Chat with Me- Anytime Anywhere

[Lauren]

I thought it might be nice to have a thread here where we could all chat anytime - not necessarily have to wait till our alloted hour on Thursday nights. And this week seemed like a great time to start it as there wont be a chat this week due to the Christchurch Retreat.
We can use this thread for any type of chat - doesnt even have to be DSP related - we end up talking food at most of our chats anyway!!!- so feel free to drop in and ask a question or post what you are up to or what recipe youve just cooked. - If youve got a good Margarita recipe that wont go astray at all either!!

I'll come here and let you know what Im up to lately and you might even get a sneak peek at new kits and ideas Ive got - you can also make suggestions for kits you want to see me make too. - In essense this is just a place a bit like a local coffee shop we can all pop into and catch up for a bit.

[Lauren]

Its Sunday here today and another gorgeous day - weve had a wonderful summer here in Auckland - the weather isnt very conducive to sitting inside in fronto of a computer screen!
Ive got a fairly busy week ahead with 2 lots of bonuses to make due to the retreat at the end of the week. Also got to do a lot of end of month admin duties this week before I go on Friday morning.
CathieMarie is here in NZ and is currently off with some friends of hers touring the Bay of Islands area and she is getting a bus back to here on Thursday so I need to pick her up then and then I'll be organising myself for the retreat.
Im organising breakfasts and Saturday Lunch for the retreat ladies so that means making up breakfast packs up for the 3 apartments . Lunch hopefully we will do all together.
Ive planned quite a big photo walk. - Probably longer than any other one weve done but theres so much to see in Christchurch and lots going on. Its a city known for its gardens and Feb/March is the annual festival of flowers . They have some big topiaries scattered around the city so I hope to be able to take in some of those.
There is also a Tram ride involved in the photo walk that will take us near the restaurant we are eating dinner at a restaurant beside the river.
In addition there is a parade of lights for Chinese New year in the evening so hopefully we can catch that after our dinner .
Im looking forward to the event and hope we get some good weather!!

[AliceMattison]

Oh my, Lauren, you certainly have a busy week! The retreat and photo walk sound like a wonderful event and how nice that you will get to see CathieMarie again. I love hearing about your beautiful country and the things going on in your life.

[Lauren]

Ive also got to take my beach photos for this week. If you arent aware Im doing a P:52 this year - one photo a week which isnt too stressful but Ive chosen the theme of Auckland beaches - and yes I easily will be able to do a different beach for each of the 52 weeks of the year as there are countless beaches in Auckland. - I want to take the further away beaches while the weather is good and so when we get some wet winter weather I can resort to the closer beaches and dont have to travel too far !! You can check out my album so far in the P365 gallery http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showgallery.php?cat=7040

[timelord]

Hi Lauren, I am still gutted that I could make the retreat. More so the closer it gets. (The one weekend a year my husband has dibs as is a big motorbike racing event on that he races in). Will have to come from Christchurch to the Auckland one next year. We have a season pass for the gondola and live 5mins walk from it. As one child is at a birthday party, the other one want to go up the gondola. I think it is more the treat of buying an icecream at the top which is the attraction, and going on the Time Tunnel ride for the umpteeth time.
I am doing the P52 using your wonderful templates, but am a bit behind in putting them up. Might be an this evening job after the ironing ;)

[Lauren]

Feel free to join us for the photo walk and or dinner on Friday - I can give you my cell phone number if you are free and want to meet up

[Noremacc]

That photo walk sounds like a lot of fun! I wish I could come! Hope everyone has a great time!!

[timelord]

Would love to join you, but dont like my chances. I am free 9- 3 the Friday, then not until 8pm (school disco, then taking 1 child to camp). I see the dinner on Friday is 6.30 so I think you would be pretty much done and dusted by the time I got there.

[Lauren]

Yes thats not great timing unfortunately - I doubt we will get to the city much before 2 or 2.30.
We are hoping to catch the lantern festival parade around from around 8.30ish at the cathedral square but i imagine it will be pretty crowded there

[timelord]

Never mind. Just wasnt meant to be- this time

[mrshuberism]

I am on again off again on the internet so forgive me if this is a question with a commonly known answer.
Lauren do you plan tours or events? It seems you are almost always involved in one of some sort every time I am here. lol Sounds like you live in the perfect region to own a bed & breakfast and your photographic eye would make you a selling point for sure??

[Lauren]

Its actually one of my dreams to own a bed and breakfast but sadly the bank balance wont cooperate - maybe one of these years!!
And No I dont plan tours or events commercially but I do always seem to have something to plan for my DSP friends. - Maybe I should do event plannning for a job !!!

[Lauren]

I can tick one job off my list. - Ive finished this weeks Gimme More Posting bonus.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/744/07_K_CoastalReserve.jpg

Now on to the next task..... - coffee first....

[happybeingamom]

Lauren

I think this thread is a great idea.

Will you give us sneak peaks to kits you are making?

[mrshuberism]

My hubby and I have talked about a B&B as he cooks and I organize, but I am only good with people remotely (web & phone) so no go for us there, lol. Well there always seems to be people saying great things about the trips they take that include you, I am not attentive enough to know how many of them are you going verses them coming, so????

As long as it doesn't take to much from your photo and kit making time, lol, my books would suffer horribly without your kits.

[Lauren]

Lauren

I think this thread is a great idea.

Will you give us sneak peaks to kits you are making?

Sure can if you would like me to!!

[Lauren]

My hubby and I have talked about a B&B as he cooks and I organize, but I am only good with people remotely (web & phone) so no go for us there, lol. Well there always seemsto be people saying great things about the trips they take that include you, I am not attentive enough to know how many of them are you going verses them coming, so????
Well finances are such that there wont be much of me coming there in the foreseeable future which is depressing but its nice to see my DSP friends here none the less

[Noremacc]

Sure can if you would like me to!!

The answer to that would be Yes!! :tup:

[Lauren]

Well Ive been doing posting bonuses ( which you've seen) and then boring boring admin stuff today - but I did get 3 big jobs ticked off my list today so Im feeling better than I did this morning in that regard.
Tomorrow its onto the posting bonus for the peacock kit and put together the VC from Desert Blooms and its posting bonuses.
Maybe the next day I will get to a new product!!

[Lauren]

BTW did you see my pick of the pack on my blog today??
http://create4u.blogspot.com/2011/02/pick-of-packfebruary-21-for-rent-by.html

[Jeanrx]

Good choice on POTP! Sandy always does such a good job on her LO's.

I have a question - when shooting in RAW & jpeg, does the battery run down faster? I took quite a few pictures yesterday & noticed the battery is real low.

[Lauren]

Yes it will use more battery Jean but it shouldnt be REALLY noticeable- but it does take more power to write 2 versions of each shot to your card.
Using the flash will run down the battery much faster too.

[Lauren]

Todays job is getting supplies for breakfast packs for the apartments for the retreat in Christchurch.
The last retreat we had was one large house so we were all breakfasting together - this time we are split between 3 apartments so I need to make up some breakfast packs.
After that I need to get back here and get some more designing work done and more boring administration work too.- Maybe I can split myself in two and send half of myself out to do the shopping !

[webfrau]

Maybe I can split myself in two and send half of myself out to do the shopping !

Just give me your credit card and I'll go shopping :D;)

[Jeanrx]

That was probably it, Lauren. I did use the flash also. I never worry about the battery in that camera, but I better get a backup.

Yes it will use more battery Jean but it shouldnt be REALLY noticeable- but it does take more power to write 2 versions of each shot to your card.
Using the flash will run down the battery much faster too.

[Lauren]

Just give me your credit card and I'll go shopping :D;)

My credit card wouldnt do you much good lately.... sigh....

[swatkins56]

Hi Lauren, I'll join the thread. I might start going to my Aqua Fit class on Thursday nights, so I'll miss the regular chats. But I don't want to miss you - nor the announcement of the next challenge kit.

[evergreen100]

Devastated to hear of the earthquake in NZ, horror stories on the news this afternoon:cry::cry:...hope all of our NZ DSPers are safe :pray:

[Lauren]

Yes it looks dreadful. I feel so much for those poor people who've been through so much already and now this.

