Creation Junction

Camera Critters #36

2008-12-13T08:56:00.004Z

Camera Critters #36 - 13th December 2008

Hi

Have not found the picture of Minnie that I was thinking of sharing, but found this one and decided to share this instead.

This is Minnie - she is a Spotted Bengal. She is the smallest of our three cats - people always ask if she is a kitten, but she is about 8 years old. The one thing I did not realise about Bengals before we got her - they are highly vocal cats. And the more you ignore them, the louder they get! They also have very different cries for different reasons. This is all fine until she decides that because she is awake at 4 in the morning, everyone else should be too. But we still love her dearly!

This is not recent snow - this fell in April. All the cats were really quite confused by it - we don't get much here on the South Coast of England. They could not work out why their paws disappeared into it - it was great fun to watch ! Hopefully we will get more soon - I love snow!

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat xxx

Camera Critters #35

2008-12-06T18:28:00.004Z

Camera Critters #35 - 6th December 2008

I do have another of my cats to introduce to you all, but need to find the photo I would like to share, so this week I am sharing a picture I took whilst visiting a bird of prey centre.

Prior to the flying display, the birds were on show out of their cages and I managed to achieve some fantastic shots. I will share some more, I have no doubt.

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat xx

Friday 5 - December 5th

2008-12-05T18:15:00.004Z

Friday 5 host a meme - a series of 5 questions. This weeks questions are called "Childhood Indulgences":

1. When did you last have a mid-day nap? Probably not that long ago. I got into the habit of having a nap during the day when working split shifts and even though I don't work them anymore, my body still says "right, 2 o'clock, time for a nap!"
2. When did you last have milk and cookies? I was never able to drink milk as a child and still do not like it now, unless it is made into a latte, so if we were talking Latte and a cookie - last week. For those who want an answer on milk, when I was about 2 I guess.
3. When did you last have a bubble bath? Sore point - the house we are living in currently does not have a bath, so definitely not in the last 6 months. Prior to that, at least once a week and with a lot of bubbles!!!!
4. When did you last jump on the furniture? Probably when I was about 5 or 6. It was never allowed by my father, so I probably received a telling-off for doing it!
5. When did you last play in the mud? I never liked playing in the mud as a kid and still don't now. I hate getting my hands dirty and when I do, I need to wash them as soon as I can.

I have two childhood favourites that I have carried into adulthood - an advent calendar (and it must have chocolate) and my Christmas stocking! It is the first thing I open on Christmas day and what I get most excited about.

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat x

Booking Through Thursday - 5 For Favourites

2008-12-04T20:08:00.003Z

Booking Through Thursday - A weekly meme about (mostly) books and reading.

1. Do you have a favorite author? There are many books that I have bought, purely based on the author, but I am completely unable to name one favourite. I love the series by both Jean Auel and Diana Gabaldon and have read them all. I also love anything by Kathy Reichs and James Patterson. So, no, I don't think I have a favourite.
2. Have you read everything he or she has written? Partly answered already, I guess. I have read everything written by Diana Gabaldon and Jean Auel. I cannot think of any other authors that I have read everything they have written.
3. Did you LIKE everything? Yes, although Jean Auel's series is frustrating due to the length of time between books. There was a 10 year gap between numbers 4 & 5 and a 6 year gap, so far, for book number 6.
4. How about a least favorite author? That would have to be a no. The books I don't read tend to fall into a genre rather than by author.
5. An author you wanted to like, but didn’t? Oh, what a toughie! I honestly cannot think of any.

This week's questions were tough - I do not tend to read books dependent on author. When choosing a book, I will look at the book title and cover image first. Then I read the blurb on the back. Whether or not I purchase tends to be on a gut instinct. Usually I am right and enjoy the book. Having said that I will read a certain author on recommendation.

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat x

Making Friends

2008-12-02T21:04:00.005Z

Time for another scrapbooking update. Last week I managed to snap this moment, where my cat - Louis, the British Blue - and my aunt's cat - Sam, the tabby - actually managed to get this close with no grumbling. For the very first time!

Thanks to:

Layout inspiration: Sketch courtesy of http://www.pencillines.com/2008/11/sketch-113.html - designed by Ingvild Bolme

Programme: Photoshop Elements 6.0

All papers and elements: Shabby Princess - Spontaneous Delight by Carrie Stephens

Font: Stencil

The colours of this kit are stunning, very masculine, yet they work just as well with girly photos because of the flowery elements.

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat xx

Camera Critters Meme #34

2008-11-30T20:47:00.004Z

Hi all

A little hungover today, following a fantastic birthday celebration yesterday evening (not mine!). A very good evening was had by all, but was in serioud need of a chilled day today!!

Camera Critters: This week I would like to introduce you to the second of my fur-babies - Louis. A blue British Shorthair, who happens to be the cat with the smallest amount of brain. I love him to bits, but he has no common sense at all.

Not sure what he is thinking here, but he always pulls a silly face when he sees he camera and gets all fidgety!

I did not realise until I transferred this to the computer, but I love that the box he is sat in says "please remove before use".

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2008-11-27T22:19:00.004Z

Booking Through Thursday - a weekly meme about (mostly) books and reading.
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Apparently it is Thanksgiving in America today - not something we really understand over the waters here, but I understand the emotions behind it, so today's question is:

So–just for today–how about sharing 7 things that you’re thankful for?

1. My amazing soulmate of a hubby
2. My loving family
3. My 3 gorgeous fur-babies (known as Sophie, Louis & Minnie)
4. That I have a secure job in this uncertain time
5. My fantastic network of friends, who keep me sane when I need it
6. That I have a roof over my head and food in my cupboard
7. That I have my health (well most of the time - there seems to be so many bugs going around at the mo!)

