Bilberry Grove

Bye .............. for now at least!

2012-01-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

I see comments from lots of other bloggers about the need for taking a break from blogging ..... and for varying reasons. Blogging can become a bit addictive for some of us (there are worse addictions of course) and I definitely think that I was an addict! Since my second divorce (about 5 years ago) I’d been content to spend a lot of my spare time on my own enjoying my sewing .... then add to that, the discovery of blogging (blogs about sewing) oh joy – I was hooked, and every spare minute was spent either blogging or sewing!! Lately though, over the last year or so, since the sudden death of my wonderful brother, Colin, my priorities have changed – I’ve re-evaluated so to speak, and to some degree I’ve lost a bit of interest in my crafting. I now prefer to spend more of my spare time with family and friends, which I’m sure is a healthier and more sociable option to sitting in by myself. SO, this post is just to let you know that I won’t be blogging, at least for now – whether I come back to it another day, well we’ll see.

Anyway, talking about healthier options (which I was), part of my new routine will definitely include more walking (with family/friends), particularly as my best achievement over the last year or so is my weight loss – very proud of myself I am too (as I believe my brother would have been too) – I’ve lost 5½ stone (that’s 77lbs if you’re in the USA) – a shocking amount I know, but I feel so much better for it, and not to sound too big-headed, ........... OK, so I am being big-headed, I look a lot better too. And just to show off about it, here’s a current photograph of me (enjoying a cuppa) ............. which is soooooooo much better than this one taken about 18 months ago at the Festival of Quilts at the NEC.

Now if you happen to be a reader of the ‘Slimming World’ magazine, do keep an eye out, because my Slimming World leader has asked me to submit my success story – she thinks I stand a chance of having my story published. I haven’t submitted anything yet though, so it won’t be for a while – I have to write it yet!!

On the sewing front, I’m not giving it up altogether. As and when I have a spare hour or two, I shall work on this patchwork quilt I started over 2 years ago, but haven’t touched for about 18 months ........ I aim to finish it hopefully this year – well that gives me plenty of time doesn’t it as it’s only the 16th January!!!

So bloggy friends, I thank everyone who has followed my blog, and for all of the friendships that have been made as a result of it. Thank you all for sharing your sewing and your lives, and for the inspiration that I’ve gained. I hope that some of you will keep in touch with me and write. I would welcome contact through emails, and do hope I hear from you. It has been a brilliant and fun experience, and it is hard to believe the 3½ years that have gone by since I started it.

Take care everyone and who knows, I may come back to blogging one of the days!!

Lots of love

More lovely Christmas pressies!!

2011-12-31T10:55:00.000-08:00

Just look at this beautiful redwork embroidery Christmas picture I received from Deb (The Angel and the Pukeko blog). Isn't it beautiful, so much detail and hard work has gone into it - I love it. I plan on getting a nice frame for it eventually, as it deserves to be displayed properly, so that's a task for me in the New Year!

Deb also sent me these rag doll patterns, which I shall keep for another day - I do like them and would love to tackle them one of the days

............ and I also had this cute little 'Dolly Bird' fridge magnet. There was also a very appropriate (for Deb) 'Pukeko' shopping bag, but I forgot to photograph that and it's in the car now as I used it today when I went shopping.

Thanks Deb, I love them all and really appreciate the work you've put into the lovely embroidery.

Anyway folks, this may well be my penultimate blog post, as I shall soon be signing off from blogging - certainly for the time being anyway (Wendy, I will email you soon!) ......... priority's change and life just simply gets in the way at times, but I will explain more in another post. So for now I shall simply say a great big
'HAPPY NEW YEAR' to all my bloggy friends.

Christmas time!

2011-12-22T14:39:00.000-08:00

If only you could get a whiff of this picture ........... you would smell the most wonderful smell – Caramel Apple to be precise!!

This is just part of my Christmas package from my lovely, lovely friend Wendy (Quiet Room blog). The little lady above is described as a ‘Prim Wax Dipped Angel’ and she smells just gorgeous. And that’s exactly what she is – a little rag doll angel who has been dipped in wax (the whole thing)! I’ve never seen one before – quite amazing!! She has a lovely little red dress on and curled wire for her hair. As yet, she is still in the plastic bag – the smell is that strong, I don’t need to take her out of it yet.

And as well as my little angel, Wendy has made these beautiful wool cones – they’re so sweet look at the little Christmas mouse, and the Ginger.

Then there’s one with one of those grubby candles that light up (as demonstrated) .......... and then there’s some candy canes and a bundle of cinnamon sticks. They’re really lovely aren’t they?

And as if that lot isn’t enough, Wendy has also been cross-stitching and look at this beautiful Christmas pillow – I feel another "Gorgeous" coming on here!! But I can’t think of another adjective to describe it, so here goes – it’s blooming GORGEOUS!!

Thank you so much Wendy – they’re wonderful and I love them all.

I suppose while I’m at it I may as well show you what I sent to Wendy a couple of weeks ago. I stuck with wool, as that is Wendy’s favourite. First of all, I made a woolly Christmas pudding pin cushion, perched on an old wooden bobbin (made myself one too actually). I used red glass beads for the berries and added a couple of ceramic Christmas buttons, which can either stay attached, or could be snipped off for use if wanted.

Secondly I made this snowman wall hanging – Wendy loves snowmen, and I really enjoyed making it and was pleased with the outcome, as was Wendy I believe.

Anyway, that’s it for now this side of Christmas, so I wish everyone a

VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS!!

Random Thoughts

2011-11-10T13:48:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been a while, but I finally have something to show - my 'Random Thoughts' cross-stitch! It's only been over 18 months since I last worked on it - February 2010, that was when I set myself the challenge of having it finished by the summer (of 2010) .............. didn't make that then!!! And the only reason I've managed to finish it now is because I've recently been away from work for a prolonged period following surgery and cross-stitch was something I could manage while I was sitting at home healing.

Following is a photograph of the original pattern, which is by the Drawn Thread Company.

You can see that I have tinkered with the pattern a bit, chiefly by changing the verse in the centre. It wasn't that I didn't like the set verse, but once I started working on it again recently, I knew that the verse would have to be something dedicated to my wonderful brother Colin. It's been just over a year now since he was killed when he was knocked off his bicycle and I still find it so difficult to come to terms with the fact that I can't talk to him or see him anymore - I suppose time will help, but it's not working yet!!

Anyway, this is the verse I put in instead, which is a section of a poem that was read out at Colin's funeral.

I hadn't planned to do this, but this is a picture of my lovely brother doing what he was passionate about - cycling (taken in France a few years ago). I love and miss you very much Colin xxxxxxx

Giveaway!!

2011-09-24T14:49:00.000-07:00

I just came across a great Giveaway on Janet’s blog. It’s for a chance to win this great looking book called ‘Patchwork-Play Quilts’ by Lynn Roddy Brown. The book shows you how to use up some of your scrap fabric to make fabulous looking quilts. It’s certainly appealing to me, as using up some of my HUGE hoard is what I’m going to attempt to do once I’ve completed my current project (a cross-stitch sampler).

So, if you want to be in with a chance of winning the book (which is autographed), then pop over to Janet’s blog and leave a comment. The Giveaway closes on Monday 26th September.

Angel Doll

2011-09-04T00:33:00.000-07:00

Having been out of action the last few weeks following admission into hospital for some BIG surgery, which leaves me feeling incredibly tender right now, I have little sewing to show, so (and as I’m not sleeping terribly well because of the surgery), I thought I could show you what I sent to Deb in New Zealand recently for her birthday ...... albeit a very belated birthday pressie (Deb’s birthday was in July!!!).

Anyway, Deb had sent me one of those lovely Tone Finnangar ‘Tilda’ books for my birthday in May and I got the impression (hope I was right!), that Deb rather liked the angel dolls in the book, so being unable to think of anything else to make for her, I set about making this little lady

I love the way you make the flip flop sandals – so easy and yet so effective.

The thing that really surprised me however, was how big the doll came out. Whenever I’ve looked at these dolls, I had assumed they were about the size of a ‘Barbie’ doll, but, No, they’re quite a bit bigger that that!!

Anyway, I’d better not sit at this compute for too long in case I seize up!!

Take care all

TILDA rag doll

2011-08-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

Look familiar?? It’s been well over 2 years since I made my first ‘Tilda’ doll for Katarina for an Easter Swap present (Easter 2009). Little was I to know at the time that ‘Tilda’ would be so popular, because I ended up making about 6 more (to order) ….. and could have made about another 10 if I had given in to the requests I received. Flattered as I was, because they took soooooooo long to make, I decided I wouldn’t make any more – they were stopping me from making other things I really wanted to make. However, somehow earlier in the year Nancy (Promises to Keep blog) managed to twist my arm and persuaded me to make one for her .............. so I decided that while I was making one doll (for Nancy), I may as well make two and that way, I would have a an extra one.

The question now is whether there is still anyone out there interested in buying a ‘Tilda’ rag doll, because this is the ‘spare’ that I intend to sell. All of the others I’ve made have been on the pretty side, but I was always struck by the tomboy images of Tilda and so that’s the way I’ve gone with this one ….. still quite pretty, but in a Tomboyish kind of way …. don’t you just love her brown boots??!!! She has a red blouse and matching red socks and a pair of dungarees made from a lovely chocolate brown floral stripe fabric (including a front pocket)! Her lovely long plaits are made from a deep red wool and she has a pretty red bow in her hair.

This is definitely the very last ‘Tilda’ I shall make (apart from Nancy’s, which is half made), because I really want to get back to working on a patchwork quilt that I haven’t touched for well over a year and I really want to get it finished ……… and then there’s another I want to make after that!! LOL A gluten for punishment, that’s me!!!

So, if there are any interested ‘Tilda’ fans out there, the price in UK sterling is £50, plus the cost of posting and packing, which will obviously be higher the further she has to travel. You can contact me by email or by leaving a comment on this post.

Rosie May and one other!

2011-07-26T01:53:00.000-07:00

So, here are 2 of the 4 rag dolls I’ve been working on lately ............. very definately the last ones I shall be making for a good while to come - time now to get some work done on my half-made patchwork quilt!

Doll number 1 ........... the first one (with no name) is made to order for a friend (for her to give to her friend’s daughter at least - I think anyway), which is why I haven’t named her. I’m rather pleased with the doll and think she looks quite cute and not too quirky, but this is where the pressure comes in – I always worry about whether the customer is going to happy ......... oh, the anguish!!! LOL

She has a pretty peachy colour dress with a scalloped hem and a white Broderie Anglaise dress underneath – she even has some white cotton knickers on look – apologies for such a rude display!!

Her big green eyes are painted and varnished with acrylics and the other features are embroidered. Brown wool for the hair, which is tied up in 2 big bunches with lovely coordinating chiffon type ribbon. And her shoes and socks are also painted and varnished with acrylics, but with added lace detail around the top of the socks, plus a tiny button at the side of the shoes – all rather cute I think – don’t you agree? I love those little thin legs!!!

Doll number 2 ........ who does have a name – Rosie May! She has the same facial and hair details and the same detail for the shoes and socks etc. Rosie is wearing a pretty pink dress with green coordinating trousers made from some Nancy Halvorsen fabrics (from her ‘Garden Song’ range I think), which I had in my stash and which I think is so pretty – I love the pink floral in particular.

Rosie is carrying a basket of pink rosebuds – hence her name I suppose!! And she has a lovely big pink coordinating bow in her hair.

I will probably be selling Rosie May if anyone likes her – contact me to discuss if interested.

Next time, I shall be able to show another one of the dolls I’ve been working on ........ she’s one of those ‘Tilda’ dolls that I originally made a couple of years ago and seemed to be quite popular at the time.

Until next time ...........

A Woolly Carrot!

2011-07-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

Just a little quickie today. I've been abscent a while again because I've been busy trying to complete 4, yes 4 rag dolls ........ and I'm really sick of them by now I can tell you!!! 2 of them are to order, which always makes me feel under pressure, worrying whether they will be good enough. Anyway, that's not what I'm showing today - next time hopefully!! As a bit of light relief from doll makiing, I made up the lovely woolly carrot pincushion that Wendy sent to me recently for my birthday.

It was lovely and easy to make up and looks (almost) good enough to eat!!

More birthday treats!!

2011-06-30T04:15:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s been a while since I posted. Life generally, health worries/problems (now alleviated more or less) and all-round lack of enthusiasm being to blame!!

