living... loving... scrapping!

bullets and a layout

2012-01-30T23:11:00.002+08:00

hundreds of vacation pictures
son turned 6 and we had the coolest party ever
coolest party ever costs less than $100 (well, not counting the precious patterned papers I used!)
regular, everyday work in addition to teaching at Made With Love (so far I'm enjoying it. Lord please let this feeling stay, Amen.)
valentines day is almost happening!
no date on valentines day because hubby is going to Korea for a week.
then I realized I will have these 2 cuties as my date...

Sorry sorry for giving you bullets of thoughts.. Have been a very lazy blogger lately... but I know it's just a phase we all go through... in time, I know I will be back. For sure :) Missing this blog so much...

Supplies:

papers: Echo Park

die: Sizzix #655459

paint: Claudine Hellmuth

glossy accents: Ranger

scallop border stamp: American Crafts

others: mt tapes, metal accents, dew drops

hello and goodbye again :)

2011-12-19T11:47:00.002+08:00

Hi! Currently having a time of my life at Bacolod, my hometown. We will be spending Christmas eve with family here :):):) One more week ( i want some more!!!) then we will fly to Cebu where we will celebrate new year's eve with my in-laws. Truly grateful to God for blessing us with this vacation (lots of stories to share when I get back!) I definitely won't trade this for anything! :)

Here's for Made With Love, a layout I made before vacation started. A keepsake for my Miguel and his Filipina teacher at Gymboree. This old paper from Nikki Sivils is perfect for the photo... and how do you like that camera die from Sizzix? *wink* looooving it so much!

Goodbye for now... happy happy Christmas and a prosperous new year to all! :)

good times

2011-11-28T16:32:00.000+08:00

Using Crate Paper's Neighborhood collection, I made this mini accordion album for a dear friend... will be sending this to Japan as my "thank you" gift for her.. she's not blogging and I don't think she checks my blog so I guess it's fine that I'm posting it now haha! Hope she likes it :)

... that green handmade envelope contains more photos we took while they were still here :)

Thanks for looking! :)

date night @ Arab St.

2011-11-28T16:20:00.000+08:00

... it was one of my most favorite among our date nights :) Thank you BB! :)

feeling bad

2011-11-25T23:57:00.002+08:00

I'm disappointed. Makes me want to be home (in Bacolod) and be with ...

An
Tatskie
Cindy
Kikay
Miletski
Tinteen

I miss them so much and I hate them for not being techy enough to get hooked on Facebook and Skype and the like so that I could reach them when I badly need them... for instance, right now.

It is also at this time when I realize how valuable and precious the kind of friendship I have with them. I don't think they will ever read this. Because they don't blog. Or if they do read this, I don't think they will comment. Because they don't know how to post a comment. lol.

I love them and I THANK God that in my lifetime I experienced wonderful friendship with them.

I hope to see them soon. God willing.

Dearest Lolamamang...

2011-11-24T14:08:00.004+08:00

We wish you pure and genuine happiness today and everyday... a very good health and many birthdays more to come so that you get to enjoy life with us, your 11 grandchildren! Happy birthday! :)

Love,
Rujim and Miguel

Thoughtful Crafts Monday!

2011-11-21T14:23:00.000+08:00

Some Graphic 45 goodies just for you! Visit this site for details. Happy new week to all! :)

XOXO! :)

mini in a box

2011-11-20T23:26:00.001+08:00

This is a gift for myself. A mini album celebrating being mommy to my two adorable boys...

... I got the box from Daiso, altered it with trims, flower die-cuts using Sizzix dies.

... for the album, I used Sizzix bracket album die and American Crafts confetti papers and thickers.

Hope you like my simple, precious album in a box!

By the way, what do you think of my new blog design? :)

Lastly, I'd like to thank Echo Park for featuring my work in their blog here. Today, I am a fan winning their contest... someday, I will meet Mr. Madison as one of their designers. DREAM. It's free. hahaha!

3 projects using 1 paper pad

2011-11-15T22:36:00.004+08:00

This week, I challenged myself to make 3 different projects using just 1 6x6 paper pad from Echo Park...

Project #1: Receipt Holder Home Decor

To make this, I cut 12 pcs. 2x3 papers and randomly added some stuff from my stash... played around the lovely papers using dies, punches. Very Easy! :)

Project #2: Christmas Tree - Mini Album

This tree is actually a mini album measuring less than a foot! It's toooo cute right? First, I punched the papers, and sew them into paper ruffles... adhered the ruffles to the tree album...

... then I prepared all the elements I wanted to put together: tiny frames with my kids handsome photos in it, the paper christmas lights, the flowers, the stars, the tiny presents... all of them are extremely tiny and cute!!! :)

... presenting, our humble little Christmas tree! The little presents are actually matchboxes wrapped with Season's Greetings paper :)

Project #3: Christmas Cards

I hope you enjoyed my budget-friendly creations! :)

thankful tuesday

2011-11-08T17:12:00.001+08:00

I feel a little sad about a few things.

I thought I was being thoughtful to somebody, but it looked like that somebody didn't like what I did.
I was so excited to spend time with my family this Christmas but I found out this morning, one of my sisters will be spending Christmas somewhere else.
I have been trying very hard to lose weight, but the more I do, the more weight I gain!

So?

Should I stop being thoughtful? No. I will still be the same person I am, Because I know there are more people out there who know how to appreciate. Besides, I should not expect anything in return when I do something for others :)

Should I feel bad towards my sister? No. I will understand and I wish her all the happiness she deserves. Besides, she will be with my brother's family. I'm sure my brother will be so happy too.

Should I quit exercising? And eat as much as I want? No. I will still keep going. It may take long but I know I will achieve my ideal and dream weight. Maybe God will grant me my desired weight when He sees that I'm not doing it for vanity reasons but for good health and well being.

Those few things are but so little compared to the great blessings God gives each day. Like what happened yesterday morning after breakfast...

... I wanted to take photos of my projects, and I had to go down for better and natural lighting. Suddenly hubby and the boys wanted to come along. So even in their pajamas, it was an instant "picture perfect" moment :)

... thanks to this guy for the very lovely photos!

date with Him.

2011-11-07T13:35:00.003+08:00

After 3 days and 3 nights of praying, listening to the catechists, scrutinizing the bible, listening to one another, I have realized how sinful I am and how little my faith is... therefore I must always ask for His wisdom. I must always seek for the Holy Spirit. In His grace, I will be renewed. Little by little.

I thank You Lord for calling us by our names. Blessing and glory, honor and praise be to our God! Amen!

"Our history is important."

"Do not run away from your cross."

Prayer: In the morning, let me know your love.

picture perfect

2011-11-02T12:14:00.001+08:00

Here's my new class at Made With Love...

Make two mini accordion albums that double as a lovely room decor, with a bonus 12x12 scrapbook layout to match it. Learn to stamp with paint, decorate and embellish using paper cut-outs, sizzix shapes and painted chipboards.

I would like to shout out a special THANK YOU to all scrappers who attend my class. It warms my heart to see same faces and it makes me excited to meet new scrappers as well :) For you all, I promise to make more fun crafts from the heart for us all to enjoy! Thank you thank you again! :)

Other on-going classes I offer at MWL:

Capture the Moment

Sweet Tooth

Jodi's Garden

Click here for more information on all the other classes offered this month.

Thoughtful Crafts Monday!

2011-10-31T10:36:00.001+08:00

Good morning! Excited to share with you some cute projects I made for a friend using my two most favorite tools: eclips and bind-it-all.

... randomly arranged papers and things and used 'decorate your life' cartridge for the sentiment: "Decorate your life with joy"

... for this personalized notebook, I stamped "baby" using white paint.

... there, Mommy Lalie can now scribble her precious thoughts about Chase :) You can see more of my handmade creations here.

Thanks for looking and have a happy week ahead!

wordless wednesday

2011-10-25T11:35:00.000+08:00

Thoughtful Crafts Monday!

2011-10-24T11:58:00.001+08:00

... these taste really good! Wanna bet? :)

Creative Scrappers Sketch #179

2011-10-23T11:25:00.001+08:00

This sketch is so perfect for the photos I and hubby took using our cams and iphone instagram, that night, when we "accidentally" discovered that our 3 year old can write! I was tutoring his elder brother to write when he blurted out "Mommy, can I write too?" So I taught him how to hold the chalk, we wrote a few straight lines, and to my big surprise, he scribbled all the letters of the alphabet except "W" with much ease! Imagine me jumping up and down in amazement! I remember when I was little, my father would draw dots for us to trace. I kinda miss doing that with him. But who cares! My little one can already write! :)

This Bo Bunny Blast Off collection is perfect for the story as it has got lots of stars = very good :) I also love the rockets... the robots... and the alphabets... the arrows.. everything!