Good question this week - I try to always make a list of things I am grateful for when I am feeling low - it does work!

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Rant over

2008-11-27T21:43:00.009Z

Hi
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Feeling a little happier this evening - I have made the decision to pull out of the swap. I did not feel right about asking someone to craft in such a short period of time. I did get permission to post what I would have sent in the gallery though, so I did get to share, which was nice.
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I was so pleased with everything I made, but especially the stocking itself, the bowling-style bag and the rainbow journal.

The stocking was made using random patchwork. I worked a piece larger than the template and cut out the shape. The reverse is the red star fabric. It is lined with a burgundy silk-type fabric. I added a variety of stars on the front in sequins, embroidery and beads. I stitched a little bunting shape decoration to go across the top and bound the lining, wadding, stocking, hanging loop and bunting together with bias-binding made from the burgundy swirl fabric. I finished the bunting with little jingle bells.

The bag was based on a bowling bag. The outer fabric was a recycled pair of trousers that I was given and knew I would never wear - it is a lovely chocolate brown. I lined the pocket and the bag with a stunning red fabric with a gold swirl. There is a pocket on the front, bound with red bias-binding, and a pocket on the inside.

The journal is my favourite item I made. I handmade all the paper within the journal, choosing colours to create the rainbow. I bound it and choose complimentary scrapbooking papers to cover it. I added a ribbon and button closure and two ribbon page markers with heart charms. I love it and have decided to keep it - how very selfish of me!!!
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All in all, I did enjoy the swap process, but, I think understandably, I feel a bit let down by the final result. I will join in again at some point, but not sure when just yet.
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Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Bit of a rant, I am afraid!

2008-11-26T22:08:00.004Z

Hi

Not a happy post this evening. Several weeks back I decided to be a big brave girl and join one of the Craft Swaps on Craftster. This forum is full of the most talented and generous people and when I saw a swap come up for a Christmas Stocking full of goodies, I knew this was the one for me.

I am a very nervous crafter when it comes to sharing my talents - in that I have very little faith in my ability, regardless of how often I am told what I do is okay!

Well, I signed up and waited, somewhat impatiently, for the sign-up period to close and partners to be assigned. The day finally came and when I read the likes and dislikes of my assigned partner, I was a little nervous in that they were the complete opposite of mine, but I knew that it would be a challenge and I was up for that. I did a lot of research and made lists galore, but finally decided on what I was going to make.

Well, about 2 weeks ago I received an email to say that my partner appeared to be MIA. At this time I had all but finished the parcel and was ready to package it up and send. Luckily a replacement partner stepped up, but before anything could be arranged, Partner No 1 re-appeared on the scene and promised she would be sending before the end date for the swap. Well that date came and went last friday and no word came. It is now wednesday and no word has been received of her sending, so it is not looking good. And I have received word this evening that the lovely person who offered to stand in, has had life get in the way and will no longer be able to do it.

My options - to let them find me another partner or to drop from the swap. Do you ever get the feeling that something is just not meant to be? Well, I am right now. I have left the ball in the court of the organisers - I don't think it is fair to ask someone to craft and post in such a short period of time, but I would still love to be able to pass on the pleasure I have got from making the stocking and filling it to someone else!

I am sure there will be an update shortly - but I will leave this now with a heavy heart and the thought that hopefully there is someone out there that is feeling as bad as I am, for letting someone down. Although, for someone able to act like this, I somehow doubt there is!

Blessings to all (bar 1 person maybe, just this once)
Daisy Cat xx

Unconscious Mutterings week 304

2008-11-23T13:24:00.005Z

Week 304 - 22nd November 2008
I say ... and you think ...?
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From Luna Nina this week:

1. Spit it out :: Bush Tucker Trials on I'm a celebrity - it is just wrong on so many levels what they make those guys put in their mouths!
2. Shadow :: strangely enough, the first word that came to mind was boxing - do I want to explore that thought more deeply - not sure I do actually.
3. Database :: Spam emails and junk snail mail
4. Expression :: smiles that do not reach the eyes. Someone present in my life right now is very good at this and it makes them appear so false.
5. Boss :: Useless and overpaid!
6. Baby :: Finding out, just as I started to type this post, that some good freinds of ours are 13 weeks pregnant - they are so excited and I am so happy for them.
7. Mystic :: questionable! I am unable to say I do not believe and yet I have seen no conclusive evidence to say I do.
8. Kate :: wet kisses all over my cheek during a very drunken wedding reception. (I love you Kate, just as you are!)
9. Boobies :: Jessica - this may take some explaining! Jessica is my adored 3 yr old God-daughter and she has just realised that women have these things. She peers down your top at every possible opportunity and looks you straight in the face and says "You have boobies!" So cute and yet so embarrassing whilst out shopping!
10. Raid :: My husband's addiction to World of Warcraft and the excuse not to wash up after dinner is that he is going on a raid with his guild!

Peace to all
Daisy Cat xx

What are you thinking?

2008-11-23T12:54:00.006Z

Hi

Back in September we went and stayed with Dad in France. Whilst staying with him we visited a medieval village called Chauvigny, specifically to see the "Les Geants du Ciel" show. We have been trying to visit here for a couple of years now, but every time we have tried, something has thwarted our attempts. This time, we made it and it was worth the wait. If you ever visit the area, take time to go and watch these majestic creatures flying in the ruins of a castle.

