Flossie and Tom

Thrifting Treasures

2011-02-07T04:28:00.001-08:00

Last week was really good for treasure hunting - I wasnt going to bother as have so much to do at the moment.

Wednesday we had to pop in to our local village (more like a small town and certainly not in the quaint catergory), we needed a few provisions and to collect my prescription.

Luckily with it being Wednesday it is the Bric A Brac market (this also sounds much much better than it really is ).

Think tat and cheap mobile phone chargers, lots of plastic toys and a jacket potato stall !!

Hubby loves to get down there as there is one hardware stall that has lots of great nails and screws (yawn) - turns out that this stallholder has started doing some bric a brac as well.

The tapestry above was in a huge wooden frame about 8 inches thick and the same thickness in dirt and grime - I could just about make out the colours and loved them so asked how much ?

£4 !!!! well I couldnt argue at that could I ?

The doilies and embroidered traycloth were from another local town on Thursday - we needed to pop to there to a hardware store for a trowel (yawn again) so I nipped my head into the charity shops - these were 25p for 4.

Cat toffee tin from Bric A Brac stall - 50p

Old Terry choclate box - just love the colous and thought it would look nice in my sewing cupboard behind the glass - 50p (on another bric a brac stall, in a box, full of rubbish under the table.

Beautiful cake plate - £2.50 from charity shop

I did have some other little finds as well - so not bad when I wasnt even looking.

How bad is this wind we've got ?!

Next doors have huge conifers and I'm hoping they dont end up in our garden but the way they are swaying I'm not so sure.

Doing well with to do list - time for it all to go pear shaped though :)

Quick Hello

2011-02-06T06:21:00.000-08:00

I don't know where this week has gone again !

I think instead of writing "to do" list I am going to start writing "have done" lists - although I get loads done I never feel satisfied as there are stll 3 million things on my to do list.

This weeks list so far:

Need to get listing on ebay as need some money to celebrate my 4oth in March

I want to create a "happy wall" - photos that make me smile so need to sort through the photo box, scan them in, turn to black and white and then get printed in various sizes to match frames (which I havent got yet !)

I want to carry on with my crochet blanket.

My crochet scarf that is nearly completed is not pleasing me as a scarf - so i think I am going to unpick squares and join them to make xushion covers.

I've set myself a target of 3 blog posts this week (yeah right)

I have had to install my scanner software as it has stopped working (have done this just)

The PC needs defragging desperately

SPyware needs running

Daughters laptop needs sorting as its running as slow as I do for a bus !

Washing, ironing, cooking, cleaning shopping.

Wednesday I am having a naughty wisdom tooth out in hospital as it is side on , wrapped round a facial nerve and the bone needs drilling (lovely)

Crochet edgings round my thrifted pillowcases

Embroidery for my friend

SO not much then .......................................

Sorry its not an image filled post but I have only just sorted PC out - will leave you with my test scanned photo - me when I was 3 - probably the only picture you will get to see with me in as I hate photos of myself !!

Will try and post tomorrow with last thursdays thrift finds and crochet squares and blanket :)

Thrifting Finds

2011-01-28T03:22:00.000-08:00

Thursdays are my day off - sometimes I think it is only Thursdays that keep me sane.
When I worked evenings when the munchkins were little - Thursdays were my worst day of the week - I had to be in work for 5pm apart from a Thursday when I had to be in at 1pm for a team leader meeting.Every week the meeting would be the same - nothing achieved, nothing sorted, just a long boring waste of time - so I dreaded Thursdays.

Now though, Thursdays are so lovely . As you may know we home educate the kids and its brilliant but I think we do need a break from each other sometimes.My Mom and Dad have the children (and the dog) down to their house on Thursdays, cook them a lovely dinner and I think they all enjoy it. Kids get fussed over, Mom gets someone to fuss over and Dad gets a break from Mom fussing over him !!They do take some work with them to do in the morning but I think spending time with Grandparents is just as educational and important.

So Thursdays are "our" day - hubby doesnt work Thursdays so its our chance to get things done round the house, garden or go off exploring (which is my personal favourite).
Yesterday we were time limited as I had a hospital appt at 3pm so we just popped to one of our favourite towns anout 10 miles away. Its very pretty and has always served us well in the thrifting dept.

Yesterday was no exception :-Vintage skyline kitchen utensils - 50p each

Vintage embroidered linens - total price £4

Beautiful blank notebook and vintage cookery book - £1.70 total
Gorgeous 10 x 8 frame - unused - £3

And wool - £2 and lots of vintage unused buttons - 20p a pack
I was really pleased - just have to find somewhere to put them now !!

Christmas Prezzies (a bit late I know)

2011-01-25T02:50:00.000-08:00

I know most of you very efficient bloggers did a show and tell about their Christmas presents at Christmas !!!I had taken the photos but they have just been sitting around till today - I think I may have found my MOJO - its early days and I dont want to get too excited but it may definately be on its way back.......

I ordered The Cath Kidston stuff on Christmas Eve from the John Lewis website who had already put their sale on - I treated myself to some of her pyjamas as well - a whole £17 off !!!!

I had wanted this crochet book for a while and may (if the MOJO hangs around for a bit) do some scarves for Christmas presents next year.

My work bag I bought from CK in Bath when I went away at the beginning of December with "the girls" - i did um and ahh as it's £35 but my friend said that sometimes you have to throw worrying about the money out of the window - I'm so glad she did - I think I've used it every day since then.

The other books were bought from ebay and that cheapy book shop that i can never remember the name of.
The Cool Girls Guide To Crochet and Sew Many Bags were £2 each - again from Bath - all my friends are buying clothes and I get on the coach with my Workbag and Craft Books !!!! I'm the youngest as well ........

Don't you just love this knitting pattern - I use a hot water bottle quite a lot as I have a fused vertebrae in my neck and get a lot of shoulder and neck tension.

I've always wrapped a clean towel round it when its too hot but I saw this pattern on ebay and thought it would be much nicer to snuggle up to. Unfortunately I cant knit so my Mom has been asked very nicely - I'm hoping I might have it by the weekend as she is so quick at knitting.

Right, better get back to helping the kids, they are starting work for their English and Human Biology GCSEs, we had the results for their Maths a couple of weeks agao and they had both passed - really proud of them - they are only 12 and 14.

Master T had an interview with the Open University in November and they have accepted him to start studying with them - his course is due to start on February 8th, he's doing Human Nutrition so I'm quite looking forward to learning about it myself.

Anyway they both seem a little distracted at the moment talking about facebook and phone cases so i better go and crack the whip (not literally - obviously) XX

Handcrafted Presents

2011-01-23T04:23:00.000-08:00

I made quite a few presents at Christmas, I always find it a bit tricky as I dont want people to think I'm a skinflint so I think the recipients have to be chosen very carefully.

Luckily all the presents were very gratefully received, I think crafting for children is a bit of a safer bet then the grown ups (unless its your Mom or Nan).

The picture above was to celebrate the birth of another Great Nephew (makes me sound about 90, I was born much later than my sisters so my nieces and nephews are closer in age to me) - I do sometimes get introduced as "the mistake" :)

I normally like to make the birth pictures a bit more in depth but I ran out of time, I do quite like the simplicity and I suppose it wont age as much as a childish picture.

The Christmas stocking was a cheat - I bought a load of these stockings in the sale last year for £2 each and then just applique names on the cuff - which is very simple - all 6 little people know have their very own.

And finally my very first attempt at bunting - my niece gave me the stripy fabric as it matches the curtains in the nursery - I did make the reverse plain so they didnt have to have the name showing if they didn't want.

I'm trying to decide what to do with myself today - my hair needs drying before it turns into a big ball of fluff but after that I'm not sure.

Hubby works a 12 hour shift on a Sunday, Miss T is going out with her friend, Master t is working on a bike renovation at his friends house so its just me and the pets.

There's a load of housework that should be done but I feel like being more creative than that. Might make a cup of tea and have a think about it - trouble is before you know it its dark again and the day has just disappeared !!

Got to go the cat is screaming at the french doors to be let in !!

Quilts For Queensland

2011-01-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

I dont know how many of you read the blog of Retro Mummy in Australia but her blog is amazing and I've followed it for over a year.

She has four beautiful children, runs a fabric web shop, bakes, goes to church, zumba classes, takes the children to dance classes and church groups and I get tired just reading about it all.

Queensland has suffered such devastation with the floods and there are so many sad stories of loss of life and homes that Corrie has set up an appeal.

She has launched a Quilts for Queensland appeal here , you dont have to make a quilt just a 12.5 inch square to be used for a quilt, she has a group of friends who are all going to put them together and she is asking her bloggy friends in the region for deserving families in their communities to send them to. Her husband has to fly to Queensland once a week so he will take them to save on postage (oh yes did I mention Retro Daddy works away for half every week as well - think I would be Nervous Breakdown Mummy not Retro Mummy.)

Please help out if you can, the link above contains all email addresses and information, appliques squares are just as welcome if you are unable to quilt and as Corrie herself said "this is not MasterQuilt !!!!!! just have fun.

We are having a go , I thought it would be a good DT project for the kids sometimes I do struggle with this home educating to think of things to do so hopefully I will be able to post some pictures of our attempts, hopefully they will be good enough to send.

Stress Over

2011-01-16T03:28:00.001-08:00

I cant believe I havent blogged since December 7th (short sharp wrap over the knuckles). I was in such a panic back then, no presents bought (no money to buy them with), no decorations up, feeling very sorry for myself with my health, worrying about my Dad, kids, dog and everything else that poped into my mind on a minute by minute basis.

I look back now and feel slightly (well hugely) ridiculous - everything got sorted bit by bit, we did have a bit of a scare with my Dad but he seems back on his feet now.

I really must stop worrying incessantly - does anyone have any tips ????

When I'm in the midst of a worry phase my creativity hits a brick wall - a huge 10ft black brick wall.

Its making things that keeps me sane so I end up in a very vicious circle.

I read in a book recently that to change your energy and the energy that you attract you should thing of 10 things that you are grateful every day - so hear goes.

1. I have nearly finished my crochet scarf project.

2. Miss T and her friend are taking the dog for his walk in a minute. ( photo after his bath yesterday)

3. Master T seems much better after being ill for 2 weeks with the flu

4. I had a lovely lie in this morning

5. I love feeling snuggly and warm inside but hearing the wind gusting outside.

6. I have already tidied all the kitchen and emptied the dishwasher.

7. I have plans to start a present for my moms cousin

8. I won a lovely cross stitch book on ebay that i have just paid for

9. I have just sold three knitting patterns on ebay which paid for the cross stitch book

10. I only have 1 very tiny pile of ironing left

I know they arent ground breaking "I've just won the lottery !" but actually they all make me feel really warm and snuggled and I think I would probably be slightly stressed if I had just won the lottery though five and the bonus would be nice !! (if anyone up there is listening)

Normal Service Resumed - Giveaway Winner

2010-12-07T03:24:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I havent been around for a week - lots of excuses - most of them really boring ones !!!!