... the key lime paint which I stamped using my foam stamp gives a very good contrast to the bright and happy colors :)

Thank you for looking! I hope you all take care especially in crossing the streets. My friend's sister met a very serious accident last Wednesday and is fighting for her life right now. Please help us offer a prayer for her. That God will give her and her family strength and peace in this difficult time.

Echo Pack: Country Drive

2011-10-19T10:30:00.004+08:00

Sharing 3 projects I made for a class at Made With Love. These 3 minis are made out of just 1 paper pack from Echo Park. I think this is my most favorite of all EP's line... Country Drive!

Class objective was to make mini albums from scratch. So with the help of my other ever reliable favorites: Sizzix dies, Studio paints, Ranger crackle paints, ribbons and buttons, metal rings, a few card stocks and lots and lots of foam dots ... here are the minis I so love! Looking at them makes me smile :)

"Hello Sunshine"

This album is about me. A reminder for me to always try to live in the moment... to smile a lot, listen more, love always...

"Happy Adventure"

The second album is about one of our family picnics at East Coast. That basket sticker is soooo perfect for this!

"You and Me Together"

The third one is about family. For me, material abundance alone does not give us genuine happiness. It's being with our family. Enjoying each other's company. Laughing in happy times, crying in bad times but still feeling alright knowing that God is in charge.

Hope you enjoyed looking at my simple creations. It's not too difficult to make if you just have the right tools, the inspiration and of course the pretty papers from Echo Park! :)

Thankful Tuesday

2011-10-18T17:27:00.002+08:00

What makes a great weekend?

a friend coming over for an unplanned bonding
a feel good movie marathon (like 2 weeks notice & definitely maybe)
a homemade dessert (or better yet, dessertsssss!)
2 handsome boys impatiently checking the oven if the dessert Mommy bakes is ready *loooove it!*
a walk around the block with a macho man (lol!)
a quiet me-time in the bedroom with books, notebooks and pens, with the air-con on... while all the rest forgot you're there!
Holy Eucharist
not spending anything except for groceries
forgetting about exercise and just eat eat eat (uumm, I'm not so sure of this one)

....check to all the items on the list! Looks like we had a great weekend! Thank you Lord for giving us joy and contentment in things like these. Thank you Criste for the visit! Hanggang sa susunond =D

Thoughtful Crafts Monday!

2011-10-17T10:41:00.000+08:00

Selling some of my used/unused stuff! All are in good condition. Leave a comment if you are interested. Please click here for prices and more details. Thank you!

mr. potato

2011-10-14T19:00:00.000+08:00

I first learned this recipe from good friends Jing and Hazel. For many times that I have prepared this menu, I would always peel potatoes with my fingertips or with a knife which takes a lot of time. This time, I know better. Thanks to this tutorial on how to peel a boiled potato!

tutorial: altered recipe book

2011-10-12T14:44:00.003+08:00

Shortly before our wedding, hubby gave me this notebook. It became not just my recipe book but a record of some of my first goals as new wife, the very few menu I knew then. That time, I would often call my mother for help. This 8 year old notebook is precious. So it is just right that I jazz it up, believing that one day my children and their children will see, hold and cook with it! :)

1. Painted the covers with Studio Claudine Hellmuth semi-gloss paint in traditional tan.

2. Stamped some fruits, food images by Hero Arts, and colored it with Copic. I also used the same stamp set to stamp spoon and fork on my project. Cutest!

3. Then I took some old papers that I kept for this purpose. American Crafts Abode papers are just so cute!Distressed it and adhered everything on my book. Added some flowers, MT tapes, twines and other embellishments.

4. After arranging and pasting all the embellishments, I added alphas and wrote some sentiments. Then, I painted the whole thing with Mod Podge to seal all the tiny details. I want to make sure this book will really stand the test of time! :)

4. When the Mod Podge was dry, I took out my Studio Claudine Helmuth in teal, mixed a bit of water and sprinkled paint randomly over the cover using a paint brush.

There! My very precious recipe and home-making book. Would you like to see some pages inside? It's nothing fancy. But it is one of my possessions that money can't buy :)

*click to make it larger

Thank you for looking! And warm greetings to all of you who visit my blog :) Bless the Lord!

stay hungry... stay foolish ...

2011-10-10T21:01:00.005+08:00

Steve Jobs is gone but he will be remembered forever. His passion and love for what he did changed our lives. On a personal level, our boys are crazy about Toy Story, and iPad helped Kuya a lot. This made me emotional. Thank you Steve Jobs! This layout for Made With Love and Bo Bunny challenge, is a reminder for myself, inspired by you...

I used papers from Bo Bunny Vicki B collection, and those alphas (painted with glimmer glaze), green flowers, butterflies, bird cage are made using Eclips - Decorate Your Life cartridge *lovin't it to bits!*

Supplies:

papers: Bo Bunny - Vicki B

cardstock: Bazzil

tools: Sizzix Eclips, Decorate Your Life

mediums: TA glimmer glaze, stickles

others: doilies, resin flower, sharpie, dew drops, foam dots

Thoughtful Crafts Monday!

2011-10-10T11:48:00.001+08:00

Do you love to keep spare papers or negatives from die-cuts? Are your "scrap" hoarder? Then welcome to the club! I don't throw papers away. Not if they measure at least a square inch! But the thing is, I already got a lot and I'm having problems of how and where to store them... I know it's time to do something about it...

Here's what I did with mine ... mini cards measuring 3x3. Cute and handy when you need to brighten up someone's day as a card or as a gift tag! :)

More cards here.

Creative Scrappers Sketch #177

2011-10-09T20:54:00.007+08:00

For this sketch, I used just one piece of patterned paper from Cosmo Cricket. A piece I have been holding on to for months, believing that one day, I will be able to use it for something. That day came, when fairy Jodi gave me her pretty photo! :)

... the butterflies and pixielicious details are perfect for Jodi :)

... thanks to this stitching detail, my sewing mojo is back!

(was able to repair a pair of shorts and a blouse after I did this)

and I hope to be able to sew more :)

... i even stitched the title (that also serves as my journaling),

which is by the way, is part of that one piece of paper.

Thank you Cosmo Cricket! :)

Azkals in Singapore

2011-10-09T15:25:00.004+08:00

I'm not a sports fan. I only get to watch some sports shows when I know somebody playing in one of the teams, or if it's Manny Pacquiao's boxing match. I don't know much about any sports. But this time, hubby asked me out! :) He hadn't asked me for a date for a long time and I thought it would be exciting to watch Philippines' Azkals vs. Singapore's Lions here in a foreign country!

Although our team didn't win, indeed it was more than just fun! It felt soooo good to see thousands of fellow Filipinos in one venue, cheering together for Azkals. At one point, I kept silent in the midst of shouts and cheers, realizing how much I love and miss my country.

Here is a nicely written article about that event.

My date and I ... most of the time he was busy taking

photos of the game which is just fine with me because...

I was also so busy staring at these hunks! LOL! =)

thank you scrapbooking.com!

2011-10-09T09:47:00.001+08:00

... for publishing my article on you October issue. Love it! :)

wordless wednesday

2011-10-05T22:22:00.000+08:00

happy birthday Tita Anne2! :)

2011-10-04T14:30:00.001+08:00

We love you and we miss you! :)

Thoughtful Crafts Monday!

2011-10-03T11:13:00.001+08:00

Hi! It's another week of good vibes and beautiful things! At ThoughtfulCrafts this week, I'm sharing these oh-so-cute paper bags and boxes that come in different colors and sizes made possible by my latest toy Sizzix Eclips :) I just can't stop loving Sizzix! :)

They can be decorated and altered depending on what purpose you want to use them: a party favor, goody bag, a gift box, a product packaging or to keep some precious little things! Possibilities are endless! :)

Have a great start of the week! Love love love! :)

insta-moments

2011-10-02T20:28:00.004+08:00

I thank the Lord for granting me another day, filled with beautiful things and happy moments, captured by instagram...

beautiful lilies and gerberas I just arranged
fun train and bus rides... the only thing that can make K and B wake up and take a shower way too early than usual
those boxes I made using my latest toy :) so excited to be sharing additional goodies at ThoughtfulCrafts tomorrow!
chocolates. Just love to see the kids and the feeling-kids munch on them with delight! :)
Kuya feeling so comfortable and happy with the community.
Migs enjoying the company of Nene, Judith, Jolene, Joyce and the rest of the young members of our St. Anthony family.

Life is not insta-picture perfect. It's just that I love to capture happy moments. Because in truth, happy moments are more and bigger than sad ones. All we have to do is be attentive and open enough to capture them! :)

Let's end the week with love... and prayers for all especially those affected by the recent typhoon in the Philippines...

happy world card making day + new class

2011-10-01T17:04:00.004+08:00

Happy World Card Making Day! What a perfect time to make cards! I am in the middle of making cute and simple cards to be sold to flower shops :) I will be sharing more soon...

