De's Blog

A New Home

2011-04-28T20:16:00.003+09:30

..I am not sure if anyone still follows this blog, but I have moved to a new home over at Wordpress.

Come and visit me over at:

www.geekgirlde.wordpress.com

and don't forget to add me to your GoogleReader :)

Cheers, De xxx

Tonight (I'm Lovin' You)...Enrique!

2011-02-13T20:32:00.001+09:30

these boys are so talented!!!!

2011-02-06T14:41:00.002+09:30

meet john gallagher jr (johnny), michael esper (will) and stark sands (tunny) - 3 uber talented boys in the most awesome theatre performance i have ever been to...twice. do you really expect anything less when it comes to green day and the super hot billie joe armstrong (who guest starred as st jimmy during the performances we saw)...

...oh, and don't forget this one

2011-02-06T14:32:00.003+09:30

HEY ITS CHRIS BROWN!

love this one at the moment too - chris brown is back!

...and this song too

2011-02-06T14:27:00.001+09:30

it was our official new years eve 2010 song and it feels like forever ago...so much has already happened this year!

love this song right now...

2011-02-06T14:25:00.001+09:30

i was so sad to hear bruno mars was a bad boy - he seems so sweet in his music videos...oh well, great song anyway!

Book Review: "I Heart New York"

2011-02-06T13:23:00.007+09:30

I Heart New York revolves around English girl Angela Clark who flees to the Big Apple after discovering her fiance is cheating on her. To make matters worse it is revealed that her best friends knew about the affair. After a cringe worthy confrontation at her besties wedding (involving her breaking the groom's hand with her Louboutins) she takes off over the Atlantic Ocean, running away from her life in London.

I picked up this book as something light to read for the flight back home during my recent (as in last week) trip to the States. Everything I had brought with me was too heavy, even the other chick-lit I borrowed from K before I left. The writing style of this book was perfect, exactly what I was looking for. The writing was very easy to read, short concise sentences and the dialogue was simple and straight forward without complex jargon. The pages flowed easily and before you know it half the book is over.

There's no argument the story line is a little far fetched, pure fantasy. But it is certainly a guilty pleasure :) and I loved every second of it. This is the perfect mix of drama, shopping, designer name dropping, love, romance and making of kooky crazy friends. It is the first time in a while that I have read a book that I did not want to put down.

The only downside of this book is I am incredibly jealous of Angela's new life and that I am no longer in NYC to enjoy the sorts of things she is enjoying. I want to be back in New York City shopping in Macy's for designer clothes, a picnic in Central Park and I didn't get to take in the view from the Empire State Building at sunset!!!

I so adored this book and cannot wait to go back to this beautiful city!

Rating: 10/10 - read it for the ultimate escape!

Another Blog Overhaul...exciting?!?!

2011-02-06T13:17:00.002+09:30

Source: http://weheartit.com/entry/6904794

my god, amazing how we got this far, it's like we're chasing all those stars :)

2010-10-07T20:49:00.001+09:30

Secrets - One Republic

I need another story
Something to get off my chest

My life gets kinda boring
Need something that I can confess
'Til all my sleeves are stained red

From all the truth that I've said
Come by it honestly I swear
Thought you saw wink, no
I've been on the brink, so

Tell me what you want to hear
Something that were like those years
Sick of all the insincere
So I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect line
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

My God, amazing how we got this far
It's like we're chasing all those stars
Who's driving shiny big black cars
And everyday I see the news
All the problems that we could solve

And when a situation rises
Just write it into an album
Singing straight, too cold
I don't really like my flow, no, so

Tell me what you want to hear
Something that were like those years
Sick of all the insincere
So I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect line
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

Oh, got no reason, got not shame
Got no family I can blame
Just don't let me disappear
I'ma tell you everything

So tell me what you want to hear
Something that were like those years
Sick of all the insincere
So I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect line
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

So tell me what you want to hear
Something that were like those years
Sick of all the insincere
So I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect line
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away
All my secrets away, all my secrets away

Right About Now...I Want to Create Stuff

2010-10-07T20:29:00.001+09:30

DAY 2 - YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE

2010-02-22T23:13:00.006+09:30

The Breakfast Club (1985), originally uploaded by ∆P.

The Breakfast Club (1985)

Starring: Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy and Michael Anthony Hall

I love this movie so much! Even though I have seen it close to 100 times, I never cease to kill myself laughing all the way through. I first saw it when I was in high school and wanted so much to go to their high school. Back then Judd Nelson was so hot (now he’s kinda gross)!! John Bender is definitely on the list of fictional characters I would love to get down and dirty with!!! I always wished they would do some sort of sequel for this movie because I was dying to know what happened on Monday morning when school got back in. Did they ever speak to each other again??? I guess, we will never know!

Memorable Quotes:

John Bender: Yeah, I have a question. Does Barry Manilow know that you raid his wardobe?

John Bender: Hey, how come Andrew gets to get up? If he gets up, we’ll all get up, it’ll be anarchy.

[Richard Vernon places magazine rack in front of door to hold it open]
John Bender: That’s very clever, sir. But what if there’s a fire? I think violating fire codes and endangering the lives of children would be unwise at this juncture in your career, sir.

Claire Standish: What’s your name?
John Bender: What’s yours?
Claire Standish: Claire.
John Bender: Claire?
Claire Standish: Claire. It’s a family name.
John Bender: Oh, it’s a fat girl’s name.
Claire Standish: Oh, thank you.
John Bender: You’re welcome.
Claire Standish: I’m not fat.
John Bender: Well not at present, but I can see you really pushing maximum density. See I’m not sure if you know this, but there are two kinds of fat people: there’s fat people that were born to be fat, and there’s fat people that were once thin but became fat… so when you look at ‘em you can sorta see that thin person inside. You see, you’re gonna get married, you’re gonna squeeze out a few puppies and then, uh…

John Bender: Uh, Dick? Excuse me; Rich. Will milk be made available to us?
Andrew Clark: We’re extremely thirsty, sir.
Claire Standish: I have a really low tolerance for dehydration.
Andrew Clark: I’ve seen her dehydrate, sir. It’s pretty gross.

Richard Vernon: [From his office] Jesus Christ Almighty!
Richard Vernon: What in Gods name is going on in here?
Richard Vernon: What was that ruckus?
Andrew Clark: Uh, what ruckus?
Richard Vernon: I was just in my office and I heard a ruckus.
Brian Johnson: Could you describe the ruckus, sir?

Close Runner Up: Love Actually

DAY 1 - YOUR FAVOURITE SONG

2010-02-21T22:53:00.006+09:30

Boulevard of Broken Dreams - Green Day

Too easy!

This has been my favourite song for the past 4-5 years ever since I first heard it. It is so cliche, but I have always felt like this song “spoke” to me, it just got me! Even in the most happiest time of my life, where I was happy and in love, I always felt like, deep down…at the end of the day “I walked alone”. And now that I am alone, it feels even more relevant. This song is my comfort, it makes me reflect, reminise and dream of better, happier times…

“My shadow’s the only one that walks beside me
My shallow heart’s the only thing that’s beating
Sometimes I wish someone out there will find me
‘Til then I walk alone”

From my Tumblr blog:
http://geekgirlde.tumblr.com/post/402493879/day-1-your-favourite-song-boulevard-of-broken

MIA

2010-02-21T22:43:00.003+09:30

I know, I know!!! I have been missing in action for a while now!

I apologise I have been bogged down with work shit, doing loads of reading and spendin' a helluva lot of time on Tumblr, which makes me feel like I am 16 years old again stalking celebrities. This time around, all things Green Day/Billie Joe Armstrong are being cyber-stalked. I sometimes wonder whether I am the oldest person on the planet using Tumblr as all my "friends" appear to be 18 years old or younger. I am sure they will soon be sick of my lame old lady ways :).

