tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30993680221994348232024-03-12T16:25:13.756-07:00The Blueberry PatchSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.comBlogger232125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-62674325359544655382013-06-06T08:36:00.002-07:002013-06-06T08:36:30.511-07:00Remember me!Hello all - remember me! I'm the one who fell off the blogging ladder over a year ago.........last year was a little manic, traumatic and difficult all at the same time and I just couldn't continue with blogging along with everything else that was happening.........<br />
<br />
At the same time, I had a website re-design which didn't go as I wanted (behind the scenes that is) hence creating more stress.<br />
<br />
Anyway, to cut to the chase, I hope you are all well and I see you are doing so much better than me on the blogging front! It was sensibly suggested to me that I blog via my website, so..........if you would like to visit me from time to time you can find me here:-<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.theblueberrypatch.co.uk/blog/">http://www.theblueberrypatch.co.uk/blog/</a><br />
<br />
I can't promise vibrant posts but I do pop an update on there every now and then!<br />
<br />
Toodle Pip<br />
<br />
Sarah<br />
xxSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-33914788054533360172012-03-08T01:30:00.000-08:002012-03-08T01:30:59.474-08:00The story of Mabel the trolleyMeet Mabel, my new, well old companion.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tN6vMEP-rEY/T1h5c3IkKhI/AAAAAAAACPA/uH4XXA552Iw/s1600/mabel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tN6vMEP-rEY/T1h5c3IkKhI/AAAAAAAACPA/uH4XXA552Iw/s400/mabel1.jpg" width="400" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
She's in need of a makeover (only a slight one), but as she was only bought for £4.00, what do you expect.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pfy5hVqGNGA/T1h50QR42qI/AAAAAAAACPI/NODQZpxqw8I/s1600/mabel1a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pfy5hVqGNGA/T1h50QR42qI/AAAAAAAACPI/NODQZpxqw8I/s400/mabel1a.jpg" width="400" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
She was found in the back of a traditional charity shop - a rare sighting now. A charity shop where there's no formality, no 'new' items on display, no inflated prices, and certainly no order to anything. A shop where you see old school type floor tiles on the floor, the pricing is little scraps of hand written paper stuck on with sellotape to the shelves.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic08dgRqrtk/T1h6Umx0ecI/AAAAAAAACPQ/XvyU-mfyySE/s1600/mabel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic08dgRqrtk/T1h6Umx0ecI/AAAAAAAACPQ/XvyU-mfyySE/s400/mabel2.jpg" width="400" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
The shop on first glance could be a nightmare to most people, but one that I love as you never know what you will unearth.<br />
<br />
A shop where you can buy Woods Ware for 10p an item, pretty floral bowls for 10p, sheets for 50p - shall I go on!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTszNEZHaAU/T1h68DFCK-I/AAAAAAAACPY/GH60QtGFEkM/s1600/mabel3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTszNEZHaAU/T1h68DFCK-I/AAAAAAAACPY/GH60QtGFEkM/s400/mabel3.jpg" width="400" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
When I saw Mabel as she's now affectionately called, I did deliberate for a time wondering where on earth I would put her, what I would use her for, what colour would I paint her etc etc. I decided against her - walked to the car where hubby and the boys' were sat playing with various phones, electronic devices etc. Having already named Mabel in the shop, I explained my dilemma to them - their first question was 'who is Mabel?' followed by 'what do you want a trolley for?' Hubby already realises that there are some questions you just don't ask, and sometimes it's just easiest to say - 'get it, and think about it later'.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1xWjL-BDI6E/T1h7iRz1oEI/AAAAAAAACPg/kN0MD7-bVnQ/s1600/mabel4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1xWjL-BDI6E/T1h7iRz1oEI/AAAAAAAACPg/kN0MD7-bVnQ/s640/mabel4.jpg" width="480" yda="true" /></a></div><br />
He kindly went off to the shop for me and duly paid for her and carried her back to the car. He most certainly didn't want to be seen pushing a tea trolley along the pavement.........<br />
<br />
Next problem - it didn't fit into the boot of his nice, but small car. Ha ha. I did jokingly suggest that we leave the boys' behind - take Mabel home, then come back for them later......After some jiggery pokery we managed to get her in. Hubby was rather stressed as he didn't want his car damaged trying to wedge Mabel in.......<br />
<br />
So there you have it, the story of Mabel the trolley.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-22460681045843833402012-03-05T01:20:00.000-08:002012-03-05T01:20:02.652-08:00Diamond Jubilee (of a different kind)Whilst perusing my cookery books yesterday seeking some inspiration for afternoon baking, I came across this book<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7PD0KJqRgQc/T1SDdoiUjCI/AAAAAAAACOc/fdasi82G0l4/s1600/cookbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7PD0KJqRgQc/T1SDdoiUjCI/AAAAAAAACOc/fdasi82G0l4/s400/cookbook.jpg" uda="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
The WI Diamond Jubilee Cookbook printed in 1975. Many of the recipes have been chosen for their clear instructions, the more interesting recipes, and some because the names intrigued the author - Sly Cakes, King George I's Christmas Pudding, Buttery Dick, Guernsey Bean Jar, Oozie-woozie Tart, Australian Jack, Stone Cream, Cawl Mamgu, Fat Rascals, Lord Welby's Sauce, to mention a few!!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QZEWkBRXu5s/T1SEmhJ_jOI/AAAAAAAACOk/zVNEEDSqTyY/s1600/recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QZEWkBRXu5s/T1SEmhJ_jOI/AAAAAAAACOk/zVNEEDSqTyY/s320/recipe.jpg" uda="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I can assure you I didn't attempt any of the above, but did bake some simple Ginger Crispies which went down well with the boys' as most have already gone!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rrlqyyd5nzI/T1SCAnSmeyI/AAAAAAAACOU/kOuDdLttDJA/s1600/o-matic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rrlqyyd5nzI/T1SCAnSmeyI/AAAAAAAACOU/kOuDdLttDJA/s320/o-matic.jpg" uda="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In future I must explore other cook books as I do frequent the same ones time and time again, and neglect ones I feel I may not cook from, but with a bit of time I'll find a whole host of recipes I've never used before.<br />
<br />
Do you find yourselves using the same cook books?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-84510887058065184972012-02-20T00:25:00.000-08:002012-02-20T00:25:00.627-08:00The week that was<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hello All - hope you had a wonderful half term for those who were having one! Ours went by in a flash and I have to say that I feel absolutely shattered. I normally find them quite relaxing, but this one seemed quite intense.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There was a bit of this (but not much)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_PLFnQD7kOU/T0H__9qEUzI/AAAAAAAACNM/ErtzMAAUxnc/s1600/fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_PLFnQD7kOU/T0H__9qEUzI/AAAAAAAACNM/ErtzMAAUxnc/s320/fabric.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Celebrating a 10th birthday</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n_Ks7gXKueo/T0IA_Lg-pAI/AAAAAAAACNc/c70oIQzC4AM/s1600/presents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n_Ks7gXKueo/T0IA_Lg-pAI/AAAAAAAACNc/c70oIQzC4AM/s320/presents.jpg" width="320" yda="true" /></span></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9c2NlP_7V1E/T0IBJMfHVmI/AAAAAAAACNk/vBimCGau9vI/s1600/Birthday+Cake+Bunting+(Stars).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9c2NlP_7V1E/T0IBJMfHVmI/AAAAAAAACNk/vBimCGau9vI/s320/Birthday+Cake+Bunting+(Stars).JPG" width="320" yda="true" /></span></a></div><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">watching this great film</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9PiUejb05UI/T0IAHU5ASaI/AAAAAAAACNU/PX2Ow6t5DFk/s1600/scooter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9PiUejb05UI/T0IAHU5ASaI/AAAAAAAACNU/PX2Ow6t5DFk/s320/scooter.jpg" width="240" yda="true" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">and a little spot of this</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7v8C553H1Vw/T0IBtAv422I/AAAAAAAACN0/DdGDxp4fx6k/s1600/granola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7v8C553H1Vw/T0IBtAv422I/AAAAAAAACN0/DdGDxp4fx6k/s320/granola.jpg" width="240" yda="true" /></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K-RP5639JIY/T0IBeHFmrhI/AAAAAAAACNs/ZQwY0nPOn9k/s1600/sultanas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K-RP5639JIY/T0IBeHFmrhI/AAAAAAAACNs/ZQwY0nPOn9k/s320/sultanas.jpg" width="240" yda="true" /></span></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I won't mention the comings and goings of friends, sleepover, marginal bickering, constant changes of clothes, and the hourly supply of food and water through the week!! If I ever want a career change, I think I'm quite well qualified to run a B & B! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I'm off now for a lie down and an extremely big cup of coffee....</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">See you later in the week.</span>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-59032765764434959942012-02-06T01:38:00.000-08:002012-02-06T01:38:59.752-08:00Keeping the home fires burningI did think that we would never get any snow, not that we had much mind you. This, however gave us the perfect excuse to stay in, light the wood burner, the boys' to lollop round, me to bake and to play with my recent thrifty finds and to finish off a pair of patchwork curtains.<br />
