spiders are like little pieces of death wrapped in scary. Even if a spider was like

I'd be all

Sometimes when I express the hatred and fear I feel when I think of spiders, someone will be like "But spiders have families too!!" Like somehow that will make me become sympathetic and understanding toward spiders. But that's exactly the point. Spiders have families and their families are also spiders. We should kill spiders because they have families.

When I was younger, my mom would say "Sweetie, don't be afraid. You are way bigger than a spider." Well guess what, mom? I'm bigger than a grenade too. Were you trying to raise me to be some sort of unconquerable war-machine that isn't even afraid of grenades? If you were trying to do that, you failed. I'm afraid of a lot of things that are smaller than me - like bees and wolverines and centipedes. I'm even kind of afraid of ants a little bit.

Spiders are fucking scary. That is a universal truth. I don't know why. I don't need to know why. All I know is that when this:

comes crawling across the floor at me, my brain interprets it like this:

That is a spider with a swastika and the words "I KILL YOU" carved into its flesh and it has knives and guns strapped to its legs. That's how scary spiders are.

P.S. I just saw a spider on my stairs and I tried to squish it but I missed and now I can't find it.

UPDATE: Remember how I was like "P.S. There was a spider on my stairs and I tried to squish it, but no"? IT WAS ON ME. At least I think it was the same spider. Maybe it was just a part of the other spider's clone army. I don't know. The point is that I was like "happyhappyunaware" and then I looked down and there was a big, black spider crawling on the couch next to me and I ran away yelling "getitgetitgetit!!!" because I'm super brave. Then Boyfriend was like "I know what would be a good idea! I should try to stab the spider with my knife!" and he pulled out his pocket knife and tried to stab the spider and he missed and the spider ran away and now there's a fucking spider in my couch.

UPDATE: Okay, this spider is a survivor. First, it escaped being crushed by me on the stairs. Then it got away when boyfriend was trying to stab it with a pocket knife and it ran behind the couch. Tip: don't try to stab spiders - squish instead:

Boyfriend and I tore the room up looking for it and we couldn't find it. Then, I looked up above me and there it was. On the ceiling. In a completely unreachable spot.

UPDATE: Now it has a friend.

UPDATE: Boyfriend just killed the spider's friend using a box of Samoas© Girl Scout cookies.

The original spider is still too high to reach. (You're welcome for the free advertising, Samoas©)

UPDATE: The spider has been slain. It was an epic battle. First, I made a spider-free island in the middle of the living room where I could watch the action while still being reasonably sure that I would not become part of it. Then Boyfriend made a long, poke-y weapon and he climbed up behind the couch and went in for the kill. The spider did not die easily and its death will probably be avenged in some fashion by its clone army, but for now it is gone.

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Now go visit some awesomeness here!

Is it the weekend yet?

2010-10-27T23:51:00.000-07:00

I know that it's only Thursday (well, in a matter of minutes) but I'm just so looking forward to the weekend. Not for any reason in particular - well, I'm going to my first poker night on Friday, and Saturday I'm going to a Silpada Jewellery party - Oh my they have some beautiful stuff - but because I think Sunday it's going to be another day that I can just chill the heck out.
Seriously loving my new job. It's going really well - great team, interesting projects, really couldn't love it more unless I had a bigger paycheque and triple the holiday time - but beside that, it's great.

I think I'm just really excited that I seem to be getting back in to a rhythm that works for me. Day to day stuff seems to be settling down, leaving me with enough time and energy to create and also catch up on everyones blogs.

A few new ones I've found or been introduced through by way of hip hip hippity hop till ya don't stop which are totally worth checking out are:

1. A Creative Mint ( Holy Mother of GORGEOUS PHOTOS) I want to just soak my eyes in her lovely photos.
2. The Color Room - Another Ning Group with a Colour challenge. Tres Cool peeps.
3. Paper Issues - This is a new site that Cassie is a part of - and it's really going to pick up for sure. I just participated in the Halloween challenge. Loving it.

So have a looksee for yourself, you won't be disappointed. And if you are - then you must be on crack. There, I said it! You're on crack.

Now to make amends for my vulgarity (which comes so natch to me so..)

I know these are not really seasonal right now, but I'm just in the mood to make some general cards. These are all Stampin' Up! stuff.

but just to leave you with some serious cuteness...miss Stella says hello.

Okie.. I'm outta here for today. Can't wait to hop on over and visit some of your blogs. Thanks for saying hello everyone, it always makes me go..Yay!

Cheers,
xoxo Hayley (yup, still obsessed with Gossip Girl. I want a ringtone that says.. "I'm Chuck Bass" but I doubt I'll find it.)

Inspired and Challenged..

2010-10-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

So I've got some pals over at THE INSPIRED SCRAPPER who have this great challenge on right now. My friend and inspiration Jo W have posted a challenge about doing a project about yourself. A topic that I sometimes struggle with - hence the cards..anyway, I thought I'd giver a go. I found this picture of myself today while sorting through photos looking for something relative to use on a layout. I'm dreaming of going back to Paris right now, so it jumped right out at me. I had originally hoped to go 20 years after this photo was taken, but sadly that was um... 3 years ago in just a few months. So now I'm shooting for 25 years. Mom.. hint hint..I think we should go...

I chose to do a canvas rather than just a layout because..

#1.) I'm totally into canvas right now.

#2.) I wanted to hang this up in my "Paris" theme scrapbook room which yes is still undergoing ahem..redecorating. Just like life, it's a work in progress. I'm about 72% done.

I'm also totally in love with MME right now. Most of this is from the Lost and Found collection - Union Square. I cut the large flower with my Tim Holtz flower die cut, sprayed them with Crushed Shells Glimmer Mist and layered with Tulle. I embossed the chipboard heart with gold embossing powder. The little envelope holds a few notes that I would have like to been able to tell myself at 17.

The rest are just bits and bobs I found amongst my stash.

This was a nice way to spend my Sunday. I hope you had a wonderful weekend peeps.

Peace.
Hayley

Damn that's cute!

2010-10-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

Shhh.. can't talk - working here people!

Enjoy your dose of cute. I chose this one, because the weather has turned here in Vancouver, and it's now getting colder, darker and lots of rainyness. (yeah, that's right, I used "rainyness" what are you going to do about it??)

Have a wonderful Friday world.

XOXO
Hayley

Boo!

2010-10-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

So, I'm feeling a bit more in the zone. I had a nice quiet weekend past, allowing me to do a few things. I was able to catch up on some much needed PVR time. I seriously do not know what I would do without my PVR. How do people actually watch tv on the network's schedule? I also spent some time on Saturday working on a Halloween Canvas. It's crappy, not my canvas - but the fact that we do not get trick or treaters here where we live..a la Apartment Condo.. I still put a pumpkin in my window, and yes, I still buy ~~three or four~~ one bag of Candy (OHenry, Mars, Coffee Crisp - why do you have to be different manufacturers Gah! Anyway, I made this canvas to put up in a nice little spot where I decorate.

We have a Halloween tradition in our house - it's called "Let's watch the most grotesque disgusting films ever made and pause them when Hayley shuts her eyes so she's forced to watch the whole thing even if it makes her gag" Movie night! Let me share... 2 Halloween's ago I was forced to sit through not one, but both Hostel movies. GROSS. Last Halloween I thought I'd have a reprieve - oh no - SAW 1, 2 and 3!!
This Halloween apparently we're going for 4,5 and 6. Great, can't wait. (serious eye rolling here)

So what are your plans for Halloween?

Here's the canvas..

I painted the canvas with a dry brush and a bit of black paint just to give it a roughed up look. These are My Mind's Eye papers (The Spider's Web) as well as I used some of the die cuts. The three circles (pumpkin, spider and skull) I used glossy accents and a bit of glitter to give them some texture. The title is Tim Holtz Grunge Board painted with acrylic paint - making memories Meadow and Black, then embossed to give them a bit of a curl so they would lift off the page a bit. I even hand stitched the pumpkin paper. The crow is also grunge board, painted black (like the Rolling Stones, teehee) and then Glimmer Misted with Iridescent Gold. Well it wouldn't be a canvas of mine if there was no bling - so I've put tiny black and orange bling there and about. The little white felt ghostie is courtesy of Making Memories. The black flowers are Prima what else. I stamped the small "october" in the "31st" die cut.

The canvas was a lot of fun to make. It was a challenge though to make one without a picture. Give it a try, you'll see what I mean!

Take a deep breath..I know you're already peeking!

Here is a treat just because I'm a baaaad girl and I have no shame..

(Jesse Williams, Dr. Jackson Avery or something like that, I can't focus when he's on screen - Grey's Anatomy.

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.)

I feel dirty.

I think I like it.

Hey - this was on network tv, so seriously.. it's only a little dirty.

I'm going to play at a new sketch site this week. Waltzing Mouse Sketch Challenge Blog. I just loved what they are up to. Check them out, they seem like lots of fun.

Here is the sketch I'm working with tonight. I'll post my finished card as soon as it's done.

Ok my friends.

Go create something wonderful and have fun.

Hayley
XOXO (said just like on Gossip Girl)

T is for Totally Thankful..

2010-10-09T12:03:00.000-07:00

This is a weekend full of people (well in Canada at least) letting everyone around them know exactly what they are thankful for. Now, my neighbours to the south of course do not celebrate Thanksgiving until a little over a month from now - but ours is this weekend. Monday to be precise. So this weekend I am going to spend some time contemplating what I'm totally thankful for. Here is my prelim list..

1. My Family and Friends
2. My beloved Stella and Tucker
3. My health and those that I love and care for (ok, this is really tied with #1)
4. My job providing me the means to support my husband through school
5. That I have an apartment to call home (whatever renos are needed)
6. A hobby that allows me to be creative
7. Inspiration all around me everywhere I look
8. My husbands unfailing patience
9. Friends that stand by me when I'm distant and retreating in to my own little universe
10. Guilty Pleasures

and speaking of #6... here is my 2010 Thanksgiving Card. I had a lot of fun at Crop for Kids where I made these cards.

The products used are: Stampin' Up! Cardstock - Always Artichoke, Cajun Craze, More Mustard and Very Vanilla. Green Dew Drops, Twine and May Arts Crochet Ribbon (I think??) I stamped the leaves with just ink pads, starting with the lightest colour and then tapping down other colours in order of lightest to darkest. I'm loving Cherry Cobbler!! Ink colours include: More Mustard, Crushed Curry, Cherry Cobbler, Mellow Moss and Always Artichoke. And as always I edged with Creamy Brown from Colorbox Chalk Inks. I can not live without my Creamy Brown or Chestnut Roan.

Have a wonderful weekend friends!

Peace,
h to the g.

4 more sleeps...

2010-09-27T22:02:00.001-07:00

That's right.. Oh yes, ummm...hello.
I'm shocked to see it's been as long as it has since I've posted. I'm a bit sad about that actually. I feel like I missed a boat - well this years been a bit of a missed boat. But I'm back to a normal routine. Sadly I had to stop working my part time job at POTP. I'm not overly stressed. Busy yes, but not stressed. But what did happen is I was no longer able to focus on anything, and clearly I was stretched too thin. So I had to take a step back, and have a really long look at the ol' priority list.
So after a few convos with mumsie and the hubster, I was told it was time to pick a job and stick with it. So I had to focus on the main bread winning one to make sure all stayed good with that. Speaking of my new job (well as of August) I actually really love it! Who knew! Turns out it's a great fit and the company and people are really great. So check it - that's on the satisfied list. Hooray.

Now.. Creatively speaking I'm starved. I'm famished for time to spend doing what I love - and it's not amassing supplies - although I did just go mental buying pretty much all of the new MME lines. I left Christmas for next months budget. I can not wait to make some more canvases.

Anyway - to anyone who still pops by to see if I'm still alive - thank you for coming by and saying hello.

so 4 more sleeps until Crop for Kids 2010. It's going to be a great weekend reconnecting with my friends and community.

See you all then.

Love ya.
h to the g.

OMG it's a Double Rainbow..What does it mean??

2010-07-30T09:37:00.000-07:00

OK if you haven't yet seen this phenom of a YouTube video, you have to see it here. Mike showed it to me last week sometime and I meant to put this up for y'all last Friday, but I was ah, um, too busy getting a new job! That's right, I'm off to different pastures. I gave my notice this Monday past, and next Friday will be my last day. I'm really really excited.
I hope ultimately this allows me to scale back on working 7 days a week because it's been killer and besides missing practically my entire summer, I'm just pooped and have noticed that my mojo is zippo, nada, nilch to say the least. So anyway, nuff said.

