Pallina Designs

Life Begins at 40!

2011-07-21T23:24:00.000+12:00

I turned 40 on Saturday...holy hell, where does the time go?! Seems like yesterday I was helping Mum organise my 21st! Then came my 30th, and we'd only just moved back to New Zealand after living in Scotland for several years, so the party was just family and quite small - we were still waiting for our new sofas to be delivered, if memory serves...and the house we were renting was just big enough for the three of us (Cammie wasn't born till two years later).

I vowed that I was going to hit "mid life" with a bang!

So I had a chat with Willie, and we decided to go away for the weekend - actually, make that a LONG weekend - I took the Friday and Monday off work. We decided to head down to Ohakune, where we'd been 3 years before for our 10th wedding anniversary, and see what fun we could have in the snow. Yay! A couple of phone calls later, we'd booked a chalet that slept 8, my Mum, Dad, favourite cousin, sister and her 3 kids were all in on it. Then we started planning what to take/buy. The kids had never seen snow before (oh the fun!) so needed pretty much everything: waterproof leggings, gloves, hat, scarf, boots...the list seemed endless, but eventually we got there. Keep in mind, this was all decided 3 weeks beforehand, so no time to lose!

We stayed in a chalet in Turoa Village, in Ohakune. Just an hour's drive to Whakapapa and about half an hour's drive to Turoa. What a fantastic time we had! We planned a rendezvous in Taupo with my cousin and my folks, and then headed down through National Park to Ohakune, where we met up with my sister and her kids (who were staying at a lodge in town).

We had soooo much fun! I can honestly say, it was the best birthday ever! Ohakune is a fantastic place to stay, the snow was plentiful even though the skies were sunny and clear (yay!) and the mountain...oh, that mountain. It pretty much captured my heart, I couldn't get enough of it. So beautiful. It was an almost spiritual experience for me, the most amazing place.

All the kids - big and little - had a blast, and it was pretty much unanimous that we would go back next year and possibly every year from now on!

Thanks to everyone for making my birthday so darn unforgettable - love you guys!

This is the view from our chalet - the first thing we saw when we opened our eyes in the morning, and the reason I left the drapes open at night, so we could watch the mountain, bathed in moonlight, till we went to sleep. Pure magic. Mt Ruapehu by moonlight is something else...

The Chateau Tongariro, with snow-covered Mt Ruapehu in the background.

Mt Ngaruhoe - aka "Mt Doom" in the Lord of the Rings movies

The first view the kids get of snow - close-up...and Mum starts the first Snowball Fight. Epic!

Cousins Rhianna and Georgia on the tennis courts at the Chateau :-)

Cousins Ruben and Cammie :-)

The carrot cake (with cream cheese icing - mmmmm!) that Mum smuggled all the way from Opotiki with her! THANKS MUM!!! xxx

Georgia and Cammie head up the mountain (Whakapapa side) for some sledding fun on Sunday...

...and come back down again! Love the look on their faces!

Cammie...the face says it all, really :-)

SNOWBALL FIGHT!!!!

Doesn't this just look postcard-perfect?? "Mt Doom" (aka Ngaruhoe) glistening in the sunshine

Me and the kids with The Big Carrot at Ohakune. Well, you just gotta, don't ya??

Mt Ruapehu from Ohakune township. Glorious colours just before sunset.

My nephew Tairua...look at the glee in that face!

More Snowball Fight fun...this time Willie lobs a few at Georgia (I seriously think us big kids had almost more fun than the little kids!)

We wind our way up to the Top of the Bruce at Whakapapa (photo taken by Mum, who was following us)

Birthday Girl!! I'd just come hooning down the side of the hill on this inflatable death trap...LMAO!

Willie tried the Inflatable Death Trap...and Dad thought it was kinda funny

My sis and I on the Inflatable Death Trap...! One word: FUN!!

Georgia and I at Turoa on Sunday - less sun, more wind than Whakapapa (translation: it was FREEZING!!!)

Cammie and his Red Sled. No further caption required!

The Birthday Weekend Gang (minus my cousin, who took the photo).

Thanks for an amazing birthday guys - I'll never forget it :)

Looking for the Silver Lining...

2011-04-16T14:33:00.000+12:00

I've been laid low by some mystery viral thing over the past two weeks - really laid low...as in, sleeping 16hrs out of every 24hrs kind of laid low. And it has totally sucked. No energy for anything, least of all the things I love, which are family stuff, beading, etc etc etc.

But, sick of being sick, I thought I'd try and focus on the silver lining in all this. My list of Silver Linings is as follows:

1. I've saved 2 weeks worth of make-up. And with the cost of make-up these days, that has to be a good thing, right?

2. I've lost 4kg. I can now fit my skinny jeans! Probably not for long, but still. Good, right?

3. I've learned that the world does NOT revolve around me. Shocked the hell out of me, I can tell you!

4. My family are capable of much more than I give them credit for. Life may never be the same.

5. I have some wonderful, supportive and caring friends. Love you guys :)

And as for the chocolate pic above? Well, that's for medicinal purposes. It does nothing to fight the virus but it sure makes me feel a lot better! (Thanks for the tip Karen - luv ya!).

I get a little stronger each day. While I won't be running any marathons any time soon, I am about to dig my make-up out of storage *wink*.

Inspiration

2011-04-03T01:15:00.000+13:00

Inspiration is a funny thing. It can strike at any moment, from any angle. These past few days, I feel like I've been bombarded with it - which is a good thing (I'm not complaining!). Just thought I'd share with you what I do when that happens.

I make a pictureboard :) Something I can look at when I eventually get to sit down in my studio and have time to just play. It reminds me of the ideas I had and what had inspired me to have them. This is what my pictureboard currently looks like.

Gwynneth Paltrow in the movie version of Jane Austen's "Emma". Gorgeous dress...needs a necklace though ;)

Gorgeous shoes...but definately "sitting down shoes" :)

Beautiful silver lacy earrings (not mine - I wish!)

Love the colours used in this bouquet

My love of pink is showing isn't it? Such a cute fairy crown though.

Adore these shoes *sigh*. Not keen on the heel height in reality though (I'd probably end up killing myself if I had to walk in them). Just as well they are "fantasy shoes" and can therefore be as improbably high as they like

Love the colours and textures in this fabric cuff bracelet *swoon*

Ah yes, the Baroque era. Everything about this photo calls to me. Just look at the detail on that wedding gown! Love the flowers too.

Love the richness of colour and the detail in this dress. And the necklace (you thought I'd skipped over the necklace didn't you? Not possible. Look how perfectly it matches the dress!)

The lovely Liv Tyler in "Lord of the Rings". Decadent costumes, anyone? Gorgeous. Would love to design jewellery for this.

The freshness of green and white. Nature sure knows how to do it right.

So, now that I've shared what's currently inspiring me - what's inspiring you and how do you file/note/keep track of your inspiration? Pictorial, notebooks, samples? Do share :)

Another Facebook Milestone...1500 Likers!

2011-03-23T19:37:00.001+13:00

GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED!

Thanks to everyone who entered!

The winner is....drum roll please....

ADELINE!

Congratulations Adeline! I will email you to get your delivery address now :)

I never in my wildest dreams thought I would reach 1500 likers on my Pallina Designs Facebook page - I'm so loving it! Thanks to everyone who has shouted about me from the rooftops, recommended me to their friends, commented on a post or photo, made a purchase, made an enquiry or just introduced yourself to me by leaving a post on my Facebook page - thank you, thank you, thank you! YOU are the reason I keep creating!

So, to celebrate you all and show my appreciation, I'm having another giveaway :)

This time, up for grabs is this beautiful peyote'd Swarovski rivolli pendant - beautiful green with flashes of pink and gold within, surrounded by green and pearly white Delica seed beads and 18in silver plated chain :) Little silver love-knot beneath the bail adds interest, too. Don't forget - all my pieces are One of a Kind and this pendant is no exception :)

Would you like to be in with a chance to win this gorgeous pendant? I'm happy to oblige! Pendant will be sent to you free of charge (courier within NZ or airmail if outside of NZ) - completely free, for you to enjoy with my heartiest thanks :)

TO ENTER:

All you have to do is leave a comment below, with your first name and email address.

ALL ENTRIES MUST HAVE AT LEAST THESE DETAILS IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE DRAW!

(Just makes it easier on me to try and contact you - I'm all about making things easy in these busy times!!). One entry per person, and the lovely 'puter over at Random.Org will pull out a lucky number for me (comments will be given a number rating in order of appearance).

The draw will remain open until midnight, NZ time, on Friday 25th March - plenty of time to get your name in there!

Thank you all SO MUCH - I so appreciate your support!

Now...get commenting - and tell your friends!

~A
xx

Girly Time

2011-01-31T19:35:00.000+13:00

We've had a blast, this past 5 days, with Sarah, Rhys and Amy's visit :) Managed to strike that great balance between chilling out and doing lots of stuff to keep the kids amused and (mostly) happy ;)

Here are a few snaps I thought I'd share with you. We were VERY lucky with the weather - had tropical cyclones bookending their stay with us, but we didn't let THAT stop us! We're made of stern stuff - and have plenty of Kiwi "Can Do!" attitude to fortify us!

We had a fantastic picnic lunch at Waihau Bay, watching the fishing boats come in with their loot

One of abovementioned fishing boats...just look at that sky! Gorgeous.

Amy and Georgia at Waihau Bay - like mermaids on the rocks :)

Random bay on the way back to Opotiki - the sea literally sparkled like diamonds. Just another day in Paradise!

See above :)

The lagoon we swam in to cool down. This was the second day we were there - the day after Cyclone Wilma hit. It was considerably clearer and shallower the first time we went, but I didn't have my camera then. Typical.

We're quite the multi-taskers out this way ;)

Georgia and I

Managed to squeeze in time at the playground, shopping, coffee, wine, girly gossip, coffee, wine, refereeing the kids (!), walk around the neighbourhood, Hikutaia Domain (for a spot of nature), coffee, dessert-making, bbqs, watching "Supernatural" reruns, abovementioned trip to Waihau Bay...did I mention coffee?

Thanks to Sarah, Rhys and Amy for a fantastic time! Miss you guys already! xx

We are having Technical Difficulties - please stand by...

2011-01-16T10:04:00.000+13:00

Hmmm. Apparently Feedburner isn't linking your subscriptions to my blog, so I'm just testing this to see if it'll work. If you receive this update by email PLEASE leave me a comment and let me know! Thanks!

I think I might phone the GeekLine and get them to put a hold on those hornrimmed glasses and pocket protector I ordered.

Nothing to see here folks. Moving right along...

~A

Taking Decent Jewellery Photos

2011-01-10T16:24:00.000+13:00

A few people have asked me how I get my photos for my website so clear. Well, it's pretty straightforward (and low-budget - I'm the Queen of DIY, remember!) so I thought I'd share with you :)

Here's my basic set-up:

You will need:

- a large piece (A2) of white cardboard ($2 from local stationers)
- 3 student lamps (low budget)
- 1 long arm, directional lamp (also low budget)
- 3 blue "daylight" bulbs (from hardware store - mine were from Bunnings)
- various household items to stack (I've used candles that also double as props sometimes...LOL)
- digital camera with manual white balance and macro function

OK, so first I taped the A2 piece of white card to the wall, and then curved it down onto the desktop and taped it in place there. That gives you a nice clear background. Depending on what I'm photographing, I sometimes use a cream background prop which shows up certain colours of beads better.

I then place my 3 student lamps - $10 each from the Warehouse - with daylight bulbs in them ($5 each from Bunnings) and one large lamp ($20 from Warehouse Stationery) that has a movable arm (for directional light from above) either side, to the front and above (moveable arm one).

I place the piece I'm photographing in the middle of it, and make sure the white balance on my camera is adjusted manually (the instructions for your camera should tell you how to do this - it just makes the background a clear, crisp white and not yellow or blue). Then I make sure that the macro is on (that's the little flower symbol on your camera that allows it focus on things close up), turn the flash OFF, and I don't use the zoom at all - just move camera closer if I need to.

My "tripod" is a selection of 2 different sizes of candles (which I can put on top of each other for a "top view" if need be).

I've used two types of light tents (the expensive store-bought one, and my own one - made with a frame and an old bedsheet), have photographed in natural daylight and many other things but this gives me the best result.

Don't forget to edit in whatever photo editing software you use (I just use the basic Windows Photo Gallery one) - crop the piece, adjust the brightness if it looks a little dark, and try to get as true-a-match to your piece as you can, colourwise. Add any text you want over the top of the piece too ;)

You should end up with something as clear as this:

Fairly straightforward huh? If you have any questions, please just ask - happy to help!

~A

I'm on a roll!

2011-01-09T02:00:00.001+13:00

So, 2011 is going well so far. I've just finished my second book of the year, Jodi Picoult's "The Pact".

Brief synopsis: Emily and Chris have known each other from literally the day they were born. They grew up together, their parents were friends, they lived next door to each other, and had been dating since they were 13 years old. So when Emily is found dead from a gunshot to the head at 17 and Chris is slumped unconscious over her body, his hand on the gun, what the hell went wrong? He says it was a suicide pact that went wrong but he ends up on trial for her murder and a tense courtroom drama is played out, with Emily and Chris's relationship told in a series of flashbacks.

I had started the book last year (pleading the fifth on which actual month that was...) but as usual, ran out of time and it has been languishing on my bedside table, subtly bookmarked at just a few pages in, ever since. I had to start it again, that's how long it's been.

It was fairly gripping. I've never read any of Jodi Picoult's novels before, but recently saw the movie "My Sisters Keeper" on TV and I know that was one of hers, which prompted me to continue reading this one. I wrote a novel myself last year, and it was based around a group of friends who were dealing with the aftermath of a suicide, so "The Pact" was kind of research for me. That I never finished. Ahem...

I was kinda teary in the end, I have to say. Got that old familiar feeling of the lump in the throat in parts. But no ACTUAL tears this time. That doesn't say anything about the book itself, I have to point out - merely a fact I'd like to point out to those who know me and say "oh yeah - but you cry at EVERYTHING!". I do not. So there.

