Jumbleberries

Meet Me On Monday :: 9/12

2012-02-27T14:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!

The Jumbleberry gang had a a fun-filled week away last week, hence dropping off the blogging radar for a few days. Am back though having had a a great time and with lots of cool plans for the week ahead - this is what I'm up to ....

This week I'm:
Visiting :: the New Forest with my beautiful family.
Wearing :: Wellies for lots of walks through the woods.

Watching :: my two little monsters make a den.

Listening to :: Woodpeckers hammering on the trees surrounding our holiday lodge, boy are those little guys noisey!
Celebrating :: Superhero's 7th birthday.
Growing :: Winter Roses. Aren't they a gorgeous colour?

Cooking :: Pancakes, of course. We went traditional and served ours with with lemon and sugar. How did you have yours?
Winning :: My mate Famfa's PIF Giveaway. Very excited to find out what I've won!
Making :: a selection of pretty yo-yo corsages for the shop, ready for Mother's Day. I'll be adding more gifts ideas this week, so hope you can pop by and take a look.

So what did you get up to over the weekend and what have you got planned for the week ahead? Add your name to Mr Linky below to share what's influencing your creativity this week.

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday :: 7/12

2012-02-27T14:07:00.000-08:00

Ooops, thought I had published this a fortnight ago - oh well, better later than never ....

Well, it was another cold one here this weekend, but we had fun none-the-less. What did you get up to & what have you got planned for the week ahead?

This week I'm:

Making :: these yummy chocolate truffles as a Valentines treat for Mr A (and putting them in a cute jar, so that I could join in with Quirky Boots' Jam Jar Collective).

Growing :: daffodils. They are really starting to come up now. In the mean time I've been enjoying some cut ones on my windowsill.

Eating :: hot buttered crumpets, the perfect comfort food, delish!

Loving :: the snow on the trees on Sunday morning when the sky was blue. It looked like they had all been decorated with lace, magical.

Visiting :: the Vintage and Handmade Fair in Market Harborough on Saturday afternoon and coming home with this lovely green glass trinket box, to add to my collection of Art Deco Dressing Table Glass.

Wearing :: a flower corsage in my hair to add a splash of colour on a cold, grey day.
Listening to :: everything. Me and my best-friends had a fun-filled kitchen-disco Saturday night / Sunday morning and we listened to everything including Adele, Paloma Faith, Noisettes, Caro Emerald, Amy Winehouse and even a bit of Tom Jones!
Watching :: Star Wars in 3D with Superhero later in the week. I am a secret sci-fi fan and I can't wait.
Joining :: the Much Ado About Paper's fab give away in celebration of 100 followers. Have you joined too? What a great stash of pressie's for the winner.

So what are you up to this week?

Have fun. xx

Favourite Thing On A Friday :: Owls

2012-02-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

I'm joining in with the lovely Emma's Favourite Thing On A Friday series of posts over at Mimi & Tilly today, as it appears that I have developed a slight obsession with Owls this week.

Having made an owl inspired scissors case as my Monthly Make for February, I've then gone on to complete a Little Owl Canvas and a made a couple of Little Owl brooches, all destined for my shop.

Cute aren't they?

And take a look at these other Owl inspired items I have found on Folksy this week:

Pair of Owls Sitting on a Log by Wild Wood Whimsies

Two Owls Canvas by With Hugs and Kisses

2012 Diary : Owls in woolly jumpers by mypipsqueak

Three Wise Little Owls by Mammakaz

Do you love Owls too? What's your favourite thing ona Friday?

Have fun. xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday

2012-02-08T05:20:00.000-08:00

Just a quick WOYWW post from me today I'm afraid, as I've got lots of bits and pieces to get finished off. I managed to slip over in the snow yesterday and twist my arm, so making has been a tad slow and a I'm a bit behind with several projects!

It's Mr A's nephew's birthday on Friday so I'm making him a moustache pencil topper and bookmark to pop in to his card. I've also got some owl brooches to finish off, a couple of loopy corsages (which I thought would be good fun for Valentines Day) and a couple of hair-slide ribbons I'm making ready for forthcoming birthday parties. Right, I had better get started I suppose.

What's on your workdesk today?