It was my annual weekend away with my friends - we go every year - normally to the West End to see a show but this year we went away for TWO nights !!!!!

We are slowly building up each year - we might even manage three nights next year .....

This year we did a Christmas Markets tour to Cardiff and Bath - I loved Bath so much - I'd never been before and wish I could have stayed much longer.

Cardiff is nice but to be honest it felt a lot like Birmingham, I think I prefer places that look more historical - I realise that we only did the shopping areas and Cardiff has much more to offer - the Castle looked amazing so it may be revisited next year.

I did bump into JLS in WH Smith but unless your under 14 I guess its not that exciting !!!

Right my Giveaway Winner ..............

I used random number generator...........................

I put in the numbers ..........................

It churned.............

Numer 26 .........................

I counted carefully down the comments ..........

Bobo Bun

Congratulations......

Sorry there couldnt be more winners but I will be having another giveaway very soon - I've had 9819 visitors to my blog and will be doing another giveaway when it hits the magical 10,000 (I'm sure lots of these visits were accidental but never mind :) "

Will be back tomorrow with some pictures - thats if I find the camera !!!!!!

Presents and a finished project (yes really !!!)

2010-11-29T07:23:00.000-08:00

I was very lucky to win the giveaway at Amandas lovely blog - it arrived on Saturday and I was thrilled.

It is so beautiful, thank you so much Amanda - I will treasure it - I'm still trying to decide where it will be shown off to its fullest potential - I love the colours, how homely it looks and of course the beautiful message.

She was also very naughty and included some fabulous fabric, ribbon and buttons.

At last my crochet blanket is finished - I did a different edging to the pattern as I love the flower squares and I was worried that it would be "too frilly" - I think I like the red stripe, though I do keep looking at it and wondering if I should add something else.

Its quite a small blanket - almost cot size but Miss T and I have both used it over the weekend and as its so heavy it really does help keep the chill out.

We've lit the coal fire for the first time on Friday - I love how relaxed it makes me feel, I don't want to go out at all when the lounge looks so snuggly.

I probably wont be back now until Wednesday with my giveaway winner so if you haven't already entered there's still time

Dont forget to enter my giveaway

2010-11-28T07:50:00.000-08:00

Hello - just another post to say dont forget to enter my giveaway - Can't wait to find out who wins it XX

See post below for details

100th Follower Giveaway

2010-11-23T04:25:00.000-08:00

Here is my 100 followers giveaway celebration. A feast of red, white and blue sewing items all packed in a lovely vintage sewing box.

I think the Royal Wedding must be rubbing off on me with my patriotic colour scheme. I know I promised to be back on Sunday with my giveaway but I've felt so grotty with this bloomin lurgy that all I wanted to do was curl up on the sofa.

It gave me chance to think about what to giveaway and as I havent been out the house for over a week to the shops it involved a bit of creative thinking.

I didnt want you all to think I was just getting rid of some of my "junk" !

I decided on this vintage sewing box that I have had for a while - I do really like it but would love one of my bloggy friends to have it - I then decided to fill it with little treats.

Some are vintage bits and bobs from my collection including this toadstool darning mushroom, ric rac and embroidery stitches booklet.

Some wooden cotton reels, vintage pins, scissors and thimble.

Some lovely vintage buttons still on their cards.

I thought it would seem a bit impersonal without a little bit of "me" - I made these Union Jack sewing accessories a while back - pin cushion and needle case (with needles).

There are also a few little appliques - hearts, anchors and a few more.

I am in the process of setting up a little haberdashery business so have included some ribbons and buttons that I will be selling.

I hope you like everything that I've put together and I wish you all the best of luck.

You have until Tuesday 30th November to enter by leaving a commenton this post. I'm sorry but the sewing box is quite heavy so I will have to limit the main prize to UK only - however if you live overseas and would like to take part in the celebrations - leave me a post mentioning which country you are in and if you win I will send you lots of sewing items - ribbons buttons etc. I will still pick a UK winner for the sewing box kit.

Good Luck everyone and thanks for being a follower XX

Woop Woop

2010-11-20T06:27:00.001-08:00

Just checked in and noticed I have 100 followers - I'm so excited - I can't believe my musings are of interest at all so to reward all of you martyrs who read it I am off to sort out a wicked giveaway. I shall be back to post details and piccys tomorrow so pop round at some point.

Thanks peeps

XX

French Christmas Crafting

2010-11-18T02:58:00.000-08:00

We are all very grotty in this house (apart from hubby) - bad throats, heavy colds. Yesterday Miss T was on one sofa under blankets, Master T on the other sofa all snuggled up, didnt leave much room for me unfortunately.

Late afternoon the children went back up to their bedrooms so I managed to nab a place on the sofa and though I was feeling really sorry for myself I did manage to carry on with my crochet blanket.

I've finished all the squares now I just have to join them sll together - (I much prefer just making the squares)

As I havent got a "reveal" for you yet I thought I'd share another of my foreign crafting books.

This one is called "Noel Au Coin Du Feu" and is french. I do understand much more french than german so love buying french books.

The designs are a bit vintage in style and I love red and white colour schemes.

I know that this sack is designed for games but I think I would turn it into a Christmas Sack.

I love these little drawers - the structure is made up from cardboard and all the instructions are included - another project to add to the list.

This Noel sign is so simple but looks so beautiful - I was thinking to get it done quicker you could just do the letters and put them onto some coordinating fabric.

Well sorry its not a longer post but I dont want you to catch the dreaded lurgy . I'm hoping we will all feel much better tomorrow - I've got so much I want to get done.

There is some good news - I've won 2 giveaways this week and I really dont enter many at all !! Cant wait to share with you when they arrive. The dishwasher (touch wood) has started working again - the boiler that I told you was fixed on Saturdays post - started spurting water out just as I had finished telling you all that it was fixed, but the plumber came back out at 9am on Sunday and finally sorted it and the bedroom renovation project is still moving forward - my built in wardrobe is all constructed just ready for painting.

I'm still not sure it will be fully finished for Christmas but at least its getting there.

Christmas Craft Book

2010-11-13T09:44:00.001-08:00

Here is my new Christmas crafting book (one of them ssshhhhh).

I love foreign crafting books - I'm not bothered if I can't understand them as long as the pictures are inspirational.

If there is part of the project that I need to understand I just type it into Google translate.

This one is German. I use Amazon Germany and look in there craft section - once you have managed to find one craft book - it recommends others underneath (fatal !!!!)

I love this image - I just need to get hubby to build me a porch.

This wreath with its buttons on is amazing - it looks really easy to attempt so I may have a go.

This table setting is beautiful especially with my current toadstool addiction - I love red and white polka dots and normally use a red colour scheme at Christmas, so i may have a go.
There are loads more wonderful projects in it and if I don't make anything from it (which is more than likely with my 300 current projects on the go) I shall enjoy looking through it and feeling Christmassy.

On the home front - the boiler has just been fixed (yeah), we just paid the plumber (boo), the dishwasher that we thought had packed up this morning now seems to be ok (fingers crossed) and tonight I've got Chilli, crochet, Strictly, X factor and Take That to look forward to so all is good. XXX

Have a great Saturday night everyone

Thought I'd mention that if you did want to buy this book you can go onto Amazon UK and put the title in the search box and it then finds it for you- you can then order and still get super saver free delivery !!! I just go onto Amazon Germany to look through the German books to see which one I might like to order but if you order through that site you pay delivery.

Crochet Blanket

2010-11-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

I have almost completed enough squares for my blanket - I can't remember when I started it but I think it was around March - I was going to have it done in a month or at least by September to take on holiday with us - Holland in a caravan can be a little chilly in the mornings.

I have loved doing my little flowery squares - the hardest bit has been choosing the colour combinations and trying to make them look completely random. I suppose I wont really know if I have succeeded until they are all joined together.

There are two types of flower square - the rose ...........

and the daisy .........

The daisy squares have been quicker to do but I think I prefer the roses.

The pattern is in this brilliant book by Melody Griffiths - Crocheted Throws & Wraps.

There are 25 amazing designs and I am itching to get started on the next one.

I quite fancy doing this gingham blanket - I thought maybe red and white would make it a bit Christmassy (who am I kidding - it wont be finished until July !!!)

I really love the colours in this flower garden throw - though I do find it a little bit wierd to have uneven edges.

Well, I had better go and carry on - need to decide what to cook for tea, probably need to go out and buy what I need to cook for tea !!!, have a load of washing to put in, want to take some photos of our bedroom which we are in the process of renovating (we have been for 3 years) and then hopefully I'll get to do some crochet tonight in front of the TV - I have 18 squares left to complete but the first two rounds are completed on all of them so it shouldnt take too long.

I may do a couple of rose squares again as I've used a really bright green in them and it seems to be sticking out like a sore thumb when I place them all together - think I must have chose the wool in the electric light - or in the dark !!!

Life, dogs, health

2010-11-09T01:07:00.000-08:00

I have never had a dog before getting Scruffy in May. I had always wanted a dog when I was little but by the time I was born (14 years after my sister) I think my mom and dad had already had enough of pets and kids !!!

Then when we first got married we were both out at work full time, first baby takes up enough time, second baby within two years, moved house and so on ..........

Wanting a dog had got pushed so far back I had forgotten how much I wanted one - until February.

Its been a bit of a year, in February I found a lump - a huge lump, the GP rushed me through the system to a hospital appointment the next week. A week that felt like 6 months, the good news - the lump was a large cyst that was drained - the bad news was that during the mammogram and ultrasound they found another small lump that concerned them .

A biopsy was arranged, attended and 6 weeks after finding the lump the all clear was given - phew !!!

That six weeks was such an intense time of thoughts and fears, hope and strength. Most of the time I was confident that I would be fine but other times (especially in the dark in the early hours of the morning) the world seemed very very scary.

I've always had lots of plans and ideas for the future, things I want to do, places I want to go but none of these even crossed my mind when i thought of the future.

My biggest fear was obviously leaving hubby and not seeing the kids grow up - something I know a lot of people have to face but for me - too painful to even contemplate - but the only other thing that kept coming into my head was "I've always wanted a dog and I've never got to have one." I didnt realise how important to me it was, I must have buried the longing so deep that I had forgotten it.

