DAY TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY TWO

 Good afternoon, what a day we have had so far. As usual it’s up around 5.30am to 6 am as at 6:30 we go to the beach. It’s only four minutes away in the car and we sit and admire the view, have a bit of a stroll and I take a few photos,  here are the photos today, in the rain. 

Just before you get to the beach after you get out of your car,  you can hear the chatter and the laughter or what we call ‘banter’ from 15 to 20 people that are out in the sea swimming. This group of people (who I believe are all of an age where they have been long retired), are there every single day and you hear them before you see them. I think they have been doing it for years as they are all so comfortable with each other and telling each other stories, it’s one of those relationships where you believe they have all grown up together and stayed friends. Around 45 minutes after this we pass the café on our way back to the car and there are the same 15 to 20 people sat there sharing bread, tomatoes, olives, cheese and Cyprus coffees. Still lots of laughter still pulling legs sometimes we hear the happy birthday song. The best thing about it all is, the café isn’t open, it’s too early.  Everyone around the tables has put fresh bread, cheese, tomatoes etc. for each other to share.  It makes me smile every day and I feel extremely privileged to witness such friendships.  

Once we get back to our apartment we are met with one or two complex issues, one of the joys of being on a complex committee.  Today is was checking the levels of cleanliness of the swimming pool, sorting out the lack of water supply and helping the weekly cleaners.  All this is before breakfast.

That got done, breakfast ate and off to get my nails painted.  There is a lovely young lady that I have been seeing for a while now, she is a friend of the girls and looks after me so vey well.  There is something about having pretty nails that makes me feel lots better about myself.  Due to the medication I take, my nails need looking after a little bit more than others.  They don’t grow, they split and it’s so difficult to have them looking nice with all the ridges but Stavroulla brings them back to life.

As it was lunchtime hubby suggested a burger at a posh hotel, now who am I to turn that down?  Even though I hadn’t showered nor washed my hair, as we hadn’t got any water…. Oh well.  

Burger eaten and then off to see what the situation was at the apartment.  Another problem or two to sort out which is still ongoing.  But yeh, the water was back so at least we could shower.  It was time for weekly injection, washer on and a well earned cup of tea.  After face time chats with mum and dad and sister, it was then time to get ready to go out……now where did my day go?  

No time for crafting, painting nor reading but I am making precious memories and that is what life is about.

More about what is happening in my Stampin' Up! world tomorrow.  Thanks for having a read and I hope you have a wonderful evening.  Tracey x

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY FOUR - A new Stampin' Up! Year and all the latest news

 

We have started a brand new year in my Stampin' Up! world.  It runs from 1st October - 30th September and boy, what a way to start it off.

First of all, the Last Chance section has been updated with further reductions and more products added.  As usual, by clicking on the image below, a new page will open up with all the offers that are currently available.  I wouldn't wait too long though as things are selling out rather quickly.

Three new kits have been added to the store, Remembering Christmas Kit, Nutcracker Tag Kit and Calm & Bright Kit.  As usual, if you click on the images below, a new window will open up and you can find details of all the kits.

And there is more.  Starting today, you can purchase the Stampin' Up! Virtual Class.  The first one will be The Traditions of Christmas Craft Class

After you purchase the Craft Class, you’ll receive an email with a link to an exclusive Facebook page. The live class will stream on the Facebook page on 23 October at 9:00 p.m. Once you’re on the Facebook page, you can download the instructions for the projects you’ll make during the class.   More details can be found when clicking on the image above.

I have saved the best offer until last.  This is a new Starter Kit offer from Stampin’ Up! that is the best I have seen.

You have a choice of one of the following  two great value options either 

Option 1 Get £130 worth of products for £35 

or 

Option 2 Get £194 worth of products for £99 

You can customise your Starter Kit by adding any  Stampin’ Up! products, including items from the November Online Exclusive pre-order, the newly refreshed Last Chance section and new kits in to your basket and pay the option that you have chosen.  Plus, your Starter Kit will be shipped to you free of charge and will include current catalogues/brochures.

Here’s more of what you can enjoy during your first 6 months:

• Early access to the January–April 2026 Mini Catalogue (PDF available in November, plus pre-order privileges).
• Pre-order perks for the 2026–2027 Annual Catalogue
• Option to register for OnStage (March 12–14, 2026) — a fun and inspiring Stampin’ Up! event!
• Access to the Quick Start Programme, offering extra rewards for new team members.
• Discounts on your own orders and/or commissions on orders that are placed by others as well as Stampin' rewards on qualifying orders. 
• Join our wonderful community of crafters where you will find so much inspiration, lots of ideas and whole bunch of new friends, worldwide.