Have fun. xx

Monthly Make 2012 :: February

2012-02-07T03:46:00.000-08:00

One of my goals for this year is to join in with the Monthly Make 2012 challenge, as organised by the lovely Felt Fairy. I didn't manage to complete the challenge last year for one reason or another, so I am determined to make something new and specific (and more importantly something for myself, rather than a gift for a friend or an item I can put in the shop) for evey month of 2012.

In January I made myself a pin book, which I embellished with little flower shaped buttons. So for February I decided to make myself an Owl shaped Scissors Case:

I recently came across a pdf pattern of a similar design and it reminded me of a leather scissors case which my Grandmother had when I was a little girl - I loved the way the handles of the scissors looked like a pair of glasses, making it look a very wise Owl indeed.

So I decided to have a go at making my own version, based on my own Little Owl design:

Cute isn't it? It now has pride of place in my sewing box.

Are you joining in with the Monthly Make 2012 challenge?

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday :: 6/12

2012-02-06T03:45:00.000-08:00

Well, having got all excited last week thinking that Spring was just around the corner, mother nature treated us to a blanket of snow over the weekend, just to remind us that Winter is most definitely here for a bit longer. Oh well, I didn't really mind as I didn't have anywhere specific to go, so it was a good opportunity to stay curled up in the warm, drinking hot chocolate!

Did it snow where you were this weekend - did you venture out?

This week I'm:

Making :: more canvas pictures. Having now had an opportunity to finish my Little Owl Canvas and being happy with the end result, I'm going to be working on some other designs this week
Cooking :: we normal treat ourselves to a round of toast at our local coffee shop on a Sunday after the kids swimming lessons, but the snow put us off this week, so we stayed in and made blueberry pancakes instead - yum

Loving :: playing retro board games. We've been playing Master Mind and Frustration this week - remember those?

Watching :: the kids help each other at a charity bingo night we went to on Friday evening - very sweet

Drinking :: red wine (again), well it seemed like a red wine sort of weekend!
Dreaming of :: eating fresh seafood in Cornwall on a warm summer's day (I've been watching Hugh's Three Hungry Boys) ....
Wearing :: Wellies and thick socks - enough said

So what have you been up to this weekend? What have you got planned for the week ahead? What's influencing your creativity? Add your name to Mr Linky below to share.

Have fun. xx

Show Off Saturday :: My Superhero

2012-02-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I know that it is Sunday, but the trophy was actually won yesterday, so I think that still counts, right?

I'm joining in with the lovely Deanne's new series of posts this week and showing off my little Superhero who won the Squirrel Cup at Beavers yesterday for always joining in and trying his hardest. Look how pleased he is with himself:

What's got you beaming with pride this week?

I'll be back tomorrow with Meet Me On Monday. Want to join in? Click here to find out how.

Have fun. xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday :: Little Owl Canvas

2012-02-01T04:56:00.000-08:00

On my list of things to make this week is a drawstring bag I've been asked to make for a friends little girl.

So this morning out came the material ready for measuring, cutting and sewing etc. Unfortunately - as so often happens to me - whilst working on one project, another idea pops into mind and I just HAVE to make it there and then....

You see the last time I used these materials, I made this Little Owl for my niece. I loved this project as I was really pleased with the design which I then went on to translate into a paper collage picture.

So, I had the bright idea that the design would make a cute fabric collage on canvas. Away went the bag pattern and out came the canvas and paint and this is what my workdesk looks like this morning:

As you can see I've almost cut out all the pieces, I now just need to sew it all together and glue it to the canvas. I think it will look really cute though when it's finished - what do you think?

Do you get easily distracted with new ideas?

Pop across to Julia's blog to take a peek at a whole world of creative workdesks.

Have fun. xx

PS - if you are kind enough to leave me a comment, please don't be offended if I don't comment in return. I do always check out your WOYWW post, but for some strange reason I am not always able to save any comments I write.

Tuesday Crafternoon :: Orchid Wreath

2012-02-01T04:29:00.000-08:00

I didn't manage to finish off my Spring wreaths last week for one reason or another, so I put them aside to work on as my Tuesday Crafternoon project.