<br />
I have even got the youngest hand sewing some pieces of fabric together to make a new cushion cover for his room - bless! He's made a good start and for someone who has never picked up a needle and thread before, I think he's done a good job!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7oSfTgjJJyQ/Ty-cBIL-SJI/AAAAAAAACLs/tjiUiLfEabY/s1600/sewing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7oSfTgjJJyQ/Ty-cBIL-SJI/AAAAAAAACLs/tjiUiLfEabY/s400/sewing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Our kitchen window looked rather bland and having such a big window I thought I would soften it with a good old faithful bit of patchwork! (note the lack of snow). Better call it a day now on the amount of patchwork now in the house!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdUBvGlYsXg/Ty-cLP1bv1I/AAAAAAAACL0/Rp7b1ybqhSw/s1600/curtain1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZdUBvGlYsXg/Ty-cLP1bv1I/AAAAAAAACL0/Rp7b1ybqhSw/s400/curtain1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymKCfcC74KQ/Ty-cSkNLzEI/AAAAAAAACL8/XMSdOEVNqHY/s1600/curtain2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ymKCfcC74KQ/Ty-cSkNLzEI/AAAAAAAACL8/XMSdOEVNqHY/s400/curtain2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E1DRTmVGZk/Ty-ccX0snII/AAAAAAAACME/wXlvmUQwuzM/s1600/pair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E1DRTmVGZk/Ty-ccX0snII/AAAAAAAACME/wXlvmUQwuzM/s400/pair.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
A few weeks ago I picked up a couple of pretty cups and saucers, both for a mere 50p.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Ko0hbnMg3k/Ty-coUYlVeI/AAAAAAAACMM/SEUqGmuB26M/s1600/cup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Ko0hbnMg3k/Ty-coUYlVeI/AAAAAAAACMM/SEUqGmuB26M/s400/cup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
We were in desperate need for some new place mats and this brand new set of 6 at £2.00 was a bargain. I love the cottages and would quite happily settle in any one of them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TsFhnFl6w4k/Ty-c8lev57I/AAAAAAAACMU/6_QJVl4RvDc/s1600/cottage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TsFhnFl6w4k/Ty-c8lev57I/AAAAAAAACMU/6_QJVl4RvDc/s320/cottage1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ccm1L_F68Fw/Ty-dGDaphwI/AAAAAAAACMc/z_niPkypzKE/s1600/cottage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ccm1L_F68Fw/Ty-dGDaphwI/AAAAAAAACMc/z_niPkypzKE/s320/cottage2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YM-bMPVPC8/Ty-dZCuzKQI/AAAAAAAACMk/IvR_bZEY7l8/s1600/cottage3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YM-bMPVPC8/Ty-dZCuzKQI/AAAAAAAACMk/IvR_bZEY7l8/s320/cottage3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lAQrvrVEOCA/Ty-dsEu9cwI/AAAAAAAACM0/DN97jooC8qw/s1600/cottage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lAQrvrVEOCA/Ty-dsEu9cwI/AAAAAAAACM0/DN97jooC8qw/s320/cottage4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7oQZdB9r_8/Ty-d1TjUutI/AAAAAAAACM8/_9L9_AfXgNg/s1600/cottage5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7oQZdB9r_8/Ty-d1TjUutI/AAAAAAAACM8/_9L9_AfXgNg/s320/cottage5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bAO1dTFibI0/Ty-d87HsjWI/AAAAAAAACNE/uZyJ3FMyADo/s1600/cottage6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bAO1dTFibI0/Ty-d87HsjWI/AAAAAAAACNE/uZyJ3FMyADo/s320/cottage6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
What would be your dream home?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-8993353627827460352012-01-26T06:47:00.000-08:002012-01-26T06:47:29.040-08:00Happy Days<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">After having a rather turbulent 2 weeks, I buried my head and did a few crafty pick me ups! Some good has come out of it as I've got lots of stuff finished (although I wouldn't want a re-run of the last 2 weeks).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Remember in my last post I was doing a patchwork hexagon hoop - I wasn't altogether pleased with the white fabric I had chosen but I was at the point of no return. To rectify the choice, I added some embroidery stitches which has made me a little happier!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NBJTc277l7g/TyFlxnIXVzI/AAAAAAAACLM/uWpPuKiFIiE/s1600/hoop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NBJTc277l7g/TyFlxnIXVzI/AAAAAAAACLM/uWpPuKiFIiE/s320/hoop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My bark cloth curtains were an unexpected find on Ebay - a snitch at only £3.00, it was a </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">wonderful turn-up. </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HE1IP7-d0Lg/TyFl8arr3xI/AAAAAAAACLU/G7D2ju5gFjw/s1600/curtain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HE1IP7-d0Lg/TyFl8arr3xI/AAAAAAAACLU/G7D2ju5gFjw/s320/curtain.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Having spent quite a lot of time cooing over CK's Patch book, and loving the flower picture in there, I set to with making my own. I used a pretty frame I got way before Christmas. It was one of those moments where I thought 'I'll eventually find a use for it' (that was my justification). I think it was meant to have a 'crafty' project in it rather than a photo!</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d2AkxQkGLaY/TyFmLHj2uzI/AAAAAAAACLc/E-VwWNKB9TQ/s1600/picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d2AkxQkGLaY/TyFmLHj2uzI/AAAAAAAACLc/E-VwWNKB9TQ/s320/picture.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I was quite pleased with the result and it was fun cutting out floral flowers and arranging them.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hopefully, service will resume fully next week! Have a great weekend.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpaTFKGDyWE/TyFmX3tfJtI/AAAAAAAACLk/-Q5sD0IK8XY/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpaTFKGDyWE/TyFmX3tfJtI/AAAAAAAACLk/-Q5sD0IK8XY/s320/flowers.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-976270571624661582012-01-13T01:44:00.000-08:002012-01-13T01:44:55.919-08:00For the love ofembroidery hoops and patchwork hexagons, both of which I can't get enough of at the moment.<br />
<br />
I remember seeing in Liberty's a couple of years ago, fabric displayed in embroidery hoops which I thought was a novel idea. I soon came home and replicated it. You may remember me posting about it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wGRMh5L-zis/Tw_6aU01lZI/AAAAAAAACK8/djMnf-9_k4Q/s1600/liberty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wGRMh5L-zis/Tw_6aU01lZI/AAAAAAAACK8/djMnf-9_k4Q/s400/liberty.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As my love of hexagons grew, I fancied combining the two. One, I made towards the end of year using various oddments of fabric.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uCbwrMDaYWE/Tw_8L5gBYvI/AAAAAAAACLE/aczsPIXX7jQ/s1600/hexagon1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uCbwrMDaYWE/Tw_8L5gBYvI/AAAAAAAACLE/aczsPIXX7jQ/s400/hexagon1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The one I'm currently working on is a little more structured. I'm kind of wishing I hadn't used the white fabric but we'll see what the finished article looks like. The hoop is a big one - 12" in diameter.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzf2VvCGdWg/Tw_5KiQQ03I/AAAAAAAACKs/ZSBvVZ3nDaY/s1600/hexagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pzf2VvCGdWg/Tw_5KiQQ03I/AAAAAAAACKs/ZSBvVZ3nDaY/s400/hexagon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
It is a cheap way of creating a new hanging item for your wall. If you don't fancy sewing hexagons together you could just display some pretty fabric with some ribbon, alternatively there's lots of lovely wrapping paper around so that could be another use with the hoop.<br />
<br />
