{me} and my thoughts

Christmas Day/Boxing Day revisited with details.

2011-12-29T15:37:00.000+11:00

Well the house is empty apart from me, so the silence is golden but also sad, I really enjoy having all the extended family come and stay and fill my home with love and noise (OK I might complain that they are noisy when they are here, but I really do miss it when it's gone).

Our Christmas was super special, even though it will be the last we celebrate with dear Al. He was such a trooper over the holidays and I will miss his witty input. Only he could make us all, almost spit out Christmas Lunch with his bon bon toy!! With the Sunglasses nanna rope - Jewish plaits interpretation... (No I am not racist - just laughing in the moment)

Let's get to the details.... sharing recipes via links for you too. :)

OK, let's start with the time - yep in years past we have always been up super early, not sure if it is Gran or the Kids but it's always super early...but they were warned with Brian working the night shift on Christmas Eve and not due home till 7.30am it was a no presents till then, you may as well sleep in. BUT!!! of course I was awoken at 6am but miss Bella puss and vomits, so I got to clean them up and then I started with retching as I don't really do vomit too well. So then I woke up gran, but we both tried to go back to bed, nope no sleep coming, so at 6.30am I was sending them all text messages, and giggling like a kiddie listening to Dad and Mum "quick get your phone, it will wake the kids" LMAO that was funny. So before we knew it we were all sitting up downstairs drinking cups of tea and Shortbread and Mincepies awaiting Brian's arrival at 7.30am.

Then it was gifts Bianca and Jasmin took turns in being Santa and passing out the gifts. Of course there were the usual shenanigans from Chantelle and Brian joined the Ribbon club.

Then the Allsopp's popped in for a Christmas tipple, the traditional Tia Maria and Cream and ended up joining us for Breakfast. Our regular Gay Eggs - recipe to come another time, was passed over for the easier version of Huevos Rancheros Our Way, so easy when catering to a crowd.

Then a little more unwrapping of gifts, before it was time to get lunch on. With most of our prep done on Christmas Eve, it was a very laid back and easy setup. Dad did an awesome job of de-boning the Turkey Buffet again and I stuffed it with the prepared stuffing mix that we mixed up on Christmas Eve ready to stuff the boneless breasts. I double the recipe for my Prosciutto Wrapped Stuffing Balls and added about a cup of macadamias this year. So we served the Turkey stuffed with the same mix and had the Prosciutto Wrapped Stuffing Balls on the side. Mum oiled and salted the Pork Crackle, and we popped the Turkey and the Pork in the oven inside. Then while Dylan with his new Knife was helping me prepare the ham, Mum measured as I called out the ingredients for the Baked ham with brown-sugar glaze, which Brian kept basting and checking in the BBQ every 20 Min's. The girls set the table. It really was an all hands helping in Christmas day.

Then we all put our feet up and sang some carols, before it was time to pop the accompaniments on the table.

OK, we accompanied our meats with the Cranberry, cherry and almond relish (and yes I used fresh cherries again, much raved over and all enjoyed. Then Miss Jasmin requested the Mango Salsa - OK I couldn't find the recipe, but it really is just diced fresh mango & half a red onion, a squirt of the chopped chilli in the tube drizzled with apple cider vinegar, lime juice a sprinkle of sugar. This was also prepared on Christmas Eve so the flavours had really mixed nicely come Christmas day.

The rest of the menu was

Roast Pumpkin & Sweet Potato

Green bean salad with roasted cherry tomato vinaigrette

Potato Gratin with Cauliflower Cream (thanks to Coles Christmas Magic mini cookbook again this year)

More Shenanigans from Chantelle and Bianca, more Carols by candlelight and just some good old relaxing whilst the dishes were done!!! Then we were all too full for Christmas Cake and custard, so it was time for the new coffee machine to go into service and dish out Coffee's Affogato style - Shot of Espresso, Shot of Liqueur of choice (mines Kahlua), Scoop of Ice cream and sprinkled with demarera sugar. Then we sat back and watched the kids use the Wii and Just Dance 3 up the lounge room, with screams from me about the rocking of the TV. Before I gave up and went to bed totally exhausted.

Boxing day is another day, filled with friends, food and fun and this year was no exception. Sadly miss B had to work in the city at Myer's but she did join us late for her Trifle. We did two car trips around to my girlfriends so that we only had one driver, then we sat back and ate leftovers and played games...the best being the Talking about your Generation game....covers all the ages from Dad to Jasmin and laugh lots we did. Even a few water bombs were thrown. All in all a great Christmas Day and Boxing Day, one filled with many many special memories. One that I know we will treasure for a long time.!!

Christmas Gift Giving - Cushion Creation

2011-12-28T14:28:00.003+11:00

I fell in love with this design when I first saw it back in 2009 and I had thought I had kept it earmarked, but alas when seeing it again online sadly I couldn't find it.... it is by Leanne Beasley and was part of the Breast of Friends BOM from the Homespun Magazine. When I came accross the image I had saved of it from an online blog earlier this year I decided to make it as a gift for a good friend. But then came the task of no pattern out came my drawing skills, and I am very impressed with what I have done.... I really love the background. Sadly these photos were taken on a dark day, so the colours aren't coming up true, it is a very nice vintage tones of red, cream and brown with a touch of dirty pink. I am finding this one hard to give up. And yep more machine quilting, really think I will be giving the free motion a go before I know it!!!

Christmas Gift Giving - SOME KIND OF WONDERFUL

2011-12-27T12:45:00.030+11:00

Inspired by Chookyblue's Stitch - A - Long Blog, and their project this year to work on the Quilt from Anni Downs Some Kind of Wonderful Book. I had to have it when I saw it; and then the ideas came in for Christmas Gifts.

Well I did get lucky and managed to make a few items from the book.

I had decided that I was going to purchase the Bohin Mini Iron for my Mum this year and loved the little Sewing Case in the book and thought it would be perfect storage for the Iron.

I then hunted down a little ironing mat they work perfect in the little Sewing Case. Of course I had to have one for me too...so it was double projects. I enjoyed the project, but I did find that there was a lot of hand sewing in the project.

I did use a wonderful piece of printed linen for the bottom of the bag instead of creating another patchwork panel.

Then onto another gift for a young lady who plans to travel next year.

The Travel Document holder was a very simple and quick project and I am loving the needle turn applique my circle is almost perfect very happy with that.

I have used a nice Parisian Eiffel tower print for the lining and some of that printed linen for the pockets

All in all I was happy with my creations and the gifts will be well received I hope!!!

Secret Santa - GIFTS SENT AND RECIEVED

2011-12-26T13:00:00.004+11:00

OK Chooky, I think I have put myself on the Naughty list, with only a couple of days till Christmas, I was feeling a little flat, and well with the wrappings I had to move the parcel and thought mmmm why not, so I have cheated and opened my gifts. But I know that I have the family all coming and the computer is in the Sick Bay I have set up so I guess it's only Christmas Eve's Eve.... Well have I swayed you into believing that I am not really naughty but nice..... So I have opened so I could post early this post so that I wouldn't not do it, with family staying who knows when I will get to the computer again.

Anyways These are my awesomely wonderful gifts in our exchange this year from the wonderful Michelle. I truly felt spoilt and the love in your handmade cushion is divine and has given me the lift I needed....and made my Extra special Guest Room look extra pretty too!!! Thank you so much I love them all.

I love the details all stitched, and funny enough I have admired patterns like this ....so it was just perfect for me...and that little vintage postcard in the pocket just AWESOME!!!

So that's what I received, and here is what I had the pleasure of creating and sending as gifts to Elin in Norway, I enjoyed making the runner when I was going runner made - more runner images to come in the next few days.

This wrapped parcel enclosed these gifts.....

It's Christmas DAY!!!

2011-12-25T06:00:00.001+11:00

Its that time of the year again.

2011-12-24T20:00:00.003+11:00

Wishing you all the very best for christmas...........close your eyes, listen to santa,

and you might even here in the dull of the night.....

Happy Christmas to all

and to all a good night!!!

Christmas Gift Giving - RUNNER CRAZY

2011-12-24T14:18:00.001+11:00

This year, I didn't think I would have time to make gifts, but the joy of creating really is Christmas to me, and with all that is going on, I have found that making the time to sit and stitch, has really eased some of the stresses in my life. Besides sitting stitching keeps the mind busy and away from other thoughts.

So with that going on, I have managed to get a roll on some runners.

First was some amazing fabric I received from Amie for my birthday it is perfect to match in with my Christmas theme this year so I whipped up a few of these.... I did the quilt as you go method on a couple

and then I found this pattern for what is known as a card trick template in patchwork, I fell in love with it and whipped up a few as gifts for Christmas.....

I found them enjoyable to do, and I think I have finally mastered my quilting foot on my machine, although I much prefer to hand quilt these items will wash better with the machine quilting.

It's looking a lot like Christmas FINALLY

2011-12-23T14:18:00.000+11:00

Well, it's taken almost the whole 25 days, of December but I am finally here.....and for me that is a big thing, being the super Christmasy person I am. But this year it has been tough. I am hoping that although it's taken me this long to get into the whole season, that it is one of the specialist ones yet. Well that's my wish. Here are some snaps from around my home.

We started the Silly season with our annual Family and Friends Drinks last weekend and the house was all decorated just in time.

Sadly between myself and my wonderous daughter we were to busy being social butterflies and forgot the camera after we took this photo of ourselves.

This wonderful painting/collage was a wonderful gift from Natalie Love - she is super special and it brought me to tears, the words were just what I needed to hear at that time last week when I opened it!!!

And now onto the rest of the house....

Mr and Mrs Elf's sitting keeping a watch over the dining room and piano.

All wrapped and ready for Christmas Day....think we may run out of room when the family arrives let alone that Jolly Red Man on Christmas Eve....

Loving how the white bannister looks all decorated this year!!!

And of course the elves are in the house keeping an eye out on the Naughty and Nice lists!!!

Wishing you all the spirit of the season!!!

Christmas Baking - Nanna's Mince Pies my way!!!

2011-12-14T20:44:00.000+11:00

Well I was lucky enough to have a trip down memory lane today and do some baking....the memory trip was that I was surprised by my sister and her hubby with a visit, due to his illness it's been almost 2 months since they have been to our house...so it was such a wonderful surprise...

and although her memories of baking with Nanna were different we did have a lovely time.

here are some photos...

and the recipe is here

Christmas Baking - ROCKY ROAD GIFTS

2011-12-14T20:03:00.000+11:00

OK sharing this years variation on my Rocky Road Gifts, using the basics of this recipe again.

Yep baking the cakes means waiting for them to cook, it's the perfect time to keep at the cooking, melting and stirring so it was all in on baking day Tuesday and the Rocky Road got started. I love to have this on hand during the Christmas Season, so when I was at COSTCO the other week this huge box of Turkish Delight was only $14 so of course it brings the price of my rocky road down when I can mix up an even bigger batch, meaning more to share (who am I kidding, it means a bigger container to hide from the fingers at home, but I guess it is Christmas)

Then while I was at IKEA on Monday doing that inspiration shopping, I did get those tins for the cakes for large serves of Rocky Road, but once home they worked better for the cakes I think, but there are a couple of family sized Rocky Road gifts packaged up in the tins, but the smaller little gifts worked wonders in these glasses and at only $5.99 for 6 what a bargain.