The castle stands up high over the modern town and I managed to capture a sneaky photo of my darling husband. (Bear in mind, please, that he normally scowls at me if I point the camera in his direction.) On deciding to catch up on some of my scrapbooking, this photo in particular shouted to be scrapped and this is the result:

Thanks to:
Layout inspiration: Sketch courtesy of http://www.pencillines.com/2008/11/sketch-111.html - designed by Sarah Jane Dowsett
Programme: Photoshop Elements 6.0
All papers and elements: Rakscraps.com - megakit, September 2008
Font: Script MT Bold

It is not often my man stands still for long, so I was glad to capture this image. (I did however get one of his looks when he turned and caught me out!!)

I have no doubt I will be working with some of the hundred photos we took of the birds and will share when I do.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Camera Critters Meme #33

2008-11-22T17:01:00.006Z

Hi all

After a boring day of grocery shopping and sorting, I decided to come online to look for a fun meme to do this bitterly cold Saturday. Found Camera Critters:
and as I am owned by three gorgeous cats, who are all completely spoilt rotten, I could never miss the chance to introduce them to you!

Let me introduce you to Sophie - a blue and white British Shorthair, caught here enjoying a little patch of sunshine. She is almost completely deaf and blind, but still likes to live life to the full and loves nothing more than curling up on a lap to be fussed!

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Friday 5 - November 21st

2008-11-21T20:55:00.002Z

Friday5.org host a meme - a series of 5 questions listed each friday (funnily enough!) This is the first time I have participated in this one, seems like fun, so here goes:

1. How’s your health? Not bad, considering I am slowly recovering from a viral throat infection. Glands have gone back down now and the sore throat has gone, but it has left a tiredness that I just cannot shake. But I have a weekend of very little planned, so hoping I get some much needed rest in!
2. How was your day? Long and tedious, trust me you do not want to know.
3. How’s the weather? The wind has been bitterly cold today, but it has been dry and sunny and the sunset was absolutely glorious. Why is it that a camera is not to hand when you most need it?
4. How do you expect to get anywhere in life with an attitude like that? Normally, I would say that I have a very balanced and positive attitude to life, but have discovered that a positive attitude is harder to maintain with such a level of tiredness. It will return shortly and I will be back to my positive self.
5. How many people made you smile today? I am the kind of person that will smile at anyone, for any reason, so I do not need people to "make" me smile. But I did have a very special smile saved for my dear hubby when I got in from work to the kettle boiling, ready to make a much needed cup of tea.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Time to pick this blogging lark back up

2008-11-21T19:37:00.007Z

I am absolutely amazed that it has been well over a year since I last posted to my blog.

It has been such an up and down year. The company which we had poured so much love and time (yes, and money) is now no more. We finally had to admit defeat when the bank decided to withdraw their support - in exactly the same month that we broke even for the first time. The bank withdrawing support came in the form of them reducing our overdraft dramatically which in turn meant all our direct debit payments failed and incurred hefty charges. The landlord did not take non-payment of rent too favourably, funnily enough, and started making life very uncomfortable. Eventually we came to the decision that struggling to pay rent and bills had lost its appeal and we called time on our beloved baby company.

We have also moved once more. Last time we moved it was into a house share situation. Everyone warned us about doing this and we heard more scare stories than I thought possible. Well, for the first 8 months it worked fine. We food-shopped as a team and took turns in cooking and cleaning (well mostly). Now, I would never be able to honestly say my husband and I are the tidiest of people, we like our home to be clean, but things in piles do not equal dirt. But even we have to draw the line at some things and it became to be a real bone of contention with the couple we shared the house with. More and more frequently it became us doing the majority of the housework. So when the contract came up for renewal, the decision was not hard to make!! This came not long after the company being closed, so with finances reduced to one income, an offer of a roof from my aunt was welcomed with open arms - and so this is where you find me now. We are basically living in one room, with all our furniture and belongings boxed in the attic (which was luckily completely empty). I would not agree with anyone who offered an opinion of this being easy. Anyone who has lived in their own home and then returned to living with family will no doubt agree with me.

What else have I been up to?

Well I have discovered swapping. Now, stop that giggling all you in the back row. The swapping that I have discovered is for the crafty-minded among us. I discovered Crafster.org and fell in love. This place brings together some of the most talented and generous people. Seeing what other crafty people get up to is inspiring. And they host Organised Swaps. I kept looking and wanting to join, but it took me a while to pluck up the courage to actually join in. When the sign up was posted for a Christmas Stocking swap, I decided to pluck that courage right up and sent of the questionnaire. It has been a real rollercoaster of a ride, apparently not normal for the swaps they host, I have been assured. I will post more about this once I have posted my package.

Following this, I discovered Swap-Bot.com. Since discovering this site I have signed up for 3 swaps - the first being an International Christmas Card swap. I had to send a christmas card (written) to 6 partners and in return would receive 6 back. They have a very simple rating system - 1 if you do not send, 3 if you send but do not meet the terms of the swap or 5 if you meet all terms. If the sender goes above the terms, you can award a heart. I sent well before deadline and have so far received 3/6 ratings, all 5's with 2 hearts. Why did I get hearts? Well I digitally designed, printed and made up a bookmark listing the details of the swap to include with the card. I have since signed up for an ATC swap and a further Christmas Card swap.

I have also discovered Postcrossing.com and again, I am in love. The basic premise is that you register with the site and send a postcard to a random member of the site. Once you have sent your name goes into the pool to receive a card. I have received so many stunning cards and have had a miniature insight into peoples lives. I will surely be returning to this subject in future posts.