Happy new class! So excited for this "something new" class I prepared for this month for Made With Love scrappers. It's very different from the usual fun, colorful stuff I make. Although to be honest, it stressed me a little, took me so much time and some panadol to finish but it was all worth it coz I'm happy with how it turned out and I now desire to make some more haha!

The inspiration for this album is Jodi, a pretty, fun and charming girl who goes to my class at MWL with her mom. She loves to chat, and would be thrilled to help me distribute some little stuff/materials to other scrappers :) Can't wait to give this album to her as a gift :)

Come to Jodi's beautiful garden that’s brimming with all things beautiful! Flowers, twines, butterflies, white picket fences, fabric, pearls and laces... With an entire Echo Park Victoria Garden collection kit to play with, you’ll learn techniques such asdistressing, inking, stamp embossing and create an album from scratch. Experiment with lots of different mediums like acrylic paints, crackle paints, mica flakes, stickles and more, to come away with a very pretty creative project of your own!

Other classes I offer at Made With Love for this month...

(click to make image larger)

Click here for the details, reservations and info on ALL the classes offered this

October at Made With Love.

Creative Team Call!!

2011-09-29T09:09:00.001+08:00

Creative Scrappers are looking for scrappers who enjoy working with sketches... have enjoyed working with Kristine and I'm sure you would too... click here for more information :)

latest events

2011-09-27T23:49:00.001+08:00

Was in hiatus for more than a week because of ...

a. instagram
b. twitter
c. Facebook (not much. don't like it a lot these days. when i open it and see the very messy wall i get so stressed!)
d. i was lazy
e. life's so overwhelming and had so much to tell i didn't know what to do hahaha
f. all of the above

(Can you guess the answer?)

But i figured just a moment ago (because I'm still not in the mood to blog, to be honest), I want this blog to be a record of my life. All the good and the bad, I try my best to post every happenings and thoughts.... so I'll try, even just through pictures.

Picture #1. Few months ago until last week. I was so scared of the possibility of having melanoma. Would catch myself imagining, getting so worried, crying, thinking what it would be to have it. Paranoia isn't good I tell you. Saw 5 doctors. Specialists. Cancer ruled out. Thank you Lord for my "new life"! I wasn't scared to die. I was scared of the thought to leave these three guys.... no need to elaborate....

Picture #2. Was in the company of fun friends. Vincent's birthday at Bonifacio. A Filipino restaurant. Fun night with band and soooo delicious food. Especially the Laing!

Picture #3. Couldn't take the yummy laing out of my mind. Cooked it the following day. Thanks to mother and Nancy and google for making it happen. Thank you Lord coz it was good! Not bad for a first try :) *drooling now*

Picture #3. Last minute farewell bonding before Vanessa left for Germany. So touched because she only had a few hours left before leaving but she gave us time. (Will miss you Vane. Wish we had more bondings while you were here but I understand there are lots of people, loved ones who also wanted to spend time with you).

Picture #4. Mommyla's birthday yesterday. But I'm not sure if she had a very happy one because her brother, Tito Carlit was rushed to the hospital. He passed away Today. (We will miss you Tito. Say hi to Jesus for us). Made this for Creative Scrappers sketch #175, using Bo Bunny.

Picture #5. Jodi, my favorite pretty, courageous student. Would want to spend more scrapping time with her. She will be the subject of my next mini-album class... Watch out for it!

Whew! I feel so good after sharing all these pictures and the little stories behind! I realize now how I miss blogging... and whoever you are, reading this now, here's my love and prayers. God's love is just so good to have... and to give away. Goodnight! :)

a post with no title :D

2011-09-19T22:32:00.003+08:00

Hello! Back from a whole day out! First part was Yummy part coz I ate the very delicious Filipino food 'ginata-ang langka' and kare2, and cakes too! Second part was Miguel's gymboree class and a lot of chitchat time with Betsy. Went home with bags full of my favorite 'whatta tops' cupcakes and dresses for ThoughtfulCrafts, my FB store, to be posted soon. Thank you so much Betsy for carrying them for me. You are such an angel!

Speaking of ThoughtfulCrafts, here are the new handmade hair bands I just uploaded...

Weekend was great. Matthew and family visited us! I prepared hamonada and vegetable spring rolls... and they brought super sarap fried chicken! (Im hungry now, oh no!). Miguel and Taxx did the "tsunami" playdate, Kuya read Toy Story with Dadutz. Very very precious moments... I got belated birthday presents too! :) Hubby got so engrossed with the movie they watched (while us, ladies made chika!) so these are the only kakarampot photos we had...

Then, today was the last day of Made With Love's challenge #8 which I hosted. I want to say thank you to all who played along... photos below will show how the winner was randomly drawn...

Congratulations Bbhome! :)

today's good things....

2011-09-18T01:12:00.000+08:00

My smile. Now. Because God told me tonight, in our Eucharist, that His love for me is beyond measure. His generosity can never be calculated. Well, He already told me this many times before. But this time it gave me a different feeling :)
Hubby ate not less than 10 pcs. of the coconut macaroons I baked this afternoon.
Full body massage for me and hubby.
The 90's music I'm listening to right now. I recall my disco and pa cute days haha.
Miguel's "Alpabetong Pilipino" song.
Kuya's very clear request for "honey stars" cereal :)
Fresh buko (coconut) juice.
Cute purse gift from Vivien.
Mass booklet gift from Teray.
Flowers I arranged at the church.
Sally. The flower shop owner who might buy my cards! :)
Skype with Papang, Mamang, Mommy and Juris.
This pambahay-no-lipstick-tambok-again stolen look bwahaha --->

Bless be the Lord who gave me this beautiful day! =)

Creative Scrappers Sketch #173

2011-09-12T11:40:00.004+08:00

For this sketch, I chose black, white and red color scheme to match the photos' colors. My color coded embellishments drawers came in handy once again :) plus some stamps, paints.

... the frame is a Sizzix die, painted, crackle painted, inked.

... my layout won't be considered finished without buttons! (maybe i should change my blog title to "cute as a button, ill think about it) ... and that black bracket is a new stamp from jenni bowlin. Hope you like my simple layout :)

What else...

*Im hosting a challenge over here at Made With Love. Please visit and play along with us :)

*Our lazy weekend in instagram.

*Im in love with Pinterest. Period.

*Stumbled upon this DIY: storing border strips using paper towel tubes.

*NEW UPLOADS in my shop. Do take a look! They're lovely! :)

"kuya's haircut" for MWL

2011-09-05T23:20:00.006+08:00

For this week's DT assignment at Made With Love, I made a 4-photo layout about my son's haircut experience at Junior League. I have shared before how happy we were that time, so it is just fitting that I scrap it! Thanks to Bo Bunny's Adlib collection. Making the page was easy and fun!

... I incorporated the title and the journaling together using Bo Bunny's letter stickers. I love the "who", "what""when" stickers because it helped me tell the story...

... the frame, made out of grey board, a favorite Sizzix die, paint and glimmer mist, emphasized the last photo where Kuya's had a gel and spike :)

... don't you just love that cracks?!! :)

Supplies:

paper: Bo Bunny

stickers: Bo Bunny

die: Sizzix 655047

acrylic paint: Making Memories

crackle paint: Tim Holtz

gllimmer mist: Tattered Angels

others: buttons, dew drops, grayboard, sharpie

doll house mini album

2011-09-04T23:43:00.001+08:00

I had sooooo much fun while creating this project, inspired by Larissa's dollhouse creation. The I-couldn't-stop-grinning kind of fun! I want to make some more of these in the days to come! =)

An album that opens up to an 8-room/2-storey ice cream and pastry shop themed doll house that includes a mini recipe book inside! Featuring the freshly released Bo Bunny Sweet Tooth collection. For reservations and details of all the new workshops offered this month at Made With Love, click here.

latest

2011-09-01T09:52:00.004+08:00

Latest art: teachers day gift bags with cards made from this collection and this die and this die too.

Latest addiction: Toy Story

Latest pic together. Taken the other day :)

Latest bonding with friends: tea party!

Latest cake cake I baked: chocolate cake

Latest music heard: You Got A Friend In Me (Toy Story)

Latest shower: yesterday. Lol!

Latest tweet: new blog crush! http://makingitlovely.com/

Latest FB status: note to self: keep your cool. think about the yummy chocolate cake you baked yesterday. take a shower and make those party favors. pray and smile :) #thistooshallpass

Latest mail sent: scrapbooking.com magazine

Latest meal: fruit muesli

Latest TV show: Umagang Kay Ganda

Latest weight: 67kg :(

handpainted scarves for sale!

2011-08-29T13:53:00.002+08:00

These lovely scarves are intricately hand painted by my sister and father. A work of art and love. And yes! They are for sale for only SGD$60. Email me or leave a comment if you are interested!

More handcrafted products here.

note to self

2011-08-28T21:20:00.002+08:00

eat... pray... love... exercise... read... teach... create... smile... dance... laugh... cry if you must... accept... tolerate... listen... and to be able to do all these, pray some more!