The remainder will grace our Christmas table on Christmas day, with tea lights in them
so the Altered Recipe was
2 x blocks of Cadbury dairy milk cooking chocolate (for one batch I used the Dark version)

as I was using the cooking chocolate I needed nuts, so I added
1/2 cup Pistachios
1/2 cup Cashews
1x100g bag Betta Mallow Bakes
1x180g bag Coles raspberries lollies - cut these in half with a pair of kitchen scissors
and 150g of Authentic Turkish Delight {optional} - cut these in half with a pair of kitchen scissors, then drop back into the box, so that they get coated in the icing sugar to stop the cut edge sticking to each other
so not much of a change...but it's good

Wrapped and looking very pretty!!!

And here are the cakes all wrapped and looking pretty good too I think...loving my IKEA Christmas Tags too!!

Christmas Baking - Shortbread

2011-12-14T19:42:00.000+11:00

Well I have always cooked my Poppo's Traditional recipe here, no variations, its hard and crisp and well it's the shortbread I have grown up on. But after gifting some to Amie, she said no I think my Nanna's shortbread is better...so she shared her recipe with me, and well this year I have tried it....OH MY, light and fluffy, and just delicious.....

So here is Amie's Recipe...cook them both and you decide.

Christmas Random Acts of Kindness - QUILTS OF LOVE

2011-12-14T05:03:00.000+11:00

Every year I am sent a wonderful email from one of my wholesalers wishing us all a merry Christmas there is always a message/story in that email that invokes in me a wondrous feeling, and this year Deb hasn't failed to share again and started off my tears that I knew would come with writing this post. But I am not sure if it is her message alone or the fact that we are all a little more emotional this year, praying and hoping that we make it through Christmas as the family we are and not missing that extra special one of us that is ill, but it could also be from my sharing in the Quilts of Love that I will share with you at the end of Deb's story.

Here is Deb's story just food for thought for you.

Bobby was getting cold sitting out in his back yard in the snow. Bobby didn't wear boots; he didn't like them and anyway he didn't own any. The thin sneakers he wore had a few holes in them and they did a poor job of keeping out the cold. Bobby had been in his backyard for about an hour already. And, try as he might, he could not come up with an idea for his mother's Christmas gift. He shook his head as he thought, "This is useless, even if I do come up with an idea, I don't have any money to spend. Ever since his father had passed away three years ago, the family of five had struggled. It wasn't because his mother didn't care, or try, there just never seemed to be enough. She worked nights at the hospital, but the small wage that she was earning could only be stretched so far. What the family lacked in money and material things, they more than made up for in love and family unity. Bobby had two older and one younger sister, who ran the household in their mother's absence. All three of his sisters had already made beautiful gifts for their mother. Somehow it just wasn't fair. Here it was Christmas Eve already, and he had nothing. Wiping a tear from his eye, Bobby kicked the snow and started to walk down to the street where the shops and stores were. It wasn't easy being six without a father, especially when he needed a man to talk to. Bobby walked from shop to shop, looking into each decorated window. Everything seemed so beautiful and so out of reach. It was starting to get dark and Bobby reluctantly turned to walk home when suddenly his eyes caught the glimmer of the setting sun's rays reflecting off of something along the curb. He reached down and discovered a shiny dime. Never before has anyone felt so wealthy as Bobby felt at that moment. As he held his new found treasure, a warmth spread throughout his entire body and he walked into the first store he saw. His excitement quickly turned cold when salesperson after salesperson told him that he could not buy anything with only a dime. He saw a flower shop and went inside to wait in line. When the shop owner asked if he could help him, Bobby presented the dime and asked if he could buy one flower for his mother's Christmas gift. The shop owner looked at Bobby and his ten cent offering. Then he put his hand on Bobby's shoulder and said to him, "You just wait here and I'll see what I can do for you." As Bobby waited, he looked at the beautiful flowers and even though he was a boy,he could see why mothers and girls liked flowers. The sound of the door closing as the last customer left, jolted Bobby back to reality. All alone in the shop, Bobby began to feel alone and afraid. Suddenly the shop owner came out and moved to the counter. There, before Bobby's eyes, lay twelve long stem, red roses, with leaves of green and tiny white flowers all tied together with a big silver bow. Bobby's heart sank as the owner picked them up and placed them gently into a long white box.

"That will be ten cents young man," the shop owner said reaching out his hand for the dime. Slowly, Bobby moved his hand to give the man his dime. Could this be true? No one else would give him a thing for his dime! Sensing the boy's reluctance, the shop owner added, "I just happened to have some roses on sale for ten cents a dozen. Would you like them?" This time Bobby did not hesitate, and when the man placed the long box into his hands, he knew it was true. Walking out the door that the owner was holding for Bobby, he heard the shop keeper say, "Merry Christmas, son." As he returned inside, the shop keepers wife walked out. "Who were you talking to back there and where are the roses you were fixing?" Staring out the window, and blinking the tears from his own eyes, he replied,"A strange thing happened to me this morning. While I was setting up things to open the shop, I thought I heard a voice telling me to set aside a dozen of my best roses for a special gift. I wasn't sure at the time whether I had lost my mind or what, but I set them aside anyway. Then just a few minutes ago, a little boy came into the shop and wanted to buy a flower for his mother with one small dime. When I looked at him, I saw myself, I too was a poor boy many years ago. When I saw that little boy tonight, I knew who that voice was, and I put together a dozen of my very best roses."
Maybe this Christmas, or for a while now, you have heard a still small voice quietly telling you something.
Will you listen and obey? Or just sweep it aside thinking that you are crazy like this man thought at the time.
Sometimes we don't understand the bigger picture of what is happening when we are asked to give. But rest assured if you obey and listen to that small soft whisper ....all in time ....will be revealed to you.

So if you are still with me, I had planned to post about my Quilts of Love today anyway, but felt that it went with the story above so perfectly it just had to be in the one post.

Now Quilts of love came about when we told the sad news of Al's Cancer being Terminal to the Monday Sewing Group I attend, the ladies were like most of us devastated, and instantly asked what they could do to help. Having helped out on a quilt once before I thought that as we all stitched it would be a wonderful thing to make for Al, and the ladies were very enthused, with such a great response of stitched hearts. It was decided that we would make this an ongoing project and not just for Al but for anyone we Knew who just needed a little extra love in their lives at the moment.

So over the passed 2 months the group of 12-15 ladies have each stitched many hearts of love and Mum and I have sewn them into 3 quilts, that Ev has hand Quilted and we have labelled them and bound them and yesterday over our special Christmas Lunch we handed them out. My sister has received 2 quilts, so that both her girls will have a special memento of their dad once he has passed on. And the other quilt went to a special lady in our groups grandson who has Cerebral Palsy but isn't doing very well at the moment either. We hope that these special quilts give those that sleep under them an extra hug of love.

But this story also reminded me that each year during the mad Christmas season, because I have worked in retail, I understand the hard work put in by the wondrous retail staff, and the huffy customers they have to deal with, so when I am doing my shopping I do it with a smile and always a small little gift, be it a choccy or a flower, so that when I make my purchase I wish the sales assistant a merry Christmas and hope that it makes there day a little easier having served at least one customer that appreciates their hard work.

So this Christmas don't be a bah humbug at the checkout, think about the long hours and the many customers that poor sales assistant has served during this crazy time and perhaps you too can purchase an extra little something to leave at the register to make them smile and may the giving you give this Christmas truly bless you all, remember after all it really is a season for giving.

Christmas Baking - TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS CAKES

2011-12-13T14:10:00.000+11:00

Each year I do the baking, and I usually begin around October, with the soaking of fruit, well some times things come along to test us and this year is one of those big ones. So I decided that I wouldn't cook a cake but just purchase one. BUT!!! It didn't go down too well with my number one daughter, mum you have to do cake, so as I had purchased my fruits, it was more getting in the spirit and finding the time....so before I knew it it was the 1st Dec and fruit and I finally had time to play.

So hence this repost of this old Recipe, here is my modified running late but still filled with 'Christmas' Spirit Cake. I am not going to repost the whole recipe, just give you my modified steps, and share with you my packaging ideas for this year.

Step 1 modified Not having the month to soak I have replaced the water with cointreau....hope it works!!! It certainly smells divine.

Fruit has soaked longer than intended due to everything else, but oh well, it has mixed up and baked today with no other changes except for my tins.

As I like to give a few cakes away, I love thinking up new ways of doing this, and with a trip to IKEA yesterday for inspiration, I came up with these lovely little plant pots they are Socker in the 10cm size @ $1.99 I thought they were a bargain priced container this year. They hold a lot more than I realised so my cakes are much bigger than usual, but I know those that receive them will love that little bit more.!!!

I have lined the tins with bake paper and hope to wrap them with cellophane with a ribbon and tag once they are cooled. But at the moment they are sitting baked, warm on the oven, with a rich aroma of brandy after having that one last drizzle on the warm cake....Oh my the smell!!! is oh so Christmas.

So as far as quantity went, I did my double batch mix and have baked my usual large round that's our cake and 6 of these pots.

Let me know if you have baked my recipe this year and how you went about tweaking it for you and your family and gifts.

Christmas Gift Giving - Christmas Planners

2011-12-13T12:17:00.001+11:00

Last year I realised that I never posted and shared these gifts that I made, when they were received I was commissioned to make a few these as purchasable completed gifts. So cutting and pasting and scrapping supplies were dusted off and here is this years creations as well.

I was totally inspired by the Christmas Planner here and I used the templates from here

I will also be selling these again next year in my store, for those of you that don't wish to make your own, put your orders in via email please.

A few more detail shots.

Our Deck

2011-12-09T17:29:00.001+11:00

Well the deck is coming along slowly, but well we all know who won the race between the tortoise and the hare, so slow and steady does it.
So here is the progress since April this year....no stairs.

The beginnings of the Garden Beds (aka our coffins)

Soil is going in.

Time for planting.....gosh how long this took.

One set of completed stairs.

with completed Gardens.....all 4 are now done....yippee.

And lunch with some special people, which is the reason for this space....enjoying the company of loved ones over meals.

Garden Journal Quilted Complete

2011-12-08T17:13:00.001+11:00

Back in November I could do that big sigh, a project complete!!!

I signed on at the Stitch A Long Blog back in March 2010 to work on my Gardeners Journal Quilt, with a few hiccups and my usual overcommitment of projects I was only about 10 months too late but hey I did have fun and with the encouragement of ChookyBlue and the other ladies on the blog I did finish and I love my quilt.

I love the hand quilting, and there is a lot of it. I love the fabrics and most of all I love that I have another quilt to add to my pile of love in my home!!

Sadly I am not joining the ladies on the Stitch - A - Long Blog this year with their Some Kind of Wonderful Quilt but I did buy the book and well maybe over the next few posts you will see some of the projects from that book, as I couldn't not buy the book and I fell in love with some of the smaller projects.

Christmas Gift Giving - HANDMADE FABRIC BAUBLE TUTORIAL

2011-12-07T12:00:00.001+11:00

I was SEW surprised when back in September I received a comment on one of my Christmas Gift Giving Tutorials from last year from Madame Samm asking if I would love to join the Comfort and JOY themed tutorials for the month of December on the http://www.sewwequilt.com/ blog. I was surprised and excited and wasn't sure what I would share with you all. After my excitement of accepting our family got some heartbreaking news and went into a family crisis I sent off a quick email declining thinking I wouldn't have time with all that needed attention within my family. And then to my surprise a reminder popped up a couple of days ago and in the midst of doing Christmas Cards I decided yep this was comfort and JOY and i needed to share....so here is my little comfort and JOY handmade fabric bauble tutorial.

Inspired by my wonderful handmade ornaments that I received and blogged about in this post, and my tradition of hosting a Handmade Ornament swap for the past few years, but due to family commitments didn't host this year, when writing out my cards for the girls that regularly swap with me I couldn't not include a little something for these lovely ladies and so these little wonders came about!!!