I decided that "when" I was given the all clear it would be a priority. The kids were thrilled when we chose our puppy - a tibetan terrier. I'd met one at a cricket match and fell in love so I knew that if I did ever have a dog it would be one of these.

I love my doggy so much and cant believe he is nearly seven months old - when we contacted the breeder about the puppies we found out that they had been born on March 15th - the day before my birthday ! So we are both pisces (Do dogs have astological signs ???)

We have had our moments with him and we are still learning every day, but hes now such a big part of all our lives I wouldnt want to live without him.

I hope you dont mind me whittering on, I find it cathartic to write things down and I've been bottling things up - most of the family dont even know about it - I know I am so so lucky to have not had the dreaded C and I do feel blessed but I think that anything we experience thats so intense , even for such a short time, changes a part of us for ever.

I look at Scruffy and I see that we should all have and do what we want without delaying - we never know what is round the corner and we might be very very lucky like me or we might not ......

So today my bloggy buddies think of one thing that you have been putting off and take steps to make it happen - book that holiday, theatre tickets, flying lesson , cordon bleu cookery course . . .

I'm going to look for a holiday cottage to rent in the north east - I've always wanted to see Scarborough , Whitby etc so next March here we come (fingers crossed)

XX

Winner - Forties Giveaway

2010-11-05T05:26:00.000-07:00

November 5th already and the day to draw my giveaway. I stopped blogging for a year and seem to have lost a lot of my followers and lovely people that I used to share my comings and goings with.

Hopefully I will start to get my "friends" back soon and so decided to do a giveaway for you lovely people who are still around.

Miss T and I placed all the names into a little bowl .

With eyes closed she dipped in.

And pulled out a winner - Well Done Crafty Helen !!! I will parcel up the book and a few other bits and pieces and get them in the post for Monday. If you can get in touch please as I'm not sure how to get your details.

I will be sorting out another giveaway for Monday - so pop back - I really do need to create some space and I know lots of you love the same things as me so I cant think of better people to pass them on to.

Not sure what we are up tonight - think Miss and Master are off out with friends to bonfires, so looks like I'll be comforting the cats and dog whilst watching Emmerdale !! Might have a jacket potato - just so I feel like I'm joining in .

XX

Skip Diving

2010-11-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

I was reading the lovely Mels blog today and she was asking who had been skip diving ? The well known past time of rescuing someone elses rubbish and reusing.

We have so many things that others had thrown away - I do dread when hubby goes to the local tip because he has been known to come back with more than he took!!

One of our best bargains was from the scrap man - he was trundling down our crescent blowing his trumpet when Mr T looked out the window , turned to me and said "Quick !!! he has a great bed on there .

To cut a long story short we tracked him down a few streets away and after parting with £5 left with our new double bed - currently in Miss T's bedroom.

Please excuse the photo - not taken from a great angle as our bedrooms are not massive - I stood on the window seat with my bottom pressed up against the window to try and get far enough away to get the whole bed in the shot ! (luckily the bedroom faces onto the back garden ).

If you look carefully you can see one of the little end pieces missing off the frame - I havent quite worked out what to do about it yet.

I would love to hear of any bargains that you've had - Hubby did once bring me a teddy back that he had found on a car park - it was dirty , had a torn tummy and its head was half hanging off (by the way I think its important that I mention it was Valentines Day and he said this could be my present) - so hes not always brilliant at spotting stuff.............................

I wont repeat what I said to him as the children read my blog sometimes

XX

The Forties Giveaway

2010-11-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

I bought this book a while ago and have really enjoyed looking through it - however I have been having a bit of a book buying frenzy lately and need some room on my groaning shelves.

I know a lot of my bloggy friends absolutely love this era so I have decided to give it away.

Everyone who leaves a comment will be entered into the drawer on Bonfire Night and I will be throwing in lots of lovely surprises - Overseas bloggy buddies are more than welcome to enter.

I've only added a few images so as not to spoil the surprise but it really is a picture heavy vintage feast.

Got butternut squash soup planned for tonight so better get a wriggle on - speak soon and good luck XX

Digging Deep

2010-10-25T04:24:00.000-07:00

I've just been over at Coco Rose Textiles and she has a lovely post for today. Its a blog I visit often and always feel warmed by.
She has posted a list of questions for us all to have a play with and as I'm suffering with a bit of bloggers block since my return I thought it would be a fun thing to do - I find it sometimes helps with inspiration and direction to do a bit of soul searching - so here goes :

What age were you when you were at your most happiest?

I think I probably am at my happiest right now, I didnt really enjoy my teenage years, three of my grandparents died, two of my friends (one who committed suicide) and two acquaintances- both teenagers died suddenly all when I was between 13 and 16. I think it made me very nervous and edgy about life. I married at 20 and though it was a happy time it was also stressful, my husband had his own garage which meant he worked loads of hours and I hardly saw him, then when the two children came along within 2 years it increased my isolation for a while. My grandma was very ill and living with my mom so she had her hands full and with hubby out at work all the time I found it hard. This is starting to sound like an answer to When were you the unhappiest !!!!!!
Now, I'm approaching 40 - very quickly, have been married for almost twenty years, the children are happy and healthy, I think I have a much better focus on whats important in life - we downsized so that we have very little mortgage and finsihed the garage business so that we have a lot of time together as a family.This means hubby only works part time and because of my illness (not going to bore you with this one) I can stay at home - we home educate our 12 and 14 year old, have a gorgeous new doggy and two cuddly cats, our parents are still going strong and so I feel really blessed.

What is your most played song?
This is a really tough one as I go through phases - I love Michael Buble, The Black Eyed Peas, Elgar, Wham.................................
Think it may be the theme from an Officer and a Gentleman - love lift us up, or Theme from Armageddon by Aerosmith.

What is your most favourite food and least favourite food?

Most favourite food is Steak and Pepper sauce with mushrooms, tomatoes and least favourite - my dad used to love sheep brains - the smell of them cooking was disgusting - I used to rush up to my bedroom and put towels at the bottom of the door to stop any of the smell getting in - I never wanted to even attempt to eat them - oh they looked pretty disgusting as well !!

One regret?

That I didnt work harder on my French in school - I love France so much and their craft books and magazines are amazing - I would love to be able to read them properly. each year I'm getting a bit better - I did enrol at the local college for an adult learning class - I know I sound a bit ageist but I was the youngest there by a good twenty five years and after three weeks we had only learnt - Je suis retraite - which means I am retired !!!!!

Favourite tv programme or film?

I often say I dont watch much TV but then thinking of this answer I realised its probably much more than I thought. I love Masterchef (all versions), The Apprentice, Emmerdale, Mastermind, X factor, University Challenge, Strictly Come Dancing, Antiques Roadshow, Lie To Me and at the moment I'm loving Downton Abbey.

Ideal job?

I would love to be a buyer for a large store chain of all things Christmas - the thought of travelling the world looking for Christmas decorations would be amazing.

Favourite flower?

I love flowers that look happy - michelmas daisies, red geraniums, gerberas, daffodils, tulips - i think Chrysanths and some other flowers often look sad ( the men are here to take me back to the home and give me my medication now) My friends dont really get the happy / sad thing where flowers are concerned !!

I've really enjoyed doing this and it has certainly made me think - hope some of you do it too so i can be nosey.

Winter Cushions

2010-10-23T06:08:00.001-07:00

I love looking through interior magazines and books and seeing sofas piled high with coordinating cushions looking fab . They get four or five different designs to just sit together so well - How do they do it?

I really want a warm cosy look for the winter and so I'm thinking reds and creams but what else ??? I have got the two following cushion designs but I am struggling to decide what to put with them !!

The embroidered cushions are on sale at B&Q for £3 each, though I did get them a couple of weeks ago so I'm not sure how many they have left - though they are still showing them on their website. The red velvet ones (also from B&Q) are NEW in and are £9.95 each though this weekend all cushions are buy one get one free !!

In my previous post when I was going to attempt some mushroom based crafts - I did but I am not happy with them at all so back to the drawing board !!

Maybe I'll just stick to shopping :)

Mushrooms and Toadstools

2010-10-18T02:47:00.000-07:00

I have developed a bit of an addiction to mushrooms. Not to eat, just to look at. I think it started on our holidays back in September when we discovered these growing under a hedge.

They looked so beautiful, I was imagining little elves, pixies and fairies all dancing round.

I mentioned this to hubby who raised his eyes to the sky and said "yes dear" !!!

I've searched on google and found so many crafts using mushroom fabric, appliques, buttons and even crochet. I'm feeling really inspired so this afternoon I plan to make something - not quite sure what but I'm sure I'll figure it out.....

Looks like my 50 "on the go" projects may have to wait - again !!!!

Jamie Oliver - 30 minute meals

2010-10-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

I love cookery shows but hardly ever cook what has been demonstrated.

I'm really looking forward to Jamies new series tonight at 5.30 - 30 minute meals.

Apparently they are going to be really simple and he will be cooking them in more or less real time !!

Tonight is Piri Piri Chicken - I've never tried it before so it might be tea one night this week - I'm going to watch a few programmes before deciding whether to get the recipe book and wow the family.

Bet it still takes me about three hours !! Watch this space.............................................

Finished Project

2010-06-29T05:27:00.000-07:00

I have had a huge break from blogging but I am slowly getting back "into the groove".

I posted this picture - ages and ages ago asking for ideas of what I was planning to turn it into.

I dont think anyone guessed correctly - it was a bit tricky.

I eventually finished in the Christmas holidays - framing it the day before it was to be given as a first birthday present for my little great nephew.

I always work best to a near impossible deadline - I do it to myself nearly every project..... Why ???????

Anyway here is the grand reveal

I loved making this - I tend to stick to quite traditional images but loved the train - the little boy is 18 months now and loves tractors !!!!!! Oh well

Need to do another birth picture now for my other new nephew - any ideas ???

New Cath Kidston Book

2010-06-25T03:39:00.000-07:00

Just discovered this new book that comes out on 1st October. I used to do cross stitch and needlepoint years ago but think this may encourage me to revisit the old skills.

Tried to read what it says on the front cover and I think it announces that it comes with all the materials to make the purse featured on the cover.

I know we are having lovely weather at the moment but it does make me look forward to the autumn.

Hey ..... two posts in twelve months - think I am returning slowly.......

Scruffy the puppy is doing really well - cant believe how quick he is growing - our oldest cat seems to quite like him but the younger one is still a bit unsure.