Have a lovely weekend!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iTlDwDH91Xc/Tw_5pBDxgJI/AAAAAAAACK0/f6kkX-PqiVg/s1600/daffs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kba="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iTlDwDH91Xc/Tw_5pBDxgJI/AAAAAAAACK0/f6kkX-PqiVg/s400/daffs.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-35442610934006412972012-01-09T06:15:00.000-08:002012-01-09T06:15:18.883-08:00Something old to something new<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">At the start of every year, I always have a good clear out - most goes to charity some gets free cycled, other bits and bobs either get sold on Amazon or Ebay.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This year, I thought I would do that, but also utilise my crafty stash and other items round the house to give everything a bit of a lift.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Re-work scraps of wool and an old hanger into a nice woolly one</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w1UyU5ZMkxY/Twr1CjyKbaI/AAAAAAAACKE/lliP2Y3yX88/s1600/hanger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="240" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w1UyU5ZMkxY/Twr1CjyKbaI/AAAAAAAACKE/lliP2Y3yX88/s320/hanger.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">an old treacle tin into a container for some bulbs</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z9L96AVL6lQ/Twr1N779QlI/AAAAAAAACKM/mx8MsbLfB9E/s1600/bulbs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z9L96AVL6lQ/Twr1N779QlI/AAAAAAAACKM/mx8MsbLfB9E/s400/bulbs.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">some old jumpers into a cosy winter cushion</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6BHeSWXuvY4/Twr1YQDg8dI/AAAAAAAACKU/zAiGG3dMQCI/s1600/cushion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6BHeSWXuvY4/Twr1YQDg8dI/AAAAAAAACKU/zAiGG3dMQCI/s400/cushion.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">vintage fabrics and scraps of lace into lavender sachets</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SqZoso6s7vQ/Twr1gehFREI/AAAAAAAACKc/UVAPRt-4zh0/s1600/lavender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="300" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SqZoso6s7vQ/Twr1gehFREI/AAAAAAAACKc/UVAPRt-4zh0/s400/lavender.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">and an old tin of paint to add some colour to the bannister rail</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W629mmeE43k/Twr1nHrAa-I/AAAAAAAACKk/1pm74hn-4tM/s1600/bannister.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W629mmeE43k/Twr1nHrAa-I/AAAAAAAACKk/1pm74hn-4tM/s400/bannister.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Who know what else I'll come up with! What's on your agenda this month?</span>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-58744964257458103872012-01-06T01:34:00.000-08:002012-01-06T01:34:57.587-08:00Up I come!<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hello folks - remember me! You may think I've been hibernating all this time (since September), but you know how life just gets in the way sometimes? No excuses, just plain day to day stuff here at The Blueberry Patch household.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I hope everyone had a good Christmas and New Year? Isn't the weather different to a year ago. Unlike the last few days, it could almost be Spring here (albeit cold). The birds are singing, the bulbs are growing, I still have pinks and roses flowering. All very odd.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Anyway, plans are afoot for lots of projects and makes - most of which I'll share with you, but here's one I made earlier!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1m_NnKaVqz8/Twa-hHK6bzI/AAAAAAAACJ0/7O695nd3AzE/s1600/Beautiful+Valentine%2527s+bunting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="277" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1m_NnKaVqz8/Twa-hHK6bzI/AAAAAAAACJ0/7O695nd3AzE/s400/Beautiful+Valentine%2527s+bunting.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I'll be back again shortly (I hope!).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Have a good weekend.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZpH_NWmhH0/Twa_qrtPI8I/AAAAAAAACJ8/1IcNmGB9qNg/s1600/light.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MZpH_NWmhH0/Twa_qrtPI8I/AAAAAAAACJ8/1IcNmGB9qNg/s400/light.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-44864239401546552782011-09-26T02:57:00.000-07:002011-09-26T02:57:15.618-07:00Too many projectsand not enough of this<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gpXBrQRxTYk/ToBIqM_3m_I/AAAAAAAACJc/4ySYLmrzfTg/s1600/clocktime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" kca="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gpXBrQRxTYk/ToBIqM_3m_I/AAAAAAAACJc/4ySYLmrzfTg/s400/clocktime.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Why oh why do I start endless projects which I probably won't end up finishing any time soon!<br />
<br />
Christmas stockings for the website<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_KchZEvF9k/ToBL85SFAEI/AAAAAAAACJw/ON-sbFtEzlA/s1600/stockings1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kca="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r_KchZEvF9k/ToBL85SFAEI/AAAAAAAACJw/ON-sbFtEzlA/s320/stockings1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Wool to start a scarf<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zM_id6geC3g/ToBLl7VJnxI/AAAAAAAACJs/fCZYro2Hizo/s1600/scarf1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zM_id6geC3g/ToBLl7VJnxI/AAAAAAAACJs/fCZYro2Hizo/s400/scarf1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
A random knitted tortoise (I think it was the patchwork which attracted me to it!)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mOjzaR8BkQ8/ToBJYZ1_1sI/AAAAAAAACJg/17Uv86cuyhA/s1600/tortoise1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kca="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mOjzaR8BkQ8/ToBJYZ1_1sI/AAAAAAAACJg/17Uv86cuyhA/s320/tortoise1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
Knitted 'paper' chains for Christmas<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYoEcEdbyv4/ToBF5vxuwHI/AAAAAAAACJY/GGwc9QMP91E/s1600/chain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYoEcEdbyv4/ToBF5vxuwHI/AAAAAAAACJY/GGwc9QMP91E/s320/chain.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
However, I did finish one project off last week - my patchwork ironing board cover - at last. It's only taken over a year to complete!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YzV4_sOBbgI/ToBKjUqdzII/AAAAAAAACJo/2ZCCEka0eaM/s1600/ironingboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kca="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YzV4_sOBbgI/ToBKjUqdzII/AAAAAAAACJo/2ZCCEka0eaM/s400/ironingboard.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
How many projects have you on the go at the moment?Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-70219723908173108442011-09-21T01:20:00.000-07:002011-09-21T01:20:45.890-07:00A spot of vintageMorning all - remember me! I can't believe it's almost 3 weeks since I was last in blog land. I must do better.<br />
<br />
The month hasn't been turning out as well as I would have liked - lots of faff and grief, and more importantly getting used to a new routine of one child in secondary school and one still in primary. We have a very tired 11 yr old at the moment who's going to bed earlier and earlier! Mind you he's out of the house for a total of 9 hours, then homework to get on with - all good stamina building I guess....<br />
<br />
It can only get easier (I hope).<br />
<br />
Back to 'a spot of vintage' - whilst in Greenwich in July we had a jaunt round the vintage fair and shops. I'm always a lover of the vintage clothing but I'm not a dress person so never end up buying anything but I love the style. Anyway, I came across this - <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SsFWA7buBPA/TnmdI8nryQI/AAAAAAAACJA/05f3aRCeWO0/s1600/crochet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SsFWA7buBPA/TnmdI8nryQI/AAAAAAAACJA/05f3aRCeWO0/s400/crochet.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
a vintage crochet sleeveless cardigan-esqe number. I tried it on and actually quite liked it. As it was a reasonable price, I snatched it up. Having had it hanging on the hanger since we returned it may well stay there. I'm not sure of it's age but it's in good condition and is made from wool.<br />
<br />
You know the phrase - 'if you keep something long enough, it'll eventually come back into fashion' - that's never held quite true for me but I'm obviously getting to the age now that things are coming back into fashion which I remember. I now have a pair of shoes which went out and are now back in again!<br />
<br />
I bought these<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YmlR-B9-3UI/TnmdVlPIkjI/AAAAAAAACJE/AZQZvGVyZMc/s1600/shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YmlR-B9-3UI/TnmdVlPIkjI/AAAAAAAACJE/AZQZvGVyZMc/s400/shoes.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
brogues from Laura Ashley about 15 years ago, obviously wore them and they have been languishing in the back of the wardrobe for some time. I'm always reluctant to get rid of shoes and I'm glad I didn't with these, as lace-up brogues are all back in fashion. I'm not sure whether a 15 yr old pair of shoes counts as vintage but I can pretend!<br />
<br />