But now I am prompted to post after receiving my belated birthday gifts from my lovely, lovely, super, clever friend, Wendy (aka the Queen of the ebay ‘wins’!!) – check out her blog for full explanations!!

Anyway, as I said to Wendy in a thank you email last night, I think she knows me better than I know me, because this is what she sent to me:-

First off, a red heart paper weight and wooden heart, which now decorate my lounge and kitchen

Secondly ..... get ready for envy!! Don’t you just love this chocolate polka dot mug/pin cushion – how cute is that, with its ‘Just Another Button Company’ pins? I love the rose pins, they’re so pretty.

Thirdly, this gorgeous ‘Just Another Button Company’ Carrot pincushion kit, which includes both their buttons AND pins. I am a huge fan of ‘Just Another Button Company’ and had been eyeing up their new line of pincushions, so this is right up my street ....... I’m really looking forward to making this up, and again, as I said to Wendy, I think I even understand the instructions!!!

Fourthly!! Look at this beautiful basket of cross-stitch pincushions (or possibly drawer liners) there's 11 of them altogether. Wendy wasn’t sure what to call them, as they came up smaller than she thought they would, but whatever they are, they’re gorgeous – she has put a lot of work into them, which I appreciate as a cross-stitcher myself (sometimes anyway). I may fill the basket with something like rosehips or cones maybe and then put the pincushions on top – something to tinker with anyway!!

And finally, here is everything together ........... who’s a lucky girl then eh?? Yes, it's ME

Already said privately, but now publicly, thank you so very much Wendy for my lovely, lovely pressies – they really did cheer me up when cheering up was needed!!

Look!

2011-05-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

......... at this little lot!!

It was my birthday a few weeks ago (51 – not that I’m counting)!! And yesterday, I received some lovely, lovely pressies from my lovely, lovely friend, Deb, in New Zealand. Deb clearly understands me very well, because she sent me this fabulous ‘Tilda’ book - rag dolls, need I say more?

I have a couple of the ‘Tilda’ books, but not this one! And I’m really looking forward to making this lovely little angel – so, sweet!

I’ve only made a rabbit and a bear from the other books, so it’s gonna’ be fun making a doll. Deb also sent some lovely fabrics to help me along …… isn’t the cup cake case of fabric sweet?

and lastly, Deb also sent me this lovely Garden Sampler cross-stitch, which has a sweet little charm in it – this one will be added to the to-do list!!!!!

THANKS EVER SO Deb – I love them all!

A lovely book!

2011-05-21T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hi all. Just a quickie post, as this morning my giveaway prize from JoJo arrived - 'A Boys Story' by Anni Downs of Hatched and Patched

such a lovely book packed with lots of lovely things to make for little (and not so little) boys. Here are just a couple of pages from the book showing some really super quilts

I just need a little boy to stitch for now ......... I don't mean me personally have a little boy (hells bells!!) - I'm a bit past that now!!! LOL - Actually, I've just remembered, my friend has recently become a grannie for the first time to a gorgeous little chap, so maybe Toby is going to be the recipient of a 'Hatched and Patched' quilt!!

I'm a Winner!!!

2011-05-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

Weeeeeee, I won!!!

I've just had an email from Jo Jo at Home Sweet Home to tell me I won the prize in her recent Giveaway - aren't I the lucky one??!! I've won a copy of Anni Down's (Hatched and Patched) 'A Boy's Story' pattern book. It has several quilt patterns as well as many other cute 'little boy' things to make ..... it's very sweet.

Thanks very much Jo Jo - you're a star!!

Edit to post - If you look at the date of this post and then the date of Jo Jo's post saying that I've won the prize, you'll see that I appear to be telling you about my win before Jo Jo has announced it - a curiosity of the time differences around the globe!!

Easter Bunny!

2011-04-26T03:07:00.000-07:00

I didn’t quite manage to finish my latest project in time for Easter, but here she is anyway – better late than never! Introducing, Bunty, my Easter bunny

Look at those big eyes and those long droopy ears – isn’t she sweet? The pretty floral dress fabric is some that I had in a fabric sale from the USA and have wanted to use for a while now, and her big pink nose is made from a little bit of my wool stash – some I bought from the NEC last year from the Festival of Quilts. I think this is the first bit of the wool I’ve used (been saving it up for I don’t know what!).

I’ve decided not to put my Easter bits away just yet, as it would be a shame to shunt Bunty off into drawer so soon, so I’ll leave her out for another week .... or two maybe.

Well, I have an extra day off work today (yippee!!), but I must get on, as I have to go and buy paint for the new front door I shall be having fitted next weekend.

Easter Time

2011-04-23T07:29:00.000-07:00

This is the first sewing I've managed to do in weeks and it's a pot of Easter bunnies of course - what else could it be!!!

..... and here they are amongst my little Easter/Spring display - the chocolate rabbits and cross-stitch pillow are what I made last year

like my resin rabbit chappie - rather cute I thought?

Happy Easter to everyone - not too many chocolate eggs now - I won't be partaking this year, as I MUST, MUST stick to my diet. Ask me on Monday though!!!!

Pre-Raphaelite Exhibition

2011-04-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

I had a couple of days off work last week and treated myself to a day out to visit an exhibition with my friend Pam (you know, the one who was 60 recently – remember? Shhhhhh – I didn’t say a word!!!!). It was the ‘Poetry of Drawing: Pre-Raphaelite’ Exhibition at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. I’ve always loved this period of art and design ever since I studied William Morris for ‘A’ Level at school.

The exhibition includes works by the original brotherhood members, Rossetti, Millais, Holman-Hunt and John Ruskin and also the 2^nd generation of Pre-Raphaelites, Edward Burne-Jones and Simeon Solomon.

‘Proserpine’ (an ancient Roman Goddess apparently) by Rosetti has to be one of my favourites – I suppose it’s her hair that does it – it’s so beautiful.

I wasn’t really familiar with Simeon Solomon, so it was good to see several of his works there – this is one of them called ‘Bacchus’.

Much of Simeon Solomon’s work was said to have been an attempt to explore his own homosexual identity, which is quite apparent from much of his work on show at the exhibition.

And while we were at the Art Gallery, we also popped in to the ‘Staffordshire Hoard’ Exhibition and it was fascinating to see just how intricate the work was from Anglo Saxon times. This is an example of some Gold decorated with a Latin inscription, but there's lot more besides to see

The Exhibition was free to go into too, so it’s well worth a visit if you’re in the area.

No blog problems!

2011-04-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

Perhaps I shouldn't speak too soon, but I do seem to have sorted my little blog problems out at last. I even think it looks better than before now - I've managed to change my blog title back to black and have even changed the whole thing to a new (and rather cool!!) font ......... I just need something new to blog about now, instead of my blog problems!! Sorry, I will stop going on and on about it now - promise!!

If I get time tomorrow, I'll tell you a little bit about my visit to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery last week.

WELL ...

2011-04-18T14:18:00.000-07:00

...... perhaps you can ignore that last post; I don't know what I did, but I've sort of managed to get my blog back - what you see is the new background I had from Twin Creek Primitives, but at least I've got my bits and pieces back so to speak!! I don't know how I lost it all in the first place ..... and I don't know how I've retrieved it - work that one out!!!!!!!!!!!

What's still not right though is my blog title (Bilberry Grove) in the header - the text was black before and now you can only see half of it - anyone any ideas, as there doesn't seem to be a way to change the font colour.

What on earth have I done

2011-04-18T13:06:00.000-07:00

.... to this blog?!!!!!!!!!

Yesterday, I was attempting to change my blog background to one offered by 'Twin Creek Primitives' blog ........ BIG mistake!!!! Having changed the background, I decided I didn't like it after all, but I have now lost everything from my original blog. My 'favourite blogs' list, my favourite shops, my header picture and even the 'Design' page that allows you to add pictures and all the other things we like to add ..... I can't believe it. Anyone else had a similar problem, as I seem to be stuck with exactly what you now see - that will teach me for messing around I suppose. I can see me having to start all over again from scratch!!

Confused.com!!!!

Another bit of cross-stitch!

2011-04-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

As I’ve got 5 minutes to spare while I wait to hear whether I’ve won the lottery tonight!!!!!!!!!, I thought I’d do a quick post. There’s been very little sewing going on around here lately, but I did finish another cross-stitch scissor/needlecase a couple of weeks ago which was a present for my niece (adopted niece anyway). It matches the pincushion I made for her for Christmas using the ‘little bird’ pattern Patti very kindly shared with me. And in keeping with the heart theme in the pattern, I bought a pair of ‘love’ scissors from Kelmscott Designs ........ I thought they were rather sweet! And just because I can, I finished it off with one of my new ‘handmade’ labels – what a show-off eh?!! Apart from the fact work has been very busy lately, I’ve been taking advantage of the lovely weather we’ve had this weekend and last, and have been outside sprucing up my garden fences, by re-painting them ..... it’s good exercise too!! And there’s plenty more to do tomorrow – oh joy!!!

I just remembered ......

2011-03-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

...... that I forgot (make sense!!!!??) to show you this

a cross-stitch needle/scissor case I made for my friend's 60th (don't tell her I told you!!) birthday in January. I mentioned it a little while back, but in a bit of a senior moment, had forgotten to take any photographs! But when my 60-year old friend (aren't I rotton!!) came for dinner on Saturday, she brought it with her so that I could take a few snaps - unfortunately, it was mid-evening, so the light isn't brilliant. This is the inside:

That's it for now - just a short one this time. I shall have something similar to show soon, as I'm working on another one (another pressie).

Say "Hi" to .........

2011-03-17T12:42:00.000-07:00

....... 'BERRY' - my latest little fabric wonder!!!

She's quite whimsical/quirky looking isn't she? And are you thinking you've perhaps seen her somewhere before? Well, just scroll back up, - and there she is - the little lady on my 'Bilberry Grove' banner at the top of my blog. I've been meaning to make a rag doll to look like her for a long time.

And here she is too sitting in her very own chair - a 75p bargain from a second-hand shop recently. I'd been looking out for something for my dolls to 'pose' on while I took a photograph, so I was very pleased with this.

And get this:-

my own personalised fabric label - something else I've been wanting for ages and I recently found a web site I could order from!!

Now then, if you like Berry - here she is again ............ but this time, with her twin sister. I thought I may as well make two, while doing one.

And Berry's twin is up for sale if anyone is interested! £25.00 + postage and packing. But just in case anybody who purchased a 'Tilda' doll from me in 2009 thinks the price is a bit cheaper than Tilda was, that's because I haven't had to buy anything to make 'Berry' - she is made entirely from my stash, whereas I had to buy practically everything from scratch for the 'Tilda' dolls ..... sorry, just felt I needed to explain that point.

Anyway, if anyone is interested, email to discuss!

Confession time!!

2011-03-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

It's just as well Wendy is such a lovely bloggy friend ..... and forgiving too, as I recently had to confess to her my guilty secret of out and out plagiarism!!!!! I hear lots of sharp intakes of breath, "how could she" I hear you say!! What happened was that I linked to Tanya's blog from a comment left on one of Wendy's posts and discovered the cutest Gingerbread doll dressed in pink that Wendy had made and sent to Tanya, (click on the link to see the original, and best by far, Ginger doll). Then realising I had some of the same pink fabric and the right colour felt, I couldn't resist having a go at making one. So here is my version of Wendy's little Ginger dolls:

Please note, ALL CREDIT FOR DESIGN GOES TO WENDY, not me!! And credit for her forgiving nature too LOL xxxxxx and Wendy is so modest, she didn't even put a picture of the one she made on her own blog ... can't say the same for me though eh!!!

Anyway, now that that confession is out (phew - doesn't it feel better to get these things off your chest??), and talking of Wendy, which I was (I should have called this post 'Wendy' shouldn't I really, instead of 'Confession time') I was going to show what I had made for her ..... firstly a belated Christmas pressie (very belated) is a Prairie Doll:

...... and secondly a birthday present - this cute little Cupid Rag Doll:

So that's the lot for now. I'm working on yet another Rag Doll - it's no use, I just can't resist making them, so I won't try (resist that is)!!

Till next time

A Nostalgic Rush!

2011-02-27T06:16:00.000-08:00

...... that's what I got when I did a quick blog hop last night before turning in.

As an avid follower of Diane's blog, her post yesterday sent me scurrying to find the old Girls Annuals I bought from ebay a couple of years ago. They're copies of Annuals I had when I was aged 10 - 12. It's amazing how a simple book can wipe away the years!