We've never had a dog before so its a bit new to all of us - any advice on stopping him "mouthing" (polite term for biting gently) greatly received.

Hello again

2010-05-05T03:49:00.000-07:00

I know it is common in blog world to get "blog block" but do you think its ok to sneak back in to blogging when you've had a whole year of "blog block".

Its been a funny year in lots of ways but I can't tell you the countless times that I've seen something on a website, charity shop, normal shop and thought "my bloggy friends would love to know about that !"

So I guess what I'm asking is - "Can I come out to play again, please?"

By the way B&Q are selling off all Cath Kidston emulsion for a fiver a tin !!! They only do four colours - apple green, cream, red and a turqoise colour but what a bargain !!!!!

Oh and heres a photo of our new puppy that arrives on Friday XXX

Easter, swaps, thrifting and jobs to be done

2009-04-08T08:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter Everyone - I know its a little premature but as the children are on holiday it feels like its a good time to start celebrating.

I have started the Easter Tree by cutting some Lilac twigs and hanging my very sparse collection of eggs - though I am planning on making some more tonight whilst watching Project Runway and The Apprentice (I'm not addicted to reality TV really.....)

Yesterday afternoon the post van pulled up - hubby said what have you ordered now - truthfully nothing I said indignantly.

I was so excited when he knocked the door - it was my swap parcel from Lissy .

It was in a large box and all wrapped so beautifully, each packet individually with ribbons and embellishments. Sorry Lissy for not taking photos pre unwrapping but the excitement overtook me.

Here are my beautiful gifts including a book, dusters, choccies, ribbon, pencil, chicks, pegs... there were so many.

And this gorgeous mug - I am going to have a lovely cup of tea in it just after finishing this.

Thanks Lissy - I love my Easter Swap. XXXX

The time is nearly here as the T house descends into cricketing chaos.

Master T has been addicted to cricket since he was 6 so this is our 7th summer.

Last year he started to be selected for some of the adult teams at our club so some weeks we had four or five matches.
Hubby started to play and managed a couple of games at the end of the season before his Ham String went !!

Yesterday Master T wanted to go "to the nets" to practice as its less than 2 weeks before the season starts - luckily there is a lovely town close to the club with 5 charity shops - so Miss T, her friend and I spent a lovely afternoon perusing.

I was thrilled to find this lovely Granny Square crochet blanket - my photo really doesn't do it justice - the colours are wonderful and it is quite heavy so will be really cosy.

I think the green and red make it look so "gypsy" - I have asked Hubby if he will make me my very own gypsy caravan for it to go in........

I checked the price and couldn't believe it was just 50p.

Anyway, must get on - need to make more decorations for Easter Tree, Miss T is coming back from her friends soon and Master T now not feeling well and lying on sofa.

We picked up a pair of these chairs just before Christmas from a local junk shop and I am determined that before the end of the holidays they will be white and have a seat pad - so off to find the flatting paper.

Speak to you all soon and have a great Easter - DON'T go easy on the chocolate - there you have permission to go mad.

Its A Beautiful Day - for washing a toad ????

2009-04-05T07:49:00.001-07:00

Its a gorgeous day here although the week has been not so gorgeous. Miss T has had tonsillitis and though she doesn't get it often - when she does its a nasty bout.

She didn't move from the sofa for two days - which is a miracle as she is normally such a busy little bee - it was horrible to see her so poorly.

She was so sick and had a nosebleed at the same time - which made for an interesting dilemma when it came to the big clean up - I didn't know which to tackle first.

Yesterday she was much brighter but still not physically active so it was great to see her venture out in the garden today.

She went to see the rabbits as she had missed them and wanted to give them a love.

After about 15 minutes I was surprised that she hadnt come back in and went to see if she was ok.

We turned the old coal house into a utility room and as I went out the back door I could see that the light was on in there - so I popped my head round the door.

Are you ok??

Yes mom.

What are you doing?

Washing a toad.

Ok - whaaattt? did you say washing a toad?

Yes it was dirty.......

I guess she is feeling much better......

Holiday 2009

2009-03-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

I've been away from blogging for a while and really have no excuse other than I dont knw where the days keep disappearing.
Whilst I've been gone lots of things have happened.

I had my **th birthday - lovely day out with pub lunch and auction browse and I bought a Retro Roberts Radio that I've been wanting for about five years with my birthday money.

Mothers day - a gorgeous necklace chosen by Miss T and breakfast in bed from Master T.

A couple of trips into village but no great finds in charity shops, food shopping, cooking, cleaning , lots of ebaying...........................

And we've booked Holiday 2009 - we thought we probably wouldnt get away this year but after hearing lots of tragic stories - we decided to make the most of our time here and not keep putting things off. The children are growing so quickly - I know we probably only have a few more years when they will want to come with us.

We normally go with Canvas - they are like Eurocamp but we find them much cheaper.

We are going to France - the Loire and two sites not far from Paris then travelling up through Belgium to get to Holland. We are having three weeks in total, have upgraded the mobile home to their third option and booked the overnight ferry from Rotterdam with a cabin so we can get some sleep. Wow expensive I hear you mutter..... Now for the good bit. For the four of us, including all upgrades and ferries it is going to cost:

678 pound !!!!

We had thought about going on a narrowboat holiday for a week in this country but the cheapest we could get one in June was over 800.
These are some picture of the sites we are visiting - would be great if some of you could come too.

Shopping Tip - Oilcloth 6.99 metre

2009-03-18T15:20:00.001-07:00

I have just been reading about Silkie Sues bargain oilcloth in a shop in Bristol and told her about our local shop that I'm off to have a look round tomorrow.

I know a lot of you will have heard of Dunelm - they are really common up here in the Midlands but I know they are fairly sporadic in the south.

I went on to their website to check out the price of the oilcloth that I want to buy and found that they have started online shopping !!!

Their oilcloth is amazing - there is a choice of 5 colours in the polka dot and its only 6.99 a metre - bit different to CK.

They also do other amazing fabrics and home accessories so pop over and have a look.

I'm not on commission- honest !

Good Things, Not so good things

2009-03-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

Just popped in to catch up with you all. It took me an hour to read through all the blogs I follow so forgive me if I haven't left many comments.

This is my new bag that I had last week. About a month ago we went to our local auction house to have a look at their items for the next sale.

Hubby who loves fishing has been wanting some polarised sunglasses for ages and called me over to look at a box full of sunglasses in which he had found one pair of polarised.

They were the same glasses he had seen for 15 pounds.

We couldn't attend the auction so we well actually he - left a commission bid of a tenner - the lady said we would be notified by the end of the week if we had been successful.

The week came and went and hubby was disappointed not to win. A couple of days ago we had an invoice through the post from the auction house to say we owed them four pounds plus commission & vat - another 88p for said box of sunglasses.

Apparently they had overlooked notifying us - I'm not really surprised - its hardly worth the phone call for that price is it?

We had to dash to get them with hubby in a great state of excitement. He went in and fetched the box and we sat in the car looking through our treasure.

We had his polarised glasses, about ten pairs of Posh Spice glasses which Miss T has distributed amongst her friends, a Disney Cars Bag (brand new in packaging), about ten pairs of Bob The Builder glasses, Bratz and Disney Princess glasses, folding storage containers, two toiletry bags, several joke shop items, dog collar - all still brand new - and then the treasure at the bottom - this lovely Union Jack bag still tagged from Accessorize !!!! Was I a happy girl.

So the moral of the story is just cause it says its a box of sunglasses it doesn't mean there aren't treasures lurking. We are off to browse the auction again tomorrow and I will be the one emptying the contents of boxes onto the floor to see just what is in there !!

I've managed to fit a little bit of crafting in - I made this Union Jack pin cushion with matching needle case and this flower needle case.

I'm not sure which I prefer - they are for an upcoming project that I have on the go.

That the good things taken care of. The not so good was when hubby went to feed his girls this morning (our 6 chickens) one of the Bantys called Violet was dead in the nesting box.
They are only four so it was a bit of a shock especially as she had shown no signs of ill health.
Hubby managed to bury her before he got upset, Master T had a little weep but Miss T was inconsolable tonight.

Its the first time she has experienced death - luckily we haven't lost any relatives since she has been old enough to understand and this is the first pet death.
She loves animals and used to sit on her swing with the chicken on her lap going back and forth - all the chickens seem to really enjoy it.
I talked to her about the happy life she had as a free range chicken and that at least she died peacefully in her sleep.

I've thought about suggesting she paint a pebble to use as a little marker of the grave - maybe with some flowers or Violet on. She is ten and I remember that it was around this age that I became aware of death and was terrified of going to sleep - I don't want it to turn into the same nightmare for her.

Any thoughts or ideas gratefully received.

To end on a happier note - I am so looking forward to checking out the auction tomorrow - hopefully there might be some good lots - its really only bric a brac - but that's what I love.

Well bric a brac, biscuits, George Clooney, buttons, magazines .................

25 Things I Love

2009-03-05T05:48:00.000-08:00

Just read Little Gems post and thought I would join in. When I first found out about my EDS I read Sarah Ban Breathnachs gratitude journal and she suggested making a list of your favourite pastimes so that when you feel a bit down you can look at it and do one of them.

Sometimes when you feel low it is so difficult to think about what you could do. So here I go :

1. Browsing charity shops
2. Making fairy cakes and letting Miss T go wild with the decorations
3. Dark nights and getting changed into PJs straight after tea
4. Hubbys lovely cups of tea - with a biscuit usually ginger
5. Any sandwich made by my mum - they always taste better than mine
6. Watching a brilliant film
7. Buying a new magazine
8. Playing Mah Jong on the PC
9. Blogging
10. Receiving a parcel or packet
11. Watching cricket (I know I'm a strange girl)
12. Quiz Nights
13. Emmerdale - I dont watch any other soap but love Emmerdale
14. Freshly washed hair
15. Smell of fabric softener from clothes airing
16. Libraries
17. Sewing bits and bobs, buttons, ribbons etc
18. Books, books, books - historical fiction, crafts, interiors
19. Browsing ebay and getting a bargain
20. Cola bottles or Haribo
21. Old embroidered tablecloths
22. Spring flowers but not purple ones
23. The childrens laughs and sense of humours - they crack me up
24. Cuddles or snuggles as we call them
25. France

The list has just made me realise that there is so much I love 0 i think I could have carried on and on.

Just off to have my cup of tea (with gingernuts of course), browse ebay and then sort out my sewing basket. What a great day !!!

Blogging Parcels and Presents, Fishing and Cooking

2009-03-04T04:36:00.000-08:00

I know its a bit of a bizarre title but I tend to save things up and then want to tell you everything.