These vintage costume dolls were a bit of a 'random' purchase and a very bizarre one according to the rest of the family, but as they put a smile on my face, why not!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WV9GC1Mx14Q/TnmdeTMrGPI/AAAAAAAACJI/vbx6X4z7w8U/s1600/soldiers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hca="true" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WV9GC1Mx14Q/TnmdeTMrGPI/AAAAAAAACJI/vbx6X4z7w8U/s400/soldiers.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Have a good day and I'll pop along to say hello shortly, along with sharing some holiday snaps which are still on the camera...Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-57948260267728144502011-09-02T07:26:00.000-07:002011-09-02T07:26:17.843-07:00A spot of customisationToday was day 1 of a child free house and it feels so quiet - no friends door knocking, the dull sound of electronics and TV's in the background, the clank of lego being tipped out, the bickering.....,requests for endless food and drink - I actually miss those sounds! even though they drove me mad.<br />
<br />
Jack went back yesterday and Toby had his first secondary school day today and boy was he excited - despite the early start to walk to the bus, not relying on me to remember things, learning how to do a tie! and not returning till 4.30 each day. We took a photograph of him in exactly the same spot as we did when he first went to school 7 years ago - how time flies.<br />
<br />
I'm really looking forward to his return and the success of accomplishing so many 'firsts'<br />
<br />
Anyway, with the onset of chilly mornings, I thought I would customise an old denim jacket. I've had it the best part of a decade and really wanted to jazz it up a little.<br />
<br />
I sewed a CK patch I've had for a while on the arm<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7ByI2pjZpU/TmDll0EzEhI/AAAAAAAACIo/cOidy_0q8yo/s1600/badge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7ByI2pjZpU/TmDll0EzEhI/AAAAAAAACIo/cOidy_0q8yo/s320/badge.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><br />
and with some Liberty print bias binding I then sewed this around the cuffs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xiW6h_We1gI/TmDltHCNa3I/AAAAAAAACIs/widwbzomSLk/s1600/cuff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xiW6h_We1gI/TmDltHCNa3I/AAAAAAAACIs/widwbzomSLk/s320/cuff.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><br />
and then round the bottom edge<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_fzVXdBvVPM/TmDl5aYjSQI/AAAAAAAACIw/DKgvuWMP968/s1600/trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_fzVXdBvVPM/TmDl5aYjSQI/AAAAAAAACIw/DKgvuWMP968/s320/trim.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S3mqRNO0DV8/TmDmBWnqd8I/AAAAAAAACI0/22DLR7PGwGQ/s1600/trim2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S3mqRNO0DV8/TmDmBWnqd8I/AAAAAAAACI0/22DLR7PGwGQ/s320/trim2.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><br />
I'm pretty pleased with the overall look and has given my old jacket a new lease of life.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-abnunO8o5ns/TmDmWfXb3_I/AAAAAAAACI4/QpQd_jiszb0/s1600/jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-abnunO8o5ns/TmDmWfXb3_I/AAAAAAAACI4/QpQd_jiszb0/s320/jacket.jpg" width="320" xaa="true" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><em>(double click to zoom in)</em></div><br />
Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzsWxBdT8t0/TmDmwUow-6I/AAAAAAAACI8/NCVuexT8nXU/s1600/house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QzsWxBdT8t0/TmDmwUow-6I/AAAAAAAACI8/NCVuexT8nXU/s320/house.jpg" width="240" xaa="true" /></a></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-18226756578947006442011-08-24T03:41:00.000-07:002011-08-24T03:41:04.092-07:00On the turnI'm back after a little break down in the beautiful Kent countryside. I'll share more of that with you once I've sorted through the enormous amount of snaps taken!<br />
<br />
The end of August is well and truly upon us and there is a distinct 'change' in the air. The morning and evenings are getting darker, the leaves are on the turn and the berries are bursting with colour.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SRrI67ZeDpE/TlTUL_c4nuI/AAAAAAAACH4/Rxg2B5om8VI/s1600/berries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SRrI67ZeDpE/TlTUL_c4nuI/AAAAAAAACH4/Rxg2B5om8VI/s400/berries.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
All in all we can't complain too much with the weather this summer (maybe in my part of the country at least). I do however, always feel robbed when the summer comes to an end. Perhaps because the winter is not my most favourite time of year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxuBFK4pZYQ/TlTUT_r3iUI/AAAAAAAACH8/kHlcJmCzcrM/s1600/dahlia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IxuBFK4pZYQ/TlTUT_r3iUI/AAAAAAAACH8/kHlcJmCzcrM/s400/dahlia.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
For now, I shall take pleasure in a few balmy days, the dew on the grass, the last few flowering plants and the glory which September brings.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qb5tx4eQxFM/TlTUagb6exI/AAAAAAAACIA/XCVi0SdnKDI/s1600/dappled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qb5tx4eQxFM/TlTUagb6exI/AAAAAAAACIA/XCVi0SdnKDI/s400/dappled.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3EuQWsxcq4w/TlTUi_6ef8I/AAAAAAAACIE/cVZGjIGh1_k/s1600/dappled1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" qaa="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3EuQWsxcq4w/TlTUi_6ef8I/AAAAAAAACIE/cVZGjIGh1_k/s400/dappled1.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RrH98eTVlEE/TlTUp4ipmnI/AAAAAAAACII/UbUCG3M2FVc/s1600/dew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RrH98eTVlEE/TlTUp4ipmnI/AAAAAAAACII/UbUCG3M2FVc/s400/dew.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9mqAiBkT0ig/TlTUykHxKFI/AAAAAAAACIM/OQKypYgBaJw/s1600/flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9mqAiBkT0ig/TlTUykHxKFI/AAAAAAAACIM/OQKypYgBaJw/s400/flower.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K65uAe5l5pM/TlTU5ZgAQFI/AAAAAAAACIQ/Yshr-0_Pl6c/s1600/flower1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K65uAe5l5pM/TlTU5ZgAQFI/AAAAAAAACIQ/Yshr-0_Pl6c/s400/flower1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I2S_p9LGiTY/TlTU_UjlRNI/AAAAAAAACIU/adbLFe855lo/s1600/flower2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" qaa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I2S_p9LGiTY/TlTU_UjlRNI/AAAAAAAACIU/adbLFe855lo/s400/flower2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I'll be back shortly with piccie overload, but for now, I better catch up with your lovely blogs!<br />
<br />
TTFN.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-74894248882239025302011-08-04T07:19:00.000-07:002011-08-04T07:19:58.770-07:00From one to anotherHope everyone is keeping well?<br />
<br />
We took a jaunt to Greenwich last weekend, and what a pleasant time it was too - even more so when we can indulge in some free museums which entertain the boys and a couple of vintage markets for me!<br />
<br />
The weather was beautiful, if not a little hot (if I dare say it).<br />
<br />
This view, I could never tire of..............<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/---9SdcypoOI/TjqmJISLnzI/AAAAAAAACHk/Y8l2N0IiAwY/s1600/view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/---9SdcypoOI/TjqmJISLnzI/AAAAAAAACHk/Y8l2N0IiAwY/s400/view.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jNlWhJ8YStc/TjqmUw_sOWI/AAAAAAAACHo/6vu5lb8iEpQ/s1600/view2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jNlWhJ8YStc/TjqmUw_sOWI/AAAAAAAACHo/6vu5lb8iEpQ/s400/view2.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The beautiful building is the National Maritime Museum. In front of the building was where the Olympic Equestrian Trials were taking place. It'll be in beautiful surroundings next year, and there seemed to be a lot of active work going in to make everywhere look good.<br />
<br />
At the top of Greenwich Park is the Royal Observatory, again another beautiful building.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zOxIB2y1xrg/TjqmqmXoLWI/AAAAAAAACHs/O7aOSsJtblE/s1600/observatory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zOxIB2y1xrg/TjqmqmXoLWI/AAAAAAAACHs/O7aOSsJtblE/s320/observatory.jpg" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I was pleasantly surprised by the number of lovely old buildings in Greenwich - a lot of which I ashamedly didn't take pictures of. If you're near the area it's well worth taking an amble there.<br />
<br />
On Sunday we went into London and took a walk along the Southbank to the Vintage Festival which was taking place from the Friday to the Sunday - lots of free activities for children, music and most importantly a Vintage Market Place. Serious lack of photo's, in fact none - oops.<br />
<br />
Good old Cath K was there with a great pop up shop. My purchase was this vintage fabric peg bag.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OsAVD1EKxXw/Tjqn57I72EI/AAAAAAAACHw/HZnFcUVTuBY/s1600/newpegbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OsAVD1EKxXw/Tjqn57I72EI/AAAAAAAACHw/HZnFcUVTuBY/s400/newpegbag.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