At that age, Saturday mornings meant a bit of a lie-in and waiting for the sound of the paper-boy dropping my favourite comics through the letter-box - I loved the stories and articles, and as I went into my teens, the pin-ups too, which were 'pinned up' liberally over my bedroom walls (you could barely see the wallpaper), David Cassidy, Donny Osmond to name just a couple. Every Christmas I could guarantee that two of my pressies would be my favourite Annuals, which I could never wait to get my hands on.

This 1970 edition of the 'Bunty' Annual though was my best find, as it contains a story that absolutely captivated me at the time (when I was 10) .......... I must have read it dozens and dozens of times:

and even to this day (before I bought it on ebay) I could have told you the substance of the story - it was about a deaf, mute, orphan girl taken in by a convent of Nuns. The girl turned out to be a pretty good artist, and as a consequence uncovered some long-lost gold and thus saved the day!! We all enjoy a happy ending don't we!! And to re-read this story (which I now know was called 'Bianca's Golden Gift', and all the other features nearly 40 years on, was pure nostalgic bliss!

Who remembers the regulars in 'Bunty', such as 'The Four Marys' ............ in glorious black & orange:

.... and 'Bunty's Cut-Out Wardrobe:

I remember well sitting with my scissors and dressing her in her different outfits - from the weekly comics anyway, I didn't cut up my Annuals!! Perhaps not too different to me now with my love of making Rag Dolls eh!

Anyway, thanks Diane for another trip down memory lane - it was great!!

Back to Blogging!

2011-02-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

If you're reading this, thank you for sticking with me ....... and not deleting me from your blog roll!! LOL

It's been more or less 4 months since my last post and although I don't want to go into detail, I will simply explain that my absence was due to the sudden loss (shortly after my last post) of a very close family member, and so it has been a very difficult time. I won't dwell anymore on it here though!

This is a crafty blog after all!

I didn't sew at all for about 2 months, but have been doing bits since just before Christmas. I was eased back in by making a small cross-stitch pin cushion for a young lady for Christmas.

I was also going to show you a cross-stitch needle/scissor case I made for a close friend who was celebrating a big birthday in January, except I forgot to take photographs (what a numpty as Wendy would say)!! I'm waiting for my friend to email some piccies to me, so hopefully I'll be able to show them later on.

Then I made this cushion cover

.......... it's for my nephew's girlfriend who spent several months last year studying in Paris (lucky thing). The fabric on its own may have been enough, but I did embellish it a bit with some buttons and beads and I did a bit of appliqué on it too. She hasn’t seen it yet actually, but I think I’m safe – I doubt that she’ll be reading my blog ……. too busy having a great time at Uni in Manchester if she has any sense – which she has!!

At the time (referred to above) my lovely bloggy friend, Wendy, and I had agreed to a little Christmas pressie exchange, but with what happened, it was impossible for me to see it through – Wendy was very understanding of course. Then just after Christmas (I think) I received a lovely package from Wendy – she had still gone ahead and made things for me, and this is what she sent to me

a woolly crow on a stand; AND

Gingerbread Jam!!

aren't they gorgeous? I just LOVE them both and was so pleased with them, as they are both things I had admired that Wendy had already made previously either for herself or for another friend.

So I can now say publicly – a very big THANK YOU to my lovely, lovely friend Wendy!! Of course, I had already started what I was making for Wendy (I was about 75% through making it), but simply couldn’t finish it at the time. I have, however, since finished her pressie and made something too for her birthday (leap year baby), which I sent to her recently, but I’ll show those next time.

Anyway, I’ll leave it there for now, apart from to say that I have discovered just how much of a comfort my sewing is to me - it has truly been my solace and I should count myself lucky for that!

I’m very happy to be back in the world of blogging – it’s so addictive and so much fun, although I must resist being a slave to it in future, as I end up feeling guilty about the amount of time I spend at this computer blogging and blog hopping!

Autumn Annie Winner!!

2010-10-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

Apologies for keeping you waiting – that's just in case you were waiting with baited breath!! But I’ve been at work all day, so it’s had to wait until this evening.

I don’t know how that ‘Random Number Generator’ thingy works, so I used the old-fashioned ‘name out of a hat’ method – well, name out of a bath anyway – close!!!

Anyway ladies, Autumn Annie’s new home is going to be with ........................................

Roberta in Georgia, USA – congratulations Roberta.

Roberta, I need an email address for you so that I can contact you personally for address details etc - my email address can be found on my Profile.

Thanks to everyone who entered my Giveaway – it’s been fun!

Rag Doll Giveaway!

2010-10-10T08:06:00.001-07:00

On the grounds that many bloggers host a Giveaway to celebrate their 100th blog post, I’m a tad late with this, as this one will make my 111th post (all the one’s!!!).

Anyway, this is ‘Autumn Annie’, wearing a red check dress topped with a star spangled apron and holding her little twiggy heart garland. I love making rag dolls, so I suppose my Giveaway had to be in keeping with that. If you would like to be in with a chance of winning my ‘Autumn Annie, these are the rules (much the same as many others):-

• You will receive one entry by leaving a comment on this post;

• Become a follower, or if you are already one, you’ll have another entry - let me know that you have become a follower please;

• and if you post on your blog about my giveaway you will receive a third entry.

There, that’s all there is to it!! Oh, except to tell you that the Giveaway will close at midnight (GMT) on Monday 18th October 2010. And one other thing, it is open to anyone – worldwide!!

(New) Bag Lady!!

2010-09-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

OK, so there was something else I was working on while I was away from work recently, but I hadn’t finished it, and I didn’t know whether it would turn out as I wanted it to. Now I know this is going to sound very big-headed, BUT, I have to admit to being quite proud of my new bag. It’s actually a rucksack and is made from my favourite fabric of the moment – Blackbird Design’s ‘Harvest Home’. I plan to use it for work (so long as it’ll take the strain) instead of having to carry 2 or 3 bags, plus an umbrella when it’s wet!!! Mind you, I’ll probably end up knocking people flying with it knowing me every time I turn round!!!

Here’s the front with an appliquéd front flap

........... a little zip pocket under the flap .... and get this cute little zipper with the scissors charm. I only discovered it very recently (maybe I’m behind the times), but I just had to have one for my bag! It came from Belen of Simply Patchwork. If you want to look at them (there are a few other different charms), pick up the link from her name and from there, take the link to her store.

This is the side – there's a large deep pocket each side for carrying a book, umbrella etc.

The back!

And this is a view of an alternative way I can carry it instead of on my back, as I can take the strap from the back and attach it to the clips on the sides ....... had to stand on a chair in front of the bathroom mirror to take this one!!! which is why it’s a bit dark – so apologies for that. My neighbours would probably have thought I’d lost the plot (be careful of what you say now!!!!) if I’d popped round to ask if they would take a photo of me holding my new bag ...... they’d have likely patted me on my head and sent me on my way!!!!!

Anyway, I hope you agree that it has turned out well – there’s nothing like blowing your own trumpet is there?!!!

Born to Quilt Gus Pincushion

2010-09-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

This is Gus the snowman pincushion – isn’t he cute?!! He was designed by Veronique of Born to Quilt and I bought the kit from Veronique at the NEC Festival of Quilts last month. The next picture shows a picture of the pattern front and I think you have to admit that my version is pretty close to the original, though his hat is a different colour.

Making Gus last night was a reward to myself for having finally finished this beach hut themed cushion for my lovely cousin, Pauline.

I love Pauline dearly, but I did not enjoy making the cushion. Originally, I was trying to make up my own design, but after 2 failed attempts, Pauline made a suggestion and showed me a picture of a cushion she had seen in a magazine and liked, so in the end I worked with that ..... even then, I struggled to find the right fabrics –ooooh, I really didn’t enjoy making it – have you guessed??!!! Now if I tell you that this is a present for lovely cousin’s 60th birthday, and then tell you that she will be 62 in November, you may just begin to see how bad the struggle was. Still it’s done now – I just need to get it into the post – or maybe I might deliver it personally – that would be a nice weekend wouldn’t it and it’s only about 1¾ hours from where I live – I think I might just do that!!

Till next time!

Devon Jollies and a finish!

2010-09-11T00:48:00.000-07:00

I can now show you something I finished a couple of weeks ago (and gave a sneak peak of a little while ago) now that I know Deb has received her gift. It’s a bit of a cheek to call it her birthday present really, as this was for her 50th birthday in July, so it was a tad late – however, I think she has forgiven me and I think it brightened her day a little, as it arrived in the middle of the terrible earthquake they've had in New Zealand a week ago ... and are still suffering the aftershocks of!!! Anyway, I did a bit of cross-stitch and made a needle case and matching pinkeep ........

I have to admit being pleased with them, as I love the colours!

I’ve just come back from a short 'jolly' in South Devon, having had the opportunity to stay in the holiday home of an acquaintance. Although heavy rain was forecast, the sun shone practically the whole time and it was warm. These are the views from the back of the cottage:

......... need I say more!! The view was beautiful and very peaceful and I did have the opportunity to sit & sew for a while, but didn’t complete anything, as it was only a short stay and one or two trips were a must, including one to the beach in order to have fish & chips by the seaside – and if Wendy is reading this, that was the only slip from my diet – HONEST – it was a premeditated slip though!!!

Cross-stitch Challenge

2010-09-05T05:54:00.000-07:00

Niky of Niky’s Creations has an interesting challenge on her blog, although it is now closed to new enquiries! Niky offered to send you a copy of her new pattern - this one here

The challenge was then to make the stitched project into something of your own choice – anything you like. This is how I made mine up ..........

Photographs of what you have made (incorporating the design) then had to be submitted to Niky by 6th September (tomorrow) and then on the 10th September, Niky will choose her favourite and the winner will receive something nice …….!!!

Festival of Quilts ... and a lovely day out!

2010-08-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

Get your comfy slippers on girls, cuz this is a bit of a loooonnnggg one!!!!!!!!

I went to the Festival of Quilts at the NEC in Birmingham yesterday and came home thoroughly exhausted!! But what a great day. I met my hero (well, heroine I should say), Veronique from ‘Born to Quilt’ in France. Veronique is such a lovely warm, friendly person – I almost felt like a teeny bopper again meeting my favourite pop star .... how old!!! LOL. Anyway the first picture is of moi (impressed by my french eh!!) and Veronique – she looks great – but please forgive how awful I look. I said to Wendy last night in an email, that I re-joined Slimming World a couple of weeks ago, but crickey, there’s nothing like seeing a photograph of yourself to see how others see you:0( ........ Still, if I will insist on standing next to a very slim, attractive, french blonde lady, then I only have myself to blame don't I? Ha!!I must be getting older though, because years ago, there’s no way I would have displayed myself in this public way – love me or leave me though!!!!

By the way, Veronique's mystery quilt, which was hanging at the back of her stall, is much, much lovelier close up than seeing it in a book - fantastique ....... see french again!!!!!

I made several purchases from the ‘Born to Quilt’ stall, as it was simply the best one there! And these are they .......

... Veronique’s ‘Mystery Quilt’ book, which she signed, some beautiful wool fabric, and a really cute little snowman kit. I wish now that I had bought some of her lovely fat quarters, but I'd run out of money by then - I love her palette of blues, browns and red/pinks - lots of florals and checks - but maybe next time!!

.... and here’s the inside of the book signed!!!

Now whilst I’m name dropping – which I am!! I also met Lynette Anderson. I bought one of her patterns having bravely confessed to her that I have never actually got around to stitching any of her patterns, but she was still nice to me nonetheless and agreed to have a piccie taken with me – please ignore me again – sorry!!!

I bought lots of other lovely goodies too – naughty I hear you say, but nice .... and much better than a cream cake!!! LOL.

..... the latest issue of ‘Inspirations’ magazine, some Valdani threads, one of Lynette's patterns, a ball of wool (I’m thinking maybe rag doll hair here!), a gorgeous pineapple quilt pattern, a few fat quarters and one or three other things!!

Now if you look at Wendy’s blog (Wendy went on Thursday), she spoke to a lady on the journey home who had also been to the festival and hadn’t bought a thing ....... WELL, I had the same experience while waiting for the free shuttle bus to carry my weary legs back to the train station!! I chatted to a couple of ladies sitting on a bench, and they hadn’t bought anything!!! I had to compose myself before they saw the total look of, jaw dropping, surprise on my face (“what you’ve been there all day and not bought a sausage – is there something wrong with you????!!!!!”) I didn’t actually say this, but it’s what I was thinking – I think they must have been aliens from another planet!!!

