Scrap Stuff | Layouts to share...

Today I'm sharing with you, a couple more layouts from this year's Savvy Delights retreat.  I don't know if I've said it before, but yellow is my favourite scrapbooking colour. I like to treat it as if its a neutral. You may think that's strange, but give it a go! It will lift every single layout you do.

This layout is saturated in yellow! The background paper caught my eye instantly...it reminds me of nanna-style wallpaper. lol. This was created for another sketch challenge, this time by Susan Longman. This photo just cracks me up. Eme, being the little darling she is, was having her photo taken by Granny, when she stuck her finger up her nose! Classy. It just so happened that they were watching Antiques Roadshow at the time, and the look on the lady's face on the tv was priceless! I think I looked the same when I first saw the photo. If you don't know what a photobomb is...click here. Note: content can be a bit racy, and isn't suitable for children.

I customised three flowers to create this flower. I split a Prima flower that was topped with an organza bow, then layered the flower, a doily, the bow and topped it with another flower. You don't have to use your embellishments how they are in the package...go ahead and customise them.

Often when I'm scrapbooking, I refer back to stories on my blog. This layout was inspired by this post about toilet training. Eme was so proud of herself for giving up the night time pull-ups. I know it seems like a silly thing to scrapbook, but this was a major step in her development and the last of her baby-ness. It actually made me a little sad. No more babies in our household.

There's really no reason for this photo, other than the flowers are pretty...and who doesn't like pretty flowers?!

Wishing you all a fabulous week! Are you planning on getting crafty?

Ooh! that's Pinterest...ing | The Halloween edition

This year, I'm celebrating Halloween vicariously through Pinterest.  We don't normally celebrate Halloween in our own home, but boy if I did...

there'd be plenty of yummy treats

the kids would wear super cute and super smart outfits

mummy would have halloween jewels

the house would be decorated with loads of handmade spooky, yet fun, stuff

oh, we'd have such a fun time!

All of these images can be found on my "spooky stuff" Pinterest board. If you need an invitation to join Pinterest, send me an email and I'll invite you.  Linking up with Tina for...

Happy Halloween!

Scrap stuff | Layouts to share...

I still have plenty of layouts to share from my time at this year's Savvy Delights Retreat. Sandra and Sarah have just announced next year's retreat! I know the next 12 months is going to absolutely fly by.

This first layout features Seth's 2011 school portrait. Our school alternates the photos between summer and winter, so this year's photo shows his winter uniform. Love him in a little tie.  Don't ask me why we didn't get his hair cut before his photo was taken. Its looking rather like a big, red mop! He'll be the kid that gets pointed out in the photo in years to come, when his schoolmates are all grown, saying "check out his hair!". lol.  This layout was based on a sketch by Wendy Smith and features some fun school products by A Lil' Somethin'.

This next layout was for a challenge I set for the retreat, to use transparency on your layout. I created a transparency sheet especially for the retreat...with silhouettes, frames, borders, doilies, birds, a quote, and of course, an owl for Sandra.  This photo was taken using Hipstamatic. I was able to print it direct from facebook, at my local photo developer.  The journaling reads..."Its amazing how the kids can have loads of expensive toys...yet they choose to play with a cardboard box...go figure!". lol.

Here's a closeup of the transparencies, clustered with some fun embellishments. I love the whimsical nature of silhouettes...I think I might have to get bigger ones to display at home.

I have some more layouts to share in a few days.  Have you been scrapbooking lately?

Things I know | The Hen's Party edition

Here's what I know...Saturday night has the potential to get a bit messy.  My sister-in-law to be is having her Hen's Night! I'm so excited that Nathan and Racheal's wedding is coming up at the end of November. Its going to fabulous...but before that can happen, the time honoured tradition of the Hen's Night needs to be observed.

I know...that I'm becoming more and more of a prude in my old age. The whole thought of watching a male stripper just makes my stomach turn.  I think I'm scarred for life following the full nudity strip show I saw when I was in Hawaii at the impressionable age of 16. Let's just say there was a mask, a cap and a male appendage flung in my face...but that's a whole other blog post!.

I know...there are a lot of penis shaped items available to purchase for hen's nights...ice cube trays, straws, cake moulds, whistles, slippers, you name it. I just can't bring myself to purchase any of it. I'm just not ready to have that conversation with my daughter as to what they are. lol.