Well, I am sure I have missed much in this catch up, but the plan is to return far more regularly in future, to keep track of all my swapping adventures.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat x

Clicking for Breast Cancer

2007-09-23T14:30:00.000Z

You can click once a day and they are sponsored by the advertisers. You can also click to provide food, books, child healthcare, food and care to animals or save the rainforest.

Peace to all

Daisy Cat xx

Unconscious Mutterings

2007-09-23T12:48:00.000Z

Week 242 - 23rd September 2007

I say... and you think...?

Singles :: Cheese Slices - over processed, no nutrients, over packaged, but oh so good!
Blaze :: Crisp, sunny autumn day - the colours of the autumn leaves in sunshine.
Sandwich :: wholemeal bread, butter, avocado slices, mayo and lots of black pepper - heaven!
Outside :: picnic (please note, not a packed lunch!) - crusty bread, cheese, salad, fruit, etc. Good food, good friends, kids, dogs, sunny days.
Gooey :: chocolate fudge cake.
Industry :: big factories, lots of black smoke.

Exclusive :: that 5*, all inclusive holiday destination that I dream of.
Warranty :: the comforting knowledge that the item in question will break down/fall apart/stop working the day after it runs out.
Magical :: the fact that I have the most amazing husband whom adores me back!
Heels :: sore feet!

Some hard words this week, but all interesting.

Love and peace to all

Daisy Cat xx

Randomness!

2007-09-23T10:25:00.001Z

Randomeme4u has a weekly meme to feed your mind. Each week there is a new random thought, quote or set of questions to keep you busy.

The week of September 23rd has the following random questions:

1. day or night? I love aspects of both, so I am going to sit on the fence on this one. On a clear, sunny, crisp autumn day, it would have to be day, but I love the peace of the night.

2. chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate, pure and simple.

3. coffee or tea? I love both, depending on my mood and the time of day.

4. renting a movie and staying home or going out to the theater? Depends on the movie. Big action type films have to be seen on the big screen, but I do love renting a movie, opening a bottle of wine and chilling at home.

5. regular books or audio books? Regular, the feel and smell of a real book cannot be beaten.

6. driving to a far off destination or just taking an airplane? If time is no problem, I love to drive and especially if I get to stop along the way.

7. hamburger or hotdogs? Neither, being vegetarian.

8. listening to music or watching tv? I do love to watch TV, but if I had to choose one, it would be listening to music.

9. Desperate Housewives or Survivor? (both are tv shows) Neither, not my kind of TV. I love programs like Heroes or Stargate.

10. homecooked meal or fancy restaurant? Homecooked meal, with lots of good friends to share it with, preferably a full roast dinner with all the trimmings.

Fantastic set of questions today, thank you.

Love to all

Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-09-20T20:25:00.001Z

Sunshine and Roses

The reverse of last week's question. Imagine that everything is going just swimmingly. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and all’s right with the world. You’re practically bouncing from health and have money in your pocket. The kids are playing and laughing, the puppy is chewing in the cutest possible manner on an officially-sanctioned chew toy, and in between moments of laughter for pure joy, you pick up a book to read . . .

What is it?

I have never really been the kind of person to change what I read depending on my mood. I have always been able to read whatever book I pick up, when I pick it up. Saying that, I quite often pick up a previous non-starter when I am in a good mood and find that I am able to "get into" it where I have failed before.

Seems to be a very short and sweet answer this week! Sorry!!

Love to all

Daisy Cat xx

I now pronounce you Chuck and Larry

2007-09-19T21:24:00.000Z

I received a little bonus via email yesterday - an offer of two preview tickets to go and see I now pronounce you Chuck and Larry, the new Adam Sandler film. Well, I had not heard much about it and would not normally pay to go and see a comedy (I do not think they lose much transferring to small screen), but who can argue with free tickets!

It was funny. More so than I was expecting, if I am honest. Adam Sandler is always good, even if he does always play the same character and his co-star, Kevin James, I loved in Hitch and he was good in this, but for me, Ving Rhames steals the film. His part is not huge and I will not go into details as I do not want to spoil it for anyone, but I loved his character! With Steve Buscemi, Jessica Biel and Dan Ackroyd supporting, all in all it was a good cast. (Oh yes, and keep an eye out for Rob Schneider!)

If I had paid to see this film, I would not have been disappointed, but going for free is always a bonus! Not a film I would add to the DVD collection, but I would watch again if it was showing on TV. Worth a watch.

Love to all
Daisy Cat xx

2007-09-16T11:37:00.000Z

Unconscious Mutterings

Week 241 - Sunday, September 16th 2007

I say ... and you think ... ?

Rita :: Skeeta (I have just finished Harry Potter!!)
Comedy :: Timing - and I have none!!
Polar :: Bear - the cutest most dangerous thing
Idiots :: Jackass. I just do not get it!
Perception :: common sense - knowing when to challenge your own perceptions.
Infected :: foot and mouth
Fake :: diamond
Relating :: family tree, something I am fascinated with, but do not seem to be able to find time to sit down and do.
Distraction :: Sophie! (the cat currently trying to sit on my laptop to stop me typing!!! but definitely the cutest distraction ever)
Gamble :: risk taking

Love to all

Daisy Cat xx

Randomness

2007-09-16T11:03:00.001Z

Randomeme4u promises a weekly meme. Each week there is a new random thought, quote or set of questions to keep you busy.