Now, on to the exhibition itself, not too many though, as it’s never the same as actually being there is it? I have to show you this ‘Dear Jane’ replica though:-

.. it was perfect in every way - all stitched and quilted by hand over a 3-year period. I only know this because I happened to bump into the lady herself at Lynette Anderson’s stall – very precious indeed.

.... and I just loved the colours in this ‘Pineapple Plus’ Quilt – so much so, I bought the pattern – see above!!

... and this was the winner of the exhibition – flipping amazing it was!! If you look closely at the detailed pictures, you can see the fabulous 3-D effect of the flowers .... beautiful and a worthy winner.

Well ladies, if you’ve managed to get this far, thank you!

Tell me I'm daft, but I went to bed last night dreaming of exactly what it would be like to live in a little French village just down the road from ‘Born to Quilt’ !!!!!!!!!!!!!! .............. a poor existance probably, as I'd never have any money te he!!

Gosh, I think must be my longest post EVER!! LOL

Sneaky peak!!

2010-08-09T13:46:00.001-07:00

Just a quick peek at what I’m working on at the moment, as I’ve managed to get started on a new small cross-stitch project. There’s not much to see yet, and I can’t show you a picture of the pattern, as there isn’t one – I’m sort of making it up as I go along using some of my favourite colours ..... wish me luck!!

Handmade by me .....

2010-08-01T03:23:00.000-07:00

........ OK, and with a little bit of help from mother nature!!!

This is my first ever vegetable harvest. The carrots are meant to be short and stubby, just in case you thought they look a bit dumpy, but I think the onions are NOT meant to be this small - picked 'em too soon I suppose, but no matter, they'll still taste nice hopefully!

Gonna have the carrots later maybe with a bit of chicken - nice!

... followed by my single solitary strawberry - I'll have to make it up with a ton of ice cream!!!! The strawberries didn't fare so well this year - I wonder why .....

No matter!

A Giveaway!!

2010-07-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

Sue from ‘Quilt Times’ is having a super giveaway in order to get us all started early on our Christmas stitching. The prize is this lovely book called ‘Christmas Quilts from Hopscotch’

So ‘hop’ (get it!!!) on over to ‘Quilt Times’ to be in with a chance of winning it!!

Bunting!

2010-07-17T04:53:00.000-07:00

Well, I have achieved a little bit of sewing this week while I’ve been off work on leave, but not the sort I prefer to do! I had a small commission from a lady at work! The lady in question has a friend who is holding a garden party later in the month and wanted some fabric bunting to hang up around the garden. I’ve made 24 metres, which equates to 100 flags, double-sided though, so that's 200 triangles altogether. Quite easy of course, and it didn’t take too long to run up. So, this is what 24 metres of bunting looks like ........

and the next picture shows a small section of it hanging up around my kitchen ........

I’ve been a bit restricted actually during my week off due in part to the fact that my sewing machine packed up on me right at the beginning of the week - tragedy!!!!! So it had to go for a few days to the sewing machine doctor!! And secondly, because I’ve had this young lady to stay for the weekend ......

.... my aunt and uncle’s Bichon Frise, whose name is Rosie, and Rosie enjoys sitting very close to you a lot of the time, making it a little difficult to sew – still, she’s such a little sweetie and has a lovely nature.

Must dash now as my brother and SIL are coming to tea tonight, so I’d better start moving myself and get something prepared for later!!

Pressies

2010-07-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

I had a present waiting for me when I got home from work yesterday (Wednesday) – from Deb all the way from the other side of the world in New Zealand. I love, love, love the colours of the fabric and shall be using this on my worktable, perhaps as a mat for my sewing machine – that way I’ll get a lot of use out of it.

Thanks Deb – I really love it.

Deb also sent me some lovely smellies – Citrus and Lavender Body Scrub and Lavender bath soap – they smell reallllllllllllly nice!!

..... does ‘Body Scrub’ scrub away calories I wonder – get rid of the chocolate I ate today perhaps??!!!!! I shall have a soak in the bath tomorrow night I think and scrub away the stress of the working week – I’ve had 3 very late nights at work this week, so am shattered.

Roll on the weekend!!!!!!

Expecting ........

2010-06-16T12:06:00.000-07:00

No, not me - that would be a miracle!!!! But I do know several expectant mums at the moment, so couldn’t resist making this lovely cushion for the nursery! It has a double-sided pattern. One side to slumber to with Mr Moon:

And the other side to wake up to with Mr Sunshine:

It comes from this lovely new book called ‘Quilt a Gift’ by Barri Sue Gaudet, which I bought recently when I went to buy fabric .... NOT another book – resistance was futile though, so I didn’t bother trying!!! The cushion went together quite easily using scraps of fabric from my stash and felt for the appliqué.

I’m not saying which expectant mum the cushion is for though yet just in case she happens to be sneaking a peek!!!

Apple Charlotte!

2010-05-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

My latest ‘Annie’ is named after the traditional old English pudding; ‘Apple Charlotte’. The initial inspiration though came after I purchased the lovely rosy pink fabric of her apron (a Nancy Halvorsen fabric called Cider Mill Road), which has apples on it. My Nana’s name was Charlotte, so, add the two together – and you get ‘Apple Charlotte’!! And the apple fabric goes really well with the green check fabric – something I’ve had for a while and knew I would find a use for eventually! The red hair, admittedly, it a little brighter than I would have liked, but it’s sometimes difficult finding wool in the right shade.

Her very own apple is made from some raw silk that I’ve had for ages and just happens to match the apron fabric perfectly and has a beautiful shine to it. The leaves are made from wool felt and it’s finished with a piece of cinnamon stick. And, oh yes, I added some cinnamon oil to the stuffing inside the apple, so it smells just like apple pie –yum!!

Apple Charlotte measures approximately 20 inches from top to toe!

Quite cute I think!!

What I love about special BIG birthdays ......

2010-05-26T11:48:00.000-07:00

........ is that they last for weeks – not just one day!!

It’s nearly 3 weeks since I attained the grand old age of 50 and yet this week I’ve received 4 birthday cards and today my third present – what fun!! This is the package of pressies I received today from my lovely friend Wendy:

A very pretty bag in reds and greens (Wendy’s first bag by all accounts, but I don’t know whether I believe her – LOL). It has a lovely bobble fringe around it .... and I love the way the handle comes together – tied together at the top! Next, is a lovely pin cushion – I love the fabric! A selection of co-ordinating fabrics, some Perle cottons and a sweet wooden sign – I think Wendy is saying that I’m simple or something like that, which isn’t far from the truth!! Thank you Wendy very much for your generosity - I love them all!!

Late Spring!!

2010-05-17T23:42:00.001-07:00

I forgot to show these last week!!

Although I don't appear to have been doing much sewing lately, I had made a couple of things for Wendy, for her birthday, but couldn't show them as I only sent them last week!! It was Wendy's birthday way back on 29th February, so it was WELL late - but not my fault entirely, as I had been waiting for some decorated pins that I had ordered from America to add to the pin cushion, but after 7 weeks of waiting, I cancelled them and instead had a go at making them myself. And they turned out not too bad, although perhaps a bit bigger than the real thing. So, although slightly out of season by now, this is what I sent to Wendy. The pincushion (with deorated pins) and the chocolate bunnies were made by 'moi' and the rest were bought!!

2010-05-09T12:15:00.000-07:00

I’ve just realised how long it’s been since I posted about anything I’ve made, so it’s good to be doing so now! Not that I haven’t been stitching! I have made a couple of things for my friend Wendy (finished them ages ago actually), but I’ve been waiting for a tiny little decoration that I had ordered from America ......... I have been waiting, and waiting, and waiting – but no joy yet, so I’ve now asked the shop to cancel the order and I shall be posting Wendy’s (very belated) birthday present off this week. After that, I will be able to show those too!!

Anyway, this is what I’ve just finished – a little ted. He’s based on my Strawberry Bear pattern, only with BIG feet, which I love and a big cute nose too. I haven’t given him a name yet – anyone got any ideas? He’s about 5 inches sitting and about 9 inches at full stretch.

See you next time!

A lovely day!

2010-05-07T12:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I had a lovely, lovely day yesterday celebrating my birthday ........ OK, my 50th birthday!!! As I told you in yesterday’s post, I went off to my favourite fabric shop and had probably only been in the shop about 5 minutes before I had been conned, sorry, persuaded into buying a jelly roll; to which I added a few fat quarters. I didn’t stay too long though, in case I lost all control. It wasn’t random buying though (well OK, two of the fat quarters were!!). I was after fabric that would match a quilt top that I’m half way through. Rather dimly, when I bought the quilt pattern and fabric, I didn’t check the finished size – I assumed it would be full double-bed size, whereas it is really only a bed-topper size, so I’m going to extend it with extra borders and applique (eventually!) ........ so that is my one and only excuse for buying fabric – do I need one though!!?? Not when it’s your 50th birthday you don’t!!!

Yesterday evening I spent with my family and one of my friends at my brother’s house, where we had a lovely big Chinese takeaway – yum! Followed by the piece de resistance (have I spelt that right!!) ............. a drum roll please for my beautiful birthday cake made by my wonderfully talented and very kind auntie – take a look at this ..............

... and this is a only a small sample of my aunt’s talent. Sugar craft has been her hobby for a long time and she has made many, many wedding and birthday cakes over the years, and each one is to an extremely high standard – a missed business opportunity I think.

Now this is very brave of me I think, because the next one is of ME with the cake, plus my talented aunt, my brother and my friend.

.... now I know they say that photographs add about 10 lb to your weight, but what the heck accounts for the other 40 lb of mine – perhaps it’s to do with my age eh?? Not convinced – no, me neither. Just way too much cake and chocolate .... but you have to agree that it would be churlish of me not to eat my birthday cake – I will share a bit of it though, don’t worry.

I received mostly money and garden vouchers for presents. My big present I’ve already had in April of course – that was my trip to Ireland with my brother and sister-in-law. I also had some lovely willow vegetable planters as I’m attempting to grow a few vegetables this year and I think these wicker planters look so much nicer than plastic tubs, and I can use them again next year, so ‘Green’ too.

And I took this one just before I went to bed last night of some of my birthday cards.

Back to normal now I suppose – excitement over. I’d go and switch the TV on, but there’s nothing but the news about our ‘hung parliament' – when will that ever get sorted!!!!

Till next time!

My second 25th!!!!

2010-05-06T01:38:00.000-07:00

................... birthday that is. Well, 50 is such a high number when we’re talking birthdays, which we are, so I prefer to call it my second 25th!! Anyway, one of my birthday cards confirmed that 50 IS the new 40 – and I believe them!!! And as with any 50-year old (or should that read 5-year old) I woke up several times in the night eager to open the cards I had already received. But then again it could just be my 50-year old bladder getting me up several times a night!!! LOL

Well, it’s been a good day so far. NOT going to work was a great start, followed by a lovely mug of coffee in bed whilst I opened my cards, and then the next good bit was browsing through the current issue of ‘Inspirations’ magazine, which came out just in time for my birthday – Thank you!!

I discovered ‘Inspirations’ magazine (by accident) about a year ago or so and each issue really does ‘Inspire’. It only comes out four times a year, but each issue is packed with beautiful projects – mostly long-term projects that will turn into real heirlooms.

Katarina sent me these lovely pressies from Sweden:

A lovely bookmark, a little needlecase, a gorgeous delicate necklace (sorry the photo doesn't show the lovely purple colour) and a really pretty, very soft knitted/crotchet brooch .... and a lovely card – all made (I believe) by Katarina, a very multi-talented YOUNG lady! Thanks again Katarina, I really appreciate them.

At work yesterday, one of the girls had arranged one of these in the office for me:

....... a chocolate fountain with strawberries and marshmallows for dipping – how gorgeous, and a lovely surprise too – I am a chocoholic you know!!! And just to prove it, I also received this ‘Chocoholic’ mug from the same lady

plus flowers, smellies and chocolates from other friends at work. I had money from the whole office to put towards an Ipod – a bit trendy eh for a 50-year old!!

I shall be getting together with my family later tonight for a big Chinese takeaway, followed by birthday cake.

Well ladies, you must excuse me ...... I can resist no longer – I’m off to my favourite fabric shop. Resistance is futile I’m afraid, so why bother trying ....... what else is a GIRL to do on a Special birthday???!!!!

Just remembered – I’d better go and vote too on the way – it’s General Election day here in the UK. Thank you Gordon Brown for holding an Election on my big day – upstaged again!!