I don't know...why everything related to hen's nights has to be pink, but I'm rolling with it.  I've picked up a delightful satin sash for the bride-to-be and I'm making her the most stunning tiara and veil combination...all to be paired with a shot glass attached to a pearl necklace. Gorgeous. (sarcasm meter just flew off the charts)

I know...that despite the outfit we'll be making her wear on her hen's night, Racheal is going to make one seriously gorgeous bride and I can't wait to see her walk down the aisle.

I know...that my own hen's day was a fairly subdued event...just perfect for me. We took a private bus up to the Hunter Valley and visited a heap of wineries. The whole day, I proudly wore a hot pink veil and tiara that my friend Donna made. It was a fabulous day with the girls...and yes, I did end up very tipsy. Good times.

I know...that the best piece of advice I can give to the bride-to-be comes from the incredibly wise Bloggess...learn to pick your battles, otherwise you too could find a metal chicken named Beyonce on your front porch.

I know...that what happens on hen's night, stays on hen's night.  Enough said. lol.

What did you do for your pre-wedding celebrations?

Review | Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure

Have you heard of Skylanders yet? If not...what rock have you been hiding under??  This game is the hottest new release from Activision, and is the top pick for kids this Christmas.


I recently attended a bloggers event where we were given a preview of the game, a Skylanders figure and brochure. It looked pretty cool and thought Seth might be interested. Interested is an understatement! He started counting down until its release and knew everything about it even before he'd played the game!


So, what is Skylanders?  Its an interactive game where you get to choose the character you wish to play...literally.  There are over 30 Skylanders characters to collect, and each one has its own unique abilities and powers.  Not only that, the toys have brains...they remember their in-game experiences and upgrades as you play along. Needless to say, this game is a total hit in the Warren house!

"For generations, the Skylanders have used their magical powers and weapons to protect Skylands. But now, an evil tyrant has frozen them into toys and banished them to Earth. Only you can put them on the Portal of Power and bring them back to life in their world to save Skylands forever."

The starter pack comes with everything you need to start your adventure:

• Skylanders Spyro's Adventure software
• Portal of Power
• 3 Skylanders Figures
• 3 Trading Cards
• 1 Sticker Sheet for all three characters
• 3 Skylanders Spyro's Universe Codes
• Collector Poster

How do you play? The Portal of Power is wirelessly connected to your game console. When you place your Skylander figure on top, the character comes alive on the screen. How awesome is that!  You can place more than one figure on the Portal of Power at a time...the characters can work together, or they can battle each other.


Our Wii console is set up in the play room so that the kids can play without jumping all over the place. Our play room has become very popular lately.  The neighbourhood kids have been knocking on our door with their Wii remotes and nunchucks in hand, ready to play. lol. Here's Seth (8) and Curtis (12) playing together.  Both Seth and Curtis think its unreal! Curtis has already convinced his mum that this is the one thing he wants for Christmas.


This game is perfect for the whole family.  Andrew has had a play and is so impressed with the graphics, and the story line...assuring me that it is suitable for Eme (6) as well, and that there's so much content, it will take ages to get through! Sounds like a winner to me.  Seth has already collected seven figurines and has been adding the stickers to his poster so he knows which ones he is yet to collect...very handy when nannas ask what they can buy for Christmas.


So, what if don't have a Wii? No problem. Its also available on Nintendo 3DS, PS3, XBox 360, PC and WinMac.  Not only that...if your child wants to play at a friend's house, you can take your Skylanders over, drop them on their Portal of Power, and your Skylanders will come to life in the game! No need to buy additional characters for each platform. That is brilliant!  Here's the trailer...

This game is already a huge hit in our household and I know it will be in your's too. There's some great deals instore at the moment leading up to Christmas...do Santa a favour and pop one on layby before the shops run out.



Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy from Activision for review purposes. No financial payment was offered nor accepted for this post. All opinions expressed are purely my own.

Winner | The Fox and the Hound 1 & 2 dvds

Congratulations to Kirsty!  You've won a copy of each of Disney's classic movies "The Fox and the Hound" and "The Fox and the Hound 2" on dvd! Your family is going to love this prize.

Thank you to everyone who entered. There are more chances to win some great prizes coming up right here on the Life as we know it blog. Stay tuned.

