GO, FIGHT, WIN!

Heiva i Honolulu HERE I COME!!!

2010-03-15T09:20:00.001-07:00

The countdown begins...Thursday, March 17, 2010...2pm...doors open to one of the biggest Tahitian competitions in the world! I just celebrated my 30th birthday (which in Tahitian Dancing world is REALLY old). I decided I better compete now before I'm too old and the hips and knees don't want to do what I tell them to do. It's on my bucket list!

I haven't made my costume yet. The preliminary round is danced in a More ("grass") skirt. I did finish that! I haven't danced in grass in about 12 years so when I went into the garage and unrolled my neatly stored More, I found that it had yellowed and looked incredibly ugly!! So I took one out of my store and dyed it. I've never danced in a colored More before...always natural. So I picked RED! It's my favorite color and, with the help of Kaila (my daughter), decided red is fabulous! =) I made a headpiece, but...well, I'm not sure how I'm going to get it to Hawaii in one piece with the niau sticking out all over. Back to the drawing board.

Finals are danced in a printed pareu (wrap). I have two I'm deciding on...one is black and tan with tangerine orange tiare flowers. The other is yellow and brown with white Tiare flowers. I was going to use the same headpiece, but red doesn't match with either of these colors. So...looks like I'll be creating from now til Wednesday!!

I did finish two headpieces for a lady down south yesterday. I have one more pageant order to do and then I'm free to work on my own!

Auntie Helen's Celebration of Life...Our 1st Performance

2010-03-12T09:56:00.001-08:00

One week notice, no costumes and a dance troupe that wasn't supposed to perform until July! Well, what do you do? YOU SAY, "YES!"

Accomplishments this month so far...

1. I learned how to use a serger!

2. I learned to sew on a zipper...thanks to YouTube! Here's the link I used... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05J2KyqpvRE ...Karen is AWESOME! =)

3. Finished 4 White Sandy Beach dresses.

4. Finished 2 keiki Otea costumes.

5. Finished 15 sets of Tane legpieces and 15 neckpieces.

6. Finished Brandee's Otea costume.

7. Finished 3 Over the Rainbow costumes.

8. Danced/Instructed ... lost track of hours.

9. Finished my Solo headpiece.

Whew...I have an AMAZING life!! =)

Next stop...March 17th... Heiva i Honolulu 2010!

Why did I raise my hand??

2009-10-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

I was approached about a month ago by a few high schoolers asking for my help. They were starting a Polynesian Club at school and wanted to put something together to perform at games and stuff. Of course...I said yes. I'm actually really excited for them and I love seeing their progress. They're learning so fast.

Here's the part that went wrong...

I volunteered to make the hip hei (belts) for their costumes. Originally there were 10 dancers...not bad, not including the guys either...final count on Tuesday was 30!! OMG...what was I thinking? I've been working on these ALL weekend.

I've finished 10!! Oh well, that's what I get.

How to make a coconut bra...

2009-10-14T15:51:00.001-07:00

Okay, I know you all have been wondering how to do this!! So here it is!

1. Pick a coconut! You can normally buy these from the grocery store. Make sure it's big (or small) enough to cover your, well, body parts, once it's cut in half!

2. Lay the coconut on it's side. Measure and dot the points in the middle all the way around it. Draw a line to connect the dots. This will be the line you cut it in half with. (Don't cut it yet!)

3. At the top of the coconut, you will find a small knot where the branch was once stuck. You will want to drill 2 small holes on each side of the line you drew, about 1/2" from the middle on both sides.

4. Drain your coconut into a jar or something so you can use it later for dessert!! Yum!

5. On the opposite side (the bottom) of the coconut, drill the same size holes, both about 1.2" from the line.

6. Deside which side on the coconut looks better and use that as the top. Drill 2 more holes for your neck strap, again 1/2" on both sides of the line you drew.

7. I use an electic saw to cut my coconut in half. BE CAREFUL!! Slipping coconuts can cause accidents. DO NOT CUT YOUR HAND/FINGERS/TOES OFF! (I stick my coconut in between 4 wood boards.)

8. Using a large metal spoon, scrape out the coconut meat. (Put asside for later eating!)

9. I use a power sander to smooth the outer coconut. You can do it by hand with regular sand paper, but it takes longer.

10. Attach your strings. I use leather cord because it doesn't come untied easily and you don't want those things fallin' out while your performing!! Also, leather doesn't break like some other strings. Knot the leather cord on one side, feed it through the drilled hole and knot it on the opposite side.

11. Make sure to seal any cracks so the splitting won't continue. Natural cracks are normal...it's a coconut!

I have these available for sale on www.etsy.com search sellers: hulamelani or just email me!

Mel =)

Young, dumb and outta control

2009-10-07T08:47:00.001-07:00

Sometimes we do things when we're young that aren't fully thought out and turn out...well, bad. Like going to Tahiti, getting tatooed by a local who doesn't speak English while laying on the floor in a hut! He freehanded this...

I had my cousin fix it after 10yrs of people asking me, "What is that? A face? A clown? A bird?"

A really cool chair...

2009-08-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

Why is it that I can never remember to take a picture of the projects I work on BEFORE I work on them?? Oh well...I gave this really cool chair a facelift this morning. It was ugly!! Now, it's pretty!

Mel =)

Cute, cute, cute!!

2009-08-29T22:59:00.001-07:00

Two of my favorite people are moving to Georgia...Yeah...why someone would want to move from California to Georgia is beyond me, but whatever. I just found out they're leaving Tuesday...I whipped them up a going away present. It's mostly for their two kids who will be stuck in the car for 5 days. It came out super cute. I was really proud because I normally am not too good at altering stuff! Check it out!

Such a cute stamp!!

2009-08-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

I got this on ebay...not sure if it's by any particular company, but I LOVE IT!!! My Cardio Hula class at the gym starts in 10 days!! I'm so excited!!

Mel =)

I'm gettin' better at this scrapbooking thing!