Catch you later ...........

My 50th birthday celebrations begin!!

2010-04-17T12:00:00.001-07:00

It’s been quite a while again I know!! I’ve been doing as much overtime at work as I can (needs must!!), so by the time I’ve caught up with household chores, shopping etc. I’m often too tired to do much sewing. Having said that, I have done a bit, but I can’t showcase my work yet, as what I have done is a pressie for somebody who may well read this, so that will have to wait!!

My 50th birthday celebrations have begun early with a 4-day trip to the Republic of Ireland (the south-east area around Cork, and Wexford) and have to say that all these stories one hears about lots of rain in Ireland I have decided are a myth, as we have just had 4 glorious days there – lucky or what!! We were also very lucky that we got back on Thursday morning – just before all of the travel problems that have arisen due to the volcanic eruption in Iceland!! I went with my lovely brother and sister-in-law (Colin & Ruth) – it was their present to me for my birthday – how generous was that? And I had a really lovely time. It was very relaxing (my brother did most of the driving – I did none!!) and Ireland, as foretold, is a very beautiful place ..... and the traditional Irish breakfasts, with black pudding and white pudding, were delicious!! The only downside really was the cost of everything! I already knew from others that it is generally considered more expensive than here, but added to that the terrible exchange rate at the moment – Sterling/Euro – and most things seemed almost double the price!

Anyway, if you’re still reading, here are a few photographs of our holiday

Brother and SIL on the coast at Hook Head – just look at the colour of the sea!!

The coast at Tramore

The harbour at Cork (I think!) – I loved the pastel colours of the houses!

The fantastic view from the farmhouse we stayed in at Ballinhassig, County Cork

.......... and a green post box!!

My favourite part was our trip to Cobh (pronounced ‘Cove’) and an exhibition called the Queenstown Story Exhibition, which is housed in an old Victorian railway station. The exhibition told the story of the Irish/American emigration following the potato famine of the mid 19th century. Part of the exhibition was dedicated to the Titanic, as Cobh was the last calling point before it started its fatal journey in 1912!!

I must just add a funny note (sorry big bro!!). On Sunday (the day we set off for Ireland) we arrived at the dock in Fishguard, South Wales in good time. There was only a ‘Stenaline’ ferry in dock – we were travelling with ‘Irish Ferries’, so my brother started to check the travel documents; whereupon he suddenly dropped the papers, threw the car into reverse and steamed off again cursing “Christ, we’re supposed to be at Pembroke, (also in South Wales for those of you outside the UK) not Fishguard – we’re never going to make it!!” All was well though, as Fishguard and Pembroke are only about 25 miles apart and we arrived there still in good time. Needless to say, my sister-in-law, Ruth, and I didn’t let my brother forget his little mistake .... and I’m sure we’ll find plenty of occasions in the future to remind him of it – aren’t we cruel, but he did make us laugh?!!

Anyway peeps, hope to back soon to show you what I’ve been stitching.

Dear Jane

2010-02-21T08:22:00.000-08:00

I’m really getting back into cross-stitch lately and enjoying it, although I am missing my quilting at the same time – if ONLY there were more hours in the day!!!!

What could be better though than a combination of the two! I’ve just bought myself this new chart

(saw it on someone else’s blog as usual!) and couldn’t resist (as usual!!). It’s a cross-stitch pattern based on the ‘Dear Jane’ quilt, but a scaled down version of it. I really love it and can’t wait to get started on it ..... along with many other cross-stitch patterns, some quilting – oh, yes, and I’ve also been having a little go at crocheting lately .... just to add to the pile!!! I just can’t help myself!!!

Valentines and friends!!

2010-02-12T02:02:00.000-08:00

Now, as a single person (for the 3rd time now!!), I wasn’t expecting to receive anything in the way of a Valentines treat. However, I was wrong, because when you’re lucky enough to have such wonderful friends as Wendy (The Quiet Room), then you’re not forgotten. When I found a card from the Post Office man the other day saying they had a package for me, I tootled off to collect it assuming it was a couple of DVD’s I had ordered from Amazon. What a surprise to find a big fat envelope from Wendy instead. And here are the contents of that lovely big fat envelope:-

Firstly, lots of lovely Valentines delights – a beautifully stitched ‘February’ pillow, heart-shaped bath treats, choccies (yummie), a very cute little teddy, a reel of ‘East of India’ ribbon (I love ‘East of India’ products), a metal heart ..... and did I mention the choccies ......

here is a close-up of the box of chocolates, but I’m not going to compromise myself by showing you a photograph of the inside of the box – after all, the ‘Sell By’ date is September 2010, so I thought “better to be safe than sorry”, and munched my way through them in about (let me think) 30 seconds – naughty, but oh so nice!!!

and as if that wasn’t enough, Wendy also sent me some belated Christmas gifts. A beautifully stitched ‘Silent Night’ pillow and a lovely ‘Jim Shore’ Father Christmas figurine. Wendy, in her naivety (poor girl) thought I might want to keep the Christmas treats wrapped until next Christmas – ha ha ha – AS IF!!!!

So, all in all, even though I don’t have any romance in my life at the moment, I do feel very cherished and lucky to have such a lovely, lovely friend.

Although I have said it privately to Wendy, I’ll say it here again – THANK YOU SO MUCH.

Random Thoughts!

2010-02-06T09:09:00.000-08:00

Although it’s been a while since I posted, it doesn’t mean that I haven’t been crafting! I suppose I could have blogged about life generally instead, but I haven’t really felt like it I suppose – I have been ‘lurking’ though and have been keeping up with all of my favourite blogs!

Anyway, just to prove (if I need to!) that I have been busy, here’s what I’m working on the moment.

It’s a cross-stitch called ‘Random Thoughts’ and it’s by ‘The Drawn Thread’ Company. I’d been on the look-out for a sampler for a while, and as soon as I saw this one on Andrea's blog, I knew that it was the one for me. Of course, there’s always a lot more work involved than you originally think isn’t there?!!! I started it just after Christmas and I’m nearly a third of the way through it.

It’s so hard on the old eye sight that I rarely feel like working on it after work under electric light, so it’s sort of become a weekend thing. By the way, had I mentioned that I’ll be 50 this year? Oh heck ..... it comes to us all!! Anyway, don’t worry, I'll remind you all nearer the time!! It would have been harder still had I stitched it on the suggested 32 count linen, rather than the 28 count that I chose instead!! I am enjoying watching it come together though and hope that I manage to finish it ..... let’s say, by the summer – there’s my challenge!!!!!!

Keep me to it!!

Don’t you just love my new scissors too? I bought them from Yuko in Japan. I see lovely antique looking scissors on lots of other blogs, but hadn’t seen anywhere I could buy them from until I came across Yuko’s blog – thanks Yuko!

Later!!

Christmas Belle

2010-01-05T05:30:00.000-08:00

I did start ‘Christmas Belle’ rag doll before Christmas, but got a bit delayed in finishing her ..... but here she is finally – better late than never!! I also made her a warm muffler to help keep her hands nice and toastie in all this snow we’re getting here at the moment – anyone want to swap their sunshine for a bit of snow? Well, a lot of snow actually!!!!

Mary Little

2010-01-04T10:50:00.001-08:00

......... now has a new home - mine!!!

My ‘Mary Little’ prize arrived today and I am so pleased with it. As I said to Patti in an email to her, she must have the most amazing eyesight to have stitched something so small – it is tiny, which makes it all the more beautiful. I have tried to take a photograph that shows how small it is. But you really need to do a close-up of the photograph to really appreciate how minute the stitches are!!

..... and this is the back

I am so lucky to have won this fantastic prize – thank you Patti – you’re a gem!!!

Christmas Presents!!

2009-12-29T01:39:00.001-08:00

Just thought I’d do a quick post to show everyone the sewing themed pressies I had for Christmas!! And particularly to say thank you to Deb for the lovely wool felt mat she sent me – this is (I think) Deb’s first venture into working with wool felt and, you know, I think she’s got the hang of it very well – thanks so much Deb, it’s lovely.

I also had two books I wanted. ‘Creative Tucks and Textures for Quilts and Embroidery’, which is a book that a friend of mine has. The book was originally published in 2004, but it has some lovely ideas in it. And secondly, a book that I’ve been itching to have for months – ‘William Morris in Applique’. I’m very keen to have a go at something from this book. Appliqué is a technique that I want to learn a lot more about: add to that the fact that I have admired the work of William Morris since I studied him through my craft/design ‘A’ level when I was at school, and it's the perfect combination as far as I’m concerned!!

I hope you all had a good Christmas and received lots of nice stuff too!!

So I was wrong!!!!

2009-12-20T05:31:00.000-08:00

I'm really glad to say!!!

I've just received an email from Patti to say that I DID win her beautiful 'Mary Little' pinkeep - ain't I the lucky one?!! I think my luck is changing, so I'll carry on doing the lottery 'cause you never know!!

I've also received this lovely embroidered Christmas tree deco from Deb - thanks Deb, it's really lovely and it's going straight on to the tree!

And finally, now that Wendy has received it, I can show a little cross-stitch tree deco I made for her (Gingerbreadman of course!!)!

Bye for now!

I can't resist!!

2009-12-13T05:51:00.000-08:00

..........another giveaway, even though I have as much luck with giveaways as I do with the National Lottery!!

No matter - "gotta be in it to win it" as they say!!

Pop over to Patti's blog to be in with a chance of winning this lovely little pinkeep! Pick me though please Patti - pretty please!!!

Cross-Stitch Needle Case

2009-12-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

I’ve just finished my latest cross-stitch project ..... and it’s my first attempt at a needle case. It’s based on this ‘Bent Creek’ sampler

I liked the style of the alphabet and the vines, but I wanted to do it in nicer colours that would match the fabric I wanted to use, which is ‘Blackbird Design’ fabrics. This is at the construction stage

And this is the finished needle case - front and back!

I wanted it more oblong in shape rather than the square ‘Bent Creek’ design, so I extended the pattern and then added my initials.

Quite a nice finish, even if I say so myself!!

Nina's Giveaway!

2009-11-26T10:16:00.000-08:00

I've just joined another giveaway - I've been meaning to do it for ages, but hadn't got around to it!! "Gotta be in it to win it" as they say!! Anyway, if you pop over to Nina's ‘Between Crosses’ blog here, you too can be in with a chance of winning, not only this beautiful stitched Christmas ornament, but other lovely goodies too. Nina does some really terrific work and it's worth having a good old gander back through some of her posts if you're not already a visiter to her blog.

Ginny & Ginger

2009-11-19T13:41:00.000-08:00

Here’s my latest offering, which I can show as it has now been received by Wendy. 'Pumpkin Wendy' as we’ll affectionately call her!!!!! (See previous post). And of course, it's rag dolls!!

The idea for these cute Gingerbreads came ages ago after seeing something similar elsewhere on the internet, and I knew that one day I would have to make them!

This is Ginny!

And this Ginger!

Wendy adores Gingerbread men, and she has been feeling a bit low lately, so I thought a pair of Gingers would cheer her up and they appear to have done the trick!!

The candy canes were another ‘must do’ and they seem to go quite well with gingerbread men ...... although the ‘mica’ glitter sprinkled on them seems to be everywhere I look now; the floor, my worktable, me – I’ll probably still be seeing it at Easter!!!

Long tiring day at work anyhow, so be seeing ya later!!

Bye for now!

Pumpkins Galore!!!

2009-11-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

How often do we read on each others blogs about the generosity of fellow stitchers/quilters eh?? Well Wendy is no exception!!

When I set out my Autumn/Halloween display the other week (see earlier post), my lovely friend Wendy said that I should have some fabric pumpkins to go on my display. I had been planning on trying to make some myself, but time had not allowed of course! However, as Wendy is a bit of a whizz at making them, she offered to send me some of her pumpkins. Now, I thought that meant one, or maybe two. HELLO, look what the postie bought this morning just as I was dragging myself out of bed ...........

seven, YES 7 gorgeous pumpkins all made by Wendy’s fair hand!!

Aren’t they just something? I love everything about them; the cinnamon sticks, the moss with the leaves and the variety of colours in the fabrics. There is one baby pumpkin, five little ones and one BIG one – they are fabulous. And in honour of their arrival, I am going to leave my Autumn/Halloween display out now until Christmas before putting them away. I’ve told Wendy that I think she should go into business as a pumpkin maker – don’t you agree!!?