Halloween Light Show - Party Rock Anthem

Seriously.

How could I not share this?!!

There's flashing lights.

It features my kids favourite song.

Its super-dooper fun and supremely clever!

ENJOY.

It doesn't matter if you celebrate Halloween or not...everyone loves a light show.
And to those who do...I hope your Halloween is spooktacular!

Trinkets on Tuesday | Purple haze

Today, I felt like wearing purple. Not completely covered like Grimace...just a few accessories that would lift my all black outfit for this dark and dreary, rainy day. Purple is not one of my favourite colours, but it works so well with black and grey, that its a must in my wardrobe. 

The colour purple affects us mentally and physically...its:

• Uplifting
• Calming to the mind and nerves
• Offers a sense of spirituality
• Encourages creativity

So today, I'm carrying my purple handbag with frilly rosette detail...

a ring by Diva...

...and a necklace, which was a gift from a friend.

What colour accessories are you wearing today?

For more trinkets, visit the Diva Mum.

Scrap stuff | Halloween

One thing you notice most about scrapbooking annual events, is how quickly the next one rolls around!  I can't believe next Monday will be Halloween!  The last couple of years, the kids and I have celebrated Halloween at my friend Sandra's house, and I have only just gotten around to documenting the photos that were taken last year. She always goes all out, and the kids love dressing up.  Last year, Seth wore his glow in the dark skeleton outfit, and Eme dressed as a little devil...both kids looked adorable! We eat ghoulish food, play games, and carve pumpkins...love it.

Sandra had custom chipboard made by WOW to give to each of the scrapbookers attending her party...the perfect embellishment to accompany fun Halloween photos. This was originally one piece of chipboard, but I've separated some of the words so that I could layer them. Each piece has been coated in coloured markers, then a little glitter added for that hint of sparkle.

Each side of the double page spread could work as a single page layout. Here they are a bit closer up. I took way too many photos for just one page though, and I wanted to show off everyone's outfits.  First up, the left hand side.

We made Sandra a card to celebrate. If you're looking for a super-dooper easy card to make for Halloween, stamp your kids footprints, turn upside down and add a ghostly face like I have in the picture below. Quick and easy, but very effective.

Here's the right hand side of the double.  I made a cake to take along. It was a purpley-grey inside, with bright orange icing and a dripping black web. It looked a little gross, but tasted delicious! To get in the spirit, I also made a tarantula fascinator...urgh. I don't care that its plastic...its still a spider and it creeps me out. lol.

Do you go photo crazy when everyone dresses up?

btw - the super sweet vintage book paper bunting is by A Lil' Somethin'. Their next sale starts tomorrow night!

Mum stuff | Simple gift solution...

Figuring out what to buy a child for their birthday or Christmas can seem like a very daunting and stressful task.  A little piece of wisdom was imparted on me years ago, and I want to share it with you! Remembering this little saying has saved me many, many hours of work. 

I put this saying into practise recently for my daughter's 6th birthday.  I asked Emeline what she would like for her birthday (first mistake) and she rattled off a list a mile long. Seems that Squinkies, Zhu Zhu's, Barbies and princesses are on her mind...a lot. She also requested a pretty dress from Target. I don't know why it had to come from that particular store, but she was pretty adamant.  Armed with this information, I started formulating a shopping list in accordance with this saying.

Off to Target I went (second mistake). I keep forgetting that Shellharbour Square is undergoing MAJOR renovations and its impossible to get parking...but I was on a mission.  Eme is still in the size 1-6 range of clothing at Target, so a lot of the stuff is still very junior. I managed to find the cutest coral coloured dress with frills on the skirt and a cute belt.  Next to the toy section.  I did look at the Squinkies and Zhu Zhu's, but decided to cut back...afterall, Christmas is coming and Santa can bring them...and let's face it, she has toys coming out the yahzoo!  I scoured the book section for age/reading level appropriate books and decided that she's definitely beyond the big picture book phase. All in all, I had finished my shopping trip in 1/2 hour. Pretty happy with that!

This is what we bought Eme for her birthday.

• something they want - Barbie Princess Charm School dvd
• something they need - new summer sandals
• something to wear - the dress, plus a couple of t-shirts, tights and a skirt (all coordinating of course)
• something to read - a box set of "Pearlie" books 1-6

This year, we also threw her a big birthday party and I'll share those pics in another post. The birthday girl was very happy!  See for yourself...