The week of September 16th has the following random questions:

1. what's your favorite color? This is tough as it depends on my mood. I tend to stick to fairly neutral colours, but if I need a spot of cheering up I love anything with plum or purple tones.
2. how many languages do you speak? Apart from my native English, I speak French well enough to get by and I can order coffee, say hello/goodbye and introduce myself in German and Spanish. I would love to learn something like Chinese or Japanese though.
3. who is your best friend? I am incredibly lucky in that I have an amazing group of friends, but my best friend and soul mate is my darling hubby.
4. are you married? Yes, to the most amazing man whom is my daily inspiration and makes getting up in the morning worth while.
5. what's your favorite song? I have so many but to narrow it to one - Please forgive me by Bryan Adams. It is "our song". After 14 1/2 years together, it still stands true.

It still feels like our first night together
Feels like the first kiss and It's gettin' better baby
No one can better this
I'm still hold on and you're still the one
The first time our eyes met it's the same feelin' I get
Only feels much stronger and I wanna love ya longer
You still turn the fire on

6. what is your greatest fear? That I lose my health or my husband. Money and material things come and go, but they mean nothing if you do not have your health or someone to share them with.
7. who is your hero? My mother - she is the most amazing woman who has done everything in her power to ensure that I have the self confidence and the life skills to cope with everything this crazy planet we live on throws at me. I love her for that and can only hope I do half as good a job with any children I may have.

Love to all
Daisy Cat xx

I am back!

2007-09-16T10:52:00.001Z

After a short break from my blog, I have returned for all the wrong reasons....boredom. I cannot believe it has been so long since I have posted, the days are just going by so quickly it feels.

After celebrating my birthday this week and having a birthday party yesterday evening, I am now at that point where I have Christmas to look forward to next and that seems to come round far to quickly once my birthday has gone.

Just over 14 weeks!! Planning to do Christmas on a budget this year, so need to start looking for ideas sooner rather than later. I have so many bits and pieces in my craft boxes that I must be able to use on something. Any ideas gratefully received!

I am off to complete some memes, I'll be back soon.

Love to all
Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-07-26T16:37:00.001Z

Booking Through Thursday

Who’s the worst fictional villain you can think of? As in, the one you hate the most, find the most evil, are happiest to see defeated? Not the cardboard, two-dimensional variety, but the most deliciously-written, most entertaining, best villain? Not necessarily the most “evil,” so much as the best-conceived on the part of the author…oh, you know what I mean!

The more I think about this the more I keep coming back to Voldemort in the Harry Potter series, but this is so unoriginal. Maybe it is just because it is so fresh in my mind, but he is such a good baddie and so well conceived and written.

I cannot believe my mind has gone so blank. There must have been so many with all the books I have read, but not one stands out!! How awful is that!!

Well I am going to leave this and go bake muffins. If I think of any better villain, I will let you know!

Blessings to all
Love Daisy Cat xx

Hurray for the Internet

2007-07-26T16:27:00.001Z

Hello everyone

I'm back! Yippee!! I cannot believe I have gone so long without internet. We moved out of our house on the 15th June and we only got reconnected this week. I cannot believe it has taken so long, but I am so enjoying having it back. I do have internet at work but spending more time there than necessary is not on my list of fun things to do. I have been checking my emails and have managed to join the revolution that is "facebook"! Friends have been nagging me to join for a while so I gave in. It is great fun. I am a vampire bride and a pirate captain. I have an aquarium and a garden and a pet polar bear called Smartie.

Well we are in our new house and slowly getting settled. Still seem to have so much in boxes, but finding homes for everything is fun. And we are having our first party this weekend, to celebrate 4 birthdays and moving in.

Blessings to all
Love Daisy Cat xxx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-06-21T19:45:00.000Z

Booking Through Thursday posts a new question every thursday.

Today's is:

Since school is out for the summer (in most places, at least), here’s a school-themed question for the week:

1. Do you have any old school books? Did you keep yours from college? Old textbooks from garage sales? Old workbooks from classes gone by?

Yes, from studying English at school (I still love Far from the Madding Crowd) and from studying Hotel Management and Catering. I love to be in the kitchen and still have all my recipe/catering books.

2. How about your old notes, exams, papers? Do you save them? Or have they long since gone to the great Locker-in-the-sky?

I don't think so, unless my parents have kept any. I did keep one project I did at about age 10 for years and years, but I think I finally gave in and threw that away too. (It did win me a school award though, which was my justification for keeping it for so long.)

Not been around much - we sold our house some time ago and the solicitors have been too-ing and fro-ing for months, then last monday we were told we were exchanging wednesday and completing friday. Scary - we had waited so long, we had not found anywhere else, we were so convinced the sale was going to fall through. So I spent most of last week surrounded by boxes and newspaper and now we are staying with my aunt until we find somewhere to rent. Hopefully only a week or two.

We did enjoy a lovely weekend away though, friday to monday just gone. We stayed at Moorhead Farm just outside Barnstaple, in Devon. Swam, hot tubbed, sauna'd and pottered around the shops. After a stressful week and days of moving boxes, it was just what the doctor ordered. If you want to head that way, check it out, it is lovely.

Well, blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Friday Fun (one day late!!!)

2007-06-09T05:51:00.000Z

Friday Fun from Multifaceted Mama

Which would be your idea of fun…?

1. A mani/pedi or mountain biking? Would have to be mani/pedi (but would prefer a facial or massage).
2. A day at the beach or a day on the slopes? A day at the beach.
3. Dinner at a 5 star restaurant or homecooking at a diner? Homecooking every time.
4. Coffee and a good book at a coffee shop or a cold drink and a good book in the park? Coffee and a good book (well a good book anywhere actually!).
5. Musical theater a là Broadway or a movie in the theater? Either, I love both.
6. An evening at the opera or a rock concert? Rock concert would be more fun but I do love an evening at the opera.
7. Manilow or Metallica? Neither I'm afraid - not my kinda music.