Check it out if you like a love story intertwined with a tragedy, with a lot of courtroom drama thrown in - and a good deal of mystery too. Picoult leaves the reader in the dark about what truly happened at the crucial moment right to the very end.

Have to say - I like her style ;)

What is book number three for this year, I hear you ask? Well, I was going to try and finish Annie Proulx's "Fine Just the Way It Is" (a birthday gift from last year from Sarah). But something else has landed at my feet instead. Just waiting on it arriving, by email.

Pssst, Karen - I'm ready now ;)

And while we're on the subject of completed projects, I finished my first substantial piece of 2011 along the jewellery lines this week as well.

I've had this on my worktable since (pleading the fifth on this one too...moving right along...nothing to see here people...ahem) and am very happy with how it turned out, even though it's nothing like the (somewhat fluid, as it turns out) mental plan I had for it.

I had purchased this teal coloured lace motif awhile back and was in the midst of embroidering it with seed beads when I kind of got inundated with custom orders. Custom orders come first, so this was put aside. Then, I saw a gorgeous Peruzi cabachon that I had purchased, just sitting beside it on the workbench. I really do think it pays to leave things lying about on there and not put them away immediately, because look how perfect they are together?? I adore the colours :) In the next couple of days I'm going to add it to my Facebook page for sale, so keep an eye out if you're interested! In the meantime, a few pics to whet your appetite:

Yes, this year has started out very well indeed :)

~A

Hey! I'm readin' here!

2011-01-05T21:39:00.000+13:00

I don't make new years resolutions, as a rule - if I want to change something, then I change it. No new week, new month (or new year) needed. I'm a procrastinator, y'see, and if I see an excuse (like "I'll do that come Monday...") then I take advantage of myself. Sick, I know.

But this year, I've resolved to read more. I used to be a voracious reader, always had a book (or more) on the go. But over the past couple of years, as jewellery design and other crafty pursuits have demanded more and more of my time, the so-called elusive thing known as "spare time" has become just that - elusive. And my reading has pretty much gone down the gurgler as I try in vain to fit 28hrs into each 24hr period.

So, true to my inner resolve, I today finished my first book of 2011. OK, I started it in October 2010, but still. I read one chapter, but then left it. Then I picked it up about 4 days ago, and today it all came to an end. By the way, I'd just like to publically thank my friend Sarah for the recommendation - this is one book worth making time to read.

It's called "The Book Thief" and is by Australian author Markus Zusak.

It's different, as far as books go. Firstly, it's narrated by Death (as in, Death as an entity - he is a character in this book, and is omnipresent, as I guess Death really is). It's set in Nazi Germany and revolves around the life of The Book Thief (otherwise known as a little girl by the name of Liesel Meminger). You can click here for the official synopsis of the story.

Zusak's style of writing is beguiling. As somewhat of a writer myself (nowhere near in his league, but enough of one to realise what he is doing here and to appreciate his style and manner), I was impressed from the get-go. His use of imagery is enchanting - so very clever. And underneath (or is it on top?) of all this beautiful imagery and this tightly-woven and expertly told story, alive with characters who seem real, and human, and imperfect and so three-dimensional, is the fact that Hitler is there, in the background (and later, in the foreground) as Liesel's story is told. You know what's coming and you dread it. With every single page. But it doesn't stop you. Like a freight train, you barrel on through to the conclusion, holding your breath in some parts.

It still made me cry in the final pages, regardless.

If you love a good story, with heartwarmingly real characters (not perfect - real - there's a difference) and a slight historical feel, I highly recommend this one. I can see why it's a bestseller.

If you've already read The Book Thief, please let me know by leaving a comment. I'd love to hear your feedback too :)

~A

Thank you Santa!

2010-12-29T14:16:00.000+13:00

Wow, it's almost January - the beginning of whole new year, and indeed a whole new decade! Don't you just love new beginnings? I do.

2011 is promising to be a good year, I can tell that already. My hubby has a new venture planned, I'm currently on holiday from EVERYTHING (except housework, worse luck) and really feeling positive about the year to come. I can tell 2011 has big things in store for us all and I can't wait for them to reveal themselves :)

Even though January is not yet upon us, I just had to post about my latest NFT (New Favourite Thing) - my phone!!

The last time I physically purchased a mobile phone was about 15yrs ago. I kid you not. When I left NZ to go to the UK, I left my mobile phone behind and started a new adventure without one (hey, it was the late 90's and I was hardly the corporate up-and-comer - and I was about to start touring about the world - so what did I want/need with a mobile phone? For goodness sake, email was just becoming the "in thing" then!). Then, when we came back to NZ 9 years ago, I didn't really need one. 18months ago, we changed home phone providers, and part of the package was a "free" mobile phone. As it was what you might call "basic", my hubby kindly said I could have it. What a guy. It allowed me to text, make calls and take very bad photos. But little else.

Now, look what Santa bought me this year! *squeeeeeeeeee*

It's a Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Mini Pro - and I loooooove it! OK, I'm still working out how to drive it, but I have Facebook loaded onto it, I can surf the net (free for this month, part of the package that came with the phone), I have a 5mp camera, and a great video camera, a touch screen plus the QWERTY keyboard (which, to a typist like me, is a Godsend!) and I can store a heap of my photos and music on it - and did I mention it has FM radio?! I'm in heaven! I'll never be bored again! I know alot of you have probably had this for awhile, but this is all new to me and goshdarn it, I'm excited :D

If 2011 gets better than this, I'll be pretty chuffed, I can tell you.

~A

Another Giveaway and Yet Another Thank You...

2010-11-07T19:01:00.001+13:00

THIS DRAW IS NOW CLOSED!

Congrats to TRACEY REEDY!

Thanks to all who entered - your support is much appreciated :-)

I recently was very fortunate enough to amass over 1200 likers on my Facebook page...and was blown away by the level of support I've received since I started my page. Thank you to everyone who has shared my FB page, who has commented, who has shown support in any way - thank you, thank you, thank you!

So to celebrate this fantastic milestone, I'm holding yet another giveaway :) The piece I'm giving away this time features a gorgeous black and red rose cabachon that I have embellished with glass seed beads, then sewn black and red Swarovski crystals around it, and a further Swarovski crystal bling on the bottom. It is backed with felt and the edges are rope-stitched with tiny #14 seed beads. It hangs on a satin black cord, which will be finished to the lucky winner's required length :)

To be in to win this lovely, one-of-a-kind pendant, all you have to do is leave a comment below - INCLUDING YOUR NAME AND EMAIL ADDRESS!!. That's all :) I will leave the draw open until 9pm on Tuesday night, 9th November (NZ time). Good luck everyone, and thanks again for all your wonderful support!

~A

It's Giveaway Time Again!

2010-10-09T11:39:00.001+13:00

THIS GIVEAWAY DRAW IS NOW CLOSED!

Thanks everyone who entered!

The winner is...KARLEY JOHNS!

Congratulations Karley!!

Wow - thanks everyone! I just hit 1100 likers on my Facebook page - I'm gobsmacked yet again! Welcome to all my new Facebook likers - please don't be afraid to join in the discussion or say hi - would love to meet you :)

In celebration of this fantastic milestone, I wracked my brains to come up with a suitably gorgeous giveaway piece. This is the result - about 4 hours work on my part, adding crystals and Swarovski pearls, tonnes of seed beads and a gorgeous blue/green glass cabachon :) This pendant is all ready for you to add a chain or ribbon to and has that slight hint of olde worldy that I so love. (Just click on the pic to see a larger version...)

Care to enter your name into the draw? It's easy, promise! All you have to do is add a comment below, with your name and email address (must have BOTH to be in the draw, so I can contact you as soon as the draw is made!).

The draw will close at 9pm tomorrow night, that's NZ time folks. So it's open for 33hrs! Come on - enter now to be sure you're name is in the draw! Entries open worldwide - geography is no barrier, I will send it anywhere in the world to you for free!

Thanks to all my fantastic supporters - you guys rock! No seriously - you make me smile on a daily basis, your encouragement and feedback is invaluable! THANK YOU!!

Let the chaos begin :D

~A

Hitting another Facebook milestone!

2010-09-11T20:00:00.003+12:00

This draw is now closed - congratulations to
KAREN PEAK

whose comment was chosen by Random.Org!

Once again, the fans/likers on my Facebook fan page have blown me away...I have hit (and surpassed) 1000 fans! I'm gobsmacked! The Facebook network is indeed a mystery, but I'm loving the feedback, the support and the love shown to me by the Facebook community - I'm so humbled.

And, true to my word, I have another giveaway open to all :) This time, it's a beautiful handwired pink glass and green crystal pendant, using non-tarnish brass artistic wire. All ready for you to thread onto your favourite chain or ribbon :) This one features both gold and silver tonings, so hopefully something for all!

Just click on the pic below to get a larger view...

The rules remain the same - just post a comment below, with your NAME and your EMAIL ADDRESS (please note, I will remove any posts that don't have BOTH these details in them, just to be fair to all!) before 8pm on Monday night, 13th September (NZ time). So the giveaway is open for 48hrs.

Thanks so much to all of you - I love celebrating these milestones!

~A

New vid!

2010-09-11T19:52:00.001+12:00

Finally, with inspiration returning, chapter one of my newest story, "Redemption", is written and chapter two is swiftly following. One thing that really helps me with visualising characters, is a video. And even though it was a total mission to make this one (sooooo many movies/tv eps to sort through and cut clips from!), I'm really happy with it. It's helping, so that means it was worth it.

And for anyone interested - regarding the writers block thing - I have no idea what burst the dam. We were coming home from Whakatane after having taken a drive over to do a few things, and an idea just popped into my head. I worked away at it from there, adding dimension, plot ideas, characters, background stuff, and then suddenly I found I had something that was developed enough to have possibilities. I haven't sorted the entire plot yet (I've found it easier if I leave gaps I can fill when the time comes), but I'm excited about what I have so far - plenty of twists and turns to come.

Anyway, here's the vid...enjoy :)

~A

I love playing Santa!

2010-09-07T20:04:00.000+12:00

Thanks SO much to everyone who's entered my latest giveaway, to celebrate 900 likers on my Facebook page! I appreciate all your lovely comments (and poems LOL!) - fantastic!

But, alas, there could only be one winner, and according to Random.org, that winner is....

OLIVIA HONEYFIELD

CONGRATULATIONS Olivia!!!!!!

I will be emailing you shortly to get your delivery address - I hope you get alot of joy from this pendant :)

Another giveaway coming soon - yay!!!

~A

900 Facebook Likers - WOW!

2010-09-05T20:56:00.001+12:00

UPDATE: This giveaway is now closed! Congrats to OLIVIA HONEYFIELD!

I'm gobsmacked at how quickly the number of likers on my Facebook page is growing...wowsa!! Thanks to everyone who has recommended my page to friends and family who might be interested - this networking thing is blowing me away!

So, true to my word, I'm having another giveaway right here, to celebrate a new milestone :) Up for grabs this time is this beautiful Swarovski crystal and paua (abalone) hand-stitched pendant, on green corded necklace. The purple, peacock (blue/grey/green) and green colours in this pendant are just stunning together - and the Swarovski's sparkle like mad!

If you fancy winning this necklace, all you have to do is leave a comment below with your NAME AND EMAIL ADDRESS and I will do the draw in 48hrs time - that's 9pm Tuesday night, 7th September, NZ time. Good luck everyone!!

And THANK YOU again - you all rock!

~A

PS: Writer's block is gone, for anyone curious LOL! I have a new idea, and I'm running with it this time - hope to start writing in the next day or so - yay!!! x

Writers Block Sucks

2010-08-29T23:44:00.000+12:00

Argh! I'm so frustrated right now!

I finished my second novel-length work of fiction, "Anniversary" just over a month ago. It was quite an achievement - 90,682 words, to be precise - and I'm actually really proud of it. I don't say that often. I mean, there's always someone more talented than you, who's just better at things than you are, isn't there? It doesn't pay to blow one's own trumpet too loud, so I've kept this achievement quiet - just something for me to smile about in the wee small hours.

It's a lot shorter than my previous story, "Tides of Change", which was 184,000 words, or thereabouts. And unlike "Tides of Change", I didn't have the instant urge to spend the next three weeks going back over the first half of the story and re-reading and changing it. In fact, since I finished "Anniversary", I have re-read it only once (last week) and didn't have the urge to change a single thing - unheard of, for me.

So, the problem isn't lack of achievement.

I guess it's lack of inspiration.

Ever since I finished writing it, I've basically thrown myself into my beading, in the hope that some down time would free up my muse and allow me to deal with other thoughts and ideas that may pop into my head. In theory, that was a great idea - and I've had a ball playing with beads while allowing my brain some time to chill out :)

The only problem is, it's been a month now and I got nothin'. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Not one spark of inspiration has ignited.

I'm wondering if this is all I had in me - two stories? It's maddening as hell! Whereas I went right into "Anniversary" within a few weeks of finishing "Tides of Change", this time it's like the well is dry.

I've watched movies, I've read a book (and half read a couple of others), I've beaded till my eyes nearly fell out of my head - it's not for lack of trying! I've had and discarded several scenarios but nothing really fires me up.

In the past, when I've had writers block, something has always come to me. It never lasted long. I can't even write a short one-shot relating to either of my finished stories! Now that is serious. I've written, in some form or another, since I was about 11 years old. I used to hide excercise books full of stories under my mattress.

I'm really not sure what else to do. I guess I'll just have to wait *sigh*.

It's so frustrating! So in the meantime, I'll just continue to throw myself into my beading, watch movies, listen to music, get a few early nights...and wait.

What do you do when you get blocked, creatively? Anyone have any suggestions?

~A

We have a Winner!

2010-08-27T20:04:00.000+12:00

Yay! Congrats DEB! The beautiful pendant is now all yours!

Thanks so much to all who entered - only 80 more likers to get, then I can hold another giveaway :)

Thanks to everyone who's helped me spread the word - I am soooooo grateful!