They were so quick and easy within a little while you can whip up 8 just using the width of the fabric from a couple of scrap strips it's really easy!!!

Ingredients

Simple Scraps - jelly roll left overs are great!! But for those of you that need a more realistic measurement you need
one dark fabric strip measuring 2.5 x width of fabric
one light fabric strip measuring 3 x width of fabric
1 x length of piping to match the width of fabric
1 x length of ricrac to match the width of fabric
one light or dark fabric strip measuring 5 x width of fabric- this is your backing fabric
strip of iron on pellon {wadding} measuring 5 x width of fabric
Printed template from this link and traced onto cardboard or template plastic

extras - ribbon to hang and ruched ribbon to make the top of the bauble.

Method

Sandwich and pin the piping between the dark 3 inch strip and the 2.5 inch light strip (right sides together)

Sew this seam using the zipper foot helps to get your stitches nice and close to the piping.

Open out and press this seam.
Stitch with matching thread your row of ric rac about 1/2 inch from the piping join.

Iron the Pelon to the wrong side of the 5 inch backing fabric.

Sandwich and pin with right sides together the joined 5 inch piece and the backing piece. With either a sharp pencil or fabric pen trace around your template onto the wrong side of the fabric. leaving a small space between each ornament. Across the width of the fabric I get 8 ornaments.

Using your pencil line as a guide sew inside these shapes leaving the neck open.

Cut around each shape just inside your drawn lines.

With the aid of a turning tool (aka my chop stick) gently turn and ease them shapes right side out.

Turn the top of the neck back in 1/4 inch and Press.

Cut lengths of your hanging ribbon and ruched ribbon
Insert the hanging ribbon into the neck of each ornament and then use the ruched ribbon to wrap around each neck overlapping and pinning.
Then using a zigzag stitch close your openings and create decorative finish to your ornaments.

Now will you be receiving one of these with your Christmas card ....bet your wishing your on my Christmas Card extra special List!!!

Thank you Madame Samm for inviting me and making me see more comfort and JOY in the art of giving and giving handmade.

See this post for a my Christmas Freebie, just print, paste to a folded card, write you message, slip in one of your handmade fabric baubles and post to that special friend and discover some of that comfort and JOY of giving handmade.

Too see more of my tutorials and all that I get up too please visit my blog {me} and my thoughts and click on the tutorials link.

Christmas Cards DONE & a Freebie

2011-12-04T20:45:00.001+11:00

Well it's only the 4th of December and I am only 4 days late on tradition but the Cards are done, I went the easy way this year and did a photoshop image printed on photo paper then printed out stuck on cards, which i stamped invites on the inside of some for our Traditional Christmas Party, added the sprinkle and even some handmade ornaments which if you keep an eye out here you may see in an upcoming tutorial featured on Madame Samm's Sew We Quilt blog on Wednesday the 7th December

and as a little comforting Joy for all those of you out there that want a quick handmade card I am sharing my image here with you...just print 4 on a sheet of photo paper cut and paste on a card and tada easy cards.

Handmade Gifts for Nyngan

2011-12-01T14:51:00.001+11:00

Back in July my birthday was made extra special by being asked for be Evie Taylors Godmother. Bianca and I had planned a trip to Nyngan this year some time, so with this honour of Godmother our tripped got planned.

What better excuse to make handmade gifts and of course do a little shopping, just had to spoil this little cherub.

Evie Kay above is wearing a couple of her special gifts....ones to keep and treasure.

I of course started making this one once I knew it was a girl....love this little snuggle quilt, soft polar fleece backed and of course a signature satin edge binding, just one of my things for babies!!!

And then there are those special gift bags above, I have this thing where new bubs, means all kiddies in the family get gifts, just so they all feel a little spoilt.....so the siblings got signature bags too ......here they are.

Then it was special name candles, love that scrapping supplies got dragged out perfect for this....oh and Amie was being Christened too, so she just had to have one as well.

The to top the trip off, it was also Amie's birthday a couple of days before, so more spoiling in order - special double sided quilted runner - can't wait to make this one for me, love the patch worked scallop.

Oh and more retail shopping, every little fairy needs a tutu and I couldn't resist these cute red tutu tights....and the extras that went with the outfit, gotta be matching!!!

Secret Santa Parcel RECIEVED

2011-11-30T12:49:00.000+11:00

Oh what the mail man delivered today, brought tears to my eyes, and not because of the state of the box, although it did cause some concern.

This very large soft and squishy parcel with a smaller one attached, with a note saying that I am not to open till Christmas. Oh to have the will power to wait!!!
These two smaller ones that had notes that I was too open them now.

So open them I did, and how how sweet they are, I just love them and can't wait till the tree and decorations start going up tomorrow to put them on display, these little quilted ornaments are just Divine and I do have a passion for that older traditional ornament shape. But I especially love this little hand blown glass bird oh my this photo just doesn't show you how special he is.

But to top it off Michelle yes I know who you are.....and have stalked your blog this morning and realise that chooky's random connections of us coudlnt' have been more perfect we are two peas in a pod with our loves of rust and fabric possessions.

Michelle, it's your random act of kindness of slipping that little something extra in my gift to brighten my day and my life at the moment, this special little Gnome is just gorgeous. He comes with a sweet story that is very sweet and special. It was definitely a Kleenex moment. Now to find the perfect little name and special place for him.

The Legend of the Fortune Fairies has a long and happy history. Long, Long ago when humans were closer to the natural world and the magic creatures that inhabited it, he was able to speak with the little people who where there to protect humans and his environment. In return the people of the world would put little statues of the Fortune Fairies in special places around their homes and gardens. Sadly the time has gone by. Humans forgot the art of communicating with these special spirits, but your Fortune Fairies collection will bring back those powers to you. Put your Fortune Fairies in a special place and give them each a name. They will have the power to protect you.

Thank you again Michelle

Quilt for Briony

2011-11-30T12:30:00.002+11:00

Back in September, I posted this wonderful Quilt to Briony. With all that has been going on, my blog has been neglected, so I have decided to share anyways, just going though the images that I have meant to share.

Sometimes you just have to do something from the bottom of your heart for somebody in their time of need, and when Briony's family were devastated in the floods Amie and I chatted and this is what happened, I loved working on this project here are some images to share.

I must thank Corrie of Retromummy for coming to my aid and machine quilting this for us, I am still to learn this process but one day soon Corrie and I will get together for that lesson.

Cancer

2011-11-30T12:24:00.000+11:00

Yep getting back to that stress filled post of a few weeks back.

I haven't felt the need to vent again, but alot of you have emailed me to check on me, and I want to say thank you. If I haven't responded I hope that this post helps answer your questions.

I haven't been able to share all my thoughts on my Brother In Laws cancer journey, for it really isn't my story to tell.

But I can say this, only those that have lost a loved one to this dreaded disease will truly understand the effects of watching a loved one slowly die. How it breaks and pulls at your heart strings every moment of every day.

I received a lovely comment on that venting post from Kris and I felt the need to share it here

I think there are some situations in life that we will never know the reason we've had to go through them, we just take one day at a time. Someone once told me a story about a butterfly as it emerges from it's cocoon ... to get out, the butterfly must struggle and squeeze it's way through a tiny opening, sometimes taking hours, but it's that very struggling that gets the 'blood' flowing properly through it's new wings, giving them the strength needed for that butterfly to soar and spread rainbows in the air wherever it goes. So even as you go through the struggling part, trust that strength and beauty will be the destination ... one day.

Then this morning the post man brought me a parcel in the post another Random Act of Kindness brought me to tears in the shape of this gorgeous little fairy of health. Thank you to Michelle your thoughts of kindness touch my heart.

Really today I feel much better and am just thankful for each and every moment of the day, the laughter in my sisters voice this morning really was a happy thing, telling me she does have a social life you know as she was packing up the wheelchair and my brother in law and their bingo daubers for a nice day out. Each day really is a blessing of memories now the good ones and the harder ones!!!

Just so proud!!!

2011-11-29T14:29:00.001+11:00

What is it about being a parent, tears of joy and that extreme feeling of heart aching proudness? That overwhelming feeling of wanting to burst with pride!

Year 12 ended only 2 short weeks ago, and how handsome you looked on your formal night, words can't express how sad but happy I felt. My baby all grown up and no more school.

Then you headed of for schoolies week, the nerves and anxiety I felt as a mother you will never know.

But to have you home only one day, and then to hear you on the phone enquiring about the job interview you had 2 weeks ago and to hear the excitement in your voice when you said " i think i got it"

We are so proud of you Dylan, you are on the journey to becoming that chef that you to dream of being.

Well done my son, so PROUD OF YOU

Good news is so rare around here at the moment, those moments of joy just seem to be extra extra special.

Secret Santa POSTED

2011-11-29T12:26:00.000+11:00

Well with all that was going on, I have tried to keep some things normal, and this one is.....at least.

It's the only thing that I am organised for Christmas this year, I have yet to even soak my fruit for the fruit cake....but hey we are soldiering on and cherishing all that is family.

So just to let Chooky know and my swap partner - yep I have stalked your blog I do hope you love it....it's all posted and on it's way in the air now!!!

Everything Happens for a REASON

2011-11-10T15:25:00.000+11:00

Well, I am a believer that everything happens for a reason, but at the moment I really am questioning that big man up there WHAT IS THE REASON?????

If I am to learn from these lessons, they are certainly some of the hardest ones I have had to face of late and I am really wondering what the FXXX the reason is, W T F am I supposed to learn.

CANCER SUX LIFE SUX

Yep that's how I feel today, having a low day, can only feel up fo so long and when everything in my house of cards is falling down.

Even with the awesomely good news that we have had this week, I am still questioning my faith.

Don't panic if you read this, this is what a blog is for, to get my thoughts out of my head and hopefully help me to ponder what it is I need to know.

But know that somehow the smiling face of a special little baby girl gives me hope!

Last of my Quilts for Queensland

2011-10-04T13:34:00.000+11:00

Remember a few posts back that I went to Corrie's Quilts for Queensland Quilting Bee - well I have finally completed the last 3 of the 6 quilts I brought home to bind and sew and snip....it's such a good feeling. I forgot to photograph the first 3 but here are the last ready to drop into RetroMummy's for delivery!!

This is the third of the three that I brought home that needed sewing together and clipping, this is such a bright and fun kids quilt, and such a snuggly quilt too!!! It's the first time I have done a raggy style quilt with the wadding to the edges. Normally I cut my wadding 1/2 inch smaller than the sandwhich layers, so you can see the wadding, but it kind of looks fluffier if that makes sense.

These two quilts I took and had a family friend quilt them by hand, as I felt that machine quilting just wouldn't do them justice. Evelyn has done a wonderful job. I got to bind them, and you all know that's my favourite part of quiting!!!

This more traditional style one was one of my favourites, I am still amazed at how so many stitchers blindly created this quilt.....amazing!!! It all just goes together like it was made with by one person.

October 2011 Forever Always Creative Kit Release (the Evie)

2011-09-02T19:51:00.000+10:00

When shopping for these supplies I had visions of coffee and cake, and then I saw photos of little miss Evie Taylor and I had to scrap them and finish putting the kits together with her photos as inspiration.