I am doing a 30 day survey/challenge thing on Tumblr, which I may post on here as it's usually an easy way to complete a post. I apologise in advance if I cover ground already covered here...which I know I will...

boulevard of broken dreams - green day

2010-01-31T01:27:00.007+09:30

i have loved this song since the first day i heard it, long before my green day obsession began.

it has got me through a lot of really rough times and still does. i always go to it for comfort. it will always be at the top of any "favourite songs" list i have. i didn't actually think i could love it any more than i did, until i heard it live on the 14th of december 2009. billie joe just took it to a whole new level for me. i can't wait to hear it live again and i will!

a weekend of reading and relaxing

2010-01-27T06:24:00.004+09:30

Source: Crank, originally uploaded by Stephanielynne7.

the australia day long weekend didn't turn out too badly...

there was plenty of sleep ins, kicking back and reading. i finished both genesis (karin slaughter) and la candy (lauren conrad) yesterday/this morning and now i am paying for it this morning as i am now at work on 3 and 1/2 hours sleep. honestly though, you could get two more different books. once i finished genesis, i needed something light to get away from the depth of depravity which is karin slaughter's writing. don't get me wrong, i love her writing, but it just reminds me what kind of sick fucks are wandering around out there. la candy..meh, well it took right up to the end of the book to finally become endeared by the characters (which is handy for lauren conrad, because now i will probably buy her second book).

i am now 48 pages into a new book called "crank" by ellen hopkins. it was recommended by one of the groups i am in on goodbooks.com. yeah i know "geek alert'. its a young adult fiction loosely based on a parent's real-life experiences dealing with a daughter who is addicted to crank (which i am pretty sure is the equivalent of "ice" in australia). it is told from the daughter's perspective in a poety/prose format, which is taking some getting used to...

well i best get back to work, check out me the badass, updating my blog at work!!!

xoxo de

why he's hot (understatement!!)

2010-01-20T21:33:00.011+09:30

Source: originally uploaded by GreenDay_Forever!.

i found this yesterday at 'why they're hot' and just HAD to reblog it.
they are spot on on all five points!

1. those teeth.
never, EVER, has a man made crooked teeth more sexy.
you all know you want him to bite you.

2. his eyes.
those big, pale eyes covered in sexy eyeliner.
you can just feel him staring into your soul.
or, you know, other places ;)

3. those big, luscious, lopsided, lips.
they are begging you - BEGGING YOU - to kiss them.

4. his head of delicious, thick, dark hair.
it definitely looks like you could wrap your fingers in it and hold on for dear life while he did god only knows what to you.

5. his voice is like sex personified.
he is amazingly talented on top of being sexy as fuck.
although, you know you’d rather he be on top of YOU.
oh Billie Joe. why are you married?

stuff i can't live without -- 18.01.10

2010-01-18T15:38:00.002+09:30

Source: Hearts, originally uploaded by sandra...

* my moleskines -- i'll never know why it took me so long to find them
* really good pens -- life is too short to use crappy pens
* my sister -- my best friend
* my friends -- always there even through neglect!
* awesome coffee -- can't imagine a day without at least 4 cups
* really great food -- it is only recently i have learned how great really well cooked food can be
* coca-cola -- it's my medicine
* a creative outlet -- whether it be scrapbooking, journalling, blogging or photography, i need some way to express myself
* my passion for travel -- i hope it never wanes!
* my laptop -- which is someways my connection to the world -- and who doesn't love playing on their laptop in bed?
* buying and reading really great books -- need to do more reading and less buying these days!

Haiti Earthquake - 12/01/10 (16:57pm)

2010-01-17T15:43:00.002+09:30

Source: Flame 21, originally uploaded by DeusXFlorida.

I'm not usually one to jump on my blog and write about this stuff, but I have been reading a bit about Haiti on the net over the last few days and I felt compelled to mark it somehow...however inadequately...

So from here, I'll hand it over to Chad Kroger (Nickelback) who always has a way a striking the exact right emotion at the exact right time. This was one of a couple songs from their concert where I had to fight back the tears. Nickelback playing their arses off with images of "Doctors Without Borders" and "Amnesty International" behind them.

I am not by any definition an activist, I am much more a passivist, but music from the likes of Nickelback, U2 and more than ever, Green Day, makes me think, makes me question...

If Everyone Cared - Nickelback
From underneath the trees, we watch the sky
Confusing stars for satellites
I never dreamed that you'd be mine
But here we are, we're here tonight

Singing Amen, I'm alive
Singing Amen, I'm alive

If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
We'd see the day when nobody died
And I'm singing

Amen I, I'm alive
Amen I, I'm alive

And in the air the fireflies
Our only light in paradise
We'll show the world they were wrong
And teach them all to sing along

Singing Amen I'm alive
Singing Amen I'm alive

If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
We'd see the day when nobody died
If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
We'd see the day when nobody died

And as we lie beneath the stars
We realize how small we are
If they could love like you and me
Imagine what the world could be

If everyone cared and nobody cried
If everyone loved and nobody lied
If everyone shared and swallowed their pride
We'd see the day when nobody died

We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day, we'd see the day
When nobody died
We'd see the day when nobody died

Tagged...

2010-01-08T21:19:00.004+09:30

Source of Awesome Photo - Fireworks

I love questionnaires and I found this one over at http://notebookdoodles.blogspot.com

1. what is your current obsession?
Writing in my moleskine journals, I wish I had more to say, simply so I can write in it more.

2. what are you wearing today?
Work clothes - black top, grey pants and ballet flats.

3. what’s for dinner?
Roast potatoes with Paul Newman's Caesar Dressing - I know, I know, I couldn't be bothered stopping at the supermarket on the way home.

4. what’s the last thing you bought?
Three books from Angus & Robertson...

5. what are you listening to right now?
Detective Goren on Law & Order: Criminal Intent

6. what do you think about the person who tagged you?
I don't really know her too well but I love blog and doodles.

7. if you could have a house totally paid for, fully furnished anywhere in the world, where would you like it to be?
Penthouse Apartment in New York City.

8. one thing you wanna change about yourself?
I wish I had the ability to just let go and be happy.

9. if you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go?
Singapore to see Green Day live again!!! I "heart" Billie Joe!

10. which language do you want to learn?
Italian - again!

11. what’s your favourite quote?
"Whatever doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger"

12 . would you cook for me?
Maybe, how do you feel about homemade bacon and egg pie???

13. what is the right way to avoid people who purposefully hurt you?
I don't know...I usually attract these sorts of people...

14. what are you afraid of the most?
Dying alone...

15. who do you want to meet right now?
Billie Joe Armstrong {Green Day}

16. what is your favourite color?
Lime green, dark chocolate brown and of course, teal!

17. give us 3 styling tips that work for you.
1. Black, black and more black, it is slimming!
2. Every girl must own a hair straightener.
3. Only very skinny girls can get away with skinny jeans!

18. what is your dream job?
Owning my own successful shop. I am tired of working for someone else and making them rich off my hard work.

19. what’s your favorite magazine?
NW and Famous for the gossip.

20. if you had $100 now, what would you spend it on?
Stationary and probably clothes.

21. what do you consider a fashion faux pas?

Everything I wear!!! :)

22. who according to you is the most over-rated writer?
JK Rowling -- sorry love the Harry Potter movies, can't get past 10 pages in the books.

23. what brings a smile on your face instantly?
Cute stationery, Lindor chocolates, my sister.

24. a word that you say a lot?
"Awesome" or "Seriously???"

25. what kind of haircut do you prefer?
Short, lots of layers to thin out my thick hair, a bit shorter around my face and it HAS to cover my ears.

26. what are you going to do after this?
Go to bed and read more of my book (Skin Privilege - Karin Slaughter).

27. what do you do when you are feeling low or terribly depressed?
Cry, sleep and eat chocolate --- always makes me feel better.

28. what makes you go wild?
Inconsiderate people!

29. what are your favourite movies?
The Breakfast Club, My Best Friends Girl, Zoolander, Meet the Parents/Fockers, Not Another Teen Movie... I could honestly go on forever....

30. what inspires you?
Traveling, taking photos and clean white notebook pages.

31. what do your friends call you most commonly?
de and rarily debees.

32. would you prefer coffee or tea?
Tall Skinny Latte, 2 sugars, please?!?

33. which other blogs do you love visiting?
Loads --> see my sidebar.

34. favorite dessert/sweet?
Cupcakes, lemon merangue pie, chocolate and raspberry tart (Richmond Hill Larder) and M's lime cheesecake.

35. how many tabs are turned on in your browser right now?
Surprisingly only 2, usually there's at least 10.

36. when you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought?
My gawd, that is a massive pimple -- 31 and still getting pimples!

37. favorite season?
Winter, winter and more winter!

38. one wish that you really want to see it come true?
i don't want to share it cause it won't come true, if i do.