When the postman knocked this morning instead of just pushing the bills through I started to get excited.

My first parcel I opened was from the lovely Sara from All About Eden. Remember when I asked if anyone had a dorcas pin tin that they would be willing to swap ?? Sara got in touch and kindly found one for me - I am so thrilled, it has gone straight into my CK sewing box before anyone else nabs it.

I also ordered two of her wonderful inspiration packs and boy are they inspirational. They are lovely - beautiful fabrics, with crochet trims, ric rac, buttons - oooooh I'm itching to get started. Thanks Sara - she also popped me a couple of naughty treats in.

My next parcel was from Lisa at Knitty, Vintage & Rosy - she is all the way in Canada and sent me this lovely swap parcel. We organised our own little swap and these are my beautiful goodies. Canadian Home & Country magazine which I am saving for this afternoon when I have changed all the beds. A beautiful embroidered hanky and gorgeous embroidered pillowcase.

I have been a lucky girl today. Blogging and my blogger friends are amazing, I feel very blessed.

The weekend was as busy as I expected so today and yesterday we have been working hard.

As some of you know we home school our 12 yr old and will be home schooling our daughter when she leaves yr 6 in July.

Today Master T has been working on algebra - he is amazing

which is just as well as Maths was probably one of my worst subjects. We still have to figure out number sequences - finding the nth term !!

He asked if he might make some lunch, so off he trotted into the kitchen and this is what he made.

I know it is just a plate of scrambled eggs and toast, but he had done it without any help - he watched me do it the other day - and carried it in so proudly.

I'm hoping that home educating is helping him grow not just academically and its moments like this that help to reassure me.

The boys in the house love fishing and they went off on a fishing trip on Friday.

Hubby had bought some vintage floats off ebay (i do encourage this as it makes my purchases easier to justify !) and was anxious to test them out.

I received a text whilst out with my friend to tell me about the "amazing" bream that hubby had just caught.

Master T normally catches the most fish so Hubby was especially pleased.

When they picked me up they were anxious to get home to load the photos on to the PC so that we could all have a better look at their triumphs off the day.

Master T seemed especially excited about me looking at his amazing catch of the day.

I waited for the photos to load trying to guess what I would be seeing - they did once catch a huge pike that was a national newspapers fish of the week - winning them an expensive fishing reel.

The anticipation was building, the comnputer churned, the photos loaded. I clicked to view the slideshow.............

At this point they fell about laughing - apparently this cheeky little fish decided to take on a worm that was actually bigger than him.

Considering my son is 12 you can see how big this plucky little guy was.

I think he's kind of cute.

Bowls for ?????

2009-02-26T11:35:00.000-08:00

I can't believe its been over a week since my last blog entry. I think with the children being off last week the time flew by.

We didn't really do much apart from Friday when we had a trip to Yorkshire including Haworth (because I love the Brontes).

This week so far has been catching up with jobs and watching and today is the first day that I've been out.

It was a quick trip into the local village where I found these lovely bowls in Help The Aged. I paid 3 pounds for the 6 but I dont really know what to use them for.
They are metal but it doesn't look like stainless so I'm not sure about putting anything edible in them but I couldn't leave them behind because of the beautiful colours. I think they remind me of narrowboat decoration.

So, any suggestions of what to use them for will be gratefully received.

I'm off to Trentham Gardens with my friend tomorrow for a girlie day. There are lovely little shops in chalets and the Garden centre has a fabulous section for the home and a brilliant restaurant.

Saturday Miss T has asked if I will take her and her best friend shopping on the bus and Master T has his first indoor cricket match of the season on Saturday night. Its against the team who knocked them out of the tournament last year so fingers crossed.

Will try and post on Sunday - it should be quieter - that is apart from cooking the dinner, washing, ironing, dusting, hoovering etc etc etc

Thrifting Bargains And Leaving Home

2009-02-17T14:22:00.000-08:00

I have had these a few days since I last went thrifting in the village. I had taken my CK blue Ottoman rose Tesco shopper and was amazed to find this lovely crochet throw in exactly the same colours.

I have a new mission now when thrifting - I can only buy colour co-ordinating articles !! (yeah right)

I picked up these books as well and I had still only spent 4 pounds.

I'm hoping to get chance to pop in again tomorrow as Wednesday is bric a brac market and last week there was a lovely blue and white jug that I have kicked myself all week about not buying.

For some reason I feel a bit flat today and a bit of a mooch might be all thats needed to lighten the spirits.

I sometimes get "the flats" for no obvious reason - maybe its my age.

We had a big event yesterday - if you know about Colin - our baby dove that Master T rescued, you will remember that he seemed to picking up his strength daily and had started to practice flying.

Over the weekend his practice flying became - nesting on my dresser then dive bombing at my head whilst I try to work on the computer !! My husband made him a mini aviary by putting a cover over the top of the kids trampoline and enclosure - so he could practice his flying and get used to outdoors. We did this for a couple of hours each day - bringing him back inside for his meals and safety at night.
Yesterday we did the same and Colin took the opportunity to fly off to pastures new. I hope this means he is well and strong and that we did a good job. I've worried since that hes remembering to eat and staying safe - I suppose this is what it will be like when the kids leave home.
Hubby says he will still build the dovecote in case Colin wants to return for a holiday.

Thanks again for all your good wishes for Colin - I'm sure all the positive thoughts helped him to recover.

Valentines Day

2009-02-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day Everyone

I've managed to find time to get to the computer as Hubby has taken Master T to his cricket training.

He bought me this beautiful Victorian Pin / Trinket Tin - its so lovely.

Thats Cupid in the middle and the one cherub is passing a ring to the other. Around the sides are alternate dragonflies and roses.

Dragonflies, or damselflies, were connected to Freya the Norse goddess of love, fertility and warfare.
The paired bodies of mating dragonflies form the shape of a heart, perhaps being the source for that modern symbol of love.

It still has the old fabric in the lid of the box. I have wondered if it is a betrothal box and would have held a ring?

If anyone knows anything about these I would love to be enlightened.

I'm going to curl up in front of the telly now and eat my lovely chocolates that I had in my Valentines swop.

Colin is still doing ok - well really well - he is practising his flying quite a lot and is getting bigger hourly !!

Help please !! Ebay Bargains and \Baby Dove Update

2009-02-13T10:01:00.000-08:00

I am starting with a plea to all my bloggy friends and viewers. Does anyone know of one of these tins or where I could get one? My mom and nan used to have one with their pins in when I was little and I am desperate to have one for in my sewing box.
I know it may seem a bit strange but I love things that remind me of people and cant believe that they threw theirs away. If anyone does have one I am willing to send my Cath Kidston pin tin as a swap. I am not too bothered about it being perfect - just not badly damaged. Here's hoping someone can help.....

Here is another couple of my eBay purchases. There is more but I cant find what file I put the photos in so will have to take them again.

I love this little workbox tin - anemones are some of favourite flowers and I have a bit of a tin habit so I just couldn't let it go to someone Else's house - could I ?

I love that it still had some of the old sewing items in it - I always like to imagine who used it and what for ? What did they make?

I know there is not a lot inside but it still feeds my heart to look through and fell that I have saved them.

I also bought another old box with sewing things in - the box was awful and on its last legs but the sewing stuff in it looked great.

Unfortunately when the seller sent it he had
taken a lot out despite advertising it with contents and showing numerous photos - so I was not a happy bunny - he is the worst seller I have come across in five years and it doesn't look like I am going to get him to send the missing items.

I also bought these old silks , still in their boxes. I don't know if I will ever be able to use them - I just like looking at them.

COLIN UPDATE: Colin is still doing well - we have started his supplement for his rubbery beak and it seems much better. He is starting to show an interest in pecking at some seeds - so hopefully we will be able to wean him soon and he is practising little flights regularly. Thanks so much for all your good wishes and kind thoughts for Colin - I am convinced that the energy created has helped him recover so far.

I remember reading about an experiment where heart patients were prayed for and their recovery was much quicker that those that weren't so maybe the blog has helped my little baby dove.

Can you pray for my husband to like ironing ????

Prezzies, swaps and Baby Dove

2009-02-11T07:09:00.000-08:00

I am having a really great week - yes I've got bills to pay, washing to do, beds to change etc etc but I am being distracted from the horrible by the loveliness of Blogland

My Valentine swap has arrived from the lovely Joanne at Little Patch Of Heaven. I was a little concerned when I first was given my swap partner by the wonderful Mrs Thrifty as Joanne used to be called Tatty Mum.

I did wonder what I would be getting through the post !! But she couldn't be called anything better now as this parcel really was my "Little Patch Of
Heaven"

I have taken photos of all my items but cant work out how to get more than 5 on !!

I had these amazing bag with a beautiful heart - it is so wonderfully made - all fully lined.

The heart hanger is gorgeous and the little heart pegs made me jump up and down like I'd had too much coca cola.

This great wall hanging - I've just got to decide
where it will be shown off to its best advantage.

There were another two packets as well. A gorgeous tissue holder and heart keyring and some lovely chocolate hearts (which I've hidden) and some love heart sweeties.

Joanne if you're reading this - thank you so much from the bottom of my heart - this really is the best Valentines ever.

I also found out last week that I had won Michelle
from Cowboys and Custard giveaway for the funniest story.

I wont bore you with the details but you can go to Michelle's blog and read it in her comments - basically it was about my very first roast dinner that I cooked as a newly wed.

I could probably win a funny story competition for most of my cooking efforts !

Michelle has sent me some beautiful things - if only I had known 18 years ago as I sat sobbing on the kitchen step that what had just happened
would mean that I would receive a lovely present in the future perhaps I wouldn't have been so disheartened.

The toadstool pins are great and are now pushed into my computer desk wall (will have to show you some time) - the mirror (with the strawberry print) is in my handbag, the heart keyring attached to my keys, the love tag hanging by my computer and the ribbon squirreled away for the future. I have yet to decide on the lucky recipient of the card.
Thank - you Michelle so much.

I will try and get round to my eBay bargains tomorrow - I think they have all nearly arrived now.

For all of you who have sent Colin your best wishes - if you don't know about Colin our baby dove - I blogged about him here

He is doing really well - he is hopping about the dining room and starting to try and lift himself into the air.

He is feeding really well - still through the syringe but we are trying to get him to take some seed.

His beak is very rubbery and we have learnt that this can be calcium deficiency - apparently common in winter babies so he is now having added calcium.

My main concern now is that he will struggle when released but I was reading a blog yesterday about someone who had hand reared a dove - last year he nested in their arbour and has had a family of his own - I really hope that this happens for Colin.