[LynnT]

I'm so glad you've started this too! My heart is aching for everyone in NZ, and yes hoping all the DSPers are safe too.

[Lauren]

Due to the cancellation of the retreat i will hold a chat on Thursday as normal btw.

[Memouse]

I hope that all of you down in NZ are able to make it threw this horrible situation.

[timelord]

Hi,
I'm in Christchurch and have limited and slow internet access so havent checked other threads or posts. My house is about 500m from the epicentre and I was in it alone at the time - very very scary. Anyway all my family and pets are Ok and we are staying at my mums who has power and water. Here we are only 10kms from the centre of town, but there is no damage at all. Home is a bit sad but Ok to live in once we have power and water. Just not sure when that will be.
I feel extremely lucky that my family are all OK - as my husband came close to being crushed by a falling building. We are still praying that more people will be pulled out alive, I cannot image how it must be for their loved ones.
I cant look through threads where I am as the computer keeps crashing, but I hope that Honeymoon is OK.
Michelle

[honeymoon]

Hi,
I'm in Christchurch and have limited and slow internet access so havent checked other threads or posts. My house is about 500m from the epicentre and I was in it alone at the time - very very scary. Anyway all my family and pets are Ok and we are staying at my mums who has power and water. Here we are only 10kms from the centre of town, but there is no damage at all. Home is a bit sad but Ok to live in once we have power and water. Just not sure when that will be.
I feel extremely lucky that my family are all OK - as my husband came close to being crushed by a falling building. We are still praying that more people will be pulled out alive, I cannot image how it must be for their loved ones.
I cant look through threads where I am as the computer keeps crashing, but I hope that Honeymoon is OK.
Michelle

So glad to hear from you. We are all ok too.

Michelle if you go into your "My account" options on the DSP site you can turn off the display of everyone's signatures etc so that the threads will load quicker.

If you need anything look me up in the phone book and give me a ring - initals S & F.

[Jeanrx]

Glad to hear you & yours are OK, Michelle. Still praying that more will be found alive. The pictures we are getting here in the US are frightening.

[LynnT]

I'm so relieved to hear that you and your families are ok Fiona & Michelle! My prayers continue to go out to the people of NZ.

[Lauren]

Thank goodness you are safe and well Michelle . All our thoughts are with you and the rest of the city. Sending virtual hugs .
We in the rest of the country are with you in spirit .

[Lauren]

Cathie is back here with me now. We went to air nz and she's swapped her flight for one to queenstown in march and we've organized her a trip to Milford sound as well .
Unfortunately I can't be going with her but I'm sure she will enjoy it . I've also suggested to her a tour to arrowtown and the wineries on a restored 1937 convertible bus and a trip on the steamer earnslaw .

[Tina]

Hi,
I'm in Christchurch and have limited and slow internet access so havent checked other threads or posts. My house is about 500m from the epicentre and I was in it alone at the time - very very scary. Anyway all my family and pets are Ok and we are staying at my mums who has power and water. Here we are only 10kms from the centre of town, but there is no damage at all. Home is a bit sad but Ok to live in once we have power and water. Just not sure when that will be.
I feel extremely lucky that my family are all OK - as my husband came close to being crushed by a falling building. We are still praying that more people will be pulled out alive, I cannot image how it must be for their loved ones.
I cant look through threads where I am as the computer keeps crashing, but I hope that Honeymoon is OK.
Michelle


We are so glad to hear from you Michelle! We were all worried! :hug:

[Lauren]

Just a reminder too that I will be holding a chat today at 9pm Eastern - I even have a chat bonus for you!

[Lynnie]

Hi,
I'm in Christchurch and have limited and slow internet access so havent checked other threads or posts. My house is about 500m from the epicentre and I was in it alone at the time - very very scary. Anyway all my family and pets are Ok and we are staying at my mums who has power and water. Here we are only 10kms from the centre of town, but there is no damage at all. Home is a bit sad but Ok to live in once we have power and water. Just not sure when that will be.
I feel extremely lucky that my family are all OK - as my husband came close to being crushed by a falling building. We are still praying that more people will be pulled out alive, I cannot image how it must be for their loved ones.
I cant look through threads where I am as the computer keeps crashing, but I hope that Honeymoon is OK.
Michelle

Michelle - we have all been so worried - you were the last of our christchurch friends to check it. I am so glad you and your family are okay!

[Lauren]

Im going to take Cathie out to the shops this morning my time - I'll be back in time for the chat though.
The earthquake has had some far reaching effects. ( though completely unimportant in the scheme of things) - we were due to have a national census on March 8th - My son Matthew was hired to be a census official and was excitedly planning exactly how to spend the $2000 in wages he was getting but the census has now been cancelled for this year which is the only logical thing they could do in the situation .
Theyve actually passed a law to relax the privacy laws so that emergency officials can give out information to people worried about those missing
Some scumbags were caught stealing cellphone tower generators - and the police are opposing bail - im sure this must be a first to oppose bail for a theft charge - but in the light of this situation I hope they throw the book at them and any of the other few complete scumbags who are taking advantage of the situation.

[Lynnie]

I always think that looters and people who take advantage in disasters should be shot on the spot. Rather bloodthirsty, I know, but we are dealing with enough in the way of a disaster without people looting, etc. I think about the poor kids praying for their mother to be rescued (she wasn't) then going home to find their home looted. It fries my pajamas!

On another note, today is miserable for me at work. Tons of stuff to be done and no time to do it. I missed last night's chat because of an emergency work thing. I'm ready to retire or get rich - it can't come soon enough...

[Lauren]

Me too Lynnie, well the get rich bit anyway.. I like my job too much to retire!

[Jeanrx]

I think there is a special place in hell for looters in these disasters. I agree, they should be shot on the spot!

[timelord]

Hi all, Thanks forn your concerns. Back home now as we have power and yay internet! Still have not got water but thats OK.

I would have to be all patriotic and say how proud I am to be a Cantabrian and a Kiwi. Apart from the odd idiot out there, most people are just amazing and are giving their all. Also the response from other countries has been amazing... goes to show that we all do look after each other in times of need.
Anyway gotta go.

[Lauren]

Yay Michelle!!- thats great you have power and internet - Id take internet over water any day!!( ok well maybe not but well.......)

[Cathiemarie]

I'm so glad our DSPeeps from Christchurch are all OK, the news from Christchurch is so sad. I can hardly watch TV or read the newspaper without filling up with tears. It's so dreadful that words just cant express.

On a lighter note, I've seen some of the most spectacular scenery in the North Island and I just posted the first LO I've done in like forever. If you've time to look its here to see.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/2610/thumbs/Sunset-over-Taurikura.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=381663&title=sunset-over-taurikura&cat=2610)
Sunset over Taurikura (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=381663&title=sunset-over-taurikura&cat=2610)
A very stark contrast between this and pictures of New Zealand that we've been seing lately. This is a truly beautiful country and I hope and pray New Zealand can recover from this dreadful disaster and once again people can focus on the beauty of these islands rather on the awful devastation. The comradarie and concern for each other has moved me and it has restored some of my faith in human kindness, despite the scum who are looting.

[Cathiemarie]

Just a reminder too that I will be holding a chat today at 9pm Eastern - I even have a chat bonus for you!

and very gorgeous it is too. It reminds me of the Goldwork Embroidery I used to do - humpff, no time for that now since I discovered Digital Scrapbooking.:tup:

[Lauren]

and very gorgeous it is too. It reminds me of the Goldwork Embroidery I used to do - humpff, no time for that now since I discovered Digital Scrapbooking.:tup:

This should be in the store in a few days

[Lauren]

I just finished my week 8 for my p52 - just in the nick of time -
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=381676

[Lauren]

You asked me for sneak peeks... - well heres one - something a bit different - Im not close to finished yet but let me know if theres anything you want in a kit with this styling
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/Untitled-1.jpg

[webfrau]

This looks fun - can't wait to see the finished product.

[Jeanrx]

Looks like it will be a fun kit to work with. I like the doodley look.

[happybeingamom]

You asked me for sneak peeks... - well heres one - something a bit different - Im not close to finished yet but let me know if theres anything you want in a kit with this styling
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/freebies/Lauren/previews/Untitled-1.jpg

looks like a fun and bold kt!