Supplies:

TA glimmer glam

MM acrylic paint

old papers

felt

sizzix flower die

trims and ribbons from my stash

doily from Maggie

twine

Sketch: Creative Scrappers

teachers day cards

2011-08-24T10:37:00.002+08:00

Hello! I know I had so much to share. My birthday. Our weekend swim. My mood swings. My fear about a particular something concerning my health. The good news I got from back home about our small business. So many! I don't know where to start so let's just talk about something else for the mean time ok?

Such as Teachers Day! It's going to be on September 1st here in Singapore. I remember many years ago, how special it made me feel when my grade school pupils in LCC would give me hand made cards. I still keep those precious gifts in a box at our home in Cebu. Now it's my turn to make some for Kuya's teachers =)

At least. Makes me feel good to do and share with you something concrete today. I need to go and see a doctor now... praying to God all is well with me. Take care you all!

Supplies:

papers: American Crafts Peachy Keen

circle and flower die: Sizzix

stamp: American Crafts

punches: Martha Stewart & EK

trims: American Crafts

others: twines, stickles, sharpie

More of these cards HERE.

When I am happy...

2011-08-17T11:12:00.003+08:00

I get to pray.
I get to create lots of nice stuff.
I get to sing a song.
I get to be sweet and thoughtful.
I get to appreciate and accept who I am.
I get to say no to temptations --- to buy things that I don't need.
I get to reach my goals.
I know how to listen (or I can try my best).
I love life.
When I am happy, my hubby and my sons are happy too.

I have to be HAPPY everyday. Even though at times, there are a few reasons why I shouldn't be. I have learned to accept that life is not perfect. That my mother will get sick any time. That some people I love will not always have a good and happy and healthy life all the time. That the friends I really want to spend time with can never be around, not when you're many miles apart.

Thanks to God's word. It reminded me of these things. It helps me get my thoughts in order. I'm secure. I stand firm. I am still. He is God.

So because I am happy :) I created lots of stuff yesterday! 12 cards (but I intend to make 2 dozens more so I'm not showing it today haha) and this shadow box I made for newlyweds Charlie and Guada...

There's not much techniques here, just some distressing and layering... thanks to Crate Paper's very lovely Portrait collection.

That flower is a die-cut using felt and this die.

Happy to be seeing my layouts at the front page of CCG and Two Peas in a Bucket :) Here are some screen prints :)

Most of all, I am happy to be spending lots of time with my two adorable yummies...

"Mommy, look I made a boat!"

... and this big guy here, taking charge of my mac while I was busy making cards. He even managed to take a self portrait, including my big butt! lol! And when I checked on him... this was how my desktop looked like:

Looks like he was busier that Mommy? hahaha!

Have a nice day! It's my birthday tomorrow! Come back and greet me, ok? lol.

Creative Scrappers Sketch #169

2011-08-14T20:17:00.000+08:00

Hey there! Sharing another sketch from Creative Scrappers...

I challenged myself to create a "boy" layout using a very girly and pretty Peachy Keen of American Crafts. I guess the splats of red paint and that cute gray camera did the balance :)

Photo was taken at the beach house we stayed at during the latest family vacation. That was right after breakfast, killing some time before going on a day tour scheduled that day. Looking at it makes me want to scrap more of our vacation photos... Okay I better do it now!

How's Sunday so far? :)

fun for fun

2011-08-13T11:40:00.009+08:00

While kids were having haircut ...

While kids were playing ...

... we were also busy trying out our MS punchers and striking a pose. Love the top given to me by Ate Betsy, hub's aunt from NY. Thank you Ate Bets! :)

Who says we can't have fun while they do? I say, it's all about time management hahaha! Thanks to my friend Betsy, her sister Jancy and Vincent! More bondings to come :)

More snapshots of the day...

Have a happy weekend! :)

finally ... my days are better! :)

2011-08-12T10:58:00.000+08:00

After a few days of sulking, I started smiling again, yesterday. First, hubby took me out on a date (with no advance plans). That was a few moments after I silently cried to God my questions, disappointments, doubts, fears about a few things concerning myself and other things. Hubby continues to be an angel who seems to know when I badly need an ice blend coffee, a slice of cheese cake, and a pair of listening ears. Thank you Baby!

Then right after that quick date, we proceeded to meet our group mates for word preparation. God spoke to me. Answered my questions. Took my doubts away. Never felt so loved by Him in the best way ever. So intangible yet so concrete. Didn't involve any material gift (we usually say "God loves me!" when we get a new house, car, a promotion, an answered petition). It was just a few lines from our readings. I felt peaceful. Joyful. Secure.

I believe I'm back on my feet again! Stay tuned for more "better days" news! Love! Love! Love! :)

Vanessa

2011-08-10T14:34:00.003+08:00

Here's another Crate Paper layout, using the lovely Portrait collection. My entry for this month's color challenge, and at the same time, a special gift for Vanessa's 22nd birthday. So happy she loved it!

Details...

... that flower is actually a glimmer misted tissue paper. Just added a silver brad.

... denim, tapes, CP trims and some twines. Also splattered some white paint randomly over the page.

... lastly, sprayed some iridescent gold glimmer mist over the page. Poor lighting won't allow you to see the beautiful glimmer effect. Just imagine. Haha. Thank you for looking! :)

Happy 46th Birthday Singapore!

2011-08-09T10:47:00.005+08:00

One of the best things Singapore gave me and my family is our St. Anthony community (Neocatechumenal Way) in Woodlands. We couldn't imagine life without our brothers and sisters who, like us, walk the narrow but fulfilling path. In life's ups and downs, we can rely on our brothers and sisters who love and accept us. We may be in a foreign land but we always feel at home because of our community.

Played with my Crate Paper's neighborhood collection, (one of the prizes I got for winning one of it's monthly contests! yay!), stickler, glimmer mists, and my forever favorites: buttons and dew drops!

Speaking of contests and prizes, do you want to win this one? :):):)

Visit Made With Love now and find out how you are able to win this scrappy goodness worth $100! It's our way of celebrating National Day! Hurry! Hurry!

birthday! birthday!

2011-08-04T12:11:00.004+08:00

It's Papang's birthday! Although this day may not be completely happy for mother is not feeling well, I still hope the day ends well.... I made this page documenting my gift for him. A Ukelele. Just sent him money to buy the one he likes =)

Soon, it's gonna be my birthday too... and I'm wondering a lot about how I am, as a person, as a mom, a wife, etcetera. Got a few days left to reflect and be ready to be a year older! :D

For this layout, I got my color inspiration from Color Combos Galore. Enjoyed playing with my key lime and red paints as my background and just randomly added variety of stuff from my color coded drawer. The word block background is a fave paper from Cosmo Cricket.

Thank you for looking and I hope you all have a nice day :)

how do you do it?

2011-08-03T13:16:00.000+08:00

How do you try to keep or bring back your mojo? After being away for long, I found myself a little "lost" despite my being happy to be in my happy place once again. One of the remedies that usually works for me is a new magazine ... thank you Sheng! :)

Then I found in one of the pages the exact same cupcake holder I have... and a lot more cool ideas :) see some of my happy place make-over :

... this got me working, and in fact I have finished some layouts already!

I would love to hear how you call your mojo back... Please share! :)

dear Philippines...

2011-07-31T11:48:00.002+08:00

I miss you so much. I want to see you again soon...

Photos we took at Panglao Island, Bohol are perfect for Websters Pages Yacht Club papers. I just added some Prima flowers, trims, buttons, dew drops and doodled some notes :) This is for Creative Scrappers sketch # 167 by Jill Sarginson.

... you'll be seeing more of our vacation photos in the next many layouts I will be making! Thank you for looking! Hugs :)

new class!

2011-07-29T12:10:00.006+08:00

Presenting... my new offering this August! COUNTRY DRIVE!
A super fun class using the whole pack of Echo Park's Country Drive collection. Be able to play with acrylic and crackle paints, finish lots and lots of sweet layered pages, with crocheted flowers, laces and ribbons ... and be amazed by your ability to make these 3 mini-albums from scratch!

... and if in case you missed my other class CAPTURE THE MOMENT,

... there's 1 slot this month!

A wonderful album to hold your huge stashes of seemingly ordinary yet immensely precious photos because it is these little moments that make life big! Using Maya Road and Bo Bunny's Ad Lib collection, finish 20 (yes, twenty!) 8x8 layouts in 3 hrs! And have a raving good time playing with paints, mists and dimension to your pages using sizzix dies, glossy accents, stickles, washi tapes and Maya Road embellishments!

Visit Made With Love or call 6238 8770 for class schedules and registration. Thank you! :)

I'm back!