2009-08-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

I just finished the Northern California Paper Chase...and yes, I went to all 20 stores!! I finished my "progressive scrapbook". Now I have so much stuff to play with, I don't know what to do with myself! Have you ever sat in front of your pile of new stuff you bought and realize none of it matches and you don't have any pictures anyways!? hehehe...I can't be the only one!

Here's a page I created for our Philippines trip. Yes, it was a few years back, but it was a blast!! That was one of my favorites!

2009-06-01T14:29:00.000-07:00

Some more cards for you all to copy!! I mean..."borrow"! hehehe Happy Monday!

Mel =)

Hello Ladies!

2009-05-31T10:06:00.000-07:00

HAPPY SUNDAY!!! I know...I know...it's like "Return of the Living Dead"!! It has been a long time. I was sad to hear the Bellaholics Blog was disbanned. Does anyone know if another one was started? I had a few REALLY cool sistahs on that site that I, unfortunately, lost contact with.

Anyways, to make up for my missing in action moment, I posted a few cards. I have some projects on the way too. Enjoy!!

Mel =)

Happy Halloween!!

2008-11-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

The night started out kinda slow. It seemed like it took forever for the kids to get dressed up. (With the exception of Little Sunshine who instisted on wearing her princess dress to school!)

Kaila couldn't find the top to her pirate costume so we had to make due with another shirt. She looked cute anyways.

We went to Mom's first and took the kids around my old neighborhood with my nephews. Then we went to Dad's house. There were more trick-or-treaters there! It started raining...boo! It wasn't as cold as I remember last Halloween being.

Then kids stayed at my sister's house and Dale and I went to a lounge in Sacramento. It was the first time there. $1500 in prizes for costumes and free admission until 11pm! Sounds like my kinda party! My friend Melanie (yes, her name is Melanie too!) came. She drinks too much...but who am I to judge!? =P We met some really cool people there and watched an angry drunk try to pick fights with anyone who had a costume resembling the military. She got kicked out...FAST! I loved the atmosphere. It wasn't a bunch of drunken messes like at some of the other Sacramento places. We had so much fun!!

Here's me in my "gold digger" costume with Mel "The Sailor".

Dale didn't have a costume, but he still looked hot! =) he ws going to be a Sugar Daddy candy, but we couldn't find the jacket. The costume stores only had the pants and the hat.

I'm so excited...Thanksgiving is next and that's my FAVORITE holiday!! woo-hoo!

Mel =)

Check this out!

2008-10-30T20:59:00.000-07:00

I found this little project on SCS. It's a file folder folded into a Xmas planner! The forms are on this really neat site. http://organizedchristmas.com/printable/christmas-pocket-planner

I used silver cord to make it more like a book. It doesn't open all the way like the one on SCS. Here's some directions for anyone who would like to attempt to make one! Good luck!

1. Take a regular file folder, open it up. Hold it in front of you "book-like". Score it 8" from the top so your line will cross the fold. This will create your pocket.

2. Next, score parallel to the center fold 4 1/2" from the middle on both sides. The tab sections (the front and the back) will be more narrow than the inner sections.

3. Fold it like an accordion.

4. Decorate your folder doo-dad, inside and out. I direct inked my edges to take some of the bright folder look away from the project. You will need 2 decorated papers and 2 solid papers for the look I did. (12x12 sheets)

5. Print the calendar thingies and stick them on the plain card stock to give them some class. I used the gift ideas, gift list and card list templates.

I'm not the best when it comes to directions. Just have fun!! I gave you the measurements...the rest is up to you!! =)

Life's been a little hectic lately. Sorry I've been a little MIA! My craft table is so sad. I placed a Bella order yesterday hoping to spark that creative bug again! Thanks Debby for thinking of me! Your email came at a great time!! Thank you! =) This one's for you!

Mel =)

Blog candy without any effort!!

2008-10-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

I like these kind of blog candies!! No work, just a comment...hmm...maybe I should do these kind instead of the games! Check it out...it's a good one too!

http://papercraftsbyrach.blogspot.com/

Thank you, Mae!

2008-10-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

My Bella sistah sent me the coolest image holder yesterday! ...so...you know what that means right?! Yep, I had to attempt to make one too! I'll get a hold of things eventually. It was a little time consuming at first, but it got easier with each mistake! hehe...I filled it with actual cards that I tried to match with the front of the book. Each card has a different "Go, fight, win" message...such as "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams" by Eleanor Roosevelt and "Our greatest glory is not in never failing...but rising up every time we fall." by Ralph Waldo Emerson. The sayings are from CTMH.

I finished another 6pk of cards. You can't see it from the picture, but I embossed in baby blue around the white piece the image is on.

I found these checkbook holder/calendar holders at my favorite store. There were 5 for $4.50. Great for quick gifts and best of all, you can change the image inside whenever you want!!

I made some gift tags too and needed somewhere to stick em. This tin worked out perfect. It used to be filled with paperclips. It has a magnet on the back so it could stick on the refrigerator or something. Why someone would need paperclips on the fridge beats me, but...to each their own!! =)

I'm almost done with the craft fair stuff. I never know how much of what to bring. I figured if I made too much stuff, I could always give it away or use it! I'll post the covered picture frames and the totes I made later! Happy Thursday!

Mel =)

Halloween cards

2008-10-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

Well, as usual, there isn't anyone in particular these were made for. I was thinking of sending the pink one to my neice in San Francisco. I think she'd like it. I actually sat down to make a Happy B-day card for my nephew. He turned 7 today. I ended up with no B-day card, but these instead...Go Mel!!

Mel =)

I'm baaaacccckkk!! =)

2008-10-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't had much time for me lately. Today was a stay in all day (except to drop off the girls at school), brush my teeth (but that's about it), remain in my sweats and make stuff ALL DAY!! =) Woo-hoo!

Here's some stuff that came out of today! Enjoy!

I worked on the craft show projects. Not all of them are complete, but I have a short attention span and get REALLY bored REALLY fast! So I did like 3 of these, 5 of these, 1 of this...know what I mean!? I found these CUTIES on SCS. The tag says, "Thanks for making me a Smartie". It's attached to a jar filled with Smartie candies! Too cute.

I found the orange pencil holders on SCS as well. Inside is a post it note pad. The purple one is a pencil holder with an eraser on the front.