[LynnT]

You asked me for sneak peeks... - well heres one - something a bit different - Im not close to finished yet but let me know if theres anything you want in a kit with this styling
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/freebies/Lauren/previews/Untitled-1.jpg

This is so cute! and pretty to close to what I'm looking for. I can't tell if you've already done the 4 pprs... I'm looking for a gray - something for this photo to go with http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/IMG_8798.jpgAva (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=381829&title=ava&cat=500)

Maybe you need a ribbon to go with the kit

[Lauren]

It turned into an xs value collection - a kit and an element set - it will be in the store in a few days
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/freebies/Lauren/previews/07_XSVC_Zigaloo.jpg

and the chat freebie for this week is a backpack that goes with it
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/07_B_BlackWhiteRed.jpg

[Lauri]

Oh wow!! This looks so zingy and fun!! Nice job Lauren!

[happybeingamom]

Love the kit and backpack Lauren.

I need to work this into the budget.

[happybeingamom]

Just curious, what was the inspiration for this kit?

[LynnT]

omg ... this is a great collection!!!! I love it!

[happybeingamom]

I love that we get to see sneak peeks of new kits.

[Lauren]

im glad you like the sneak peeks - you arent a very chatty lot in here- well not as much as you are at the gimme chats!
I hope to see you at todays gimme chat - the chat bonus is a backpack that coordinates with the featured collection.
Yesterday I took Cathiemarie out shopping and she forced me to buy some clothes cause she just KNOWS i need them ( not) - She did buy a few herself actually as well!!
It was supposed to be rainy today but it looks gorgeous out right now so I might take her out to do a bit of sightseeing/photography this morning while the weather is holding up.
We had a lovely sunrise this morning which is not usual for us ( we face west so dont usually see much of the sunrise )

[Lauren]

Just curious, what was the inspiration for this kit?

Actually i really didnt have much inspiration for that collection - Id decided to do a black kit and started out with one of the little quirky flowers - then i remembered that the colours of Canterbury (the area that had the big earthquake- Christchurch is a city in the Canterbury region) are black and red - so I decided to add in the red as a little sign of support.

[Lynnie]

that is such a sweet thing to do Lauren! Every little expression of support has to help!

[Mars]

hurray I made it on PAGE 5!!!

nice place you have here elbee... love what you did with the boulder

[nekobus]

That's a nice boulder.

[Cathiemarie]

For those who were at Laurens Chat, I'm going to post the photo of Lauren's No2 son with his face painted black and red when we get back from Tennis.

[Jeanrx]

Oh good, I wanted to see that. I'm sure it will go with the new kit too.

[addielee]

and very gorgeous it is too. It reminds me of the Goldwork Embroidery I used to do - humpff, no time for that now since I discovered Digital Scrapbooking.:tup:

Sounds like me with my cross stitch and embroidery.

[addielee]

Hi Lauren, just wanted to say again how much I LOVE Zigaloo!

[Cathiemarie]

That's a nice boulder.

Boulder? what boulder? Did I miss something? was I sleeping?

[Lauren]

hurray I made it on PAGE 5!!!

nice place you have here elbee... love what you did with the boulder

huh???what boulder??

[Lauren]

That's a nice boulder.

Did i drink too much already ( and I havent started yet - ) - what boulder????????????

[Lauren]

Hi Lauren, just wanted to say again how much I LOVE Zigaloo!

Thanks! - it was fun to make!

[Lauren]

that is such a sweet thing to do Lauren! Every little expression of support has to help!

Actually Ive already donated to the red cross but ive decided to give $1 for every layout done with the zigaloo kit for gimme - so spread the word and get lots of people to do layouts and I will donate lots!!

[Cathiemarie]

Actually Ive already donated to the red cross but ive decided to give $1 for every layout done with the zigaloo kit for gimme - so spread the word and get lots of people to do layouts and I will donate lots!!

Check this out, it's Lauren's No2 son supporting the cause (He will kill me when he sees this but it's for a good cause).

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/5586/Matt-in-B-_-R.jpg

Here's the link to Laurens blog, it gives you more info on what to do to get a free kit from Lauren and help the Christchurch Earthquake victims at the same time. http://create4u.blogspot.com/2011/03/my-little-contribution-to-christchurch.html

[LynnT]

omg cathie... you seemed so calm when you saw him walk in... I would of freaked!!! Good job Lauren painting his face!

[Mars]

Actually Ive already donated to the red cross but ive decided to give $1 for every layout done with the zigaloo kit for gimme - so spread the word and get lots of people to do layouts and I will donate lots!!

this is wonderful thing to do and also a way we can all contribute... hope we see LOTS of layouts.

[LynnT]

Reminder Lauren - Almost Spring BP needs to go into store if you gonna sell it separately.

Did I mention ... my DS wedding colors are black (almost - gunmetal gray) and red. Save you a lot of money - the wedding isn't until October!

[Lauren]

Ok so dark grey and red and weddingy- is it a formal wedding or a casual wedding?

[Noremacc]

Love that photo of your son!! looks like he is having a great time!

[LynnT]

Ok so dark grey and red and weddingy- is it a formal wedding or a casual wedding?

its still at the deciding stages... they both want a garden or sunset/no beach but she just wants to get married & go home - he wants a formal w/o the coat & tie.... he'd rather wear slippers - real local lol. but he told me to make the invitations formal. I finally found the rgb for the gunmetal: 292e37 and the red is d40000 (pretty close to zigaloo). I told them they have to either add a white or silver in there.

she likes casa blana lilies and he likes white ginger - I don't know if either is in season in October.

[doda]

Great picture Cathie...thanks for sharing.

[Chellie]

Cool challenge and great cause. Count me in! :p

[honeymoon]

Thank you Lauren for thinking of us... it's funny when I saw the kit I thought Red and Black for Canterbury.

When I get home I will be buying the new kit of course.

[Lynnie]

It's a great kit and very easy to use. My layout came together in a really short time and most of the work was on the picture itself...

[Lynnie]

Anyone have any experience with downsizing? I'm moving to a smaller place coming up on a few months. My house is five bedroom house, 2800 square feet and I have a pool and a 3 car garage. I'm moving to a little house with just two bedrooms. Any good tips for getting rid of stuff??

[webfrau]

Send me the expensive stuff. :)

[Lauren]

Lol- yeah my kids want a pool so you can send that here....

[JanP]

Anyone have any experience with downsizing? I'm moving to a smaller place coming up on a few months. My house is five bedroom house, 2800 square feet and I have a pool and a 3 car garage. I'm moving to a little house with just two bedrooms. Any good tips for getting rid of stuff??

We did that nearly two years ago Lynnie - went from 5 bedrooms to two - one of which is my office. But my solution would probably not suit you unless you have a daughter just setting up house! :lol: That's where a lot of our furniture and whitewear went. Also DH's two sons almost emptied the garage of tools and equipment. Everything else was auctioned.

[LynnT]

It's amazing how much stuff we can accumulate. I've swept through my apt 4 times over the pass 2 years getting rid of stuff. I prefer to give it away to people who need them and if not I donate to Goodwill, Salvation Army or Boys & Girls... With as much stuff as you (speaking to Lynnie) might have in your house, you might put in paper first and then have a garage sale. (Keeping in mind) going back to basics is a good thing. Good Luck!

[Cathiemarie]

Lauren, I just wanted to say hope all goes well today at your appointment with the errrrmmm Motor Mechanic's!!!

Anyone have any experience with downsizing? I'm moving to a smaller place coming up on a few months. My house is five bedroom house, 2800 square feet and I have a pool and a 3 car garage. I'm moving to a little house with just two bedrooms. Any good tips for getting rid of stuff??

Have Cathie come over to sift through it all, she'll get the job done in no time - no emotional ties and she loves clearing clutter.:love3:

Lol- yeah my kids want a pool so you can send that here....

And where do you propose to put it Miss Lauren, in the Rumpus Room??? :rofl:

[Lauren]

Thanks Cathie!- For those that dont know Im going for some horribly expensive tests today for a small problem with my womens bits. - The tests are covered by my medical insurance but only if i need surgery - so im in 2 minds - I dont really want surgery but I dont want to be down $1500 either..... - My GP thinks I do need surgery and the gyn doc indicated it might be in my future but he needs to do these tests first.....