2011-07-28T11:53:00.008+08:00

... from a very lovely vacation!
This one really made me appreciate the beauty of my beloved country, particularly Bohol. I promise to be back with my family and visit more places soon. My heart is heavy with homesickness the minute we left. But I am excited and happy that I brought with me loads of sweet memories with old and new friends.
We took a million photos. So many it overwhelms me! Making me not touch it yet which explains why this post relies on my iphone instagram shots. hahah!

... to these yumminess waiting for me! (thank you Crate Paper! and BB for my [and Kuya's] new toy!) :):):)

... with these two good boys who missed their toys so much they
forgot to fight! lol! what a precious time! :)

Now if you'll excuse me please as I need to finish a layout that's due NOW (i forgot!!!). Kisses! :)

all dressed-up

2011-07-18T10:18:00.002+08:00

Right now, I'm having a coffee date with dear hubby, right here at the Queen City of the South. While kids are playing at My Playroom :)

This layout, which I made before vacation started, is for Creative Scrappers sketch 165. I used my favorite dress form die from Sizzix and some fun photos with Maggie :)

Missing two homes :( Block 687a and Cherry St... but I also love the fact that we are right now in our very first home, at Eastland, which Miguel calls "the small house" haha!

instagram update

2011-07-11T21:28:00.002+08:00

Howdy all!

Savoring my last week here in my beloved hometown. Very busy having super quality time with my bestest friends. I miss my dear hubby and my craft room but I don't wanna go home yet :(

Got loads to share but I'll let my insta photos do the job...

... old photos at home

.... lazying around, missing Daddy!

.... yummy finds! :)

your kiss

2011-07-03T01:41:00.015+08:00

Warm hello from the city of smiles! So busy catching up with family. Will share photos soon...
Meanwhile here's my very first assignment for Creative Scrappers for sketch #163, using Echo Park and Sizzix...

Be back soon! :)

creative space

2011-06-27T15:11:00.004+08:00

Hi! In the middle of packing for our trip... then suddenly I realized I will be away for almost a month... quite a long time to be away from my little haven, which I share with my kids... So I grabbed my camera and took some photos...

... at least I can just take a peek at my blog and see it once in a while! =)

Echo Park {take two!}

2011-06-22T14:33:00.004+08:00

I'm again shouting out my love for this paper. Even though I was not picked the last time I tried *sniff* but I won't give up! Bring it on, Mr. Madison! :D

Here goes...

#1 Lazy Day.... fun in the sun! (2-page layout)

Made this 2-page layout for my LSS, Made With Love. The journaling says: "There's nothing better than spending a lazy weekend by the beach, building sand castles, just being with each other!"

... made my own embellishments using Sizzix dies: heart for frame, and circle for the sun. Just added the rays using copic markers.

... a technique to share: make your own washi tape by coloring ordinary masking tapes with Copic markers. So fun to make! :)

SUPPLIES:

paper: Echo Park Splash/ Dots and Stripes

alphas: AC

stamps: AC

dies: Sizzix

markers: Copic and Sharpie

others: dew drops, buttons, masking tape

*********

#2 Lazy Days... Happy Days! (mini-album)

This album, showcasing EP's Summertime collection, is actually my class sample for a workshop I teach at Made With Love. Course is finished so I am now allowed to show the entire thing... In this class, I taught how to make a flower accent using a stapler, give texture to a frame using crackle paint, and make a mini accordion album inside the album.

SUPPLIES:

paper: Echo Park Summertime

dies: Sizzix

mediums: Claudine Hellmuth, Ranger

others: twine, dew drops, buttons, rings, chipboards

*********

#3 Im Coming Home (travel album)

Going on a family vacation to my hometowm soon, so I made this scrap-as-you-go album for me to record, scrap all the keepsakes I would collect along the way... in one month! How exciting is that?

Inspired by the very talented Pooi, I made these washi tape flower. This time, it's not a real washi tape. It's just an ordinary masking tape, stamped and colored with Copic Markers :)

The album is a work in progress as from today until our vacation is over so for now it's basically blank, with envelopes containing some journaling cards which I think Im gonna need :)

... stickers

... lots of blank pages which will house photos of friends and family we will meet! *can't wait!*

... buttons are a must-have!

... some spare papers

... more plain papers and little frames.

SUPPLIES:

paper: Echo Park A Walk in the Park/Dots and Stripes

cardstock: AC

others: chipboards, ribbons, buttons, rings

Now I just need a polaroid. But in case my hubby reads this, I wanna make it clear, it's just me and my wishful thinking, ok? hahaha!

Now, It's the end of this post. Shall I click publish? Swallow my pride in case I won't make it again? What the heck, I enjoyed making these anyway. That's what really matters :)

Thanks for looking! Off I go now to shop supplies for my next class. What's it gonna be? I can't tell for now. But I'll leave you with a clue: "Country Drive" :):):) Bye!!!

happy fathers day!

2011-06-19T00:46:00.004+08:00

Made this mini book with little pockets for my munchkins' Daddy...

It seems to me he liked the treats {coupons} inside those pockets! :D

For my father, Papang... he only gets to pick one ... bwahahaha!

It's ok Pader coz I'm sure you will love this...

Happy fathers day Papang, BB, my brother Jong, brother-in-law Reneii...

to all the Dads in the world...

and most of all to our Father in heaven!

sweet stuff

2011-06-18T13:32:00.002+08:00

Some stuff I made the past days...

Thank you for your pretty face Mikay. Finishing this page is a no-brainer :)

A mini book and a card... Imaginining myself teaching my sisters make these ... maybe soon.

A little gift for my friend's new born, Ethan...

... still in the midst of life's roller coaster. Trying to be brave and good. Difficult life I tell you. But I bet it's not gonna be that long --- soon I will see the rainbow :) God loves me.

10 things i love

2011-06-17T11:55:00.002+08:00

Miguel asking me: "Are you ok Mommy?" when he saw me lie down quietly, in a deep thought.
Seeing my sister so giddy with her new-found interest. Fashion accessories.
Tuesdays With Morrie. With so much to do and 2 active munchkins, I can only read a few pages a day. But I love it. In fact I wish I'd never end reading it. So inspiring. (Can you suggest an inspiring good book for me?)
Layouts and little projects I made.
Excitement. Is it really possible to make 20 layouts in 3 hours? Will see tonight after my class.
Cheese tofu.
Kuya can write a lot of letters already! My goal is for him to be able to write his own name and all the letters of the alphabet :) Makes me so happy every night after dinner, when he himself would wait in his study table for our tutorial :)
Photos of our handpainted fabrics I took yesterday.
Anticipation of July.
Those 3 guys in the photo.

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

a better day

2011-06-15T20:23:00.001+08:00

Thanks to those who left warm comments. Feeling a little better today. Reading Tuesdays With Morrie helped. For those who haven't read the book yet, better do. Will make you realize so much about life --- and death.

These photos make me smile. My very special batchoy so engrossed with my stamps + tim holtz ink... future stamper? :)

kapoy

2011-06-14T12:31:00.003+08:00

I know these things are just fleeting. They are not the ones that will give me lasting happiness.... but with some stressful and tiring family hullabaloo back home (as if I don't have my own cross and a million concerns too) I am honestly tired. Trying my best to feel ok.

I wish I could just focus on the positive and happy and selfish and worldly stuff ...like being DT? Thank you Creative Scrappers for making me part of the team (and sorry I had to announce in such a foul mood... I hope I can make it up to you) *sigh

... and thank you so much American Crafts! My goodies for winning the challenge arrived (smile a bit but thinks about problems and frowns again) *sigh

It means, these things can't take those problems away.

I know what can but too negative to do anything :(

****#*#*#*&@#&@&@&@&!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

what i missed

2011-06-09T12:37:00.001+08:00

Last night while I was out with my scrapping friends and hubby was out with his kodakero friends....

Thanks Mae! Great job! :)

i dream of this

2011-06-07T23:53:00.001+08:00

Crafters who meet often and have so much FUN....

*photos from Etsy.

life less ordinary

2011-06-07T12:57:00.007+08:00

This time of the month is my least favorite time. All women will know why. I just have this huge hate with my pms. It makes me a monster. Worst, the monster feels awfully guilty after every monster-act. Just like how I scolded my 5 year old for trying his best to make me NOT do this layout while I was so EXCITED to finish everything. I snapped. Felt guilty. Put this aside. Played with him. Trampoline. Tunnel. Then I gave him my ipad (as peace offering). Now he is happily playing.... I'm happily blogging. But I can't tell how many minutes this good mood is gonna last *sigh* A friend tweeted me last night to pray the rosary. Her twin suggested I'd exercise. I resolve to do both today. God is my refuge. All the time.

Color room pallete #61 and Creative Scrappers sketch #159 inspired me to make this layout. The color palette is just perfect fot my already-printed photo! This layout tells of how grateful I am of the less-ordinary life God gave me. Even if there are days like this, He never fails to make me realize He is constantly on my side. His blessings and love over powers all bad days combined.