These skeletons are straws I found at the Dollar Tree store. There are 5 in a pack. I just opened the pack and re-packed them in a clear envelope with the sticky tab cut off. I ties a ribbon around it.

6 pack of cards

Happy day!

Mel =)

And the winner is...

2008-10-12T21:18:00.000-07:00

In honor of my 1,000 hits, my blog candy was a $10 gift certificate for your favorite and mine...Stamping Bella!! I had so many great ideas come in, but the one chosen by my craft fair friend, Margie, was CHARLENE!!!! Please visit her blog. http://myroomtocreate.blogspot.com She gives simple instructions for her gift card envelope as well as pictures and an example of how much she sold them for! Thank you, thank you!! 2,000 hits is fast approaching! Good luck to you all next time and thank you so much for playing!

Mel =)

Leanne tagged me with a twist! =)

2008-10-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged with a twist! This one was a little easier to do! =) Thanks Leanne for thinkin' of me!

Here's how it works...
1. Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Answer the five sets of five (these are easy)
3. Tag 5 people in the last section by leaving their names as well as links to their blog.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Here are the 5 sets of five...

Things you love...
1. CHOCOLATE...anything chocolate!
2. HAPPY people!
3. sharing knowledge
4. BIG dogs!
5. shopping

Things you don't love...
1. smelly people
2. coffee
3. wasting time
4. excuses
5. cleaning my house...boo!

Songs on your iPod/Playlist
1. Developing the Leaders Around You- John Maxwell
2. When I Grow Up - Pussycat Dolls
3. So What - Pink
4. This Is My Now- Jordin Sparks
5. Girls Just Want To Have Fun - oh yes, the one and only, Cyndi Lauper!

Favorite Foods/Drinks
1. CHOCOLATE!
2. Arizona Green Tea
3. Jello Cheese Cake
4. Chocolate Chip Cookies
5. PIZZA!

People you are tagging...
1. Mae
2. Debbie
3. Amy
4. Eulanda
5. Shannon

Have fun gals!! =)

Some "manly" cards

2008-10-09T14:18:00.000-07:00

So I have this lady who pays me $2 for my birthday and thank you cards. She is SUPER sweet. She works with my mom. I have tried to teach her how to make cards and she just doesn't want to do it. (Sound familiar?) What ever cards I don't use myself, I give to Mom, she brings them to work and sells them to this lady. Anyways, she asked me if I could make more "manly" card as she often has guys in the office she would like to give cards to and my usuals are really flowery and glittery and stuff. So here are a few I came up with! Well, I don't know if I would give the cougar print "Make a Wish" card to a guy at work though!! hehe...Enjoy!

Mel =)

Cute stampset for Blog candy

2008-10-08T22:32:00.001-07:00

Visit http://javablustamper.blogspot.com/! Jacquie is giving away a SUPER cute stamp set for her 5,000 blog candy giveaway! Either go there to enter or go see a picture of her little girl! She is ADORABLE!! If that smile doesn't make you smile back...hmmph...I don't know what would! =) Happy day!

Mel =)

My little scrapbook corner!

2008-10-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what everyone else's craft space look like?! I do. Well...if you don't, here's mine anyways! hehehe...I'm not done with it (who ever is, right!?), but it's functional...and, yes, it is supposed to be a formal dining room. HEY! I eat in here sometimes! =)

I think the best part of it was the cost. Yes, the cost. I saved a lot of money by thrift store and bargain hunting. I found the blue thingy with my paper and catalogs on top for $10 at the thrift store. I was going to paint it, but I actually liked how it looked once I put it to work. The cabinet and shelves are stackables you can find at Lowe's. I made two little work stations for Sunshine and Kaila by placing two white scrap pieces I found at IKEA in their "as-is" section over the stackables. I found the random baskets and boxes at the thrift store too! I keep misc. rubber stamps, glitter, some acrylics and my embossing stuff in them. Baskets are used for ribbon pieces, scraps, cards that need their pictures taken, envelopes and sticky stuff (adhesives and pop up dots). The girls have their own sets of stuff in the blue and brown shelf thingy so they don't "disturb" my work space. It keeps the peace! =) Okay, so I'm a Type A and T. THINGS HAVE THEIR PLACE! hehe...I'm working on that part of me!

I posted these pictures for the awesome blog candy Amy's giving away! You can find it at http://www.thescrapaddict.blogspot.com/!

Mel =)

I am a bindin' fool!

2008-10-05T19:13:00.001-07:00

I rec'd my Bind It All machine yesterday!!! Ahh...I couldn't work on anything when I got it because I had stuff to do, but told myself that if I got it done yesterday, I would reward myself with crafting time today. Well, I made 12 books, I altered a can and made a few cards. It is really as easy as it looked, but you have to read the book first. Oh...and don't use anything you really want for your first few times. Just in case it doesn't work out! =) I will probably alter the fronts a little more...but as for now, I just wanted to get the hang of the measure, cut, punch, bind! Practice makes perfect, right!? I used the chipboard mat stacks from DCWV. They're 4.5 x 6.5", already textured and colored so all I did was slap a patterned paper on the front! Super easy!

These lil' books were made with the coasters I lifted from Outback! I think you can get the same ones at Chili's too!! Covered them with patterned paper and tada!!

These are 6.5 x 6.5" chipboard I bought from ebay. Remember I was making a calendar (that still isn't finished!). It's the same chipboard. It was already punched with three holes for binder rings so I just covered it and punched the opposite side.

Same 6.5 x 6.5", but not Xmas themed! I can't believe I'm thinking about Xmas! Ahh! Help me...someone!!

I'm not the best altered artist, but I think this can came out simple and cute. I think it needs a little glitter! What do you think!?

I can't wait for the Dreamkutz to arrive. It's supposed to be here Thursday...boo. I can't even tell you how much time I would have saved not having to measure and cut!

STAMPIN BELLA GIFT CERTIFICATE!!

