Robyn's First Birthday

I believe that babies bring out the best in us. When it comes to milestones, it is indeed a pleasure to be able to share the joy of the occasion. Michael and I went for our grand-daughter's first birthday party and the occasion was beautifully themed. Minnie mouse made her presence felt and that reminds me, I must book a ticket for Disneyland before the child in me disappears.

The gorgeous angel was the centre of attention and had no lack of kisses and hugs and presents. I decided to make her a card and a cat - way before I went back to Malaysia because I knew that with the jet lag and all, my creative cells would go into slumber mode.

The materials for the card came from a variety of places: the background card stock which I've embossed is from Gorjuss (Scotland), the toppers are from Craftcuts (Philippines), flowers, heart doily and bling from Big (Malaysia).

The cat is made from Cath Kidston print and I still have some of the material left over to make into a shopping bag.

The proud parents

The handsome grand pas

One for the album

And not forgetting Minnie Mouse, created in 1928, but has never aged since.

Chinese New Year Cards

It has been a while since I went near the crafting room as I was away on holiday in Malaysia and Bali in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration. This year, Chinese New Year falls on 31st January till 14th February, a total of 15 days of fun and festivity. It is also the year of the wooden horse according to the Chinese Zodiac. The best part of this festival is the meeting of friends and family and of course lots of food.

Michael and I met up with my primary school friends and we had a great meal at Royale Chulan hotel in Kuala Lumpur. One of the highlights of the occasion was the tossing of the Chinese raw fish salad ('Yee Sang') for prosperity and for everything good. Other items associated with the new year celebration include mandarin oranges, the lion dance, drum performance and exotic food like waxed ducks and sausages.

Prior to the new year celebration, we observe the tradition of sending out cards. Last year we celebrated Chinese New Year in Ireland, so I made loads of cards as there were none available in Ireland. This year I made only two cards as there were lots of beautiful Chinese New Year cards sold in shops in Malaysia.