Eme loved each of her presents, and she wasn't upset at all that she didn't get everything off her wish list. Using the little saying above meant that she got a little of what she wanted, what she needed, and something educational. It works every time.

Feel free to use it on your next gift shopping expedition and to share/pin. Let me know how you go...

Mum stuff | Would you select the gender of your baby?

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Its not too often that I feel compelled to comment on something that I read in the newspaper. Today is different. The SMH has run an article titled "When parents select baby's sex" and its got me thinking...how many people out there would choose the sex of their baby if they were given the choice?

In our experience, Andrew and I decided to wait until our babies were born to find out what sex they were. There are so few great surprises in the world, and we wanted to experience the biggest surprise of all. I cannot even begin to tell you how joyous that moment was. Just before Seth was born, we asked the midwife not to tell us, we wanted to look ourselves. I remember Andrew lifting that little baby leg and bursting into tears..."IT'S A BOY!!". We were thrilled beyond belief! I would not have traded in our little boy for anything.

When I was pregnant for the second time, I was so certain we were having another boy, and I was so excited that Seth was going to have a little brother. We even picked the name Brodie, which means second-born son in Scottish.  Bub was born, and the midwife announced that we had a little girl...what!! I was in complete shock. Of course, I fell in love with my daughter instantly, but it was a very confusing time. I remember the nurse rousing me to come and feed my baby the next night, and I had to ask her again what we'd had. lol.

Would I have chosen the sex of our children? Absolutely not. We've been blessed with two happy and healthy babies, and that's all we ever asked for. People often assume that we don't need to have any more children because we "got one of each". This comment always annoys me. The article talks about couples wanting to select the gender of the children so that they'll have a gender balance. Just ridiculous.

So what happens when you do have two children (or more) of the same gender?  At my Dad's retirement dinner last year, a co-worker asked him if he had any children, to which he replied..."yes, I have two daughters". The response..."oh, what a shame you didn't have a son"...said with pity. I love my Dad's reply though..."Why? I love my two beautiful daughters and I wouldn't have it any other way". I can't believe that my poor Dad still has to justify his children after 37 years...and let's face it...he scored two great son-in-laws.

Another friend, upon having her second son, and still in hospital, had a relative ask her if she was going to try again for a girl. Geez, give them woman a break. Her son was only 2 days old! Her sons are the same age as Seth and Emeline, and cherished just the same as any baby. She loves her boys and wouldn't swap them for the world.

I have friends who have lost children, and who have not been able to fall pregnant at all. Do you think those women would want to select the gender of their baby? I don't think so. The gift of a much wished for child is a blessing...whether its of the pink or blue variety.

[image source]

I have no problem with people knowing the sex of their child before they are born, but I draw the line at gender selection.  What are your thoughts?  Over to you...

Edited to add...when I wrote this post, it was written purely from a gender selection for "vanity" point of view. I completely agree with selection to eradicate/avoid genetic diseases. Loving everyone's point of view...keep those comments coming. Thanks everyone.

Mum stuff | Time to clear some clutter...

Its obvious from looking at this picture of my linen press, that its been neglected...for quite some time.  I just know that the Organised Housewife would probably have an anxiety attack if she saw this. lol.  Every time I open the door to literally shove something else in there, I think to myself, I really must get around to organising that cupboard!

I have another linen press in the laundry to house all of our bed linen, and this one is supposed to be just for towels. I can see all manner of crap in here, and its near impossible to to find what you want in a timely manner.

Yesterday, I opened the door, took a photo for your benefit (lol), then pulled everything out and onto the floor.  I didn't realise how many towels we actually owned! I also found some sheets and pillow cases that I've been looking for. Go figure.

It didn't take long for me to fill two large garbage bags full of towels to donate to charity. I purged everything that was baby related...all the tiny towels, the hooded towels, the little beach towels etc.  I got the kids involved too, asking them if they really wanted to keep them all. Thankfully they answered no. Most of our towels are over ten years old now (wedding presents), and some are starting to get very tatty. They were put into a rag bag, and I kept a couple to use when we wash the dog. They'll be kept in the garage with the rest of our dog paraphernalia.