My old one - <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uwtsr00eNAM/TjqoNzDtywI/AAAAAAAACH0/45sS11CvOIo/s1600/oldpegbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uwtsr00eNAM/TjqoNzDtywI/AAAAAAAACH0/45sS11CvOIo/s640/oldpegbag.jpg" t$="true" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">also a Cath K one, but it's seen better days. Interestingly enough, it was my first ever CK purchase over 12 years ago! It's done well! She had a concessionary shop in Harrods at the time and my mum took me to it saying I would love the style, which of course I did. I didn't know who she was and probably most other people didn't either. I can't remember how much I paid for it back then, but of course the cowboy print is no longer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's certainly not going in the bin, but I shall keep it for prosperity - you never know it may be worth a bit in a few years time - despite the damage!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">TTFN.</div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-5170871913111557242011-07-29T00:25:00.000-07:002011-07-29T00:25:48.236-07:00SmileWell, here it is - 'The Chair' - completed. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yX-kPo2QKVg/TjJe-llcixI/AAAAAAAACHM/pVtB-Rx4AKQ/s1600/finishedchair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yX-kPo2QKVg/TjJe-llcixI/AAAAAAAACHM/pVtB-Rx4AKQ/s400/finishedchair.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
I have to say that the anticipation of making it was far worse than actually making it (like a lot of things). I did make sure I constantly checked, pinned and tacked which made a huge difference. The back is by no means perfect, but on a scale of 1-10, I'm at a 9 so feel very satisfied!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3N-aEZ-bEno/TjJfWYF_jYI/AAAAAAAACHU/UjQubcxx9lE/s1600/finishedchair3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3N-aEZ-bEno/TjJfWYF_jYI/AAAAAAAACHU/UjQubcxx9lE/s640/finishedchair3.jpg" t$="true" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16W5ARUOTaM/TjJfMJHRlpI/AAAAAAAACHQ/5kHWr1Zu1nc/s1600/finishedchair2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-16W5ARUOTaM/TjJfMJHRlpI/AAAAAAAACHQ/5kHWr1Zu1nc/s320/finishedchair2.jpg" t$="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
My slight gripe was when I was sewing the patchwork rows together, I didn't notice that there were 2 squares in the same place on 2 rows - grrrhhhh, but as it's on the curve of the chair you don't actually notice too much.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7Nr6A5dnH4/TjJfhlIz_2I/AAAAAAAACHY/o5DI7z6X2CE/s1600/finishedchair4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7Nr6A5dnH4/TjJfhlIz_2I/AAAAAAAACHY/o5DI7z6X2CE/s400/finishedchair4.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GIvBB-OQxOU/TjJgH6T65RI/AAAAAAAACHg/XJWWD-yey_g/s1600/finisishedchair1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GIvBB-OQxOU/TjJgH6T65RI/AAAAAAAACHg/XJWWD-yey_g/s640/finisishedchair1.jpg" t$="true" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>With regards to patchwork - there's an awful lot of it in the house now, so better stop in my quest to patchwork the entire house!<br />
<br />
I hope everyone is enjoying the summer holidays so far (or not?). We've had lots of scrapes, bumps, cuts, falls off scooters down big hills etc etc etc. Plasters have run out and TCP is running low but apart from that all is good!<br />
<br />
Have a good weekend!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-25183023264932680292011-07-20T07:07:00.000-07:002011-07-20T07:07:45.667-07:00The ChairWell, day 3 of the summer holidays, and all seems OK at the moment! Plans are afoot and I feel somewhat more relaxed than I did last week.<br />
<br />
Do you remember my <a href="http://theblueberrypatch-sarah.blogspot.com/2011/07/bit-of-boy-thing.html"><em><span style="color: #cc0000;">post</span></em> </a>about the chair I was planning to revamp and patchwork? Well, it's moving on quite nicely. I managed to get the seat completed at the weekend so will now move onto the back of the chair.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aeAdEa_fRBI/TibgwdkISWI/AAAAAAAACHI/S-iCsTTNdzQ/s1600/CHAIR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aeAdEa_fRBI/TibgwdkISWI/AAAAAAAACHI/S-iCsTTNdzQ/s400/CHAIR.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CVmBE1n9OJg/TibezwDx2eI/AAAAAAAACGw/MGyIh3KpCCw/s1600/chair1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CVmBE1n9OJg/TibezwDx2eI/AAAAAAAACGw/MGyIh3KpCCw/s400/chair1.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
To an upholsterer I've probably made 101 mistakes, but considering I've never upholstered a chair before, let alone in patchwork, I feel mighty pleased.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mNojZO9lH_0/Tibe9B_PITI/AAAAAAAACG0/BNWPf-2OZgo/s1600/chair2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mNojZO9lH_0/Tibe9B_PITI/AAAAAAAACG0/BNWPf-2OZgo/s400/chair2.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
The front part was a little tricky and required a couple of 'hospital type corners' and then trying to get the lines to line up was somewhat interesting.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qMR6-EhLLVc/TibfFMwH7TI/AAAAAAAACG4/kceDfL9F9Ys/s1600/chair3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qMR6-EhLLVc/TibfFMwH7TI/AAAAAAAACG4/kceDfL9F9Ys/s400/chair3.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_NCEq5bOG4/TibfN7LjmBI/AAAAAAAACG8/0ah8kb5xa24/s1600/chair4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_NCEq5bOG4/TibfN7LjmBI/AAAAAAAACG8/0ah8kb5xa24/s400/chair4.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Unlike various other projects where I tend to bulldozer my way through, I took my time and even tacked where I needed to, and it paid off tremendously especially when trying to get it straight and even.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzsFcKRbJSM/TibfVhElPaI/AAAAAAAACHA/1Sx2B7nwMXM/s1600/chair5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fzsFcKRbJSM/TibfVhElPaI/AAAAAAAACHA/1Sx2B7nwMXM/s400/chair5.jpg" t$="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kiDv4XlSeBE/TibfcxUe-4I/AAAAAAAACHE/erxT1XJiiPg/s1600/chair6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kiDv4XlSeBE/TibfcxUe-4I/AAAAAAAACHE/erxT1XJiiPg/s400/chair6.jpg" t$="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I'll keep you posted with the back and will hopefully have one of those tra-la la moments very soon......!<br />
<br />
TTFN.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-25967273538618668992011-07-14T00:40:00.000-07:002011-07-14T00:40:30.247-07:00ChaptersI apologise about my lack of posts and comments at the moment - it's been a whirlwind and frenzy of activities these last few weeks, and more so with the end of primary school for Toby.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CQjmjxwunxM/Th6bYUSyCWI/AAAAAAAACGo/NmES6Ze6lsk/s1600/certificate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CQjmjxwunxM/Th6bYUSyCWI/AAAAAAAACGo/NmES6Ze6lsk/s320/certificate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IX2eW3qxhs4/Th6besygotI/AAAAAAAACGs/mymR2IAupJw/s1600/yearbook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IX2eW3qxhs4/Th6besygotI/AAAAAAAACGs/mymR2IAupJw/s320/yearbook.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We all know that at some point our children leave the comfy confines of primary school to move onto bigger pastures, but I didn't quite realise how traumatic the whole experience was. More so for parents I think. Having been to a talk by the head of Yr7 at the new secondary school, he highlighted the anxieties the children might have. In actual fact, they were more about my anxieties rather than my child.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3U6aAyBqPvY/Th6a_9Pn32I/AAAAAAAACGc/uuhT0zvqpvQ/s1600/book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3U6aAyBqPvY/Th6a_9Pn32I/AAAAAAAACGc/uuhT0zvqpvQ/s320/book.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I don't mean about making new friends, getting lost in a big school, homework and all of those things (although they are present in the back of my mind). It's more about my little boy growing up and becoming independent. He doesn't look like a primary school boy now - he's definitely ready for what secondary school throws at him. I only wish I was at the same level.......<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jqba3K4E_fA/Th6bIGITQOI/AAAAAAAACGg/bKdtDpsplwQ/s1600/tie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jqba3K4E_fA/Th6bIGITQOI/AAAAAAAACGg/bKdtDpsplwQ/s320/tie.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Don't get me wrong, I will rise to the new chapter in his life with him, but I think we as parents' can feel a little sad about the transition.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZVLtyMUnWI/Th6bRfjx_kI/AAAAAAAACGk/6cB8QH4Lzk8/s1600/poem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" m$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZVLtyMUnWI/Th6bRfjx_kI/AAAAAAAACGk/6cB8QH4Lzk8/s400/poem.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
I'm ready to wind down now - fortunately we finish on Friday (all our teacher training days are in 1 week, which is next week). Reports are out, SAT results are back (no complaints, phew), leavers service is over, leavers party done, music concerts done, sports day done. Just got to get through today and half of tomorrow, teachers' presents to give and then we can slob out!<br />