2008-10-04T12:11:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I'm running a little behind schedule, but I finally got an idea for a blog candy. So, first off, THANK YOU BELLAS for continuing to support the habit! =) You have NO IDEA how important you all have become to my daily life. It's like free therapy! =) hehehe

I was invited by a good friend of mine to participate in a few craft fairs coming up this holiday season. (Isn't it funny how the holidays just seem to get longer and longer each year!? Hmmph!) Anyways...I need some ideas for projects. I have almost any "tool" you can have so the sky is the limit on what I'm lookin' for! What sells the best?! If you have a blog, please post your entry on your site and let me know where to find it. If you don't have one, email me your entry and I will post it on my blog so everyone can enjoy it! (And, of course, I will give you ALL the credit!!) I'm a pretty visual person, so can you please post pictures when possible and a brief description of your project! I will have my craft fair partner decide the winner.

Contest ends OCTOBER 10, 2008 AT MIDNIGHT so don't procrastinate!!

Oh yeah...since we are celebrating 1,000 hits...the winner will receive a gift certificate to STAMPING BELLA for 1,000...pennies! Yep, $10 to spend on ANYTHING you want. I figured my blog candies will increase in value as the number of hits increases! I can't wait to hit 1,000,000 hits! Woo-hoo...the damage that can be done with that bad boy! =)

Good luck and have fun!!

Mel =)

12 weeks of Xmas ideas

2008-10-04T11:50:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd help spread the word. I think this is an AWESOME idea!! Thanks to our Sistah, Heather, we've got 3 months worth of Xmas project ideas!! I can't wait to see the rest. This week's is SO cute!! For complete details, visit her at...

http://iceescape.blogspot.com/

Mel =)

I WON!!! I WON!!!

2008-10-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

Remember when I entered this card at my favorite store? I got a call from the owner and she said I won!!! Ahhh...a $25 gift certificate to use in the store! Woo-hoo... go Mel, go Mel!! Yippee! Thanks for sharing that moment with me!!

Mel =)

Zutter Bind It All machine

2008-10-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

So, besides the two Zutter Bind It All machines being different colors, there were a few goodies in the pink on that the blue one didn't have. One being that it's pink! The cutting chamber can punch thicker stuff than the blue one. Did I mention it's pink!? =) Anyways...I ordered the tote too. In case I get invited to a crop or something and need to take it with me! Hahaha...I've never gone to a crop. I'm not even totally sure what you do at one! =) And if I did go, I'm not sure if I'd want to lug all this stuff around. I think I'd probably just invite people to my house!

Here's the link to where I found it.

http://www.bluemoonscrapbooking.com/CategoryProductList.jsp?cat=Shop%3AManufacturers:Bind-It-All

Free shipping for orders over $50 and the machine was only $69.99. Ebay didn't even have any cheaper than that and I was getting tired of bidding and losing! =) AHHH!

The tote was $30.

I also bought a Dreamkuts machine...the pink one...accessories must match. I'm weird like that. The pink matches my BigShot! =) Hehe...so cute. I found it on ebay. Buy now for $78.99 plus $6 for SH. The sellers name is rumrunner_1. My favorite store wanted $110 for it...crazy ladies!

Hope this helps another Bella not have to search for bargains! Happy day!

Mel =)

Busy, busy bee!

2008-09-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Sunshine Esguerra! She is such a crazy lady! And she's like this ALL the time! =)

I sure wish I knew some people having babies...hmmph.

This was a card I whipped together for a wedding Dale and I went to Saturday. I bought the ring stamp for $4 at my favorite stamp store...not knowing anyone getting married. I just liked the stamp. I love my scallop punch from SU! It rocks! Am I the only one who does silly things like this?

I ended up decorating the wrapping paper with the same stamp. Super cute! I got them a scrapbook kit for their wedding and honeymoon pictures. Dale grew up with the groom. He was kind of like a big brother to him. We didn't know the bride other than she is a minister's daughter...so I didn't think my taste in lingerie would have been appropriate for a gift. This seemed safe. =)

Mel =)

More NYC...sorry it took so long!

2008-09-29T17:23:00.000-07:00

We went to church! St.Patrick's Cathedral was the most beautiful place I've ever seen! The carvings, the windows, the high vaulted ceilings...oh, and the organ! It was upstairs. The pipes were so HUGE!! It was a very powerful place. If you remember, when I was tagged, one of my "facts" was that my hubby and I had relegious differences in the first few years of our relationship. Not a big deal to us...we both believe in God. We believed in being good people. His parents, being high rank in their church, expected me to convert to their religion. I couldn't lie to them. I went to their church several times, bible studies and conventions...I didn't believe like they believed. So, at 4yrs in, Dale and I were faced with an ultimatum. Step out together, or go our seperate ways. So, for him to plan this vacation with this part in it was HUGE! It was something he knew I would enjoy. It was a selfless act. He's awesome!

Mel =)

My 2nd favorite scrapbook store!

2008-09-29T16:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks to an awesome Bella sista, I discovered a store called Green Tangerine in Rocklin, CA. (Sorry Sistah, I don't remember who told me about it.) It is this HUGE scrapbook heaven with tons of "stuff"! My goodness! It took me about an hour and a half to get there, but it was worth the drive. I spent over 3hrs. shopping. It's very modern and clean. Tons of stamps and embellishments...and check this out...I happened to visit on one of their weekend garage sales! Yes, garage sales...fellow scrappers bring the stuff they don't use anymore and sell it super cheap! Ahh...I bought four punches for Sunshine's preschool class for $1! There were tons of idea books and magazines for $1. They had scrapbook kits, stamp sets, cutters...pretty much anything you can think of. I didn't find my Zutter Bind It All though...boo. They sold out. I found a site that featured them...http://kcra.cityvoter.com/green-tangerines-scrapbook-superstore/biz/77161. Make sure if you're in the Sacramento area, you check it out!

There was also a store about 5min away that wasn't worth the drive. Not sure about the actual items in the store, but the service wasn't that great! The moment I walked in, the lady told me they were closing in half an hour. No "hi"..."the baskets are there"...then bash me with "We're closing soon."...nothin! She must not have known how much damage I could do in half an hour. The store was little anyways. It wouldn't have taken that long to go through it...and the prices seemed a little high for what they were offering. She just ruined the thrill...know what I mean!?