~A

New Giveaway to Celebrate 800 Facebook Likers!

2010-08-25T20:08:00.001+12:00

Wow - you've done it again! Thanks to everyone who's been spreading the word about my Facebook page - I really appreciate your support!

And to celebrate hitting another milestone, here's the gorgeous choker I'm giving away this time around...

A beautiful choker made with Swarovski crystals and pearls and non-tarnish artistic wire surrounding two beautiful beads of microfaceted Agate in the most beautiful shade of fuschia pink. The pendant is strung on a satiny smooth black cord with a silver clasp. Simple yet elegant! *Click on the picture above to see the larger version ;)

If you want to see how great this pendant looks on YOU, all you have to do is leave your name and email address in a comment below :) I will do the draw in 48hrs time, on a random basis - so that's 8pm Friday night, 27th August, NZ time.

Thanks so much to you all for your support - I really appreciate it! And good luck in the draw!!

~A

Congratulations Jennifer!

2010-08-13T23:13:00.000+12:00

Yay! Congrats JENNIFER from Fluente Designs! These gorgeous earrings are now all yours!

Thanks so much to all who entered - only 63 more likers to get, then I can hold another giveaway :)

Thanks for spreading the word - I am very grateful!

~A

Woohoo! 700 Fans on Facebook!

2010-08-11T23:32:00.001+12:00

Thanks to ALL of you who've supported me on Facebook by recommending me to your family and friends - it truly is humbling. Where did you all come from?!

Anyway, thank you...seriously - THANK YOU.

To celebrate, here's the latest giveaway - a pair of gorgeous Cubic Zirconia and Swarovski pearl earrings with lovely antique bronze accents...

Same rules apply - just leave me a comment below with your NAME and your EMAIL ADDRESS (must have both, please!) and you're in the draw! I will draw a name out randomly in 47.5hrs...LOL!...that's 11pm Friday night, 13th August (NZ time) - definately NOT a "Black Friday" for someone!

Thanks to everyone for their support - you guys never cease to amaze me :-) And good luck!!

~A
xx

Congratulations Demelza!

2010-08-04T21:19:00.000+12:00

Thanks so much for all your entries - that was fun (again!). I used www.random.org to draw a winner and comment #3 popped up...and that's you DEMELZA GEORGE-FRANZMAYR!

I will contact you shortly to get your delivery address :D

Only another 73 "likers" to get before our next giveaway - hope you'll help out by joining us on Facebook and recommending your friends and family do the same :)

Thanks everyone!

~A

Oh My Goodness...600 Likers Already!

2010-08-02T22:00:00.000+12:00

Well, I must say...this one kinda caught me on the hop! I had no idea I'd hit 600 likers so soon on my Facebook page...so thank you all! That's fantastic!

And as promised, I'm having another giveaway - spent today making this gorgeous pendant with a piece of smooth Bronzite (absolutely gorgeous - the camera doesn't pick it up, but it has beautiful honeycomb chips throughout - stunning!), surrounded by glass seed beads in caramel and bronze (with a hint of pale lilac to lift it) and with a border of Swarovski pearls in gold and white and Smoky Quartz. The touches of antiqued brass just add to it's beauty :) It is backed with felt for comfort and protection. This pendant comes with an antique brass chain (not shown) that will be adjusted for the new owner so the length is juuuuuuust right ;)

As before, all you have to do to be in the draw to win this lush pendant is to leave a comment below with your NAME and EMAIL ADDRESS in it :) That's it! The competition is open until 9pm Wednesday 4th August (NZ time). That's 47 hours from now, people!

Thank you all so much...I'm just in awe at how all you lovely Facebook likers have spread the word - you're incredible!

Now...get entering ;)

~A

Congratulations Lillybeth!

2010-07-30T22:32:00.000+12:00

Thanks to everyone who entered the giveaway for the gorgeous one-off lampwork and wire pendant :D I will be running another giveaway when I reach 600 'likers' on Facebook!

I used www.random.org to choose a comment number and it chose number 21 which means...this lovely pendant was won by Lillybeth Melmoth - congrats, Lillybeth! Your pendant will be winging it's way to you on Monday ;)

Have a great weekend everyone!

~A

The Half-Century Giveaway!

2010-07-28T21:08:00.000+12:00

I'm speechless...and my friends and family will tell you that doesn't happen often!

THANK YOU to my lovely Facebook fans - love you guys! Your support has been overwhelming! You helped me to reach a milestone - 500 fans! - by recommending my page to your family and friends, and that just blows me away :) There really aren't enough words...

So how about I just give you pictures instead?

I made this pendant ESPECIALLY to celebrate reaching this milestone - a gorgeous deep red and gold lampwork glass bead with hints of green, blue and pale lilac, that I wire-wrapped using non-tarnish antique gold artistic wire, entrapping teeny 4mm gold and white Swarovski pearls plus sparkling clear Swarovski crystals :) Comes with an antique gold-look chain (shown), that I will tailor to the winner's required length.

The pendant is dinky - including the bail, it measures 4cm long (1 1/2in).

Do you want this beautiful, one-of-kind pendant for yourself? Or perhaps as a gift for a friend! It's easy! All you have to do is leave a comment on this post (below) with your name (just your first name is fine) and your email address so I can contact you if you win :)

That's it! Easy!

I will use "The Hat" to draw out a random winner from all the comments, so it's all fair and unbiased, like ;)

I will even keep the competition open for 48hours! That's right, leave a comment before 9pm on Friday 30th July (NZ time) and this beautiful pendant could be YOURS!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU...you guys blow me away with your support :D

~ A

Beadhive Diva Challenge

2010-07-18T17:18:00.000+12:00

Gosh...sorry, poor neglected blog :( It's been awhile hasn't it? It's been crazy around here lately - visitors, the annual Pallina Designs sale, competition pieces, custom orders...the list is endless!

So, firstly, here's the pic of my Beadhive Diva's challenge piece - entitled "Starry Night" after the Van Gogh painting ;) We were sent 40 small pearl oats (ovals) and had to incorporate them into a necklace, bracelet or brooch with the theme "Little Black Dress". To see all challenge entries, go here. My "Starry Night" is below...incorporating the pearls, seed beads, Swarovski crystals, a paua (abalone) cabachon, sterling silver wire and componentry and Amazonite nuggets :) (Click on the pics to see a larger view!).

Thanks to June for organising this challenge - I thoroughly enjoyed it!

~A

Lake Waikeremoana

2010-06-16T10:05:00.000+12:00

The time has just flown by lately hasn't it? I just realised I haven't posted my pics from our trip to Lake Waikeremoana a couple of weekends back...eek! Here's a brief rundown to accompany them...

We went to Lake Waikeremoana (around a 4 hour drive from here) over Queens Birthday Weekend (so we had an extra day - it was a Monday holiday) with some friends. Basically, it was to celebrate my hubby's birthday, but really it was just an excuse to get away for a weekend with friends :)

What a great place! I'd been there once before, to do the Great Walk (a 5 day trek that takes you halfway around the lake) when I was 15, but had never been back since, so I was really looking forward to it :)

Also? The story that I'm writing (the one I've posted vids for previously) is called "Anniversary" and is based around a trip to a lakehouse by a group of friends, so I kinda thought it might be inspirational :) It was as different to my story as you could get - but in a good way LOL!

The weather wasn't too co-operative, I have to say, but we didn't really let that stop us :) Went for a walk part way up the Great Walk track for an hour and a half on Sunday morning with the kids and it was fantastic! My only regret is that it was too wet to take the camera, but that didn't stop us from enjoying ourselves at all! Just stopped me from taking pics, which is a shame. But never mind - next time we go (and there WILL be a next time), we'll probably go in the summertime, so we can take pics then.

We stayed in a bach in Onepoto Village, at the start of the Great Walk. Onepoto Village is basically just a hamlet of about 40 houses (no shops or anything - just like an oasis in the bush, really!). It was gorgeous - I loved it! It's not the sort of place you go for a spot of shopping (it's literally in the middle of nowhere!) but it is GORGEOUS! We had a blast - really back to basics - enjoying nature, no TV, no cellphone coverage, no internet - we made our own fun :) It really reminded me of holidays we took when I was a child - I loved it then, and I still do!

We stayed here, in Lou Dolman's bach. It was small but perfectly adequate for the 8 of us (I know - but trust me, we were cosy and comfy and we had FUN!!!). We took a heap of food with us - and secretly wished the road would be closed on the Monday when we were due to leave, just so we could stay longer (we had enough food for another week LOL!).

We spent the days chilling out, the boys went fishing, we went walking, the girls spent abit of time beading (and reading), and there was alot of card-playing hehe :) All in all, a fantastic time had by all, and we can't wait to go back!

Standing on the Mokau Bridge (photo of Mokau Falls below further)

Mokau Falls (the first photo I took was standing on the bridge you see here)

And this was the state of our car on Sunday....! The roads are pretty rugged and it was very wet....!

It was a fantastic weekend, and as I said, we're really looking forward to going back in the summertime :) Totally recommend it, if you are ever over this way!

I worked quite abit on my "step by step" bracelet project and have been working on it ever since, when time allows (it's taken about 12-13 hours to get this far). Here's an update pic (click on it to make it larger):

Now...stay tuned for another blog post in the next day or so, on my NFT (new favourite thing!).

Thank you and Congratulations!

2010-06-08T00:34:00.000+12:00

Thank you, everyone who entered my giveaway! I'm excited to announce that Paula won the beautiful pendant, and once I have a preferred length (for the necklace) and an address, I shall be sending it out to her :)

That was so much fun - have to do it again later this month, so stay tuned!

THANKS again and CONGRATS Paula!

~A

"Lucky 200" Facebook Giveaway!

2010-06-03T16:47:00.000+12:00

To all my lovely, loyal and absolutely-appreciated Facebook "likers" - THANK YOU!!!

I put out a call to you all to help me reach 200 fans so I could hold another giveaway, and boy...I was amazed at the result! Over 70 new "likers" in one night!

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

A fantastic result - and welcome to all my new "likers" - fantastic to have you on board, I hope you'll all be regular visitors to my Facebook page :)

I was so awestruck by the level of support received, I decided to make something especially for the contest - something REALLY special ;) And this is what I spent a couple of hours creating for you all, last night...

A gorgeous, handsewn pendant featuring top quality glass Delica seed beads, beautiful Malachite chips, a lovely antique-style silver button and a single faceted teardrop of Cubic Zirconia :) And yes - it's in my fave combination of green and purple...! I just love the antique yet modern twist of this pendant and it's been backed in felt to ensure it's nice and soft against your skin :) The decorative barrel hanger is soooo pretty, and I will adjust the satin cording to the length that the lucky winner would prefer ;)

Interested in going into the draw to win this beautiful, one-of-a-kind pendant?

It's easy!

Just leave a comment below, with your email address and your name (I'm sorry - if you haven't left your name and email address, I won't be able to consider you - you need to put it in the BODY OF THE COMMENT - particularly so for "anonymous" sign-ins!), and I will do the draw at midnight (NZ time) on Monday 7th June. If your name is randomly drawn, it's all YOURS!

So what are you waiting for??

And thank you all - so much - you made my day (hell, you made my week!!).

Mwah!

Picspam for May

2010-05-30T12:09:00.001+12:00

Wow, is it the 30th of May already? Another month has flown by - I really must make an effort to make my blog entries more frequent...this one is abit of a picspam - sorry about that!

I spent approximately 7 hours peyoting and attaching Cubic Zirconia teardrops, Swarovski crystals and lucite flowers to the front of this gorgeous bracelet and I'm VERY happy with it! It's light as a feather to wear (you'd never know it was made of all glass beads!), and the magnetic slide clasp is SUPER easy to use (my new favourite clasp!). It was my own little rebellion against the awful winter weather we'd been having...bring on springtime, I say!

And this pendant I remade for myself yesterday...I'd had the gorgeous Citrine nugget for at least two years, and I really needed something to wear with my purple top, so yesterday afternoon I thought I'd remodel this from it's former reincarnation into this lovely but simple pendant. The purple Swarovski crystal ties it in with my purple top perfectly and I love it :)

The other thing I thought I'd document for my blog (for anyone who's interested!) is the making of a handsewn cuff. Step one for this type of bracelet, is to glue your pieces onto a stiff interfacing backing. I use E6000 glue and in this instance, have chosen to use porcelain pieces but have used buttons in the past (you can use cabachons or coins, or basically anything with a flat back that allows it to be glued). Anyway, here is step 1...the next step is to begin embellishing it with beads, and I'll show you my progress as I go ;)

The other thing that I've been up to lately is more writing. My story "Anniversary" is really coming along (I'm about to start chapter 11). Particular thanks go out to Tara, Lisa, Paula and Sarah for all their great feedback - thanks guys! I rely on you so much for your honesty and am really lucky, I know *BIG HUGS*

Hopefully, this weekend I can start chapter 11 and not let you all down...! In the meantime though, I've taken time out (lost track of the number of hours it took me to put this video together!!) and made a vid to keep you all enthused :) And me - hopefully it will kick-start my muse! Anyway, here it is - I've used one of my fave Counting Crows songs ("Black and Blue") because the emotions seem to be about right and I love the pace of the song, it fits so well! It's mainly from Max's POV. Enjoy :)

Before I go, don't forget to check out my Facebook page and become a "liker" if you aren't already! And please spread the word! When we get to 200 'likers' on the page, I'm holding another giveaway, open to all 'likers' - and we're only 8 'likers' away from the 200-mark! Yay!

Well, I have some time to myself today, so I'm going off to use it wisely ;)

~A

Happy Mothers Day!

2010-05-09T18:40:00.000+12:00

Hope all you Mum's out there had a great day today!