39. what breaks your heart?
Having a broken heart :) and cruelty to animals.

40. what's one thing you really want to do in life?
Find happiness and keep it!

xoxo, d

View from My Window...

2010-01-06T20:20:00.003+09:30

Source: New York City at Night - A View from the Cooper Square Hotel Penthouse

I wish!!!!!
My secret (oops) blog prompt list, said today I needed to take a photo from my window and blog it.

Well I have already used a few photos from MY window in blogs, so this time I decided to blog a view from someone else's window...well a New York Hotel Penthouse window to be exact.

How awesome would it be to go to sleep every night with this view? It probably looks just as awesome in the morning when you wake up!

Ah New York City...soon we shall meet and become life long friends!

xoxo, d

"New York!!
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of,
There's nothing you can’t do,
Now you're in New York!!
These streets will make you feel brand new,
The lights will inspire you,
Let's hear it for New York, New York, New York"
{Empire State of Mind - Jay Z}

My Morning Routine - Weekdays

2010-01-05T21:57:00.003+09:30

Morning Coffee (3), originally uploaded by geekgirlde.

Strange as it may sound, I actually love getting to work before everyone else. People think I am strange getting to work before I actually need to be there, but it is this hour or so of quiet time that helps me get mentally prepared and ease into the day.

Every week day morning I cruise into Bluebag and they already know my order - large skinny latte and a raspberry muffin. If I don't go in one morning for whatever reason, they always ask me "what happened?" when I next go in. Nothing quite like being an appreciated frequent customer!!!

Then I pop upstairs to my office and kick back and relax drink my coffee, check my emails and occassionally read the paper. I just ease into the day, no sudden movements, no interruptions, no phone calls -- perfect!

I "heart" this morning routine!

xoxo, d

P.S. Gossip Girl tonight!!!! WTF????

Argh...Back to Work!

2010-01-04T22:30:00.003+09:30

View from My Room - Sunrise, originally uploaded by geekgirlde.

I can't believe Christmas is over and it was back to the grindstone today! I was so not looking forward to going back to work today as I knew there would be two weeks worth of work to catch up on! Oh the joy! But hey I survived, more or less :)

One of the few things I like about going back to work is throwing open the curtains at 6am and seeing this sight. I just love the city skyline. Quite often I may be running late as I cannot always resist the urge to go out onto the upstairs balcony and snap a few shots. I especially love it when the hot air balloons are taking off. None this morning though

Then I pop downstairs to my funky little car and speed off to work, rocking out with Green Day all the way into the City. This is another thing I love about weekdays. The same people must pass me everyday thinking "is she STILL listening to Green Day??" Hell yes! It is all Green Day, all the time my friends! Deal with it!

Well it is almost midnight and I am back to work again in the morning...is it really only Monday??? Must be because The Hills and Rock of Love Bus was on tonight. Monday night television = bitches and skanks!.

Until Tuesday....

xoxo, d!

"I beg to dream and differ from the hollow lies.
This is the dawning of the rest of our lives.
On holiday!!" [Holiday - Green Day ]

What I'm Reading Right Now

2010-01-03T16:04:00.005+09:30

I am currently reading 2 books right now (odd, because I can usually only read one book at a time). And these books could NOT be any more different.

1. Skin Privilege - Karin Slaughter

Truth be told, I have been reading this book for months and its not that I am not loving it, I just wish I had more time to read. Its a great book and I love this author and the Grant County series. About halfway through at the moment, getting some pressure from a friend to hurry up and finish so we can talk about it. I'm working on it...

2. L.A. Candy - Lauren Conrad

I am obsessed with The Hills right now and when I saw that Lauren Conrad had written a book I just had to get it, despite it being marketed as teen fiction. Hey, I'm a teenager at heart, right? So I qualify. Truth be told, it's not great. It doesn't really read very smoothly and it is so blatently based on Lauren's life being on a reality program like The Hills. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing.

"No matter how busy you may think you are, you must find time for reading, or surrender yourself to self-chosen ignorance.” {Confucius}

xoxo, d

Reflecting on Christmas 2009

2010-01-02T16:53:00.001+09:30

Christmas Bauble 2009, originally uploaded by geekgirlde.

This photo makes me smile as it is one of the baubles on my and Michelle's Christmas Tree. We were very excited to get our own Christmas tree this year and decorate in our own fashion. This year our colour scheme was silver and purple and we carried it right through to the wrapping paper and candles (with only a couple of tiny exceptions). As much as we both would have liked to get a real tree (mmm...THAT smell), we decided to go for one of the fakies Target had on special during the first week of December.

As a general rule, I love Christmas! I love decorating the tree, buying and wrapping presents, counting down to the big day, Christmas foods and Christmas crafting (although I didn't really do too much of that this year, despite signing up for Shimelle's Journal Your Christmas Challenge).

xoxo, d

"At Christmas play and make good cheer, For Christmas comes but once a year."

Welcome to 2010!!

2010-01-01T17:07:00.006+09:30

New Years Day 2010 "In Thought", originally uploaded by geekgirlde.

A New Year Always Means a Fresh Start!
Despite 2009 ending in a not-so-fantastic manner I am feeling positive about this year. I have a series of things I want to work towards to put myself back on track and really start to live my life again.

In 2010, I resolve to:
(1): Save Money for a Trip to New York City next January!
This year was a year of spending. Now I need to kick the spending habit to the curb and start saving for a trip I have wanted to take for the past couple of years. I intend going with or without a traveling companion!

(2): Say "Yes" to Friends More Often!
No more "no's" and no more stupid excuses!

(3): Finish my Certificate IV in Book-keeping!
ie: actually finish something I have started!

(4): Try and Become More Healthy!
Its always on the list but in light of a good 9 months of excess. its time to take this item a little more seriously!

(5): Keep on Creating - Every Day!
Whether it be scrapbooking, journaling, blogging, I need to do something to express myself creatively every day!

And finally,
(6): Smile More and be Less Grumpy!

xoxo d!

"A little bit of resolve, is what I need now.... A little bit of resolve!" {Foo Fighters}

Farewelling 2009 in a Most Stormy Fashion

2009-12-31T20:27:00.003+09:30

Watching an awesome thunderstorm over Melbourne City is how I am spending this evening. Its a nice and somewhat comforting way to see out a really rocky year! And anything is better than the way I spent last NYE! Trust me!

I heard a cool quote from a friend from Darwin...

There comes a point in your life when you realise who matters, who never did, who won't anymore and who always will! Take true friends with you into 2010, I know I will!

You all know who you are...

Pimpin' my Blog

2009-12-30T21:59:00.003+09:30

Well Christmas is done and dusted for this year and there is only 1 day left of 2009!

As you can see, I have spent the better part of this evening playing around with and updating my blog. It's a little bit purple and a little bit emo...but it will do just nicely for now!

Heaps of stuff going on in my head at the moment, things aren't too rosey in DeBees life right now! I will be glad to see the end of 2009 and am welcoming 2010 with welcome arms!

See y'all on the other side!
xoxo d.

"No matter what happens or how bad it seams today...
Life goes on...
And it will be better tomorrow!!"

Return from Self-Exile and a New Project

2009-12-02T19:08:00.005+09:30

Why hello there stranger!

It is true, I have been MIA for about six weeks. Which is actually small break considering my last few hiatus'...bet you all thought I would be gone for weeks...months, even. But no I am back on board and refreshed, ready to tackle my next project.

Which brings me to another Shimelle Laine project I have signed up for, Journal Your Christmas! Ahh..more Shimelle-love in my inbox every day! *heart* This one of her most popular classes and I am very excited to be a part of it. I was a bit hesitant at first...but I thought what the 'hey', you only live once and its all pretty flexible, you can do as much or as little as you like. I have decided to take it pretty easy and if time permits (not so likely at the moment) I can lash out and do a layout or two. For now, I will be recording my journal in a Moleskine "Cahier" Notebook each day and then upload them to my blog every day or so. If I get the time or inclination I may look at creating a mini album out of all of my journal entries.

The first prompt asked us to create our manifestos or mission statements. My manifesto was very closely related to example Shimelle provided in her prompt.

"Starting today, Tuesday 1st December 2009, I will keep a Christmas Journal! I declare that I will make the time each and every day until the 12th Day of Christmas to reflect on Christmases past and present. I will also dream of Christmases to come.