Mel =)

And the winner is...

2008-09-27T00:35:00.000-07:00

I let Kaila pick the number before we started so I couldn't be bias and pick my favorites or change my answer partially through the contest! =) She picked 234,559!! So...the guesser who came closest is...Ms. Katie Shawger aka. Paper Makeup!! Woo-hoo!! Looks like I will have to go shopping for another blog candy soon as I now have almost 800 hits! Go, fight, win!

Katie, please email me privately your address! (melanie.esguerra@sbcglobal.net) I will pop this in the mail as soon as I get it!! Congrats!

Mel =)

The Good 'Ol Days

2008-09-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we get older...well, all the time we get older, but sometimes we forget the things that make us truly happy. Know what I mean?

I have been a Polynesian dancer since I was 5yrs old. My grandma (as seen in the picture) was born and raised in Hawaii. She made costumes for the largest dance troupe in this area, Lehuanani. They used to practice in my great grandma's backyard because it was the only yard large enough to fit them. I guess I was just born into it.

Not being the most patient and graceful dancer...well, person...I felt most comfortable Tahitian dancing. I joined my first halau (dance troupe) in 1994. We were a new group to the area, Te Poe O Patitifa, or Pearl of the Pacific. There were 14 of us including drummers. Our Kumu, or instructor, was a former dancer, Ioani Burns, or Uncle Joel. He was a retired dancer that was a judge at the largest competitions here in the States and in Tahiti. He was my second dad.

I competed with the group and we were booked for 3-5 shows every weekend. Hot, cold, raining...it didn't matter. We were a hot party item. Everyone knew who we were and wanted to be with us. In 1998, we competed in San Jose, CA with over 100 dancers and about 15 drummers. We got to travel to Tahiti in 1999 as ambassadors to learn from Le Grande Ballet and O Tahiti E...two of the most prestigious halaus. It was awesome!

However, when we returned, the halau changed. It started to take form of a business. The fun was gone and it was now all about the money. I retired for the first time. I returned in 2001, but left shortly after. It just wasn't the same. Maybe because I wasn't the same. Maybe because my sisters had grown up, gone off to college and another generation was there....I don't know...but it was different. Uncle Joel had moved back to Tahiti and a new instructor had taken over...literally.

I started my own troupe, Haviti Tiare, in 2004 after Sunshine was born. I decided to teach 5 year olds and under students. We practiced in the backyard in the summer and in the garage in the winter. It was really fun.

I went back to Te Poe O Patitifa in 2006 and competed one last time...with Kaila. I was so proud. I wasn't going to dance. I was going to pass the thrill to her. It was her time. She asked me to compete with her. So, 7 of the original dancers including me, got back out there and took some trophies home!! Uncle Joel was there. I dedicated my solo to him. He walked out half way through it. When I asked him why, he said, "Melani, I already know how you dance. I am very proud." I think it hurt him to see the 7 of us again. We were like his children. (And, no, I didn't spell my name wrong. That's how he insisted on saying it! Accent on the "a".)

I miss it. I miss the family spirit. I miss practice. I miss the thrill. One day, I will return...again. =)

Mel =)

2008-09-25T21:16:00.000-07:00

This is my card I submitted at my favorite Stamp store in Elk Grove, CA. The theme was buttons. Hopefully I win. You get a $25 gift card to use at their store and I already know what I want! =) It was so crazy...after I went there the first time, I rec'd a handmade card from one of the girls that was working that day to personally thank me for coming in and inside of it was a package of bling. So sweet. I know they probably make it a habit of doing that as customer satisfaction, but, hey...I like it! It's a great idea! Got me to come back! =) I left the card for the lady, Marilea, that sent me the card. She's a sweetheart! Enjoy!

Mel =)

Thank you Auntie Mae!

2008-09-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd let you know I have the best Bella Sistah! She sends me the most thoughtful gifts...and...today...as I was literally ripping my package open because I could smell something good and hear something rattling...my daughters sat eagerly watching. They kept trying to reach their little hands inside. I told them it was for me and I had to read the card first! I received her very first Bella card! Woo-hoo! Super cute. On the card it said there were two goody bags for the girls. Ahh...they were so excited! Thank you Aunt Mae!!

The smell were Cinnamon Bun tea lights!! Good thing because I was running low! The rattling were brads...in one of my favorite colors I might add! Thank you! Thank you!

Mel =)

Debbie tagged lil 'ol me! =) Thanks Deb!

2008-09-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

RULES

1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

So...unlike Debbie, I am not shy at all! (...Can that be my first fact? Hmm.)

1. I make a killer Lasagna! (Is that how you spell that?)

2. When I was a kid, my life long goal was to be a nun.

3. I do not watch TV. (I'll rent a movie now and then, but refuse to watch TV.)

4. I am Chinese, Filipino, Mexican, Native American and Portuguese...4th generation American. My hubby says being at family events is like being at the United Nations!

5. I dropped out of college 5 times. (Couldn't figure out what I wanted to do with my life and college wasn't paying for diapers!)

6. I was a secret from my hubby's parents, due to religious background differences, for the first 4yrs of our relationship.

7. I have been a Polynesian Dancer since I was 5. I travelled to Tahiti as an ambassador when I was 19. I taught dancers from age 2-65! Super fun!

Go, fight, win!! That's me in a nutshell!

I TAG...
Mae- sorry, I know you've been tagged already, but I want more!! =) hehe
Theresa
Cheri
Danyel
I wish I knew more Bellas...that haven't been tagged of course! Hey, can I tag-back Debby!? Just kidding!

Mel =)

MY VERY OWN "THANK YOU" BLOG CANDY!

2008-09-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

I am SUPER excited! I only started this blog about a month ago and I already have over 500 hits! Sweet! I want to personally thank you all for the boosts of confidence you each give me with your comments. It's been a weird time for me...called "life", I guess...and the Bellas have welcomed me with open arms. I wish I had enough money to send everyone a blog candy...but I don't...boo. I have a great blog candy to give away. I hope you will all participate!