I was woken up with breakfast in bed (on a tray, no less!) and these gorgeous handmade baskets and cards from the kids (my super-talented Mum helped them make them yesterday - luv you Mum!!). They are just beautiful and will go on display in my studio as of tomorrow :)

I made Mum this bracelet for Mothers Day - in all her favourite colours :) I hand-sewed the beads - one for each of her 5 grandchildren - there are 3 dangling hearts from the clasp, the larger one represents her Mum (my darling Nan) and the two smaller ones are my sister and I :)

And now, I'm off to have some lovely homemade soup that hubby whipped up - been smelling it all day and my mouth is officially watering ;)

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

~A

Interview with Handmade Jewelry Club

2010-04-26T20:25:00.000+12:00

Wow, the week just flew by, didn't it?

I had a great time watching the suggestions flow in for the competition - and thanks to EVERYONE who submitted a suggestion, they were all fantastic, it was REALLY hard to choose just one! But in the end, I did...and it was Mel's suggestion of "Glacial Dream" :) The earrings will be on their way to you shortly Mel and I can FINALLY list that gorgeous necklace, now that it has a name!

We had a rush overnight trip to Auckland and on the way home, we visited the Hamilton Gardens. Wow...what a place to visit! Just beautiful! Here are just a few pics we took while we were there (and yep, we're definately going back to see more!):

And to round out the week, I found out today that my interview with the lovely Jane from Handmade Jewelry Club was published - so exciting! Was absolutely thrilled to read the wonderful comments she made on my jewellery - thanks so much Jane!

To read the interview, click here :)

Wow...what a week indeed!

~A

Competition Time!

2010-04-18T19:26:00.000+12:00

A huge thanks to everyone who has joined my fan page on Facebook - I've been absolutely overwhelmed by the support - you all made my week!

To celebrate, I thought I'd run a wee competition :)

It's open to all...but I need two things from you first (you knew there'd be a catch didn't you?! LOL).

Firstly, to enter, you need to give me your BEST suggestion for a name for this delicious necklace:

Abit about the necklace, in case it helps: it's created with a glass cabachon (ie: no hole) and it uses Amazonite nuggets, freshwater pearls and crystals.

The second thing I need from you is that you leave the suggestion for me as well as a means to contact you if you win (ie: email address) in the comments box below.

Easy huh?

Only a couple of conditions of entry...firstly, only one entry per person (so make sure you leave me your BEST suggestion). Secondly, the competition will be open until midnight next Sunday night, 25th April 2010, NZ time). All you need to do is leave me a comment below, giving me your suggestion and your email address. I'll choose my favourite name on Monday 26th April and advise the winner by email.

Lastly - the best part - look what you win!! These beautiful Smoky Quartz and Swarovski crystal earrings, on self-closing white gold plated earhooks :)

So, get your thinking caps on and let's hear those suggestions!

Good luck!

~A

Well, Hellooooooo Facebook

2010-04-12T21:56:00.000+12:00

I finally got around to creating a Facebook fan page today - at long last...

I've had a personal Facebook page for a long time now, and always meant to create a Pallina Designs fan page but there was always something else that took priority. However, this afternoon, while I was supping on a mug of Green Tea (would rather it had been a Vanilla Latte but there you go - trying new things lately - go me!), I decided to just go for it and see what happened.

I'm so not a career planner. Can you tell?

Anyway, it's done! Complete with pics, fans and everything!

So please feel free to become a fan and help me spread the word!

Pallina Designs

Love you guys :)

~ A

Aarrgh! Who Stole March?!

2010-04-06T17:26:00.001+12:00

Where the heck did March go? Anyone? Own up if you stole it because it was here a moment ago, I'm sure of it!

Soooo not happy about this! April already? Daylight saving has ended, winter is on it's way...definately today anyway, it's freezing here! I'm gonna have to go hunt out my slippers shortly. I'm sure they're buried at the bottom of my wardrobe somewhere, if I look under all my summer slides and slip-on's...

So, what've I been up to lately? Well, doing alot of writing, for one thing. And playing about with stamps and fabric (that's been fun!). A wee bit of jewellery making too ;)

Here are a couple of my newest pieces, which I'll be putting onto my website as soon as I get a minute...

I'm still working on my latest story, "Anniversary". It's coming along rather well, I'm happy to say. Have received some great feedback for it, which bolsters me no end :D

I also have to showcase the talents of my very clever friend Christie :) She made me the most beautiful wallpaper to go with my story "Tides of Change", and I am soooo in love with it! Thanks Christie! You rock!! *HUGS*

(You can also check out Christie's awesome website - http://www.layout-whore.net/ - she is one talented bunny - and she knows her way around Photoshop too *wink*).

Here's the awesome wallpaper that currently graces my laptop...click on the image to see the full size shot in all it's glory!

I love seeing Jensen Ackles and Liv Tyler together (they would be SO smokin' on the big screen!), love the clock (representing the lost years) and LOVE the quote! "What If" indeed...

Am feeling really lucky to have such generous, talented friends right about now ;)

~A

Anniversary

2010-03-16T23:25:00.003+13:00

Nope, not a wedding anniversary this time :)

This time, I'm referring to the next project on my creative horizon: "Anniversary" (the story). I finally finished my new vid - a kind of preview to the story, which is still in the planning stages. Having finished my "Tides of Change" rewrite a few weeks ago (woot woot!) I've been waiting for inspiration to strike as to what my next project might be.

In the meantime, I decided to fool about with a new video, and see what came out of it. And this is the result: a new vid and a new idea :) Gotta love the way the creative process works ;)

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

The song is "Firefly" by great NZ band, Atlas. Love this song! I first heard it on NZ iconic TV series "Outrageous Fortune" (which I'm totally addicted to - it's brilliant!) and have been itching to use it in a vid ever since. I love promoting NZ music!

I've also been busy with a couple of custom orders, which I'm nearly finished and ready to share...patience in all things :)

~A

Porcelain Goodness

2010-03-02T16:21:00.003+13:00

Some months ago, the lovely Alma approached me to find out if I could make her a bracelet if she sent me some porcelain mosaic pieces to use in it. Of course, I jumped at the chance - particularly since (in leiu of payment) we'd be doing a "craft swap": I made her the bracelet and she'd pay me in extra porcelain pieces (which I'd been trying to get hold of for awhile).

Perfect!

Anyway, due to one thing or another (Alma got busy before Christmas and the porcelain pieces weren't sent to me until just before Christmas - my busiest time, then my car accident and work etc got complex...anyway...as I was saying...) I've only just finished the bracelet for her.

Luckily, she loves it and forgives me for being so tardy ;)

Thanks again Alma! I love my porcelain goodness and can't wait to have a play with everything!

I soldered each peice of porcelain and then hammered pieces of 18g non tarnish silver artistic wire to create each joiner, gluing it to the back of each piece. I love the delicate yet modern look of it - the flowers contrast nicely with the silver-soldered edges (I used lead-free solder, by the way).

And if anyone's wondering how best to clean soldered items (because they DO tarnish when exposed to the air) - use regular car polish (not wax) and a soft cloth - brings that silver back to "good-as-new" condition in about 2-3 minutes :) Another good tip is to keep them in a zip-lock bag when not wearing them, so you don't have to clean them so often ;)

Cross Stitching

2010-02-17T21:21:00.005+13:00

I've been bitten by the cross-stitch bug...again.

About 13 years ago, I picked up my first cross-stitch kit and taught myself how to stitch. In fact, here's one of my first cross stitch's right here:

Since then, I've tackled many patterns, most of them destined to be special gifts for friends and family. I've kept a few for myself though:

I purchased the pattern for this Celtic cross in Cardiff, Wales in 1998. It took me 3 years to complete (I even took it away on my camping honeymoon in 1999 to work on it!).

I made this to show off all the badges I collected on my European travels in 1997. It hangs on the wall in my studio.

I made this for my Nan, for her birthday. When she died, it was one of the few things I kept of hers. It used to hang on the wall in her living room, along with a piece of dried Heather, collected by my Mum at Culloden, Scotland and framed.

This is the cross-stitch sampler I made for Georgia when she was a baby:

This is the last cross stitch I made. It's my Mum's because she loves Christmas so much :) It took me all year to make and I got it finished and framed just in time for Christmas, a couple of years back.

I'm currently trying to assemble the supplies I'll need to conquer this beautiful piece - a companion piece to my Celtic cross. I'll be posting progress pics to keep me motivated...!

Watch this space...!

Supernatural vid - my first!

2010-02-11T09:43:00.001+13:00

I just HAD to make a Supernatural vid - just to show how much I love this show :) Alot of my fave comedy moments and all my fave characters (well, most of them...3 mins 20 secs just isn't long enough to show EVERYTHING!).

For Sarah, who's so impatient LOL!

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

~A

Masterclass with Sheryl Sefton

2010-02-09T00:02:00.005+13:00

My friend Sheryl has been here in Opotiki for the last week - yay! This afternoon, she spent some time showing Mum and I how to make her lovely "blooms" - beautifully layered organza, tulle and beaded brooches :)

We had such a great afternoon! Burning fabric with a heat gun is BIG TIME FUN!

Here are the two I made for myself - will definately be making more - I love the vintage look of them, and love how the different fabrics reacted to heat...incredibly addictive!

And here's how they'll look when worn:

To see more of Sheryl's amazing artwork, check out her website! She's in the middle of revamping it though, so make sure you check back regularly ;)

I've been Tango'd...

2010-02-06T22:43:00.003+13:00

So, the other day, this gorgeous little stray ginger and white kitten turned up on our doorstep. The kids had fun playing with it and it seemed happy to stay...hubby popped down and bought some kitty litter, kitten food, flea collar and a couple of toys from the supermarket, and voila...

Yeah. I think I've been played.

We called her (well, we THINK it's a "her") "Tango". If you're familiar, Tango is a soda drink available in the UK (like NZ's "Fanta"). It's orange (ha!). The Tango ads used to crack me up - case in point:

And here is OUR "Tango"...yep, another redhead - we're outnumbering the "others" now :D

And yes...she's pretty much taken over the house already ;)

~A

I Gotta Feeling

2010-01-29T15:32:00.005+13:00

What a week - busy busy! But, true to the promise I made myself of updating weekly, I'm updating today - with a few funnies and some pics :)

I've just realised that I forgot to post the pics of the last custom bridal order I made - duh! So here it is (good luck on your big day, Kathryn!). There were also 3 bridesmaids necklaces, but this is the necklace I'm most proud of - the brides:

Also, another couple of custom orders I haven't yet posted - one is a custom order, the other was a gift :) Both soldered art glass pendants:

Will definately be exploring more of those in the future, the little mini-collages were such fun to make (but fiddly...had to resort to tweezers to place the tiny text on the background images!).

I made a video for my last story, a one-shot called "A Different Ballgame" (which is a companion piece - kind of like a prequel - to my "Tides of Change" story) last night too, which I'm really happy with:

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

AND, to finish off - and seeing that it's what's known among my friends as "Supernatural Friday" today (as in, Supernatural is shown online today, NZ time!), here's a great vid I found recently that I just LOVE! It uses one of my favourite Black Eyed Peas songs, "I Gotta Feeling" - every single time I watch it, it makes me smile!

Enjoy! And, for those of you who are lucky enough to get Monday off work because of Anniversary Day (Auckland's), have a great day! The kids are back to school on Tuesday...I'm gonna be ironing uniforms and checking that they haven't grown out of their shoes over the summer ;)

~A

Vids and new stuff

2010-01-21T16:05:00.003+13:00

I mentioned in my last blog post that I'd finally finished my "Tides of Change" story that I'd been writing - woohoo! That said - I'm not 100% happy with it. I rewrote the first chapter (the benefit of hindsight!) and now need to rewrite the next few before I'm totally happy with it, but I'm not giving up. Definately easier to rewrite it now that I know how it ends LOL!

I made a couple of video's for it at the end of December as well. The first one took FOREVER (as in, about 3 days and I'm-too-scared-to-count-how-many hours), and the second one just seemed to flow straight afterwards...I have no idea how the creative process works...if you figure it out, let me know ;)

Anyway, here are the last two vids:

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

I've also been busy with a custom bridal order - this necklace is one of two, created with dark and light grey Swarovski pearls and silver/clear Swarovski crystals:

Such a great experience - I love custom orders! So satisfying =)

Happy New Year!

2010-01-17T18:15:00.003+13:00

Happy new year everyone!

I'm kinda embarrassed that I haven't updated my blog since the end of November - but December was just sooooo busy! Between orders, Christmas preparations and the usual end-of-year stuff (at work and school), things kinda got out of control for abit there :)

But, back on track now, and raring to go!

Christmas and New Years was fantastic - we had a great time! We stayed home this year, but were lucky enough to have several lots of houseguests come to us, which was fantastic fun :) Thanks to Stu & Kathryn, Verna and Vic, Aaron & Georgia for keeping us amused during that time LOL!

BBQ's galore, a wee bit of drinking and alot of fun with our new Wii, meant there was never a dull moment. And we've been lucky enough to have GORGEOUS weather pretty much for the last month!

So what else has been going on? Well, I finally finished the story I was writing (although am in the process of editing it at the moment - and have started another one...which was NOT the plan, but what can I say: I'm hooked!). I've been busy making new items for the website (CLICK HERE to go straight to the site and have a peek - only uploaded them this morning), and have been recuperating from a car accident we had last Saturday night in Auckland, while on our way to my cousin's 21st :(

We (my folks, my hubby and I) were lucky to walk away from this:

Of course, the car's a write-off, but we're getting a new one (no thanks to our insurance company, which gave us the runaround big time - grrrrr!). Hopefully it'll be here this week. Cannot stress enough to ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEATBELT! Believe it or not, all four of us walked away with only bumps and bruises. Everyone - including us - was amazed! Please please PLEASE - make sure you and your loved ones wear your seatbelts!

Hope everyone is having a great 2010 so far - promise to update again soon :)

Pearl Jam = Made of Awesome!

2009-11-30T21:23:00.004+13:00

We went up to Auckland on Friday 27 November to see Pearl Jam play - first time in NZ for 11 years! And wow...words just don't seem to be able to describe how amazing this gig was!

The weekend was incredible - we crammed in heaps, and it was possibly one of those "once in a lifetime" weekends...it certainly would take alot of topping :D

But rather than rave on and on about how fantastic it was, here's a couple of videos that I took at the gig, and a few of my favourite photos...