I had in mind that I would make two Spring wreaths - a white wreath with little Cherry Blossoms on it and a pink wreath with pale lemon Primroses on it. The Cherry Blossom version I think works really well, however when I came to assemble the Primrose version, it didn't look as pretty and I had envisaged.

So not one to give up and definitely not one to waste anything, I decided that perhaps white Orchids with a little sequin detail would be just the ticket:

I just need to get some nice white ribbon to finish it off but I'm very pleased with it. I thought it would look very pretty hanging behind a beautiful Bride and her handsome Groom at a Summer Wedding Breakfast. What do you think?

The little Primrose shapes didn't go to waste either, I turned them into brooches and are available in my new Folksy Shop.

Quite a productive crafternoon in the end.

What have you been making this week?

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday :: 5/12

2012-01-30T04:30:00.000-08:00

Monday again already - gosh time flies when you are having fun, doesn't it? I had a productive time last week and a fun-filled weekend though, so all is good. I've got plenty planned for this week too:

This week I'm:

Making :: a personalised drawstring bag for a little ballerina - one of the ballet mums has commissioned me to make one for her 4 year old daughter. Look at these pretty materials I'm going to use:

Meeting :: the lovely Deanne at her monthly crop on Saturday - I had such a great time, lots of crafting, a delicious lunch and a right old giggle, just what I needed.
Eating :: Bananas and custard - oh my, I had forgotten just how good it is!
Visiting :: Retrospective - a new retro and vintage clothes shop opening in Harborough today. Not sure what it will be like, but I have high hopes.
Cooking :: Cake-pops. It's Superhero's birthday next month, so I'm having a go at making some cake-pops to add to the party bags.
Watching :: Winners & Losers, a new drama on ITV2 - a great way to get my aussie fix.
Joining :: the Pay It Forward Giveaway that my good mate Famfa is hosting over at Busy Butterfingers.

and finally ....

Opening :: my new Jumbleberries Folksy Shop!
I've only gone and done it (I've been talking about it, like, forever!!). There is only a handful of items in there so far but I hope to fill it up with lots more handmade loveliness over the next couple of weeks, so hope you can pop by and take a peek. I am beyond exctited!

So what about you - what did you do over the weekend and what have you got planned for the week ahead?

Have fun xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday :: Hearts & Flowers

2012-01-24T22:55:00.000-08:00

My work-desk looks quite productive this week I think (even if I do say so myself, tee hee):

I've been working at the kitchen table over the last couple of days, as the light is better there, especially when it's so grey and miserable outside. I've been designing and making some Spring & Valentine's inspired felt projects. You can see in the photo some heart shapes ready be made into a selection of brooches and a couple of Spring wreaths (one with cherry blossoms on it and one with primroses), which I hope to be able to finish off today.

What have you got planned for today?

Check out Stamping Ground for more creative workdesks.

Have fun. xx

Oh .... by the way, thank you to everyone that is kind enough to leave me a comment - you really do make my day. I do always pop by and take a peek at what you are up to too, but unfortunately I don't seem to be able to leave a comment, unless you have your comments form set-up in the same way as mine. Does anyone know why that might be??

Tuesday Crafternoon :: Heart Brooches

2012-01-24T13:33:00.000-08:00

With St V's Day just around the corner, I've been thinking about some heart shaped projects.

I made these cute little brooches this afternoon - what do you think?

Did you make anything today?

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday :: 4/12

2012-01-23T05:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday!

How was your weekend - hope you had a good one? What did you get up to and what do you have planned for the week ahead?

Me? Well this week I'm:

Making :: a Cherry Blossom inspired brooch. Following on from my primrose design last week, I thought the shape would work well for a cherry blossom - what do you think?

Cooking :: Not much. It was Mr A's birthday at the weekend so we all went out for a family lunch yesterday, which was a nice treat.
Wearing :: a new hair cut. I've got a funky fringe now, get me!
Meeting :: the Crafty-Girls on Saturday for the monthly crop, really looking forward to it.
Loving :: the fact that the daffodil and snowdrop bulbs are starting to come up.
Watching :: Sherlock Holmes - again! I'm still trying to work out the twist... Did you watch it, what's your idea?

What's influencing you this week? Do share.