To some this journal and subsequent layouts nay simply be random stacks of paper and trivial scribbles, but not to me. I am taking back my Christmas. I am letting it be something I cherish and most importantly, I am allowing myself 15 minutes of creative expression every day, no matter how crazy the season becomes.

This season I will create something with my own two hands, my own words and my own memories and reflections.

So let the Christmas 2009/10 season commence...

xoxo de"

And that is day 1, done and dusted...
Catch you soon,
d

This week I "Heart"

2009-10-18T14:16:00.006+09:30

Big weekend of keeping myself busy! Not a great deal of sleep unfortunately...but lots of watching movies, scrapbooking, uploading photos, udating blogs/journals, doing the washing, surfing the internet...anything to keep busy and get through this weekend!

This week I "Heart":

This girl --> We had Naomi's Hen's Night on Friday night and when KF organises a party, you know you are going to have a fantastic time. There's a reason that I love this girl so much, she's my best friend and she always knows how to make me laugh!

Glee! Yep Still Lovin' this show the most...
Drew Barrymore - saw Whip It! this week, she is just the coolest chick in the world! Love, love LOVE Drew Barrymore forever!
Roller Skates --> see previous above - I want a pair but they are sooo expensive.
Skinny Cow Chocolate Ice Cream --> 97% fat free and it don't even taste like it! Hell to the yeah!!!
Scrapbooking Catchup - working flat out on catching up on Shimelle's LSNED class, see below for layouts from the 8th to 17th of September, 2009.

de xoxo

I Hate Myself For Losing You - Kelly Clarkson

2009-10-17T22:18:00.005+09:30

I woke up today
Woke up wide awake
In an empty bed
Staring at an empty room
I have myself to blame
For the state I'm in today
And now dying
Doesn't seem so cruel

And oh, I don't know what to say
And I don't know anyway
Anymore
I hate myself for losing you
I'm seeing it all so clear
I hate myself for losing you

What do you do when you look in the mirror
And staring at you is why he's not here?
You got what you deserved
Hope you're happy now
'Cause everytime I think of her with you
It's killing me
Inside, and
Now I dread each day
Knowing that I can't be saved
From the loneliness
Of living without you

And, oh I don't know what to do
Not sure that I'll pull through
I wish you knew
I hate myself for losing you
I'm seeing it all so clear
I hate myself for losing you

What do you do when you look in the mirror
And staring at you is why he's not here?
I hate myself for losing you

And oh, I don't know what to do
Not sure that I'll pull through
I wish you knew

And oh, I don't know what to say
And I don't know anyway
Anymore
No, no
I hate myself for losing you (I'm seeing it all so clear)
I'm seeing it all so clear
I hate myself for losing you
What do you do when you look in the mirror
And staring at you is why he's not here?

What do you say when everything you said
Is the reason why he left you in the end?
How do you cry when every day you shout
"Don't ever bring him back again?"
I hate myself for loving you

I don't know what it is about Kelly Clarkson's songs, they always seem so relevant to me..it's sometimes scary! She may not be as cool as P!nk or Fergie, but there is always room for Kelly Clarkson on my iPod...the girl gets me!

No Air - Jordin Sparks (featuring Chris Brown)

2009-10-12T19:59:00.006+09:30

Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no air

If I should die before I wake

It's 'cause you took my breath away

Losing you is like living in a world with no air

Oh I'm here alone, didn't wanna leave

My heart won't move, it's incomplete

Wish there was a way that I can make you understand

But how do you expect me to live alone with just me

'Cause my world revolves around you

It's so hard for me to breathe

[Chorus:]

Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no air

Can't live, can't breathe with no air

It's how I feel whenever you ain't there

It's no air, no air

Got me out here in the water so deep

Tell me how you gonna be without me

If you ain't here, I just can't breathe

It's no air, no air

No air, air

I walked, I ran, I jumped, I flew

Right off the ground to float to you

There's no gravity to hold me down for real

But somehow I'm still alive inside

You took my breath, but I survived

I don't know how, but I don't even care

So how do you expect me to live alone with just me

'Cause my world revolves around you

It's so hard for me to breathe

[Chorus]

No air, air

No more

It's no air, no air

[Chorus x2]

No air, air

This week I "Heart"

2009-10-11T19:22:00.007+09:30

It turned into a bit of big week this week. Well lots of little things which have turned it into biggish week. All I know is every week gets closer to that week off I have in November...

This week I "heart" in no particular order:

Black Eyed Peas - Live in concert in the mosh pit at Rod Laver.

My new haircut - Thanks Lisa awesome job yet again.

PS2 Buzz! Trivia

Homemade Bacon & Egg Pie

Glee - love the whole cliche-ness of it all - why couldn't I have gone to that school? I'm a gleek

This diary from Kikki K -- which I just got for Christmas, thanks Mum & Dad -- even though they don't know it yet! :)

xoxo d.

Goodbye Miss MooMoo

2009-10-10T09:24:00.003+09:30

Why do cats like hiding out in clothes drawers?

Today we salute little Mitsy Brown-Humm who is sadly leaving us today! After battling valiantly with all sort of serious problems...turns out a damn infected tooth is what will bring the little battler down. You will be sorely missed little girl and my heart goes out to K&M today as this is not an easy thing to go through. I love you guys!

xoxo d

Day 30 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-10-02T21:27:00.006+09:30

Wednesday 30th September, 2009

It's the last day of the month and the last day of Shimelle's Learn Something New Every Day class. This month has gone by so quickly, in the blink of an eye, it has swept passed. I haven't done a great deal over the past month (the next few are going to be HUGE, all the way through to Christmas!), but looking back over my entries for this class, I feel like I have learned so much about myself. As cliche as it sounds, this is me raw and uncensored. It did take a while for me to let down my guard and release my inhibitions, but I got there eventually. The whole process has actually inspired me to continue doing this to some degree, even if is just a commitment to blog what I have learned once a week, rather than daily.

I have had an awesome time doing this class with Shimelle. So much so I immediately signed up for her Journal Your Christmas class before this class had even finished...

Which leads us to for the final time...

Today I learned that I am so going to miss Shimelle's emails in my inbox every day AND I learned that if I put my mind to it, I really can see these sorts of projects right to the end!

Farewell September and thank you Shimelle Laine!

de xoxo!

Day 29 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-10-02T21:25:00.006+09:30

Tuesday 29th September, 2009

A day of ups and downs today, mostly downs. I don't feel much like dragging it out on here. Lets just say that it feels horrendous when someone thinks that the really bad thing that has happened them is all your fault, when the truth is you had absolutely, truely, nothing to do with it.

Today I learned that the smartest thing I did today was to keep my mouth shut and rise above all the drama!

Grrr...it annoys me that this project is coming to an end and I am wasting the entries on negative energies!

de xoxo!

Day 28 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-10-02T21:23:00.004+09:30

Monday 28th September, 2009

S and I decided to start eating healthy this week as we have both been eating so much shit and are now suffering the repercussions of such actions.

It actually wasn't too hard and I am feeling so much better already. I was thinking I really need to do some sort of detox program, but the thought of going one day without caffiene would be unbearable. So we'll go baby steps for a while.

Today I learned healthy food can be nice too!

de xoxo!

Day 27 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-10-02T21:21:00.004+09:30

Sunday 27th September, 2009

Another weekend bites the proverbial dust and its back to work tomorrow for what I am anticipating will be another hellish week at work. One of my part timers finishes up on Tuesday, so now, instead of being scarily snowed under with work, now we will be ridonkulously busy, snowed under and short staffed. Oh the joy! Can't wait to get out of bed tomorrow morning!

As usual everytime I have more than 2 minutes alone...my thoughts run to the same person. Its my little secret...

Today I learned that I could live without you....but I really don't WANT to!

de xoxo

Day 26 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-26T19:07:00.003+09:30

Australian Rules Football Grand Final Day today! Big day for my family as their team is one of the teams in the final, the Geelong Cats. Its not my team, mind you, I'm the black sheep of the family and go for the Carlton Blues, who went out in the first week of the finals. Anyway, it was horrendous day in Melbourne today, thunderstorms, rain and hail. Not ideal footy weather, playing or spectating! I spent the afternoon at home alone watching it on the TV.