"BLACK" - my favourite Pearl Jam song (well, one of them!) - the banner passed up to Eddie at the end of the song reads "Please play Black!" :)

"BETTERMAN" - this is just the beginning - it was so awesome to be amongst a 32,000-strong crowd, serenading Eddie Vedder with his own song :D He actually said during the concert that "we had a discussion backstage just now, and it won't be 11 years before we come back" - so I'm guessing they thought it went as well as we did :D

A few pics from the gig...

Now...I just have to figure out how to come down from this high :D

Sale Time!

2009-11-19T17:27:00.004+13:00

I'm all excited about Christmas coming up (I know - crazy!) so I've decided to have a sale on my website - all bracelets and necklaces are 25% off between now and Wednesday 25 November so click on the banner above to go check them out and grab a pre-Christmas bargain!!

:D

~Amanda

Busy November!

2009-11-15T21:14:00.006+13:00

Gosh, these past few week's have flown by - it'll be Christmas before we know it! I've got an offical countdown happening here - less than 2 weeks before the Pearl Jam gig and I can't wait!!

In the meantime, apart from crossing days off the calendar, I've been busy with custom orders, enquiries and trying to get my Christmas list sorted out (don't ask...not going well! Although I have managed to buy some Christmas cards!).

Also been busy in the garden, which is now looking fantastic, thanks to a few full-on weekends out there (and some aches and pains to boot!). Totally worth it though :)

Have been having abit of fun looking at www.regretsy.com lately - man, that site is hysterical!! (Don't follow the link if a wee bit of bad language offends..!). A site set up to show some of the extremely dodgy "handmade" stuff put up for sale at www.Etsy.com. Definately good for a laugh!

I've also been going to embroidery meetings lately, which has been fun! Once a week we get together, and after only two lessons, I've learnt so much and am really enjoying it! It's a lot more freeform than cross-stitch, which I've been doing for years, so it appeals alot. Can't wait to use it on some goodies for the website!

Right, back to the grind...here's some Pearl Jam to get me even more hyped for the gig in 11 days....! This is the MTV Unplugged version of "Black", one of my favourite Pearl Jam songs of all time :)

Trolley Derby time!

2009-11-04T11:06:00.003+13:00

Been busy with custom orders lately, researching and making them :)

This weekend we have friends coming to stay, and on Saturday is the annual Trolley Derby down Crooked Road - can't wait! Not strictly for the kids, this derby...and lots of fun!

Here's some footage from last year's derby...!

Inspiration Station now launched!

2009-10-20T22:51:00.005+13:00

You might remember back in July, I introduced you to my friend Karley, a collage artist from Wellington, NZ.

Karley's just launched her brand new website, showcasing her fantastic work, which includes not only collage pieces but also cross-stitch and poetry (yep, she's one talented bunny!).

Click on the pic below (one of Karley's gorgeous collages) to go right over to her site, "Inspiration Station" to have a peek :)

And don't forget to leave her a comment and let her know if you like what you see! Us artistes are always happy to hear from folk who admire our work!

Giggle time!

2009-10-18T21:36:00.003+13:00

This vid was posted on Jim Beaver's Facebook page and it just cracked me up! (Jim Beaver plays Bobby on "Supernatural" if you didn't know that...not that's it's important...just thought you might want to know LOL!).

I CANNOT watch this vid without laughing, so beware if you're watching this with others around...and enjoy!

~A

New stuff

2009-10-18T01:11:00.003+13:00

I finally found time this week to not only create some new jewellery, but to upload it onto the website :) Been doing a few alterations, custom orders and the like this week, so it was abit hectic, but once the creativity flowed, it was fun to experiment :)

Here's a sample of the new pieces on the website (just click the pics to take you straight to their page on the website):

And this is my "Year of Jewellery" themed piece ("curves"):

For Aisling...

2009-10-12T23:36:00.004+13:00

A week ago today, 2 year old Aisling Symes disappeared from her grandparents property, while her mother's back was momentarily turned. New Zealand has been praying and hoping for her safe return ever since. Aisling's story and that of her heartbroken family has gripped our nation.

Tonight, baby Aisling's body was found in a drain on an adjoining property.

Our hearts go out to her family...may she rest in peace.

I know that, in our house tonight, our kids have had extra hugs and kisses. We feel so grateful to have them here with us and send our love and prayers to the Symes family, tonight and always.

Rest in peace, wee angel.

Please leave a message of support for Aisling's family here if you feel so inclined (the Facebook page monitored by her family).

Go hug your loved ones tonight, ok?

More Vids and Some Jewellery (at long last..!)

2009-10-08T23:08:00.004+13:00

Managed to get some updating of the website done last night, so click here to see the new stuff :)

Also, thought I'd share with you a few things I've made as gifts recently. I did finish 2 bracelets I've been working on today, so hope to get them up on the site in next week's batch of new goodies - keep an eye out!

I made this for Lisa, as a thank you for her. She's a huge "Supernatural" fan, so I gathered brass charms that have links to "Supernatural" and mixed them with blue and black glass and crystal beads (her fave colours):

I also made this necklace for my cousin, who has very classic, yet contemporary, taste in jewellery. I used a black oval wooden bead and hammered some 18g silver wire to bed around it to create this very modern looking pendant:

AND I finally found time to finish off my latest vid for my "Tides of Change" story :) I have to say, it's my favourite so far...and it took the longest to make, downloading the clips I needed online was extremely time-consuming...! I used Delta Goodrem's song "Be Strong" for this one, as I think it accurately portrays what Jack's going through right now in the story. Enjoy!

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

And now I'm off to look for some inspiration for our Year of Jewellery theme for this month - "curves"...I've found a heap of stuff I want to try out, so don't be suprised if the new stuff on the website this month looks pretty curvy...LOL!

Tides of Change

2009-09-30T19:10:00.002+13:00

Well, I've been extraordinarily slack with my jewellery-making and crafting in general these past few months. Mainly because I've discovered two new passions: writing (fiction) and vidding! (I know, I know...what next eh?!).

I think I've mentioned before how Lisa (aka: WonderWoman!) has been fantastic with motivating me and providing me with endless support and feedback regarding my story. Well, she's also provided me with another outlet for my creative muse - vidding :)

I made this vid yesterday to show a trailer, of sorts, for the story I've been writing. It wasn't quite right, so I tu-tu'ed with it today and now I'm finally happy enough to put it on my blog (thanks Lisa, for pointing out the wee problem I had before...LOL!). Sometimes you just can't see the forest for the trees...!

This is the third vid I've made for "Tides of Change" and I must say, I think it's my favourite so far :) But it's not over yet...as the story progresses, I'm sure I'll want to vid it again...how can I not? Not only is it brilliant for the muse, but it's so much fun!

Anyway, hope you enjoy it...sorry for lack of jewellery lately - I'll get there, I promise! Just have to get this out of my system first :)

Find more videos like this on BAM Vid Vault

Oh - and thanks to Lisa's hubby Phill too, for the title...I honestly am crap with titles, and was so excited when he suggested "Tides of Change". So, Phill...mwah!! Thanks dude!

~A

Year of Jewellery for September - "Images"

2009-09-23T20:39:00.003+12:00

Finally finished my YOJ project for September - took me about 3 weeks, as there was lots of peyote to do...!

The theme this month is "images" so I used a lovely rub-on that I found in my stash, and rubbed it onto the base of a glass dome, then sealed it. I then glued felt to the back and peyote-stitched around it using tiny glass seed beads. I created the strap by peyote-stitching cream and purple Swarovski pearls into it. The little purple teardrops are Cubic Zirconia's :)

I'm really happy with it - it looks very ornate and Victorian, which is something that I personally am drawn to.

I hope to get it onto the website for sale in the next day or so.

~Amanda

Catching up at last...!

2009-09-17T10:33:00.006+12:00

Not sure what's happened this month - been abit slack with updating the blog - sorry about that!

Been quite busy these past couple of weeks. Went up to Auckland for a flying visit (a mad 24 hours!) with Mum and some friends to the "Give It A Girl" gig on Friday September 4th.

What an amazing show! New Zealand's talented diva's all on one stage (and at the same time!) - Shona Laing, Sharon O'Neill, Annie Crummer, Margaret Urlich, Julia Deans (ex Fur Patrol), new talent Lisa Crawley and Debbie Harwood (who orchestrated the whole event). Absolutely AWESOME! Some standout moments for me would have to be all 7 diva's singing Shona Laing's "Soviet Snow" as well as all 7 singing "When the Cats Away"s huge hit "Asian Paradise". Brought the house down!

Great to see New Zealand's talented female artists showcasing their talent this way, it was a brilliant show and wouldn't hesitate to go again if they went on tour with it.

Have been doing quite alot of creative writing lately, working on a story I've had in my head for a few years now. Thanks to the gentle needling of Lisa, her endless enthusiasm for the story and her encouragement and brainstorming (!!), the story continues...I may even have a decent shot of finishing this one - first time ever!! *Hugs* babe :D

Am also working on my latest Year of Jewellery piece. The theme this month is "Images" and I'm working on something that I'm really proud of. It's taking longer than I expected it to, and has sort of taking on a life of it's own...LOL! But I'll get there, I'm sure. Will post it on the site and on here when I'm done :)

Was super-excited last week, as the Season 5 premiere of "Supernatural" aired in the US (I watch it online). It was EPIC too...I was so hyper afterwards! If you're interested, all the details are over on my Supernatural blog, including a link to where you can watch online too, to see what all the fuss is about :)

Today started out well - I got an email from Stockannette to let me know that she'd included my "Starlet" necklace on her Etsy Treasury showcasing Kiwi talent - awesome! Here's a screenshot:

And don't forget, this weekend is Karnivool's first New Zealand gig - at the Kings Arms Tavern in Auckland! So get tickets if you haven't already, and prepare to have your socks well and truly blown off!

Congratulations Karnivool!

2009-09-03T20:39:00.004+12:00

Just thought you might want to see this pic of Karnivool collecting their gold discs for "Sound Awake", their 2nd album, released June 2009.

Thanks to my cousin Gayl (drummer Steve Judd's mum!) for forwarding the pic :)

Congratulations guys!

Don't forget - Karnivool are playing one gig in Auckland on September 19th - click here to find out all about it and purchase tickets.

Woot woot!

~Amanda

Busy busy...

2009-08-23T14:36:00.004+12:00

Can't believe it's been a week since I last posted - where has the time gone!?

What have I been doing? Well, mainly, working on custom orders and doing abit of creative writing :D It's been years since I last did any writing, so I've thrown myself into it (with my usual "devil may care" gusto) to the exclusion of most other things, except a large custom bridal order I've been working on.

The custom bridal order is now finished and looking fantastic, so it's time to move onto the next one...

The creative writing will probably be an ongoing thing (mainly because I keep changing things...!) but I've been lucky enough to have Lisa motivate me and provide me with much-needed feedback, which has helped to keep me focussed (because I tend to flit from thing to thing...you may have noticed).

Today, I've managed to finish my Year of Jewellery themed piece for August. Our theme this month was "1960s" and I must say, I was at a total loss as to what to do. After speaking to my Mum (who was a teen in the 60's) it seemed to have been predominantly about the clothes and less about the jewellery, which didn't help me much (!!). So I abandoned all hope of actually doing a piece that would look at home in the 60's, and settled for a 60's-inspired-piece instead.

I chose the Beatles (the Fab Four!) as my inspiration and retained the black/white theme as well as the geometric shapes (circles, in my case) and put them all together to make this very retro bracelet:

I'll list it on the website when I get a minute...

For now though, it's back to the grind. A woman's work is never done (in my case - laundry and housework beckon...).

Hope you had a great weekend!

100 Things

2009-08-14T16:22:00.003+12:00

I've seen this done recently on a few blogs, and thought I'd give it a go myself...not an easy task, let me just say right here and now! And I did kinda cheat on some of them, but all in the name of entertainment :)

So, here we go - 100 Things You Might Not Have Known About Me...