Sorry I am a day late guys, we had a friends for dinner last night and didn't finish 'til late, so did not manage to get online.

Have a great weekend all, I am off to Intech science museum today for my godson's birthday treat. Looks fun, I will let you know what it is like.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-06-07T20:47:00.000Z

Booking Through Thursday
Almost everyone can name at least one author that you would love just ONE more book from. Either because they’re dead, not being published any more, not writing more, not producing new work for whatever reason . . . or they’ve aged and aren’t writing to their old standards any more . . . For whatever reason, there just hasn’t been anything new (or worth reading) of theirs and isn’t likely to be.
If you could have just ONE more book from an author you love . . . a book that would be as good any of their best (while we’re dreaming) . . . something that would round out a series, or finish their last work, or just be something NEW . . . Who would the author be, and why? Jane Austen? Shakespeare? Laurie Colwin? Kurt Vonnegut?

The first one that comes to mind is another book from Jean M Auel in the Earth's Children series, but I already know that is supposed to be in the pipeline. There was a number of years between books four and five in the series, so it could be a while. This series, for those who haven't read it, is set in the ice age and follows the life of Ayla and Jondalar. Brilliant series!

But I know she is not dead and a 6th book is promised, so that does not really fit the bill.

I love all the books by Louisa May Alcott, especially Little Women, so something else by her would be good. The same goes for Jane Austen. I have always loved her books.

Lastly, and returning completely selfishly to my childhood, I would absolutely love to have another book in the Magic Faraway Tree series written by Enid Blyton. The stories of Moon Face, Silky the elf, Saucepan Man and the children and the worlds they visit at the top of the tree!! I grew up reading and re-reading these books and now as an adult own all of them and, shame free, have re-read them again!

Well goodnight all, have a fantastic weekend.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Friday Fun - Favourites

2007-06-01T20:49:00.000Z

Hi all

Found a new game to play - Friday Fun - from Multifaceted Mama.

This weeks questions are:

What is your favorite…?
1. Flavor of ice cream? I love Strawberry, Chocolate and Cherry all equally.
2. Cold beverage? Water, ice cold.
3. TV show? At the moment Supernatural. Jensen Ackles is so cute.
4. Hobby? Cardmaking or Scrapbooking.
5. Place to visit? To date, South Africa, it is so beautiful.
6. Pizza? Five cheese, but it has to include blue cheese.
7. Online news source? bbc.co.uk
8. Online game? Mah-jong at Play and Win

Have a good weekend all.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-05-31T07:51:00.000Z

This weeks question from Booking Through Thursday is: Paper or Plastic?

Do you read e-Books?
If so, how? On your computer, or a PDA?
Or are you a paper purist? Why?

I have not read any e-Books and I have not yet been tempted to. Part of the reading for me is the feel of a book in my hands and the smell of a new book is high on my list of favourite smells. I love my computer and the fact that I can travel all over the world from within the confines of my home, but there comes a time when the weight of a book and the feel of paper in my hands calls and that means the computer has to be put away.

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Update on my previous post about my burn - the blister burst of its own accord and I now have an open wound that is very sore. There has been a huge debate in my house about whether to leave it uncovered to scab over or whether to keep it covered and supple. In the end I called a friend of my mum's who is a nurse and her opinion was to keep it covered, so that is what I am doing. Please pray for me for a quick recovery! I don't do pain very well, it is such a waste of energy, and hubby is getting a little fed up with me!!!

Anyway, blessings to all.
Daisy Cat xx

Pirates of the Caribbean

2007-05-27T12:50:00.000Z

We went to see Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End last night. Despite being just shy of 3 hours, it was amazing.

I have always been a fan of Johnny Depp, but if I am honest, I think Orlando Bloom shone in this film, especially the "kiss" scene, it made me go all weak at the knees!!

The weirdest thing though, was that the cinema stopped the film half way through for a 10 minute comfort break. I understand the notion, but the point they chose to stop was a little odd. The screen just went black and all the lights went on. 10 minutes later the lights went off and the film just picked up where it stopped. I have never been to see a film where this has happened before and it felt very strange, yet when you go to the theatre, it seems so natural!!

But for all that, it did not spoil the film. I do wish I had watched Dead Man's Chest before I went, it took me a few minutes to remember where we had left them all, but I soon got back into the story. Chow Yun Fat was fantastic as one of the Pirate Captains and Keith Richards as Jack Sparrows dad was hilarious and all the favourites were there. Everytime I watch any of the films, I end up wanting a Capuchin monkey - they are so adorable, but is it fair to keep a wild animal in captivity?

Anyway, if you liked the first two, you have to go see it, I loved it!

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-05-24T18:17:00.000Z

Today's Booking Through Thursday question is as follows:

Parlez Vous?
I had an idea for a BTT question when I was taking a peek at one of my bookcases yesterday and spotted my old copy of the Aeneid in Latin sitting there. Maybe this question has already been done—but if not… Do you have any foreign language books and if so can you (still) read them?

The quick answer is no, unless you include magazines (well they are reading, sort of)!! Although I can get by in French, I really do not speak any foreign languages, never mind read them. But, I do have magazines from both France and Spain, mainly cross-stitch and scrapbooking, where to be honest the pictures are more important.

Not been on for a few days, had a bit of an accident earlier this week when I spilt hot oil all down my thigh! Now I have a very painful burn, with a lovely blister which I am aching to burst!! Keep being told off for thinking about that though, so am resisting.

Well, am round a friends house for the evening, sitting being very anti-social, posting on her computer, so will be off now. I can't resist BTT though.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Running a business is not easy!