Anyway Geelong were the victors after an excruciating tight, hard fought match over St Kilda Saints. So all in my family are happy little Vegemites this evening.

Leading us into today's lesson:

Today I learned that even if my football team isn't playing in the AFL Grand Final, I still struggle to control the tears. It is such an emotionally charged one day in September!

Off to watch 2.5 hours of "In Treatment" -- love this show, must be the psychology student coming out in me!!

xoxo, de

Day 25 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-26T18:40:00.003+09:30

Friday 25th September 2009

Yay -- Thank God It's Friday! Found out at work today through a work friend that another colleague has issue with me. This is not the first time my friend has told me about this person. The previous time my friend told her that she should talk to me about it and I welcomed the opportunity to find out why this person felt the need to bitch about me to someone else. So I have been waiting for this person to talk to me for the past few weeks and there has been ample opportunity for her to speak with me. But she hasn't, so I thought all was ok between us. It should be noted that she resigned a couple of weeks ago and is due to finish up next week. I was assured by our boss that it had nothing to do with me, but I can't help but feeling that this may be the second person I have driven out of my workplace. Anyway, she had another "conversation" with my friend today and I just said to her, I don't know what I have done wrong and if she won't talk to me about it then there is nothing I can do to fix it! I know I am not always a nice person to be around, particularly in this job, because I am under so much pressure. But please give me the opportunity to make some sort of amends. I am not a heinous bitch, truly I'm not!

Which {eventually} leads me to:

Today I learned that I have no control over what people think of me. And I can be ok with that.

xoxo, de

Day 24 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-26T16:12:00.004+09:30

Always the true crime buff...

Today I learned that the Manson Family murderer Susan Atkins died of brain cancer on this day, exactly where she should have been....BEHIND BARS!

Atkins had been trying for a grant of Compassionate Release from her life sentences, but was denied on every level. To quote the Governator, Arnold Schwartzenegger:
"I don't believe in [compassionate release]. I think that they have to stay in, they have to serve their time ... [T]hose kinds of crimes are just so unbelievable that I'm not for the compassionate release."

xoxo, d

Day 23 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-26T15:47:00.003+09:30

Wednesday September 23rd, 2009

The City is in the grip of AFL football fever and everyone is talking about Brendan Fevola's inebriated performance at the Brownlow Medal on Monday night. The pride of the Carlton Football Club! Lovable larrikan or aggressive man with an alcohol addiction?? Very fine line at this stage. Only time will tell.

Today I learned that the term "hump day" has been around since at least 1955...all I know is its all down hill to the weekend from here!

xoxo, d

Day 22 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-26T15:30:00.003+09:30

Tuesday September 22nd, 2009

Very uneventful day at work and then home to watch America's Next Top Model (Cycle 12) on Fox8, which is our Tuesday night guilty pleasure. I want Alison to win because she is so gorgous and quirky, but I don't think she will, she's not stereotypically beautiful enough.

Today I learned this quote about regret by the enigmatic Lucille Ball"
"I would rather regret the things I have done, than regret the things I have not done"

xoxo, d

Day 21 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-26T14:55:00.002+09:30

Monday 21st September 2009

Moving very close to the end of the month and the end of this project (although I do believe I will be working on the pages well into October). Back to the grindstone today, fully expecting another busy week at work!

Today I learned that it really does feel nice to do things for people when you truly DON'T expect or want anything in return!

xoxo, d

Day 20 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-20T18:04:00.003+09:30

Had another great day at home today catching up with my best high school friend K. We haven't seen each other since June, so it was great to catch and suss out a few people from our past on Facebook. Looking forward to catching up again next month for our friend N's hens night. It seems like all my friends are getting married, I am sure F will be next...

Today I learned that there is nothing like spending a Sunday catching up with a really good friend over coffee!

de xoxo

Day 19 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:58:00.002+09:30

Have had a great day hanging out at home with Shell, she cooked me brunch before she headed off to work. I have spent the rest of the day furiously catching up on these lessons, doing my washing, uploading my Beyonce photos from Tuesday night and updating my iPod. I also watched a movie starring my-girl-Drew Barrymore called Grey Gardens. It is about Eadie Bouvier Beal and her mother Edith were the first cousin and aunt, respectively, of Jackie Onassis Kennedy. It was the saddest story I have heard seen in a very long time. The contrast between the wealth and celebrity of Jackie compared to the abject poverty and eccentricity of her cousin Eadie is absolutely gob smacking!

Today I learned that I don't want to be defined by my broken heart anymore, and I want to grant myself the serenity to accept the things I cannot change!!!

de xoxo!

Day 17 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:57:00.010+09:30

Thursday September 17th, 2009

Work is so full on at the moment and I have to go to court tomorrow. We are in the process of suing someone for not paying their bills and I need to go along to prove the Accounts side of things. I am really nervous as I have never been to court before and I have no idea what to expect. I am terrified that I am not prepared enough and I going to look like a fool.

Today I learned that there are not enough hours in the day for me be as prepared as I want to be!

de xoxo.

Day 16 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:57:00.009+09:30

Wednesday September 16th 2009

Long rough day at work, lost my cool a bit, but managed to mend all broken bridges prior to the end of the day.

Today I learned that I really need a holiday!!!

de xoxo

Day 18 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:57:00.008+09:30

Friday September 18th, 2009

Ooh, I have a horrendous headache! I was in court all day today, I was so stressed that when I went to the toilet after the first break I found I had huge rash on my chest from the stress. It is so daunting sitting in that sort of environment. B took MU and I to lunch and we were able to vent about work a bit. I was the first time MU and I were able to ascertain which team B was batting on the office politics. In the end, we pretty much won our case, which was good news.

Today I learned that "no" is a word I need to use before I run myself into the ground.

de xoxo.

Day 15 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:56:00.010+09:30

Tuesday September 15th 2009

Had an AWESOME time at Beyonce tonight with K&M. It was such a fun concert with dancing and singing up in the back row. The audience was so loud and pumped up, the atmosphere was awesome!!!

Half way through the month and half way through Shimelle's Learn Something New Every Day class. As such Shimelle has suggested that we reflect on why we are doing this class. So without further ado:

Today I learned I am doing this to:

reflect on my life

have a reason to be creative every day

realise my sense of purpose

realise I CAN learn something new every day!

Thank you Shimelle!!! :)

Day 14 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:56:00.009+09:30

Monday September 14th, 2009

Today I learned a new sunrise means a brand new day in your life...

Feeling much better about things today after talking to Mum last night.

I'm very excited about going to see Beyonce tomorrow night. Particular after the controversy from the VMA's earlier today...

http://www.mtv.com/videos/misc/435995/taylor-swift-wins-best-female-video.jhtml

The results from this:
*Poor Taylor Swift :(
*Beyonce is a beautiful selfless person, and most importantly:
*Kanye West is a complete and utter wanker and I will now be deleting the one song I have of his on my iPod.

Day 13 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:55:00.008+09:30

Sunday September 13th 2009

Today I learned that regardless of all the shit that goes on in my life, I have a family that truly and unequivocally loves me, for being me!

I had an long and incredibly emotional talk with my Mum tonight on the phone and she has really helped me put things right in my head. Honestly, she has not said anything that I don't already know, but she has a way about her that makes me realise that life is what you make of it and you have to go out and get it, because it is not going to come and knock on my door. She made me realise that I am altogether too hard on myself and I need to stop punishing myself for a situation that was not entirely my fault. She is right...she is always right! Its her job, she's a super mum!

Day 12 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-19T18:55:00.007+09:30

I have been a bad, bad girl, not updating my posts everyday for this class! At least, I guess, I am using my Moleskine notebook to make notes every day...

I had a very frustrating weekend/week last week mean't I really didn't feel like updating or reflecting too much. Anyway...moving forward....

Last Saturday's lesson:

Today I learned that I need to plan my weekends better so that they don't feel so wasted!

This has been an ongoing "problem" for me in recent times.

I feel like I work so hard all week and look forward to the weekends but they seem to fly past so fast and I feel like I have achieved nothing and consequently I am wasting my life.

Its just my mind set, I understand that, but I can honestly say, that up until this year, I have never truly felt like my life is wasting away, that I am just a passenger in my life.

More Blog Updates...

2009-09-13T00:05:00.002+09:30

Day 6 & 7 blogs updated with layout photos....

Blog Post Updates...