So although it is September's Kit I have affectionately called it the Evie Kit and it is filled with all things pink and brown, think coffee and cake almost or soft and cuddly. Featuring items from COSMO CRICKET, ATHENTIQUE, BASICGREY, 7GYPSIES assorted single and double sided papers, Bazzill and of course Kraft, and some lovely little "extras" including Forever Always Handmade buttons and bobs pink collection and vintage music papers to list just a few. Retailing for the extremely competitive price of $28.95, this month's kit comes in the colours inspired by "baby Evie" my soon to be God Daughter and past Design Team Member Amie Taylor's latest family member. Photos of Evie by Amie Taylor

This month saw me creating lots of little bits and bobs with vintage and new items on my favourite style packaging the old button card - with the first release of pink passion in the kit, I hope you check out the Sonia's originals tab in the Forever Always Online Store for other card releases. I so hope you enjoy this kit, and all that I have included....here are my samples.!!!

I just loved the simplicity of this layout, the rubons almost completed it on its own.

This layout I added from my stash to the Kit supplies thicker alphas and a hat pin, the kit worked well here.

This was my favourite photo of Evie and I really loved the black and white shot as well.

Not much added from my stash, just ink, thread and staples...loving that I could work just from the kit bag.

Last one of miss Evie, and this piece of paper just screamed to used alone, adding only the fabric and stickers from the kit to this one. Extras were some Little Yellow Bicycle Clear Frames, Hot Dollar Glitter Alphas and I had fun doodling the border.

And last layout, just to prove it doesn't have to be all girly layouts - my awesome birthday cake, possibly the beginning of my shopping for the kit came from here....have added a little KaiserCraft Bling and Pearls, more of the Hot Dollar glitter alphas and some Carolees Creations tiny alphas

If you like this Kit, you can purchase it here - while stocks last!!!

What a huge weekend!!!

2011-08-23T16:25:00.000+10:00

WOW, where to start, it was a huge weekend for me last weekend. Still feel like I am recovering.

Guess I start at the baking. With a big weekend planned and all events being the bring a plate to share kind....it's Brownies to the rescue who can resist a perfect Brownie, well I know I can't {smirk}. Friday had me planning the brownie baking first thing in the morning and lucky for us the arrival of a Innovations catalogue came - now these either never make it out of the plastic before hitting the recycle bin, or I devour them with interest, this particular catalogue had arrived on Thursday and one of the family had opened it and left it on the table with the rest of the mail for mum to sort. I was just tossing it in the recycle when on the walk to the bin, I did a flick, and the first thing I see is the perfect brownie tin...now I had seen these on websites for sale in the USA, but between postage and the price I always thought Oh one day!! Well at $20 and we could pick it up. YEP that's what I did, I shipped hubby up to French's Forest at 9am on Saturday so that I could get to baking.

Image Source

I was actually shocked at the size to start with, and only made one single batch of my Perfect Brownie Mix, soon realising that it needed a batch and a half or even a double batch I think. But I do love that I can do one row with just choc drops added, then another row with some choc drops and some walnuts, and then the last row is our favourite with the raspberries....oh my we love this new pan... So with brownies baked, it was off in the car with the best smelling hot brownie straight from the oven. Warning don't do this, you will be craving brownie all the way!!!

First stop after 1 and half hours in the car with that wonderful brownie odour....was my sisters as we were joining her at a friends for a shoe party. Amazing leather shoes, oh to have more money it was a Laura Benini Party and I have never seen so many Australian Made Leather Shoes, apart from the only ones that appealed were a winter shoe, and coming into spring it just didn't seem right, so I was very strong and held back on my purchase but Bianca got the best pair of work heels ever, and she was ever so tempted on the handbag, but held off due to the remaining party plans we had still to view over the remainder of the day.

Then it was back to my sisters for a spot of dinner, cut up that Brownie and plate it up to take onto the next venue a Girls Night In event hosted by my friend Tia - OH my, apart from getting lost in the dark - yes I have been to her home before but in the dark and with a few too many back seat drivers who had all had a few glasses of bubbles....well let's say we ended up at Picton but managed with a phone a MUM call back at Bingara Gorge Estate - were gob smacked at the cars out the front, what a huge turnout Tia got - close to 50 woman, amazing. So needless to say we purchased some Emma Page jewellery, {yes we fell in love with this wonderful range of jewellery at reasonable prices so we are hosting our own Jewellery night soon} Heidi picked up some handbags, and her and Jazz both had their eyebrows waxed....we had a great night, but then it was a long drive home, but at least it was quicker than the lost trip there and we were in bed before midnight.

Image by RetroMummy

Then it was up and slice up more of that brownie for my take a plate to the Quilts for Queensland Quilting Bee that Corrie of RetroMummy had organised. WOW what an event to be a part of, such a good cause and well it was amazing, working and chatting and stitching with the 19 other lovely ladies. I was blown away with the stack of 23 quilts that we completed, when I arrived and set to helping Corrie unpack the boxes and post bags, I really didn't see us achieving such a great amount. And I honestly don't think Corrie, when she first requested 12 inch blocks expected it to get such a great response either.

We each had a our sewing machines whirring away, not long after we had laid out about 20 quilts all from assorted 12 inch blocks that Corrie had received from every inch of this amazing giving planet!! As soon as a laid out quilt was removed by a stitcher somebody was laying out more blocks, and then that was soon gathered and stitched too.

The quilts ranged in size from 9, 12 and even 16 x 12 inch blocks. It certainly was amazing to see how so many random blocks can come together to form stunning quilts.

Lunch time came all too quick, but amazingly I think all the blocks were quilt tops by this stage. Lunch need I mention that there was way too much food, amazing frittata's, sandwiches, cheeses and crackers then there was the brownie :) and many other little cupcakes and cookies galore.

After lunch it was onto the laying out of quilts with either polar fleece on the smaller ones, flannel on some, and wading and fabric on some of the larger ones, some machine quilting, binding and before we new it the day was done, and we had achieved a wonderful pile of quilts completed, and many ready to be stitched either by longarm quilters at home or by a few good friends who like to hand quilt.

Lisa with her first completed quilt
Image by RetroMummy

I was lucky enough to find myself seated next to Lisa a lovely young girl, who had never completed a quilt before - so it was wonderful seeing her achieve her very first stitched quilt top and then the completion of putting on a flannel backing as well. Lisa was very proud of her achievement. During the day we chatted and I soon learned that she is keen to begin making her very first quilt using the amazing Very Hungry Caterpillar Fabric stash she received as a gift. I look forward to seeing it soon. Perhaps at another stitch in that Corrie has promised to organise for later in the year, or even at my next Forever Always Retreat Lisa and Corrie are keen to come.

I didn't get any photos on the day, so these images have come from Corrie's RetroMummy Blog - which if you visit you can see many more photos of the quilts from the day.

I brought 6 quilts ready to complete home with me. This one above that needs to be bound...(Monday I made the binding and machine stitched it on, it's sitting ready to hand complete tonight).

This above pile, of 12 inch quilt as you go blocks ready to make into 3 of the raggy style quilts. Yesterday I managed to stitch up one quilt ready for snipping.
I also brought home two amazing quilt tops ready for hand quilting there were many hand pieced items on both of them, one a bright and modern and the other more traditional both in colour and design. Both these had wading and backing - I had to stitch up the backing for one of them as it is rather large. I have left both of them with Evelyn Gill from the Monday Sewing group I attend at Campbelltown Library to hand quilt, she was very excited when I shared them with her yesterday!! Once Evelyn has quilted them I will bind them before passing back to Corrie. Promise to share photos of them then too!!

Corrie surprised us all with a lovely, but not necessary little gift for joining her on the day, of a lovely charm pack, I love the blue and yellow cottageness of this pack, I see a table runner or topper in this one!!!

So Monday was a full on day, with the long drive over to the library and then another 4 hours stitching and chatting. Then Lunch with family, always nice when Dad joins us too. Ran in Sharryn Thomson in the car park, so a chatter and natter then home...almost feel asleep at the wheel, driving really knocks me around.

Home and I feel asleep with a cuppa before dinner. so sadly didn't make my Monday night quilting group.

Today it's been packing and sorting out for the carpet that comes on Friday. I have left hubby to do some painting so I could do a bit of blogging and maybe some stitching, still working on that retreat class for March. Here is a little sneak...

Till next time from this happy exhausted little stitcher.

Scrapbooking Top50 - Challenge 4

2011-08-19T17:57:00.000+10:00

Challenge 4: Ant's 'game' challenge.

Criteria for this one was to think back to your childhood and create a LO based on or inspired by a favourite childhood game of your own. Just to make it a little harder....I would also like to see some felt used on your LO. This could be in the way of embellishments, alphas, store bought or home made. It is entirely up to you.

Headache is a board game similar to Trouble in which the object is to land a playing piece on top of all opponents' pieces (known as "cones"). The game is distinct from Trouble in that there is no finish the player must reach. Play moves in circles, until only one player has cones remaining on the board, being declared the winner. All players are welcome to occupy any space throughout the game, provided die roll allows, and there are eight spaces that serve as "safe" spots, where a cone resting on this space cannot be captured. Captured pieces are not sent back to start, but are permanently lost.

Like Trouble, Headache has its dice in a Pop-o-matic bubble in the center of the board. The bubble is pressed to roll the dice. But unlike Trouble, which has a single die in the bubble, Headache has two dice. One die is a regular die featuring the numbers one thru six. The other is blank on five sides, and has a red dot on the sixth side. The red dot, if rolled allows for an extra turn.

The Weather has turned so the photograph is indoors with lights but the colours are just not coming up as bright as they are. But it was the colours of the old "HEADACHE" game that inspired my layout and well although I am into banners at the moment, the shape of those cones just screamed a banner, I had wanted to make a shaker box but just couldn't find any plastic in the no lights no powered home - so it was number embossed tickets instead....all in all I think it comes up - even my little felt cut heart!!!

Here are a few close up detail shots for you

I have used a selection of Echo Park For the Record Papers and Embellishments

Thanks for looking, hope your keeping warm on this cold stormy friday afternoon.

Scrapbooking top50 Australia - August Cybercrop

2011-08-19T12:32:00.000+10:00

It's been a while since I attended a cybercrop, but the topic Are You Game?... over at Scrapbooking top50 really got my creative juices flowing this week, I totally enjoyed the fun and games of the challenges.

Challenge One - Marelize's 'Let's Play' Challenge

Criteria for this one where to Use the following sketch from PageMaps as inspiration + use the word "PLAY" in your title.!

Here are a few close up detail shots for you.

I have used a selection of Echo Park For the Record Papers and Embellishments, Jenni Bowlin buttons, felt flower, a crochet flower from my crochet dabbling. Technique Tuesday Studio AE Stamps

Challenge 2 - Sue's 'Scrap Bingo' Challenge!

Criteria for this challenge you had to play your own game of 'Scrap Bingo', using this card. You will need to select ONE COMPLETE ROW (either vertical / horizontal / diagonal) and they will be your challenge criteria. You will need to ensure that ALL criteria from your chosen row are clearly visible on your layout. You will also need to state what your criteria were in the description when you post your layout in the gallery.

I have selected the top diagonal - Stitching, Number in the Title, At least 5 flowers, fussy cutting.

Here are a few close up detail shots for you.

I have used a selection of 7Gypsy's Papers, Graphic45 Papers. My stitching is clearly obvious and I have completed it with the aid of my Bazzill In Stitches Templates. There are 16 flowers that I have layered up and made into the four flowers you see on the layout. I have fussy cut around stamped and digital images that I printed and stamped onto transparencies including my number title. As well as fussy cutting around the huge Graphic45 Camera Image.

Challenge 3: Vicki's 'Find-a-word' Challenge!

Criteria for this challenge is a little puzzle! A 'find-a-word' puzzle!!All you needed to do, is find the words listed below in the puzzle. There will be 4 words you can't find, and these will be the 4 criteria you need to use on your layout!