Now, you have to take a few minutes to watch this (with sound - as that's the most important part) and just let it wash over you. I promise you it will make you laugh and feel good. Then, you'll never look at a rainbow the same way.

I hope everyone has a great weekend.

OK.. because I can't resist, here are some cuties for you....

now seriously, have a wonderful weekend and I hope you have time to create something!

Happy Scrapping,

Hayley

The evils of Spray Tan, and other random cuteness..

2010-07-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

A funny thing happened on the way to collecting my cute Friday animal pictures. I came across some other photos that made me actually laugh out loud. So that got me thinking. (I know..scary stuff there!)
I think on Fridays I will now include a few cute ones...and something that makes me feel a little less serious overall.

This week... first off...cuteness...

Ahhhhh.... This soldier is involved in rescuing kittens in Afghanistan...HOW AWESOME IS THAT??!!!

Just to cute for words really. Baby Red Pandas. Muuuuuuwah!

In case you don't know...which if you've never been to the old blog here before or missed it - I loves me some baby otters. Loves me, seriously.

Next up - for your bewilderment and amuzement, may I present - The Guido Collection.

Behold...

Clearly I'm missing something - the pursed lips must be like a signature photo requirement or something - and as you can see, it's both guidos and guidettes. Snooki would be proud!

ah..look, a guido before picutre..

Holy death ray stare! I bet even the camera that took this was afraid. Roid much?

Nice Fat Stack in your hand. What else ya doin with the mad cheddar? More Ed Hardy? Gah!

Where do I begin?

How do those girls keep a straight face?

This is a masterpiece. Seriously..Pink Suit Guy! Seriously!

And now you know why spray tan should be illegal in well, at least 1 state in the USA.

Enjoy your weekend - and come back and vist next week ya'll.

Peace

It's Friday...so it must be time for CUTENESS!

2010-07-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.. off to a rocky start on the blogging goal. It's been a killer week at work, and well - sometimes real life has to come before playtime. I know, it's despicable but an annoying fact.

Couple of things of note..
My niece Annamaija is hot footing it around Europe right now with her beloved, and is blogging about it. She's very funny and you can read her blog here if you want a chuckle and relive your glorious early 20's when life was as simple as saving up money in with your boyfriend to take off for a month or so and backpack around wherevs. Ummm.. that kinda skipped over me. Oh well... I see a boat on the horizon for me just as soon the hubster finishes school, gets employed, we decide where we are going to live and then take sailing lessons and then finally find us a dream sailboat in the neighbourhood of 30 odd feet. Now, that doesn't seem toooooooooo complicated.

Hooray, my 2010 Stampin Up Hostess Club will be coming together shortly - and I'm totally psyched about it.

and finally..If you haven't gone to see Eclipse yet... GO! I swear, it's the best of the three so far.

and now, without further adooooooooooooooooooooo... Cuteness Abound!

1. She still doesn't have Octomom beat...unless you're talking cuteness. This photo is actually of a woman in Tauranga New Zealand...that's the town I lived in for a spell back in the late 90's! Neat co-inkidink! Ok, did you look closely? Like in the bottom of the stroller?

2. Who doesn't love a brand new fresh to world baby Elephant. If not you, then read it here - you are WEIRD.

3. What? Is this penguin on vaca or something... doesn't quite look chilly willy enough for the little scooter.

4. I'm sorry, I'm still totally in love with this pygmy hippo. I want to give it a big kiss on it's little head and watch his little ears flutter.

So fudge'n CUTE!

5. Yoga Z'zzzzzzzz Ommmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, my name is Lotus Blossom...

6. Now come on...look at the little panda who sleps the momma's tum tum...

Don't forget to wear a hat or your sunscreen people! It's hot out there, so stay cool, like me.

Cheers,

Hayley

It's FINALLY here! Eclipse...

2010-06-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

So I have watched my countdown clock on the side tick of day after day...and finally...it's at ZERO! That's because June 30th is here...all us silly TWI-HARDS get to indulge in just a bit more of Bellward, or Bellcob..or whatever you want to call them. Shannon and I are hitting the 7:30 show at Scotia Centre..and I'm tickled blood red. I'll post my review later.

Well - the last 6 weeks or so have zipped by. They have been consumed with the likes of ..get up, go to work, come home, eat, go to bed, get up, go to work etc etc..No fun, no playtime, no craft time, no nothing at all worth mentioning.

But now that the year is half over, and I've been dismal with keeping up my blog, it's time for my half new year resolutions! Yippeee.. more goals to meet.

So here we go... 6 goals to take me through to December 31st. Ya ready?

1. Blog daily (ha ha ha ha...let's see how long that one keeps up.)
2.Create something weekly. (ok, that *seems* doable)
3.Complete the redesign of my craft room.(Paris theme, here I come)
4.Get my Stampin' Up! business back up and running - Hostess Club etc.
5.Exercise for 30 minutes at least every single day - no excuses (unless it's really good!)
6. Remember to take time to just "be" (that means sometimes saying no to others)

So..there we have it. I'm feeling re-energized and looking forward to getting my game on.

To those of you who stop by to say hello I say - thank you! Your comments and hellos are very much appreciated.

See you tomorrow,
Hayley

It's Tuesday..and I'm feeling Greedy

2010-05-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true - I'm feeling very greedy today. I make no apologies for it. I've got quite a few things mish mashing around in my brain - and so here we go with It's Tuesday and This is what I want..

Hayley Wants..

I would like a nice poster of this for my scrapbook studio, framed in a nice distressed wooden frame.

Because it's Spring.. I think these little boots would look adorable with a skirt... (just not on my gams)

Mike owes me a trip here.... not too mention about 10 other places to make up for the next 2 years without a vacation unless a.) I win the lotto or b.) My mom wins the lotto or c.) She decides we can go anyway. Otherwise it's camping ..and more camping.

So I might as well redo my balcony - and I'd love it to look like this..

But since even that's not really in the budget, I'll happily settle for more ~~Eric~~ Sookie..

Less than a month to go...(Shiver...)

So.. that's what you have. I'm soon going to start featuring also a post each week that highlights some amazing cards and layouts that I've come across in my blog reading.

So what is it that you all want today?

Cheers,
hayley

A day late but still Cute..

2010-05-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

Friday was definitely one of those days. You know the kind where you wake up and every thing seems ok...and then it just starts to unravel. Yup, it' was that kind of day. So I didn't even get a chance to post my cuteness cure. These are some random pics I've found over the web that continue to make me go "Oh that is cute!" and I hope that you will too.

So the sun is shining here in Vancouver and I'm aching to go outside and just be in the fresh air. I'm thinking later today Mike and I will head up to Minnekhada for a hike. Then it's bbq time. Bbq chicken burgers, spinich salad and oven fries. I'm trying REALLY hard to keep it healthy. You know its when you try not to do something that you fully understand how ingrained certain behaviours can be. Wasn't my word of the year supposed to be focus...

Anyway you all have a wonderful weekend. If you're lucky to have some sunshine where you are then make sure you get out and get some Vitamin D.

Happy thoughts,
Hayley

Oh My Word!

2010-05-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm sorry I'm late. Yesterday was a crazy day of work work work, then run around, then my SU meeting, and then Lost..and well I just didn't have a moment to post my What Hayley Wants. But have no fear... I've discovered something really fun and funky.

it's called "Polyvore" No idea what the fudge that means... but it's really a cool site. http://www.polyvore.com/ Basically it's this really cool site where you can put together these pages of stuff you want! For example a member put this together..

Which I happend to find because I saw this..

which I would want - but not really because trust me...this baby would not hang on me the way it hangs here.. It's just so darn pretty. Next up on the list...

I am in love with this bed that I found on Craigslist for only $450! I soooooo wish I could get it, but no can do. *insert crying emoticon here*
I'm planning on doing some container gardening on the old balcony...so of course I want...

And I'm also in the process of redoing my scrapbooking room. Right now seriously I'd win a prize for the messiest room out there..but I've only got a few weeks until I get my hands on some furniture from dearest mom who is finally parting ways with some seriously awesome shabby chic furniture. So I thought it would be simply awesome if I could crown off my room with this baby...

So that's what I'm thinking about today... I can tell you what I don't want. Check out these nightmares for your tootsies.. (warning, this picture may be burned in to your mind forever!)

YUCK!! to infinity and beyond!

Alrighty people, have a great day, and do something fabulous!

Hayley

Ding Dong...Cuteness Delivery...

2010-05-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has had a good week - it's been a bit of a up and down week for myself. Good days and not as good days. Hooray! It's the weekend. That means I get to work at the shop, hang out with friends and cook my mum a nice dinner on Sunday for Mother's Day. I'm going to try a Pioneer Woman recipe. I'm making short ribs. Her website really is awesome.

What will you be doing for your mummy?

So in my search for cuteness, sometimes it's hard to find really good ones. This week is on that bubble, but I did find one that I would especially like to dedicate to my friend Diane...

The rest just made me either giggle or think the required.. "aawwwwwwww"

I hope you will do the same.

I'm not why this is cute to me, but it just is.

You gotta love friends who can look past their differences and just be friends anyway!

Again, the big and small thing just is too cute!

OK seriously - hot guy, who studies animals, and is so lovely that they fall asleep in his lap... HELLO...this rates on my cuteness Friday for sure!

Anyway, go forth and create people. Have a wonderful weekend.

Peace!

Hayley

Faster than a Man in Blue Tights!

2010-05-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

A very exciting day all around! Most importantly... It's BC Scrapbooking CROP FOR KIDS event registration day!
BC Crop for Kids event tix went on sale tonight at 7pm.
At 7:16pm... all SOLD OUT!
So if you're not on the wait list - you better git on it now! Git..Git I say!!
It's going to be a great event!

And on another VERY important note...BREAKING DAWN will open on November 18th... Blessed. Just plain Blessed.

It's Tuesday..and this is what I want!

2010-05-04T09:19:00.000-07:00

As you know, I'm taking this weekly opportunity to indulge myself in putting it out there in the universe that there are things I want. Granted, I'm greedy by nature - so this is only a fraction, and what is on my mind at present. So here goes..

Please is it so much to ask for a good night's sleep?

On to my next destination, I'm going to need one of these pretty cool Starbucks Jet Packs! (oh alright, I know it's not really a jet pack, but seriously, wouldn't that be cool!)

So next up.. because I always have a crappy night sleep. How about a little bliss?

Of course, it would be nice if then I could just hop aboard the old little sailboat and have a drift around. (Seriously, one day I WILL HAVE MY BOAT!)

and last but not least, because I really am a practical gal, I saw these little beauts on etsy.com yesterday.

Me Likey!!!

Alright my lovely blog buddies... have a wonderful day, do something creative and have some fun. If all else fails, get an early night and try again tomorrow. I know that's what I'm going to do...after watching...

only a few more hours, then it's over forever.....waaaaahhhhhh.......

xoxo
Hayley

Sneak Peek..

2010-05-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

ok, not so much a sneak peek..

So as you know I started working part time at The Pick of the Patch Scrapbooking (Gotta pay the old property taxes right...am I right!?!) Anyway, I have the opportunity to design and teach classes there as well. So I absolutely love the Prima line, and couldn't resist using as much Prima as possible for my upcoming class. I'm thrilled with how this canvas, and I think the class is going to ROCK! Classes will be on May 27th from 6-9pm and June 6th from 1-4pm. Next up I'm working on a version that will be masculine canvas coming soon. (If you're interested in just a class kit - let me know too)
Just sayin'.

Next post shortly....ooooh yeah, it's Tuesday, which means....

WHAT HAYLEY WANTS.

Cheers,
Hayley

The Definition of Awwwwww....