I don't know how to do any sketches...so we'll keep it simple! First, you must post my blog as a link on yours so more people can participate! Next, I have a number in my head...what a scary place...hehehe...between 1-1,000,000. (I like the number 1,000,000!) The guessing game will begin now and will end September 26th at 12 midnight. Whoever get's the closest will win! That simple. Please scan through the numbers already posted to make sure someone else didn't already pick your number! Clear as mud?? Good!

Mel =)

Bella cards!

2008-09-21T15:23:00.000-07:00

A good excuse not to clean the house! =)

New York continued!

2008-09-21T15:05:00.000-07:00

This was the best BBQ joint I've ever been to! Yummy!

The Natural History Museum- Kaila really enjoyed this place. She either learned about the stuff here last year or is currently studying it in 6th grade. I wish I could post all the pics, but these are the ones that are right side up.

(I'm not sure who these people are in the picture of my favorite dinosaur.)

Okay, so I was going to post according to the day, but I have Dori syndrom and can't remember stuff too well short-term. (Kinda scary...good thing I have my Long Term Care in place!) I figured I can just group a bunch of pics of stuff we saw instead! Enjoy!

I started the scrapbook today. FYI...I haven't completed a scrapbook to this day, but this time will be different...wink, wink...nod, nod! hehe

Mel =)

New Blog candy FOUND

2008-09-21T09:27:00.001-07:00

VISIT www.stardustgemsandribbon.wordpress.com for this blog candy! I love pink...and glitteries...and the super cute stamp! Good luck!

Mel =)

Day 1...The Tourists!

2008-09-19T23:55:00.000-07:00

The first day we arrived was September 11th. We got there at 8:30am. I calculated, in California time of course, it would take us about 30 minutes to get out of the plane and an hour to get our bags and get to the taxi. I figured we would be at the hostel at 11am. Well, this was the first time I concluded "I was not in Kansas anymore Toto." We got to the hostel at 10am including the taxi "detour" around Central Park. Dale figured it should have been about a $25 cab fare...turned out to be about $45. Hmmph...lesson learned. Everything seemed to be on fast forward!

We got to the hostel. It had bright pink walls! Interesting. Just so you know...we had our own room, we just had to share a bathroom. It was a different kind of experience compared to the 4 and 5 star resorts we've stayed at. I can't remember why we chose to stay there, but, it was worth the experience. Our room was white with one light blue wall. We had a Mexican woman next door who cooked pork chops at 11pm and flushed the oil down the toilet. She played Mexican music in the early, early morning! I brought earplugs, thank God! =)

We started off on a bus tour. It was about 3 hours long and took us uptown, midtown and downtown. The tour guide wasn't the best, but we did still learn some cool stuff. Sunshine fell asleep half way through. The second tour we took was on a ferry. We got to see the Statue of Liberty and all the city from the water view. It was really neat! Kaila loves the Statue. She was really excited as you can see in the picture.

The third...yes, I said third...tour we went on for the day was a night tour. (I'm not sure the thought process that went through Dale's head when he planned 6 hours of tours in one day, but hey...we're in New York!) The tour guide sounded like Ryan Seacrest from American Idol! He was SUPER great! Lots of trivia and history. It was amazing to see the night life...a true city that never sleeps. Time square was amazing! The bridges lit up were magnificent. And the lights in place of the Twin Towers were overwhelming. We got a great picture. The lights were actually reflecting off the clouds. So pretty! Sunshine, Kaila and I fell asleep in the last tour bus. How sad. I was pooped! We went across the bridge into Brooklyn for pictures. The girls were out for the night.

Hope you like to pics. More tomorrow!!

Mel =)

New York, New York!

2008-09-18T22:27:00.000-07:00

So we're back! And was that a trip of a lifetime or what! Whew...I thought California was fast-paced!! I'll start from the beginning and I'll probably have to complete it in a few days worth of blogs since there were 6 days of non-stop activity and chaos.

So, for those of you who didn't know, my oldest daughter turned 11 on September 4th and she's always had this amazing fascination with big cities...especially New York. There's no real explanation for this obsession, she's had it since I can remember.

In order for you to get the whole story, I have to back up a little and start with how we ended up there. It started off with me making travel arrangements for a convention for our business last year. I, by the way, don't plan ANY of the travel stuff because it seems to go weird each time. Dale does it. This was no exception. I planned our flight returning a day too early. Boo...the airline said I could change the tickets, but it would cost $100 each and I wouldn't get the money back, rather, just a credit I had to use within a year. So February came and I remembered I had to plan our next trip to use the credit before we lost it and there wasn't any place on that list for that airline I wanted to go. Then we saw New York. Dale had promised Kaila we would take her there one day and she is constantly reminding him of this promise. We decided to make it her birthday gift and we would keep it a surprise. (Excerpt: I am the worst at keeping surprises!)

The week before departure I thought I blew our cover. I was on the phone and I forgot she was in the back seat. I was telling a teammate not to schedule an appointment on a certain day because I was going to be in New York...whoops. So, not knowing if she had heard me, I decided to come up with a story...just in case. I told her she might get really mad at me, but that I didn't want to tell her last minute. I told her I might have to go on a business trip to a state she really wanted to see. She said, "YOU'RE GOING TO NEW YORK?!!???!" I said yes. She asked me to bring her. I told her I couldn't because I would be working and she has school. She believed me!! Was totally mad at me, but believed me. Whew!

So, last Wednesday, my sister, who lives in San Fransisco, where we'd be conveniently flying out of, called and asked to spend some time with Kaila since she missed her birthday. Perfect cover up! I told Kaila we would be going to see Yaya since she had a minimum day and arranged for my sister to drop us off at the airport. Kaila still had no idea! =)

We got to SF, went to the Piers, ate crab and shrimp and met up with my sister, Tanya. At 7:30, Tanya was bringing us to the airport. We got out. We had packed in one giant suitcase and one carry on. Kaila was sitting in the backseat. I told her to get out. She got out and gave me a farewell hug thinking I was leaving. Hehehe...sneaky, sneaky! I told her to get her sweater. She asked why. I told her we were all going. She stood there staring at me...very confused. So I said it again. She said, I thought you said you were going. I told her we were taking her to NY. She started hyperventilating!! =P I had to calm her down or I was afraid she was going to pass out! Ahh...it was just the response I was looking for! She was so excited. We don't have pictures of that moment...boo.