To learn more, click on the image below or get in touch.  You can always come along to the craft room on October 15th at around 6.30pm to find out more over a cuppa or join us at Insomnia Cafe, Shelton Lock on 17th October between 10.00am - 12 noon.  

Have you registered for World Card Making Day yet?

There is still time to register for the one hour virtual event that Stampin' Up' are holding to celebrate World Card Making Day.  Just click on the link below and if you can't watch at the time it is shown, at least you will be able to see it on a replay and Stampin' Up! will pop something in the post to you to say thank you for registering. 

https://mailchi.mp/stampinup/worldcardmakingday

Well, I think that is about all the news we can cope with for one day, so much to take in. 

If you need any help at all please, do get in touch.  Looking forward to spending more time sharing makes with you during the next Stampin' Up! year.  Tracey x

 

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY FOUR - a bits and pieces post

 

Good morning, another Sunday and today we are off out to a 'green area' in a village not too far away but somewhere we haven't been to before.  After putting my injection in yesterday, feeling loads better today and we have positive polly back.  The injection does have side effects for the day but at least I am always prepared for them and know that the benefits far outway the discomforts of one day.

It is Derby Dabblers this Friday night.  I can't believe it will be the last Friday of the month, already.  If you fancy coming along you will certainly receive a warm welcome.  We play a game of bingo half way through the night too.  Lots and lots of laughs and such a warm friendly bunch of folk.  If you want a bit more information, let me know.  There is a Derby Dabblers Facebook page where you can go and see what we get up to.

Stampin; Up! are introducing virtual Craft Classes.  The first one is available to watch on 23rd October and you can purchase it from the store in advance from 1st October using the Traditions of Christmas Suite of products.  You may purchase it after 23rd October also.  If you would like to know a little more please, do get in touch. 

Here is a favourite card of mine that I have made quite a few 

This is one of those that I made quite a few of, all slightly different but I didn't put a sentiment on them.  As soon as I have a birthday for a gent, out they come, the sentiment is stamped and I am sorted. 

Just 2 days left and we can order the Stampin' Up! 12 days of crafting Advent Calendar, I can't tell how excited I am about this.  The products in the Calendar are for the whole year, not festive (or not just festive) as I still dont know what they are. 

I have pencilled in 12 days of crafting events, in the Craft Room, to ensure that I use all the products up over the year.  Should you purchase your Advent Calendar from me, you will automatically receive an invite to join me.  

Now that I have seen this advent calendar, I have stumbled across so many more for make up, perfumes and everything else you can imagine, who knew that there were so many available, well I didn't.

Did you know that one of the things that I have been 'into' for the last few months are products from a company call Templespa?  Have you heard of them?  I hadn't but lots of my friends have.  I have been benefitting from Palm Balm hand cream that makes my hands all soft, smooth and feeling nice.  Nail and cuticle cream to improve my nails, Sole Balm for my feet, oh wow, you can't believe how all these little things are making a difference.  It's a little self indulgence but well worth it.  Do let me know if you would like to find out more about it.  I have a bit of a pamper session most months for folk to try things out, it's amazing what you learn.  I didn't know that some friends hate the smell of Lavender.  Another friend can't stand the smell of roses... we are all different aren't we?

Well, I had best go and get a wiggle on.  Thank you so much for having a read and I hope you have a smashing Sunday.  Tracey x

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND SIXTY TWO - All sorts of news, advent calendars, world card making day and a card with the Sunflower Embossing Folder

 

Good morning, I love waking up on Fridays, there is just something a little special about them.  It must be the thought of the weekend.

I have already had a bit of a wander.  I haven't been managing to walk too much lately but put my best foot forward to day with hubby.  

It was so very very windy and I managed a few steps.  Hopefully try again tomorrow and do a few more.  I am babysitting for half an hour later this afternoon, not quite sure where the half an hour will start or end but I am so happy to be asked to do it and really looking forward to spending time with Alexandros

A card that was made using the wonderful Sunflower 3D Embossing Folder. It is in Strawberry Slush and I love how it turned out.

I ran the piece of card through my embossing machine but I first spritzed water over the card so that the filers break down a little easier. It really does give it a lot more definition. I then got a white ink pad and gently rubbed it over all the raised areas. It works amazingly well on darker coloured card stock.

I know that the birthday girl has had this so I can now share it.

Well Stampin' Up! have given us lots of surprises this week, I am really not too sure where to begin.