2010-04-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the week my friend Tammy cheered me up by sending me the following photos. You see, I had been reading my darling niece Annamaija's blog, which I really enjoy - anyway, like myself Annamaija is avid anti fur. She's a vegan (by the way, if you're in Vancouver - Capers on Robson is having a Vegan Bake Sale Saturday), and I'm well a vegetarian at heart. I digress... I'm very very very opposed to the Seal Hunt here in Canada, and so is she. The thing is I won't post on my blog graphic pictures because well, I want people to come back and keep me company here. This is a scrapbooking, art, fun, cute blog - not a political (although I do express my opinion and welcome, always welcome others to pipe in or feedback) so I won't post pictures like Annamaija does. Let's just say they were so upsetting that even my normal mantra of "Puppies dressed as Cats, Puppies dressed as Cats" barely made a dent in my mood. Then Tammy out of the blue sent me the email about the lovely farmer in Germany who rescued an orphaned piglet and gave him to his beloved family dog to see if she would care for it - and of course, the dog fell in love with the piglet and is raising it. It did the trick, and gave me something wonderful to focus on. It didn't wipe away the sadness, about the seals, but it did help me keep it in balance for the day.

So I hope you enjoy the following photos, if you haven't already seen them on the web!

Well, it's a great weekend for scrapbookers! It's National Scrapbooking Day tomorrow May 1st! What will you be doing? I'll be hanging out (aka working) at Pick of the Patch as we have our 12hr Crop! Should be a lot of fun.
Sunday one of my BFF's Shannon is coming over for dinner, and I can't wait. I'm making yummy chicken curry!

Have a great weekend everyone and don't forget to get your create on!

Peace!

Tuesday my heart belongs to..

2010-04-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Ok Callista..this is your fault. You stirred up these long buried desires. You see, with *Riley being in school (um actually writing a final exam as I type) I have had to change the old budget seriously..actually on an EPIC level. So shopping has gone down to beyond emergency only. Basically, only when my mom looks at me with that way moms do. You know that look, the one that says - oh dear, the trouble. Then we go shopping. Anyway..to keep me motivated, I'm going to start a new weekly feature here to entertain myself. Tuesday will now be all about what I would love to have if I could just go do a quick shop or whatever it would be to have it right then and there. Sky's the limit.

Today, I'm starting small though - this is where Callista comes in. She was at the Dr.M's store this weekend apparently and saw some boots she loved. So that made me go over to their site and have a peek. I'd had my heart already wrapped around some hot pink babies - but I also saw these. so...

HAYLEY WANTS...

ya ya.. I know what you're thinking... WHAAAAAAAAAA? But they make my heart sing.

Have a great day ya'll.

(so Mom...if you're out there..... heh heh..)

Can someone please nominate me...

2010-04-25T16:17:00.000-07:00

for "What Not To Wear" ???

I need a make over.. STAT!

Ready..Set.. Awwwwwww...

2010-04-23T09:16:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to share the Friday cuties...oh and ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARRIE!!!!

this is I swear...the miniest of mini horses!!

I knew the Canadian Army was having a tiny bit of trouble recruiting...but really, is this the best we can do?

and finally.. because who does not love peek-a-boo kittens??

Busy weekend ahead.. Tonight I'm having a Starbucks visit with my gf Cassie. Haven't seen her for a couple of months, so it should be nice catching up. Tomorrow - Scrapaholics crop @ the Patch. I'm double duty'en it. I'm also working. Then afterthat, it's off to Mary's for her birthday party...and then, yes, there is more... I will be working on Sunday at the patch.

I'm really excited - I'm starting up my hostess club for Stamping up this coming May, as well I'm going to try something new and do a class club as well. I'm going to spend some time this weekend working on the first class project. I can not wait!!!!

You know what they say - no rest for the wicked.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hayley

I'm pretty sure it's Friday...

2010-04-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

Where did the week go?..For that matter, where did the last few weeks go. I've done lot's of projects, but haven't taken a picture of a thing!!
But that's not what Friday is about ya'll now is it? Let's get the cute on people!
Here is a mixmash of adorableness..

I'm working all weekend at the shop, so I'll have hopefully a bit of time for some creating! Have a wonderful weekend my lovlies!

H to the G.

Tofino, Tofino... Why can't I stay forever in Tofino.

2010-04-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

well..I s'pose the last time I checked they do not have large insurance firms in town. Oh well..
If you're keen, here is a slideshow [above - because for some stuuuupid reason, likely because I'm no longer capable of the most basic of blogger functions, I couldn't link my slideshow in my post] of some of my Tofino vacation that I took with my Mom last week. Thanks Mom, it was more wonderful a treat than you can imagine. Or, I s'pose you can, since I keep telling you. So, when are we going back?

What the Fudge? It's April Already?

2010-04-06T10:33:00.000-07:00

How the heck did that happen? One minute I'm planning on making some valentines cards and then all of a sudden I've missed Easter? I believe it's called a waking coma.

Yes, that's it, a Waking Coma. You must have heard of it. The kind when your life consists of the following;

1. Get up.
2. Go to Work.
3. Come home, vegetate in front of boob tube.
4. Go to bed.
5. Repeat endlessly.

Yup, that's the vicious cycle I've been trapped in of late.
However... my Mom took pity on me recently, and took me on a little "It's time you remembered what fresh air consists of" mini vaca. So we headed to Tofino BC for a beautiful 4 days of absolute natural gorgeousnesyness. Thank you MILLIONS Mummy!

I came back feeling rejuvinated, refreshed and resolute to make sure I end up with more holiday time. With or without Mike! I mean it's not my fault that he wants to go to school and doesn't have time for fun. Geesh!

Let's see what else have I been up too.. I've gone and begged Izzy for a job at Pick of the Patch. Hey - a girls gotta pay her property taxes ya'll! I'm actually having a total blast working there on the weekends. Who knew! Now the trick is to keep the spending down!

Anyway, that's pretty much been it for me. just the waking coma routine for the past couple of months. I'm still in a big of a fog - but there are some patches of blue sky above that peek through every now and again.

Thanks for stopping by and saying hello.
Hayley

I'm back...

2010-03-12T08:32:00.000-08:00

I've managed to finally get over this wicked cold I've had..deets not required as they would frankly be TMI. Anyway, suffice to say that I'm feeling much better and ready to get life back to normal. So what better way to start then my Cutie for Friday... are you ready???

(yes..she is tickling the baby!)

Now you might be thinking "huh?" what is so cute about this - well.... This is baby Hasani and his surrogate mother Bawang in the top two photos and then with his auntie Nneka in the last photo They are from the San Francisco Zoo. Now, I don't know what could be more cute than an orphaned baby gorilla bonding with other women gorillas. This just warmed my heart completely.

Ok, you can say Awwwww..., it's ok, go ahead. I'll wait.

Have a great weekend, and don't forget to find some time to do something creative!

Thank Freaking Friday

2010-02-26T10:51:00.000-08:00

and without further adoooooooo...

Enjoy the weekend World.

Nice Cup you got there..

2010-02-23T23:29:00.000-08:00

So I was reduced to a whimpering cry baby who was feeling very sorry for herself. It's true. I am the fragile petal. I seemed to have picked up a wicked sore throat on Sunday night. However it was still a really good weekend overall. Friday night Mike Riley and I hit the town Olympic style. That's code for walked my freaking feet off. I have never... I mean NEVER seen Vancouver so crowded and celebratory. It was simply awesome. We tried to get in to a few of the houses, but I can't handle 4 hour line ups. So we headed over to LiveCity Vancouver, the free site where the Canada House is. We did have to line up for about 30 minutes to get in to LiveCity, and then forever a little over an hour to get inside Canada House. Little did I know the line up was actually to get your photo with the Stanley Cup. Too cool. Maybe if I had taken 2 minutes to read the description of what it was all about I would have known. Anyway, it was worth it.

ps. Does anyone know where the skinny tool is for photoshop?

Overall, the evening was lots of fun...until we went to take the train home. Oh God. Crowded doesn't even come close to defining how full it was. I'm thinking Mumbai style. It would not have surprised me to see throngs of people hanging on to the outside. No not really. But for shizzle it was busy!

Saturday I worked my second shift at Pick of the Patch. This part time gig is going to really help. It was lots of fun. Not stressful at all. Saturday night, Mike Riley and I just hung out and we watched Gamer, which Gerard Butler. Need I say more.

Sunday it was Scrapaholics day, and time for our monthly crop. It was a nice crop, not too crowded. I think about 20 people showed up. I got three layouts done and started my calendar. Ha! The rate I'm going it will have to be a April to April calendar! No surprise there. So here are the layouts.

This 1st one is for Let's Capture Our Memories - Sketch Challenge #5 Sneezy

This one was another one - it's Sketch Challenge #4 Bashful

And this one was just because!

Cheers!
Hayley

F - F- F- Friday Cutie

2010-02-19T09:03:00.000-08:00

Ok ok, I know this isn't super soft and squishy cute...but come on people..this is pretty cute.

Rules for the weekend..

1. Get outside for fresh air (yes, letting the dogs outside to pee counts..)
2. Watch some Olympic Awesomeness (For whatever country that awesomeness comes from)
3. Have a Nacho for me.(Just because I said so)
4. Stay in your PJ's as long as possible (Yes, you can go outside to let the dogs out in your PJ's)
5. Have a little downtime (Because I won't be.)

Have a great weekend everyone.

But..but.. but..you just got here!!!???

2010-02-17T15:48:00.000-08:00

It's been how many years that we've been waiting for the Oly's to come to Vancoolver, and now that they are here I'm freaking out that it's all going by so fast! ACK!
You know this working full time gig is starting to get on my nerves...especially right now when the hubster has a reading break and well...I'm not seeing much reading going on.. He really should call himself Riley. In fact..that's it. I do declare I have officially changed his name.

My beloved shall now and always be referred to as Riley. Forever more, "so it shall be written, so it shall be done!"
(hey..an RAK to the first person to tell me who I just "quoted")

So aside from the horrendous tragedy which occurred last Friday, the games have been going along fabulously. Perhaps some of the sensationalist international press might disagree.. (Poohy on them) I think everyone here in Van is feeling an amazing swell of patriotism - and actually displaying that on person, and in structure. Not a very Canadian trait. We normally just keep our displays toned down a titch. It's hard to miss the Olympic spirit every where you go. Red mittens everywhere, Canada Logos everywhere and really it's just a sea of red.

I can't even pick a favourite event, rather I'll just say that my top faves to watch have been Luge, Snowboard, Alpine, Hockey and even some figure skating - although that stresses me out completely because I feel so bad when they fall. Love the Russians comeback. He's wicked!

So, no scrapping for the past week while I've had my face about 3.7 inches from the tv and fingers on the remote in perma grip.

Go Canada Go, we are so proud. And Yeah for everyone else too - because it's only good when there is good competition.

By the way... Curling Rocks.....get it? hee hee.. I never said I made good jokes!

h to the g.

Fresh Friday - got 2 minutes?

2010-02-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

Well peeps - it's finally here. The big O! No...not that kind! Dirty girls!
The Olympics open today. Pretty fantastic actually. It's really awesome to see Vancouver embrace the excitement. My friend Mary and I went out at lunch time yesterday to take a few pictures around town, and that was a blast.

But as you know, it's Friday - and that means cuteness abound! So without further ado, I have for your entertainment this cute little video which I proclaim adorable, amazing animation and just really worth the 1.32 minutes it takes to watch - plus it's a catchy little tune.

But, if you need instant gratification like we all do now and then - then this one is for you.
I just loved the intensity! I can soooooo relate!! mmmmm...cupcakes good......must have...

Have a wonderful Friday!
Hayley

Not so Grumpy after all

2010-02-10T20:24:00.000-08:00

Hah! Who am I kidding! But enough about me. If you quickly glance to your right people, you'll see a little blinkie which is a link to a fun sketch blog from Let's Capture These Sketches. They are having a Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs theme challenge.

As you may have discerned, I'm all about the challenge blogs this year. If it's ok with you, I'm changing my word of the year from Focus to Challenge. Ahhh I digress..again...

I'm playing along with this month's challenges, and here is my take on sketch #2 - Grumpy. Here is the sketch,

and here is my layout.

Again, sorry for the crap light. I hate that I'm never able to take pictures during daylight hours!! GRRRR.

This is my beautiful (and very smart) niece Sasha. She is about to leave next week for 3 years to attend an Architecture program at the University in Western Australia! Very very cool. I'm so proud of her.

Hey...it's almost the weekend! Sweet!

Roger that, Glauser Out!

I'm On A Role...