...used my doily stamp, MS puncher, and recycled butterflies using prima packaging and added some stickles.

... cut a bird cage, used it for masking, used 3d flower die to make these roses using prima pps, and the center bling was given by Mamang from the Philippines.

... can you see the cracks courtesy of rangers crackle paint?

Supplies:

paper: prima

dies: sizzix

punch: MS

crackle paint: ranger

glimmer mists: TA

stickles

stamp: bridal stamps (kodomo) & fancy pants

That's all for now! So far good mood is still here... I think next to prayer and exercise, scrapping (provided my son has my ipad) helps me get over these least favorite days =) we'll see!

ordinary days... extra ordinary moments...

2011-06-06T15:25:00.003+08:00

That's what I have in mind when I was planning this class. Often times, we take pictures by having everyone to pose and say "cheese!" in special occasions, in parties... but I believe photos taken "everyday" have more stories to tell! These are the photos we usually take with our iphones and digital cameras. Unplanned, spur-of-the-moment shots are genuine. When we look at those photos, we couldn't help but be grateful of the life we have, the people who really matter, and the times when we feel most at peace. Do you have those kind of photos? I have tons of them!

Thus, I offer you this class...

A wonderful album to hold your huge stashes of seemingly ordinary yet immensely precious photos because it is these little moments that make life big! Using Maya Road and Bo Bunny's Adlib Collection, finish 20 (yes twenty!) 8x8 layouts in 3 hours! And have a raving good time playing with paints, mists, and add dimension to your pages using Sizzix dies, glossy accents, stickles, washi tapes and Maya Road embellishments!

Please contact Made With Love at Tel. 68373464 or 62388770 for registration and details such as workshop fees, what to bring, etc. Thanks and I hope to see you there! :)

twas a fun night!

2011-06-04T11:15:00.003+08:00

A simple card to say THANK YOU to all of you who "liked" my entry for American Crafts challenge!

I had so much fun with my sisters last night via skype, while we helped each other campaign for more votes! Couldn't stop laughing! (HAHAHHAAHAHAHAH! Now I'm laughing again!). I never hoped to win the challenge coz earlier that day I was way behind the one leading the race. But when the votes started coming in, I got excited!!! Until everyone in the family, my friends, my relatives all got excited too!!! I wish you could imagine what I mean here hahahaa....

So after 3 hours of getting everyone to vote, I won the challenge!

THANK YOU SO MUCH!

Especially to: Dit2 and Che sa pag pulaw kampanya, Papang and Badilla Clan (hahhaha), my fellow scrappers, my LCC students led by Ryan, my Sibol student Chrishanie, my cousin Jang2, my LCC friend Merasol, FEC representative Eugene, Aysi for posting my entry to her wall, Tito Freddie and family (hahaha!) my BFF Mary An and cousins (lol), my NC Way responsibles Ben and Teray .... it was really really really fun last night i couldn't stop laughing!!! The experience and the thrill was way more valuable than the prize i'd get... it's really true, it's the journey not the destination.. even if i didnt win, I feel victorious because that led me to chat, keep in touch and laugh with many people I didn't realize I have missed so much! :)

Now let's hunt for more challenges! Just kidding! hahaha!

when it rains...

2011-06-02T11:08:00.005+08:00

It really pours! I have been overwhelmed. Both with good and not-so-good happenings. Life is too challenging, fulfilling and too colorful that it makes me speechless....

...my barcode strips project was liked at 2peas!

...Moments layout for Made With Love won May's challenge over at Crate Paper!

... and this father's day card I made for Emeline's challenge was featured over at Websters!

Can you imagine how happy I am right now? Thank you 2peas, Crate and Websters! Got so inspired that I was able to finish this LO for Sketchy Thursdays in less than 30 minutes :)

Journaling: " One fine day in the train, we had such fun time taking photos, taking turns with the SHADES your Daddy gave me THE DAY you were born! love, Mom. "

... and then, here's a capture-the-moment collage of our very simple anniversary date @ IMM. So happy that Kuya finally likes ice cream. Never liked it since the day he was born. 5 Years was such a long time right? But at least, the degree of joy we all felt when he finally is able to get crazy over a .70 cents cone is worth the wait! He is able to request for it confidently: "I want ice cream!" Very precious words coming from Kuya! Miguel's moment that day was when he took his very first photo: "Daddy's right leg". Did you spot it? lol!

Lastly guess what I found?

*so giddy when I got it!*

Got so many things lined up to blog about.. Kuya's very first Eucharist.. my new class at MWL... my miserably failing at trying to lose 2 kgs... and so much more.. but I'm afraid you'll get bored with this long post and would unfollow me lol.... Thank you so much for visiting. This also goes to all who just silently lurk. Though I honestly wish to get to know you :D There's time for everything! Hanggang sa muli. Hugs :)

“Lord Jesus, through the gift of your Holy Spirit, you fill us with an indomitable spirit of praise and joy which no earthly trial can subdue. Fill me with your resurrection joy and help me to live a life of praise and thanksgiving for your glory. May I witness to those around me the joy of the gospel and the reality of your resurrection.”

8 years ago...

2011-05-31T09:26:00.004+08:00

I got married to Benjo Rulona. May 31, 2003 *flash back with Jim Brickman music* it hasn't been an easy life. For people closest to us, they know we are happily married. Blessed. But we have struggles. Major ones. The hardest struggle is having a child with special needs (that would be a different story, I will blog about it when the right time comes, ok?) But all in all, we are very blessed. It's because of the 3rd person in our love triangle.

God has been our first love. When trouble comes, we look up to HIM. Not immediately all the time. For there are times we falter. But sometimes, even when we fail to be faithful to Him, He is always there to rescue us. He has done so many miracles in our life. I can only look forward to many more challenging and happy years with my family, without fear, knowing that we have a mighty and loving God, taking care of everything!

So as remembrance of our 8th year, I made this special present for Him and Benjo... A book containing not just photos of our guests, but precious memories of our family, friends, loved ones who witnessed our union and were one with us in sealing our love triangle with God. Can't thank them enough!

Here's a slideshow of what's inside....

Happy 8th anniversary Baby! I love you very much! :)

bar code strips challenge

2011-05-30T11:31:00.003+08:00

Long before I heard this challenge, I have been collecting these cute American Crafts bar code strips! They are so cute and useful! So thrilled to finally have the motivation to play with it =) so with the help of my favorite Sizzix die, I made some gift boxes using confetti bar code strips as "ribbon"...

Happy Monday! =)

life is wonderful

2011-05-27T15:20:00.004+08:00

... because I'm in my favorite room, with two noisy cuties who just wouldn't leave Mommy alone, but strangely I like it. In fact I was able to finish some tasks despite their noise, constantly getting my attention. One minute I was stamping the next minute we were already having a masquerade ball ...

Here's a birthday card for a friend. Happy birthday Momi Marge! May God bless you more! You are such a simple, kind, sweet friend. I hope to see you soon...

Supplies:

paper: prima (botanical collection)

die: Sizzix

punch: Martha Stewart

stamp: Fancy Pants

ink: versa fine, versa mark-water mark

embossing powder: Ranger

sculptured flower: Donna Downey/Prima

pen: sharpie

Mommy! We're home! =)

2011-05-26T10:08:00.000+08:00

i heART echo park!

2011-05-25T21:34:00.003+08:00

I love Echo Park so much. It's simple. It's happy. It's refreshing. It's fresh. Just what the world needs right now! I remember once, it was the eve of my 36th birthday, I wrote an open letter to Madison Park, shamelessly declaring my wish to be his company's design team. Lol! To my surprise he replied (see his reply on the comment section of my post). I couldn't believe It! Even until now. It may just be one fellow with nothing much to do lol. But if it really was him, then I know why EP is so successful and so loved by scrappers around the world. Because the owner himself is so down earth, taking his time to reply to his humble fans like me :)

Now there's a Fresh Faces Campaign.

ME: Should I give it a try? *grin*

YOU: Go! There's no harm in trying.

ME: What if I don't make it?

YOU: You try again next month.

ME: lol!

Okay, kidding aside, I wanna share 3 projects I designed using my most favorite: A Walk in the Park. It's very versatile and so fun!

... For this wall inspiration, I used Donna Downey stamp, Sizzix "inspire" die,

buttons and my own handwriting :)

... mini cards :)

... boxes for?

a. birthday gift

b. party favor.

c. thank you gift

d. valentine

e. "just because" gift!

There you go guys... Thanks for looking and I hope you had fun looking at my projects :)

See more HERE.