[Chardonnay]

Only just discovered this thread ... how do you keep up with everything that's going on here?? Good luck for the tests, Lauren. :yes:

[Lauren]

Gimme Bonuses are done!!
Here they are

Chat bonus is a fun quick click I took from the layout I did for speedscrap last week
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/744/07_T_SplishSplash.jpg

Posting bonus is a similar style kit to the featured kit but in a different colour scheme.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/744/07_K_Zigalime.jpg

[Cathiemarie]

Thanks Cathie!- For those that dont know Im going for some horribly expensive tests today for a small problem with my womens bits. - The tests are covered by my medical insurance but only if i need surgery - so im in 2 minds - I dont really want surgery but I dont want to be down $1500 either..... - My GP thinks I do need surgery and the gyn doc indicated it might be in my future but he needs to do these tests first.....

But you didn't explain about the Mechanic Degree bit did you?:rofl::rofl:

[Cathiemarie]

Only just discovered this thread ... how do you keep up with everything that's going on here?? Good luck for the tests, Lauren. :yes:

Yay, Bet is in da house - how's it going in Christchurch Bet, have you got all the utilies working at your house yet. The electricity and sewage problem is just awful for all those who are still struggling on without. My heart goes out to you all.

[Lauren]

But you didn't explain about the Mechanic Degree bit did you?:rofl::rofl:

LOL no i didnt. My Gynae is a very educated man. Everytime I go he has a new certificate on his wall. - This time I was most suprised to see his latest degree was a degree in Mechanical Engineering - the mind boggles!!!!

[Cathiemarie]

WARNING don't look at this unless you want to join in :love3::love3::love3:

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/2610/thumbs/Matthew9.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382273&title=warning&cat=2610)
Warning (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382273&title=warning&cat=2610)

Click on my Travel Blog if you've time to see what me and Lauren have been upto this past few weeks. Leave me a note on my message board if you like, it'd be great to hear from ya.

[Chardonnay]

Yay, Bet is in da house - how's it going in Christchurch Bet, have you got all the utilies working at your house yet. The electricity and sewage problem is just awful for all those who are still struggling on without. My heart goes out to you all.

Hi there. Yes, we're all good with services on and working ... though I don't like to think where everything goes when we flush our loos. But we're told to do this now and that the rivers and sea will recover in time. We live on the fortunate western side of the city where we haven't been affected so badly as in the east. Schools are opening again this week and malls are already open, so life's getting back to normal as much as it's possible to after such an event.
Terrible to think what's still going on in city centre though. :no:

[Lynnie]

I got to meet son Steven's girlfriend's parents last night. I adore her and I got along famously with them. I always worry that people won't like me.

Lauren - the pool is on its way. Make room for it, I shipped it two day shipping.

Julia - the expensive stuff is on its way - rumour has it that customs will really ding you for it though :D

Cathie - what a good idea - you are hired! Room and board until July will be your payment. (I'm scared!)

Jan - Steven is moving out around the same time so lots will go to him, so is my niece. I've already got rid of half the stuff in my cupboards.

On top of everything - I was able to use the downsizing for the ultimate revenge. My daughter was always 'having a garage sale' but I would end up with tons of stuff for MONTHS in my garage. SO.... now she has a house, I have had Brian come three different times to get a full SUVload of stuff for their 'garage sale' that may happen one day eventually. I have more to come :D Revenge is sweet...

[Lynnie]

LOL no i didnt. My Gynae is a very educated man. Everytime I go he has a new certificate on his wall. - This time I was most suprised to see his latest degree was a degree in Mechanical Engineering - the mind boggles!!!!

Hopefully he didn't get mixed up and use a spanner to fix you up.

[Lauren]

Hi there. Yes, we're all good with services on and working ... though I don't like to think where everything goes when we flush our loos. But we're told to do this now and that the rivers and sea will recover in time. We live on the fortunate western side of the city where we haven't been affected so badly as in the east. Schools are opening again this week and malls are already open, so life's getting back to normal as much as it's possible to after such an event.
Terrible to think what's still going on in city centre though. :no:

Even up here I feel almost guilty living life as normal when so many down there are displaced!!

[Lauren]

So the good news and bad news re the tests.. I do need surgery but it's not as invasive as he thought it might be. It now will probably be done as a day stay or just an overnight stay in hospital. But the recovery is much longer than I thought.
They say return to work in 3 weeks!! That's about the same as it took for my hysterectomy which required 3 nights in hospital!! Of course I'll probably not stop work!! That's the joy of working from home .

[Lynnie]

Do we have to send you chocolate? See's or something?

[Lynnie]

Or maybe virtual flower layouts made with your kits?

[Lauren]

Ahh- Ill be fine !!- Ill have an excuse to have someone else cook for a couple of days!!- and perhaps have a sleep in maybe....

[Lauren]

Want a sneak peek of what im working on?
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/Untitled-2.jpg

[Lauri]

Wow, that new kit looks amazing Lauren!! I'm dying to see the whole thing!

[bendipez]

Lauren, preview looks soooo great!!!
Already have a LO in mind for it!!!

[Lauri]

So the good news and bad news re the tests.. I do need surgery but it's not as invasive as he thought it might be. It now will probably be done as a day stay or just an overnight stay in hospital. But the recovery is much longer than I thought.
They say return to work in 3 weeks!! That's about the same as it took for my hysterectomy which required 3 nights in hospital!! Of course I'll probably not stop work!! That's the joy of working from home .

Sorry to hear that you will need surgery, but at least the test and surgery will be covered by insurance. Thank goodness it won't be too invasive. Best of luck to you with the surgery, and I hope you won't be out of action, or in much pain, for too long!

[Jeanrx]

So the good news and bad news re the tests.. I do need surgery but it's not as invasive as he thought it might be. It now will probably be done as a day stay or just an overnight stay in hospital. But the recovery is much longer than I thought.
They say return to work in 3 weeks!! That's about the same as it took for my hysterectomy which required 3 nights in hospital!! Of course I'll probably not stop work!! That's the joy of working from home .

Hope everything goes well, Lauren. When is your surgery scheduled? We can't have you missing for long.:hug:

[Lauren]

the surgery is scheduled for March 23 - can you believe he wanted to do it on wednesday - yes THIS wednesday - i had to say uhhhh I dont think im ready for that!!.
I could have had it the following wednesday but decided it was better to wait till Cathie goes home so the 23rd it is...

[happybeingamom]

All should go well Lauren

The preview of your new kit looks great

[Lauren]

Heres another sneaky peeky
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/Untitled-3.jpg

[webfrau]

Looking most intriguing, can't wait for the big reveal.

[Maggie Macpaine]

How lovely. I love chats, especially when I am feeling unmotivated -- like right now.

Lauren, I hope your surgery goes well.

I have finished posting my grades for this grading quarter. Only one more quarter before another school year is complete. Time goes fast!!

[Noremacc]

Loving these sneaky peekys!! Can't wait to see the whole thing!!

[addielee]

Very interesting new kit. Thinking, thinking... I hope your surgery goes well. Hugs.

[PacificTonz]

Peeps of the new kit look very interesting ... can't wait to see the full thing.

Hope all goes well on the 23rd :-)

[Lauren]

Should get it in the store by tomorrow or the next day - Ive worked like a slave today and got 2 kits and an alphabet done... phew

[Lauren]

BTW nice to see you again Toni!!

[alamodedesigns]

Lauren
Love the kit peeps and hope all goes well with your surgery.

[Lauri]

Should get it in the store by tomorrow or the next day - Ive worked like a slave today and got 2 kits and an alphabet done... phew

Holy cow - 2 kits and an alpha in one day! You must have been super inspired!!

[terryl]

Ooooh--Lauren, the glimpses of your new kit are very intriguing. It looks like it's going to be gorgeous!! Glad to hear your surgery is not going to be as bad as you thought, but knowing you you'll be working on a kit while they are wheeling you into the operating room, then the coordinating alpha as soon as you wake up in recovery! Make sure to take it easy and that your family pampers you a bit!