2010-02-08T22:18:00.000-08:00

So as you may have noticed, I seem to have my mojo back. Post'n Create'n etc etc. Really, I have to thank my hubby for doing all the studying that he has been doing. You see, he didn't want to use the spare bedroom as a den, he would rather spend the next 2.5 years (oh gawd, is it really going to take that long for him to be finished school???) using the dining room/living as his study area. I guess it has better chi for him. Whatever works for you sweetie.. because that means I still get the spare room as my "Studio" (She says with her nose in the air pretending that she is just that much cooler..) You see, pretty much after dinner, I'm banished to "my room" It cracks me up. I'll tell you though, I am currently not fulfilling my North American quota of tv viewing hours.

I'm going to have to figure out how to hook up cable through my computer!

Anyway... here is my completed layout for Sketch Thursdays current sketch challenge #2.4 You likey? Me likey! That little Miss Stella sure is one cutie.

Thanks for popping by, and giving me your photo tips. They were very much appreciated! (Shhh...please don't mind the shadow of me taking the picture.. LOL"

by the way, has anyone told you today that you Rock the Party? Well consider it done - because you do, yes you! You Rock the Party

Peace to the Planet.

PS. Gerard Butler is a BABE.

here comes another Monday..

2010-02-07T23:05:00.000-08:00

Why 'o why must Monday's come so quickly?? I mean what the fudge? I fully believe that we would all be much happier and relaxed in the world if we reversed the work week (same pay of course!) 5 day weekends, and 2 day work weeks! Sound good?

I've had a pretty relaxing weekend. Could have been better. Got a few challenge layouts done, but I didn't have the opportunity to take pictures. Will try later Monday to do so.

I'm getting used to Mike studying so much, leaves a lot more time for me to be upstairs in my room scrapp'n to my hearts content.

Here is a card I made recently (last weekend).

Something I've been meaning to put out there to all my blogging buddies - how do you take the fabulous pictures that you do of your projects? Advice??

Hope your Monday is not full of blahs.
Ciao!

It's Friday - Prepare for Cuteness

2010-02-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

I thought this little muffin was pretty full of cuteness.

Enjoy!

Have yourself a fabulous Friday! Celebrate..it's the weekend!!

Hayley

Ahhhh Eye Candy...how sweet it is..

2010-02-03T09:32:00.000-08:00

you know I loves me some Wentworth...and look, he is even bringing me a coffee. Such a sweetheart. Awww Shucks...

hey, a girl can dream... ya ya, I know I'm married. But I also have this crazy thing for Ryan Seacrest right now too. strange....
Anywhoooo...thanks Shannon for the pick me up, and perez for only drawing hearts and not other icky things. I hate icky things.
And for the record.. I don't care about his personal choices in life, who he loves, lusts etc - non of my concern, because in his heart he really is all about the H to the G (umm..that's me)

By the way, a funny thing happened on the way in to work. I noticed Joshua Jackson..aka Pacey, aka the dude on Fringe.. walking towards me.

(did I think to pull out my pocket camera and go all papparazzi on him, no - I forgot) but what I did have the opportunity to say was this... (those that know me IRL will recognize my true nerdiness..)
"Hey... I love you dude! Ummm..not in a creepy way of course!! Seriously, you rock. Loved you in One week, and your TV stuff." He just smiled, looked all sweet and bashful and said "thanks", and I kept walking. Seriously adorable, seriously.

So far it's been a pretty great day. Let's hope it stays that way.

Peace out Peeps. (see, I really am a nerd)

Hayley.

Spoils of the weekend..part one.

2010-02-02T23:26:00.000-08:00

As promised, it's time for show and tell. Had to post late because...well duh... LOST was FINALLY on tonight, and really nothing else mattered!
Here is a peek at one of the layouts that I did. More to come.

Just a wee little bit of pride...

2010-01-30T23:35:00.000-08:00

Since I seem to have lots of international visitors (which is wicked awesome, so thank you) I thought I'd share the new Olympics promo with you all. It's just stunning - in my opinion. I'm really looking forward to being in town during this amazing event. Lots of neat free things to attend. Yay! Something new to scrapbook!
here you go...

ps... I've been participating all weekend on the WeScrap online challenge - I'll have lots of new layouts and cards to share over the next little bit.

Peace out gnomies!

Friday Dose of Total Cuteness

2010-01-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

that's right, I'm re-introducing my Friday dose of absolute cuteness!

Happy Friday!

btw... did you know there is an Online Crop going on this weekend at WeScrap?

I'll be playing along - come have a peek, they are always lots of fun - great challenges!

I'm going to miss you CoCo..

2010-01-23T22:58:00.000-08:00

I've always thought Conan was a riot, but here I think was my favourite moment from the Tonight show. NBC...too bad so sad, you made the wrong choice...

(and please don't give me a cease and desist) We'll miss you Coco.

Just a snapshot..or three

2010-01-21T22:04:00.000-08:00

of my vietnam mini album that I made from taking one of Sonja's classes last year. I totally forgot that I had never posted this. It has about 10 pages, and these really cool slide out pages as well. Just wanted to have a quick share. This weekend I'm going to spend some time with my sister Cherie. (shhh... we are starting a stamp company, but don't tell anyone) and I'm going to relax at home, kick back and work on some challenge layouts.

Any way, just wanted to wave to the world and share a bit of my album.

Hope you all have a wonderful Friday and a relaxing weekend!

Cheers,
Hayley

Project 365.. I mean 354..I mean 52..never mind.

2010-01-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

So, I had this fabulous...and I mean FABULOUS idea of joining my friend ScrappeeDiane with her Project 365. Well, as you can see, even though I'm this gadget girl on the go, I'm still not up and running with the project. So. Hmmm.. then I thought I'd be all clever and do Project 52! Cool Huh?!, well, I'm even late starting that - and I think Project 26 just seems a little in the lame department. What's a girl to do?
Well.. I suppose the best thing to do would be to just suck it up, ala buttercup and get creating!
I have all these fantastic challenge blogs listed - if you haven't checked them out you really should. There are some really talented ladies out there (and some dudes too) I could just keep on listing great challenges, but I'd rather you checked them out for yourself.

I figured out what my word of the year is. I asked the hubby and he just mumbled something suspciously sounding like narrsasistic..but that's not for sure. What can I say, he thinks my world of blogging is silly. Anyway, I'm pretty sure I'm going to go with FOCUS. It seems completely relevant for my harried life. So there you have it.

Now.. if you're laughing, especially out loud at the moment, about the subtle irony, ok, I'll excuse you. As you may know I'm big on leaf turning, so this word is all part of that.

Did you notice that I found an Eclipse clock?
Right, I was talking about my word for the year... FOCUS.

Now that I have this precious little big word, I get to create a few things based on it. I'll be sure to post pictures asap.

However tonight, it's still off to home, jiggity jig, to some chicken noodle soup. I'm still "enjoying" read extreme sarcasm, my lovely cold. Sinus and chest cold deluxe 2010 version.

Speaking of 2010.. My fabulous boss (no sacrasm, REALLY) has given me a ticket to an Olympic event. I get to go to a medal ceremony. Pretty cool!!! Anyone else out there getting to go to any of the events.
Ok, my stop is coming up soon. Time to power down this badboy netbook I'm rockin!

Peace and love people, that's what it's all about.
Hayley

on the go..

2010-01-06T18:35:00.000-08:00

I didn't think that I would ever be a gadet queen (yes, I can hear the snorts of laughter from a distance even) however, peanut gallery aside, here I am on the commuter train able to finally do a blog post. I think that's pretty damn cool - never mind tweetable or f'book'n cool. Thanks to Mom, I know have a top of the line wifi key. Cuz I'm people on the go.
Actually, more likely I'm people who work much longer hours than before, with a much busier job, so I'm not able to spend time devoting to the www during lunch and *ahem* breaks..
So, since I have about an hour commute every day, I figured I can only read, watch or listen to the Twilight Saga *sigh* only so much before my ipod and mini DVD player would melt. (what was I saying about not being a gadet queen??) Anyway, I figured that was serious realestate for blog hopping, surfing and writing. So, here we are. I'm officially a woman on the move.

Next on the agenda, I've got to figure out what challenges I want to participate in and book some quality scrapping time. I figured out that with everything that I had going on last year I only made about 36 odd pages. That's incredible. Incredible in a bad way...considering I shopped for about 360 pages! Ouch. Lets just say that I'm working on the resolution of using what I have before buying more.

Speaking of challenges, which ones are you participating in? There are so many great sites out there it's hard to choose. I don't want to over commit and then set myself up to be disappointed because I didn't complete everything that I intended.

Have you chosen your "word for the year"? I'm still pondering. I'm thinking ...challenge, or percerverence, or calm...maybe calm. There seem to be quite a few challenges around that subject.

Any tips on choosing your word?

Anyone know how many sleeps until Eclipse opens? I have to find a new countdown clock. I just can't bear to remove the new moon one yet.

I've seen a bunch of really good movies through the holidays. Some brand new, and a few others that had already been released, and I'm just catching them on dvd or movie central. I REALLY enjoyed Avatar, Inglorious Bastards, The Hangover, The Proposal and The International.

I'm in the process of compliling my top 10 movie list and song list. I'll post that in the next couple of days.

ok, I'm off to surf now...man I look cool!
peace.
hmmm...my spell check seems to have vanished. Strange, and dangerous!

aaaahhhh...

2010-01-03T01:26:00.000-08:00

I miss you all. I can't wait to do my "real" post in about...um... let's just say later today, shall we??

It's nice to be back in the saddle again.

That reminds me of a time horseback riding at Timberline... I guess you had to be there...

Happy January 3rd!

Can't breathe....

2009-11-20T09:09:00.001-08:00

IT's here...IT'S FINALLLLLLY HERE!!!

Sorry, Can't post - off to spend the day with Edward, oh yeah, and my friend Shannon too 'spose!
See u after Timberline Peeps!

There's being INFATUATED..and then there is...

2009-11-18T20:19:00.001-08:00

just plain dumb. I mean really WTH??? REALLY??? You all know I love Edward as much as the next super crazed obsessed infatuated seriously Twi-hard...but really? Really? Is this necessary??

Yes you are looking at a tattoo. These are from a Ugliesttattoos .com which is great for a few laughs. I nearly fell off my chair when I saw the tat above.

Then I came across was this one...

Not quite as bad...but still. They definitely win on the bigger fan thingy.

Two more sleeps....

Actually for 2 different great events. My friend Diane is hosting a fabulous scrapbooking retreat this coming weekend called Timberline. About 35 of us will be at this really nice (albeit rustic) ranch scrapping the weekend away. I plan on working on my wedding album..finally. I know, only 7 years and 11 months late.. Hey, I was waiting for the right paper!

Can't wait for my strawberry waffles over the weekend.

Hope you're having a wonderful evening, and staying dry from all this rain we are having.

Glauser, out!

Embellish Magazine Challenge "Owls Color Challenge"

2009-11-11T20:50:00.000-08:00

I loved this challenge from Embellish Magazine. Seriously, is the inspiration photo not scrumptious! I knew I couldn't pass this one by.

So here you go, my take on the challenge:

Thanks so much for looking!

Ingredients:

From Stampin' Up:

Chocolate Chip Cardstock/Ink

Certainly Celery Cardstock/Ink

Cameo Coral Cardstock/Ink

Copic Markers:

G24 Willow

E47 Dark Brown

R22 Light Prawn

Y38 Honey

YR14 Caramel

Glitter Pens:

Sakura Gelly Roll - Clear Star

Nestabilities:

Large Scallop Circles

Large Circles

Stamps:

Pink Paislee

Ribbon:

Martha Stewart

Misc.

Bling:

Prima E

I Am Grateful

2009-11-11T10:52:00.000-08:00

I remember in grade 5 I had the honour of standing in front of my whole elementary school and reciting this beautiful poem for our remembrance day memorial. Please take a moment today to be grateful for all the sacrifices, by not only the men and women who serve their country, but also the families and friends that sacrifice too. I have much gratitude, thank you.

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
John McCrae

Copic Colour Challenge #38

2009-11-09T22:00:00.000-08:00

It's been way too long since I've done one of these babies! This week's colours are..

I actually found this colour combo rather challenging. Guess I'm not so fond of the brighter colours as much as I thought...hmmm..maybe I need some new stamps to colour in!