Wordless Wednesday: me time :)

2011-05-25T13:56:00.001+08:00

thankful tuesday: haircut

2011-05-24T09:48:00.006+08:00

For the longest time, 3 years to be exact, Kuya didn't want a barber to cut his hair. He would protest with all his might. It's because he has some sensory issues with scissors, clippers and an unfamiliar person touching his hair. There's only one and only person who could ever do the job --- Mommy. In all fairness to me, he looked good in the past 3 years (or so I thought!). We got used to it. Even Miguel followed the trend. Mommy does the boys hair. Until we saw Junior League @ ToysRus! I figured, the kids might like it there coz of the toys surrounding them, the TV screen showing their favorite Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, the balloons, lollipops and stickers!

True enough, Kuya loved it! Was teary eyed seeing him sit still, with little protest but so manageable that Aunty Wenda kept telling me he is a very good boy (and handsome the nth time). What a big surprise that was, Kuya! You made Mommy and Daddy so happy :)

Miguel's protests were stronger than Kuya! (But of course, it was his FIRST!) But some explanation and a little bit of bribing, he complied and sat on the chair. He cracked us all up when he called our attention saying: "I want lollipop!" Maybe he thought: Since Kuya had it, lollipop must be part of the process lol *See photos*

Another bonus was the very kind and sweet Auntie Wenda who did all her best to make my boys feel comfy. She's heaven sent. Plus, hubby and I couldn't help being so amused seeing our two boys in green hair and glitters! Super cute! =) That day was really unforgettable. Will definitely miss wearing my "barber" hat but what can I do? Boys grow up. They need a "real" haircut. lol!

Thank You Lord! =)

great weekend CHECKLIST

2011-05-23T13:50:00.001+08:00

For me, having a great weekend means being able to...

be with my boys
clean house
cook yummy Filipino dish
drink fresh fruit shake done by hubby
go to church
do some crafts
go to the nearby park
take lots of photos
listen to music
dance
watch TV
clean house
spend nothing :)

I did all those! Thanks to hubby for saying no to my suggestion of going to the mall. Coz I know if we did, I won't be able to happily post and brag about how great my weekend was! Nothing beats the feeling of having a simple, quiet, uncomplicated "country life" (just pretending we're in a country setting okay?).

One of the blessings of our current location is this beautiful park just across our block. It was drizzling so we brought umbrellas. The kids enjoyed the playground, the sand, the "hepopopomes" according to Migs. It was fun! Thanks to dear hubby for taking the nice photos!

Here are the cards I made using Sizzix tag die, and embossing folder... these cards are for sale HERE.

"end of the world"

2011-05-21T16:23:00.002+08:00

There's no better way to spend "the last day" than say a prayer, to cook a sinful pork meal, dance with hubby and kids in a total of 10 tracks (making them so tired they all sleep) and scrap, most definitely!

This is my "last" layout...

Love this photos so much. It was one candid moment in our bedroom. Naptime. Tickle time. Cuddle time. We do that daily. And when in times I'd forget to have that moment. The little one would say, "Mommy, I want to yab yab (love love) on the bed!" Oh so precious precious everyday moment I will never ever get tired of doing.

Used toy box and neighborhood collections from crate paper (my latest paper crush!) and to make those heart and star shapes, I used this die:

Do I really think it's the end of the world? Who knows? It could be today. Tomorrow. Next year. Next decade... I don't really make a big fuss out of the prediction. It could happen anytime. To anybody. That's why I always try to remind myself to choose to be happy each day. To capture each ordinary but genuine moments. To choose time with family and loved ones over earning more money. I am not saying I have perfectly done it. I falter at times. But it helps to try and try. Little by little. In God's grace. Because only through Him are all these things possible.

But really, though I try to live as if it's my last, I don't think it's my last day today :D and so I was just joking when I said it's my last layout :D

Hugs to you XOXO :)

finally friday video: Groom My Room

2011-05-20T20:40:00.002+08:00

Started this day very early. Walked to the train station with hubby. Took the train with hubby. Enjoyed the train ride with hubby. Had fun in class. Bought the papers I have been wanting to buy. Went window shopping at Spotlight and Daiso. Ok I bought a few things. Ate alone at Mo's Burger. Felt guilty because I ate at Mo's burger. Went home. Cuddled with my two chubby cheeked boys. Watched Hailey say goodbye to American Idol...blah... blah.. blah...

What was I saying? I am actually lost. lol. I think I wanna have some wine. While I watch this video taken by hubby while I was on TV!!!! Did you hear that? *proud grin* :D

More photos HERE :)

pink

2011-05-17T15:00:00.000+08:00

Pink bed... pink blanket... pink chair... pink bag... pink manicure set... pinkkkkkk! That's what you can see in her room. You wouldn't believe it when I tell you how old she is (peace Dit! hahaha) because her room is fit for a debutante... a princess. So I think this lamp I altered is just perfect for her.

Showed this to her via skype earlier today and Im so happy she loves it! Even said this is by far the best present I have ever made haha! Thanks to Sizzix for the flowers, cage dies.

Happy birthday manghud! I love you dearly... Thank you for always being there for us. Anytime. Anywhere =)

Is MOTHERS DAY necessary?

2011-05-09T12:05:00.004+08:00

For the past years, I really make a big deal out of special days like these. But lately (maybe it's really like this when you get older? Wiser?) I feel like it doesn't really matter. EVERYDAY should be mothers day, birthday, Christmas day.... all the special days that we can think of. Somehow I understand those who say, all these special occasions are just "marketing strategies" of this worlds capitalists.... consumerism in other words.

Life is too short. I believe it is so sad to think that we need to wait for another mothers day to tell our mothers we love them. Who knows if I am still alive tomorrow? It's a cliche but I want to always remember to live my EVERY day as if its my last. So help me my God!

Nevertheless, I still, somehow like mothers day :) so I made these layouts {using Echo Park's Life is Good papers} to honor my two lovely mothers...

HE is because she is: "You'll know she's the best mom, because he is the best dad and husband"... I always say this, over and over, how blessed I am to have her as my mom-in-law. So supportive, so understanding, so kind of her affirmations for me. She never gives me a hard time! She respects me as her son's beloved :) She's the coolest... I love her!

GIRLS just wanna have fun: "Dearest God, If I had my way, I want more kids, more girls... It's more fun, more help when needed, more laughters and tears... most of all, more gifts on mothers day =)" ... I love this photo taken at our home in Bacolod on New Year's Eve... mother complied to our "arte" pouty glam pose hahaha! I love my mother so much. I just want her to be happy always...

Mothers day tags made of American Cratfs Abode line... so cute are these little cups, saucers and laddle prints! {inside the boxes are my special moist brownies}

One thing that made this day special this year, is that we spent the whole day with our community for a monthly convivence. And I had goose bumps upon listening to the random gospel chosen for the day. It was about the two mothers Mary and Elizabeth. It felt like Jesus was celebrating with us! Awesomeness!

Ordinary scene but sweet moment preserved in our cam: walking towards our block after alighting bus 961 =)

And our way of celebrating mothers day: PIZZA! We don't usually do this as we think it's expensive than home cooked meal. lol but the boys ate so much! Kuya kept on asking for more. It looks like we are gonna do this often. Di kabayran =)

Now, to answer my post's title: Is mothers day necessary? I believe so... It is very necessary. Everyday.

finally friday! video and a shout out!

2011-05-06T10:30:00.004+08:00

A huge CONGRATULATIONS to Made With Love for opening another "heaven" for scrappers in Indonesia! Look what they have prepared for all scrappers out there.... a grand opening celebration workshops by none other than international scrappers we all love...

And for a "finally friday video" tradition I am starting now... here's a video treat... especially dedicated to my boys' grannies: Lolopapang, Lolamamang, Mommyla and Daddylo who's watching from heaven. Frankly, I was grumpy earlier this morning but seeing these videos made me feel a bit better :)

Video 1: Kuya seldom dances. So when he did the other day while we were in Orchard (one of his favorite places, thus the happy mood), we were all so happy and I am glad I had my cam ready!

Video 2: The queue was insanely long, it was raining, but this little fella was excited to go to gymboree. I tried to negotiate with him if we could schedule gymboree next time but he insisted to go and was even so proactive by trying to get a cab! lol!

That's all folks! Let's DECIDE to have a good day! :)

Miguel's Baptism Scrapbook & Guest Book

2011-05-05T15:36:00.004+08:00

Finally! After more than a year of on and off attention to this special project, I finished Miguel's baptism scrapbook! A 33-page 8x8 album documenting our angel's very special day. Thank you to all our family, friends, especially his godparents who shared that day with us. Thank You Lord for giving us our little hero!

Thank you for looking! :)

happy birthday Dulcinea Badilla!

2011-05-03T09:55:00.006+08:00

She's the youngest of the 5 of us her siblings. She loves our parents to death. She is crazy for her nephews and nieces. She loves us all --- her family and vice versa. Today is her birthday so most definitely I shall have a wish for her... Now let me think... She's got the body, the brains (just passed the board as a Criminologist! Congrats!), the money (?), the career she loves, she has almost everything. Except a husband. There! hahahhaha!