[Lynnie]

What really amazes me, Lauren, is that you can take any style - elegant, funky, artsy, cute, modern, heritage... ALL of them and make them look amazing. Lots of designers in the industry produce a single style ad infinitum, but you go with the flow and often set the pace with fabulous, different and unique! This kit looks so different from anything you have done to date, but it is uniquely YOU.

Can't wait to get my hands on it and SCRAP my ART out.

[Lauren]

Ahh thanks Lynnie.. I aim to please!! I must say this style was fun and a little freeing.. Not having to stick to a formula now and then is nice.
I'm looking forward to using these kits today . I should get them in the store later ( still have to put the vc together.

[Lauren]

I heard from Cathie last night. She loves queenstown . She had done a trip on the steamer Earnslaw and gone up the gondola to see the views from the top. She is off on a full day trip to Milford sound today.

[Lynnie]

I'm checking the store every 5 minutes, so I hope you get on that VC pretty quickly :)

[Lauren]

How lovely. I love chats, especially when I am feeling unmotivated -- like right now.

Lauren, I hope your surgery goes well.

I have finished posting my grades for this grading quarter. Only one more quarter before another school year is complete. Time goes fast!!

Our school year has just started.. Thank goodness!! It's so much quieter with just me at home!!

[Lauren]

I'm checking the store every 5 minutes, so I hope you get on that VC pretty quickly :)

It's 6.29 am!! I'm not at the puter yet!! Will prob be a couple of hours !!
I have a headache so I'm enjoying a coffee in bed before I have to wake the troops.

[Lauren]

Did you know today is international womens day? Who inspires you the most?
Did you know NZ was the first country to give women the vote? Today I'm inspired by Kate Sheppard . I think the photo in this page is lovely don't you?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kate_Sheppard
Apart from the obvious, What I find inspiring is all the travel she did .it's not like she could hop on a plane and be on the other side of the world in a day!! It took weeks or monthsto sail from NZ to anywhere !!

[Lauren]

Heres a preview of the collection that i created yesterday
its queued for the store now
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/07_LVC_ArtJourney.jpg

Ive already done one layout with it which Im quite happy with - will post as soon as its in the store - Im about to start a second layout soon after a much needed coffee

[Lauren]

I may well make some additions to this collection - perhaps another kit or element set to go with it - because i think it could be expanded even further - ideas appreciated...

[Maggie Macpaine]

Well, she's not famous, but I'd have to say my mother inspires me the most. She's a great mom, and awesome grandma. She's willing to do almost anything at least once. She won't roller skate though, she fell down when she used my skates in Jr. High and decided that was enough.

I hope people think of me as highly as they do my mother when I'm her age.

[Jeanrx]

the surgery is scheduled for March 23 - can you believe he wanted to do it on wednesday - yes THIS wednesday - i had to say uhhhh I dont think im ready for that!!.
I could have had it the following wednesday but decided it was better to wait till Cathie goes home so the 23rd it is...

Sounds like a good plan. It gives you time to get ready.

[Jeanrx]

Don't mind my disjointed posts. We traveled from NC to NY & just got in today. We are visiting family & doing some babysitting duties. My DD left me a list a mile long, but since she will be out of town, I'll do what I want with DGD, Kaitlynn haha! I'll probably need a vacation after this trip!

[PQ]

Thanks Cathie!- For those that dont know Im going for some horribly expensive tests today for a small problem with my womens bits. - The tests are covered by my medical insurance but only if i need surgery - so im in 2 minds - I dont really want surgery but I dont want to be down $1500 either..... - My GP thinks I do need surgery and the gyn doc indicated it might be in my future but he needs to do these tests first.....

If you need any moral support or information, Lauren, knowledge about surgical procedures and postoperative care is one of my strong suits. I am happy to share everything I know with you..............

[timelord]

Lauren - dont let money come between you and your health. You cant put a price on your health.

I have some good news, good news. I dont want or need to get out of Christchurch, but my husbands work are sending him away for training and paying for us to go too! So on Friday we get to go to Hamilton for a week. Maybe not exciting if you live in Auckland, but I have only been to Auckland and Wellington in the North Island and cant wait to visit Rotorua. Thankfully I have some spending money for us tucked away so we can do touristy stuff. The kids will miss another week of school but at their age it wont matter much. So excited! Now the volcanoes up there had better not play up.....

[Lynnie]

Gotta love that new value collection - art journaling is an art form all its own!

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/518/thumbs/AJ-Bye-Clutter.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382447&title=bye-bye-clutter&cat=518)

[Maggie Macpaine]

Have fun on the trip Timelord. I'm jealous, cause I'm not going anywhere, at least not in the near future.

[Lauren]

Have a lovely trip Michelle. I love rotorua . I can recommend a few places to visit. If you like birds don't miss wingspan .they do a daily free flight show that's awesome.
I also like Paradise valley . I think it's much better than rainbow springs . As for geothermal parks my pick is waiotapu .
In Hamilton the Hamilton gardens are pretty and they have a nice little zoo .
How nice of your hubby's work to think of you and the kids and pay for you too!!

[Lauren]

Don't mind my disjointed posts. We traveled from NC to NY & just got in today. We are visiting family & doing some babysitting duties. My DD left me a list a mile long, but since she will be out of town, I'll do what I want with DGD, Kaitlynn haha! I'll probably need a vacation after this trip!

What a super grandma you Jean!! Can I adopt you???

[Lauren]

If you need any moral support or information, Lauren, knowledge about surgical procedures and postoperative care is one of my strong suits. I am happy to share everything I know with you..............

Thanks!! My surgeon gave me a leaflet that describes what he's doing in more detail than I really want to know!!!! The only bit I really don't like is having to come home with a catheter . I will need to go back the next day to have it removed . Probably more a cost saving so they dont have to keep you in overnight!!
My mothers cousin had the same procedure 5 years ago with the same surgeon but it wasn't successful ... Sigh.. I didn't need to know that.. Tho the leaflet says there is a 15% chance of failure so I'm counting on being the 85%.

[Jeanrx]

I must be out of my mind!

[Mars]

What really amazes me, Lauren, is that you can take any style - elegant, funky, artsy, cute, modern, heritage... ALL of them and make them look amazing. Lots of designers in the industry produce a single style ad infinitum, but you go with the flow and often set the pace with fabulous, different and unique! This kit looks so different from anything you have done to date, but it is uniquely YOU.

Can't wait to get my hands on it and SCRAP my ART out.

Word :tup:

[Mars]

the surgery is scheduled for March 23 - can you believe he wanted to do it on wednesday - yes THIS wednesday - i had to say uhhhh I dont think im ready for that!!.
I could have had it the following wednesday but decided it was better to wait till Cathie goes home so the 23rd it is...

Glad to hear you got a more convenient date... I hope the procedure goes well. :hug:

[timelord]

Have a lovely trip Michelle. I love rotorua . I can recommend a few places to visit. If you like birds don't miss wingspan .they do a daily free flight show that's awesome.
I also like Paradise valley . I think it's much better than rainbow springs . As for geothermal parks my pick is waiotapu .
In Hamilton the Hamilton gardens are pretty and they have a nice little zoo .
How nice of your hubby's work to think of you and the kids and pay for you too!!

Great thanks Lauren!!! Added to my list. We love birds - and Wingspan didnt show up on any of my `things to do' searches. Also not heard of Paradise Valley.

[Lauren]

Wingspan is just out of Rotorua - its quite hard to find so look it up on a map before you go - Its signposted off the main road but I missed it driving down the road the first time. - Make sure you go around the time of the show which is 2pm ( maybe plan to arrive just before which is what we did ) http://www.wingspan.co.nz

and Paradise Valley Springs has trout springs and other animals - and its a lovely place to spend a few hours. - I found it much less commercial than Rainbow Springs and much better value for money.

[Chardonnay]

Thought it was time I said hi again. Wonderful of so many of you lovely people to still be thinking of Christchurch and making contributions. Thanks to you all. Have been busy baby sitting grandchildren all day today and am tired, so hopefully we'll have a peaceful night with no more shakes - just had a 4.5 at 8 o'clock which got us all wide-eyed and alert, so we don't want any more of those ... :worried:

[Lauren]

I'll stop jumping around and see if that helps!!!

[timelord]

Hope they dont follow me up north!

[mum2riley]

Yea, that 4.5 tonight was not nice!