2007-05-20T20:06:00.000Z

Twisted Vision Ltd was born in July 2004 and like any new baby it takes nurturing and loving care and attention to allow the baby to grow. Without any exaggeration, it has been the longest, hardest 3 years I have ever known.

We have had 2 different bank accounts, a huge bank loan and overdraft, 2 different units, 6 directors (4 are still current), numerous bad staff, and customers, and many, many, many working hours and late nights. But we are still here, when so many new companies do not make it through their 1st year. And, we are just starting to make some kind of profit.

So it was with some shock that we received a call on Friday from our, now ex, bank. They are withdrawing their support as we are not paying enough into our account! Considering we have paid more into our account in the last three months than at any time previous, we were a little surprised. When we asked how they expected us to now purchase materials to continue making a profit, in order to repay the huge bank loan and overdraft, the response was "well you can't". Well, I cannot think of any answer to that. Unfortunately the only way we could get the loan was to sign a personal guarantee, so if we close the company, we still have to pay, but there is nothing stopping us from going personally bankrupt if that happens. Drastic, yes; do-able, yes; but not an action I would like to take.

So Monday morning sees us trying to find a new bank account. We have contracts in place and more work booked in than at any time before, so here's to hoping someone else sees the potential in our little infant company.

Please pray for us as we try and jump this latest hurdle.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-05-17T20:40:00.000Z

Every thursday, Booking Through Thursday poses a question about books. Today's question is:

"It happens even to the best readers from time to time… you close the cover on the book you’re reading and discover, to your horror, that there’s nothing else to read. Either there’s nothing in the house, or nothing you’re in the mood for. Just, nothing that “clicks.” What do you do?? How do you get the reading wheels turning again?"

I have never, to date, not had a book-in-waiting. I always have at least three or four books "next in line" to be read.

I do, however, suffer occasionally from not clicking with anything I have. When this happens I go back to an old favourite. The Dark Materials trilogy from Philip Pullman, the Diana Gabaldon series, the Ayla books by Jean Auel or the Shellseekers by Rosamunde Pilcher. I have read all of these several times.

Failing that - I read a beach-trash novel. When completed, my brain is ready to go back to something that stretches the grey matter a little further!

To change the subject a little, a question to those who have read the Philip Pullman trilogy, are you excited about the Golden Compass film released later this year? I am torn between utter excitement and true fear that it won't match up to the book!

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Tuesday's Questions

2007-05-15T20:43:00.000Z

On discovering I had absolutely no "oomph" today, I headed over to the Daily Meme website for some inspiration and found Tina's Tuesday questions, so I decided to have a go today. The questions today are all about Food.

1. What was the last food you ate?
Chicken and Pasta Bake in Creamy Tomato Sauce, topped with Garlic and Herb Cheese. (Okay so it was leftovers from yesterday, but it tasted good!)

2. What is your favourite food to eat for dinner?
I love Italian, pretty much in any form, but the meal I can eat at any time, no matter what, is Chicken Caesar salad with a jacket potato with sour cream on the side.

3. What kind of food do you refuse to eat no matter what?
Any kind of red meat, any fish or sea food, anything with indian spices, peanut butter, pumpkin and any form of berry (bar strawberries of course). And I don't think I would even try Jellied Eels, the look puts me off even putting it in my mouth!!

However, everything I dislike, I have tried at least once. I have little time for people who say they hate something, yet when asked have never tried it!

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Monday Melee

2007-05-14T18:57:00.000Z

The Monday Melee, a Fracas Project
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The idea is to answer the following questions posed by Fracas.
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1. The Misanthropic: Name something (about humanity) you absolutely hate.
Ignorance - there is so much information available, about any chosen subject, that ignorance is unforgivable.

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2. The Meretricious: Expose something or someone that’s phony, fraudulent or bogus.
Our governmental system. Need I say anymore!
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3. The Malcontent: Name something you’re unhappy with.
The price we pay for petrol.

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4. The Meritorious: Give someone credit for something and name it if you can.
Baz Luhrmann - for his fantastic films, I have loved everyone!
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5. The Mirror: See something good about yourself and name it.
My ears - although I went through a lot of pain to get them so neat. (I may even tell that story one day!:)
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6. The Make-Believe: Name something you wish for.
Gonna be selfish this time, a baby. I am at that stage in life when all my friends are starting families and it just don't seem to be happening for me. (Having fun practicing though. ;)
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Happy Monday and Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Back Pain

2007-05-13T08:24:00.000Z

Well, what a couple of days.

Hubby got home from work on Thursday, doubled over in pain, having pulled his back, wait for it, walking down the stairs!! It is a recurrence of an old injury, in which one of his ribs detaches from the spine. It pops back in of its own accord, but leaves him in severe muscular pain. So Thursday evening was spent taking care of him. He did not go to work Friday, which is a big thing for him being self employed. But yesterday came and he was no better and was having real trouble breathing anything other than very shallow breaths, so I had to take him to our local A&E. Three hours plus later we left with him dosed up to the eyeballs in muscle relaxants and pain killers. Nothing major serious, but his muscles were in spasm. Just what I had planned for my Saturday evening!

Today I have the pleasure of my niece coming to stay. She lives in South Africa and is coming to the UK for a few months. At the moment she is staying with us for 2 1/2 months of that. It is going to be an experience - I have not lived with an 18 year old for some time! I just hope she finds work like she has promised.

I am going to leave you with a quote from Epictetus:

"There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will."

Something which is very easy to say, but very difficult in practice.

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Booking Through Thursday

2007-05-10T18:49:00.000Z

Booking Through Thursday posts a new question about books or reading each thursday.