Have fun xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday :: Primroses

2012-01-18T03:33:00.000-08:00

It is quite grey and miserable today, but yesterday was beautifully sunny and it really felt like Spring wasn't that far away. With this in mind I thought I would quite like to design and make some primrose felt shapes that I could use for future Spring themed projects. So this is what my work-desk looks like this morning:

The shapes still need a little work, but I think they are pretty much there - and anyway, I am having fun working it out.

What's on your workdesk this morning? Pop over to Stamping Ground to see what everyone else is up to.

Have fun. xx

Favourite Things :: Peacocks

2012-01-18T03:31:00.000-08:00

Last summer, when planning to redecorate my hallway, I treated myself to a beautiful print of a peacock and ever since then I've found that I have been drawn to peacock inspired items.

I recently found this funky peacock-feather ring:

which I have been wearing along with this peacock coloured nail-polish:

Even the kids have been inspired - we made these Mr Maker pictures at the weekend:

by Superhero aged 6

by Princess aged 4

So last week I made myself this cute little peacock feather inspired brooch:

Its been an idea that I have had in mind for a little while, so I am really pleased with how it turned out. I think it looks quite art deco. I've been wearing it with my black coat and teal coloured scarf.

Do you like peacock coloured items too?

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday :: 3/12

2012-01-16T06:29:00.000-08:00

Apologies for the lack of photographs - having some technical difficulties today!!

Happy Monday! Hope you had a great weekend? It's a really chilly day here today, but it's beautifully sunny - what's the weather like where you are?

I'm having a bit of a de-clutter at the moment, which as a terrible hoarder is quite difficult for me! However, we are changing the use of some of our rooms (putting the study downstairs, switching the kids rooms, etc) which should allow me to have a dedicated crafting space, up in the top of the house - yipee. So I'm being brave and having a good sort through and re-homing items where I can or donating to our local charity shops. It feels like a good job to be doing at the being of the year truth be told.

What did you get up to over the weekend - do anything creative? What do you have planned for the week ahead?

This week I'm:

Making :: a chevron inspired brooch - chevrons seem to be everywhere at the moment, don't they?
Cooking :: fruit & chocolate fondue with the children. Not strictly cooking I know, but it contained two of the major food groups - fruit & chocolate - so I think that's allowed
Loving :: my new peacock coloured nail-polish - one of my goals for 2012 is to be a bit braver with colour!!
Wearing :: a new dress - another goal for this year is to hang-up my jeans (which I seem to wear everyday) and wear more dresses. This one has a pretty-pretty blue & green flower print
Watching :: New Girl on channel 4. Any programme where the leading lady sings (badly) at any opportunity is alright with me

Eating :: more vegetarian dishes - Mr A & I are trying to always have a meat-free Monday. Mushroom and rosemary risotto this evening ...
Dreaming of :: Spring - it can't be that far away, can it?

What's influening you this week? Do share.

Have fun xx

Meet Me On Monday - 2/12

2012-01-08T23:29:00.000-08:00

Hello - how are you this Monday morning? Hope you had a good weekend. The children have gone back to school today after the Christmas holidays and Mr A is back at work, so we spent the weekend doing lots of family stuff. I therefore didn't do that much crafting, so hope to catch up on some projects during the coming week.

This week I'm:
Watching :: the kids and Mr A ice-skating on a beautiful sunny day, as a last holiday treat. Great fun.

Cooking :: Pizza Pinwheels with my little Princess and they were totally yum :)

Visiting :: Sywell Aerodrome, a fantastic local art deco building

Wearing :: my 30s style cloche hat (unfortunately not an original) in an attempt to keep my big hair relatively under control on these damp mornings
Listening to :: the Swing Museum, another Christmas pressie from Mr A
Eating :: cake, cake and more cake - one week into the new year and we have already celebrated 3 family birthdays!
Drinking :: fresh peppermint tea - after all the excess of Christmas I'm hoping this will do me some good
Learning :: to juggle. It's one of the challenges I've set myself for this year as I thought it would make the kids laugh, but it is really hard - can you do it?
Making :: a peacock inspired brooch. I'll be back later to show you the end result.

So what have you got planned for the week ahead? What is influencing you? Add your name to Mr Linky below to share.