Anyway, here is my go at it. I didn't have R85 - Shocking! I know, right!? So I substituted RV04 Shock Pink instead. I used Stampin' Up! Basic Black Card Stock, Ink Tempting Turquoise Card Stock and Melon Mambo Ribbon. Short and Sweet Sayings Stamp, and the window punch. There is also Versafine Ink, Clear Embossing Powder,a lovely Bella stamp, Nestabilities Oval (largest) and Scalloped Oval (largest) and I threw in some faux stitching with my white Uniball, and some random white brads...PHEW, that was a fingerful of typing!

Thanks for taking a peek!

Die Cut Diva's Blog Hop - Taaa Daaa...

2009-11-09T20:18:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I completed a whole blog hop! So when I found this one over at Die Cut Diva's, I thought I'd give it a go. I'm glad I did. It was lots of fun, and I think the ladies did a great job. I also really liked that when you finished the hop, in order to complete it you have to post a yummy recipe of your own. Cool! So here goes...

Easiest EVAH!

No bake Cherry Cheesecake

· 1 graham cracker pie crust

· 2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese

· 1 (8 oz.) Cool Whip

· 1 tsp. vanilla,

· 1 tsp. lemon juice

· 1 can cherry pie filling

Cream together at room temperature cream cheese, Cool Whip and vanilla. Pour into pie crust. cover with cherry pie filling. Chill and serve

Enjoy Peeps!

SP Color Challenge #22

2009-11-08T20:06:00.000-08:00

Scrapmaster's Paradise Color Challenge #22.

I'm loving this week's color combo. Total earthiness.

For this card, I've used all four colors...Chocolate Chip, Creamy Caramel, Dusty Durango and Sage Shadow. I've used Very Vanilla as the background for the stamping. Stamp sets used are "Autumn Splendor", "En Francais" and an old retired version of "Warm Words" (I think..)

I used Versamark and the colored inks along with clear embossing powder, and Versamark with gold embossing powder for the leaves.

Thanks for looking!

Aww Shucks..

2009-11-07T11:54:00.000-08:00

Lookie what I got from my gal Carrie! Such a sweetie. If you haven't checked out her blog you should - she's a riot, and a very talented scrapbooker!

This award is bestowed onto blogs that are exceedingly charming. These bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes cut, even more friendships are propagated.

Now I know that Carrie has bestowed this lovely award on her local peeps, which are also my local peeps, so I'm going to choose some friends who's blogs I read - I don't know if they ever come here, but I'm throwing it out there regardless. I love reading your blogs. Your creativity inspires me!

Please give more attention to these writers.

Deliver this award to six bloggers, who must choose six more and include this cleverly written text in the body of their award.

Thanks for accepting this blog award if you do! You rock.

PS. you ALL rock. I mean that. There are so many witty, entertaining, creative and just plain AWESOME blogs out there. Seriously revolutionary.

Ummm....

2009-11-06T22:31:00.001-08:00

I don't even know what to say...

I promise, a creative post next. Promise.

I know right?

2009-10-31T15:44:00.000-07:00

I know how many sleeps....too fricking many, that's how many.

PS. the picture is copywrite to summit entertainment..

Feeling Challenged?

2009-10-28T15:56:00.001-07:00

Frankly, I'm not - and that's a problem. I'm still struggling with the missing joy de something. So tell me where you are finding your creative mojo from these days? Are you participating in any online communities or challenge sites? Which ones?

I've been doing a little surfing lately and have found that quite a few challenge sites, blogs and forums seem to be heading south - and I don't mean Texas ya'll! It's sad, the industry is has changed quite a bit over the past year now. Many LSS are closing, manufacturer lines closing shop too.

This has to be the best time to pull up our socks, put the old big girl panties on, and get the groove on for scrapbooking again.

You know.... (sideways glance...leaning in a little closer...) I think another BIG problem these days, are all the competitions for design teams and magazine calls. I have heard a gajillion..and I mean GAJILLION peeps talking about wanting to get on this team and that team..all seeking fame and free product. So much so that they have become scrapping machines, and not just for the fun and creativity of why it likely drew them to the hobby to begin with. Wait a minute...something is triggering some kind of flashback...wait, nope, it's gone again.

Don't get me wrong (much) there is nothing wrong with being active on a team. I ask you though, are you doing it for the right reason?

Why do you want to be published? If you get on a team, is it because you honestly want to share and inspire - or do you want to just get the swag. If you do, and your honest with yourself, than kudos.....(let me repeat Grey's Anatomy style for emphasis..) Seriously, kudos if you know what you want and why.

My muddy point is this...where has all the fun gone? Why is it all about deadlines and call dates and new releases this, and did you hear about so and so...(to which yes I have been guilty...) but still...I've only got one toe in that pot these days.

So I say leaf turn (my verison of turn over a new leaf...I like to get right to the point)..leaf turn and get back to where it all began..get back.. (wait, I'm quoting the beatles and now I'm going to get sued...)

Apparently today is Whinging Wednesday...or did someone forget to forwarn you?

But back to my original question - so where are you hanging out these days???

Glauser - OUT!

Has it really been THAT long?

2009-10-27T10:18:00.001-07:00

As you know I've been "extremely delinquent" with my blog as of long late...however, ya'll can relax now. I'm back.

My "Blogcation" is over and it's back to work.
I didn't realise that it had actually been as long as it had, and then when I did I have to say I was a little stumped as to what to say. That's right, it's true, I had a lack of words to share..stagefright, if you will.

I would even say that my lack of presense was a teensy bit because I was just having a delayed reaction to some stress through the spring and beginning of summer. My joy to create was sucked out completely. I've been working really hard to regain it. Thanks to my wonderful friends, Carrie, Diane, Jo, Izzy, Kathy and my other Scrapaholic Friends I believe the fog has lifted from the creative deadzone.

I spent the weekend at the BC Scrapbooking Crop for Kids, and it was FANTASTIC. I can't wait to get copies of everyone elses pictures (because I was too lazy to take my own) and make a mini album...Yes Carrie, a mini album...

I was going to try and bring sexyback, JT style..(My version would look more like double page layouts) but nope, I just don't think so. I will give it another go, but I might climb back in my comfy box of single page, single photo layouts.

Anyway, we all had a blast at the weekend away. I saw Mary this morning and she let me know that it looks like they raised even more money for BC Children's Hospital than last year!!! Congratulations.

So now it's time for me to get back to reading everyone's blog - catching up on what's going on etc.

Thanks you everyone who still reads all the utter nonsense that I have to say.

Peace out, Glauser style.

Where has Summer gone?

2009-08-30T19:21:00.000-07:00

It's that time again... the end of Summer vaca. Waaaaaah! I don't want to go back to work tomorrow - but then again who does! And if you do, then either you have your dream job..(to which I'm sickeningly disgusted) or more likely, you're just plain yankin' my chain.

So enough whinging about work, on to more exciting things.

Well my vacation was like one very long weekend. I had a zillion things to do, but still found a little time to relax and have some downtime. I managed to crop, crop some more, see Rick Springfield live, crop and just plain hang out. Ummmm... YES.. I did just say I saw Rick Springfield. I even have a crappy video taken while at the PNE with him singing Jessie's Girl!
So now that's one thing off my bucket list... Can you believe he is 60! I nearly had a cow when he said so. In fact I didn't believe him, and had to google it. Sure enough, born in 1949. Holy Crap.

I've worked on a few projects this week past, but haven't had a lot of time to take photos of them. So I'll update shortly. I have lots of blog reading and commenting to do - I'll be busy catching up for a day or two that's for sure.

The BC Scrapbooking Crop for Kids Summer FUNdraising Crop was huge success. What a lot of fun. I completed my very first Make & Take session. I thought it went very well. Everyone who participated seemed to have a good time, and were pleased with the end result. <<>>
Kathy and I have a truckload to get done before the actual big Crop for the Kids which will be in October. We'll be combining efforts towards the goodie bag! Should be a lot of fun.
So as mentioned I ran my first make and take... thought ya'll like to take a peek.

I am happy to be getting back to a regular routine though.. That's one good thing about fall. It's time to start planning Christmas Cards and Gift Tags. I also want to get back to doing a card a day! I don't seem to really have trouble doing the card... Just getting the darn photo done!

Ok, now I'm off to check out all the blogs I've missed in the past 10 odd days!

PS... I'm REALLY sorry about missing the Paper Passion blog hop.

Hope everyone has a fabulous day!

Finally... a new post!

2009-08-17T23:15:00.000-07:00

I know.. I know.. I've been slacking, but it's not because I don't love you all... I do. I love the fact that there are people out there who come by for a visit when they have time...

I've been a busy busy gal this past few days... I've been scrapping, and visiting, and socializing! Yes, that's right it was our monthly Scrapaholics crop! It was great as always, lots of creative inspiration! Gotta Love that.

Other big news for me... I've signed up as a Stampin Up! Independent Demonstrator! Now I know, you're all thinking when are you going to have the time. I know I'll find the time though because I just love making cards. So I figure it will happen as it's supposed to. It has however spawned some new creative juices!

How much do you LOVE the cheese factor on that slideshow... hollywood style! Too Funny!

Ok... the other thing that I've missed was a couple of tags.. one from Nora and one from Carrie... it's the 15 Random things.... so here goes....

1. I am not afraid of heights..but afraid of the water when I can't see the bottom

2. I hate to kill anything (except mosquitos..they can all be slapped DEAD)

3. There is no bad vegetable, only bad vegetable cooks (not me, I cook wicked)

4. I can tell my left from right, you all just get it backwards

5. I hate slapstick comedy, but it always makes me laugh

6. I'm still not sick of Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl"

7. I lived in 2 cities growing up, but attended a total of 12 different schools...and not once was I kicked out. No wonder I have mad math skillz.... NOT.

8. I have 9 different Buddha's in my house, but I'm not Buddhist.

9. I could exist on Chips and Salsa, Guacamole and Limonata soda (perhaps not all together and then only until I needed pepsid. Ok...maybe some seven layer dip too.

10. My dream job does not exist.

11. I could happily exist in a marriage with 3 dedicated husbands... that would be Mike (my current...and bestest) and ...Tom..and Wentworth...or Edward Cullen...oh the list could go on.

12. I have yet to find a dessert I like more than chocolate cake. But I mean good Chocolate Cake, like Thrifty's or Whole Foods. Screw homemade (by me anyway)

13. I have a Mac, but I'm really a PC. I'm a fake, but not for lack of trying. I just can't seem to bond even after 2 years.

14. I'm afraid if I moved to the Maritimes no one would like me because I'm way way WAY anti seal hunt. Seriously, I think I'd be shunned, is that wrong to think????

15. My cat Taz is my personal nemesis! (I still love her though)

So there you have it.. my 15 random things...

Now, I'm going to tag a couple of people... You only have to do it if you have the time!

Well there you have it.. some news, some creativity and some strange little facts... What more could you want?

Peace out!

I must apologize...

2009-08-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

for the blatant rip off of Canada.com (you can read the story here) and the Calgary Herald..however, this caught my attention, and I had no choice but to share it with as many people as possible. WARNING... possible side splitting may occur... WARNING... swallow liquids before having a closer look.

Ok, likely you looked at the picture before reading this so I can't really warn you. Come on, is this not seriously funny?? This has got to be one of the best spontaneous animal pics EVAH!

Every time I look at this it cracks me up. I love it so much, I had to print it off and put it on my desk at work.

Hope you have a laugh today.

Hayley

Strength in a Circle

2009-08-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

some days it's nice to get a virtual hug. it was my day to receive one from my friend Diane. So I'm being sly again, checking my friends blogs while I'm at work (deny deny deny...ahem, the blog post time is surely an hour off...) and I pop on over to my friend Diane's...and sure enough, big warm squishy hug in the form of ....

how totally lovely and very much appreciated. It's been an up and down week (as you all know) but heck it's friday today, so let's crack open the stamps, inks and embellies tonight and have ourselves a little creative.. (hmmm... the word I was going to use likely would not make everyone happy and may raise eyebrows..possible cause a few people to drop me like a hot pan...and then again, perhaps a few might say...hey this chica is wild one with the keyboard...alas, I'll stick to the safe side)..ummm...party. Yeah, Creative Party! Oh yes... it's Crop night at Dianes so indeed, I'm cutting footloose at her place, picking up my Sunday shoes.. (not really, I'll be wearing socks, but whatever - you get the point)

This here is a toughy to send to only 5 peep/gnomies/friends/etc... because I've been so fortunate as to meet so many lovely ladies, both online and in person through this incredible hobby and passion we all share. Can you even imagine your life now without this craft? Without blog buddies, crop nights either online or inperson? I can't. It's become this wonderful place that I get to delve in to as often as I want, because it's always there for me.