I loved this one the best, as 'find a word' puzzles are one of my weaknesses along with a good challenging sudoku puzzle.

Here are a few close up detail shots for you.

Well I can't reveal what the words are as that would be revealing to others the answers ;). But I have had fun using my Tattered Angels Glimmer Glam, Rangers Inks and my favourite go to product of late Rangers Distress Crackle Paint Rock Candy. I am also loving making banners lately, so of course another one features on this layout too, and more Technique Tuesday Studio AE Stamps.

Thanks for stopping by and looking at my layouts... there is still one challenge left and a rainy Friday afternoon so it's possible that the next playful game challenge will be completed yet!!!

Just for fun scrapping

2011-08-13T09:37:00.001+10:00

The last of retreat scrapped pages, this Pirate page was inspired by Lizzi Challenging me to use a gifted piece of paper, One of which I knew I wouldn't use a whole sheet - it was a deserted island scene with palm tree, parrot, rum barrel and treasure chest. But not one to knock back a challenge, I enjoyed working on the fussy cutting of the parrot and barrel. The rest of this page just fell into place. Thanks to Peg and Lizzi for there papers.

I love this page, I had so much fun, but then it is completed in my favourite colours, my totally fail safe zone. Graphic 45 from the Communique collection finished with a little stitching. Tickets are the results of Tim Holtz/Big Shot dies and embossing - I love the end result embossed tickets.

Stitching from JUNE

2011-08-12T09:41:00.002+10:00

Just because I am scrapping doesn't mean I am not stitching, here are some projects that I completed back in May and June for both my Sister and my Mum's birthday gifts.

I made my sister a quick runner, from a stitchery I had drawn up and found in my UFO's recently, I loved the verse and the hearts as I am really enjoying working satin stitch lately. Once I had completed the stitchery it was a toss up whether I created a cushion cover or a runner, but with our families love for runners the runner won the toss.... I decided I wanted to do strips and finish with points....I am happy with the way it turned out and better still my sister loved it!!! Along with the hat box filled with goodies.

Well this photo shares my new favourite book Chookyblue mentioned it over on the Stitch-A-long Blog and I just had to have it...so got my hands on it straight away and it arrived 48 hours before Mum's birthday and as my sister and I had purchased a handbag for her birthday I new I had to make this little coin purse - it was an afternoon project, although I did trace it off a little smaller due to the scan image I used, so I had to defer from the instructions and put the zip in the way I usually do...but I love it and Mum thought it was cute too!!

In the background of this first shot it a secret squirrel project that will be revealed soon.

AUGUST 2011 - White with 1

2011-08-11T08:18:00.002+10:00

This months WHITE WITH 1 CHALLENGE was WHITE + PURPLE + DOODLING

I love purple, and found it funny that I had these photos on my desk when packing for Retreat, so they had to go. although I did find that I didn't pack much beyond purple ribbon and one piece of purple paper and my glimmer mist and thread. So when it came to working on this layout I was struggling a bit, but then inspiration struck, quilting supplies in the car. So I had packing my stitching bag, I don't really go anywhere with out it. So I was lucky I had my hexagons that with the white fabric from my stash, got me going...I got out the glimmer mists, and started spraying my fabrics, then sat outside enjoying the view stitching my hexagons, to create my large flower, a scrap of fabric was gathered into a pinwheel flower, scrap of wire created my bird nest. I got to use my Handmade stamp (that was included in the exclusive Forever Always Creative Kit for August). Big shot got a workout with the Tim Holtz Ticket Die, added some stamps, some doodle template stitching, and then some pen doodled stitching.

Here are a few close up detail shots for you.

Thanks for stopping by to check out my creations!!!

AUGUST 2011 - 123 Challenge

2011-08-10T12:39:00.001+10:00

Another layout completed at Retreat was the August 2011 123 Challenge.

This month the challenge criteria is

WORD: What
COLOUR: Black
TECHNIQUE: Multi-photos

Totally my thing when it comes to using Black it's one of my basics, so I felt really comfortable with this challenge. Bianca had recently taken this photo of my Mum and Dad at my Birthday, and I just love it!!!

I really enjoyed working on this layout, I had fun making my banner using the Echo Park For the Record Advertisment paper from the new stock that arrived at Forever Always recently. I also used my Tim Holtz Tattered Florals Die on the big shot to create a flower using the Cabbage Rose Tutorial from this previous blog post.

Here are some closeups

Thanks for looking.

AUGUST 2011 KRAFT IT UP

2011-08-09T19:10:00.001+10:00

Retreat layouts on the roll out - achieved 5 layouts and 3 of those being August Challenges, so happy with myself....will share over the next few days.

First up is the Kraft it Up and the challenge for August is a sketch challenge, a gorgeous multi photo sketch from Page Maps

I loved the multi image sketch, and found it fitted these photos when I rotated the sketch to the right. I completed my layout on Kraft with the addition of a Kraft Scraps. I used strips to imitate the old bridge and these also fitted with the textured slashes on the sketch, I inked the edges with Rangers Tim Holtz Distress Vintage Photo Ink. Another Kraft Scrap got embossed with my Sizzix Big Shot using my newest addition to my stash, the Tim Holtz Texture Fades Embossing Patchwork Folder, which I then swiped with my Rangers Tim Holtz Distress Peeled Paint ink pad. Using the Sizzix Big Shot I also cut out a Tim Holtz Hanging Sign Die, which I then painted with Rangers Distress Crackle Vintage Photo Paint - I didn't get as good a finish as I do when I use the Rock Candy, so I have swiped an assortment of inks over it to help show up the crackles. Embellishments are an assortment of purchased and handmade items. My Kraft hidden tag with details on the bridge is a Typo Tag stamped with Technique Tuesday Ali Edwards Stamp. Jenni Bowlin chipboard buttons are inked with the vintage photo ink and tied with We R Memory Keepers Sew Easy Floss - Bakers Twine Neutral. I have pinch pleated a piece of lime fabric again to create those bridge planks that I loved in my photos.

Here are a few close up detail shots for you.

FOREVER ALWAYS AUGUST 2011 SKETCH CHALLENGE

2011-08-05T10:19:00.000+10:00

Well I always find a great kickstart to a missing mojo is a sketch, and I have found that working my way back into the saddle has been aided with some sketches, and sometimes it helps to have a few of the trouble points like colour sorted too, so this months Forever Always Sketch was a great one with the aid of the Belle Magazine to help out....

As with all sketches, sometimes it is the skeleton that I start with and then extend, so although the sketch only features one photo I have gone multi with a strip of smaller photos telling the rest of the story in my layout.

I did enjoy this layout hope it helps to inspire you to give it a go too...remember you have until the end of the month to share your link here and the image in our gallery.

Pillow Passion

2011-08-03T11:31:00.000+10:00

Well it's all in the title, I have a passion for home furnishings really, love to make my home feel loved and cosy, and I think you would all have to agree that a pillow or a stack of them makes a space feel so much cosier?

So I thought I would share just a few of my latest creations - yep I have been making pillows again, and loving the cosy feel around the home, mix in a few quilts, and my home is nice a cosy.

I think one of the reasons I love pillows, is that you don't need much fabric and when I buy a really awesome fabric, you know you all have that item that you love to have but don't and can't use because you love it so much....well make a cushion then you can walk by or sit with it and admire that wonderful fabric all the time instead of when you open our favourite fabric draw ( go on I know you all have that secret stash to use for a special occasion but it never happens)

And Pillows are easy peasy, I love to put zippers in, but having done Home EC at school I find zippers easy, perhaps it was Mrs O'Neil she seemed such a daunting lady, but she showed me how to do a zipper and it's so easy. I did a web search for tutorials...and Prudent Baby has a tutorial , that shows how I do it, well kind of - and yes she goes on about the fear of a zipper, and when the girls on my Sunday Monthly Sewing group do cushions they put Velcro and buttons - a) they like the button look, but b) they have a huge fear of zippers - but really they are easy.

You can still see my threads from my quick un picking (smiles)

But there are many tutorials out there and Sew Mama Sews Blog has an awesome one that I would love to try one day too.

The one above I shared with you a few blog posts ago, when it was in the stitching stage - it was one of our Monthly Sunday Sewing Bee projects - it has some embroidery red work, and a little quilting.

This next one, that appeared in the top image, is my latest and most favourite, it was my choice for last months Monthly Sewing Bee project and I just loved it when I saw the tutorial online, The Sprocket Pillow Tutorial from Cluck Cluck Sews Blog. I have added the stitchery to the project, and each one of us completed them differently, My sisters is awesome - see the red/black and white one below.

I love the sprocket design, and the colours in the tutorial were just so bright and fresh, and having just completed my Gingham Girls Quilt the scraps were perfect and they are now cosied up together by the french doors, just a nice spot to sit, when it's too cold outside.

Well, I hope I have inspired you to be creative and to part with some of your "to precious to use but must have in my stash fabric" and make a cushion, be brave and try a zipper...go on, you know you want too!!!

I {heart} Cushions

August 2011 Forever Always KIT RELEASE

2011-08-01T07:00:00.001+10:00

Augusts Kit was inspired by my passion with the Block this year, we are loving the way Josh and Jenna are decorating their House, it's really the way we decorate with that old and new mix....so when I saw there Bedroom reveal a few weeks back it was perfect for the products I had purchased, so I got to Packing the kits and then into creating....I do hope you like what you see, I really fell in love with all the colours and tones in this one....

As far as kits go, I really went all out and even included a vintage amber bottle filled with buttons, I was so inspired when creating it....but it didn't stop there, my layouts got my MOJO flowing too. I so hope you enjoy this kit, and all that I have included....here are my samples.!!!

I love the hand-dyed lace and flower - they match perfectly !!!

This layout I added from my stash to the Kit supplies some glimmer mist, thread that I dyed with my glimmer mist and the stamps which are Technique Tuesday's Ali Edwards Exclusives, Ink and a couple of staples.

Included in this months Kit are some punched Metal Shim Tickets, I have used my stazon ink to stamp on one for this layout. I have also used the bird Stamp that is included in your kit to make myself a bird transparency - yes I have stamped it onto some of those millions of kept plastic packaging...that I have kept for ever.!!!

I have used extra to the kit in this layout my glimmer mist, glimmer glam and distress crackle, along with Technique Tuesday Ali Edwards Exclusive Stamps, Ink & staples.

If you haven't guessed, I am really into the glimmer glam/crackle/ink combo on my chipboard, it features again. I have also made a banner using the bakers twine that is in the kit and it is fixed to the page with the brads from the kit as well.

This layout included extras - chipboard hanger, wire, glimmer mist, glimmer glam and distress crackle, along with Technique Tuesday Ali Edwards Exclusive Stamps, & Ink.

There is so much left over in this Kit, it really has enough to complete perhaps another page or two!! In my clean up, I couldn't help but use some of the little bits and bobs from my scrap bin, to create a card that was needed as well. I love how Journal blocks create Quick Cards lately too!!!

If you like this Kit, you can purchase it here - after 6pm on the 1st August 2011, while stocks last!!!

July is my Birthday Month

2011-07-31T21:01:00.001+10:00

I turned 43 this month and had a great weekend with family although I was still unwell having been diagnosed with diverticulitis almost 10 days prior, I was still in pain and on 2 different antibiotics, but that doesn't mean I wasn't spoilt totally....here are a few pictures of my spoils, and the food the family cooked for me.

We shared dinner with my family on the Saturday night, and it was Masterchef judging by all 10 of us....and on a whole I think the average was a 9....well presented on all dishes. Recipes can be found over on FA Family Recipes Blog

Gifts galore - totally spoilt!!!