Next step, refolding everything we decided to keep, and putting it all back in. Voila! I can't believe how tidy it is. Love it. One less spot I have to worry about in our house.

The top shelf has my Christmas linen, the kids Easter baskets and the birthday wreath I recently made.

Next up, all our yellow towels and face washers. There's some yellow towels on the line at the moment, so they now have a place to go once they're dry.

Then the navy and green shelf. The navy towels are currently in the ensuite.

Beach towels fill the next shelf. I actually purged ten beach towels. Seriously, how many does one family need?!! The kids now have three each, and Andrew and I have one each. Plenty.

Last, but not least, I bought a basket to put in the bottom shelf to house all of my vases. Yes, I have quite a few, and I did cull them. Now I can access them easily just by pulling out the basket. I might have to donate a few more...we'll see.

There you have it, from chaos to order.

Next stop is the bed linen cupboard.  I have gone through that cupboard too and have donated quite a bit. I'll share the end result soon and how to actually fold a fitted bed sheet to perfection!

How's your linen press going? When was the last time you went through your linen?

Tag You're It - 10 things

So, the gorgeous Beck from The Rambling Mummy has tagged me to share 10 things you don't know about me. My life's a pretty open book...not sure there's much left to share! lol. Here goes..


One - I absolutely hate having full length photos taken of myself...particularly when I'm sitting down. I will avoid them like the plague. My friend Belinda was playing with my camera at a recent scrapbooking retreat, and captured this one. I don't hate it. Its not the best, but its me. Enjoy it now, because there won't be another one taken any time soon.


Two - My favourite sandwich is chicken schnitzel and coleslaw with loads of black pepper on fresh white bread. I know its not good for me, but its delicious.


Three - Every time I watch Anne of Green Gables, I cry like a baby...particularly when Matthew dies, and when Gilbert gives up the Avonlea school to Anne. I even start crying just before those scenes start because I know they're coming up! I'm such a sookie-lala. I'm welling up just thinking about it.


Four - My desk at work is surrounded by pictures coloured in by my kids, photos of my family and a couple of inspirational quotes. I love it. The colour scheme in the office is white and beige, so it definitely brightens up my space and makes me happy. Every time the kids come to visit, they get so excited to see their work on display. I actually work below ground level, but have the luxury of looking out over a courtyard garden that opens up to the street level above. Its beautiful...filled with native ferns, palms, lilies and other plants.


Five -  I recently read this post by my friend Naomi and it made me sad. I can relate to it so much. I've often felt very lonely. As I said to Naomi...I've always felt like the Sharon from Kath and Kim...the second best friend. I don't have a female best friend and I never have. I don't know why that is. I'm a very giving person, and it never gets returned. My experiences of friendship have left me very disappointed sometimes. I guess that's why I'm painfully shy now. I just feel like I won't be good enough.  It sucks, but what can you do.


Six - Every Friday, I spend my lunch hour wandering through the Wollongong creative traders and organic produce markets. There's always something fabulous to find. My favourite food stalls are the cake stall for the caramel slice and red velvet cake, the olive man for his baklava and fresh ricotta filled cannoli, and the satay man for his fish cakes and panang curry (not all eaten on the same day). I the vegetable and herb seedlings, the handmade clothes for kids and felted items and much much more. If you're visiting Wollongong, head to the mall on a Friday! Today, being Friday, that's where you'll find me.


Seven - I much prefer winter to summer. There's nothing better than snuggling under a blankie to keep warm. My blankie of choice actually belongs to Eme. Its a patchwork of vintage chenille squares, backed in flannelette. Its so pretty and warm.  Sometimes she tries to steal it from me, but usually we end up sitting under it together. I love the weight of blankets on top of me. I'm dreading sleeping with just a sheet this summer (if it ever warms up!).


Eight - I have never missed an episode of Jerseylicious. I'm obsessed with the Gatsby crew. lol. Andrew chooses to do something else while I indulge in a little Jerseylicious goodness. Its so drama-filled and full of big personalities and massive pieces of costume jewellery and fake boobs...what's not to love! Will Gigi and Frankie get back together? Is Gayle going to sell the Gatsby? Will Tracy and Olivia ever make up? Will Olivia dump that meathead of a boyfriend? Will Fili learn how to button his shirt closed? I hope not. lol.