THANK YOU WENDY – you are a lovely friend.

Giveaway!

2009-11-07T03:59:00.000-08:00

I just found another cross-stitch giveaway over at Patti's blog here - don't enter though, cause I want to win!!! LOL

Oh, go on then!!!!

Malvern Autumn Quilt Festival

2009-11-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

I planned to blog yesterday, but I was having technical problems (sounds as though I know what I’m doing!!! LOL). Either AOL or Blogger was playing up – dunno which, but it seems to be behaving again now!!.

I was like an excited child on Saturday morning as I headed off with my friend Pam to the Malvern Autumn Quilt Festival; filled with anticipation of what goodies and inspiration awaited us! And it didn’t fail us. Wendy had pre-warned me to be ready to be shoved around, which I was a bit, but I did as Wendy advised ... and shoved back!! So, we had a lovely day and came home rather tired, but I was pleased with my purchases. I’m not going to bore you with heaps of photos – just a few of my favourites of the exhibition quilts. Note the first one – it’s a copy of the ‘Dear Jane’ quilt in reds’ blues & whites – isn’t it exquisite?!!

And finally one of my stash!! Fabric (5 metres in total), buttons, a hanger and Kim Diehl’s latest book, which I’ve been hankering after for a while!!

Another Cross-stitch Giveaway

2009-10-31T13:44:00.000-07:00

I've found another fabulous cross-stitch Giveaway over at Nina's blog - go check it out!!
I thought prehaps if I enter enough of them, I might just win one - I'm willing myself to win!!!

Giveaway!

2009-10-30T17:33:00.001-07:00

There's a great Cross-stitch Giveaway over at Candi's blog - go and check it out .... maybe you shouldn't though, cause then you might win LOL!!!! Oh go on then, I can't be that selfish .... or can I????

Willa Witch

2009-10-26T13:40:00.000-07:00

...... isn’t she cute?!! Witches you see don’t have to be scary – don’t you just want to cuddle little Willa? It’s been ages since I’ve made a rag doll and I’ve been bursting to make my sweet Halloween Witch – so here she is – what do you think?

And here is Willa sitting amongst my Autumn/Halloween display. This is the first time I’ve ever had a display like this, borne purely from inspiration from other ladies out there in cyberspace/blogland. And why not eh? Everyone decorates for Christmas without a second thought, so why not celebrate all seasons ........ bring it on!!!

Take care!

Autumn ... again!!

2009-10-22T01:23:00.000-07:00

I love Autumn .... OK, so that’s not a secret!! But I’ve been itching to make a wall hanging/banner in celebration of this beautiful season. So, I found some clipart of a tree, designed the wall hanging around that and then took a trip to my LFS, where I bought just fat quarters of some lovely ‘Autumn’ colours ..... and this is what I’ve come up with. I’m reasonably pleased with it; although I’m sure I could come up with something much better one day when I’ve learned more sewing/stitching techniques to make use of all these lovely colours. To the left of the wall hanging, by the spider plant, is a beautiful stained glass leaf hanging ornament (Autumn colours, of course!), which I recently purchased through ‘Folksy’ from Amy McCarthy. She has a website where you can see her work, (I particularly like her ‘nautical’ pieces). This was bought to add to the ‘Autumn’ display I’m planning.

In this picture (if you look closely), I’ve highlighted the tree that can be seen in my neighbour’s garden, which shows just one of the glorious shades which I drool over at this time of year. I’ve watched this tree, day by day; go through every shade of Autumn ....... the jewels of nature you could say!!

Be back soon!!

A Great Giveaway!

2009-10-19T10:13:00.001-07:00

Brenda at Pumpkin Patch Primitives is having another fabulous Giveaway at the moment. The VERY generous prize is a Fat Quarter Bundle of Red Rooster's Pumpkins & Spice Fabrics by Whimsicals – how cool is that??!!!

So, rush on over to her blog, and if you tell Brenda that I sent you AND you post about it on your own blog, then I will receive an extra entry, so go on, help me to win – go on, you know you want to!!!!

Autumn & a Cross-stitch

2009-10-11T06:13:00.000-07:00

It’s been a while I know ..... another case of work just getting in the damn way of crafting! Anyway, I’ve finally finished another little cross-stitch. An Autumn themed sampler from a chart by ‘Bent Creek’. I ordered a frame for it yesterday, which should be ready by next weekend and then it’ll be complete.

Everywhere is changing colour into lovely shades of green, gold and red – so beautiful. Is there any better time of year – I don’t think you can beat it? I would certainly advise against driving too close to me at this time of the year, as I become so absorbed with the beauty of the changing landscape, I am quite likely to go slap bang into the car in front – so be warned!!

Anyway, I can’t stay on too long, as I’ve just been on the telephone to my cousin Bev in Australia (near the Gold Coast) for 1½ hours, so I’m a tad behind with everything, but, hey, what the heck, the house isn’t that dusty (I kid myself)!! However, I must do the ironing, otherwise I’ll not have anything to wear for work tomorrow – oops, sorry for using the four-letter work on a Sunday!!

Be seeing ya!

Giveaway!

2009-09-27T07:09:00.000-07:00

Paulette is having a great ‘Giveaway’ over at her blog ‘Sweet P Quilting and Creations’. The giveaway is for a new Canadian magazine, together with fabric to make a lovely ‘Partridge in a Pear Tree wall hanging’ that appears in the magazine. Go check it out!

Harvest Home

2009-09-19T16:11:00.000-07:00

I’m doing this late at night and am rather tired, so please excuse any smelling mispakes!!

I can’t believe that having just had two weeks off work that I’ve achieved so little sewing. I thought I’d do loads! However, I’ve only managed a couple of little things, this being one of them.

And this is a re-work of an earlier project. I was experimenting with the pinwheel pattern using the ‘Harvest Home’ range of fabrics, which I absolutely lurrrrrve, but wasn’t happy with the result, so I took it apart and tried again ..... it’s marginally better I think. It’s only a small piece and fits nicely over the back of the settee and also blends very nicely with the colour of the settee, which was lucky. Not terribly inspiring though!

....... back to work on Monday (big GROAN):0(

Haworth & The Brontes'

2009-09-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I’ve had a very agreeable few days away with my lovely cousin, Pauline. We went to Haworth in Yorkshire – home of the Brontë sisters. I’ve been before, but Pauline hadn’t. However, it never fails to amaze me just how quaint and charming the village of Haworth is with its old, cobbled (and very steep!) main street, and many of the original buildings – wouldn’t like to walk down the road in the winter when it’s icy though!! It’s mainly there for the tourists these days and the buildings are, therefore, very in keeping with the Brontë period. My favourite shop is the Apothecary, which is where Branwell Brontë (Charlotte’s brother) bought his Opium! Now it sells all sorts of gorgeous bath goodies and old vintage style nik naks – really lovely! This is it here:-

And this is the very steep main street (one from near the top and one from the bottom):-

We visited the Brontë Parsonage Museum, which was home to the Brontë family from 1820 to 1861. And just down the lane is the church which the Brontë sisters’ father (Patrick Brontë) presided over.

My cousin thoroughly enjoyed her visit to Haworth ....... and here is a photograph of Pauline looking very interested in ........ umm, I can’t remember what now!!! I don’t think she'll mind her photograph being on my blog – she said she wouldn’t mind so long as she didn’t look daft in the picture - and she couldn't possibly look daft as she's so lovely - that enough creeping darling Pauline??!!!

This is a cobbled passage near the church taking you down to the main street (so full of old-world charm)

And this is the view from our hotel, which had spectacular views like this all the way around:-

I told myself that I wasn’t going to post a picture of me, but, what the heck – here I am – notice I’ve cut the hips and thighs off – I’m not so stupid you know!!!!

I managed to stick to my diet for the first few days away, but slipped towards the end of my stay and unfortunately, that’s rolled into today as well – I just couldn’t resist a cream cake whilst I was out and about – naughty, but nice!!!

I need to get back to my stitching me thinks ...... take my mind off food!!!

More Cross-stitch!

2009-09-10T03:26:00.000-07:00

............ a pincushion this time. Nice and easy to do too – it didn’t take long to complete. The pattern came to me courtesy of Pat – thank you Pat. I have deviated slightly from the pattern, as the pattern title is called ‘My Pins’ and the original has the word ‘My’ at the top whereas I’ve simply repeated the word ‘Pins’ instead. I’ve also used what floss and linen I had to hand ...... trying to use some of my stash you see – aren’t I good??!!! I was quite impressed with myself actually, as the only linen I had was an antique white, which is lovely, but not what this pattern called for, so I tea-dyed it – first time I’ve done it – and it worked. Why do I sound so amazed with myself I ask!! So, I’m really hooked on cross-stitch again now, although I have just started on a small patchwork project – well, truth to tell, I’m re-working an earlier patchwork project that I didn’t feel worked out very well ...... may be able to show you that next time!

But right now (well, in about half an hour) I'm going away for few days! I’m off to see my lovely cousin Pauline in Macclesfield and her equally lovely other-half, Jonathan. Then Pauline and I are off to Haworth (Bronte country) in Yorkshire for a couple of days – can’t wait! I’ve been before, but Pauline hasn’t.

See ya later!

Blackbird Design Finish!

2009-09-07T09:25:00.000-07:00

..... and two whole weeks off work – boy am I happy today!
Well now, I’ve finished my Blackbird Designs ‘Buttons & Pins’ cross-stitch and then I ummm’d & ahhh’d – "shall I make it up into a pincushion as in the pattern picture (see last post) or frame it. As you can see, I decided on the frame. The frame (a 50p bargain from a recent car boot sale!!) is exactly the right size and I think the black compliments the colours of the design ......... anyone disagree strongly? I could still make it up into a pincushion, but my next little project is going to be a pincushion, which is what swayed me with the frame.

Any comments gratefully received!

Blackbird Designs Cross-Stitch

2009-08-31T12:24:00.001-07:00

I’ve changed direction for a while! Although I had told myself that I probably wouldn’t tackle cross-stitch again because it’s so challenging to the old eyesight these days, I wasn’t prepared for just how much I would be attracted to Blackbird Designs – equally their collection of fabric (particularly the ‘Harvest Home’ range!) as well as their cross-stitch creations. So, I’ve backtracked and bought a pattern for just a small piece and here’s how I’m getting on so far. This one is called ‘Buttons & Pins’.

Working on linen makes it a tougher project, but having used linen in the past, I’m afraid I can’t go back to Aida – it simply doesn’t look the same. And it’s not too bad if I can work on it in the daylight – but under electric light in the evenings is more challenging! It’s been a Bank Holiday here today, so I’ve been able to get a few hours in on it – things always take longer than you think though don't they – if I repeat that to myself often enough, I might just get it into my head ....... this morning I said to myself “oh I’ll probably have this finished by this evening. Dream on Julia!!!!

It's finished!

2009-08-23T03:13:00.000-07:00

.................... my Heart & Home Quilt top that is!

I still have to buy the wadding and the backing fabric and of course quilt it (the really hard part!), but as all of that will take a while yet, I thought I would show it to you at this stage. I realised when I looked at the dimensions in the book that it's not actually as big as I assumed it was, so I've added an extra border in the red fabric ........ it's still not as big as I would have liked, but I didn't want to keep adding bigger and bigger borders and end up diminishing the middle (and main) section.

I discovered a shop recently who provide a basting service - something I hadn't come across before, so when I can afford it (as well as the wadding and backing fabric), I shall have them do to that part for me. That will ensure a nice neat basting without any folds on the back!! And then I will quilt it myself - not sure yet though whether that will be by hand or machine.

I have to say, I am very pleased with the results - what do you think?

Last block & Car booty!!

2009-08-09T12:24:00.001-07:00

I’ve finished the last block of my ‘Heart & Home’ quilt – only the borders to do now!!

I haven’t had much sewing time this weekend as I’ve had a friend to stay, so I’ve been cooking, entertaining etc. instead and this morning, we went to a car boot sale – I haven’t been to one for ages and as the weather was perky, we thought we’d venture outdoors instead of staying in.

This is my car boot ‘booty’, below. A mini wicker hamper basket, which I thought I could line and use for threads or something like that. Then the black frame, which will do for a little cross-stitch embroidery; and finally two lovely little coffee cups; something I’ve been after for a while, but didn’t want to pay much for - I got the two of them for £2.00, so not bad!

................ anyway, back to work tomorrow!!!