Tomorrow...day 1! The Tourists.

Mel =)

A real Super bella!

2008-09-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all the Sistahs who answered my cry! And thanks to the Sistahs who liked my last Superbella! This Superbella looks so much better to me. I colored her dress with SU markers and her cape and her boots with Spica glittery pens. I added some pizzaz (probably not how you spell that) by rubbing my ink pad directly onto the background of the image. Fortunately, the background paper I used already had glitter, so I didn't have to do any of that! The Thank You is from SU.

Now on to tackle the New York trip blog entry...this might take a little while!

Mel =)

2008-09-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

Please visit this blog!! SUPER BLOG CANDY! http://bevscrafts.blogspot.com/ I hope you win...wait...I hope I win...um...I'm confused! hehe

Mel =)

Whiff of Joy and Scrap Biz

2008-09-09T11:11:00.001-07:00

Scrap Biz has 20,000 hits!!! Woo-hoo! Congrats Suzanne! She has a Blog candy from Whiff of Joy (pictured above). She always has really neat stamping ideas! Check it out! www.scrapbiz.blogspot.com and www.whiffofjoy.com (New stuff was added to Whiff of Joy recently! My orders going in shortly!)

Mel =)

Copic Spica markers...a new found love...

2008-09-06T17:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Shannon, I found these really cool markers...well, they're more like pens, but they color with a hint of glitter! I LOVE THEM!! Check this out...I ordered them Wednesday and they came today...Saturday! Crazy fast shipping!! Here is the link she gave me for anyone who wants it

http://www.ellenhutson.com/servlet/the-670/COPIC-Spica-Glitter-Pen/Detail

I made her a thank you card, but I will not post it until she gets it. I did however make a few other cards today. It is extremely hot outside and I just can't bare taking Sunshine out when it's like this. Plus, we went out last night with a bunch of friends and didn't get home til about 5am. I'm still really tired, but never too tired to make something!! =P Dale had to go to work...at 6am...poor patients. "Oh, you can't breathe...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...oh, sorry...what was your problem again!?" I can only imagine.

Mel =)

I am a mom of an 11 year old!

2008-09-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

My oldest daughter turned 11 today. Memories of "yesterdays" keep flashing as I look at her and how much she's grown in jus tthis past year. Man...I think she's going to be taller than me...not hard to do seeming I'm only 5'0! I made this Bella card for her. She has been drooling over these stamps..."Mom's stamps"...since I got my first one. She hasn't asked to use them, but I know she really wants to.

We planned a surprise trip to New York. She has always had this fascination with the big cities. We thought this would be a great age...not too young where she won't remember, but not too old to say..."Mom, I'm staying!"

I entered this card in the Bella Babe contest, but I really made it with her in mind.
Hope you like it!

Mel =)

Ms. July

2008-09-03T08:36:00.000-07:00

I think her colors came out too dark...what do you think? I was trying to get a 4th of July theme. Anyone have a really cute design I can see?? Hope all is well!

Mel =)

MORE BLOG CANDY

2008-09-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

Visit: www.paperimagerydesigns.blogspot.com
posted Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Altered Art Expressions Blog Anniverysary Give-A-Way

Ok here is the prize that you will win if you are the lucky winner picked from my Altered Art Expressions One Year Anniversary blog give-a-way!!

Now I am adding a nice prize to the package! If you post about this give a way with the added stamp prize to your blog and a link back to Paper Imagery Designs and if your name is picked you will receive in addition to the Halloween sheets this sheet of Halloween stamps from the Tim Holtz Collection from Stampers Annoymous!! Now how sweet is that!?

The winner of this Spooky Halloween Package will be chosen Sunday night on September 7th, make sure that you have a link to your site about this post linked back to Paper Imagery Designs and your email address so I can contact the winner!

NEW BLOG CANDY ALERT!!!

2008-09-01T22:20:00.001-07:00

This is a cool candy! Please visit www.loreenny16.blogspot.com! She is giving away...well, why ruin the surprize!? Check it out for yourself!

Mel =)

The January Girls and Ms. December

2008-09-01T17:53:00.001-07:00

I made January and December today! I had so much fun making these two! December has embossed snow under her feet. I don't think you can tell from the picture, but I smeared embossing ink, powdered and heated to get a raised, shiny, snow look! It came out great. Also, her fluffy trim is embossed...uhh...and the snowflakes over her head too...I got a little heat gun happy today. Enjoy!

Mel =)

I stayed home today...

2008-09-01T17:42:00.001-07:00

So, I admitted to myself and my hubby that I have a serious spending problem. I love to buy stuff for cardmaking and scrapbooking!! I buy it, then I don't use it. Or I buy it, use it, but don't have anyone to give the cards to! Ahh...I need my sister already! =) Anyhow...here's a couple of cards I made today using some of the stuff I bought at that new scrapbook store...I don't even know anyone having a baby...AHHH!! See what I mean!?

Mel =)

Ahhhahahaha...woops!

2008-09-01T17:28:00.001-07:00

Thanks Deb...Happy Labor Day! How could I forget...Iwas literally in "labor" on this day 11 years ago! =) hehehe

I found an awesome store!

2008-09-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

So...do you remember a few posts ago? The day I couldn't find the scrapbook store to submit my Aloha card? Well, my daughter and I decided to spend some time together Saturday morning. We took a drive to Elk Grove. We found it!! I actually am super happy I didn't find it the first time. I would have only had about 30 minutes because I had to pick up the girls from school. Kaila and I spent 3 hours and over $100 there. It was the best scrapbook store I think I've ever been in! They had really cute card samples and make-n-takes. Their website is www.scrapnstampstore.com. I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone who is passing through or lives in Northern California. Here are some of the pics we took!

Happy Memorial Day!

Mel =)

2008-08-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

Free Counter

Thank you so much Cheribella!!