Hubby is going to build him a dovecote so if anyone has experience of this or knows of any plans we would be really grateful.

Tea Towels, Sewing Box and Crochet

2009-02-08T08:51:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to show you my new tea towels from our local discount shop. They were only 1.99 for three and I thought they looked a little CK ish.

Two of them are towelling but the trellis one is a lovely heavy weave - I suppose its a glass towel.

I'm just not sure if I can bring myself to use them as they are so lovely.

The crochet leaflets and books are some of my ebay purchases - I think it
was 99p for all the leaflets and 79p for the book. I've had a good look through but I think they are a little out of my league at the moment.

I must still plod on with my granny squares - I can do them now whilst watching tv with only the odd mistake. Did I say "watching tv" - I think I meant listening to the tv !!!

This sewing box was on my Christmas list from Boots - it is from the range that Country Living do for them but I decided to get my Cath Kidston one instead.

I saw this on ebay but the picture and description wasn't very good so I ended up only paying 4.50 - Miss T is having it as her sewing box and we are going to make some things together.

I love the little kit that comes inside it.

For those of you who read my blog yesterday about Colin our baby Collared Dove - he made it through the night and seems much stronger today.

He is feeding well and has come out of his box and his hopping round the dining room floor.

He doesn't have his tail feathers yet so cant fly - they look like sticks with a small feather stuck on the end - so I guess we will be looking after him a while longer.
We did prepare the kids for the worst last night as they often die within 24 hours and we didn't want it to come as a shock to them.

I know lots of people believe you should not take them in but I would rather him have a peaceful warm safe death than be mauled by a cat.

At the moment its looking like we might have a happy ending so fingers crossed.

Be back tomorrow with some more ebay bargains - I did go a bit mad !!

Cast Iron Fireplace and A New Addition

2009-02-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

We battled through some snow storms yesterday to go and pick up our "ebay" fireplace. I did wonder at one point if we should abandon the idea as the weather seemed to be getting worse.

We carried on as we were not too far away and put our new bedroom fireplace in the car to take home - I think the fireplace would be quite pleased as it was living in a cold shed !!

I'm really pleased with it and it already looks at home propped up against the bedroom wall. It will need some flatting and painting - but I'm already planning the garland for Christmas to make the bedroom look festive.

I think we are more or less ready to start the bedroom renovation now - it is the last room to do and still has the "old ladys" carpet and curtains.

Hubby has some adjustments to the wall and chimney breast to make - we have an original built in cupboard in there but it is so narrow that its not really that practical, so by bringing the wall out we will be able to use it as a wardrobe - saving on space and money as we have yet to buy one. At our old house we had built in and have been using the one that was left in the house when we moved in.

Now meet the new addition to the family - Colin the Collared Dove !
Master T and his friend were playing out this morning when they found Colin sheltering under a bush - he is a juvenile as his tail feathers havent grown in and he was not moving and very shocked.

They bought him home and we have warmed him up with his very own marathon style foil blanket, in a box of paper shreddings sat just underneath the radiator.
We have been feeding him mushed bread and egg through a syringe every couple of hours and he will now stand on our fingers and spread his wings. He really smacked his mouth (or is that beak) at his last meal and seems to be coming back to life hourly.

I'm not really sure where this will leave us or Colin so if anyone has any experience about how to help him - it would be gratefully received.

I did search the internet where someone had asked how to help a baby pigeon but the reply was - Start making the pastry !!!!

So at the last count we now have 2 cats, 2 rabbits, 2 kids, 6 chickens and a baby dove. The kids are always bringing back waifs and strays - last year we had a bird, a mouse and even a dog.

Will post about ebay bargains tomorrow between Colins feeds !!

Charity Shop and Giveaway Win - Yippee

2009-02-05T08:45:00.000-08:00

Wednesday turned out to be lovely - we went to school to watch Miss T's class assembly - that will be her last one as she leaves primary school in July and then starts her Home Ed with her big brother.

Hubby dashed off into work as soon as we returned home and left Master T and myself trying to figure out "reciprocal numbers"...........

At lunch time we normally call it a day with the hard learning and decided to get the bus into our local village.

We have three charity shops in one small street, which is fabulous - but as you all know sometimes they're good and sometimes they're not. Yesterday was a GOOD day.

Master T was quick to spot Crocheting For Dummies - I did wonder whether to be offended or touched - his smirk said it all !!!

Also from that shop, I had a great handicrafts book, a lovely red and white tin and a double size vintage candy striped sheet. The next shop was not that good but Master T found a World War 2 book to read. Finally in the last shop I found this Moms Organiser - I had it on my Amazon Wishlist on the run up to Christmas but deleted it in the interests of my budget - 9.99 couldn't be justified when I could use a freebie out of one of my many magazines. I was thrilled to see it still in its cellophane with all the stickers - I'm going to have so much fun.

We returned home and on opening the door there was a lovely parcel waiting. I was so excited I don't think I even took my coat off before tearing open the packaging.

I didn't realise it was my giveaway prize - I thought it was one of my ebay purchases so I apologise for there not being a photo of its lovely pink wrapping paper.

It was my THIRD place prize giveaway from Silkie Sue - I can only imagine that FIRST prize must have been a cottage in the country.

Silkie Sue had been so generous - a lovely CK bag, two delicate handkerchiefs,a CK soap, a beautiful blue and white jug painting and it was wrapped with beautiful pink paper and blue gingham ribbon.
I was soooooo excited I think Master T thought I was having a fit of madness. I'm sorry that my photo of the painting is pants - I really must get on a photography course soon.

The painting has taken pride of place on my shelving in the kitchen - in homage to my blue and white collection (you may have to click on photo to see better and hubby took this one so maybe it is the camera that's pants !!!)

Thanks so much Silkie you made my day.

The shelves were 3 pounds from a local recycle centre 4 years ago and the handles 50p for two from Ikea at about the same time.

Will be back tomorrow after fetching fireplace as ebay bargains have started to arrive - luckily hubby taking it quite well at the moment - I think he's on his best behaviour because he wants some new fishing gear !! Better make the most of it might pop over to ebay now............

Crochet - First Granny Squares

2009-02-03T04:36:00.000-08:00

I started to learn to crochet just after Christmas and started a blanket - just stripe after stripe , after a few weeks I realised I was putting off carrying on with it as it had become monotonous.

After looking at other blogs I decided to try Granny Squares - It has taken me two weeks of trying and failing and trying and failing - I was just about to throw the whole lot through the window when it started to come together.

Here are my new squares and one part started for "The Blanket - Part Deux".

I hope they join together ok as they look a bit wobbly but thats a challenge for the future - I really look forward to my crochet now each night as I watch TV.

Anyway must go - I have to list some of our old things on ebay as I have blown the budget a bit this week !!!

We've bought an old cast iron fireplace for our bedroom and have to fetch that on Friday - I've bought some crochet patterns, workbox tin, old sewing box filled with sewing stuff and a new sewing box - none of which has been delivered yet.

I'm hoping they come tomorrow when Hubby is at work !!!

Will show you them when they arrive - but of course "I've had them for ages !!!"

Lovely Laura Ashley Bargains

2009-02-01T07:39:00.000-08:00

As promised yesterday - here are my Laura Ashley bargains.

We popped out on Friday into a nearby town, mainly to look in TK Maxx but they have a Laura Ashley right by it so of course I couldnt pass by.

I wandered round looking for bargains as with my budget LA normal prices are out of the question.

At the back of the store was a blue plastic bin so of course I had to have a look.

It was full of lots of pieces of fabric that had been detached from one of their sample books, with a sign on the box saying 50p each !!

I ransacked the box for all the best ones - I think I only left three behind.

My camera does not really show up the colours that great but I have loads of really nice pieces.

They are all about a metre by 60cm.

Lovely polka dots, ginghams, florals, checks......

Even some oilcloth !!!

I just have to decide what to do with it now - I only spent nine pounds so I dont think thats bad at all - though the budget is not going too well - have bought antique fireplace for bedroom renovation and workbox tin so far this week.

Awards, Thank you, and a hint of a Laura Ashley Bargain !

2009-01-31T06:06:00.000-08:00

I have been so lucky to meet so many new friends since I started my blog.

I cant believe it has only been a couple of months since I first began - I am still learning so much.

I still dont know how to put pictures in my sidebar and I would love to have my text in the middle and pictures on both sides !!!

Over the last couple of weeks I have been given some awards and Ludabelle kindly gave me a lot yesterday that she had received.

I am supposed to pass them on but as I am the newbie on the block I know that so many of you already have them and with time being precious to you all - I know that thought it is so lovely to know that you have been thought off it can give you a guilt trip about not replying.

So to all my lovely friends please if you havent got one of these - please consider yourself tagged with an award.

Thanks again to everyone who has sent me an award.

I will be posting tomorrow about my lovely Laura Ashley bargains !!!!

I'm just off to sort and iron them - thats a big clue.

Cath Kidston New Range !!! Yippee

2009-01-29T10:56:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post girlies to let you know I've been on CK website and its new with the new range !!!!

Can't post any more got to browse

See you tomorrow - here goes the budgeting....................

Message For Everyone Having A Tough Time

2009-01-24T08:48:00.000-08:00

I rescued this picture from up the loft today. I had thought about it lots since reading so many of your blogs where times are hard - with illness, finances, redundancies etc.

My Nan bought me this when we first got married and it hung in my kitchen for 13 years until we moved - it is so faded and steam damaged but I couldn't bring myself to throw it away.

My Nan died 8 years ago and I still miss her every day as she was a "rock" - I think that generation who had bought kids up during the war whilst husbands were missing all tend to be the same.

Anyway - back to the reason for posting it - its called Don't Quit and because its so faded I'll repeat it here.

Don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are ow, but the debts are high
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit
Rest if you must, but don't you quit
Life is queer with its twists and turns
As everyone of us, sometimes learns

And many a failure turns about,
When he might have won, had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow,
You may succeed with another blow.

Success is failure turned inside out,
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt
And you never know how close you are
It may be near, though it seems so far

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit,
It's when things seem worse, that you must not quit.

I hope you like it, feel free to use it - it doesn't give any copyright or an author - I've always planned to turn it into an embroidery or sampler of some sort.

Hope it helps get you all through.

Sara
XX

Fabric, Crochet, Budgeting

2009-01-23T12:07:00.000-08:00

These lovely new fabrics arrived today. It is a seller on eBay that I hadn't used before but she is reasonable and posted first class next day - which is brilliant as I get very over excited whenever I order anything.