So without further ado, please let me share this award with some great great fun ladies who in their own way inspire me everyday to create, share, experience and just remember to not take life too seriously and just have fun. I hope in some small way I return the favour to them and to others.

Carrie

Callista

Kathy (yah, I know you were tagged already)

Jocelyn

Melissa

Thanks dollfaces. So now it's your turn to pass this lovely award on to some deserving friends both/either/or online or in person. It's your boat to float. Just be sure you do pass on praise.

Have a fabulous Friday and a creatively wonderful weekend.

Now go create and scrap the heck out of it.

Words of the day...

2009-08-06T12:02:00.000-07:00

a few relative words for the day...

TIRED
– adjective
1. exhausted, as by exertion; fatigued or sleepy: a tired runner.
2. weary or bored (usually fol. by of): tired of the same food every day.
3. hackneyed; stale, as a joke, phrase, or sermon.
4. Informal. impatient or disgusted: You make me tired.

CRANK-Y
- adjective, crankier, crankiest
1. ill-tempered; grouchy; cross: I'm always cranky when I don't get enough sleep.
2. eccentric; queer.
3. shaky; unsteady; out of order.
4. full of bends or windings; crooked.
5. British Dialect. sickly; in unsound or feeble condition; infirm.

KAPUT
–adjective Slang.
1. ruined; done for; demolished.
2. unable to operate or continue: The washing machine is suddenly kaput.

—Idiom
3. go kaput, to cease functioning; break down: The old car finally went kaput.

I'm just saying... it's time for a vacation.

I better check my lotto ticket.. you never know...

Damn that would be the shizzle!

Peace.

Happy Hump Day..

2009-08-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

You know, today is pretty good. It's Wednesday, that means almost Friday, which means almost the weekend. I'm in DIRE need of Vacation time, so anytime it's close to the weekend I feel like I can start breathing again. This working full time business... who invented this anyway. I want to kick their butt with my uncomfortable pumps! Jerks! Wait, I'm in a good mood..right, ok, yes... what I was trying to say is that hooray, it's almost the weekend.

Mike and I are going to be doing some redecorating in our place. It's kind of Callista's fault. You see, she spray painted some black decor items in her place a nice fresh colour, and that got me thinking. I hate my place. I feel like for the past 8 years that I've been living in someone else's place. So I'm taking control, and I'm going to start the purge! So starting this weekend, Mike and I are going to figure out the old "Charity, Keep & Throw Away" starting with our living room book shelves. He's then agreed to go to a bunch of stores over the next few weeks looking at older used furniture that I can refinish and paint all funky. Seriously, I've never done it before, but my mom has, and I'm sure she'll have some great advice for me. (hear that mom.. I think you have great advice to give!!) This I think will be a great adventure. If you have any advice... please share! So I'll keep you posted. Oh.. and if you know of any cool decorator type websites for ideas and whatnot please send them my way too.

Did you guys see that Peachy Cheap today is THICKERS??? $5.99 US for 4! ($4.99 shipping to Canada) but still... that's plum cheap!

Tonight is our Scrapaholics Coffee Meetup. I'm looking forward to spending a bit of time with my ladies in crafty posse. You know.. hang'in with my gnomies and all.

oh... and having some disgustingly de-lish blueberry pie. I will definitely post a picture of the pie later today. It's truly to die for, if one would want to die for pie, it would be THE PIE.

and now for your moment of cuteness....

one bowl of cuteness....

Have a really wonderful day everyone, and hopefully find some time to feed your creative soul!

Glauser...OUT!

This ranks pretty right up there..

2009-08-04T00:13:00.000-07:00

as one of the best weekends I've had this year. Seriously people, this was a great weekend. Firstly, it was long. This Monday is my Sunday, which means this Tuesday is like my Monday, so if you're following me, you'll get it that yes, it's true, it's a short week! Rock on!

So exactly did I do all weekend?

Well, Friday night Mike and I went to see a movie called "The Hurt Locker" I highly recommend it, I really enjoyed it. Basically, it's about a bomb squad in Iraq. No not a chick flick. Still, very much worth going to see, or renting in the future. Saturday was our big night out though. We packed the dogs off to the in-laws, poured a little extra cat chow, set the fans on super cool and took off for the night to the Four Seasons in DT Vancouver. I had won a night at the hotel at my Christmas shindig thrown by our company. Anyway, we checked in to the hotel, relaxed for a bit and then went out for a nice long stroll through Vancouver.

Did a bit of shopping, and then grabbed a bite to eat on Davie St. at Hamburger Mary's. Pretty fun. There is this awesome little urban community garden right at Burrard and Davie St. We took a little wander through, still the Sunflowers really caught my eye.

It was pride weekend, and it was a wonderful fun atmosphere with everyone getting ready to celebrate and enjoy the parade the next day.

Then it was off to English Bay to watch the fireworks. We found a perfect spot right along the pathway directly in front of the barge. It helped that there was about 3 and a half hours to wait.... but it was relaxing and a great evening.

Mike's just relaxing... wheat style I guess..

I'd say we were not quite bumps on a log but for three hours you see quite a bit of character...

Hari Krishna people, just sing it..

The crowds are a gather'n..

It was a spectacular sunset..

Did someone say cheese???

Some seriously gorgeous fireworks...

Sunday it was time to go home..so that's what we did. Picked up some Chinese food on the way, and just kicked back.

Today, it was a girls day out. Carrie and I headed over to Clipper Street for some scrapping time. I think I packed my entire room, for seriously, one measly mini album, and 1 completed layout and 1 not quite completed. I need therapy!!

Anyway, over all it was just a really wonderful relaxing weekend!

Thanks for stopping by!

Peace gnomies.

There's a new Card Challenge Site...

2009-07-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

Brand spanking new. They are still looking for DT's for challenges. You'll have until August 3rd to send in your application. Me.. I just want to play!! I'm happy on the participating side these days!! The site is called Get Sketchy and you can jump to the blog here. Can't wait to see what the challenges are. They start August 14th!

Just thought I'd spread the news..

H

This ones for Callista....

2009-07-31T00:03:00.000-07:00

What's the opposite of our extreme heat wave.... Ah.. your lovely Seattle snow.

Ok, we had a lot of snow here too this past winter... A LOT. But I don't recall any reports quite like this.

Sorry it's not a cute baby animal.. I thought a reminder of the opposite to extreme heat might work too. This is one of those..you have to laugh because it's so unbelievable, but you don't want to because someone might have gotten hurt. I hope not..it seems pretty slow mo. Anyway, as a previous claims adjuster, this does give me a chuckle.

Hope you all have a fabulous day, stay hydrated! Thanks for popping by to say hello!

Cheers!

Too too TOO cute for Words..

2009-07-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

as you know.. or will now be finding out I guess.. I'm a HUGE animal welfare nut, and love all creatures great and small (sometimes very small...right Carrie...) Anyway, I couldn't help myself by sharing this adorable little video... If you have a minute or two, just sit back and prepare for a giant... Aaaaawwwww... so cute!

Have a great day everyone!

Worth a quick read, it will make you smile

2009-07-29T11:58:00.001-07:00

Recently, in a large French city, a poster featuring a young, thin and tan woman appeared in the window of a gym. It said:

?THIS SUMMER DO YOU WANT TO BE A MERMAID OR A WHALE??

A middle aged woman, whose physical characteristics did not match those of the woman on the poster, responded publicly to the question posed by the gym.

To Whom It May Concern:

Whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, sea lions, curious humans). They have an active sex life, they get pregnant and have adorable baby whales. They have a wonderful time with dolphins stuffing themselves with shrimp. They play and swim in the seas, seeing wonderful places like Patagonia, the Barren Sea and the coral reefs of Polynesia . Whales are wonderful singers and have even recorded CDs. They are incredible creatures and virtually have no predators other than humans. They are loved, protected and admired by almost everyone in the world.

Mermaids don't exist. If they did exist, they would be lining up outside the offices of Argentinean sychoanalysts due to identity crisis. Fish or human? They don't have a sex life because they kill men who get close to them not to mention how could they have sex? Therefore they do not have kids either. Not to mention who wants to get close to a girl who smells like a fish store? The choice is perfectly clear to me; I want to be a whale.

P.S. We are in an age when media puts into our heads the idea that only skinny people are beautiful, but I prefer to enjoy an ice cream with my kids, a good dinner with a man who makes me shiver and a drink with my
friends. With time we gain weight because we accumulate so much information and wisdom in our heads that when there is no more room it distributes out to the rest of our bodies. So we aren't heavy, we are enormously cultured, educated and happy. Beginning today, when I look at my butt in the mirror I will think, "Good gosh, look how smart I am."

I'm SUPER smart then! LOL! Love you all.

Read it and ...

2009-07-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

well I was going to say "and weep" but ... I've been tagged! Ok, I was tagged before the weekend, but with the Christmas in July Blog Party, then my hangover from that, then this freakish heat wave, I lost track of time.. so I'm catching up!

This is a fun tag I think... here is the deal...

1. Collect the book that you have most handy
2. Turn to page 161
3. Find the 5th complete sentence
4. Cite the sentence on your blog
5. Pass it on to 5 other bloggers)

Ok.. my most handy book (that is non work related) is "Breaking Dawn"...

and yes, I'm reading the Twilight Saga AGAIN...It's just as good the second time around. Anyway... my sentence is..

"So, what?"

I had to make sure with my "He who knows everything" husband that it is indeed a complete sentence.

So there you have it..

Now.. on to my blogger victims...

I am going to tag...

Vanessa

Nicole

Zoe

Jodi

Stephanie

Read it (literally) and weep! HAH! I knew I'd work that in somehow! Taaaa Daaaa!

So what are you up to today. (Me, about 5'8) - that was for you Diane....

H to the G.

Gah! UPS grrrr...

2009-07-28T14:19:00.001-07:00

Just putting this out there people.... UPS are not my friends. I'm not feeling the love for the men/women/whatever in brown. Why do you need a suite number when it's just 16th floor. Why not go upstairs and see if there is more than one suite...maybe the 16th Floor is the freaking address!!! Ok, deep breath, deep breath....

There is always tomorrow, but I don't want to wait until tomorrow. Ok, whinefest complete. Back to your regularily scheduled programing....

Melt your shoes..

2009-07-28T09:38:00.001-07:00

Seriously, what's up with the heat people?? It's disgustingly hot out these days. I'm not sure what to think. Global Warming? I don't know, but whatever it is, I wish it would stop. Although we had a seriously funky cool amazing lightening show on the weekend, on Sunday I woke up to find most of my paper warped in my craft room from the sudden humidity!!!! That has never happened before. I would say today is when hell freezes over, but with the temp..it's not happening. I say this because this would be the first time EVER that I woke up on a beautiful sunny day and thought...Ugh..thankfully I'll be at work soon. GAH! What's wrong with that picture!!
Ok, now that I'm here, I'm moderately happy, but I still wish I was at home with an airconditioner instead.

First I s'pose I gots to by me an airconditioner....

So how do you beat the heat?

This heat is making me pooped and zapping my mojo. (someone sounds a bit crankypants eh!)

Peace.

2009-07-27T08:58:00.000-07:00

Ok.. you're all going to have to believe the honesty factor here. Everytime I do the Random.com intergerthingy, I can never get it to copy correctly, so this is the best I can do!! I chose 34 for as the number, because that was the number of posts, and since a few mentioned that the follower button was not working, I thought I'd just give everyone a chance. So here we go...

True Random Number Generator Min: 1 Max: 34 Result: 8 Powered by RANDOM.ORG

So there you have it! Maggie has won my blog candy! Pretty cool considering all the work she went in to organizing all of us party animals. I think it's quite fitting. Maggie, I'll be emailing you for your deets girl!

Thank you to everyone who took the time to come on over to my party, hang out, have some cookies and relax.

It was great to hop through everyone elses parties too, found lots of need blogs that I wouldn't have known otherwise. Can't wait to visit again!

Happy Monday everyone!

Hayley

All I want for Christmas....