2009-09-12T15:32:00.002+09:30

Day 4 & 5 blogs updated with layout photos.
I've got to keep moving much to do today!

Day 11 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-11T19:11:00.005+09:30

A little bit of reflection for today's entry...

Today, 8 years ago, I learned that the world had changed, forever. On that day I, along with many others, lost my innocence and realised my naivety!

I am sure everyone has a September 11, 2001 story. Mine is certainly nothing special, but I will never forget where I was and what I was doing on that day. I will never forget how different the world became from that day on.

My breath still catches in my throat every time I see that plane hit the South Tower. I don't think I will ever become desensitized to it and I hope I never do! To this day every time there is a "Breaking News" flash across the TV, I hold my breath and say to myself, "not again, please not again".

Watching the TV documentaries tonight, one thing remains true...on that day, we saw the absolute best and absolute worst of humanity.

Another sad reality...it will happen again. It is just a matter of time.

de xoxo

Day 10 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-10T19:26:00.005+09:30

Quick post tonight 'cos I really need to get to bed..after Hamish and Andy's Caravan of Courage of course!!!

Today I learned that sleep is more important than I give it credit for. No sleep last night means I cannot function today!

I was literally falling asleep at my desk this afternoon and actually considered walking next door to 7-11 to pick up some "No Doz" to get me through the afternoon. Luckily I made it through on coffee and lollies. Not exactly the healthiest option...but it was all about making it through.

Tomorrow's Friday! Thank goodness, I have many layouts to catch up on...

Until then... zzzzzz!

De xoxo

Day 9 - Shimelle's LNSED Class

2009-09-09T19:34:00.003+09:30

Oh its 09.09.09!!!
Eerie, thankfully the day has passed without incident. Which is always a good thing.

Today's Shimelle's prompt asked us to think of something we are grateful for. I am grateful for many, many things, my family, my friends, my hot-as reliable car,a job that keeps me busy every day and pays me every fortnight, the roof over my head, the money in my bank and this gorgeous city I get to call home to name but a few. I am also grateful for the following:

Today I learned...that I am oh-so-grateful for my morning coffee! Make my a LARGE skinny latte with 2 sugars! Thank you Bluebag Collins Street!

I have to have my coffee every morning, it helps me turn for a super sleepy monster into a normal human being who has the ability to interact civilly with the other human beings in her office!!!

I was listening to this song in the car on the way home from work tonight...

Stereophonics - Have A Nice Day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rPe0BtYvTA

I haven't listened to it for a long time but I have always loved it loads! It is one of those songs that always make me smile. So I think I should make a concerted effort to listen to it every day...and then maybe I will be in a better mood when I get to work everyday...

Day 8 - Shimelle's LNSED Class

2009-09-08T19:01:00.007+09:30

Another full on day in the workplace...hanging out for it to back off a bit, but that's a while off yet!

The weather has been crazy in Melbourne this past week, which leads us today's lesson learned:

Today I learned that Melbourne's weather is crazy. This past week, according to the calendar, was the first week of Spring, but Melbourne says...hell no!!! It has never felt more like winter!

I love winter, it is my absolute favourite season. It is what I missed the most about living in Darwin for the past 7 years. So there are no complaints with my regarding the weather, I say bring on the rain and freezing blustery winds. I just find it humourous that when calendar tells Melbourne, hey its Spring turn on the sunshine, Melbourne just says "screw you buddy", I'm bring on the rains (and we're not talking spring showers here either) and the dark gloomy days.

I just realised today that it is one week until I go and see Beyonce with K & M. That has come around so quickly. Looking forward to see them again and going to another concert, it seems like for ever since we saw Eskimo Joe in concert.

De xoxo

Day 7 - Shimelle's LNSED Class

2009-09-07T20:59:00.003+09:30

Rude awakening today! I have been away from Melbourne for the past 7 years...and I recently discovered the following....

Today I learned...that Melbourne Show Day is no longer a public holiday!!!

What the f**k has been going on this state while I have been gone?!?!? Not that I am one for going TO the Show, but it is a public holiday. Why are there LESS public holidays, when there should be MORE public holidays??? Madness I tell you!

Well, its Monday again. I think that it is going to be a long hard week at work again. I am just going to try and ride through the bumps and try to stay positive. And what better way to end a Monday night than with Mr Bret Michaels and the classiest ladies that the United States of America has to offer on Rock of Love Bus??? LMAO Ha, ha, ha, ha! Poor guy, he's just trying to find love....

Until tomorrow....

de xoxo

Day 6 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-07T19:57:00.004+09:30

On Sunday, I decided to go for a bit of drive and suss out some of the scrapbooking shops around my area. There aren't any in my immediate area, all of them are at least 20 minutes away. But I thought, what better way to spend my Sunday morning? I had a feeling that they would be closed but I thought I would peek in a few windows and see whether they would be worth a return trip when the shop was open. I have been a little disappointed in not being able to find a local scrapbooking shop since returning to Melbourne. I actually thought there would be more options in Melbourne, than Darwin. And there may very well be, just not in the inner-Western suburbs. I have had to resort back to online shopping at Two Peas, which is a cheap option...until you add in the astronomical pricing for shipping!

Anyway, I jump in my little automobile and off I go with my Google map sitting on the passenger seat for a quick reference. Well I missed the first turn off, but that's ok, I'll just take the next one. Well, to cut a long story short, I finally got to my location about 20 minutes later than I should have, flustered and frustrated beyond belief. Which brings me to:

Today I learned that my sense of direction has become practically non-existant in recent times. I can get lost ANYWHERE!

So then I made my way home all dejected and ordered a bunch of stuff on Two Peas to make myself feel better. One thing is for sure, a GPS for my car is on the 2009 Christmas List!!!

Day 5 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-07T19:37:00.007+09:30

Today I learned that Jake Gyllanhaal is more than just eye candy...the boy can act!!! (*see: "Rendition")

I watched this movie on Saturday and then again on Sunday. What a great movie! Awesome acting by Jake and Reece Witherspoon. It was so prolific and gripping. It raises many questions and gives a lot of food for thought. I loved it.

Shimelle's LSNED Class - Post Updates & Title Page

2009-09-05T14:48:00.003+09:30

Have had a pretty lazy Saturday this morning, it has been a lovely day in Melbourne town, despite being a little overcast. I really enjoyed my little sleep in...and now I am getting stuck into my Shimelle class layouts. Here's my title page which has that little wrinkle in it which is annoying the crap out of me. Its a shame because I actually like the page.

I also finished my layout for the 1st of September and posted it in my blog entry for the 1st.

Well must get back to it, I have several more days to catch up on...

Day 4 - Shimelle's LSNED Class

2009-09-04T21:10:00.006+09:30

As Shimelle is based in London and I am in Melbourne, I quite often don't get my prompts emailed to my inbox until after I finish work each day. With me being approximately 10 hours ahead, my day is almost over by the time I receive Shimelle's inspiration email. So I have decided that I would try and think of my own lessons and fall back on Shimelle's ideas when I get stuck or to help inspire some new lessons. Up until today, I have really felt like I was slipping behind and that I could never seem to catch up. So from now on I follow my own lead.

Today I learned that my feet really appreciate it when I take advantage of "Casual Friday's" and wear my cute flats to work!

It was so nice to get home without the usual aching feet. Don't get me wrong, I love my boots to the point of obsession, I really do wonder about the damage they are doing to my feet and more importantly, my already troublesome knee. It makes me ask myself the question, what price do I put on my own health in the pursuit of fashion?

On a lighter note, thank god its the weekend! It has been such a long week, I can't believe how much it has taken out of me physically, emotionally and mentally. I joked today that I would go to sleep when I got home tonight and not wake up again until Monday morning. I certainly feel like I could sleep the entire weekend away, but I won't. I plan on motoring through these Shimelle LSNED class layouts, read a little, watch some DVDs and generally try and kick back and relax, so that I can be refreshed for what is going to be another huge week at work! Then maybe I won't be such a heinous work colleague! :)

Until tomorrow, when I should be able to show some layouts! YAY!

Day 3 - Shimelle's LSNED Class & New Moon SCORE!

2009-09-04T20:45:00.006+09:30

Just so I can eat my words from yesterday....

Today I learned that sometimes when you think no-one notices how hard you work...someone does something to make you realise that some people DO notice!!!
Thank you B!!!