We're starting to get back to normal. Riley's Kindy opened again on Wednesday and its so good to get him out of the house and have some time to myself. If I don't watch the news its like nothing happened, there are no obvious signs of damage in our neighborhood.

[Jeanrx]

That's all you gals needed. I hope these aftershocks stop so you can get your lives back in order. You are in our thoughts & prayers.

[Chardonnay]

Yea, that 4.5 tonight was not nice!

We're starting to get back to normal. Riley's Kindy opened again on Wednesday and its so good to get him out of the house and have some time to myself. If I don't watch the news its like nothing happened, there are no obvious signs of damage in our neighborhood.

Yeah, we're the same. You can walk around here and think "Did anything actually happen?" Grandchildren's swimming lessons started again yesterday, so things are getting back to normal for us too. I feel sad for people who have been really badly affected though.

[mum2riley]

Which pool do your Grandchildren go too? I'm wondering if Riley's lessons will be back on this weekend, he has them at Jellie Park.

[Chardonnay]

Which pool do your Grandchildren go too? I'm wondering if Riley's lessons will be back on this weekend, he has them at Jellie Park.

They go to Kings Swim School on Main North Road, Upper Riccarton. It's a nice place and has been passed as safe. :tup:

[Cathiemarie]

I've just returned from the trip Lauren organised for me from Auckland to Queenstown (instead of my planned trip to Christchurch). I had the most fantastic experience. I am so glad Lauren pursuaded me to chose Queenstown and to do all the 'side' trips. I crammed so much into my short stay. The ride on the Gondola was breathtaking, the trip on the Earnshaw steam ship was delightful, and the sing-a-long at the end of the cruise was such fun (even though I was travelling alone). The day trip to Milford Sound was too magnificent and majestic for words to express my awe at these incredible sights. And, finally my tip on the Remarkable Experience vintage bus is to be highly recommended. Neville and Margaret, the proprietors, were the most delightful hosts, who were full of local knowledge and freely shared it with me, pointing out lots of local interests and stopping off at most unusual places. Arrowtown is an amazing olde worlde mining town and it has retained its charm. We ended up at a winery at Lake Hayes and the wine was so exquisite I bought and struggled back to Auckland with a mixed case wines.

[Chardonnay]

Which pool do your Grandchildren go too? I'm wondering if Riley's lessons will be back on this weekend, he has them at Jellie Park.

Sorry, main SOUTH Road ... quake must be affecting my brain ... :doh:

[Lynnie]

Sounds like life is getting back on track for our friends in Christchurch. It will probably never be the same - but life goes on, doesn't it....tough sometimes, but people are resilient. You all impress me so very much.

Cathie - I am so incredibly jealous. Incredibly, incredibly jealous... I can't wait to see your pictures.

[mum2riley]

They go to Kings Swim School on Main North Road, Upper Riccarton. It's a nice place and has been passed as safe. :tup:
So found out today that the council pools are all closed until further notice. I think I might send an email and see if I can get my term fees refunded or at least rolled over to use next term.

[mum2riley]

Sounds like you had a wonderful time Cathie!

[LynnT]

(Stupid) sirens almost all nite and (stupid) son didn't want to leave his flood zone apt = lack of sleep! I uploaded 4 pages of my zigaloo lo's and I'm going back to sleep! I hope the tsunami didn't affect you folks in NZ!

[Chardonnay]

(Stupid) sirens almost all nite and (stupid) son didn't want to leave his flood zone apt = lack of sleep! I uploaded 4 pages of my zigaloo lo's and I'm going back to sleep! I hope the tsunami didn't affect you folks in NZ!

No thank goodness, only very minor tsunami risk here - we are told to keep away from beaches though as the waves could get higher as the day goes on. Hope you were OK when yours arrived. :worried:

[Lauren]

Nothing here at this point - its low tide so any risk is lessened anyway - Cathies ferry still was operating so I dropped her off this morning to go to Corormandel.
Apparently some of the marinas have had stronger currents than normal

[Lauren]

I hear they just announced a nuclear emergency in northern Japan - that is NOT good news on top of all the devastation

[doda]

(Stupid) sirens almost all nite and (stupid) son didn't want to leave his flood zone apt = lack of sleep! I uploaded 4 pages of my zigaloo lo's and I'm going back to sleep! I hope the tsunami didn't affect you folks in NZ!

Glad to hear from you, I was worried. Hope all is okay.
The tsunami waves have just hit the lower coast of Oregon and caused damage at a port. All I've heard so far.

[Lauren]

ew radiation 1000 times normal in northern japan ... Not good news.

[LynnT]

oh no Lauren .. that's NOT good! How do we cover/protect ourselves from that?

Chardonnay & Doda - I'm fine thanks. I live at the base of a mountain so I felt safe but where my son lives, they were expecting a 6' wave that would go in a little more than 4 football fields. luckily the waves came in at 1-2 ft and I guess Maui got the worse of it - went in 1/3 of a mile.

hooo it went all the way up to Oregon!

[LynnT]

aha... I made a comment in the stores survey when I purchased the art journey yesterday about not being able to see the layouts.... Someone else in the chat yesterday said she missed seeing the layouts too.
Kim emailed me - it's there! "layout samples" right under the Add button!!!! I'm a happy camper!

[bendipez]

Glad none of us have had any tsunami damage. The Santa Cruz harbor did get banged up.
So far damage to boats and property there is around ten million dollars!!!
My mom lived about a mile from the harbor, wr are 75 miles north east of there so nothing up
This way......

[Lauren]

Yes glad we are all ok. I didnt even notice any change in the water here - though i believe some of the marinas up north did get some effect

[LynnT]

the news just on with photos of damage around the islands... some places did get hit with 6-9ft waves. Even though I live at the base of the mountain... the ocean is only about 2 miles from me ... I'm heading up the mountain next time.

[Lauren]

Lets hope there isnt a next time for a long time

[Lynnie]

Some of Karen's friends were working in Tokyo when it happened. I guess the people at Disneyland were stuck there for a long time - no power and the parking lot was flooded. Disney moved the staff to a safe location - whatever that means. I guess I am really really glad Karen didn't get her Tokyo contract last time out - her and Brian would be there right now.

[Lauren]

It's a lovely day here again today.. We really have had a good summer. I want to get out to another beach for my album today so have to convince Steve he wants to go too tho I know he wanted to go out in the boat.. He's barely used it this summer because the boys haven't been around or interested much . With the price of gas now I want to use his car!! His work pays for that gas!!!

[webfrau]

How funny you should mention the price of petrol (I wish someone would pay for mine), I've just finished a layout inspired by just that subject.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/2610/thumbs/petrol_web.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382626&title=how-high-will-it-go-3f&cat=2610)
How High Will it Go? (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382626&title=how-high-will-it-go-3f&cat=2610)

I missed the chat this week, I assume that the Art Journey Collection is this weeks Gimme kit?

[Lauren]

Great page Julia . Yes it is art journey this week!

[SilverHealer]

I'm joining this chat, too!

I love that layout, Julia. I'm planning on making one about the situation in Japan. I really didn't want to make a negative layout to start my art journaling with, but it would definitely reflect how I feel right now :(

[Lauren]

Welcome Mary- Im looking forward to seeing your layout - im really not so into the typical art journal page for myself but its fun to look at other peoples - well fun maybe not the right word - maybe a little voyeristic ... - Im going to stick with using the products for my travel type photos I think. - I really want to get my first ones done on canvas so i will have to save up - the chicago and las vegas ones in particular

[Lynnie]

I'm struggling with expressing myself eclectically rather than scrappingly - if that makes sense...

[Lauren]

Makes total sense to me thats why I cant really get into it - Im just not a heart on my sleeve type of gal... - even scrappingly I find it hard to put any emotions I have down on paper - and I think thats because when im sad its usually just for a short time - when im super happy it too is just for a short time - maybe im just a boring person - I live a very static life emotionally speaking... but Im not bothered by it - ... when I am sad I dont spend a lot of time analysing it because i feel like for me that would make me feel worse - I just give myself a virtual slap and get on with it .... - I guess I could scrap that virtual slap - I need to make a hand element!!