Nine - I love babies. I love the smell. I love the cuddles. Everything. I can get a screaming baby to sleep in a matter of minutes (they like my comfy body). I love watching shows about babies being born and none of the gore and screaming bothers me at all. I supported my sister during labour and although it was a tiring experience, I enjoyed every minute. I felt like I was helpful and a calming influence. I often wonder if I'd make a good midwife.  ps. I won't be having any more babies myself, so get that thought out of your mind please.


Ten - I have a bright yellow purse that is full of old receipts, and no cash. lol. I pay for everything by card, and it drives my mother crazy. At the most, I might have $20 in there maximum at any given time. My hubby is the same, and he always asks me if I have money for bread, milk etc, so it doesn't stay in there long at all. I just know that if I have money in my purse, I'll spend it!

This list was a lot harder to compile than I thought! Its time to pass the baton though...

Tag, you're it!
Kirsty @ Mummy to Five
Jodie @ Muddled Up Mumma
Tina @ Tina Gray {dot} Me
Norlin @ Just Us Kids Online
Naomi @ Seven Cherubs

Tuesday Ten | Setting mini goals for 2011

Given that there is less than 3 months until the end of the year, I've decided to set myself ten mini goals of things I'd like to achieve before I say a big hello to 2012!  Here they are in on particular order of preference...

One - Have a fun family photoshoot to create our Christmas card for this year.  I also want to write a brief letter to include on the inside highlighting some of the things we've enjoyed as a family this year. Then, (and this is the big one) actually send out Christmas cards to those people special to me. Last year I made all my cards and then never sent them. What a waste of time that was! This year it will be created digitally...loving these ones...

Two - Make at least five things that have I have pinned on my Pinterest boards. Those boards are pretty, but they need to be put into practise!  Question is...do I then delete it from the board because I've achieved it??  Do you use Pinterest? Come and look me up...


Three - Reorganise the kids wardrobes and drawers so that they are functional...you know, all the t-shirts together, all the shorts, the undies...you get my drift. At the moment, Eme's drawers look like she's pulled everything out, then rolled it up in a ball and shoved it back in. Seth's are no better. I will donate clothes to charity that no longer fit. Check out the fantastic ideas shared by Larissa at My Pigeon Pair.

Four - Tidy our bedroom (with Andrew's help) and keep it that way until the new year and beyond. Think of Hoarders, and you'll have an accurate picture of our bedroom at the moment.  No point asking the kids to tidy their rooms if we aren't doing the same. Ok, maybe its not as bad as Hoarders...there's no way I could sleep in a room like this!

Five - Repaint my scraproom. I thought I could handle the rusty red and sandy coloured walls, but I'm a blue girl. I need to be surrounded by blue! The red accessories will still work with the blue I'm imagining...something like a Tiffany's gift box.

Six - Go on a date with my husband. I can't remember the last time we went out...just the two of us. I don't care if its a picnic or dinner or a movie. Heck, I'd even take a romantic home cooked meal with the kids having a sleepover at the grandparents.

Seven - Learn how to braid my own hair. I can braid Eme's hair no problem, but I want those super cute braids too. I've pinned some tutorials on Pinterest...just have to make the time. I'm guessing this won't be happening on a work day, unless I become an expert pretty quickly (not likely). This looks super easy though...

Eight - Save some money by cutting back on unnecessary expenditure...like buying lunch and magazines. Thinking I'll save a fortune!  I normally buy NW and OK every week. If there's 12 weeks until the end of the year, that's a savings of $120 alone!! That's going to be a hard one...I love my glossy mags full of ridiculous brain candy. Lunch can cost up to $10 a day, if not more...that's $50 a week...$600 in 12 weeks! WHAT!! Ok, stopping now...I'm not going to add that up retrospectively.

Nine - Finish decorating Eme's bedroom. I bought some curtains in August that need hemming and they're still sitting in the cupboard. I also have some frames that need hanging. Poor little chicken with her half done bedroom. #firstworldproblems

Ten - Have a girls night out that isn't scrapbooking related. This isn't something I do very often, but its definitely well over due. I have some really wonderful friends, and unfortunately with everyone being so busy with family and work, we sometimes forget to catch up. Its been way too long! Who's with me?

What are the things you're hoping to achieve before the end of 2011?