Handmade Babushkas from my Sister

A Collection of Vintage sewing supplies, those tins are all filled with Buttons from Hubby and the Kids and yes they were all hidden in that little Vintage suitcase at the top!!!

Some pretties for the Deck, looking at that photo - that pipe is to be removed and then painting of the wall and the hanger will really finish those little candle lights off!!!

White with 1

2011-07-31T17:51:00.000+10:00

Last of the July challenges - had hoped to do a few more but with working on the layouts for Augusts Kit Reveal hasn't allowed it today!!! Also blogger wasn't playing nice today when I realised that I hadn't posted my layouts.....so it's taken almost all day between soaking up the sun when i needed a break to get them done....so here is another installment in the paper creating....

So this months July's WHITE WITH 1 CHALLENGE was WHITE + AQUA/TEAL + CHIPBOARD **Your chipboard pieces can be raw, covered with paper, paint glimmer mist etc...

I was so on a roll between my Tattered Angels Glimmer Glam Mermaid and Turquoise blue Glimmer mist, and then I had to use the Rangers Distress Crackle throw in some white paint and my chipboard was happy....then just because I had a new toy for making those lovely perfectly cut diamonds it was onto strings of banners....love how it all came together even colouring in my Jenni Bowlin Button with pencils...it was all art on the go and you should have seen my hands.....that blue just doesn't come off!!!

Here are a few close up detail shots for you.

Well I am now tucked inside by the heater blogging again, so you might see a few more posts before the night is out. seeing ashubby is cooking dinner - Cajun Fish with Rice Pilaf......YUM, I am free to blog!!!

Thanks for stopping by to check out my creations!!!

SCRAP THE GIRLS July 2011

2011-07-31T15:15:00.000+10:00

Yep July has been the mojo month, lot's to share, just got to get the blogging happening, trust me to leave it all to the end of the month to share and then have blogger issues....arggh lucky the day isn't over yet and this post seems to be working.....finally....LOL

So this months Scrap the girls July's challenge is scrap a Layout using this album cover by ‘Pink’ ‘Greatest Hits….So Far’ as your inspiration.

Choose the colours, design, words whatever grabs you and use them to create your layout, girls only of course, AND you had to choose any song title or lyrics by Pink and use them anywhere on your layout, either as a title on your page or in your journaling.

I LOVE PINK so this was a perfect challenge for me this month totally got inspired to create and here is my layout inspired by the above album cover and the title is from PINK's song "Cuz i Can" from her "I'm Not Dead" Album that was released in 2006.

I loved the pink black and white challenge it was a good one to get me going again this month.

Thanks for looking, I truly hope your out enjoying this amazing sunny day in Sydney!!! The weather is amazing!!! sitting in the backyard on my deck blogging drinking tea....just awesome!!!

Scrapping -July 123 Challenge

2011-07-03T17:27:00.000+10:00

OK, don't faint, but I have scrapped, and really loved it, I totally forgot what it was like to get messy and creative with glimmer glam and ink and crackle paints...OH MY!!!

Yesterday Tiffany joined me for some scrapping in the studio, whilst I was in the mood to scrap, as per our normal scrap/chat session, we chatted more than i scrapped, but I did have a blast and got the beginnings of the July 123 Challenge happening, before we had a nice bowl of soup in the dining room, then back to chatting oops scrapping for tiff and messy messy inking and painting for me, all before Tiff headed off home and I decided that was me for the day.

So Today after a lazy morning, chatting on the phone with friends I haven't seen in a while, I did the dishes and headed out to the studio, I was joined by another friend I haven't seen in weeks and whilst she stitched, I stitched buttons to flowers and finished working on my layout.

I love the 123 Challenges and used to join in every month, but having been on a bit of no scrap mojo zone, it's been a while since I did one, and trying to get the juices flowing did a little blog hop before I started creating, and after reading this months criteria I decided it was the month to get the juices flowing with the criteria of setting a scene it sounded like the perfect way to get my hands dirty ...and I did get dirty and messy!

The criteria for this month was:
COLOUR: AQUA/TEAL
TECHNIQUE: Create A Scene
WORD: "THING" - could be anything, everything, something etc...

I had so much fun playing with all my forgotten tools with this one. I used the big shot to dry emboss with a damask pattern, then I swiped it with some Tattered Angels Glimmer Glam, then painted it with Rangers Distress Crackle Paint Rock Candy before sponging with some of Rangers Distress Ink, I love the finished look....

I used the same effect on some book page flowers that I cut with the Tim Holtz Tattered Flowers Die - I love how the Rock Candy has lifted the edges so slightly.

Then with the ink out I decided to use some of my Technique Tuesday Stamps that I have been receiving monthly but not using.....So I got to stamping my background with them, once stamped I then got out the colouring pencils and coloured in some of the words - yep the inner artist finally came out to play I tell you!!!

I really had fun!!! Let's hope the mojo stays!!!

Multi-Tasking at its BEST!! Sew-a-thon!!!

2011-06-18T16:03:00.000+10:00

Well it's been a while since I shared some sewing, but just let me warn you it's not because I haven't done any, I have been very very busy - well when you have a cold there is nothing better than to snuggle under a quilt with either a book or some stitching....and yep that's what I have done for the past month and a half - and the books well they haven't all been novels, a few have been inspirational to say the least!!! So here are some pictures of what I have been up to....

Well back in April when I went to Nelson's Bay for a Holiday, I purchased the first 2 copies of these books so that I had some holiday inspiration, well let's just say I got Inspired. With the help of the little craft shop in Anna Bay I purchased my first set of Hexagon Papers and a set of templates and off I have gone....I am thoroughly enjoying the totally hand pieced fun of this project - It will be my first completely hand worked quilt and I am feeling proud all ready.

Above is just the beginnings, I have stitched numerous yes I have lost count of the number of Hexagons I have created so far, but the flowers are coming along nicely and I have managed to piece 4 blocks together so far. I have been using the Bliss Jelly Roll that I purchased months ago and it is working perfectly I think I will be short fabric, but luckily it is similar colours to my Gingham Girls Quilt so I have managed to pop some of the left overs from that into my stash to cut out when next I sit and cut and baste. I have run out of my Sewline Glue Pen - so will be picking up another at the Quilt Show when I go next week to Darling Harbour. Since watching a demonstration of it last year at the fair with Sue Daley I think it is amazing. I also need some more Hexagon Papers. Yes that shopping list has started.

My Gingham girls quilt, is all quilted, I have enjoyed quilting it over the last month, and stitching a lovely little quilt label to match as well. I have spent some time today, readying myself with lots of hand sewing projects to travel with me to my sisters and my monthly sewing bee that is near her tomorrow, so a sleep over with some hand stitching will be going with me. I love this quilt in all it's brightness and quirky patterns

This is the Stitching Bee project for tomorrow, as I am traveling I don't like to bring my Sewing Machine. So have made it ready to do the little bit of hand quilting, so you can see lots of busy embroidery stitching has been happening.

Below you can see that this cushion is quited large with patchworked borders, I have completed my back to there isn't much left to do on this and will be completed. I have worked the zipper into the back panel already. So quilting and then put the back to the front....hopefully this planning will prove lots of finished projects to share next week.

Life is Beautiful BOM quilt progress - yes all stitching ago - Lot's has been done. Total of 18 stitcheries completed - be warned many photos!!!

Loving the fabric collection coming with this BOM, it's so me!!! can't wait to start putting it together.

These two little ones I have drawn my own drawings for as I wasn't fussed on the images that came with the quotes, the one on the left inspired by the Vignette Magazine BOM and the one on the right well..it' fits the quote better than the fish that was on there...but still not sure on it, although I love the effect of the variegated thread on the satin stitch.

With 6 More traced and ready to go, another ready to work on project.

Gardeners Journal hasn't been forgotten, I only have 4 more blocks to stitch, so it's coming along but just as a slower pace

Yep and here is some more of those new books, I have been drooling over, yep ear marked a couple of projects already, and one is already traced as a wee birthday project for my MUM....best get to it.....and the one below, just a sneak of another birthday project for my SISTER.

Not to mention the almost finishes below, just need some jute and some more time, these are the last two months - monthly sewing projects that I have not finished, as well there is a bookmark but as to where it is, I have no Idea, I did make it and sew most of it by hand too....oh well that's me for today.!! The sewing room is looking neater I have to say, working my way through the mess, completing and preparing projects as I go!!

Oh and looky new fabric I wonder what I will make with this...

For the love of Apron History

2011-06-17T12:20:00.000+10:00

Well it's no secret that I love cooking, but did you know that I love aprons too!! Yes I wear them, but not all the time, but there is usually always one hanging on the hook ready to be put on just by the kitchen doorway, my favourites are handmade ones, that I recieved as gifts and from an Apron swap that I hosted. But I also have a collection of vintage ones that need finishing off, they have been handed down by MIL, most of which she stitched during her time in Army Training.

They are stunning, from the crinolin ladies to the sexy legged lasses and the even more wonderful stitch work of some amazing flowers. .

The work that was in this one that I gave away was just stunning in it's Australian Native Flora. I hope one day to complete the remaining vintage ones I have in the same way with quilting and binding, so that they can last the test of time, in our family longer.

So it comes as no surprise that when i recieved this email of the History of Aprons, I just knew I had to share it beyond the email that it was, and then in search of some more images I realised that it has been shared many times over on blogs and websites....so perhaps you have read it before, but I am sure it will make you smile some more.

The History of 'APRONS'

The principal use of Grandma's apron was to protect the dress underneath because she only had a few. It was also because it was easier to wash aprons than dresses and aprons used less material. But along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.

It was wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.

From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs, fussy chicks, and sometimes half-hatched eggs to be finished in the warming oven.

When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids.. And when the weather was cold Grandma wrapped it around her arms. Those big old aprons wiped many a perspiring brow,bent over the hot wood stove. Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls. In the fall, the apron was used to bring in apples that had fallen from the trees. When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds. When dinner was ready, Grandma walked out onto the porch, waved her apron, and the men folk knew it was time to come in from the fields to dinner.

It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace that 'old-time apron' that served so many purposes.

REMEMBER:

Grandma used to set her hot baked apple pies on the window sill to cool. Her granddaughters set theirs on the window sill to thaw.

They would go crazy now trying to figure out how many germs were on that apron. I don't think I ever caught anything from an apron - but love...

Cooking up a storm....

2011-06-08T17:59:00.000+10:00

WOW, thanks for the lovely comments ladies, I really enjoy hearing from you. So thanks for Commenting.

Recently having been sickly, we all want yummy dinners and being too sick for work, the one thing getting done is cooking delicious meals. So be sure to check out my other Blog FA FAMILY RECIPES to see our versions and images of great recipes.

Veal Osso Bucco with Cannelini Beans - Masterchef recipe

Tomato Soup with Cashew and Coconut Sambal

Chocolate Cake

Baked Ricotta Gnocchi

Mid-Loin Pork Chops with Orange, Fennel and Rosemary

Tonight it is lamb shanks....promise to share once we have tasted it....the house is smelling YUMMO!!!

Turning 21 and ahoy me hearties its a PIRATE party!!!

2011-06-06T00:25:00.001+10:00

WELL it happened, my baby turned 21, not sure how or why or really when I became the mother of a 21yr old....but it did, and all those cliches are true it happens in a blink of an eye.

We started the day with a wonderful breakfast spread, that I cooked for her before she had to go to work....