Yesterday when he got to work, B put a box of Lindt Lindor balls on my desk. Actually he waited for me to walk away and then he snuck them on my desk - too sweet! HELLO, these are my most favourite chocolates. I had already knocked off 2 blocks of the Dark Lindor chocolate this week - and I complain about still getting pimples at age 31?!?!? Give me a break ok, its been a tough week, LOL!

Also, I managed to score Shell and I tickets to the New Moon Premiere at the La Premiere cinema at Chadstone. Yeah, Chaddy is a bit out of the way, but hey, New Moon only premiere's once in a lifetime. That is the same week of Britney and Nickelback, talk about a full on week. I can't wait!!!

Day 2 - Shimelle's LSNED Class & New Moon

2009-09-03T20:13:00.007+09:30

Today I learned that if you are competent in your job, you will be taken advantage of!

Work has been a real headcase in the past few weeks. It has been so busy and it seems like no matter how hard you work or how many hours you put in, its not enough. I'm not immune to hard work, but I am human! I can't be there 24/7! As it is, I am working six days this week. OK, I did volunteer to do it, but a little gratitude wouldn't go astray!!

ARGGHH!

In other news...I got an email today about the premiere of the Twilight Saga: New Moon. Tried to get tickets to Director's Suite but it looks like they were sold out already! We decided to hold back and maybe not get tickets on opening night, because we really want to lash out and go the Director's Suite tickets.

xoxo

Day 1 - Shimelle's LNSED Class

2009-09-02T19:15:00.006+09:30

Well, the first day of September has been and gone and therefore I must have learned something right? That's the whole purpose of doing this class right? I have to say it is so daunting, realising, what if I didn't learn anything today??? Of course, that is completely ridiculous, we all learn something every day! Its just that we don't actually realise that its actually happening...

After thinking about Shimelle's prompt, which is basically describe something you have learned in your home today, I have come up with:

Today I learned, that no matter how I wish and hope, the Housework Fairy just does not exist!
It goes to show, you don't need to be living with a boy to have a housework-challenged household.

It's a little bit of a fun one to start off with! Which is kind of the tone I want to set for the whole month.

I'm hoping to at least blog my "lessons learned" everyday and then probably work on my layouts on the weekends. I might get one or two done during the week, depending on how full on work is. Which is pretty full on at the moment...I am sure there will be plenty of lessons learned there.

Thank you to all the gorgeous girls who commented on my last post. I am looking forward to catching up with you all on the shimelle.com boards.

de xoxo

Shimelle's LSNED Class - Album Cover

2009-09-01T21:01:00.008+09:30

I have finished my covers for Shimelle's LSNED class. I had so much fun doing this, I love these colours together and I am still on the butterflies and glimmer mist bandwagon. Can't kick that habit just yet. LOL!

I have spent ages over at the shimelle.com forum (http://www.shimelle.com/forum) looking at all the other great efforts and now have a list of blogs as long as my arm to keep up with.

I can't wait until tomorrow when the 1st email prompts are sent through...I am so excited! I don't know what to expect, but I am excited all the same...

New Scrapbooking Layouts Uploaded

2009-08-29T16:43:00.005+09:30

Hi All,

I have updated my Flickr site with new scrapbooking layouts and mini books.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/geekgirlde/

I have really been bitten by the bug this month...which is a bit of a breath of fresh air. It goes to show, if you look hard enough, there are other things to scrap other than..well you know!

So here's to a newer, brighter De --- she is loving busting out these pinks and purples!

Note: All layouts heavily influenced by the gorgeous Shimelle Laine!! Do yourself a favour and Google her! She rocks!

Shimelle's Learn Something New Everyday Class

2009-08-29T10:13:00.008+09:30

I have signed up for Shimelle's next online class, "Learn Something New Everyday".
I am very excited as I have been wanting to one of Shimelle's classes for years...ever since I saw the layouts that came out of her Journal Your Christmas classes.
The class was really cheap at approximately $16.00 AUD.
Each day you get email prompts and access to Shimelle's forum.
And the great thing about her classes is once you pay, you can sign up for free for that class, every year it run thereafter.
Yay! Something to look forward to for the month of September 2009!!!

FAR AWAY - Nickelback

2009-08-29T00:22:00.003+09:30

This time. This place.
Misused. Mistakes.
Too long. Too late.
Who was I to make you wait?

Just one chance. Just one breath.
Just in case there's just one left.
'Cause you know.
You know. You know.

That I love you.
I have loved you all along.
And I miss you.
Been far away for far too long.
I keep dreaming you'll be with me and you'll never go.
Stop breathing if I don't see you anymore.

On my knees, I'll ask.
Last chance for one last dance.
'Cause with you, I'd withstand.
All of hell to hold your hand.

I'd give it all. I'd give for us.
Give anything but I won't give up.
'Cause you know.
You know. You know.

That I love you.
I have loved you all along.
And I miss you.
Been far away for far too long.
I keep dreaming you'll be with me and you'll never go.
Stop breathing if I don't see you anymore.

So far away.
Been far away for far too long.
So far away.
Been far away for far too long.
But you know.
You know. You know.

I wanted.
I wanted you to stay.
'Cause I needed.
I need to hear you say.

That I love you.
I have loved you all along.
And I forgive you.
For being away for far too long.
So keep breathing.
'Cause I'm not leaving you anymore.

Believe it.
Hold on to me and never let me go.
Keep breathing.
'Cause I'm not leaving you anymore.

Believe it.
Hold on to me and, never let me go.
Keep breathing.
Hold on to me and, never let me go.
Keep breathing.
Hold on to me and, never let me go.

Smitten

2009-02-09T01:29:00.000+09:30

I have been bitten by the Twilight bug. I finished the book today and to my surprise I found the movie was still playing at Casuarina. So before I chickened out , I booked and paid for one lone ticket to tonight's 9:30 session. As it turned out Janelle and Tim were there to see Twilight, so I didn't have to sit alone and there was only like 2 or 3 other people in the cinema, so it was almost a private screening. I knew from stalking the Internet that the movie wasn't as good as the book (and let me tell you, the book was awesome!!!!), but it still a cool movie. Edward is is just stunning (it's kinda a shame Robert Pattinson has to talk), Bella is sweet, Rosalie is a serious biatch, Jasper is just plain weird. But Alice was just gorgeous and so cool! Lovin' Alice and Edward the most!

Can't wait to get the next book now.. for some more Cullen goodness!

New Pretty Things!

2009-01-30T21:28:00.002+09:30

Hey there....

Just had to share my brand new purchase! Hopefully having this mean more entry's on the world's most neglected blog.

Stay tuned for bigger and better things to come...

And In My Neck of The Woods...

2008-07-28T19:29:00.016+09:30

I love long weekends....I just hate going back to work after a long weekend. Even though it went fast work was such a drag today, I have so much work to do and I just couldn't be bothered and finishing the day off with an IT information seminar with a couple of vodka mixers to top it off, didn't help at all.

So we had Show Day on Friday which was the whole point of the long weekend. We didn't actually go to the Show, we had a nice relaxing weekend, slept in, caught up on the housework, organised our tax and went for a drive down some 4WD tracks over at Mandorah. We didn't find what we were looking for, but we had a nice drive and we saw some cute wallaby's in the wild.
I have also been working on my 30 album...see below:

'30' Album Cover
I used an awesome chipboard album and are using my most favourite Making Memories papers and my Making Memories cool glitter paint - see the flourish - which I have finally figured out how to use.

'30' Album Cards Page

My huge freehand orange envelope for all my birthday card, (if only I could find them). And I love these cute Kaisercraft Flower Rhinestones.
I have also been working on my "A Year In the Life Of" Project, which consists of 12 monthly classes. I must admit that I have been pretty slack and haven't been finishing off each month as I go, but I have big plans to catch up at the Palms Scrapbooking weekend coming up soon.

I have been trawling the internet looking for awesome stuff to do on out New Zealand holiday in September. I am so pumped up to do the AJ Hackett Bunjy in Queenstown, but I guess we will see how I go on the day. You've got to check out the funky luggage tags we picked up from Paraphenalia the other weekend...

Cute...I love travel stuffs!

Well that's about all for now, I'll leave you with a super cute pic of Toastie, she has such an expression of guilt on her adorable little face! 'Til next time!