Let's start with the Advent Calendar, yes you read it right.  There is a 12 day crafting  advent calendar. Each day of the calendar contains never before seen dies, paper, embellishments and even more items that you will not be able to find in any of the Stampin' Up! catalogues nor in the Online Store.  There is also an additional stamp set that comes with it.

The advent calendars are available to purchase on 23rd September, in just four days time and the expectation is that they will sell out very quickly as there is a limited amount of stock.   They do make the perfect gift for any family member or friend who is also a crafter.  I shall be up at the crack of dawn to purchase my own and if you would like me to add one to the basket for you too, please get in touch on Monday at the latest.  The cost is £94 for 12 doors to open, as well as an additional stamp set that co-ordinates with the products.  It does mean that if you are signed up to the Stampin' Rewards programme,  you get £9.40 rewards to use on a future order.  That makes each window (and a stamp set) £6.51 each. 

To ensure that I use all and everything in the calendar, I plan on holding an event for everyone that purchases the advent calendar once every two months to create wonderful projects on a Saturday morning for a couple of hours.  

The problem that I will have will be, do I wait for Christmas to open it or do I open it straight away... what would you do?

World Card Making Day is on 4th October.  Stampin' Up! are holding a free virtual event and you can register to attend at any time between now and 3rd October.

Registration is free.  You do need to register to receive a link to view the event.   As the event will be recorded, you may be able to watch the recorded programme once the event has finished.

To register and find out a little more, click on this link 

www.https://traceyrossos.stampinup.net 

Once you have registered, you will get an email confirmation.  If you are struggling, do let me know. 

Well, I do think that this is enough exciting news for one day, I dont want to overwhelm you.  Thank you so much for having a read and please, do feel free to leave a comment.

Have a fantastic Friday.  Tracey x

 

2025 SEPTEMBER - DECEMBER MINI BROCHURE

 

If you click on the image of the Mini Catalogue below, a new window will open up for you to have a browse through

If you would like a proper paper copy, please get in touch so that we can arrange for you to collect one

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY ONE

 

Good morning, up quite early, silly o'clock really so there will be plenty of Nanny naps later.   I have been having a few issues with the internet so a lot to catch up, which isn't a problem as I have the time to do it.   A few chores in the house to do this morning too so it's a bitting and bobbing kind of day.  This evening, as it is Wednesday, we shall go out for a bite to eat followed by bingo.  Of course there will hopefully be a few cuddles to catch throughout the day too.    

My poor legs, which have lymphoma are so swollen, puffy, achy and sore.  Bright red it places and very dry so I have to look after those in-between everything else, as us women do. 

I do have some very good news, in my Stampin' Up! world I have just been promoted.  WHOOP WHOOP.  I have a title of Silver Elite and that isn't possible without my crafting friends, I just have to organise a crafting event to celebrate, how exciting. It takes quite a bit of work to get to this stage and I am so very happy about it.  

THEY ARE BACK

The Stampin' Up! Water Painters (168253) have been out of stock for some time. It was difficult for the supplier to find the materials to make them, something we are all being affected by one way or another lately. However they are now back in stock and ready to purchase. I wanted to share this fantastic short video from Stampin’ Up! It demonstrates a couple of fun and creative ways to use the water painters, hope you enjoy it, (fingers crossed the video works).

Do you fancy gathering your watercolour card, water painters, a couple of ink pads and a stamp set or two for a little play session on the afternoon of 16th October in The Craft Room, Derby? Do get in touch if you would like to join me.

I was reading through my blog from 10 years ago and it was such a happy reminder of what was going off in my life at that time. I was searching for a photograph and I soon found it. I must try and be sure that I have all the photographs saved somewhere.

Thank you so much for having a read, I hope you have a wonderful day today. Tracey x

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND FORTY FOUR

 

White rabbits, white rabbits, white rabbits.  And so September arrives just as quickly as all the other months, but I don't know where they all went.  Time certainly passes by quickly, which isn't a complaint.  I remember my mum always saying that when you get older, the weeks go past a lot quicker and it seems it is true.

Well, what have I got to tell you, quite a lot really.  But let's start off with Stampin' Up!  Did you know that Stampin' Up! have a storage solution for the ink pads, refills and markers?  Did you also know that the markers are currently on the Last Chance list?   

If you click on the image below there should be a little reel with more details, keeping my fingers crossed it works.

So all the Stampin' Write markers are on the Last Chance List.  Should you click on the picture below there is a link that will open up a new page for you to see them all.  

We had our monthly Derby Dabblers Craft Club get together on Friday night and what a laugh, but then it always is.  There were lots of crafty folk knitting, card making, crocheting, reading magazines, scrapbooking etc. etc.  We played our usual game of bingo with Pam at the realm this time as Sheila couldn't make it.  The next one is on 26th September if you fancied coming along, here is what we got up to.  