Then I backed up a wonderful cake that you can find the recipe over here on my RECIPE BLOG, yep it's one of those must have recipes - so happy to share.

and this cake was shared with family and friends at what used to be our family favourite restaurant in DEE WHY moltofino's which is no more known as this but is now the AUBERGINE and it is bound to become one of our new favourites...the food was amazing...we all had a great time and ate way too much...just what birthday's are all about!!

Then the work continued on the house and it was really down to the wire, there were tears shed on the party day, and many moments when we didn't think it would happen well not on the deck that in the early hours of the morning on the day of the party was not even started but well the gods were shining on us all, and yes we pulled out that very last minute 30 minute makeover and it turned our backyard into the wonderful glittery shimmering boat deck that played host to many a pirate, wench, deckhand and even a parrot - yep the photos can tell you it all...from the Tequila shots, to the cake let the photos show you what fun we had.

ahh even the breakfast the day after....was very much enjoyed by all!!!

Renovations

2011-06-05T15:34:00.000+10:00

Well, we are not complete, but happily living with what we have achieved...it's the little finishing off bits that need doing now.

Sadly the flu has stopped most, and well the flu perhaps could have been brought on

1. from the total exhaustion of achieving almost 4 room makeovers in under 2 months,

2. the stress of a 21st party deadline, yep we were still hammering in nails on the decking at 6.15pm of a 6.30 party or

3. the whinging neighbour who has made our life a misery whilst complaining about privacy issues that don't really exist.

So needless to say, the finishing off is requiring a council visit, but hopefully not too long now and we will be allowed to continue and complete what we hope to be a wonderful addition to our home.

Here is a selection of photos detailing bits and pieces.

Power points need to be completed and remainder of tiling to be finished here. But oh how I love to bake in this wonderful kitchen, with it's amazing stove and awesome CeasarStone Benches.

The fret work, really took me a while to work out, and to convince both my Husband and daughter to include it, but we all have to agree it has become a perfect addition and I love that I MADE IT MYSELF!!!... I am loving my chalkboard wall, and the recipe holder mounted, (well we need to fix this one, as the hooks just weren't Strong enough - so a little more thinking needed on this one)

The cover panels are all that is left to be completed here above the fridge, but seems to be causing some concern for hubby, but I am sure he can manage it. Also need to mount a locking system into the window/servery for the back kitchen deck area. And more tiling, - this is my job the tiling, so lets hope once this cold is gone I can get onto it ASAP!!

Loving the fridge, and well the ice-maker is all most of us that wish for one had ever hoped for, we drink everything with crushed ice now!! LOL.

Corner cupboard, is still not 100% happy with it, just can't put my finger on what it is that I am not happy with though!!! Perhaps I am just nitpicking for the sake of it.

Sink - Love it
Tap - Love it
Under sink Bins - LOVE IT!!

So IKEA we (heart) you!!

More of that fret work that I love, a cupboard door still to be put on, but gosh I love the colour, this room just makes me want to smile. I also love our addition of the little shelf around the room, it's just perfect for all my little bits and bobs on display.

The whole room has come together and my eclectic mix of furniture works, I would like a larger dresser one day, but for now this one works. I have the curtains to do here and the painting of a few more dining chairs, and one day we may purchase that bigger one we are dreaming of but for now it works.

The floors just shine in here with the sun pouring in, so loving what we have achieved.

We still have this section of the room to complete, a false wall is being built, fly screen doors, painting and the surrounds to the french doors, but all in all its getting there.

The pantry works....happy with the IKEA drawer units here, they work a treat for storage, and units being able to be rolled out is even more perfect for happy grocery putting away, or rolling into the kitchen for a big bake off!!

Handbag hook works, too...same as the keys...well at least I always know where mine are!!!

Yep more below of that eclectic furniture mix that works.

The banister and handrails still need a couple more coats of paint, but that's the leading into upstairs which all needs a coat of paint - we are hoping to get the carpet come July, so guessing the next few weeks will be busy with painting chores if this is to come to fruition.

Below more shiny floors, yep loving the new no blinds, and the curtains are getting there, but that sunshine coming in on a winters day is oh so warming.

Let's walk outside now, to the new deck, well let's just say there is heaps to do, besides the obvious staining of the deck. the stairs and pathway leading to the studio will be be wonderful once, council approves the job!!

As for this little piece of heaven that seats many for meals, we can't wait to share. But alas this couch is my zone, for books and a cuppa even whilst we are awaiting to hear if it will be all allowed.

Well that's a little peak into what we have been up too, and what is still to be achieved. Thanks for stopping by to have a look see...hope we inspire you to get out there and give it ago, you can do anything if you put your mind and your body into it!!!

Books, Books, Books

2011-06-04T16:33:00.000+10:00

Although lately I have been spending loads of time with my new best friends, the aloe vera tissue and the buttermenthols....I have had plenty of time to do other things that don't cause too much movement...that might cause me to cough and splutter and that would be with my all time passion of reading...yep those books have called me...back to bed many times over the last few weeks.

I have enjoyed many books, and the pile is ever growing beside my bed.

I would have to say of the latest reads in my reading list in the side bar over there>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> the ones that effected me the most would be the Lisa Genova LEFT NEGLECTED and the Jodi Picoult SING YOU HOME, both books cover hot topics - this latest from Jodi really got me thinking. I love the way she writes about tough issues, which make you think what is right, what is a family today...and I loved being able to listen to songs that Jodi had written too..

This one in particular touched my heart Sammy's Song - you can listen to it here, but just the words touched me too.

Sammy’s Song

It's five AM, we're in the kitchen, after a nightmare

We're making pancakes and there's batter on your face, your hair

The sun comes up and paints the sky, and you just stop and stare

Do it again, you say, as if I might have hung it there.

I don't remember who I was before you came
I know the life I have will never be the same
You think my arms are a fortress
You think I have all the answers
You know it’s a fact
I love you to the moon and back.

And now you're nine, under the covers, and your eyes are bright
With dreams of princesses and fairy dust and fearless knights
Just one more page, you beg, but I turn out the light
You find me, even in the dark, and hold me tight.
I don't remember who I was before you came

I swear this love's so big it doesn't have a name

You think my arms are a fortress
You think I have all the answers
You know it’s a fact
I love you to the moon and back.

Bridge:
I'll be your shoulder to cry on
I’ll teach you all that I know
When it’s time to break free I'll
Somehow be strong and let go.

Verse 3:
Now you are thirteen and you tell me that you've just been kissed
It's no big deal, you say, but you glow as you reminisce.
I always knew that one day it would come to this
Just underestimated all the moments I would miss.
I don't remember who I was before you came
My heart was yours before you ever staked a claim.
I’ll watch you take the wheel now
Find your own sense of direction
You’re right on track
Keep heading to the moon and back.
Baby, I’ve loved you to the moon and back.

and well what can I say I love to quilt and the Jennifer Chiaverini books are just like a good comforting cuppa....I can highly reccommend them for just good everyday reading...the laters The sugar camp quilt covers some history on slave travels with secrets hidden in the quilts hanging on the washing line ...love it!!!

And I have read a few pages into the Ireland Awakening - which is drenched in history and dates....

What are you reading right now????

Back again

2011-06-03T12:47:00.000+10:00

Well I know it's a long time between posts and it's impossible to catch up on all that has been happening in my life....so I won't try, I will just share some posts that have begun and never finished over the next few weeks, along with what is happening right now....so at the moment, I will share this little piece of our Dining room, and my thoughts on today, so aptly caught in this image

Graduation PROUDNESS

2011-04-01T16:53:00.002+11:00

Words can't describe how PROUD I am of my daughter today!

Let me tell you... it was a long morning, and I help back tears, keeping my emotions in control, I was so excited for Bianca, yep I am welling up know as I write this!!! But letting the happy tears fall now, as I can't be reprimanded by anyone now!!! Just looking at these photos and trying to put into words how proud I am well they are falling easily now.

The ceremony was wonderful, and sharing lunch after with my sister and parents even more so, just knowing how proud we all were.

I can't believe how putting on that gown made her look so grown up, and how beautiful she looked – and here come the floodgates!! She was sooooo tall, so confident, so happy! Ear to ear grin, let alone the looks on her Grandparents or Us for that matter....We just wished she had allowed us to do the WHOOP WHOOP yelling that other parents (not many) did.!!!

Just AWESOME! PROUD!!! PROUD!!! PROUD!!!

Worth all the late night rants over extended time lines and stress......very very Proud did I mention how proud!!!

The days are getting longer

2011-03-31T23:36:00.000+11:00

Well actually we are only 2 days short of the end of daylight savings, but with all this work on the Reno's we are certainly burning the candles long and hard.

let's do a recap, bit more than the week long this post....been a tad busy.

going back to last Wednesday, they came and were so quick, doing the floors they looks stunning

And lucky for us it was an out to dinner for a birthday, so we avoided most of the smells of the polyurethane. I did pop buckets around with Eucalyptus in them so it was not too bad when we came home either.

Thursday 24th

For the life of me can't remember what I did.!!! But I know I was super busy!!!

Friday 25th

Flatpak kitchen here we come, we began putting together the cupboards!!!

Also visited at Bunnings and got the bargain column heater for the new deck, and got Carpet Samples.

Saturday

Family army descended upon us, with helping hands. I painted the skirting boards in the kitchen - well one coat. The Family attacked the back deck, so that its ready for the new one to be built ......now these photos scare me.....LOL what a mess, and there isn't a photo of the skeleton they found or the sewerage overalls that my niece wore, just because she wanted to, or photos of her on the roof!!!

The clowns were at it again, even my mobile phone camera isn't safe anymore!!!

What a day, finished it off with dinner with my parents and a live show - Reg and Nancy, I enjoyed it but I did feel that it was a wind up - Reg didn't really perform as much as he has in the past.

Sunday

What a day, up early as all the family were still here, so that's 10 to shower. The kids were heading to the Zoo, us grown up girls had our monthly sewing bee, and the boys were putting the kitchen together. So before all that could start it was breakfast, and I still had 2 coats of paint to get on the skirting boards in the kitchen. (nobody else wanted to put paint anywhere near the shiny new floorboards....so I got in and did those whilst Al was out cooking breakfast, one coat down and I was called for breakfast, so I went to wash up and stepped over the vacuum which seems to be an ornament in the middle of the floor at the moment, as we are constantly cleaning up something, but on my return to the table, I went to step over and nope tripped, went down like a very huge sack of spuds, hurting everything in the process. But I soldiered on, at breakfast, then chopped up the veggies for the Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls that I was taking to the sewing bee luncheon, then straight down on the floor and did the 2nd coat of paint on the skirts, well I think shock started to hit in around, then I had a shower, and then limped to the car, got to the sewing bee and ended up on a lounge with painkillers and a quilt over me.....out for the count I was, not much sewing was done by me, and needless to say no share of photo either. But I will complete and share again soon.

We also managed to eat out for dinner that night (thanks to a valued friend) lots of veggies and a wonderful Sunday roast lamb!!

Well the boys worked a storm and this little video is footage of the kitchen so far.- care of Miss Bianca.

Monday

Still feeling rather sore and sorry for myself and bruised internally, shoulder and knee were quiet painful, I decided not to go to Sewing, as Bianca's uni graduation outfit needed to be ordered, so it was a trip into the city, then across to Ikea, to order the units for above the fridge - many hours later and without the help of the wonderful staff we have had we then had to load so much into the car it was ridiculous - But Bianca and I struggled, I don't have the photos of her but she does, sadly we travelled I think quiet illegally but she did have a seat belt on. Once home we proceeded to build the units we purchased.

I decided I needed a sanity break and headed off to my Monday night Quilting group.