[Lynnie]

haha - definitely a hand element

[Lauren]

Ive finished this weeks Gimme More bonuses - you can check them out here
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382770 and http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=382769

[LynnT]

WOW 66 layouts!!!! Congratulations... I think. Well I'm sure the ChristChurch will really appreciate it.

[Lauren]

Yes that's $66 I will be donating.. I hope BP still has their offer on to
Match donations dollar for dollar .

[Mars]

Makes total sense to me thats why I cant really get into it - Im just not a heart on my sleeve type of gal... - even scrappingly I find it hard to put any emotions I have down on paper - and I think thats because when im sad its usually just for a short time - when im super happy it too is just for a short time - maybe im just a boring person - I live a very static life emotionally speaking... but Im not bothered by it - ... when I am sad I dont spend a lot of time analysing it because i feel like for me that would make me feel worse - I just give myself a virtual slap and get on with it .... - I guess I could scrap that virtual slap - I need to make a hand element!!

I think that makes you sound like an emotionally stable person... not boring.

[Maggie Macpaine]

Maybe you could just scrap a red handprint element. Then you don't have to try to figure out how to show the motion of the slap. Just the after effect :)

[Lauren]

I said id do something daily during birthday week and put it on my blog but you all asked for a daily chat -but it seems that isn't going to fit in with the birthday week plans so I'll go back to my original idea and do it all from my blog . It's probably easier that way for you because you won't have to be home at a specific time . I'm sorry to disappoint those of you who wanted a chat but hopefully this will be just as good .

[Mars]

aww that's disappointing, love the chats but thanks for still doing it from your blog!

[LynnT]

oh well... but that's ok... we can still chat HERE!!!! you guys still crack me no matter where the chat is!

[bendipez]

LynnT, where in Hawaii are you???

[Lauren]

oh well... but that's ok... we can still chat HERE!!!! you guys still crack me no matter where the chat is!

This is sooo true!! We absolutely can chat here.. I didn't think of that !! You are a genius Lynn!! I'll definitely post links here to my blog too .

[LynnT]

LynnT, where in Hawaii are you???

hi Brenda.. I'm in Makiki on the island of Oahu... 2nd street from where our President went to school.

[sandygb]

That works for me.... :)

[Maggie Macpaine]

We are on Spring Break!!!! Yeah!!!! I'm looking forward to a week off...well, sorta off. I have to paper mache two boulders this week. And plan out the details of my musical.

[SilverHealer]

How is everyone today? I got up EARLY for a Sunday and really enjoyed being the only one up :) I find that early morning is one of my best quiet/inspiring times, when a healthy dose of DSP and coffee get my creative juices flowing before DH, MIL, and MIL's boyfriend get up!

[Lauren]

I like to work in peace too!! I love it when everyones gone to school/uni/ work and I have the house to myself

[mum2riley]

Love peace and quiet. I'm lucky that Riley is now at Kindy 4 mornings a week so I actually have sometime to myself.

[Cathiemarie]

I like to work in peace too!! I love it when everyones gone to school/uni/ work and I have the house to myself

Are you suggesting I was the noisy one in your house??? :yippee::yippee::yippee:

[Chardonnay]

Hi everyone. All quiet here at the moment as DH is busy playing games on his computer!

[Jeanrx]

I like to work in peace too!! I love it when everyones gone to school/uni/ work and I have the house to myself

Isn't that the truth!

[Lauren]

Are you suggesting I was the noisy one in your house??? :yippee::yippee::yippee:

Did I say that????????? my lips are sealed;)

[Lauren]

Hi everyone. All quiet here at the moment as DH is busy playing games on his computer!

Hi Bet- you feeling ok after your shake last night???

[Lauren]

Ive just finished my bonuses for this weeks gimme - They arent at all what I envisaged when i started- its quite freeing doing art journalling stuff from a designers point of view - you can just let things go where they want to...- but next weeks kit we will go back to a regular kit I think - Im about to start that now - any suggestions of colours style etc Im happy to take into consideration - but it has to be fast - i need to get it done by tomorrow

[Cathiemarie]

Ive just finished my bonuses for this weeks gimme - They arent at all what I envisaged when i started- its quite freeing doing art journalling stuff from a designers point of view - you can just let things go where they want to...- but next weeks kit we will go back to a regular kit I think - Im about to start that now - any suggestions of colours style etc Im happy to take into consideration - but it has to be fast - i need to get it done by tomorrow

Anything that goes with my photos from Waiheke Island!!!!

[Cathiemarie]

Hi Bet- you feeling ok after your shake last night???

Shake, where, how big - does that make the sooth sayer right in his prediction?

[honeymoon]

DH and I went rushing up the stairs last night when the aftershock hit, to find both kids sound asleep still.... yay!!!

Hmmm... kit ideas.

If you didn't get a doorway into the bonuses, would like one of those.

Colours in this photo are pretty cool:

http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2010/199/3/b/Break_The_Night_With_Color_by_r3novatio.jpg

[honeymoon]

Shake, where, how big - does that make the sooth sayer right in his prediction?

5.1 about 9.40pm last night.

And no it doesn't make him right anymore than it makes the scientists right who were also predicting that we would get a mag 5 quake.

[Cathiemarie]

5.1 about 9.40pm last night.

And no it doesn't make him right anymore than it makes the scientists right who were also predicting that we would get a mag 5 quake.

OMGosh how awful for you all again. Was there more damage? is everyone OK?

[Lauren]

DH and I went rushing up the stairs last night when the aftershock hit, to find both kids sound asleep still.... yay!!!

Hmmm... kit ideas.

If you didn't get a doorway into the bonuses, would like one of those.

Colours in this photo are pretty cool:

http://fc07.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2010/199/3/b/Break_The_Night_With_Color_by_r3novatio.jpg
Love those colours - but I did infact go with the doorway - in fact there are a few things you might find useful Fiona ---lemme show you
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/07_K_BrokenDreams.jpg
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/files/lauren/previews/07_W_BrokenWords.jpg

[Cathiemarie]

Lauren, I love those - I'm just doing my Art Journal LO and I like it more than I thought I would. It's fun.

[honeymoon]

That looks great. I can see lots of useful stuff there. I have a page of notes/thoughts/quotes from the memorial service that I want to scrap.

[addielee]

I'll be looking for kits to work with my soon-to-come Jamaica pics. I don't know what those will look like yet, but this is the resort we'll be at: Beaches Boscobel (http://www.beaches.com/main/bo/bo-home.cfm)

[sandygb]

Wowwie. What a fab bonus kit. I see lots of wonderful items to use!!!!

[Lynnie]

I just want you all to know that I feel QUITE badly done to by all your TERRIBLY hurtful comments on Cathie's layout. I definitely did NOT break her thumb only to sabotage her in the DET competition (She deserved it for other stuff). As for her tea, Lauren, she is perfectly safe - I make her make MY tea.

Perhaps I should be worried!!

[Lauren]

ahhh ...perhaps you should!!!!!

[Lauren]

I just did a layout using my views from the top collection - not sure if i really am in love with it but i like the colours
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=383213

[Lynnie]

I did a layout with the Views from the Top also. It is really a fabulous kit with such lovely colours - I might do a few more this week.....

http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/2610/thumbs/AJ-So-Many-Mountains.jpg So Many Mountains (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=383214&title=so-many-mountains&cat=2610)

[timelord]

Well I had a wonderful holiday up North. I really like Hamilton and love Rotorua. And I didnt think it was too smelly! Lauren we went to Wai O Tapu as you recommended. Loved it and spent most of the day there. So I have some boiling mud/ steam/ coloured pool photos to scrap - ideas on what kit to use? We didnt get to Wingspan though... ran out of time. Did lugeing... which I loved as well. I want to move to Rotorua so I can buy a season pass ;). Unfortunately hearing of the Japan disaster on Friday night put a damper on the day as when we were driving to Rotorua as we were still a bit shellshocked, but we came right when we say the 1st steam.
Went to Waitomo the next day......and they waived the $149 tour fee as we were from Chch. This brought tears to my eyes and the lady serving me to me not to cry or I would make her cry. I was so touched and I must make sure I email them a big thank you.
The rest of the time was spent in Hamilton while Tony worked. We did all the local tourist things. One thing I must say is that Hamilton Gardens are amazing. They call ChCh the garden city... but our gardens pale compared to Hamiltons ones. Definitely another highlight.
Was home in time to attend the Memorial on Friday, then been busy all weekend. Kids back to school today after nearly 4 weeks. Thank goodness!
And the 5.1 last night was interesting. The aftershocks havent really bothered me, but I must admit I was a bit nervous yesterday. I dont believe anyone can predict earthquakes, but the Moonman must have unnerved me after all!