<br />
Enjoy the day!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-58633627706397953012011-07-01T01:34:00.000-07:002011-07-01T01:34:01.021-07:00A bit of a boy thingHooray! the sun is out and the weather is set to be good for the weekend. Hopefully summer is here....<br />
<br />
Toby went on his first residential this week (albeit for 2 nights and 10 mins up the road - don't ask). Prior to him going, I ran through all his bits and bobs explaining don't put wet clothes next to dry, all dirty clothes in a carrier bag, and flannel etc to go in the plastic bag to save getting everything else wet. <br />
<br />
Well, he returned after having a great time. I unpacked everything and at first glance I thought he had done really well as he had done exactly what I asked. I unloaded the toilet bag, and guess what.........nothing had been used...apart from brushing his teeth which only got done once..........I didn't investigate any further as I didn't really want to know. Let's just say he had a really good shower and a long session with the toothbrush! BOYS.....<br />
<br />
A couple of weeks ago, FIL came round with a big plastic box full of cars. We left it in the garage until last night when I thought I'd have a rummage to see if it was worth keeping any of them. Now I know you ladies are probably not into toy cars! but I thought you might appreciate this little beauty.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVAplMnsqjE/Tg2E25nWAHI/AAAAAAAACGA/wgCGuLmFUfg/s1600/caravan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pVAplMnsqjE/Tg2E25nWAHI/AAAAAAAACGA/wgCGuLmFUfg/s320/caravan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sHXJyM8cSvE/Tg2E8ibU3cI/AAAAAAAACGE/p8Qir-Agxl0/s1600/caravan1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sHXJyM8cSvE/Tg2E8ibU3cI/AAAAAAAACGE/p8Qir-Agxl0/s320/caravan1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SaEQNCqOefU/Tg2FCU_YZ-I/AAAAAAAACGI/c9XJGvvU52M/s1600/caravan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SaEQNCqOefU/Tg2FCU_YZ-I/AAAAAAAACGI/c9XJGvvU52M/s320/caravan2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I'm definitely claiming it for myself - loving the little plastic plant on the table.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhjCkl3dPuE/Tg2FHq8zMPI/AAAAAAAACGM/ogqL-AAAgz4/s1600/caravan3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhjCkl3dPuE/Tg2FHq8zMPI/AAAAAAAACGM/ogqL-AAAgz4/s320/caravan3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Just to finish off with something girly - my next project - <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itgvl6irKlM/Tg2FONryxLI/AAAAAAAACGQ/5ioYxdVpmlg/s1600/chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-itgvl6irKlM/Tg2FONryxLI/AAAAAAAACGQ/5ioYxdVpmlg/s320/chair.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
We've got a chair in our bedroom which could do with a makeover. I've always lusted after the patchwork chairs in Cath Kidston but I don't lust the price. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O-G_-VS1UG4/Tg2FWRudsJI/AAAAAAAACGU/F4LU-HTRw7s/s1600/patchwork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O-G_-VS1UG4/Tg2FWRudsJI/AAAAAAAACGU/F4LU-HTRw7s/s320/patchwork.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-19b1JjF_tmc/Tg2FdNA1lrI/AAAAAAAACGY/Dpd6TAccuU0/s1600/patchwork1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-19b1JjF_tmc/Tg2FdNA1lrI/AAAAAAAACGY/Dpd6TAccuU0/s320/patchwork1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Having never done upholstery before I thought I'd give it a go - starting off with the seat and then going from there. It might require some mathematical logic to get it right so will rope in hubby for that one! I'll let you know how I get on.<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-10263352298980812632011-06-23T02:26:00.000-07:002011-06-23T02:26:09.575-07:00Something differentWith this chilly weather I've had the urge to do more baking than normal. Fortunately I have a house full of willing eaters!<br />
<br />
Wanting to re-stock the larder shelves with jam, I thought I'd set to and make some slightly different jams from the usual fruit ones.<br />
<br />
The first was Lavender jelly. I've always been put off making jellies as I can't be bothered with jelly bags and the like. This one was more of an infusion, whereby you put the lavender flowers in a muslin bag and let it simmer in the liquid. I've also never used powdered pectin before but obviously in this case I had to use it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ra_ohG9halg/TgMFZs6YyuI/AAAAAAAACFs/fQ_nJ8lm-wg/s1600/pectin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ra_ohG9halg/TgMFZs6YyuI/AAAAAAAACFs/fQ_nJ8lm-wg/s320/pectin.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I was alarmed by the lumpy mess initially but that soon dispersed.<br />
<br />
The result - a lovely fragrant jelly with the scent being stronger than the taste. I might infuse it for longer next time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SCn2z7sfro0/TgMFe0DkyxI/AAAAAAAACFw/lOo7CeJj3bM/s1600/lavender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SCn2z7sfro0/TgMFe0DkyxI/AAAAAAAACFw/lOo7CeJj3bM/s320/lavender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As I was on a roll and with my new best friend, the powdered pectin I sourced a recipe for some Rose Petal Jam. This recipe required you to blitz the rose petals and add them to the other ingredients so you actually get the texture and taste of the petals.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aO2nzS5pdEw/TgMFowjpI7I/AAAAAAAACF0/WdDvdRXKYPQ/s1600/rosejam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aO2nzS5pdEw/TgMFowjpI7I/AAAAAAAACF0/WdDvdRXKYPQ/s320/rosejam.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I wasn't initially sure about this as I was concerned about having a mouth full of petals, but actually it works really, really well. The fragrance is lovely and the taste is just right. Blitzing them really helped.<br />
<br />
All in all, a great success. Next time I'll do bigger quantities.<br />
<br />
Onto something completely different - I repainted the downstairs toilet the other day and had a wall which needed filling, I've filled it with these swallows.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGoHTz1guC4/TgMF9NldUTI/AAAAAAAACF4/ugbc5e6kSMU/s1600/swallows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGoHTz1guC4/TgMF9NldUTI/AAAAAAAACF4/ugbc5e6kSMU/s320/swallows.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I'd seen something similar in the Berry Red catalogue and was drawn to the pastel colours on offer. Always on a mission to see if I can get something cheaper, I found my ones on Ebay, so was mighty pleased.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yTjdfP51qls/TgMGEyOfL1I/AAAAAAAACF8/bPO1Cq8R06g/s1600/swallo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yTjdfP51qls/TgMGEyOfL1I/AAAAAAAACF8/bPO1Cq8R06g/s320/swallo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I guess they're a modern take on the flying ducks!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-59126561424388694662011-06-16T23:37:00.000-07:002011-06-16T23:37:23.202-07:00It does what it says on the tin (or quilt)The weather's on a bit of a crash course at the moment - we're due for a day of wet weather and I think Sunday will be the only respite we get. Lots of indoor stuff this weekend I think!<br />
<br />
A couple of weeks ago I was on a mission to make a quilt (a simple one). Not wanting to spend a lot on supplies, I turned to what I had in my workroom.<br />
<br />
Cerise pink fabric was left over from a cushion and other things I had made.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GvCcCFWJj78/Tfr1FsaKYYI/AAAAAAAACFU/vfmnqGcBtwk/s1600/cerise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GvCcCFWJj78/Tfr1FsaKYYI/AAAAAAAACFU/vfmnqGcBtwk/s320/cerise.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Candy stripe sheet was from a vintage fair.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71_Y17jsuN8/Tfr1LgYSstI/AAAAAAAACFY/HfB0OP1ZrFo/s1600/candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-71_Y17jsuN8/Tfr1LgYSstI/AAAAAAAACFY/HfB0OP1ZrFo/s320/candy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Floral sheets were from a charity shop.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NSFI1NCB41o/Tfr1S9VJImI/AAAAAAAACFc/LIYRQf8WX2U/s1600/floral.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NSFI1NCB41o/Tfr1S9VJImI/AAAAAAAACFc/LIYRQf8WX2U/s320/floral.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The size was very much determined by the floral sheet as I decided that I would use that as the reverse. So actually the size is only really a double.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlypXvfPZm0/Tfr1cLRlGQI/AAAAAAAACFg/8aYDUhjAfD0/s1600/reverse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rlypXvfPZm0/Tfr1cLRlGQI/AAAAAAAACFg/8aYDUhjAfD0/s320/reverse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mOWdomQB7Sc/Tfr1goq3MtI/AAAAAAAACFk/QngBtYaAzRg/s1600/reverse1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mOWdomQB7Sc/Tfr1goq3MtI/AAAAAAAACFk/QngBtYaAzRg/s320/reverse1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I did have to but some lovely wadding to go between the 2 layers, but I needed some anyway so the remaining will be used for other projects.<br />