Tuesday

CeasarStone Benches were to be measured today, after rising early to let them in, we received a phone call letting us know the guy had called in sick, so no measure up today. Back to working on the flatpaks - but we think the unhelpful service from Monday has caused issues. So lots of head scratching, moving of boxes and furniture but not much achieved on the big scale.

Wednesday

Well another morning, and lots to do - first up was working out if we had the wrong items...still think we do.

I had been requested to attend the police station for a statement, so it was out get that done, then it was a few groceries, and a gift or two, home just in time for the Ceasarstone Guy to measure up. Then it was phone Ikea and discuss the purchases - yup we had been sold the wrong units - so load it all into the car, built and all, and return - so another day down, in the storm loaded with built units we headed back and returned - then back up to the planning floor and re planned the fridge areas and pantry - then it was back to the warehouse for a reload and home - exhausted much I WAS!!!

Thursday

Well that's today, we have managed to almost completely remove the built in wardrobe from the old bedroom that is now the dining room. package up most of the items, redesign and rebuild the pantry units - finely its right. Start restocking that, sort and cull lots of things, and as I type up this blog, their is the 5th load in the machine and the 4th in the drier for the day, Brian and Bianca are painting some architrave around the door frame, the lounge ceiling (old house cracks) has been bogged ready to sand in the morning, the plaster has been set on the extension of the wall near the kitchen. We are all tired but I am so excited and proud my little girl graduate Uni tomorrow - I can't wait.!!! share pics tomorrow night!!!

10 more days of Renovations....

2011-03-22T12:10:00.002+11:00

Totally over it already, it's certainly a big job.

But the week gone we have achieved little but a lot, if that makes sense, it doesn't look like loads, but each job has taken it's time!!!

Monday

I went to sewing and with the help of the quilting ladies managed to get my 3 layers pinned and ready for quilting....its such a good feeling.

Kitchen front - it was power time, so the day was spent putting in new power points. Sounds small but it's bigger than it sounds. Home in time to find Mr D had forgotten his key to his tool box for Tafe, so it was onto the Mall, to literally throw the keys at him as I drove passed. Then I had an hour to kill before picking up Miss B, so I purchased a book - like I needed a new one to distract me LOL and a coffee and chilled it was nice.

Can recommend it, drew me in totally in that hour Left Neglected by Lisa Genova at it was reduced by 35%

Tuesday

Up early with a load of rubbish for the tip, and supplies to be got at Bunnings, and maybe I could squeeze into spotlight, and the fruit and veg on Mona Vale Road.....hold on put the breaks on the plans, Hubby is in the kitchen waffling to himself, yep that's how he works, measuring for the umpteenth time to be sure his shopping list is sorted - argghhhh, he decides that it is easier to pull down the old ceiling

....just look at the mess, so needless the 8am heading out the door early ended up midday, did the tip, and Bunnings, and the veg...no spotlight trip, too exhausted and not enough hours in the day. Home to tidy and clean up some more dust.

Wednesday

Hubby has to actually attend major training for work, so it's home alone for me and Miss B, so she catches up on some reading, as do I, that book has roped me in!!! Finished of the washing, ironing and make this little fabric basket for a birthday Gift. This Fabric range is Sweet Broderie and I purchased it on Monday from Corrie, of RetroMummy during her clearance sale - one of the little pleasure stops that I did fit in!! :)

Before Mum and Dad arrived with tools to help out. Dad got in and with Bianca's help chopped down a tree fern that is was in the way of the new deck. Hubby home and he set out the next day's chores for the Grandpa and Granddaughter work duo. And the shopping list for Bunnings for Mum and I.

Thursday

Another day of Training for Hubby. And the Granddaughter/Pa Duo are up and at it, drilling and nailing in the last of the floorboards. Lining the walls. They work well together and it is a pleasure to watch.

Bunnings for Mum and I, oh and a coffee and spotlight treat too. Bunnings is just another story all together, why is it that some of the sales assistants are wonderful but others just couldn't be bothered, managed to run into both on this trip, the good did out way the bad, but boy was he bad!!!

Dinner at the club tonight...got to work our way around this no kitchen thing somehow.

Friday

Surprise visit from My sister, which was lovely, moved some things around making more empty space downstairs....more work was done on the lining of the walls. And another trip to the hardware store.!!!

Saturday

Mum and Dad headed home, leaving us to it, I spent the day painting the timber I purchased on Thursday for the fret work frame over the doorway. Hubby continued with the last of the fiddly bits, one last floorboard, and the last of the lining of the walls.

Sunday

Dropping and picking up of children, another trip to the hardware store, connecting and installation of the new down lights, and the replacement extractor fan. I fought with my timber project but I won...and with Hubby's and Mr D's help it was installed.......oh so pretty!! Just more painting to be done!

Then it was pickup from work for the teens and we headed off to my sisters for the 14th Birthday dinner for my Niece, she loved her fabric basket filled with Nail treats....one happy niece with new nails painted for school. We enjoyed a lovely homemade hamburger, her dinner choice, with some wonderful chocolate cake with vanilla icing and strawberries....well this picture shows a little of the laughter (yes laughing so hard the photo is blurry) of the two eldest grandchildren performing food fights in front of their grandparents the laughter was endless...yes I have a special family and the laughter was good medicine for us all!!

the trip home in the rain, left me playing with the camera and I managed to snap these funky lights.

Monday

The new ceiling went in, and more washing, ironing and dusting, we now have working lights!! I won't mentioned the stuffed up sheets of gyprock from the tiredness we are dealing with that created another trip to Bunnings for more gyprock, in the rain, the ruined sheet that didn't even make it in the house due to it being sodden....but I did say I wouldn't mention it!!!! STRESSED MUCH

Tuesday

That's today, so today, Hubby hopes to achieve the cornice up, and the gyprock joins, we are behind schedule as the flooring company comes tomorrow to sand and apply the polyurethane, to the kitchen....and we had hoped to have painted everything but it's just not going to happen. But we will have 3 days off from the kitchen, so we are hoping that the rain will stay away, so we can work on the deck area...yes I have more washing, and ironing and cleaning to do today too. So RAIN please go away!!! I need to get it all dry and not in the drier would be nice!!!

I also have sewing homework to complete for my monthly sewing group that is this coming weekend.

Hope your week was less stressed than mine!!!

Another Week comes to an end

2011-03-13T20:40:00.000+11:00

Well the time if flying by here....way too quickly for my liking.

Tuesday

after the mess of the last few days and the hectic weekend and lack of sleep, I needed just to chill, I think I managed a couple of loads of washing and that's about it. Fitted in a little reading...just can't get into the Irish one yet, so some more quilt series for me

Just steered clear of the mess in the kitchen, and tried to work on the new deck design, but ended up with a huge headache as the programmes I was using were just not working for me, ended up with back to pen and paper - think I have a kind of design worked out. Brian & Bianca made a start on getting the timber floor laid.

Wednesday

Brian worked on finishing of the timber floor down with his trusty tradie assistant Miss Bianca, they are working well.

I got creative and worked on the 21st Birthday invites....just a little finishing off to do now. The burning the edges is taking it's time, but the incense sticks work wonderfully even if a little slow and a little strong on the smell.

Thursday

The old window and door came out and the new window went in.

I cleaned and sorted and cleaned and did I mention cleaned...arggh - washed and ironed and tidied..YUP exhaustion plus today. Orders packed and ready for posting for Forever Always.

Friday

Drizzle on and off and the banging started outside - at least it was undercover so the bricking up of the doorway still began.

So I had a few smalll projects that need working on so that's what I worked on, tracing the sticheries and then sitting back and doing a little stitch work while watching some mind numbing TV....and more work on the invites.

Saturday
The finishing of the brick word above the window was done today, and then a trip to Bunnings and spotlight. Bunnings for the supplies for tomorrow - plumbing is on the agenda, and also the borders on my quilt so it was border fabric and wadding - bargain was had - got to love a bargain 20% off the wading plus my $10 spotlight bonus, and the girl didn't charge me for the metre of fabric, think luck was on my side.
Movies with the family tonight whilst we all burnt the edges of a few more of those invites - who's idea for treasure maps i wonder????
Sunday
Wow, up and out of the house at 8am, groceries at Aldi, dropped Miss B at the bus (she was off to the Art Museum to see the Terracotta Warriors) Home again, then out again, to drive Master D to work and finish the groceries at Coles. Home again - Brian had managed to get a couple of loads of washing done for me, before he hit the plumbing - disconnecting the old taps and relocating the new ones and the water for the filtered water in the NEW Fridge.

I managed to work on the borders - yep all ready to pin the 3 layers tomorrow and start quilting...look how pretty.

Here is shot showing the backing - nice light pink brushed cotton - recycled from the Salvos - at only $1.50 it's got to be the cheapest backing on a quilt I have ever done, and then the bright red and pink dot on the binding.

This is a photo of the finished little projects I worked on as well. Getting in early and finishing off a couple of Christmas Gifts.

Huge Week - image heavy post

2011-03-07T03:31:00.000+11:00

Wow what a week, so much happening and not enough time to blog sorry....but here is a quick rundown.

Tuesday, I felt a little ill, think i got a stomach bug or perhaps just an overdose of excitemnt and anxiety but whatever it was, it knocked me down for the day, but I did manage a haircut, but even that didn't get me going, ususally it would, so I napped in the afternoon.

Wednesday I was picked up by Paula and headed into Darling Harbour for a nice catchup and coffee, and then we met with Belinda Boyce, so nice to meet IRL. We enjoyed a nice lunch in Darling Harbour before we all went our seperate ways. I was Collected by Brian and Bianca and we headed off to put the finishing touches to our Kitchen Plan, we ordered and paid for it SO YIPPEE it's committment time!!! Then we celebrated with a nice Chinese Dinner got to love impeccable service and a nice bottle of wine...no images really but this is the colour of the Ceasarstone Benches in our new kitchen to be.. Almond Rocca

Thursday I spent some time in the Studio with Anne. I worked on a few pages for the Flood Relief Albums. Which was nice to be out in the quiet, while Hubby and kids worked on packing and emptying the kitchen in preparation of the work to begin!!!

Here are some of the pages that I completed at the last 12 hour Crop as well as today.

And this cute Birthday Card for a little man who is turning 2 this weekend who has a love of Elephants.

Friday a day at home, alone should be very production....apart from a few distractions - Timber floor rep came and gave me a quote on my floors, yes that's one less job we need to do... the professionals are coming in to complete them. Delivery of all the new kitchen in flat pack form, hell of a lot of boxes came through my door. Worked on a shared quilt project, managed to square it up and sew on the 2 outside borders, it's ready to be sent off for quilting now lucky for me Corrie is going to Stipple Quilt it on her machine.!! I have traded to do the binding on a few quilts in return...love to bind!!!

Saturday - Robyn, Margot and Lizzi joined me for the 12 hour crop in the studio, whilst Brian and the kids removed the existing kitchen!!!

These are the pages I completed at the crop

Then I completed these 4 covers and also back covers (not pictured)

You can see more on the albums over at this blog post

Sunday I realised that although I had worked like a trouper I had not replenished with enough water, so was woken with a major headache, and whats worse i knew that I had things to do and was going to be in a house full of noise...yep Brian worked like a trooper and created enough dust to fill 10 houses I think cutting out the old concrete floor...making channels so that the old floor boards we have collected can be matched up to the existing ones in the new kitchen.

I popped out for a while and enjoyed a coffee, the noise and dust just weren't working for me. Then came home and worked like a trojen on my my Gingham Girls Quilt - finished all but two borders on it,

then it was cleaning up of dust, washing catchup and binding of the Rising Flood Waters Albums for delivery tomorrow.

Then it was blogging...best get to bed!!!