2008-08-29T10:07:00.001-07:00

I have to say...this was just what I needed today! I am so fortunate to have found the Bellas. My new Bella Sistahs have made this new Blogging experience very easy! Thank you so much Cheri (http://www.cheribella.wordpress.com/) for your help posting pics!! You're the best!

My nominations for this award go to...drum roll please...

Katie www.papermakeup.blogspot.com You are a Supermom and very talented artist!
Theresa www.lil-bittacreativity.blogspot.com Thanks for passing on the knowledge and
sparking my creativity!
Tangi www.tangerinesdreamcreations.blogspot.com Thank you for including me in the swaps
and organizing all of the events. I know it's
not easy, but it's much appreciated!
Debby www.debbysstuff.blogspot.com Thank you for your regular posts. Your comments are
always nice to see!
Meli www.theglittergoddess.blogspot.com Thanks for sharing your life...makes mine seem not
so weird! =)

I know two or the five just got awards and I hope that's okay. I don't know more than 5 Bellas yet...I'm workin' on it!!

So here's the rules if you didn't know...

1. The winner can put the logo on their blog.
2. Link the person you received your award from.
3. Nominate at least 5 other blogs.
4. Before listing the nominees give a brief reason why you chose them.5. Put links of those blogs
on yours.
6. Leave a message on the blogs you have nominated

AHHH!!!

2008-08-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

I drove to Elk Gove, CA today with hopes of dropping off a card I made to enter it for their contest. It's about 45 minutes from my house so I squeezed it in between dropping off Sunshine and picking up the two girls from school. I got all the way there using directions from Mapquest.com and...what do ya know...mapquest is wrong! I couldn't find the place! Ahhh!!! So frustrated. Anyways...I figured my sistahs would appreciate it! =) Happy day anyway!

Mel =)

Ms. June

2008-08-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

Introducing Ms. June! I think this one came out the best...so far! =) I was downloading the calendar grids for the swap and didn't realize if I pressed print x4, I was printing the entire year!! Ahh...I pressed stop and it kept going. So, not really thinking too much about it, I turned the printer off. I don't know if that was a good idea. The little screen said, "back door open". I opened and shut the back door, nothing changed. I opened every possible opening on the freakin' machine and it still didn't work! Now it's just not printing! Err...maybe it'll fix itself by tomorrow!! =)

Hope everyone had a fabulous Saturday!

Mel =)

Ms. May

2008-08-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

Introducing...Ms...May!! I colored her feet...but wasn't sure if those are shoes! Hmmph! Oh well!

Dale and I joined the gym...go, fight, win! I think it'll be good for us. Kaila's in school from 8-3 and Sunshine from 12-3. My appointments aren't typically that early in the day so I figured it'll give me something to do and keep me away from spending money! =) Anyone have any favorite workout classes? Yoga? Spinning? Salsa!? I think I'm going to sign up for something like that...just don't know which one yet. Any advise?!

Mel =)

My 1st swap!!

2008-08-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I signed up for the calendar swap even though the calendar I started awhile ago is almost done! I'm so excited! I got my 2nd Bella order today...and, yes, I'm tempted to place another one! Ahh...I think I'm addicted! I can't imagine the damage I would do if I lived closer to headquarters! I would probably end up working there.

Well, I know these are not Bellas, but I enjoyed making them and thought I'd share. I figured out how to take clearer pics! I'm not sure if you can tell from the picture, but the non-basketball one has flies in the background! This set is too cute. I bought it on dollarstamps.com. The basketball one is for my hubby. His 30th birthday is next Friday. He used to be a basketball freak. He hurt his back and now he just talks about the good 'ol days! =)

Enjoy!

Mel =)

Ms. March

2008-08-17T22:16:00.000-07:00

I started making a calendar before I found out there was a swap for one. I figured it was a great gift idea!! That's why I had to place a second order...I ran out of Bellas!! (Good excuse, huh!?) That's what I told hubby at least! hehehe...I bought the chipboard from this lady on Ebay. She sells it already cut and punched. All I had to do was buy the binder clips at Walmart and wa-la! (That's not how you spell that huh!?) I'm not done as I am still waiting for my 2nd order, but I can post one month at a time. The month (not shown in this picture) was stamped using the Stampin' up Calendar (109298) and Full Calendar (111045). I'm not sure what to do for the front and back cover though...any ideas!?

Mel =)

Okay...let's see if this works!

2008-08-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

This is my very first attempt to upload a picture to my new blog...please let me know what you think! Here we go...

Oh My Goodness! I can see it! Can you!? hehe

http://www.hulachickabella.blogspot.com/

Go, fight, win!

Mel =)

Welcome ME !!

2008-08-16T20:38:00.000-07:00

I welcome myself to the blogging world...a world I didn't understand...something I honestly thought was a waste of time...until I met the Bellas! I haven't even met any of you personally, but reading your blogs through my daily email and seeing more people just like me, feels like I know each one of you already. I am unsure as to which I love most...making cards or buying stuff to make cards! I first heard of Stamping Bella from splitcoaststampers.com and instantly fell in love. I felt like a kid in a candy store. I ended up placing two orders this month alone and am already listing what I'm going to order next!! Is that weird?

Oh well, a little about myself...I am a 28 year young mother of 2. My daughters are 10 and 4. They LOVE stamping with Mom! I will post some of their stuff too...too cute! I have been married for 5 years, but together for 9. I am in the beginning stages of building a Primerica Financial Services agency. It is another passion of mine. I am a daughter, a sister, a mentor and a friend. I stamp because it takes me away from my hectic life. It allows me to have "me" time and not to feel guilty. I sometimes push myself too hard and forget to take care of "me".

I started stamping in 2003. I was introduced to it by a Stampin' Up demonstrator at a party at Mom's work. I had gone on maternity leave the day before and had lots of time. $300 later and a Demonstrator Agreement signed, I was going to conquer the world! =) Only until recently did I venture out to other stamps. I guess you can call me "loyal"! tehehe...and a little crazy!

Thanks for you time...and can someone tell me how this blog thing works?!?! how do I become part of groups and stuff?! =)

Mel =)