[Cathiemarie]

Oh Lauren took me and Lynnie to Rotorua last May, it's amazing isn't it? We didnt think it was too smelly either! We also went to Wai O Tapu and saw the Lady Knox Geyser. Have a look in Lynnies, mine or Laurens gallery; we scrapped photos from there, for ideas on what kit to use? Shame you didn't get to go to Wingspan that was one of the highlights of our trip.

I was amazed whilst I was there how compassionate fellow New Zealanders are to their compatriots and to those who were visiting Christchurch. I also saw the Memorial on Friday, on the telly, it was very moving.

It was pretty uncanny that you had the 5.1 last night especially after the Moonmans prediction. Spooky!



I just made this LO of Lauren at Cornwallis Wharfe, I thought I'd share with you all.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/500/thumbs/Cornwallis-Wharfe.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=383216&title=cornwallis-beach&cat=all)
Cornwallis Beach (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=383216&title=cornwallis-beach&cat=all)

[Chardonnay]

Hi Bet- you feeling ok after your shake last night???

Sorry, didn't get back to the computer to reply to this. We certainly felt it but nothing fell over or broke so we just went back to watching teli afterwards! Apparently it was the biggest aftershock since Feb 22nd though.

[mum2riley]

Sorry, didn't get back to the computer to reply to this. We certainly felt it but nothing fell over or broke so we just went back to watching teli afterwards! Apparently it was the biggest aftershock since Feb 22nd though.
Well it scared me half to death! I'm not usually so jumpy but with Ken Ring stirring things up (not that I believe him), it totally freaked me out and DP had to stop me from rushing into Riley's room and waking him up! First time I've reacted so strongly to an aftershock.

[Lauren]

Well I had a wonderful holiday up North. I really like Hamilton and love Rotorua. And I didnt think it was too smelly! Lauren we went to Wai O Tapu as you recommended. Loved it and spent most of the day there. So I have some boiling mud/ steam/ coloured pool photos to scrap - ideas on what kit to use? We didnt get to Wingspan though... ran out of time. Did lugeing... which I loved as well. I want to move to Rotorua so I can buy a season pass ;). Unfortunately hearing of the Japan disaster on Friday night put a damper on the day as when we were driving to Rotorua as we were still a bit shellshocked, but we came right when we say the 1st steam.
Went to Waitomo the next day......and they waived the $149 tour fee as we were from Chch. This brought tears to my eyes and the lady serving me to me not to cry or I would make her cry. I was so touched and I must make sure I email them a big thank you.
The rest of the time was spent in Hamilton while Tony worked. We did all the local tourist things. One thing I must say is that Hamilton Gardens are amazing. They call ChCh the garden city... but our gardens pale compared to Hamiltons ones. Definitely another highlight.
Was home in time to attend the Memorial on Friday, then been busy all weekend. Kids back to school today after nearly 4 weeks. Thank goodness!
And the 5.1 last night was interesting. The aftershocks havent really bothered me, but I must admit I was a bit nervous yesterday. I dont believe anyone can predict earthquakes, but the Moonman must have unnerved me after all!
Im so glad you had such a great time and that was so nice of the Waitomo people - - Arent the glowworms amazing !!??
I must go back to the Hamilton Gardens again soon - Its been ages and I was only there for a short time

[Lauren]

I got a new kit finished - its in the store now
http://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/bmz_cache/a/a88f728191817d5d9a55cfbc69bd0950.image.500x500.jpg (http://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2_18&products_id=14284)

and I already did a layout with it
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/data/6096/thumbs/manowarbay.jpg
Man o' War Bay (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=383274&title=man-o-war-bay&cat=6096)

[webfrau]

Pretty kit, I like all that viney border and the touch of bling. :)

[Jeanrx]

Very pretty, Lauren. I like those glittery flourishes!

[sandygb]

Beautiful new kit Lauren!!!

[Chardonnay]

Well it scared me half to death! I'm not usually so jumpy but with Ken Ring stirring things up (not that I believe him), it totally freaked me out and DP had to stop me from rushing into Riley's room and waking him up! First time I've reacted so strongly to an aftershock.

I'm sure it makes a big difference when you have children to worry about. I know my daughter, who has two little ones, is very nervous about shudders because she's got to get the kids before anything else. When you've only got yourself to think of it's not quite so bad ... not that I'll be happy about any more big ones of course .... :yikes:
And I do agree it was a big one on Sunday. Even Alex and I were up on our feet wondering where to take shelter, though I noticed when it stopped shaking that Alex was holding onto the big television screen - got to get your priorities right ... :lol:

[LynnT]

does anyone know how Lauren's doing?

[Lauren]

I'm out of surgery. Feel ok from the waist up. Let's not talk about the rest!! I can't sit up but I can type on my iPod !! I'm sure I'll be fine in a few days !!i have good drugs!!!I hope I'll be able to sit enough to do my chat on Thursday . I can do it on the couch anyway!!!

[happybeingamom]

Lauren speedy recovery!!!!

[sandygb]

Glad everything went well Lauren. Hope the drugs keep you comfortable!

[Chardonnay]

Good to hear all is well. Hope you feel more comfortable soon. :wave:

[LynnT]

ohhhh goodie ... drugs!!! let the body rest and keep the fingers and brain going! no... I'm glad to hear you're doing ok!

[addielee]

I hope you have a great recovery Lauren!

[Mars]

I'm out of surgery. Feel ok from the waist up. Let's not talk about the rest!! I can't sit up but I can type on my iPod !! I'm sure I'll be fine in a few days !!i have good drugs!!!I hope I'll be able to sit enough to do my chat on Thursday . I can do it on the couch anyway!!!


hurray! I'm so glad you pulled through. Take your time and enjoy your recovery drugs. I hope you are being pampered by the family, you deserve it! :hug:

[Noremacc]

Feel better soon Lauren!! Enjoy a little down time while your family takes care of you!!

[Cathiemarie]

Thinking about you Lauren - are you still in hospital or have they let you go home yet?

[Lauren]

I'm home Cathie . Don't quite know how I managed to get up the stairs but I did . I'm watching movies on the couch . I might have to stay here the might cuz I doubt I can get up to the bedroom !!

[Jeanrx]

Glad to hear it's over & that you are home. Hugs & warm fuzzies being sent your way!

[AliceMattison]

Glad you're home. Hope your recovery goes well!

[paperlady]

So glad to hear you're doing OK Lauren. I've certainly been thinking of you this week.

[Lauren]

Unbelievably I made it upstairs! I didn't sleep though but I'm feeling improved this morning. Thanks for your good wishes!
I found online that groin and thigh muscle pain is to be expected and can last a while tho they never told me that!! In fact communication from this place is pretty bad! Anyway I'm back there today to get checked out as requested . Then I'll be back and get Steve to bring me my laptop along with endless coffees!!

[LynnT]

Thanks for keeping us informed! You sound like you're in good spirits despite the insituation. I don't think I've ever met up with a doctor that tells me anything... but I'm finding that female doctors are more gun-ho. I get more infor from TV, internet or word of mouth.

[Mars]

Unbelievably I made it upstairs! I didn't sleep though but I'm feeling improved this morning. Thanks for your good wishes!
. . . Anyway I'm back there today to get checked out as requested . Then I'll be back and get Steve to bring me my laptop along with endless coffees!!

hope all the coffee doesn't keep you awake and you can sleep better tonight! :love2:

Thanks for keeping us informed! You sound like you're in good spirits despite the insituation. . .

I read this at first glance as "despite the institution"... which shed a whole new light on "I'm back there today to get checked out" :lol:

[Lauren]

I often think I belong in one!! ( my house often resembles one)

[Lauren]

Im going to start a new gimme a clue so fire some photos at me
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/showthread.php?p=959011#post959011

[Marriedin79]

Glad to hear all went well for you, Lauren.