Heart & Home Quilt

2009-08-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

Well, despite having a shorter weekend (having worked overtime on Saturday) I managed to complete 5 more blocks on my ‘Heart & Home’ quilt over the weekend , which leaves just the one block to do (I’ve left my favourite one until last!!) – the appliquéd flower block! And then borders etc. etc .......... I shall have a little bit of filling in to do too with the neutrals, as no matter how hard I try (and I am using my ¼ inch foot), the blocks still don’t match up exactly and, I’m afraid I made a bit of a hash of the tree block, which means it’s ended up a smaller than it’s meant to be ...... but, hey, if you don’t tell, I won’t!!!!!

Sorry about the top photograph - it was taken at night!!

Giveaway!

2009-08-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

Brenda over at Pumpkin Patch Primitives is hosting a 'Giveaway' to win a kit to make this gorgeous little 'Woolley' quilt - isn't he cute?!! Brenda will be choosing a name on 7th August, so hurry over to her blog and leave a comment ....... and let her know that I sent you too, 'cause that way, I get an extra entry!! Good luck everyone ..... including me!! LOL

Strawberry Bear!

2009-07-22T14:26:00.000-07:00

When I was in one of my favourite fabric shops recently (one of a growing number!!), I noticed a really cute little teddy bear which had been made out of a small gingham check fabric - quite simple, but effective. So, duly inspired, I've been sourcing a pattern for a teddy and eventually found one in one of my books.

I've changed him a little bit by slightly exaggerating the size of the arms and legs................. and why the strawberry? Why not, I don't know, but it does look nice, and I always like my rag dolls to have something to hold ..... adds a little more interest! And if you had smellyvision, you would be able to catch the gorgeous whiff of cinnamon ... I've dabbed a few spots of cinnamon oil here and there on the fabric ...... mmmmmmmm, a lovely hint of country!! And the strawberries look good enough to eat too - the fabric ones as well as the real ones!

catch ya later!

Heart and Home Quilt

2009-07-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I've finally managed to make a start on my third quilt - I've been raring to get going on it for weeks now! The pattern (below) is called 'Heart & Home' – fell in love with it as soon as I saw it last year!!

............ it will test not only my patchwork and quilting skills, but also my ability to do appliqué! I've done the iron-on type before, but with this, I want to do the proper needle-turn appliqué ....... iron-on is fine for a wall-hanging, but as this is a quilt and will be washed (occasionally!), I think it needs to be sewn on. The pattern version has been made with a range of fabric called 'Madeira', but the shop had sold out of that when I bought the pattern, so I bought 'Wildflower Serenade' instead, which is fairly close to the Madeira range in its colours.
........... and here are the first three blocks completed

....... looking good so far!

Back to work!!

2009-07-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

Back to work today for me :0(

Still; no work, no money for fabric, and we can't have that can we? After a whole week off work, I have very little sewing to show.What with days out with family and friends, catching up with those little jobs I've managed to put off, having family over for dinner ....... and so on, it was Sunday before I sat down at my beloved sewing machine! But, eager to catch up a bit, I produced two things. Firstly, I made this with a charm pack I bought a few weeks ago. Wasn't exactly sure what I was going to do with it at first, but then decided a mat for my sewing machine would be a good idea - save me scraping the machine across my lovely pine table!

The fabric is from Moda, called '9' by Sanae - I really love the muted tones.

Secondly, I made this little brown bag from various scraps I had. I wanted something less cumbersome than the bag I use most days, which is big enough to carry the proverbial kitchen sink and often feels as though I am carrying a kitchen sink in it!! I made it with a very long strap so that it can go across my body and thereby leave my hands free for all that rummaging I need to do when I'm in a fabric shop!! It's just big enough for a mobile, purse, car keys etc. Not bad really!

I can't decide now though what I'm going to do next. Will it be one of the two quilts I have the fabric for, or my next rag doll project, or the BOM that I'm behind with, or, or, or ..... I just don't know. Time will tell!!

Anyway, that's it for now - I'm falling asleep at the computer!!

Bye for now peeps!

A week off work ......

2009-07-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

...... and I’m having a lovely time so far, even though it’s rained mostly: it’s simply great to have a break from the daily grind!!

I have finished some sewing, but I’m afraid I’m unable to show it yet as it’s a pressie for ....... oops, nearly let the cat out of the bag then!!! Will show it once it’s in the hands of Madam X.

Today I went to a lavender farm at Snowshill near Broadway in the beautiful Cotswolds. If you shut your eyes, take in the scent of the lavender and ignore the rain, you could almost believe you were in Provence in the South of France – I love to see a mass of lavender together and also love to have it hanging up drying in the house. There’s a nice little gift shop there where you can buy cut lavender (you’re not allowed to cut your own, which is a shame I think) and lots of lavender gifts.

Then we stopped off at the village pub for lunch .... as you do!! It’s not my fault if everything is served with chips is it??!! This is the village:

... it’s a proper ‘chocolate box’ English village, where the houses are all made from Cotswold stone – so attractive, although I don't think my photographs do it proper justice - it's very popular with tourists!

Tomorrow I’m off again for the day with a friend (don't know where yet, but will no doubt include chips somewhere along the way!!), and then I’m determined to get some more sewing in before I’m back at work next week!

Bye for now

Quaint Old Tradition

2009-07-01T12:43:00.000-07:00

..... just thought I'd show you a photograph of where I went to last Saturday afternoon with my good friend Sue. The Bournville Maypole Festival has been running for over 100 years and always takes place on the last Saturday in June (never quite understood that when it's called a MAYpole!!). It's held at the recreation ground within the grounds of the Cadbury's factory (only about 4 miles from my house - yum!! Can you wonder why I'm fat!!). It's always such a lovely day, especially if the weather stays nice, which it did most of the time - all the little girls in their pretty white dresses (except for the one little boy!!) dancing around the maypole. My aunt, who is now 75 years old, danced in the maypole when she was just a little tiddler!

There are also side stalls, craft stalls, a bit of a fun fair, exhibitions from youth military bands etc. and then the evening is rounded off with a firework display.

There wasn't any sewing crafts, but I did buy this:

which opens out into this

....... really lovely isn't it?

Apart from the fact that it's really nice, I bought it because I discovered that it was being sold by Trish, who is the sister of an old school friend and us crafters have to support one another don't we. The prices she charges are ridiculously low, but we all know what it's like trying to sell our crafts to anyone who hasn't a clue how long we labour over them - still, I think she made a reasonable amount on the day.

Anyway, I don't like to complain, but we are melting over here at the moment in the UK - we're never happy are we? We moan about all the rain and cold, but can't cope with the heat when we DO eventually get a bit of sunshine ...... or a lot actually - it's hitting 30 degrees in some parts and that's hot for over here - I know, we're just a bunch of wimps!!

Bye for now!

And then there were five ...........

2009-06-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

.......... rag dolls that is!!

It all started very innocently when I entered Julie’s Secret Easter Swap in February. I had to make a gift for Katarina in Sweden and as she mostly makes very lovely hand-made cards, I was stumped initially as to what I would make for her. Eventually, (much brain-ache later!!) I had the idea of designing and making a rag doll based on one of Katarina’s favourite Rubber Stamp images of a little girl called ‘Tilda’. Tilda has quite a distinctive kind of face as can be seen from the Rubber Stamp pictures below, and although I wouldn’t normally make a doll that looked like this, I was pleased with the likeness to the Rubber Stamp image.

Katarina was, thankfully, over the moon with her doll, but little did I know that I would end up with requests from other ladies asking me whether I would consider making them a rag doll – Tilda, it turns out, is a very popular little lady in the Rubber Stamping world. Consequently, most of my spare time in the last 2½ months or so has been dedicated to these dolls. So now in addition to Katarina in Sweden, they have gone to:-

Vivi in Brazil
Kerry in Massachusetts, USA
Judy in Michigan, USA; and
Cami in Hawaii

talk about going global or what!! I have been very flattered by all the lovely, kind comments paid by the ladies in the Rubber Stamping community – you won’t believe just how much my head has been swelling!!! However, I am glad to get back to ‘me’ things again ..... and I’m sorry to the other three ladies who have since asked me for a doll, but have been refused – they just take up so much of my time I’m afraid. I’ve added the name of the recipient of each doll on the collage photograph above.

Anyway, I’ve been playing around with something called ‘Drawn Thread’ embroidery the last week or so – anybody had a go at this? Maybe I’ll have something to show soon – watch this space!!!

Postscript added 29th June - I've had a comment left by BethenyJ enquiring after a rag doll. Betheny, I can't find a link back to you. I'm afraid I'm not making anymore dolls - if you read above, all will become clear!! Thanks for asking though - I'm flattered.

A finish & Sheep in the Willow BOM

2009-06-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

Ooooh, it's good to make some 'me' things again after the last couple of months or so making the 'Tilda' rag dolls!!! Once the last one is received by Judy (no blog), I shall show photos of them all just to prove that I have been busy.

I don't have much to show at the moment, but what I have is better than nothing. I've finally finished my Nancy Halvorsen 'Star of Wonder' Christmas wall hanging - only 6 months late, but what the heck!! I suppose the proper way to think of it really is that it's 6 months early - that sounds much better doesn't it? Heck, who am I trying to kid?!!!

And secondly, my 'Sheep in the Willow' BOM for the month of May - only one month behind with this, but I'll catch up soon.

I did a bit of work in the garden this morning and now my bones are aching, so it's off to bed for me!

Bye for now

Paper roses, paper roses

2009-06-13T14:18:00.000-07:00

.....cue for a song, or am I showing my age!!!

Long time no blog post!! The rag dolls I’ve been making have taken up so much of my time, but the last one is finished now – phew!! I did have another enquiry, but I said no because of the time they take. So now I shall be able to get back to my next project for me! I do have something to show you however! This really lovely quilled message holder was sent to me by Vivi from Brazil who I made the second Tilda rag doll for. Isn’t she talented? She also sent a quilled magnetic fridge note holder and even the little gift card that came with it has a quilled flower on it. Vivi recently made 500 of these rose message holders for a nurses convention! Vivi does loads of quilling and even has her own website here – why not check it out!

Thanks Vivi – I’m thrilled with it!

Meet Rosie!

2009-05-30T05:15:00.001-07:00

I’d like to introduce you all to Rosie (Rosie Posie as I like to call her!). She’s not mine though, she belongs to my aunt and uncle who have gone away for the weekend and so I’m doggie sitting!! Rosie is a Bichon Frise (a breed of dog I had never heard of until she came along). She is a bit of a 'pampered pooch', but has the sweetest of natures and I love her to bits!! My uncle will soon be 80 years old and their sons and partners/wives have taken my aunt and uncle away for a lovely weekend. They are staying at a posh hotel and having a day at the races today (horse racing) at Newbury, as my uncle really enjoys the horses! The weather is beautiful here this weekend, so it couldn’t be better for them. Looking after Rosie is going to mean virtually no sewing for me as she likes to sit right by my side most of the time – add to that ‘walkies’ and playing with her etc. I also have a friend coming for dinner tonight, so I have some cooking to be thinking about – I’ve made a start on the pudding (I’m making lemon syllabub) yummy!! Isn't it strange: as much as I am a complete chocoholic, my favourite puddings are lemon ones and lemon syllabub has lots and lots of sugar and cream in it – naughty, but nice!!

Anyway, I hope you are all having a great weekend and if in the UK, enjoying this gorgeous sunshine we're having.

Bye for now

Log Cabin

2009-05-27T12:57:00.000-07:00

I’ve had a little shot at the Log Cabin pattern – I’ve not tried it before and it can look really effective when you use the right contrasts. I wouldn't mind doing a whole quilt in this pattern one of the days ................. but then again, it might make me go 'boggle eyed'!! This is only a small sample using some ‘Portabella Market’ fabric that I had (that's the greens, not the red), but it might make a nice mat for my sewing machine to sit on perhaps! I needed to have a break from making rag dolls!!! I have orders for two more dolls, but I’ve decided that I will definitely not be taking orders for anymore after these – I need to get back to making ‘me’ kind of things!!! Know what I mean?

Hairspray!

2009-05-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else out there been to see the musical 'Hairspray' - IT IS FANTABULOUS!!!!! A birthday treat from my friend Elaine was a trip to London to see this great show and it did not disappoint. Michael Ball, of course, was brilliant ( I am a big fan of his), but so were the whole cast - it's a real 'feel good' show and you come out dancing!!! I know it's on/been on in America - is it showing in Australia and other countries too?