Ive got no idea what I am going to use them for but loved the Shabby Chic roses - it reminded me of CK.

I know a lot of you lovely bloggy people have been considering learning crochet and asking which books are best.

I have started teaching myself since Christmas and though I found the set from Hobbycraft useful (see earlier blogs) I received this a few days ago and its brilliant.

It is so simply laid out and has simple items in as well.

I bought this with a Ladybird Knots book for 99p. They came as a pair and I was going to re list the knots book but the boys have found lots of fishing knots in there so it has been hidden away with the fishing books.

I decided to sit down today and do a budget planner - its something I have avoided for about - well - all my life !!

I have included everything and was surprised to find that someone has obviously been stealing my money as I should have a bit left every month. It couldn't possibly be my crafting,charity shops, antiques markets, magazine, fabric, book, wool and button habit - could it?

I am really going to try and be a very good girl from now on - I am allowing 130 pound a week for food, kids activities, petrol and other expenses and if I have any left I am going to spend half and save half . That's the theory...

SO I will maybe blog about it as I try to stick to it - it sounds achievable - doesn't it?

I am going to start a savings jar for my Kitchen Aid Mixer - I have had one on my Amazon wish list for four years and I'm determined I'm going to have one this year.

Its my birthday in March, so I am going to ask for money and I have a load of books to sell on eBay - I might create one of those thermometer thingies that they have in churches for the roof fund.

Any ideas for fundraising ??

New Books - Green Crafts For Children and more

2009-01-22T08:28:00.000-08:00

My new book arrived off Ebay today. Ellie and I saw this in Hobbycraft on Christmas Eve but couldnt really afford to get it so I've been looking out for it on ebay ever since.

There are some great projects in there and it has inspired me so I dont think its just for children.

Also whats really great for us lot is there is a lot of CK used in the styling of the photos.

This project is about making puppets out of old t shirts.

You can get Jersey T shirts so cheap in charity shops so I will be looking out for some in great designs - I only normally buy cotton to use in my projects and have left some great t shirts on the rack.

I love these fairy pictures - notice the CK star fabric on the lamp - lovely - might just have to paint a lamp base red after seeing this picture.

I love these beautiful pebble stones - can't help thinking that they look a lot like CK cottage.

Andrew took the kids out for a bracing walk over the Christmas hols and said it was ok till Ellie started filling the rucksack with all the great pebbles she found ready to complete these.

It was this picture that we really loved when we looked at the book on Christmas Eve.

I'll post some pictures of our crafts - I'm hoping we might get chance to do some together on Saturday if the boys go fishing.

Also decided to pop to Laura Ashley this morning as we put red gingham under the glass on our coffee table for Christmas to make it look more festive - I've kept it for a while but it does look a bit out of place so I decided to get some of the natural to replace it with.

Whilst at the checkout I noticed the new catalogue is out !! Yippee

I love to look through the catalogue and dream about what I would have if I won the lottery - they have some great new fabrics and a beautiful new rose bedding that is very Cath Kidston.

I'm off now to have a really good look through my new books !!

Thanks for all your comments on the last post - my blue project is coming on nicely but it isnt quite ready for its catwalk just yet.

Shabby Chic Bargain and Applique Project

2009-01-15T12:04:00.000-08:00

Went thrifting today but didnt get any vintage finds - thats the way it goes sometimes - a bit disappointing but not for my cupboards and shelves which are already groaning.

I love to buy old clothes from Charity Shops for doing my applique and this little lot (including a couple of fat quarters and some felt ) is for my next project.

Can you guess what it is yet ????

The blue chambray shirt is an extra large mens and was only a pound - and it has about 12 lovely buttons on it - what a bargain.

I'm going to be working on the design over the next couple of days so will show you an updated picture as I progress.

I wanted to show you my Shabby Chic bargain from yesterday.

My daughter (aged 10) has more jewellery than Claires but her necklaces keep getting tangled.

I had been looking out for some nice hooks to put on the wall by her mirror so that they can hang straight.

I had seen these hooks in BHS over the winter but with Christmas coming couldn't really justify the ten pounds on something that could wait.

Yesterday as we walked through to the escalator I glanced at the sale table and saw these reduced to 3.40 and was I pleased - even more so when I took them to the checkout and they scanned at 2.20 !!!!

Just need to get hubby to raise her mirror (she has really shot up this last year) and then put the hooks underneath it. Hopefully will post picture when done.

Got loads to do tomorrow so just off to make a list !!!

Lovely Friends

2009-01-14T12:51:00.000-08:00

Today I was tagged by Nicky at Hollypops

So this is what I have to do:-

1) Link to the person who tags you

2) Post the rules on your blog

3) Write 6 random things about yourself

4) Tag 6 people at the end of the post and link to them

5) Let each person know they have been tagged.

6 Random things about me....

Right here goes:

The six random things about me are:

1. I once wrote to Jim'll Fix It to sing with Fiddlers Dram ( they sang didn't we have a lovely time the day we went to Bangor) !!!

2. I have a really bad phobia of snakes or anything that resembles snake skin.

3. I once bunked off school to go to the local radio station to meet Nick Kamen - he of Levi Launderette commercial

4. I have a warped sense of humour and my husband has to push me inside a shop if anyone
trips as I cannot control myself (obviously only if they havent hurt themselves)

5. I would love to go on Family Fortunes but no other member of my family would consider it

6. After having my first baby and being overwhelmed with 10 visitors I pretended to go to sleep so that they would go home

Right now for the six people I would like to tag:

Marie at Dreaming Of Wild Roses

Tilly at Tilly Tatas

Sue at Lazy Days In The Country

Sian at Diary Of A Tinyholder

Lou at Ludabelle

Greedy Nan at Greedy Nan

I'd like to take the opportunity to thank Marie and Nicky who have both sent me an award. I will try and get the blog sorted for those tomorrow.

Thanks - it has made me feel that it is worth taking the time to share my days.

Love Sara
XX

New Baby Card Finished

2009-01-11T14:38:00.001-08:00

Well its 10.40pm and I should really be getting to bed but thought I would just show you the New Baby card for my great nephew.

I'm really pleased with it - though I realised I had forgot to stitch round the nameplate in red once I had already stuck it down !!

I'd just like to thank everyone who pops in and especially those who leave a message - I have been really surprised by how it can really lift my day to read your lovely comments.

I think I have been a blogger for about 5 weeks now and I am so looking forward to popping in to have a look at your lives over the coming year.

Thanks Girlies XXX

Thrifting and Crochet So Far

2009-01-09T04:19:00.001-08:00

This is my crochet so far . I know its nothing spectacular but as I couldnt crochet at all a week ago I am really pleased with it.

Its going to be a blanket - I just hope I finish it as I have a habit of starting projects but not finishing them. Perhaps now I'm a blogger it will encourage me as I can show you my progress.

I really want to learn how to do decorative squares like those at Attic 24 whose crochet is amazing.

Yesterday I got the chance to go Charity Shopping - yippee. As I home educate my brilliant parents have my son every Thursday and collect my daughter from primary school so that I get a break.

Christmas day and New Years Day both fell on a Thursday so its been nearly three weeks since I have had the opportunity to get out and about with hubby.

We went to Stone yesterday which has eight charity shops in the main street !!!! And a few great cafes for respite.

We bought lots of books as we normally do - anything to do with crafting, self sufficiency, education, spirituality, past lives, cooking etc

I found those great little cocktail forks - they would have been great for the pickles over Christmas and this beautiful unused tablecloth and napkin set for under three pound.

A couple of DVDs for the kids , The Simpson movie and Pirates of the Caribbean and we still hadnt spent twenty quid !!!

Roll on Thursday !!!

Just trying to get the new baby card finished and then have to get lasagnes ready - little one is a vegetarian so I have to make two lots.

Have a great weekend everyone and thanks for your comments - they are all really encouraging.

New Baby Boy

2009-01-02T11:44:00.000-08:00

Today we became a Great Aunt and Uncle again. I am only 37 - really !!!! (My sisters were 14 and 16 when I was born)

Henry George was born just before lunchtime weighing in at 7lb 11oz. This is our third Great Nephew which has pleased my son.

Just got to start planning the birth sampler now, and start the happy wall, carry on with the crochet, catch up with the washing and ironing, cook for 7 of us tomorrow .....................

New Year Project - The Happy Wall

2009-01-01T13:01:00.000-08:00

One of the first things I want to get done this year is what will be known as "My Happy Wall".

I have been meaning to do this for nearly two years now and there is a very bare wall in our lounge just waiting patiently to be adorned.

The dining room has "The Wedding Wall" - all our family weddings, changed to black and white (where necessary) and put in painted frames so that they dont all clash.

I am going to get the large box of photos from the attic when we put the decorations away and the rule for the happy wall is :

the photo has to make you grin or laugh straight away - or remind us of a really happy day

The other great benefit of this project is the several visits to charity shops looking for frames !!!

If I'm having a bit of a low day I want to be able to go to "The Happy Wall" and be able to smile and be thankful. I'll share some of the photos with you as I find them - maybe you can even vote on whether they made you smile ??

My friend is coming over tomorrow and I've just collected some lovely fairy cakes from my mom for us to have with our cups of tea - but I think I've just heard the boys in the kitchen so I had better go and see if we have any left !!!

See you soon - hope your heads arent too painful today................

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T08:49:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year. I hope it will be a healthy and prosperous 2009 for everyone.

Enjoy yourselves and stay safe.

Russian Doll Needle Case

2008-12-30T13:09:00.000-08:00

I thought I would have a go at a needle case as all my needles just float around in the top of my sewing box.

I had an old girls dress from the charity shop that had Russian Dolls all round the base so thought I would try and use that.

I'm quite please with it to say it only took an hour - not present quality but I'm happy to see it in my sewing box.

Back to the crochet- I keep practicing.... I think it may be a while before I show you any of the results

Chritmas Presents

2008-12-28T10:51:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it is all over - but wanted to show you my favourite presents.

My lovely set of Cath goodies - I dont think I will ever use the dusters.

My beautiful Cath Kidston sewing box - which I actually bought a couple of weeks ago but it is my Christmas Present from my husband.

I love this set - I know its aimed at 8 year olds but I have tried several times to learn to crochet so hopefully this will work.

I had lots of other lovelies - a tripod for my camera, bath set, loads of boxes of biscuits, new jumper, purse, scarf, jewellery etc off the rest of the family.

My mom and dad had bought us a vintage dressing table so will have to take a photo and let you see it.

Hope you all had a really great Christmas and Happy New Year.