Today's is: Where DON’T you read??

Well the first answer that pops into my head is "nowhere", but as I start to think about it in more depth, I suppose there are certain places!

The first place that comes to mind is at work, probably because that may get me fired. However, I do always have a book on my desk for reading at lunchtime.

I also never read in the cinema, but that is probably because its too dark. I can (and do) read whilst watching TV or a film and am able to give you a run down of both at the end!

And I never, ever read in the car - it makes me very car sick, even just looking at the map!

And to be honest, I think that is about it. I generally have at least 2, sometimes 3, books on the go at any one time. I am often asked how do I remember which characters are in which story, but I just do. I read pretty much any genre, by any author, set in any time. But I cannot and will not finish a book that does not engage me by chapter 3. I think that 3 chapters is a fair trial for an author to prove the book is worth reading.

One thing I find very hard to understand is when people say they don't enjoy to read. Reading transports you into other worlds, times and places, allows you to meet new people, discover new experiences. What is there not to enjoy?

Blessings to all
Daisy Cat xx

Words!

2007-05-08T19:47:00.000Z

I love words - English, French, Spanish - well, in any language really. English was my favourite subject at school. I also love to read - books, magazines, newspapers, websites, blogs, the list goes on.

I have favourite words. Effervescence, giggle, bubbles - the word changes, depending on my mood, the weather or even the day of the week. I have found that most people do, if you raise the subject in conversation.

One of my favourite websites is www.dictionary.com. They offer a daily email giving you their word of the day. They send some amazing words, but 90% of them I have never managed to fit into an everyday conversation! I must visit this website at least three times a week, as I hate to not know what the definition of a word is.

This problem with having a love of words is that it led into a love of fonts, especially when it comes to scrapbooking. I have an uncountable number of fonts installed on my computer, but choosing the right one for a particular page has become a bit a nightmare. If anyone has any hints or tips on how they choose a font for any given situation, I would love to hear them.

I am going to leave you with my favourite word of all time so far: triskaidekaphobia. This literally means "the fear of Friday 13th" but has also come to mean "the fear of the number 13". As my birthday falls on Friday 13th in certain years (and the 13th every year) it would be very difficult for me to suffer from this phobia and still celebrate my birthday!

Blessing to all.
Daisy Cat xx

Monday Melee

2007-05-07T10:27:00.000Z

The Monday Melee, a Fracas Project

The idea is to answer the following questions posed by Fracas.

1. The Misanthropic: Name something (about humanity) you absolutely hate.

Bigotry - I strongly feel that in this day and age, it is completely unacceptable to be so intolerant of another individuals beliefs or opinions. I am not saying you have to agree with everybody, but disagreement should be the starting point to an open and frank discussion, not the excuse to hate somebody. If you still don't agree, then agree to disagree.

2. The Meretricious: Expose something or someone that’s phony, fraudulent or bogus.

The creams that leading companies claim to make wrinkles or cellulite disappear. The Advertising Standards Authority have picked on individual companies in the past, but I personally do not believe any of the claims made. Please, grow old gracefully and have a face with a little personality.

3. The Malcontent: Name something you’re unhappy with.

Banks! Need I say any more. I truly believe they have forgotten that they are, basically, a service industry and not there purely to make a profit whilst having no regard for their customer.

4. The Meritorious: Give someone credit for something and name it if you can.

My beloved husband - for sticking at his business, although it is going through a really tough time financially. He started the company to make peoples dreams come true and it has become about the £ label we can give to each customer and this really stings. But he is fighting it and when the tough time passes, he can return to the dreams.

5. The Mirror: See something good about yourself and name it.

My eyes. They are truly the best thing about me, I believe. They are the darkest chocolate brown, with long eyelashes. But you can tell when I am starting to get angry, they go almost black!

6. The Make-Believe: Name something you wish for.

It would be very easy to go for the "world peace" answer for this, but honestly, I think my answer would have to be for each person to do one thing nice to another person, friend or stranger, each day, in a completely selfless way.

I am going to try to complete this each week, but will honestly have to see how it goes.

Blessings to all

Daisy Cat xx

Introduction to Creation Junction

2007-05-07T00:11:00.000Z

Having contemplated a blog for some time, I have finally taken the plunge! How scary!! I do not even really know what I plan to blog, although I think it is going to be mainly about my crafting interests.

These include, but are not limited to: scrapbooking - both paper and digital, cardmaking, dressmaking, patchwork and, the most recent addition, making jewellery. I dabble in various other crafts at times, there is pretty much nothing I will not try once.

I suppose some info about me is in order. I am very happily married to my gorgeous soulmate and we have three very cute baby substitutes in the form of Sophie, a blue and white British Shorthair, Mini-me, a Bengal and Louis, a blue British Shorthair, seen in that order in the photo below.We are currently trying for a "proper" baby, although this is proving more difficult than either of us ever imagined, but the trying is fun. I do, however, have three wonderful godchildren of almost 9 years, 6 years and 20 months. They keep me busy, especially the 6 year old, who adores to be sat at my dining table with my crafting supplies.

Hubby and I run our own company (with the assistance of 2 other directors), which has been the largest learning curve I have ever experienced. We set it up almost 3 years ago and we are still going, well just about. Balancing all the various aspects of running a company is not for the feint-hearted! If you have any interest in Customised and Modified Cars, check out our website - Twisted Vision. Even I enjoy the finished product and I assure you, I am not a huge car lover!

Well, I think that is enough rambling for day one. I have no doubt that you will learn more than you ever wished to know about me over my coming posts.

Blessings to all.

Daisy Cat xx