2009-07-25T00:24:00.000-07:00

..is BLOG CANDY!... but more about that in a bit!

Welcome, welcome... WELCOME to my Christmas Blog Party! I'm thinking you've you've just joined me from Maggie's Blog "Just Add Glitter and Stir"... Christmas in July Blog Party!

Can you believe we are now more that half way to Christmas. OMG.. have you started shopping, or are you a crafty diva who makes all her goodies? I'm a bit of both, or so I like to think anyway. Christmas is such a crazy freaky wild busy fun warm fuzzy kind of time of year. I love it. I love the build up, and I love the exhaustion after the fact. I love that my mom makes me Rugala every year and I never ever share them. Don't touch my Rugala baby or your in BIG trouble!

Usually our Christmas is balanced between my family and Mikes... it can be busy, that's for sure. But it's always interesting. There's something just really wonderful about seeing your sweetie next to a Christmas Tree... until you see prezzies underneath with your name on them..then they can't move fast enough out of the way!

So I have a few things here to entertain you.... how about an 80's flashback to my favourite Christmas release EVAH! Check it..

I've got some Crafty Christmas Cards for you to check out... I can't wait to make a whole new batch... I'm thinking I'll be sending out about 50 this year, so not so bad! What about you, how many do you send out?

Is there a particular Christmas Carol that you really love? I've chosen a few that I enjoy and put them on a playlist for you on my side bar... have a listen, they'll keep you in the Christmassy mood for sure. But this next video is crafted to I think the most heart wrenching tear jerking Christmas carol in the universe. If you know me, you know that I have a serious fear of dying. To the point that I can't stand it when anything dies. Let along like something in the song. You just have to listen!

Ok, back to something a bit more festive....everyone loves a good Christmas Cookie.. right? Am I right? Well here is a gorgeous shortbread recipe that is totally no fail, seriously. NO FAIL. so give it a try, it's totally worth it.

What about a favourite Christmas Ornament? Do you collect anything? I've got this crazy weird thing going for Cardinals... no reason, just seem to love'em!

And Mike's favourite to put up at Christmas time is undoubtedly...

Now... keeping with the sweet... may I tempt you with some blog candy????

It's easy... 2 things.

#1 - Join me on this crazy adventure and become a follower (if you already are and you leave me a comment, then sweet, it's even easier for you...but you still have to do the second bit!!)

and..

#2 - Leave a comment letting me know what your favourite Christmas movie is!

Now come on..how easy is that. Easypeasylemonsqueezy! I will do the draw on Sunday 26th at 10pm Pacific Time.

Thanks for stopping by my party... please don't forget your coat, and make sure you take your own keys with you!

Muuuuwah Darlinks! Merry Julymas!

All Good Things...

2009-07-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

must sometimes come to an end.

Well it's been quite a week for me here in Hades... well, OK, calling Vancouver Hades might be a bit much. It's been stink'n hot up until today, but we're getting a bit of a break.

Lots of things going on in Hayley's world right now. Firstly, my journey as The Design Team Coordinator with The Paper Passion has come to a close. I had to step down. It was a wonderful experience and I met LOTS of fantastic ladies on the forum boards. It was so much fun participating in the online crops, blog hop and all the challenges. What a group of characters! (ahem.. Pam...LOL... chin hair and commando!!... TMI!!!!)
I'm a bit sad about my journey with The Paper Passion coming to an end, but like I said, all good things must come to an end. It was time for me to part ways and step down because as much as I thought I was contributing, helping to create, foster and encourage, I was told that more was needed. I was just not able to provide more than what I was already giving.

As a "rewarded with yummy products" volunteer, I still have commitments to my family, friends and to myself. I wasn't ready to say goodbye to my other wonderful friends and activities like my Scrapaholics group and other crops and events that I like to participate in. Not to mention there are about 5 gazillion movies that Mike wants to go to, and I want to be out riding my bike a lot more. That's also important to me. I believe in a balanced life, and remaining would not allow the balance I need. I wish I could give them what they needed, but I need to maintain balance.

They have a wonderful design team that will carry on, and I'm sure it will grow and flourish.

That being said, I still fully endorse The Paper Passion as a fantastic place to shop for all the best products and certainly prices in Canada. Not to mention Rosa's attention to detail even in the packaging of your goodies. She loves her customers and it shows. She will take great care of you down to the tiniest details of when you open your purchase upon receiving it in the mail - super speedy, I might add!

I wish her and her team all the best, and know someday they will be the biggest online store in Canada!

So what on earth else is going on with me you ask???

Well...

Have I told you about my tomato plant? I've named it Killer (I will take a photo this week for sure!) OMG. Seriously, this thing is going to take over my balcony soon, and for what ... 4 little tiny tiny tomatoes. I swear, I've googled all about tomato plants, feeding, sun..blah blah blah.. this plant hates my guts, I'm sure of it! It's seriously lurking in the window off the balcony..and it's guarding our BBQ so I can't even use it. I can hear it taunting me as I pass by the balcony door. Silently screaming that it's going to keep growing but give me nothing! Grrrrr.... tonight I'm going to wave my garden shears at it and see if that makes it shape up a bit. I will not let it get the best of me. well.. I hope not.

This Saturday was supposed to be Mike and my first Date Night with Fireworks since, well, Disneyland in 2006 if that counts.. but alas the lure of a term paper due (worth like 25% of his grade) perhaps should take precedence over our little night out at the fireworks. So next weekend instead we are going to have our wonderful evening out and stay at The Four Seasons. so watch out all you 500,000 crazy fools in English Bay... I'll be there.. tripod in hand! I can't wait to test it out taking fireworks shots!! Should be fun.

Change of Plans... can't keep me down long! This weekend Carrie and I will be joining Jo W. and Izzy at The Pick of the Patch all day crop on Saturday!! I'm really excited about this because I haven't been to a real live 10-10 all day'r since I don't know when! Our Scrapaholics crops are usually 9-6.. I know that's only a few hours shy.. but it's a Jedi mind trick or something.. it just feels much shorter!! Now.. the trick will be to plan what I work on, and not take multi totes with a mini store of goods with me, then get overwhelmed that I have too much to choose from.. then get scrapper's block. Sound familiar??

I'm thinking it's time to catch up on some cards, I'm out of birthday cards... and thank you cards.
Plus, I'd like to complete this nice Crate Paper mini album I've been working on. Not to mention, some more layouts from my Vietnam trip! I know, old news, but hey, I'm determined to scrap them.

That's not all that's going on this weekend! My friend Maggi is hosting a Christmas in July blog party! (see side banner for details) and you can find Maggie's blog here. So you'll see a change in my blog design etc for a little bit while I participate in her very fun event on Saturday. Carrie is also participating so you'll need to hop on over to Carrie's blog as well.. why, why? Why come back here too? Well.... because #1 you love me! (not really, I know..) and #2 because we will bribe you.. BLOG CANDY!! yes scream it out loud people, let your voices free!
B L O G C A N D Y!!! So... will you come back and visit now? All the details will be here on Saturday the 25th.

Well, I'm thinking that's the news... I'm sure I'll be posting lot's more again..so be warned. I can be a chatterbox. I now also have lots more time to catch up on all of your blogs!! This means a lot to me because I have really missed that. So prepare for the assault..wait, I don't mean I'm going to assault your blogs, I mean I'm going to be all over them! Oh geezz... I hope that makes sense!

(Making sense.. not my forte!)

So what are your plans this weekend? I'm hoping it's time to relax, get some fresh air, have some fun, and some time to get your create ON!

Peace Out!

H to the G.

Hot as Hades... Seriously

2009-07-16T22:11:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm dyin' up here...in my little green room... with a crappy little fan....and two annoying cats that keep jumping all over my stuff. Can ya tell I'm a crankypants?

Ok, on to more blog friendly things... Here are a couple of quick layouts created with our July Fancy Pants Summer Soiree Kit. It's just such a great line, it makes me feel like hitting the beach! Backyard bbq's, sunset walks... watermelon, popsicles, swimming, cherries, ice cream...I digress.

That's the last layout I'll subject the world to with me in a bathing suit...promise!

Now.. I can't not mention my bud's blog candy now can I?? Hop on over to Callista's Blog and check out her seriously sweet swag blog candy she's giving away! If you do (hint hint) maybe you could let her know you saw it here??? Pretty please..

Now feast.. (trueblood style!)

What have you been up to??

2009-07-12T19:04:00.000-07:00

Me... I've been up to these... and a few more on the way....
These are a few of the layouts I created while participating in The Paper Passion Online Funtastic Crop!
It was a gas... the ladies who hang out there are just awesome.

Holy Doodle!

2009-07-10T21:37:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the new kit at The Paper Passion. Rosa has out done herself again! It just baffles me how you can get so much in a kit for her prices. It's ridiculous!

The big release was today..which also happens to be our "Funtastic"Online Crop too! I think you should come say hi in the forum and check out this delish kit. I can't wait to get some layouts done!

Ok seriously... The July Funtastic Kit featuring Fancy Pants Summer Soiree..is $29.99
WHAT?
Yes!

Wait until you see the kit add ons! Oh My Word... that's all I can say.

Ok, I'm off to play

Check it!

When it Rains...it Pours..

2009-07-08T09:53:00.000-07:00

Or so that's what I'm told!

Wow is there ever a lot going on right now. Firstly, sorry for not posting for a week! Holy Delay eh!

I hurt my back a week Tuesday last and it's been a thorn in my side, or more accurately a golf ball under my left shoulder blade, and it's making me freaking miserable! I can't sit comfortably, stand comfortably and it's making my sleep pattern all whacked out. So yes.. it's true, I am officially The Poor Muffin. Let me hear you say it.... ahhhhhhhh... Poor Hayley Muffin.....

Ok, now on to more interesting stuff for you to read...

Wow, busy busy busy week over at The Paper Passion. Our fantastic Guest Designer Jennifer wrapped up her term at the end of June and we have now selected the next GDT... what, did I say GDT... I mean THREE GDT's... that's right, a hat trick. We went whole hog and splurged on 3! I would like to give a very warm welcome to Nicole, Pam and Wendy our new Guest Designer Team! Welcome Ladies, I know you'll do a fantastic job! I can't wait to work with you.

To celebrate our next kit release and because it's summer (tho' you could fooled me by looking outside right now) we are having our Summer "Funtastic" Crop. This one promises to be not only as fun as the last one... but even better! I know, I didn't think that was possible either! We've got tons of volunteers for challenges, games.. and even a tutorial!

So if you haven't already signed up in the The Paper Passion Forum, what are you waiting for... come hang out and play!

Wait... I'm missing something.... oh yes.. PRIZES... PRIZES... PRIZES... Yeah ROSA! Never one to disappoint, Rosa has lots of prizes for this weekend.

And just when you thought it couldn't get any better... We will be having spotlight sales going on in the The Paper Passion store through the weekend. Now you all know that Rosa has THE BEST PRICES IN CANADA.. and if you take her wonderful prices.. and then add a sale on top of that? It's just plain crazy talk! So be sure to check it out, it will be worth it.

So I've been up to a few things.. making some baby announcements for a friend, shower invitations for another.. a few layouts.. and a new sketch for you to try... here is a peek of what I've been up to.

Just a quick page sketch for you to try. If you use it, I'd love to see you link a comment back to where you've posted it so I can check it out!!

Here is a version of it I did.. (sorry for the crappy lighting in the picture!)

And just for fun... because who doesn't like pumpkin guts... and yes, there is hidden journalling under the pumpkin photo..

Now go get your Create On!

Taking a moment to remember

2009-06-25T22:02:00.000-07:00

Two icons passed away today. I think after you get to a certain age, you start to notice mortality more deeply. It seems for me, when I was younger, it was so far off, and really never touching my life. I've been very lucky to have only a few people and relatives close to me pass away. Although today both people who died were not a part of my life, they both meant something to me. Farrah Fawcett was an icon to me because she was Charlie's Angels. Sure, there were others, but for me it was her. I hope that she passed without pain, and finally will have peace. My heart goes out to her loved ones.