Christmas Tree At Last !!

2008-12-16T04:29:00.000-08:00

At last the tree is up and the lounge is finally feeling Christmassy.

Last year we had the gold theme in the lounge but I missed my red and gingham and the kids love it when we have the "toy" tree - so here it is.

I made the hearts and stockings a few years back and the others we have collected over the years. Tinkerbell came back with us from Disneyland Paris last year.

The fairy on top of the tree was on my very first Christmas tree - her bodice was originally silver and had distintegrated (a bit like me really) - so I used some gingham ribbon. I really need to do something with her dress - I might get round to it one of the nights when everything is done ! (like thats gonna happen).

Christmas Past

2008-12-11T09:54:00.000-08:00

I've been busy this week trying to organise presents etc and I'm hoping that one last push tomorrow should nearly or maybe even definately finish the prezzie buying.

I still havent got any decorations up and so feel really un Christmassy.

This morning I spent moving digital photos around into folders as we are getting the grannys and great aunt digital photo frames and I have been trying to select some photos to put on there for them.

It took nearly all morning as I kept stopping to call hubby and say ohhhhhhhhhhh look at this one etc etc.

Whilst searching through I found a few of Christmas past so thought I would share them uactually get round to putting this years up.

This was the dining room a couple of years ago - last year I had nine to dinner so it was a bit of a squash.

This is the dining room fireplace the same year, where the tree is now my built in computer hideaway so I don't think I will manage a tree in here this year.

Will have to try and make it festive somehow !!!

Any ideas ????

Hopefully tomorrow will be blogging about new coffee table makeover - watch this space !

Busy Weekend & Simple Abundance

2008-12-08T09:56:00.000-08:00

Friday night was youth club (for Miss Ellie) and cricket training (for Master Jack)

My lovely husband doubles as the taxi service - so I should have had time for lots of crafting - but feeling sorry for myself with back pain I just about managed the ironing and then settled down to soapland with the biscuit tin.

Miss Ellie rushed back in with a lovely Christmas arrangement that she had made at youth club - it has taken pride of place in the centre of the dining table.

Saturday, everyone had their own plans - the boys were off fishing and Miss Ellie off shopping with her friends family - she has gone on an outward bound course today so they wanted to get their last essentials. Apparently this includes pink eyeliner, hair products and new leggings.
These outward bound courses sound more fun than when I went !

I took a quick trip into the village for more Christmas Cards and had to pop into our three charity shops - they were a little disappointing - just a couple of crafty books and a Spongebob bag for the little miss.

Isn't Saturday night TV great at the moment - I managed to feed everyone bolognaise in time to settle down for the start of Strictly - and I don't think I moved till the end of X factor results.

Sunday tends to be a quiet day as the man of the house has to go to work, so after packing Ellies case, supervising bath and hair washing, turning the bolognaise into lasagnas ( I have to do a veggie and a meat one as the little miss is vegetarian) there didn't seem to be much of the day left.

This morning there was a tearful goodbye (mine not hers) and a bit of a melancholy feel to the rest of it - I'm hoping tomorrow I will be more motivated.

Anyway, now to the reason of my post.

Over the last 6 years any time that I have felt low or down , I have turned to my survival pack of Simple Abundance.

I know that a few of you are aware of the book as I have spoken to you about it. It really is a Godsend - there is an entry for every day helping you focus on things that feed your spirit.

I have the book, CD, discovery journal, gratitude journal , other books by Sarah Ban Breathnach called Romancing The Ordinary and Something More .
Check out her website.

Here is an extract of the entry for December 8th

Tidings Of Comfort and Joy

This is the week that women's shoulders begin to droop as their list of holiday "should do's" become longer than Jacob Marley's chains.

There's card writing, card mailing, gift buying, gift wrapping, gift sending, tree buying, tree trimming, cookie baking, party giving, turkey roasting.

By next week, unless a Power greater than ourselves restores us to sanity, women will be dropping in their tracks. Not surprisingly, the Christmas holidays are the height of the Flu season.
..........................................................................................lots more thoughts and then the good bit :-

Wouldn't the real Christmas miracle be if we slowed down long enough to remember the reason for the season so that our holiday celebrations become authentic and meaningful?

So be of good cheer. Be not frazzled, frustrated, nor frantic, for I bring you tidings of comfort and joy.
If you do Christmas at your house, you can choose to do it your way. Whatever that way might be.
You CAN consciously decide to be happy, loving, fulfilled, generous, peaceful, contented, spiritual, joyous, calm, festive and emotionally connected to the important people in your life for the holidays this year.

Or you CAN unconsciously, choose to be a wreck.

Today REALISE that you can't do everything. Not all at once. Not in the next sixteen days. Not at all. Period !

Now, RECOGNISE that one of the reasons Christmas past has not lived up to expectations is because you've tried to do too much, too perfectly.

Look at the list.

Choose to let only what you love most about the holiday season remain. Cross out two more musts.

Now there's time for gazing out the window at gently falling snow or delighting in the sounds of bells and joyful music, savoring the sweet aroma of hot cider, roast turkey and gingerbread, sipping hot chocolate and homemade egg nog, reading a holiday story each night a dusk, basking in a fire crackling on the hearth and recreating cherished customs that care for your soul as well as those you love.

"I do hope your Christmas has ........that little touch of eternity in among the rush and pitter patter and all," mystic Evelyn Underhill recommends. "It always seems such a mixing of this world and the next - but that, after all, is the idea !"

Hope you like it and that it may help in some small way with the stress of the season.

See you soon

Sara
XX

Please have a look, order them from the library - I cant tell you how many dark days they have got me through.

Charity Shop Trip

2008-12-05T08:05:00.000-08:00

At last it was that time of the week - Charity Shop day !!

Its normally a Thursday but this week had to be postponed for a day because of yesterdays events.

It started well from the first shop - 2 Santa candle holders, some christmas berries (not shown), a couple of books and a lot of embroidered bits , including a crewel work cushion cover - total cost $2.25 - Its supposed to say pounds but for some reason the keyboard has decided its American !

Then a great little bachelors Hug mug that I think we will all fight over and a santa mug - thats a candle.

A couple of new books, magazine, Michael Buble CD.

A journal , ready to record some thoughts.

A beautiful bowl with roses on or should I say - yet another bowl with roses on.

And finally a trammed tapestry (only found out what one was today) by Beverley with all the wools for only 4 pound - the dollar sign is getting on my nerves now. I'm not sure whether to start it or sell it - I have so many unfinshed tapestries. This one is brand new - hasn't even been started.

A great kids top - 25p - that I might turn into something else or just use the buttons.

Total spend - 15 pound

I forgot to photo my vintage childrens names and horoscopes book - though I have checked the horoscopes for my two and they sound nothing like them - other than the Virgo can be very fussy !!!!

Well, better attack the ironing pile and maybe fit some crafting time in - after a nice bath !!!

Thanks for all your positive comments, I've learnt so much this week and met some lovely people.

I am hoping to get round to some Christmas Decorations this weekend - watch this space - but not too carefully !!!

2008-12-04T01:02:00.000-08:00

Not time to do much crafting today - I finshed this lavender heart from an old torn tablecloth last night, but today we have to go to a funeral of my moms cousin.

She was 89 and a formidable lady - I think bringing children up during the war , whilst husbands were away fighting had this effect.

Although I didnt get to see much of her, she was responsible for restoring my sanity at a very stressful point of my life when I was thirteen.

My beloved Grandad had died and my very own formidable Grandma had moved in with us, I can see now that she was grief stricken but to a thirteen year old she was angry, bitter and almost nasty.

The atmosphere in our house changed overnight and stayed that way for fourteen months - until moms cousin, meeting us by accident in town saw how drained we all looked. She insisted on coming to stay with Grandma but only if she would return to her own home for the fortnight.

Grandma reluctantly agreed, had a fantastic time and stayed at her own house after that, restoring all our relationships and sanity.

I had a fantastic relationship with Grandma after that and miss her every day - its just we couldnt live together.

So I am going to say thank you for this effort she made for us all to help rebuild our lives.

Isn't it amazing what one small act can have over a lifetime. I'm sure there is a lesson to be learned.

2008-12-03T04:02:00.000-08:00

I've finished bag number two for Ellies friends. She wanted a duck wearing sunglasses so I hope shes pleased.

I think I may have another couple to do yet so will have to get my thinking cap on !!

My cold is so much better today, I am feeling enthusiastic again.

I went to London at the weekend with my girlfriends to see Dirty Dancing and of course and more importantly Cath Kidston.

I will try and get some photos of my purchases on later - I was very restrained...................and have been regretting it ever since.

2008-12-02T07:40:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas present finished and ready to go. My niece and her fiance live in a lovely little cottage in the cotswolds - it is their first home and their new baby is due to arrive very shortly.

I hope they like it !

These frames from Ikea are great.

Thanks to everyone who has commented so far on my new blog - how is the best way to respond ???

It took two hours today to get a visit counter on !!!

Feeling a bit sorry for myself as I have the sniffles and a bad throat but at least I am tucked up warm inside.

Birth Sampler

2008-11-25T06:53:00.000-08:00

I've finally finished making a birth sampler for my new nephew.

I love Caroline Zoob and wanted to have a go at a similar picture that she has in her childrens book.

I started it three times over and have added and unpicked more times than I care to think - but I am really pleased with the outcome.

I'm hoping to take it over to them next week - so here's fingers crossed that they like it. It's always a worry when you've made something yourself. I'm always scared that they will think its just a cheap skate way of avoiding buying something - but thats me a complete worrier..........

Monkey Applique Bag

2008-11-21T09:31:00.000-08:00

Here is a bag I've made for one of daughters friends at school for Christmas. She is mad about monkeys so I'm hoping she will like it.

I used one of the cotton "eco" shopping bags.

I want to do more for her other friends just need to find out their favourite things. I'm currently working on a duck bag - apparently her friend would like it if it could be wearing sunglasses !!!!

I dont know where these 10 year olds get their imaginations from.

Starting a blog

2008-11-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

I've decided to start a blog - thats the easy bit - now its knowing where to start.

I am a stay at home mom with 2 children. We home educate my son who is 12 and will do the same with my daughter (10) when she leaves year 6 in July.

We all love crafting - my husband enjoys DIY, gardening, carpentry, picture framing - just anything I ask him to really. (I know, I'm a lucky girl)

I love embroidery, sewing, reading blogs, home and crafting books - in fact I think I need to have a stint in The Priory for my book addiction - it is getting out of control.

I am still trying to create a lovely header for my blog so hopefully by the weekend I should have it sorted.