If you get a chance to see it, don't miss out, although if you're in the UK and want to see Michael Ball in it, you'll need to get in before the end of July, because then Brian Conley (comedian) takes over from him.

I thought I'd better post about something as it's been a couple of weeks since I did while I've been making rag dolls. In case you're reading this Kerry, I've finished your 'Tilda' doll other than finding some shoes for her, so she should be on her way to you very soon!

Birthday treats!

2009-05-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

It was my birthday yesterday and these are a few of the pressies I had - beautiful roses, a lovely plant holder in the shape of a tricycle (I love things like that!) and an applique book with a some fat quarters. Others pressies were various nice smellies and trips to a couple of shows, so I can't show those of course. One was last week when my brother and SIL took me to see a great british comedian, Rob Brydon - he's really funny!! And next Saturday (16th) a friend is taking me to London to see the musical 'Hairspray' - can't wait for that as I'm a big musicals fan and this one looks particulary good.

I've managed to slip in a quick bit of sewing for myself whilst I wait for the fabric to finish my second Tilda doll order - it's the next part of the 'Sheep in the Willow' BOM - I'm always behind with this - this is the 'April' block. I shall have to make a special effort to get the 'May' block completed during May ..... but don't hold your breath will you? I wouldn't like to see you all expiring!!!

Bye for now!

Birthday pressie!

2009-05-04T23:28:00.000-07:00

I know I haven’t posted for a while, but I am still busy working on the ‘Tilda’ dolls that Vivi and Kerry ordered from me – see ‘Tilda’ doll that I made for the ‘Secret Easter Swap’ here. There’s not too much to do on them now and I hope they will consider them worth the wait!

However, I do have something to post about! Deb (from New Zealand) and I have gradually become bloggy friends over recent months and what a lovely lady she is!

Not much more than a few weeks ago, Deb asked when my birthday is ...... and probably regretted it when she discovered that it was so soon – i.e Wednesday (6th May)!!!!

I know I’m early, but I couldn’t wait any longer!!!

Deb has made me the most beautiful wall-hanging and I love it. The colouring of the stitching and of the fabrics are so very me that it’s clear Deb made it with a lot of thought and consideration for my taste. I particularly like the green fabric on the front, and, well, all of it actually! I love the wire hanger and have asked Deb where she had it from as I’ve never seen one like this before on any websites I’ve looked at, and a hanger really does add a finishing touch to hangings don’t they? And look at the fabric label on the back – it’s so sweet! Deb’s stitching is so neat and I love the picture (and the words).

And as if that wasn’t enough, Deb also made me this lovely little pin cushion; look how small the patchwork is. It’s going straight into use too to replace the one I’ve been using for a few years now, but don’t actually like, but hadn’t had time to replace, so Deb’s will be my new one!

Thank you so much Deb for your thoughtfulness; I really value your friendship. And please appreciate readers that Deb has also been suffering from terrible migraine lately, but has still managed to complete my beautiful gifts and get them posted to me before my birthday – what a star! I’ve never suffered migraine thankfully and hope I never do (a bad headache is bad enough thank you!!!), but from what others say, it is almost unbearable.

I had a small family gathering today to celebrate my birthday rather than on Wednesday when everybody will be back at work (it's May Day Bank Holiday in the UK), and I will be good and wait until the 6th to open the rest of my presents ......... well, I’ll try to wait anyway!!!!! Yes 49 years old, not 9!!!!

Wallhanging

2009-04-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

I’ve been working on two rag dolls this week. The ‘Tilda’ doll that I made for Katarina for the Easter Swap turned out to be quite popular with a few other ladies who make lovely cards with the ‘Tilda’ rubber stamps and, as a consequence, I have received two orders for a doll and have been busy with those.

So, the only thing that I can show this week is a wall hanging that I started over the Easter break. I’ve used some of the absolutely gorgeous Moda ‘Harvest Home’ fabric, which I just love (a lot)!! I decided to have a go at the pinwheel pattern (that is what it’s called, right?!). I haven’t attempted it before and had thought it would be relatively easy, but, for goodness sake, trying to sew all eight corners together is a bit of a pig (sorry, challenge)!!! Then I’m going to have a go at some proper needle turn appliqué – I’ve only ever done it with ‘Heat n’ Bond’, i.e. no hems and I shall do some simple appliqué on the side borders, but not until I’ve finished my ‘Tilda’ doll orders!!

Hope everyone has had a good weekend - back to the grindstone tomorrow!!!

2 more Giveaways!!

2009-04-13T01:48:00.001-07:00

I've come across 2 more Giveaways!

Thearica at Pigtails and Quilts is very generously giving away 30 FQ's in celebration of her daughter's 30th birthday - and you can say which sort of fabrics you would like to receive if you're lucky enough to win - sounds great!

....... and then over at My Little Raggedy Blessings, Renae is hosting a surprise Giveaway. Renae make lovely things using really beautiful vintage images.

Go and check them both out and tell them I sent you!!

Happy Easter:0)

2009-04-11T06:26:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER EVERYBODY!!!

That means eating loads and loads of chocolate until you feel sick - Right?!! Well, OK, that's not the true meaning of Easter (tis to me!!) - "oh, heathen" I hear you say!!!!

Here are a few piccies of my Easter display - I've not done one before, but felt inspired to after seeing other bloggers displays - reminds me that summer will be on its way soon (hopefully anyway). Have a lovely time with your families - I'm going to my brother's. And despite the fact that my nephews are now 22 & 19 years old respectively, they still want an Easter egg from Auntie Julia ...... and of course I can't say no to them!!

Have fun!!!

Weekend Easter project

2009-04-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

Yippee – no more work for the next 7 days:0) I’ve got an extended Easter break – what a relief :0)

I spent last weekend making these Easter/Spring cones for some friends (hope they like them!!) and filled them with a little bag of Cadbury’s mini eggs – yummy (nearly didn’t get given away though, as I love Cadbury’s mini eggs!!!). The cones are from Nancy Halvorsen’s ‘Easy Does It For Spring’ Art to Heart pattern book. I have several of her books, but this is the first thing I've made from them!!

Easter Swap goodies and much excitement!!!

2009-04-02T13:20:00.000-07:00

I had received my Easter swap package on Tuesday when I got home from work, but wasn’t sure whether I was allowed to open it straight away or whether we had to wait until Easter – nevertheless, by the end of the evening, it had, of course, been opened!!!! I simply couldn’t wait.

And this is what was inside, all the way from the very talented Kymberly from Oregon, USA – a really beautiful stitchery made up into a cushion pad using a beautiful lilac, floral fabric. I can’t believe how tiny the stitching is and SO neat – it put’s my embroidery skills to shame! THANK YOU SO MUCH Kymberly, I love my gift and will display it somewhere prominent. Kymberly also included a sweet little chick, which will go on my Easter tree (when I get/make one), some bunny tissues and some Easter chocolates ........ which were delicious !!!!!!!! Oh, flippin heck, was I supposed to save them until Easter Sunday ........ too late now I’m afraid!!!!!

And now, like so many other ladies, I can show what I’ve been working on recently for my Easter swap partner, Katarina from Sweden. When I first received the details of my gift recipient, I found it a bit of a challenge to know what to make as Katarina’s main craft is rubber stamping and she makes the most beautiful cards (she sews too from time to time, but mostly makes cards). I saw that she seemed to like the image of a sweet little girl called Tilda (not the Tone Finnegar one) made by Magnolia, which Katarina has used to make some really nice cards, and that’s where my inspiration came from. I love making rag dolls (as if you didn’t know), so I decided to design and make a rag doll based on the Tilda image. These are a couple of the Tilda rubber stamp images:-

Aren't they sweet? And this is my rag doll version of her:-

I was pleased with her, but still a bit apprehensive as to whether or not Katarina would like her too – not everyone loves rag dolls after all. Well, to say that Katarina was happy with her gift is an understatement – I had the most wonderful email from her to say thank you and how much she loves her ...... and that makes it all worth the while doesn’t it – putting a smile on somebody’s face?

This has been my first swap and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it – many thanks to Julie for organising it for us all – it must have been a bit of a nightmare!!

Sheep in the Willow

2009-03-30T13:41:00.001-07:00

I’ve finished the next two instalments of my Primitive Gatherings ‘Sheep in the Willow’ BOM – this is February and March. I purchased all of the blocks last year and decided to set myself the ‘simple’ (!!!!!!) goal of completing one block each month. January I was going great guns!!!!! - but it didn't take me long to slip!!LOL Anyway, just in the nick of time before March is out, I’ve finished February and March ....... and I’ve taken ‘April’ out of its packet ready to do (positive thinking you see!!). They’re looking quite nice I think and will look better with some yummy homespun bordering them perhaps?

A Giveaway!

2009-03-29T09:11:00.000-07:00

Pat at the Sewing Room is having a 'Giveaway' over here and there's a choice of prizes, so why not go and take a look!!

My Country Home

2009-03-22T15:34:00.001-07:00

At last I’ve got something to show! This is the completed embroidery from the Tracy North, ‘I Luv Country’ pattern I won from Jo in her recent giveaway. The only thing I’ve changed from the pattern was to make it ‘My’ Country Home instead of ‘Our’ Country Home. It didn’t take too long and fortunately I had a lovely pine frame to put it in, which is just ideal – it doesn’t look too bad does it – I hope you agree. It seems ages – well, a while at least – since I posted anything, but that’s because I’ve been occupied with finishing my Easter swap goodies. Thankfully though, I have finished them and they are now winging their way over to ........... somewhere, oops, nearly gave it away then!!!!
What I am I going to tackle next I wonder?

Watercolours

2009-03-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

As I'm not allowed yet to blog about my Easter swap thinggie, I thought to myself, "I know what, I'll impress everyone with a couple of my old watercolours" - tongue in cheek here of course. Neither of them are terribly clear unfortunately (maybe that should read fortunately!), but I didn't take the photographs, so it's the best I can get. The house used to belong to someone I worked for - it was a commission, but I think he was just being kind! And the other is of the High Street in Sherbourne in Dorset, where said person used to live.

I got into watercolours around 1995 and really fell in love with it, but as with so many things, it was so hard to find enough time (same goes for sewing eh) and it is a craft that you need to practice often to avoid becoming rusty as I now have, which in turn has led to me losing my confidence in my abilities. I haven't lost heart though; I shall probably go back to it perhaps when I'm retired, although, writing that down makes that seem too far away - work really does get in the way of my arts & crafts you know ..... oh well. These were some of my earliest paintings and I have painted better ones than these, I just haven't got photographs of any of them - I never thought to take any back then. I'm only an amateur painter, but would love to do much better.

Can't wait to show my Easter swap thinggie - the date is getting close now - I hope the recipient will like it!!

My Giveaway Prize

2009-03-07T11:30:00.000-08:00

My lovely postman brought me a special parcel today. It was my ‘Giveaway’ prize from Jo at Home Sweet Home. As you can see, I’ve had a ‘Primitive Stitches’ pattern book and a pattern called ‘Our Country Home’, both by Tracey North of ‘I Luv Country’ and an absolutely gorgeous Yankee tart candle – really cinnamony (just made that word up!!) and country smelling – yum.

I don’t know what I shall make first from the pattern book! I love the ‘Happy Holidays Swag’ and the ‘Angel of Faith’ cushion cover and the ‘Primitive Wishes’ picture and the ‘Welcome’ star garland and ... and ... and ..........

A lot of thought has clearly gone into my prize as it is right up my street – THANK YOU SO MUCH JO!

And now I’m off to do a bit more work on my Easter swap gift – I’m getting on quite nicely with it now, but am not allowed to show yet. The sooner I finish it, the sooner I can start on my prize!!

Twins!!

2009-03-01T05:18:00.000-08:00

Here I am again with my rag doll fad – a couple of Peter Rabbits! For the many ‘Tilda’ addicts out there, they’re actually made from the ‘Tilda’ Rabbit pattern which many of you ladies have also made. I wasn’t planning for them to turn out like this ..... they just sort of developed that way, as these things do! So I’ve ended up with a ‘Tilda’ Rabbit on a theme of Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit. The coat is made from blue felt, the carrots from scraps of fabric and to make them a bit more ‘Peter Rabbit’ ish, I’ve wired the ears so that they stand up instead of flopping down.

And, finally ...... ahem, do excuse Peter’s bum won’t you; a scrap of wadding for his tail.

And now, I really MUST get on with my Easter Swap project – ideas are starting to flow; I just need to get cracking and bring them to reality!!