Lots of crafting has been taking place but, not as much as I would have liked.  I had two weeks of Jury Service so that threw the spanner in the works for our usual get togethers.  I couldn't believe how tired I was at the end of each day.  Mum isn't the best although she does seem to have picked up, which is always good news.  My health is getting better bit by bit and as I have a few weeks of relaxation ahead of me, I am hoping to put it to good use in looking after me.

Here is a card I made for a lovely friend (well all my friends are lovely really) but this was a recent birthday and I loved making this card.  The sentiment is one of my favourite and sums up the special day just perfectly.  

Well I had best get on and start my day,  thank you so much for having a read x

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY THREE - Anniversary card and Stampin' Up! In Color Sale

 

Good morning.  I have just read that we are going to have a very hot day in my neck of the woods, going up to 28 degrees, oopss.  Hopefully I will be spending my day in an air conditioned building, keeping my fingers crossed.  

We managed to get an hour or so out in the garden yesterday.  As the weather has been so very warm a lot of our plants have already gone past their best.  The sweet peas are usually in flower until late August even up to September but this year they had finished late July.  We let them continue for an extra couple of weeks so that we could collect the seed pods for next year but, it was time to take them out.  We swapped them with geraniums.  Lets hope they add a splash of colour soon.  

 These were the sweet peas

 

The new geraniums, looks a lot nicer 

I created the following card using a very old stamp set, in fact it was one of the very first I purchased at a jumble sale.  I have used the images individually on a few inserts but I thought it was perfect for my hubbys anniversary card.  The sentiment was generated on the computer, it was quite easy for me to do.  He loved it and that is all that mattered.

 Did you know that Stampin' Up! have a sale on at the moment?  The majority of all the In Color products are discounted by 15%.  If you click on the image below a new page will open up and take you to the sale products.

 

 If you would like to place an order with me directly, do get in touch.  Collection will be from The Craft Room as soon as your goodies arrive.  If you want to pop in for a cuppa, a browse and ask as many questions as you like, let me know and we can arrange this.

Well I had best go and get myself ready for my day out.  Thank you so much for having a read, enjoy your start to the week.  Tracey x 

DAY TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY TWO - Kit night in The Craft Room

 

Good morning and what a lovely morning it is for a Sunday.  We have blue skies, warm weather and not a lot planned which is ideal for a Sunday.  I shall potter for the morning, hubby is cooking a Sunday roast for us to have late afternoon.  I do hope to get out into the garden for an hour this afternoon if it isnt too hot.  Changes are happening out there daily so we will try to stay on top of it (the royal we that is).

 

Lots happening with me but I am as healthy as I can be, I have Physiotherapy twice a month to help with the damage on my knee and I have been put forward for hydrotherapy as well as Tai Chi.  The monitoring of blood pressure is ongoing.  I have had to increase my blood pressure medication so that is a good thing as I do feel slightly better too.  The Lymphadema is getting easier but its when I go on holiday that its at its worse.  The next thing to help with that is diet....wish me luck.

 

The crafting is continuing and I dont think that will stop, why would it?  I love crafting, I am not always able to do it due to health issues but nobody would realise.  

 

Not so many events being organised as life has become increasingly busy with hospital appointments etc.  mum needing a little extra help, or dad does should I say.  Other committments and generally feeling as though I cant do it all so, I have cut back.  On the positive side, I am getting more 'early nights and late mornings', more fresh air and a little time to catch up with myself.   

 

On the social side, we do all like to get together and have a meet up.  This is what we got up to last Friday night.  It was Kit Night, Stampin' Up! sell the most adorable kits that are perfect for the well seasoned crafter as well as those that are new to crafting.  So as to make sure we get them made (there is a tendancy to hoard kits), I have a get together once a month where we meet up, drink (no alcoholic beverages I may add) and eat cake.  What could be better to kick start a weekend.  This is what we got up to last Friday.

 

 

Yes I know there are some photos of knitting but not everyone wants to make up kits every time.  It is such a wonderful social event and sometimes folk want a break from card making but still keep up with friends.  We laugh, we put the world to rights and we enjoy each others company.  I cant think of a better way to spend an evening. 

 

If you click on the image below, a new page will open up and you can have a browse at the kits that are on offer from Stampin' Up!  You can get them delivered direct to your home and, should you spend £20 or more, you can earn rewards toward a future order.  Do let me know if you would like a little more information as I am always happy to help. 

 

 Right off to start catching up.  Thank you so much for having a read, see you tomorrow.  Tracey x