<br />
I completed it last week, just prior to our trip to London, and I love it. To coin a phrase 'it does what it says on the tin'. It's fulfilled exactly what I wanted it to. Re-using fabric and sheets.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSXf6qxx494/Tfr1o9ir6AI/AAAAAAAACFo/WZfOgKSPEco/s1600/quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KSXf6qxx494/Tfr1o9ir6AI/AAAAAAAACFo/WZfOgKSPEco/s320/quilt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>(An iron's required I think)</em></div><br />
<br />
Right, onto planning the next project!<br />
<br />
Enjoy the weekend!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-62581630982717166902011-06-15T00:50:00.000-07:002011-06-15T00:50:57.414-07:00Either end of the spectrumThanks for all your birthday wishes and comments regarding my finger, normal service is now resumed and it's now fully functional!<br />
<br />
As you know we went to London this weekend. We stayed just over Westminster Bridge in a hotel we're familiar with. Hubby had phoned ahead to say it was my birthday and un be known to us we were given an upgrade to a suite with a fantastic view of the London Eye and a slight view of Big Ben!!! We couldn't believe it. There was also a card with a bottle of wine waiting for us when we got in! Copies of Vogue and Homes and Gardens were laid out along with lots of other goodies.<br />
<br />
It was lovely to come back after 8 hours of walking and sit with a glass of wine watching the London Eye go round.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6EeokHVW74o/Tfhg5KMaioI/AAAAAAAACE0/T6GhwG5c_A0/s1600/VIEW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6EeokHVW74o/Tfhg5KMaioI/AAAAAAAACE0/T6GhwG5c_A0/s320/VIEW.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvEwPa1HoMg/Tfhg_wjZsyI/AAAAAAAACE4/gRtvAgAqPKQ/s1600/view1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AvEwPa1HoMg/Tfhg_wjZsyI/AAAAAAAACE4/gRtvAgAqPKQ/s320/view1.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The boys were in their element as they got goodie bags with pretend money which they could exchange for treats at the hotel.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1szLbN-y-4/TfhhaolgvMI/AAAAAAAACE8/FzFkbwT9Kxk/s1600/westminster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q1szLbN-y-4/TfhhaolgvMI/AAAAAAAACE8/FzFkbwT9Kxk/s320/westminster.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
We did pack an awful lot in and walked for miles. We did use the tube a few times but due to underground works and the Trooping of the Colour it was packed so tried to avoid it where possible.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NvK6hmbJL8o/Tfhh4VoBQPI/AAAAAAAACFA/OvtqZQpr_EM/s1600/penguin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NvK6hmbJL8o/Tfhh4VoBQPI/AAAAAAAACFA/OvtqZQpr_EM/s320/penguin.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qeOr3mobnA/TfhicL-1CMI/AAAAAAAACFE/hkazV6qzBMc/s1600/fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qeOr3mobnA/TfhicL-1CMI/AAAAAAAACFE/hkazV6qzBMc/s320/fish.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Lots of sightseeing, free museums aquarium, a touch and feel walk round Liberty's was lovely and full of opulence. I did spend some of my birthday money in there which I'll show you on another post.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KX1WIQevWIM/TfhikD3hw5I/AAAAAAAACFI/0Cw3OWW0oqc/s1600/fish2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KX1WIQevWIM/TfhikD3hw5I/AAAAAAAACFI/0Cw3OWW0oqc/s320/fish2.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQUqas3clik/TfhistQ2PYI/AAAAAAAACFM/ZeMYzqfJaSw/s1600/fish3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQUqas3clik/TfhistQ2PYI/AAAAAAAACFM/ZeMYzqfJaSw/s320/fish3.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DEUzNTsjToI/TfhizRfC0vI/AAAAAAAACFQ/FfchLOTaI1Y/s1600/fish1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DEUzNTsjToI/TfhizRfC0vI/AAAAAAAACFQ/FfchLOTaI1Y/s320/fish1.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The Queen was having an air display at 1pm on Saturday which we were fortunate enough to see in full glory - in fact, it was Toby's highlight of the weekend!<br />
<br />
Once emerging from a tube station later in the afternoon, I thought I saw what was a naked body on a bicycle - turned to hubby to say.....only to find more and more naked bodies riding bikes. This was full on stark naked - men, women, old and young all riding through the streets of London...........Some had protected their modesty but most were obviously very keen to let the wind whistle through! There were even men on roller blades gliding through letting everything dangle..... <br />
<br />
I believe they were trying to raise awareness of how vulnerable cyclists feel when riding through London. You wouldn't catch me doing it though!<br />
<br />
People were lining the streets in amazement, but you'd be surprised how many people were taking photo's......I won't be gracing you with any as I didn't take 1 single one.<br />
<br />
We did quickly dart into the National Gallery for culture of a different kind!<br />
<br />
All in all a great weekend.<br />
<br />
<em>PS - Sorry my photo's are a bit random - I either forgot to take photo's or it was just too busy to click away.</em>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-78535873843693171032011-06-10T00:37:00.000-07:002011-06-10T00:37:52.637-07:00Things to love and disasters......Loving the glorious flowers in the garden at the moment, despite the fact it's been so dry up to now, the flowers, in particular roses seem to be flourishing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vo4j80mE_fk/TfHHYbFnODI/AAAAAAAACEQ/vIYmPKlEX5E/s1600/flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vo4j80mE_fk/TfHHYbFnODI/AAAAAAAACEQ/vIYmPKlEX5E/s320/flowers.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bRZuv5C9wRA/TfHHfP-6Q4I/AAAAAAAACEU/JN2pAwb31_o/s1600/flowers1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bRZuv5C9wRA/TfHHfP-6Q4I/AAAAAAAACEU/JN2pAwb31_o/s320/flowers1.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yvKYbFLyELI/TfHHkIjlIGI/AAAAAAAACEY/EUl3WQd0Hw8/s1600/flowers2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yvKYbFLyELI/TfHHkIjlIGI/AAAAAAAACEY/EUl3WQd0Hw8/s320/flowers2.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-73cXGyobZOE/TfHHzwBt8FI/AAAAAAAACEg/KaqTon4m9h8/s1600/flowers4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-73cXGyobZOE/TfHHzwBt8FI/AAAAAAAACEg/KaqTon4m9h8/s320/flowers4.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rcwgwesIds/TfHH4uELA4I/AAAAAAAACEk/qcQwFV8UC6c/s1600/flowers5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rcwgwesIds/TfHH4uELA4I/AAAAAAAACEk/qcQwFV8UC6c/s320/flowers5.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Loving my vintage perpetual calender which I picked up for hardly any money. When you see something you've been wanting for long time and for such little money - you almost think it's too good to be true, but this one was perfect. We tested the date, month and day and they worked!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wT59LDjYnYU/TfHIJmGB7DI/AAAAAAAACEo/DUiIKDK58eg/s1600/calender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wT59LDjYnYU/TfHIJmGB7DI/AAAAAAAACEo/DUiIKDK58eg/s320/calender.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Loving the colour of these scales. It is a bit of a faff lining everything up first but I'll get used to them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zpHQ_Ym3vpQ/TfHIVZJwxnI/AAAAAAAACEs/Lzu7JAFY_rg/s1600/scales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zpHQ_Ym3vpQ/TfHIVZJwxnI/AAAAAAAACEs/Lzu7JAFY_rg/s320/scales.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Onto disasters - I saw a great recipe for Strawberry Fudge - and so so easy. Gave it a go - the smell was heavenly. As I was stirring it whilst boiling I noticed it was rather runny and wasn't getting to the right consistency. Had a look at the ingredient list again - I had put in too many strawberries and not enough evaporated milk (in theory 1 should have cancelled the other out as the liquid in the strawberries should have made up for the milk) but obviously the milk acts as a thickener (I assume).<br />
<br />
This is the result - it tastes wonderful, looks like sludge and requires scooping out.......there's always next time!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G0exR3ztDG4/TfHIkMhmPWI/AAAAAAAACEw/gcMU11x5Mms/s1600/fudge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G0exR3ztDG4/TfHIkMhmPWI/AAAAAAAACEw/gcMU11x5Mms/s320/fudge.jpg" t8="true" width="240" /></a></div><br />
My second disaster wasn't actually as bad as I had thought. All for exercise and de-stressing etc etc, I've been getting on my bike and doing a 30 minute cycle a few times a week. Yesterday was no different to any other day, but on my return home I noticed that my finger had turned purple and it was very painful. Thinking I might have cut the circulation off I started waving it around. No joy. I did cut the same finger with pair of scissors on Sunday so my immediate thoughts turned to gangrene (yes I worry in extremes!).<br />