My favourite colour is emerald green
My favourite gemstone is (suprisingly!) emerald
My engagement ring was handmade for me in Edinburgh and features an emerald surrounded by diamonds
I have 2 other emerald rings also (told you I loved the colour!)
I am 5'11" tall (but wish I was more like 5'8"...)
I have never taken an art or craft class in my life
The first thing I remember making is a birthday card for my Mum - I was in primary school
I have one sister, who is 2 1/2 years younger than me
My sister and I were very close, growing up
I love colour and have more coloured clothes in my wardrobe, than black
I don't like patterned clothes, preferring block colours instead
I went to a Chris Isaak concert once, and very nearly pinched his bum (What?! He was dancing right in front of me! A friend stopped me...will never forgive you for that Owen - that could've been my claim to fame!)
I used to bite my fingernails (stopped when I was 13)
I'm actually quite shy in real life (with people I don't know...my friends and family would disagree)
I had a crush on a guy at my high school for 3 years...I never spoke a word to him
I have pale skin, with freckles and I hate the sun!
I'm more likely to be cold than hot (I hate winter)
I'm quite sensitive and have to learn to take criticism constructively
I was brought up to have a healthy respect for my elders and authority figures
I was brought up Catholic, although rarely go to Mass these days
My kids both go to a Catholic school
My husband is Scottish, and Protestant
I had Hyperemisis Gradivarum during both my pregnancies
I love a good argument
But I don't fare well in them...my brain doesn't work as fast as my mouth
I hate public speaking with a passion
My favourite takeout food is Mexican or Thai
I don't like curries or anything too spicy-hot
I have never smoked
I have a short attention span
My husband was my first love
I'm not really a dog or a cat person - I like both
I wear both gold and silver jewellery, equally
I am extremely sentimental (I horde stuff)
And loyal to my friends/family
I feel guilty that I haven't made the quilt I planned to make for my son (who's now 5) but not guilty enough to actually MAKE it
I made a beautiful quilt for my daughter when she was a baby - it is still on her bed and she loves it (she's now 8)
I met my husband at work
We moved in together a week after our first date
We were engaged for 18 months before we got married
He never actually proposed to me...we just both assumed we would get married
My husband was going through a divorce when I first met him
We celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary in February 2009
We have a "rescue dog", "Lucy the Wonderdog", (a Lab) who we all love
Lucy is so named because when we first got her, she would frequently "escape" from her run at the back of the house and be waiting for us on the front porch when we got home from work
Lucy fell in love with my husband...if she wasn't a dog, I'd be very jealous...
I lived in London for 3 months when I first left New Zealand in 1997...I hated it
One of my most glamourous jobs in London was being a "hostess" at Westminster Abbey (for a corporate event)
I was a teenage model
I left my hometown for Auckland in 1988 and had a brief modelling career
I was voted "Miss Personality" in the "Miss Central Auckland" contest in 1989 (I was 18 years old)
I competed in the "Miss Auckland" contest in 1989 but did not place
Although I appreciate the experience that modelling gave me, I didn't enjoy it and don't miss it
I tap-danced competitively for 3 years in my youth
I loved it, although used to get extreme stage fright
I still have the medals I won during my dancing days
At primary school, I made lifelong friends
The only sports I'm any good at are badminton and volleyball
I hate making phone calls (always have)
I used to work in the stationery sales industry
My first job lasted for 6 years, in the freight forwarding industry. I was 16 when I started.
I may have an addiction to the internet...maybe
I'm an inherently tidy person
My husband is an inherently messy person
It's too soon to tell which way the kids will swing (tidy vs messy)
I hate ironing
I listen to my iPod pretty much everywhere
I love music and have very eclectic tastes
I went to a Robbie Williams concert when I was 7 months pregnant with my son
Surrounding folk at the concert were afraid I was going to go into labour (apparently Robbie has that effect on pregnant women?) - I told them I wasn't that excited
I don't usually drink (and usually get drunk pretty quick). When I do, it's wine or Glayva (or whisky)
I'm a nightowl - I rarely get to bed before 1am (the best time to create is between 10pm and 1am, for me)
I don't like grapefruit, marmalade or anything sour
I have a VERY sweet tooth
If I could get away with it, I'd have 3 sugars in my coffee, but my husband says it's bad for me so I humour him (when he's around...)
I have a very low tolerance to sugar (ie: I get hyperactive)
I talk too much when I get nervous
I was always getting told off at school for talking in class
At high school, my favourite subjects were English and history. My most hated subjects were maths and science
I will never turn down a friend in need
I am not very competitive
I love watching sports (most of them)
My favourite sports are rugby, motor racing and cricket
As a child, my first "most hoped-for" occupation was race car driver
As a teenager, I wanted to be a journalist
I'm not very politically-minded, but I vote at EVERY election (thanks Suffragettes, for this privelege)
I'm a great multi-tasker (usually)
I love to help people and will usually go out of my way to do so
I suffer from migraines and general headaches all too regularly (it's a family trait)
I'm anal about having a tidy studio to create in, or work desk (at my day job)
I get withdrawal symptoms if I can't create - holidays are hard on me, I have to make myself relax
My ideal holiday would be a craft retreat
I hate to swim and have an inherent fear of drowning (so much so that I can't put my face under the water in the shower)
I love to write and am usually working on a story at any given time. I've never, however, finished one. Or let anyone else read one.
Lemon Meringe pie is my favourite dessert...followed by Pavlova
I've loved peaches and ice cream since I was 4 months old (ask my Mum)
My kids are a constant source of joy in my life (and so worth spending a cumulative 18 months throwing up whilst I was "baking" them!)
I'm close to my parents (and work with my Mum in my day job - she's my boss!)
My most favourite person in the whole world is my Nanna, who died in 2005. I miss her and think of her daily. I often have conversations with her late at night, when I'm creating.
I am constantly amazed at the amount of friends (online and in person) that I've made since I starting making jewellery.

So, there you have it! I did cheat abit with some of them (like, dragging them out abit), but man! 100 facts is one helluva lot!

Hope you enjoyed :)

Winter? I don't think so...

2009-08-09T20:19:00.008+12:00

Sometimes, a New Zealand winter surprises me. I spent five winters in Scotland, and ever since we returned to New Zealand (which was eight years ago this year) not a winter has gone by where I haven't thought to myself "How I survived those five winters, I'll never know".

Winter in New Zealand can be wet. It can be frosty. It can be windy. But usually not all at once. This winter, for instance, it's been frosty. Which means blue skies, heavy frosts overnight, definately very chilly, but very little rain and wind. Which all, for me, falls under the category of "manageable"!

I can deal with the cold if the skies are blue and cloudless :)

This weekend, I didn't get much time to do very much in the way of creating. Friday night I made a new bracelet and necklace (no pics yet - hopefully this week!), but that's been pretty much it. Spent the weekend doing housework and laundry, and some much-missed "family time". Fantastic stuff!

Yesterday (Saturday) we went over to Whakatane for the afternoon to do some shopping. We had lunch there and took the kids to the park, down by The Heads (the Whakatane harbour entrance).

Whakatane Heads - "The Lady on the Rock" (harbour entrance):

A fishing boat coming in over the bar (in the half hour we were there, at least 8 boats came in - good fishing on Saturday, I think - the carpark was full of empty boat trailers):

The kids head to the playground, STAT!

Today (Sunday) we went for a walk along the beach at Waiotahi (5 minutes drive from our house). We weren't the only ones - there were a few people out enjoying this glorious weather. We were in t-shirts, for goodness sake - in winter!

The kids and Lucy (our Labrador) meander along the beach:

Just look at that for a "winters day"!

Not a day goes by when I don't feel grateful for what we have here, in our little corner of the world.

We are truly blessed :)

Congrats to Karen Nolan!

2009-08-05T20:21:00.002+12:00

Woot woot! Karen's comment number was drawn out of a possible 48 comments to win the blog giveaway above - well done Karen! As soon as I get your delivery address, I'll send the lovely brooch out to you :)

Thanks to everyone who entered - it was great fun, I'll definately be doing another blog giveaway (perhaps next month? It seems a great way to kick off the month!).

Well, I've been busy tonight. I've made a bracelet and a necklace and will be posting them onto the website as soon as I've downloaded the pics.

I've also finished my Bead Swap piece (will share that with you once we're all finished!) and also my Year of Jewellery themed piece for July ("Precious"). The August theme for the Year of Jewellery is "1960's" so that gives me VERY wide scope...watch this space (I'm really gonna enjoy this theme!).

Remember my friend Lisa (she of the amazing "Supernatural" fan-fictions?). Well, Lisa has a brand new website totally dedicated to her stories! To see them, and the videos that accompany the stories, just CLICK HERE!

And it's thanks to Lisa that this song has been stuck in my head - and on my iPod! - for the past few days! She uses it in one of her vids and I'd forgotten how much I really loved this song :)

And - I've had the most AWESOME day! I found out that Pearl Jam (one of my most FAVOURITE bands!) are coming to NZ in November! Woot woot! So, I'm going online when ticket sales open on Tuesday next week to get tickets. And then I'll be counting down the sleeps...I'm so excited!

Time to have a coffee and calm down :)

~A

Giveaway!

2009-07-30T07:52:00.005+12:00

To see July off with a bang, I've decided to have a giveaway on my blog!

Up for grabs is this lovely button brooch with Czech glass flowers, silver accents and a glass leaf - just the thing to brighten up your winter wardrobe (if you're in the Southern Hemisphere right now!) or to match your summer wardrobe (if you're in the Northern Hemisphere!).

All you have to do to be in in with a chance of winning it is leave a comment on my blog (don't forget to make sure there's a way for me to contact you if you DO win!). I'll do the draw this time next week (6 August - NZ Time - that's 5 August if you live in the USA/UK/Europe!) via random number generator, and will post it off to you as soon as I get your address.

So, spread the word, and good luck everyone!

~A

** PLEASE REMEMBER TO LEAVE ME A WAY TO CONTACT YOU WHEN YOU LEAVE A COMMENT!! ALOT OF THE COMMENTS BELOW EITHER HAVE NO EMAIL ADDRESS OR THE PROFILE IS NOT ACTIVATED SO I CAN'T REPLY OR CONTACT YOU IF YOU WIN :( **

My Favourite Ring

2009-07-29T19:24:00.005+12:00

You know what? One of my favourite jewellery peices EVER is this ring:

Willie bought it for me in a jewellers shop on the Royal Mile, just down from Edinburgh Castle (or just up the road from Holyrood House - depends which way you look at it), a few weeks before we left Scotland to come home to New Zealand.

To be fair, I chose it myself (never leaving anything to chance!). It's made from Scottish gold and was designed by Orkney designer Ola Gorie. It's called the "Eilean Donan ring" - the text is in Gaelic and reads: My Love Is Upon You.

You may or may not know that Eilean Donan Castle was the castle used in the "Highlander" movie, as home of Clan McLeod (which is actually Dunvegan Castle and is on the Isle of Skye - nowhere near Eilean Donan Castle...the magic of Hollywood!).

Despite having many, many (...many!) rings, this is one I wear alot. I just love the sentiment :)

Karnivool are coming to town!

2009-07-24T09:10:00.007+12:00

Auckland-town that is :)

Yep, my cousin Steve's band, Karnivool, are in Auckland for one night only (September 19th). For venue details and ticket sales, just CLICK HERE.

(Steve's the one in the white t-shirt).

I'm so excited, it's kinda ridiculous :) Can't wait!

I've been giving their latest album "Sound Awake" some major play-time via my iPod recently, and it just keeps getting better.

Now, if only I could get Our Lady Peace and Pearl Jam to organise a gig here too (together would be even better!), I'd be as happy as a pig in the proverbial.

But, back to Karnivool. According to Eventfinder:

"Perth Quintet Karnivool dares to occupy a genre no other Australian band risks: progressive hard rock. Unlike prog rock masters Pink Floyd or King Crimson, their variety encompasses the atmosphere of Tool, emotional weight of the Butterfly Effect and a glint of Queenryche grandiosity.

Karnivool have just been certified gold for sales in Australia of their latest album "Sound Awake" released June 5 2009. After sold out shows in Australia and supported by the dramatic theatrics of Battle Circus and the full on rock of These Four Walls, this will be one monster of a night not to miss!"

“Sound Awake is the bands finest work to date, an ambitious exploration of sound that borders on sheer genius” - Faster Louder – May 2009

Maybe I'll see you there!

Solution to Crafter's Block

2009-07-21T18:31:00.003+12:00

Y'know, sometimes no matter how much you feel you SHOULD be creative, it just won't come. I spent all weekend going from one project to another, but nothing (and I mean nothing) would gel. It nearly had me tearing my hair out in frustration. But...that's the way things go sometimes. The family ducked for cover as the four letter words started flying...

So, in the face of such adversity, what's a crafty girl to do?

The best thing is to just WALK AWAY and leave it for another day (not one of my specialties, I have to admit - I'm the "push and push until you get it" type). Maybe it was the weather (it was pretty crappy all weekend), but I did actually manage to walk away (and was glad I did - the "not gelling" thing was truly messing with my head). I ended up listening to alot of music and doing a little creative writing instead (which was really fun - it's been ages since I've done anything like that).

I also managed to squeeze in some housework. Oh joy.

Anyway, here's a sample of what was on my iPod all weekend...I know. What can I say: I have kinda eclectic taste in music :)

So...here endeth the lesson :)

~A

Precious Handmade Treasures

2009-07-17T16:58:00.005+12:00

I popped home during the day today to grab some stuff for my Mum (one of the great things about working 5 minutes away from home!) and got the loveliest of suprises!

Apparently, my birthday wasn't yet over...this beautiful collage was in my mailbox, along with a lovely card from Karley! I was so touched - as I think I've said before here, handmade gifts are so special to me, they really do touch my heart. And this amazing collage that Karley has made for me is no exception...

Isn't it gorgeous? It is loaded with symbolism which I will keep just between myself and Karley for now (although I'm sure some of it you can work out for yourselves!). It truly is a treasure and so inspirational - I have it situated in pride of place in my studio, for all to see :)

THANK YOU Karley - you really are a special person and I'm so grateful to have you as a friend. YOU ROCK!

I also found a new home for Verna's handmade shell heart - it just adds that "certain something" to my "heart wall", dontcha think? Gorgeous!

I just wish my "heart wall" was bit bigger...I'm running out of space - aargh! Disaster! LOL

Thank you to everyone who passed on their birthday wishes (in whichever way!) - I'm so grateful :)

~A

Birthday's ROCK!

2009-07-16T22:06:00.005+12:00

Happy birthday to me :)

Yes, today I celebrated my birthday. And boy, did I celebrate! Was woken up by Willie and the kids and PRESSIES IN BED (I love that!) and handmade cards from the kids (awwww - so love handmade cards - and this year the kids went OTT and made me SEVEN OF THEM!! LOL).

Dropped the kids off at Mum's (whose turn it was to babysit today - school holidays) and got my pressies from Mum and Dad too - so spoilt!

Then into work, where I had lovely pressies waiting for me (thanks Verna, and Nanna and Grandad!).

Then I had a lovely family lunch at work, which was great :) Then it was home to Noeline's homecooked meal which the whole family got to enjoy, not just me! Menu consisted of pea and pesto soup, roasted beef with "Noeline's special mashed potato" and various other gorgeous foods that I can't even begin to name (only because I don't know what she made!) but we loved it - ALL of it! Even the gorgeous Bailey's-laced chocolate/jam/cream roll - mmmmmmmm!

So, I'm feeling abit like a poisoned pup just now :)

Possum and merino gloves, shell heart, Quilting book, my favourite perfume (Tocade), a red watch, a Marilyn Monroe watch, a vase, a handbag and a gorgeous handmade card :)

This gorgeous shell heart was handmade for me by Verna, with shells she collected herself. I love it! Handmade gifts are so precious to me.

Audrey Hepburn 4 piece teaset, red glass plate and the HUGEST birthday card I've received for awhile (from my Mum and Dad - resplendent with cupcakes - they know me so well!!).