The Weekend....Over Already!

2008-07-20T20:58:00.005+09:30

Another weekend bites the dust, where do they go!

I spent Friday night with an awesome bunch girls at Stampcraft, for our monthly 'Year in the Life of...' class. I love catching up with these gals there is always a great time to be had and we are getting pretty excited about our weekend away coming up in 3 weeks. A whole weekend of uninterrupted scrappin' shenanigans.

On Saturday, we caught this movie at the Deckchair Cinema...

"The King of Kong" was hilarious! I was skeptical at first, Trav was seriously keen so I went along with it, after all I do love Donkey Kong. But it was piss ya pants funny, it goes to show, there is crazy competitiveness everywhere. One this if for sure Billy Mitchell is the laughing stock and a spineless wimp! Go Steve Wiebe - Geeks Unite LOL!

I also spent some time with eyes glued to the TV watching the end of Season One of Criminal Minds. I so love this show, it is awesome and twice a week and that is still not enough.

And...tomorrow night is the final of Big Brother for the Season (and maybe forever). Seriously bummed Alice got voted out tonight. I was hopin' she'd win! Travis also got voted out tonight too, thank goodness, what took Australia so long?!?!?!?

ANNND....we're going to New Zealand to see K & M and have a 2 whole week holiday! I am soooo excited, now I just need to figure out how on each I am going to swing it at work! Doesn't matter, I'll find a way 'cos I am going!

My Hot List!

2008-07-16T19:52:00.002+09:30

These things are rockin' my world right now:

"Perfect Match" - Jodi Picoult
Tried to read this book last year but really couldn't get into it. Now, I'm in the right frame of mind and can't seem to get it outta my head.

Criminal Minds
OMG - Garcia shot! Can't wait to see where they go from here, this show is unbelievable awesome!

Cafe 21 in the Smith Street Mall
A whole new facelift and OMG! Everyone already knew that had the most awesome coffee, but the other day I had the most amazing open grill sandwich when I snuck out for lunch with K & M. And they now have an amazing array of cupcakes, rocky road and cakes. I have found my Mecca!

Travel Blogs & Websites:
I'm living vicariously through other travelers and my feet are getting itchier as every day goes by.

Scrapbookin' Friday:
I feel like I haven't scrapped in weeks, when in reality it has been only 2 weeks at the most. We have the "A Year in the Life of" Box Class at Stamp Craft which will be loads of fun! And I'll be able to see if I can still scrap with these major acrylic nails!

The Weekend:
After havin' a full house last weekend for T's birthday last weekend, it will so awesome to just kick back and relax around the house and enjoy the solitude....

Ciao for now!

A Fresh Start - Again!!!

2008-07-15T23:24:00.005+09:30

Yeah, yeah, yeah!!
You have heard it all before and it has been close to 8 months since I last posted to my blog, so what is different this time?? Well, now I am motivated 30 year old wanting to live my life to the full and recording it all...

T turned 30 on Sunday. We had his Mum, Dad and K & M visiting for 4 days. It was a little squishy with 6 people back in our 2 bedroom unit (dejavu...thinking back to March when my fam were up for my b'day). But we all survived and no-one killed anyone else and I am sure T had a fantastic birthday.

It was great to see K & M again as we have not seen them since last December as they have been in New Zealand. They are lovin' the freedom and the traveling a new country, so much so, they may not go home. Once you get bitten by that travel bug there is no turning back. T & I are hoping to get over there soon for a holiday...can't wait and hope it happens.

OK, its late and I gotta have a shower and hit the sack. Will be back soon with more of an update....

Recent Stuff...

2007-11-11T21:36:00.000+09:30

I haven't really been scrapbooking very much of late. The knee makes it kind of difficult to sit still for long periods of time so usually the only scrapping I get is at Stampcraft classes.

Sunrise Cruise -- a layout from one of Karen's classes at the Shop (3 quick layouts).

Free Spirit -- a layout I completed at the recent Knuckey's lagoon retreat

Birthday Boy -- another layout completed at the Knuckey's Lagoon retreat.

A Yellow Waters Sunrise -- this is one that was done a scrapbooking class at Stampcraft using the new Cricket Expressions machine.

More layouts to come very soon....

A Knee-De Update

2007-11-10T18:39:00.000+09:30

Well it is finally happening....

I am going in for an operation next Friday...well Monday week at the latest. And the best news ever...it's gonna be key hole surgery, no open knee surgery for me. No Sireee!!! Woohoo!! Just 3 little holes around my knee for the quick and easy removal of my little tumourous/cartlidge friend.

So excitement!!!

I'm Baaack!

2007-10-24T20:13:00.000+09:30

I can't believe how long it has been since I posted on this blog.....over 5 months.

Well I am back now. Let's hope I can update more often.

The last 6 or so weeks could have been better. I am having some real dramas with my left knee. I have had stiffness in occasionally for as long as I can remember, but about 6 weeks ago i started to get some serious pain in it constantly. I went and saw a physio as I thought maybe it was some muscle damage. I had just started playing netball with some girls at work. I was so loving and it and SO disappointed when I couldn't play anymore.

3 visits to the physio before he threw his arms up as we weren't getting anywhere. He referred me to my GP for X-Rays which eventually showed a mass of some some description sitting under (?) my knee. My GP referred me to the orthopaedic surgeon at the hospital. She told me there would be a 1-2 month wait before I could get in.... Oh my God, severe pain and being unable to walk for at least 2 months. Hell no, so we decided I should try get an appointment with a private doctor and just pay for it. So I booked in with a private surgeon I remembered Belinda recommending to me.

So I rang my GP to get my referral changed and my GP told me she had to talking to Dr Matthew Sharland who was the head of Orthopaedics at the hospital and he was very interested in my case as the pain wasn't the result of a single trauma (ie: I hadn't knocked it or fallen on it). He looked at the X-rays and determined that there was definitely a mass on the image. He suspects that it is a piece of bone or perhaps a cyst/benign tumour (***Definitely, not cancer!!).

He is pretty sure that it is a piece of bone, which will be easy to remove during day surgery. A cyst/tumour would be much more difficult and I would have to wait for a bed to become available at the public hospital. Anyone who has ever seen Darwin hospital is right beside me in hoping that does not happen.

On Monday I went for an MRI scan -- yep that long tunnel --- which will hopefully show us what is the mass!! Bone or Cystie thing?? The was an experience I don't want to repeat any time soon. The radiographer has basically which squash my knee into this box --- my poor knee which I can not straighten without stabbing pain shooting through it --- so that it could be isolated for the scan. Let me just say that was the longest 40 minutes of my life! I had tears pouring out of my eyes for the first 20 or so minutes until I tried to concentrate on breathing through the pain. My knee kept twitching throughout the whole process and I was so scared that the radiographer was going to tell me that we would have to start again because you are NOT allowed to move during the scan.

I will get to find out "the go" tomorrow when I have an appointment with Doctor Sharland at the hospital. I am little bit scared and a little bit dying to get to the end of this whole saga. It is so exhausting and not being able to walk sucks, I have been on crutches on-and-off for about a week. Man do they kill your armpits!!!

Well wish me luck!

Scrapbooking Layouts - Mount Bundy

2007-05-07T13:35:00.000+09:30

Mount Bundy - April 27-29, 2007

(Click on the images to enlarge...if you want to)

22 women escape to a homestead 60 minutes south of Darwin, with nothing but copious amounts of food and alcohol and thousands of dollars worth of scrapbooking supplies to play with. Well, that's certainly my idea of awesome weekend away. Can't wait until the next one rolls around.

Below are some of the layouts I was working on....

Great Keppel Island - 2001 Mini Album:

Toastie Ribbon Layout:

Travis' Skanky Shoes Layout:

Roxy Layout:

Cover for the Great Keppel Island Mini Album:

Circle Journal Layout - "My Favourite Holiday Spot"

2007-04-23T20:35:00.000+09:30

I am currently participating in a circle journal with the girls from my local scrapbooking shop. Here are some piccies of my layout for "My Favourite Holiday Spot"--- Melbourne!!

Meet the newest member of the Wendt-Humm household!!

2006-09-16T17:33:00.000+09:30

Meet... "Toast"

We got Toast from the RSPCA last week and she is the best little kitten, so well behaved and even toilet trained...and isn't she just the cutest?!?!?