So my wish and my prayer for you my dearest sister is that you may find time to attend Word and Eucharist and seek Him, listen to Him, tell Him what you need to tell Him... who knows amo na ang ginahulat ya para maka siguro sya ng Sya gid ang una sa imo heart... the He will tell 'someone' to ask you to marry him and you will say YES. Hahahhaha. You know naman si Lord kis-a somekinda jelling2 :)

*for my international friends, pardon me for talking in a language only me and my sisters understand. I feel it's best to speak in that manner so she really gets my message lol

Happy birthday manghud! Love you much! Mwah! :)

... Ikea frame + prima stash + color room inspiration = something special!

from Kuya...

from Miguel...

A letter for Miguel...

2011-04-29T15:28:00.004+08:00

Dear Miguel,

I think I have mentioned before that I blog so that you, my children, and your children's children are able to have a glimpse of our life. One of those moments I want to preserve is your birthday :)

You turned 3 last April 17 and what a day it was!

You woke up to a simple but certainly special breakfast! I made your favorite chocolate cake, Daddy prepared balloons, and Tita Mae cooked some of your favorite breakfast. Ate JJ was there too! You were so thrilled, so happy that you couldn't stop talking about everything you saw :) That could have been enough for the day but there was more....

still a bit sleepy

the cake

pajama party? :)

reading the card from Tita Min

We went to Singapore Zoo. The most beautiful zoo in the world! And going there, though unplanned, we took a not-so-ordinary vehicle... a Benz limo :) what a special ride! And "specialness" of the day kept unfolding because once inside the car, you kept on talking and talking to uncle driver until he found out it was your birthday... so...

He asked us if he could stop at a convenience store to buy you some treat! How sweet was that? I was so happy for you because it is not every day you meet a person like him. Who wouldn't mind about his precious time. Who was glad to "stop and smell the flowers". Who would go an extra mile to make your day a little bit more special in his own way. Another surprise not just for you but for me and Daddy. I thank God for that sweet moment! :)

...thank you Uncle! He spent even more than we paid him for the ride :)

but his being with you for a moment is beyond money :) it's priceless!

Kuya was very happy too!

We were all so excited in the zoo! We've been there as a family a number of times but this time is different not just because it was your birthday but because it was first time for you to go there sans the pram and you are big enough to really appreciate everything including being in charge of the map!

daw korek

Here comes another reason for us to say, God loves you so much He makes everything special for you, and that He approves the idea of not having a big party for your birthday...

You and Daddy queued for the tickets, when another Pinay who got a privilege card or something approached me if we wanted 50% from our (adult) tickets! What do you think I answered her? haha! But that's not all! When it was your turn at the counter, the staff found out again it was your birthday and asked us if we could show some ID to prove your birthdate. There was none so I suggested that they ask you, because kids won't lie :) and you said: "April 17!" That got you a free ticket, a free ice-cream from Ben & Jerry's, and a birthday badge! Some staff saw you wearing it and greeted you a happy bday and you answered back: "Thank you! No problem!" hahahahaha!

Then, your bandmates (I'll upload your vidoe performing as a band soon) Tim and Paul dropped by to give you their present! We all sang a happy birthday song for you to your delight! And that capped your 3rd birthday. Yes, in pajamas! :)

I hope when you see this post and these photos someday, you will feel and believe how much you are loved by us your family, and by everybody not just because you are really so lovable (see for yourself in my previous post, but because you are you. Thank God for giving us a son as adorable as you. You are an angel in every way. Thank God too that He made that day so meaningful and so special. A kind of birthday you so deserved! I love you very much 'nak.

Love,

Mommy

P.S. Let's see what Daddy has to say on the comment section of this blog :D

{Click here for more photos: breakfast surprise, zoo part1, zoo part2, bandmates surprise}

coaster mini album

2011-04-27T09:58:00.002+08:00

Using Maya Road and some papers from Crate Paper Toy Box collection, I made this coaster album for MWL's store display featuring my 3 year old Miguel...

At 3, he is able to do a lot of things!

reads a book from cover to cover, including those from Dr. Seuss.
reads random sentences being shown to him.
counts from 1-100
counts from 1-100 by 10's
can do some simple addition!
is able to recognize/read bills and coins! and knows the concept of buying what he wants!
prays "Angel of God" and some spontaneous prayer before sleep. It amazes me how he is able to recall the happenings of the day.... and the people involved...
reads time! but would need a little help at times :)
sings songs with perfect tune. and he would set up his "sound system" using his toy guitar, microphone, and some accompanying music using some of his musical toys...
asks WHY questions and answers them too.
can stay in a back-to-back conversation for a long time, making a lot of adults want to have a chit chat with him :)
rides a trike
rides a scooter
is crazy over all sorts of vehicles! Cars, trains, fire engines... etc.
reads TV show titles. including those from TFC (The Filipino Channel) such us "Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin" hahaha!
has an excellent memory, can oftentimes memorize addresses, plate numbers, etc!
very sociable. loves to be with people.
loves "cooking" and often says he is "Junior Master Chef - Australia" lol
is 100% potty trained!
so loving, sweet, caring, funny, energetic... and so much more.

We are all so blessed to have you in our life Anak. I love you sooooooo much.... Daddy loves you so much. Kuya is in love with you he can give you a million kisses in a day! And thanks to Tita Mae for loving you and for helping me take care of you too :)

Thank you for looking!
And Thank you Aida for giving me the supplies for this project :)

what can you do with 10 eggs?

2011-04-24T16:08:00.002+08:00

10 egg shells

papers

paper shredder

brown cardstock

white pen

egg tray

jelly beans

EASTER TRAY!

10 egg whites

3 cups white sugar

cream of tar tar

vanilla

MERINGUE!

10 egg yolks

condensed milk

sugar

water

LECHE FLAN!

all of the above

Daddy's cam

Mommy's annoyingness (lol)

Tita Mae's help

Kuya and Miguel's cuteness

Easter Party! :)

Happy Easter!!!

Let us shout with joy today because our Saviour is risen!!!

{P.S. Easter Vigil and the whole Easter experience was awesome as usual. Will blog about it soon. We need to go to now for a swimming fun at Paul and Tim's place!}

while waiting for EASTER...

2011-04-21T22:39:00.001+08:00

I offer my days of silence, prayer, fasting, reflection, and thanksgiving for God's mercy and love...

*Photos were taken by hubby.

find you. be you.

2011-04-18T10:19:00.003+08:00

I'm in the middle of so many things one of which is being overly joyous for my son's simple but best-ever birthday yesterday, but I just have to share this layout for Made With Love using Sizzix and AC Peachy Keen. I scraplifted the title from my all-time no. 1 favorite scrapper, Lizzy Kartchner.

... round-a-bout alphas. Don't you just love it!!!

... handmade flower (and the pink felt border too) using CHA realeased die, Aplique.

... love using my own hand writing in every thing I make :)

... and here are the dies I used:

Thank you for looking! Got to prepare now for my FLORILICIOUS class. xo!

because i think i can

2011-04-14T09:50:00.004+08:00

I just want to celebrate my "7 kilograms" success on trying to lose weight! Daily exercise, less rice, lots of fruits and water. I still eat my favorite chips, pastry and pork but not as much as before. And I think the flu helped me too haha! I managed to monitor my progress to inspire and motivate me. It's at the right --->

I hope to lose 5 more kilograms before my sister-in-law's wedding! I can do it! I believe I can! =)

another ordinary post

2011-04-09T14:41:00.002+08:00

One ordinary day.

Showing ordinary card.

And an ordinary tag.

Made in an ordinary room.

JUST KIDDING!!!! :)

Everything I post is SPECIAL.

All my handicrafts are special because they are made with LOVE.

And this place, where I am now is BEYOND special because this is my HAPPIEST place of all.

I hope I made you smile :)

Have an EXTRA-ordinary weekend!!!

Lots of good news to share!

2011-04-08T18:16:00.004+08:00

First, I am well now! Yipee! Bye cough! Thanks for not coming back again...

Second, I receive the goodies I won from Iris! So happy to get not just the mini album which my idol made herself but also a card with a thoughtful thought! Who wouldn't grin from ear to ear? =) =) =)

Thank you so much Iris, you are so kind and thoughtful, not to mention genuinely talented! You inspire me all the time. May God bless you more and more! :)

Okay, my third good news...

Went to an awesome baking shop at Marsiling with Joyce ... and look what I got!!!...and look what we baked!!!

... super moist choco cupcakes and...

... my very first FONDANT icing!!! yehey!!! So happy to finally do it =)

... aside from these blessings, I am so happy to be able to keep in touch with my brother's family in Cavite through my sister Dit2, and an occasional skype chats with my sister Anne2. Nothing compares to the joy we feel when we are in communion with our family.

What a beautiful life. Thank You God!

$25

2011-04-07T17:12:00.000+08:00

... goes to my coin bank because I did this myself for 2 good hours!