The gorgeous handmade card from Noeline :) She has included all the things I love: fashion (pink and green - my colours!!), Audrey Hepburn, and Paris (on the back!). Fantastic quotes she has written inside include: "There are certain shades of limelight that can wreck a girls complexion" and "Let me tell you something Mister - if I had her money, I'd be richer than she is". And my personal favourite - a quote from my favourite movie, "Breakfast at Tiffanys": "Personally, I think it's abit tacky to wear diamonds before I'm 40". Oh, she knows me sooooo well!

A close-up of one of the cup and saucer sets featuring Audrey Hepburn (from my Mum and Dad). Again: they know me so well!

The table Mum set for my birthday dinner...she told Georgia (who was "Head Assistant" that they had to "make it pretty, cos Mummy loves pretty things"). Awww.... :)

Mum and Dad's dog, Merty, watches on while they "do" the table...

The kids and I, pre-dinner.

Mum, Cammie and I (photo by Georgia), pre-dinner...

Noeline's "icing on the cake" - I have no idea what it was called, but all you need to know is that it was laced with copious amounts of Baileys, chocolate, cream and jam. And it was DELISH!! Thanks Noeline - you're the best!

Ah...I do love birthdays :) Bring on next year!

Rhys Darby = Funny Guy

2009-07-13T08:14:00.001+12:00

This ad is my FAVOURITE on TV at the moment (thank God someone finally uploaded it onto YouTube!!). Rhys Darby just cracks me up - every time!

~A

Showcase: Collage Artist - Karley Johns

2009-07-11T20:07:00.004+12:00

Recently, I was lucky enough to chat with Wellington collage artist Karley Johns. What a lovely person she is - and also, what amazing talent! She has a wicked sense of humour too - which I think shows in some of her work.

Here are some examples:

Karley is currently working towards an exhibition, hopefully at the end of this year - I'll keep you posted!

In the meantime, if you like what you see, email Karley for further details :)

I support Kiwi artists and encourage you to "buy New Zealand made!" when it comes to artwork. Help support our thriving handmade community!!

~A

Too cute!

2009-07-10T11:26:00.003+12:00

Mum got a belated birthday present yesterday - a set of gorgeous, handmade Russian "Matryoshka" dolls. Aren't they gorgeous?

Just look at the detail - even on the tiniest doll!

Too cute not to share :)

Reclusive Millionaire? Disgraced Financier?

2009-07-09T09:43:00.005+12:00

Or maybe:

Shy Celebrity? Witness Protection Programme? What about Entrepreneur?

Well, have I got the property for you! It's not often I pimp out my day job on my blog, but man, we have an awesome property for sale at the moment that's just soooo worth pimping on here!

This property is unbelievably only 88kms (that's under an hour's drive, people) from Opotiki and - wow! It's Pacific Coast Macadamia's right now, but look at the potential of this property - and the views - the VIEWS! Paradise!

It's 2.5639 hectares of paradise, people! At the gorgeous Whanarua Bay. And at a cool NZ$1.6m, a real steal (seriously - the potential of this property is HUGE!). Just sayin'.

So, if you know someone who may be interested, just contact Opotiki Realty and we'll sort you out :)

SALE!!

2009-07-08T13:58:00.003+12:00

I have a sale on my website but once a year - the week before my birthday :)

So, until midnight (NZ time) on 15 July 2009, there is a massive 20% off all necklaces and bracelets on the website.

Happy birthday to me - and you too :D

Bead Swap pics are in!

2009-07-07T21:05:00.005+12:00

About 6 weeks ago (give or take, I forget now) I participated in another Beadhive Diva's bead swap (our 9th, would you believe!). This one was themed "raindrops".

Once again, we had to send off a specific number and colour of beads (clear or crystal, 6 beads total, including one focal bead) to our bead swap buddy. Then we were to make whatever we wanted with the beads we received from our buddy, and this time we were allowed to add whatever we wanted in order to complete the design (the rules differ for each swap).

Well, being the purist that I am, I made myself stick to the original bead swap rules (because I think they challenge me the most) and (except for about 4 filler beads in the chain) I didn't add a single bead to my swap piece :) I'm really proud of this, because it makes you think outside the square and it's great for problem-solving! Good training.

Anyway, the beads that I received from my buddy weren't exactly "clear/crystal" but they were gorgeous all the same, I'm sure you'll agree. And there were alot more than 6!
And this is the beautiful necklace I made with them:

And here's a close-up on the centrepiece:

I'm going to put it on the website with next week's batch, so look out for it then :)

I'm organising the next one - and I have a doozy planned...join us if you dare! Email me before 14th July to be in on it :)

Recipe and News

2009-07-01T22:35:00.006+12:00

Tomorrow night, we shall be feasting on Lamb Shanks. One of our favourites in this house! My Mum used to make them when we were kids, and now I make them for our kids. I'll share the highly complex recipe with you (if you promise not to tell - shhhhhhhhh....).

Ingredients:

4 lamb shanks (or knuckles, as they're sometimes called)
1 pkt of powdered Onion Soup mix (we use the Maggi one, but Pams is just as good)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp Paprika

Method:

1. Put the lamb shanks into a crock pot/slow cooker.
2. Mix the brown sugar, Paprika and soup mix together and sprinkle over the top.
3. Switch the crock pot/slow cooker onto "Low" for 8-9 hours.

That's it!

We serve with fresh veges and mashed potatoes, but you can serve them with whatever you like. You don't have to add any water or liquid of any sort as the lamb will cook in it's own juices - and believe me on this, it is YUM! The meat literally FALLS off the bone - nothing beats it :) I prepare it before I head off to work in the morning (it takes but a minute, after all) and then, when I walk in the door after work, it's all done! I just need to cook the spuds and throw on some veges - hey presto, instant yummy!

Remember - keep it to yourselves...

As to what else I've been up to, well I've been waiting for the webhost to fix my site as I couldn't add any new pics (hence, no new items) until today, so have been updating the website tonight.

And watching the first episode of "Fringe" here on TV in NZ. Really enjoyed it - very "X Files", I have to say, which is not altogether a bad thing. Looking forward to seeing how it progresses. The only thing that puts me off is that TVNZ, in their infinite wisdom, managed to stretch a (probably) one hour show into 1hr 45mins with seemingly ENDLESS ad breaks...I kid you not, we had an ad break at 10pm and another at 10.05pm! And so it went on...bloody annoying and totally unneccesary. Stuff like that peeves me off no end.

We also had some great news at the end of last week - Karnivool's second CD "Sound Awake" (that I talked about here) went GOLD! Yahoo! Well done guys! Very exciting!

Willie and I have just finished watching series 2 of classic kiwi drama/comedy "Outrageous Fortune". Absolutely brilliant! We're now awaiting delivery of the series 3 DVD's...very impatiently.

And in honour of Outrageous Fortune, here's the theme song - the classic "Gutter Black" by iconic kiwi band Hello Sailor:

Enjoy! And - if you decide to give the lamb shanks recipe a bash, let me know what you think of it!

New beads = Yippeeeeee!

2009-06-25T00:59:00.004+12:00

I've been sucked in by the beadweaving bug...!

Yep folks, I'm talking about peyote here (the bead technique, not the drug. Just clarifying!). I've been trying to get the hang of peyote, on and off, for a couple of years, but each time I try, I give up in disgust.

And you know what the trick is?

1. A proper, flexible, beading needle (bliss!)
2. Delica beads! They're so uniform, the work just fits together like a jigsaw puzzle - awesome!

Anyway, my new Delica beads have been arriving over the past couple of days. Here's my new collection:

And here's my old collection (now just relegated to filler beads - NOT TO BE USED FOR PEYOTE WORK!):

I had a shuffle about in my studio, and even created a proper space for them! I just need to buy more of the little plastic tubes to store them in, so I can see them more easily at a glance. Here's their new home:

And here's what I've peyoted so far (to be added to the website this weekend-ish):

Ahhhhh...bliss!

~A

New blog template and 1950's style

2009-06-22T14:44:00.004+12:00

I was fiddling about with my blog template today - do you like? I felt like a change :)

While I was looking for black and white pics of 1950's housewives for the new header, I came across these gorgeous pics of Audrey Hepburn. They reminded me of why I love her - who else can make black capri pants and a black top look as great as this? It also reminds me that it's not WHAT you wear, it's HOW you wear it. Style is about soooooo much more than just "fashion"...

Happy Stylish Monday!

:)

My Little Tipple

2009-06-20T22:55:00.004+12:00

Let me just begin by saying: I am not a big drinker. Honestly - anyone who knows me well will confirm that. But, that said, if I was to have a drink, it'd probably be wine (either red or a sweet white wine - bubbles are good too!).

But that's more a summertime thing for me. In winter, I prefer a glass of whisky liqueur or of port (preferably tawny port). It's the warm glow that it leaves on it's way down that I really savour - perfect for wintertime drinking :)

Last night, up at my folks place with my cousin Gayl, visiting from Australia, we sat down to a wee sampling of sorts. We ended up with a few drinks in front of us: Black Sambuca (which I also like), brandy, Benedictine (euch!), whisky (Grants - not a favourite of mine) and Glayva.

Now, Glayva is one of my favourites, has been for a few years now. It wasn't always the case though - I remember trying it once about 10 years ago and I hated it. Now though, my tastes must have mellowed, becuase it truly is at the top of my list.

The other whisky liqueur I love is Wallace. We bought a small bottle from somewhere on the Royal Mile (may even have been from the gift shop at Edinburgh Castle?) in 1998 when my folks were visiting from New Zealand. Unfortunately, we can't seem to find it for sale here in NZ. Boo hiss! And to get a 70cl bottle in from the UK will cost NZ$120 - I DON'T THINK SO! Not that desperate for it...

But that would be my first choice, definately. Glayva is a very close second though. And I really enjoyed drinking it last night (both neat, and on the rocks - the flavour is lovely and smooth on it's own, but I do like it with ice as well).

So, if you happen upon either of these two and haven't tried them before: DO! And let me know what you think of them :)

Peyote Bezeling....tick!

2009-06-18T13:55:00.005+12:00

Woot woot! FINALLY (and I don't say this lightly - I dread to think of the hours I've spent this week trying to master this!) - I have figured out how to do the peyote bezeling thing! Really! I'm that excited!

Here's the first peyote bezeling necklace I've made (using a vintage glass faceted cabachon, pink freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals and seed beads...and a shedload of concentration, irritation, patience and hard work!!). What do you think? Of course, I *had* to make matching earrings when I was done with the necklace (goes without saying). Never mind that it took me until 2pm...ish...

And yes, now I've been bitten with the peyote bug...have a few other ideas in mind and am now gathering supplies like a madwoman...again...

Year of Jewellery for June - "Square" - tick it off!

2009-06-16T20:41:00.003+12:00

Woot woot! Finished my Year of Jewellery piece (theme this month: Square) last night - what a relief! I'm really happy with it! I used Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls, along with gorgeous faceted Cubic Zirconia teardrops in "autumnal" tones. The pendant frame was hand-hammered and then coiled with non-tarnish antique bronze artistic wire and the chain's brass. I'll be listing it on the website later this week.

Now I'm playing around with peyote bezels...not all that successful, but I'm not giving up till I've got it sussed...and the way it's going lately, it could be awhile...

Another Week, Another Completed Order

2009-06-15T20:56:00.004+12:00

This weekend just flew by. I'm actually quite scared that it's already halfway through June and it feels like yesterday I was doing the end-of-month stuff for May - where are the weeks going? I hate that.

The weekend itself was fun - especially Saturday! Actually, starting Friday (backtrack with me a little, won't ya?). Friday night after work we went out with Rozelle and Ron to celebrate their engagement (so romantic - he bought the ring for her and CHOSE IT HIMSELF!! How many guys do you know who do that?!).

Saturday afternoon Verna came round on her way back from Gisborne to Auckland (hell of a trip, that one), so we got a chance for abit of one-on-one catching up, swapped some books and agreed it's been far too long since we last visited her up there. So, come Labour Weekend (October), we are SO there! Can't wait :)

Later on Saturday afternoon, we headed off to Ron and Rozelle's "official" engagement party, at their house. A great afternoon was had, we were all nice and chilled, and the rain even stayed off for long enough so the kids could play outside. Bonus!

Saturday night is best forgotten. We headed home to watch the rugby (All Blacks vs France). Not a good idea. I think I'm jinxing my teams. First the Chiefs in the Super14 Final, then the AB's in the first International Test of the season...what the hell?!? Come ON guys, I mean, really! Time to pull finger and win a game or two, 'K?

Sunday was good too. Managed to finish two custom orders. The first one is earrings to match a top:

Then it was a faceted garnet, Swarovski pearl and Vermeil/Goldfill rosary bracelet:

And I finally finished the embroidered cuff bracelet I've been working on all week. Woot woot! I've called it "Treasures of Atlantis":

I also updated the website (finally!) with alot of my new pieces. Including my new beaded bead earrings and bracelet! Really loving the beaded beads right now. So much fun to make!

Today I've been working on my Year of Jewellery-themed piece. The theme is "square" and I had abit of an epiphany this afternoon, so it's almost done. Just heading off to finish it now. Yay!

Inspiration works like that for me. It truly does come out of nowhere. Strange. But I'm happy with strange :)

Karnivool - "Sound Awake"

2009-06-12T22:48:00.007+12:00

My cousin Gayl arrived from Australia for Mum's birthday celebrations bearing gifts - for me, no less!

My cousin, Steve (her son) is the drummer for Perth band Karnivool, and she bought me their new CD, "Sound Awake". Awesome! Been listening to it for the past couple of days and it's really growing on me. I leant their first CD, "Themata", to a family member last year sometime and I never got it back. Can't remember who I leant it to...if it was you, send it back to me! Please! Families eh?!

Here's the first single off "Sound Awake" - "Set Fire To The Hive":

You can follow Karnivool on Twitter or check out their Myspace page. More music video's are on YouTube.