<br />
I trotted off to Boots to ask the pharmacist what they thought. She immediately said I had burst a blood vessel in my finger. It will be painful but not life threatening (she read my mind). What a plank eh? <br />
<br />
I won't show you a picture of it as it's pretty yucky.<br />
<br />
Thank heavens we're off to London this weekend. It's my birthday on Monday so we thought it would be a nice break to spend it in London. I'll report back next week!<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend.Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-11705076492729474342011-06-03T00:03:00.000-07:002011-06-03T00:03:48.086-07:00Just Because.......Not one normally for fancy picnic baskets, I spotted a very pretty one in a magazine a while ago. The fabric inside looked very Libertyish but at £50 it wasn't something I really wanted to consider, so completely dismissed it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dpy-pBZdbJM/TeiGAT7raYI/AAAAAAAACD0/7CPvgRZq5_g/s1600/picnic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dpy-pBZdbJM/TeiGAT7raYI/AAAAAAAACD0/7CPvgRZq5_g/s320/picnic.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V8-tACEyh6Y/TeiGJNLW55I/AAAAAAAACD4/P39-aQ1t_8k/s1600/picnic1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V8-tACEyh6Y/TeiGJNLW55I/AAAAAAAACD4/P39-aQ1t_8k/s320/picnic1.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
A couple of weeks ago, I spied the same one (which actually comes from BHS) for half price and free delivery - well, the opportunity was too good to miss and it was calling out to me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOjdzR4wG6U/TeiGRgbB5bI/AAAAAAAACD8/A3k2To6k5KY/s1600/picnic2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eOjdzR4wG6U/TeiGRgbB5bI/AAAAAAAACD8/A3k2To6k5KY/s320/picnic2.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Being pink and floral was definitely attractive.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yQCpH0kjpL0/TeiGaFZELDI/AAAAAAAACEA/YcOhv4Xry8E/s1600/picnic3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yQCpH0kjpL0/TeiGaFZELDI/AAAAAAAACEA/YcOhv4Xry8E/s320/picnic3.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19vYw-IF1Vg/TeiGikNhbKI/AAAAAAAACEE/2O2meth0XlQ/s1600/picnic4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19vYw-IF1Vg/TeiGikNhbKI/AAAAAAAACEE/2O2meth0XlQ/s320/picnic4.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I'm anticipating putting it to good use this summer during all the warm weekends we'll have (she hopes). Only for 2 people though, so our usual picnic ware will have to be used for the boys, not that they will care though, as long as they're fed and watered.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jBZM9SOPxps/TeiGr-YV5ZI/AAAAAAAACEI/_csSskN9sac/s1600/picnic5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jBZM9SOPxps/TeiGr-YV5ZI/AAAAAAAACEI/_csSskN9sac/s320/picnic5.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8XeJH0EDpA/TeiGzcyPLpI/AAAAAAAACEM/Ct3ibr1kWk0/s1600/picnic6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8XeJH0EDpA/TeiGzcyPLpI/AAAAAAAACEM/Ct3ibr1kWk0/s320/picnic6.jpg" t8="true" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Long live the English summer!<br />
<br />
I hope everyone is enjoying the half term, I'll catch up next week with lots of other bits and bobs.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Have </span><span style="color: orange;">a </span><span style="color: lime;">good</span> <span style="color: red;">weekend!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">PS - Sorry if my comments have been far and few between - I've had real problems with Blogger in not letting me sign in and leave comments - bah humbug.....</span>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-44066344456037620162011-05-24T02:47:00.000-07:002011-05-24T02:48:37.608-07:00From crate to shelfMorning all - it seems ages since I posted, a week to be precise! Another half term looms, then it'll be count down next term to the summer holidays. It does seem like an extremely quick academic year don't you think?<br />
<br />
Anyway, back to the title of my post. For quite a while hubby had been complaining about how the shelf space throughout the whole house (slight exaggeration) was crammed full of needless stuff and how he didn't have enough space to put his books etc - yes I know, get the violins out!<br />
<br />
As there was space in the bedroom for a shelf we decided to hunt down something that would fit the bill. Unfortunately nothing did, but I had spotted in a magazine that someone had displayed their wares in an old crate which was hung on the wall.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QExjFi-lAIs/Tdt9oG-JsWI/AAAAAAAACDk/p-TpqT30WDg/s1600/shelf1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QExjFi-lAIs/Tdt9oG-JsWI/AAAAAAAACDk/p-TpqT30WDg/s400/shelf1.jpg" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As we had one lying in the shed, I thought it would be ideal. It was slightly too deep and a little overbearing due to the dark coloured wood on a pale wall. Some slight modification and a lick of bubble gum pink paint (very girly I know), a new shelf was born!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CHKpyPVsYE/Tdt9V1poF6I/AAAAAAAACDg/qBphpGdfuQ4/s1600/shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CHKpyPVsYE/Tdt9V1poF6I/AAAAAAAACDg/qBphpGdfuQ4/s400/shelf.jpg" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
I have temporarily taken over some of the space (I promise!) as you can see.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cGsBC-Djk8Y/Tdt91NoqhDI/AAAAAAAACDo/2LK5ru1n2JA/s1600/shelf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cGsBC-Djk8Y/Tdt91NoqhDI/AAAAAAAACDo/2LK5ru1n2JA/s400/shelf2.jpg" t8="true" width="300" /></a></div><br />
All in all a solution which didn't cost a penny!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJWLb7RCW5Y/Tdt9_9k1A1I/AAAAAAAACDs/xJ1dlnSgneA/s1600/shelf3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJWLb7RCW5Y/Tdt9_9k1A1I/AAAAAAAACDs/xJ1dlnSgneA/s400/shelf3.jpg" t8="true" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Have a good day!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3099368022199434823.post-9422324495534926632011-05-17T03:05:00.000-07:002011-05-17T03:05:06.174-07:00Happy Dayswere celebrating hubby's birthday this weekend and taking a little jaunt to a cider farm - hubby's idea of heaven!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-77_WNNLyT6Q/TdJFNdtcUcI/AAAAAAAACC8/ZlQvH99vO7U/s1600/cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-77_WNNLyT6Q/TdJFNdtcUcI/AAAAAAAACC8/ZlQvH99vO7U/s320/cards.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
getting a heart racing moment spying lots of charity shops on the way to the cider farm<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AV4wFGgdzYo/TdJFaHyeb9I/AAAAAAAACDA/tdeZE3JY6L0/s1600/CHARITY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AV4wFGgdzYo/TdJFaHyeb9I/AAAAAAAACDA/tdeZE3JY6L0/s320/CHARITY.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
walking in and actually feeling mighty pleased at the 'rich' pickings on offer<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPSK5XlBLwE/TdJHx4Z3iZI/AAAAAAAACDU/5CgLspCH-uw/s1600/charity2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZPSK5XlBLwE/TdJHx4Z3iZI/AAAAAAAACDU/5CgLspCH-uw/s320/charity2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLaGYTSSQlQ/TdJFh4rUfqI/AAAAAAAACDE/XsXlhBDN2vU/s1600/charity1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLaGYTSSQlQ/TdJFh4rUfqI/AAAAAAAACDE/XsXlhBDN2vU/s320/charity1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
and even more heart skiperty skip moments when I spied beautiful coloured cutlery at only 15p a piece<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--qOkVwsHmGw/TdJHpS6WfwI/AAAAAAAACDQ/Q4HJ1pyxLhY/s1600/cutlery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--qOkVwsHmGw/TdJHpS6WfwI/AAAAAAAACDQ/Q4HJ1pyxLhY/s320/cutlery.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
eating a freshly made pear, chocolate and hazelnut cake<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qtdjehGZok0/TdJFI7J-YJI/AAAAAAAACC4/AUnblbJOS2U/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qtdjehGZok0/TdJFI7J-YJI/AAAAAAAACC4/AUnblbJOS2U/s320/cake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
finishing off a couple of WIP's <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VoOtH_cc5GA/TdJFuK3osLI/AAAAAAAACDI/k7URQQ1YuW4/s1600/CUSHION.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VoOtH_cc5GA/TdJFuK3osLI/AAAAAAAACDI/k7URQQ1YuW4/s320/CUSHION.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>(please double click to enlarge)</em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wa89uinFsg/TdJF94OIOUI/AAAAAAAACDM/bj2KPMYkUMc/s1600/mat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wa89uinFsg/TdJF94OIOUI/AAAAAAAACDM/bj2KPMYkUMc/s320/mat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Enjoy the day!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12428734866238643758noreply@blogger.com20