With Michael Jackson, I'm shocked and saddened that what most people will remember him by is not his genius, but his strangeness over the past 10 years or so. I hope that people will look beyond the antics, the accusations, the settlements, the half truths and take a moment to remember what an incredible performer and amazing artist he was. His mark is everywhere in popular music even today. I may not have been his biggest fan, but I'm a fan none the less and will never forget how cool thriller was when I was 13, or the power of "We are the World" and the desire for us all to come together to solve hunger around the world. I choose to remember these things, and not babies over balconies (not that that wasn't INSANE) I'm just saying.. I choose to hum Rock with You instead of shake my head at his crazy times. I wish only the best for his children.

Peace.

Another Great Giveaway!

2009-06-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

Have you been over to the Give Away Today Site? They have an awesome giveaway going on for Imaginisce! It's totally worth checking out. You have up to 4 chances to enter!! Good luck to everyone... but I hope I win! ha ha!

Just to confirm... #11

2009-06-22T10:37:00.000-07:00

Ok, so apparently I'm the techno whiz I think I am (well...maybe a little, but I've been humbled)Anyway, apparently my random number thingy is a widget that I copied right in to the post, and it's changeable...so before it can be messed with, I want to confirm that the winning number is 11.
I know it can get serious when prizes are involved, so I wanted to make sure I've taken care to CMA! (if you don't know what that is....it has to do with covering ones' anatomy!)

So Laina, thank you for sending me your address... I'll get your goody bag off to you as arranged!

Peace!

And the winner is...

2009-06-20T23:52:00.000-07:00

or says True Random Number Generator...

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:11Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Congratulations.. go to LAINA!! I've taken the liberty of posting a photo...to make everyone else jealous! I sure hope you likey! Laina you'll have to PM your address on The Paper Passion Forum so I can send it out to you ASAP! That is if you want it...

I just also wanted to post a special shout out to Jill who's blog got deleted by accident from the hop list! My apologies.. so make sure you all take a minute to go check out her blog and her truly wicked AWESOME creations...

What a great hop and online crop over at The Paper Passion! We had 10 challenges going this weekend. Did you know every week we have multiple challenges! It's lots of fun, so you should come join in the fun!

Let's see... also this weekend in non-scrappy news (If you can believe there is such a thing!!) Mike and I went to go see Up in 3D.. how cool is that! It was a lot of fun, and yes... there were a few tears shed... I can't help it.

Tonight Mike and I went for a lovely dinner at the Green Basil, which is a fabulous Thai restaurant. It was totally deeee-Lish!

So tomorrow, we are having my Dad and Sis over to have a nice afternoon BBQ to celebrate Father's Day. What are the chances it's going to rain... oh I don't know.. like 99% What a pain in the a$$! Seriously!

Have a great Sunday peeps... and take a bit of time to yourself and go get your create on!

Glauser..OUT!

Do the Hop...The Blog Hop that is....

2009-06-18T00:56:00.000-07:00

We are having our very 1st ever Blog Hop with The Paper Passion! To celebrate Father's Day this coming weekend we've got a tribute to dear ol'Dad! That's right... if you're looking for some inspiration for that Father's Day card or a tribute layout..we'll you've hopped on over to the right place.

Wait.. have I mentioned the prize yet? No? How totally forgetful and plain rude of me!

Yes there is a prize..actually, there will be a few along the way! Starting right here! I'm giving away BLOG CANDY on Father's Day.. that's right, I'll have a nice little goodie bag of scraptastic treats! You won't be disappointed. All you have to do for my Blog Candy is leave a comment and sign up as a follower! If you're already following, well how totally cool is that - you're half way there!

Want to win more PRIZES??? Well... here's how you can. Hop on over to Jenn's Blog who also happens to be our fabulous Guest Designer over at The Paper Passion..and check out her Father's Day creation. Then keep hopping until you reach The Paper Passion Blog. Leave a comment on all the blogs along the way and then a final comment on The Paper Passion Blog and we'll enter you in to a draw for a great gift from the store! Did I mention you might find a few RAK's along the way?

Now here's the catch... you know there is always at least one! You have until Midnight Saturday (you're own local time is fine) to complete the blog hop! Not bad, 3 days! Lot's of time to grab a cup of Joe and do a little surfing of some great blogs and amazing designs!

So have fun... and go get your hop ON!

Here's to you Dad!

I made this card thinking about my Dad's love of all things nature. One of the things I admire most about him is his willingness for being an old dog learning new tricks..like to recycle! That's cool. I love the fact that he has this immense respect for the beauty of the planet and all the creatures upon it.

I love you Dad.

In case you need the full list of participating blogs... here you go...

Have Fun!

Lost....

2009-06-14T00:13:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen my allen key to unblock my 7th Chakra??

LOL...

that ones for you Jo W.

What goes up....

2009-06-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

You know what sucks... when you're not feeling well and pretty much everything starts to lose whatever sparkle it had...just...pshhhttbth..gone. Then you kinda have to scrape all that energy you need to shine it all up again from somewhere. So what do you do? Do you scrap? Paint? Sew? Draw? Cook? Relate? Reach out? Or... do you do what I do, retreat? I retreat to re-energize, to invigorate, to find solace to just be able to exist. I take care. That's what I do, I take care.

Lot's is going on this week and on top of it all, I'm fighting off a nasty cold. It seems to be many daily battles this bug is waging. I'll get it in the end I just know it.

So, no scrapping this past week, which has sucked bad, since I've got a mountain of projects underway. I'm lacking the mojo when I'm sick to get them done.

One very positive thing I have done though this week is find an "anchor picture". One that you can put up ... say in one's cubicle at work... and when things are a little shall we say... not so wonderful.. one can look up at the picture and be reminded of something. Here's my anchor picture. It speaks volumes to me, but for you, it might be a little "What?" but that's why it's mine and not yours.

So hopefully you're outside, taking some time to enjoy some wonderful summer sunshine. If you can, drink your morning tea or coffee outside in the fresh air and take a moment to relax before the rush of the day begins again.

I think I'm ready to scrap again....tomorrow. What about you?

Want to be the next The Paper Passion Guest Designer?

2009-06-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

thought that might grab you're attention just a little bit...
Yup, it's that time again! We have opened the search again for the next not one... but TWO Guest Designers over at The Paper Passion!

Here are the details....which can also be found in The Paper Passion Forum and The Paper Passion Blog!

Our next submission for designers will be open from June 02, 2009 to June 30, 2009. We will announce the winner on July 1st 2009.

What We Are Looking For:
We are looking for the following characteristics in our Guest Design Team Members:
*Inspiring
*Friendly and open attitude
*Design originality
*Ability to create layouts with a range of skill from more basic to more advanced
*Creative use of products and the ability to use the kit materials but also think out of the box
*Ability to use a variety of styles and use new and up-to-date techniques
*Ability to work within time lines and under pressure
*Scrappers who are highly involved in online scrapbooking communities with a wide reach to promote The Paper Passion
*Ability to create layout sketches
*Active participation on our Paper Passion Forum.

Only those applicants who join and participate on our Message Board will be considered. We want to have an opportunity to get to know you and for you to get to know our online community. This will help to assure a good fit.

You have the whole month of June to submit the following to either contactme@thepaperpassion.com AND hayleycreates@gmail.com (but it must be in by June 30th!)

Please submit:
*5 layouts 2 cards showcasing your personal style
*1 Altered item, which could be a mini album or some other creation
*Please let us know a little bit about you, and why you want to be our Guest Designer

As the Guest Design Team member you will be required to commit to the following: * Complete 4-5 items with your kit/product package, with a minimum of 3 being Layouts and upload to TPP DT Gallery
* Ongoing participation in our forum with the best members online!
* Two coordinated store blog posts per month including one instructional format post
* Participate by hosting one DT Challenge each month during your term
* Host one new Game Thread during your term
* Host one Saturday Online Crop Nite
* Participate by hosting our Question of the Day and Layout of the Day Spotlight
* Participate in our Online Crop as both a Volunteer and a Member
* If you have a blog, promote The Paper Passion Forum and special events to generate excitement

What you'll get:
* Featured Kit packed full of everything needed in order to make your wonderful DT Creations (or)
or a selection of new products that are either featured or will soon be featured in the Store!
* Special supplies as required in order to create additional planned projects
* 10% off your personal product purchases during your design team term.
* Support and Encouragement to have a fantastic DT Experience

The Fine Print:
*You agree to release the rights of your designs to The Paper Passion for display on the company web site, forum and in company materials and publications.
*For obvious reasons, while a designer for The Paper Passion, you may not design for any other online scrapbooking stores. Sketch sites, challenge sites and manufacturers sites are acceptable.Everyone is welcome to enter, please don't be shy!Good Luck, and we can’t wait to see what you come up with! Please post any questions or message either Rosa or Hayley
*No purchase necessary in order to join The Paper Passion Forum or be a Guest Designer.

Even more news now...

This weekend I was asked by Mary and Sandra who co-organize the BC Scrapbooking Crop For Kids to attend with Mary and my friend Izzy the BC Children's Hospital Miracle Network Telethon to help present the donation cheque from last years BC Crop for Kids!! So we are going to be on TV during the telethon. It's schedule from 10-11am this coming Sunday the 7th of June!

This is such a worthwhile event. Not only is it a blast, not only does it sell out, not only is it chockablock full of awesomeness in the form of fun classes...but it raises money for the Children's Hospital. What could be better than scrapping for a cause??!!

There are still class passes available for the event in October, and if you missed the sale of the crop seats, you can still be added to the waiting list.

See all the details here!

So... who's sending me their Guest Designer application package????? I can't wait to see them all!!

Cheers,
Hayley

What's not to love about a Friday??

2009-05-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining... the birdies are a chirping...and it's the weekend. (Well...officially in about 5 hrs and 26 minutes, but whose counting!) So what are your plans this weekend?? Are you spending some quality time creating anything? I'm definitely getting my create on!
Tonight I'll be relaxing and scrapping at home. It's an early night for me because I do not want to sleep in. Tomorrow I'll be having breakfast with Mom at Sophie's Cafe..and then doing some garage sales...maybe I'll pick up some really funky finds. After that, I'm heading to a garden centre so I can get a few flowers to put on our balcony, and maybe at the garage sale I'll find a small patio set or something (Fingers Crossed) Saturday Night, perhaps it's a movie night - or Mike and I will kick Rockband Style... I think he said he was finally going to get RB2, so we'll have some new tunes to play! Rock on my brutha's and Sista's!
Sunday... oh joyous Sunday...it's a Scrapaholics Crop for me. Hooray! I'll be gather'en with the gals from The Scrapaholics and cropping the day away.

My To Do list is RIDICULOUS right now... so I better be plenty organized for the crop if I want to accomplish my goal for the day...

Let's see...

12 Birthday Cards for a Swap
2 Circle Journal Layouts
1-2 Kit Layouts
15 Wedding Shower Invites
10 Baby Announcements

See what I mean, that's a lot of production for one day...for me anyway.

Here is another Layout I did for The Paper Passion, which is another sneak peek of the papers and goodies in the upcoming kit to be released veeerrrrrryyyy soon! Have I mentioned I love October Afternoon...

Have a wonderful day everyone! Go get some Vitamin D!

Take a Peek at the Sneak!

2009-05-28T00:06:00.001-07:00

Oh yes... a new kit is coming down the pipe... perhaps you're familiar with October Afternoon....Hmmmm????

Any day now The Paper Passion will be releasing it's next kit. Now, I know ya'll think I'm biased because I have mad love for The Paper Passion.. but this IS going to be a fun kit. It's almost summertime..so that means COLOUR, FRESH and FUN.

Here is a sampler...

This layout features bazzil Cardstock, Pattern Paper from the Cherry Hill Collection, Prima Flowers, American Crafts Thickers (Which have been Glimmer Misted) and Brads from American Crafts.

It's great to be a member in our forum, why? ummm... because....

Oh yes.. not only was this a sneak peek on the Forum at The Paper Passion.. but it's also our current Design Team challenge. The Challenge for this week was to learn how to create a visual triangle to highlight your focal point in your layout. Not too difficult for the beginner, and certainly a snap for some of the more seasoned scrappers out there.

Remember.. when you load and link your layout for the challenge to the gallery and post in the challenge thread in the forum, you earn a ballot towards the monthly prize.

What prize? That would be the prize that we have at the end of each month for everyone who has participated in either/both of the Design Team Challenges and the Sketch Challenges. I mean how great is that - ongoing opportunity for swag! Love'n it!

So stay tuned... I believe you'll find another sneak peek over at The Paper Passion Blog..

Peace to my gnomies!