I'm off to watch Supernatural (even if it is Season 2 here - it'll help with my withdrawals while I'm waiting for Season 5 to air, at least).

Raining here...still.

~A

Happy 60th Mum!

2009-06-10T08:06:00.003+12:00

My Mum turns 60 today - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!

Off to breakfast at a local cafe shortly, then having a family thing tonight - I gotta work today, which is sucky cos Mum's my boss :) But, she'll be off celebrating and being thoroughly spoilt for the day, so Noeline and I are holding the fort.

Luv ya, Mum :)

Weekend Lowdown

2009-06-07T20:45:00.004+12:00

OK, so here's the lowdown on this weekend:

minor family drama (no injuries or deaths, thank goodness)
MSN'd Vic and Lisa (had big time fun, nabbed some new emoticons that ROCK - thanks Lisa!!)
watched some channel 63 (80's and 90's music, mostly - relived my "glory days")
became extremely (extremely!) frustrated because my webcam is now not working, for some inexplicable reason???? Tried uninstalling and then re-installing it but still not working. Gave up before I was tempted to launch the laptop out of the nearest window. Hence: webcam still not working.
caught "Juno" on Sky (finally!) - and it was really good
came to the realisation that 2 x Panadol + about 200ml of "V" = brilliant headache remedy (seriously - I have sworn off Paramax for my migraine's as of today)
finished ALL my custom orders and now feeling very smug :)
started and finished a bracelet, which I'm really happy with and will be listing on the website this week
got on top of all the housework (yay!) including all the laundry (super-yay!)
had a GREAT belated birthday dinner at Mum and Dad's for Willie's birthday - with roast, apple crumble AND birthday cake (yumbo!) - thanks for a great evening, guys!

I'm now impatiently awaiting the arrival of one of my favourite cousins, who's over from Australia for my Mum's 60th birthday on Wednesday. I can't wait!

Now I'm off to make another work of wearable art and possibly watch another movie. Have you noticed how great it is to curl up in front of a good movie in the wintertime?

Bliss.

Happy Birthday Dude!

2009-06-04T22:54:00.005+12:00

Today is my hubby's birthday (yay!). But he's in Taupo until tomorrow night for work stuff (boo!). We phoned him this morning and sang happy birthday to him down the phone (yay!). It was minus 4 deg.C in Taupo at the time (boo!).

So, the partay is delayed until tomorrow night instead (boo!). But there'll be cake (yay!). Nope - not baking it myself, am saving myself a shedload of aggro and buying it instead (whoop whoop!).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DUDE :D

I was sooooo the queen of multi-tasking last night. I finally watched "Twilight" - which was very much "meh....". Wasn't all it was cracked up to be, in my opinion. I was expecting more "Supernatural". I guess, when it really comes down to it, the Brothers Winchester have spoilt me for everyone/thing else. Ah well.

Back to the multi-tasking. Last night, I was simultaneously:

- watching "Twilight"

- chatting to Vic on MSN

- making a bracelet

- eating donuts by the truckload. You know - those little ones with the multi-coloured icing that you get from the supermarket? Yum!

Good or what?! OK, well, when I started chatting to Vic, I did pause "Twilight", so maybe that doesn't count. But still. Pretty impressive I'd say!

Also found out something verrrrry interesting about myself. Apparently, I have a very low tolerance to sugar. As in, the more donuts I ate, the funnier I got (well, so I thought anyway). I had put it down to the fact that it was after midnight (as in "Dude, I'm so funneeeeeee after midnight!"). But then Vic pointed out that it was probably the sugar rush. (I was like "Duh! Yeah, the sugar!").

Oh boy.

Anyway, here's a pic of the bracelet I made last night while simultaneously chatting/watching/eating:

Will get around to uploading it onto the website within the next couple of days, hopefully. Am nearly up to date with my custom orders - spent a few hours tonight updating the website with pics and a couple of other new items. I really should do that more often so it's not so time-consuming. I'm working on it.

OK. Well, then. Off to finish my coffee and stoke up the log fire in preparation for another cold night tonight. I'm not sure, but it sounds like it's raining. Yay! I love going to bed to the sound of rain on the roof :D

Today's Word: "New"

2009-06-03T00:52:00.003+12:00

Yep, that's right folks - "new" is today's theme.

As in:

"New" bead swap - the Beadhive Diva's are throwing themselves into another swap. This time, Leeanne's organising it and the theme is "Raindrops". We have to send a focal bead (clear or crystal-like in colour), 2 medium sized beads and 3 larger beads that match but aren't necessarily the same as the focal bead. We can add whatever we like to finish our design, and make whatever we want, but we can't omit any of the beads we are sent. Whew! Can you say "challenge"...?

Also "new" is this month's YOJ (Year of Jewellery) theme, which I drew out on 1st June. It's "square" this month and....eek! No ideas instantly popped into my head (apart from the obvious - but I try to avoid doing the obvious), so will have to troll through my design ideas file and see what jumps out at me...watch this space!

Apart from that, we are into a "new" month (well hello June!) and 1st June also signifies the start of our Southern Hemisphere Winter (oh, joy). Woot, woot...ah, forget it. I hate winter. How I survived 5 of them in Scotland I'll never know.

So, I'm off to pack up my gear and get to bed. Been busy trying to catch up with custom orders this afternoon, then promptly fell asleep on the couch after dinner and woke up just after 10pm.

What a party animal eh?!

Oh - nearly forgot - didn't manage to watch "Twilight" DVD today (see aforementioned post-dinnertime nap...). Am aiming for tomorrow. Also have to help Georgia with her speech this week, for school, and it's Willie's birthday on Thursday as well.

Great. I sucked at them when I was at school, now I gotta go through it all again with Georgia? I feel I'm being punished.

'Nuff whingeing. Bedtime.

~A

Winter Wonderland

2009-06-01T22:52:00.004+12:00

Wow - woke up this morning to the news that Gisborne (barely an hour and 40 minutes drive away) had snow - SNOW! Amazing! We had cousins visiting on their way through from Auckland to Gisborne today and because the road through the Waioeka Gorge to Gisborne was closed, they stayed for abit longer, to kill time, which was a bonus :)

Anyway, Vic sent over these great photos this evening of the snow in Gisborne - thought you might be interested...

Oh, and in case it isn't obvious by the tone of this post - we very rarely get snow this close in the wintertime. So it's a novelty (especially to this degree!).

Soooooo...what did we get up to this Queens Birthday holiday, you ask? Well, we went to Tauranga for abit of retail therapy with my folks. Fun fun fun! Also picked up the "Twilight" DVD (Whitcoulls have 25% off DVD's at the mo - joy!), so looking forward to settling down to watch that tomorrow night.

I'm a simple lass, really :)

~A

Happy Birthday, Queenie

2009-05-31T21:32:00.005+12:00

OK, so the weekend started out well.

Saturday: My cousin Mark turned up, on his way from Wellington up to Auckland on another massive road trip. We are SO proud, I mean SO proud. He has just graduated Police College and starts at his new post next week. The kids thought he was a real life hero (awww, bless!). We love ya, "Jugs"!! Mum supplied this pic from his graduation on Thursday last week:

Later, my parents decided to take the kids overnight (yay!), so we took them up after dinner and spent a few hours watching tv and having a drink or two, which was lovely and relaxing. Even the weather was nice!

Got home, went to bed around midnight cos the Chiefs were playing in the Super14 final, which was played in South Africa (against the Bulls), and it meant a 3.30am kick-off. So I grabbed a couple of hours sleep, then we got up at 3am. I must be a sucker, but I love watching Northern Hemisphere games live - it's so much more exciting! Takes me back to my youth, from the time I was about 10, my sister and I always asked to be woken up to watch the All Blacks when they were playing "up north". My Nan used to wake us all up, make cups of tea, make sure the fire was stoked up so we were all warm, and then make cheese and Marmite "toasties" in the oven, for snacking on during the game. We loved it!

So, anyway, in case you didn't hear, the game was a bust. Chiefs were well and truly out-played by the Bulls (all credit to them, as Sean Fitzpatrick was famous for saying) and it was a sucky game. Nothing sucks more than watching your beloved team getting run rings around by a better team.

Mum and I texted each other during the game, and the conversation went a wee bit something like this:

(About 20 mins into the first half)

Me: Wot da feck...? If da Chiefs don't pull finger I'm goin back to bed. Dis is crazy!

Mum: I no. Its all 1sided @ da moment. Nothn 2 get xcited about

(After first half was almost over and we were getting well and truly cuffed)

Mum: Thats it. We bak 2 bed.

Me: Hey u cant do dat! U guys r ment 2 b die hard fans!

Mum: We R, but we tired 2!

(At half time)

Me: We r gonna stik it out. Start praying! Hoping 4 a rark up in the dressng room at half time

Mum: Dats my girl

(Not long after)

Me: Yahoo! (after only try by Cheifs in second half)

Mum: We stil watchn!

Me: Dats my girl LOL!

Mum: I fulla sh*t!

So yeah. Optimism was there, but it didn't really help, did it? Gah.

Sunday: Slept in late...I mean really late. Got woken up unceremoniously by my sister and her 3 kids (plus an extra playmate) who turned up for a visit. Whoops - sprung! Never mind, she knows what I'm like :) The kids were dropped off not long after, and we spent a lazy day watching TV, listening to music and refereeing the occasional arguments the kids got into. It was organised chaos. My poor nephew (who's 4) fell over on the concrete and ended up with a bruise the size and shape to a golfball on his forehead (but he was more worried about the fact that he had stubbed his toe in the process...he's a tough little nut!).

After farewelling them, we settled in front of the fire (which is where I am now - it was chilly today and is worse tonight!) to watch some telly.

And you know what? Tomorrow's a holiday too (this is Queens Birthday weekend so we all get Monday's off).

Wonder what we'll do with it?

Epic Rock

2009-05-28T20:54:00.007+12:00

While whipping up another truly scrumptious dinner tonight (Domestic Goddess, remember?), I cranked up this song on my iPod and the kids and I boogied round the kitchen. Seriously. We do that alot!

It's the classic U2 song "Silver and Gold" from the album "Rattle and Hum" and it's undoubtedly my favourite U2 song of all time. Was stoked to find the vid on YouTube! The Edge's guitar solo (at 4:55 on the vid) is EPIC! It gives me goosebumps :)

Crank it up, folks!

~A

Chair-Dancers Beware!

2009-05-27T20:15:00.003+12:00

Just sittin' here, rockin' out tonight :) Dinner's done, dishes are too, kids are in bed and I should be working on my custom orders, but I just got a little sidetracked here...back to the custom orders in a minute :)

And, because I'm not exactly having a blog-heavy day, thought I'd share with you one of my favourite songs at the moment.

Lily Allen's "The Fear" is brilliant - love her! WARNING: This is the album version (not the radio version), so the language is a little..."choice". Don't watch this if you're a little sensitive :) If you're not sensitive - knock yourself out - this ROCKS!! Dare you not to chair-dance to this LOL!

Lily's album "It's Not Me, It's You" is right at the top of my favourite albums list at the moment - I listen to it in it's entirety at least once a day (usually when the kids aren't around...it's bad enough they listen to Pink!).

OK, back to the custom orders. Move along people, nothin' to see here...

~A

Finish Book: Tick!

2009-05-26T22:03:00.004+12:00

Yup, tick it off - finished! Finally! Of course, I would have finished it sooner, had I not been waylaid by another book halfway through...woopsie (see aforementioned Attention Deficit Disorder...).

What am I on about (and you may well ask)? I finally finished reading "Eden Close" by Anita Shreve yesterday. Yay! Quite a pleasing book, not earth-shattering, but entertaining, and that's not such a bad thing is it?

And why did it take me so long? Well, because halfway through it my copy of "Life's That Way" (by Jim Beaver) turned up in the mail from Amazon, so I dropped "Eden Close" to read that instead. I do that. Drives my husband crazy. Bonus!

I posted previously about "Life's That Way" and how I was enjoying it (if that is even the right thing to say about a book so heartwrenchingly raw). But it was awesome, and I think it's probably not too much of a stretch to say that it has changed my life. It certainly makes you appreciate your loved ones. At least I have them here with me, which makes me luckier than some. It's good to get that reminder once in awhile.

I'm now onto book 2 in the Anita Shreve omnibus I bought (and intended to read over Christmas last year - whoopsie), "Strange Fits of Passion".

With any luck, it won't take me 5 months to read it. Depends what else comes along in the meantime...

~A

Another Week, Another Movie

2009-05-25T20:59:00.004+12:00

Can't believe it's Monday - the weekend just seemed to "whoosh" - disappear!

Friends came over from Gisborne on Saturday - the weather was gorgeous, which was awesome! Had a good laugh, but it wasn't long enough :( Next time, they'll have to stay the night so we can squeeze in a fun night as well!

Sunday was spent indoors...all day....man, was it cold! We kept the fire going all day, and basically curled up in front of it...for the day. I'm beginning to hate winter already.

Today was a typical Monday - ooh, except the kids went up to my folks for a couple of hours and Willie and I watched "My Bloody Valentine" on DVD. Eeeek! I'm a real wuss when it comes to horror movies - but the fact that Jensen Ackles was in it was a big drawcard for me! Still...yes, I enjoyed it (there was more of a story there than I'd thought there would be) but yes...I still spent some time hiding behind my hands/the cushion/the TV remote/whatever was to hand...it was originally a 3D movie, but even though we didn't get the 3D version, we still "got" the 3D effects...which were actually pretty damn cool.

Be warned: NOT FOR THE SQUEAMISH!!

And somehow, between Thursday and Sunday, I've ended up with a tonne of custom order/remakes that are littering up my workstation, so I spent a wee bit of time today working on them. Still need to update the website with them though, so I can keep track of them. Gonna be busy this week!

Anyway, will leave you with this cool vid - was chilling out to this song tonight while I did the dishes (see: "A Domestic Goddesses Work Is Never Done") - I so love Missy Higgins, and the fact that this vid was recorded live really shows you what a great performer she is - she puts such feeling into her music. And I love this song - has to be one of my favourites of hers :)