Have fun. xx

Sunday Baking :: Pizza Pinwheels

2012-01-08T06:19:00.000-08:00

Whilst Mr A and Superhero went to play golf this morning, Princess & I did some Sunday Baking and made these totally yummy Pizza Pinwheels for lunch:

They are easy-peasy to make (perfect for Princess as she is only 4), cook in next to no time and are delicious.

Here's how we made them:
:: we used a sheet of pre-rolled puff pastry, which we covered with a generous dollop of tomato puree and seasoned with some black pepper and oregano
:: we then sprinkled over some strips of ham and quite a lot of grated cheese
:: we rolled the whole lot up length-ways and cut into 12 pieces and baked in the oven at 200oC for around 15 mins
:: we ate them warm with salad leaves - scrummy

Did you do any baking today?

Have fun. xx

Favourite Thing On A Friday - Buttons

2012-01-06T15:05:00.000-08:00

Well, it wasn't planned, but it appears that there was a theme to this week's series of posts, did you notice? Yes, apparently (with out me even realising it) I have become a little obsessed with buttons of late.

And even though I haven't been crafting for that long I have already managed to gather quite a collection....

I like the way they look altogether in the jar, the mix of colours, they remind me of a jar of sweets. And I like to tip them into a bowl and run my fingers through them, I find this quite relaxing. Do you do this too, tell me you do and that it isn't just me being strange, tee hee.

Yes, buttons are definitely my Favourite Thing on a Friday.

So with this mind, I thought it would be fun to find some lovely button themed items on Folksy this week - look at what I found:

Summer Yellow Button Cascade Keyring by D & K Designs

Purple and Green Button Brooch by Realicoul Handmade Funky Button Jewellery

Cute as a Button Card by Egg and Soldiers

What's your favourite thing on a Friday? Check out the lovely Emma's blog for more favourite things.

Have fun. xx

Monthly Make Challenge - January 2012

2012-01-06T01:53:00.000-08:00

Last year I joined the Monthly Make Challenge organised by the lovely Felt Fairy and pledge to make at least one item every month. Although I started off reasonably well, I didn't manage to keep up with making items through the Autumn and during the run-up to Christmas unfortunately....

However, I am determined to be much more productive this year so have joined the challenge for 2012 and I am pleased to say that I have already completed my make for January - this little pin-book:

I had seen something similar some time ago and then looking through my button collection yesterday I realised that I had actually got quite a collection of flower shaped buttons, which would be perfect, so set to work. I'm very pleased with how it turned out - practical and pretty, what more could I ask for?

Have you joined the A Make A Month 2012 Challenge too?

Have fun. xx

Thrifty Thursday - Vintage Buttons

2012-01-05T04:33:00.000-08:00

Look at these lovely vintage buttons I managed to pick up for 50p at our weekly antiques market:

Cute aren't they? I'm going to use two to make myself a couple of rings but I am still deciding what to do with the rest - any ideas?

Have you found anything interesting at your local charity shop recently?

Have fun. xx

Nice Pins!

2012-01-05T04:31:00.000-08:00

Well, I spent a happy couple of hours yesterday morning making some fabric covered pins with my new Button Factory kit. It was so much fun (and really easy to use). I got really carried away, so this is only a small selection of the pins I made:

Aren't they cute? I'm off to meet my friend for a coffee in a minute so am going to pin a couple to my coat.

Have you made any fabric covered pins?

Have fun. xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday?

2012-01-03T22:43:00.000-08:00

I've got a couple of hours to myself this morning whilst Mr A takes the Superhero and Princess to the cinema, so this is what is on my workdesk today:

Mr A gave me this Button Factory kit for Xmas and I've been itching to have a play, so this is what I'll be spending my morning doing - I'll let you know how I get on.

What's on your workdesk this Wednesday? Looking for some inspiration then check out Stamping Ground's very creative followers and have a peek around all their workdesks.

Have fun. xx

Meet Me In 2012

2012-01-02T10:22:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

It would be fair to say that I wasn't really feeling it creatively towards the latter part of 2011, hence my little holiday from blog-land. But having had a nice relaxing time over Christmas with my beautiful family and having given myself a little talking to, I am embracing the fact that the new year brings a new start. I've therefore made some plans for the year ahead, set myself some goals and am very excited about how it might all turn out. So, with this in mind, I'm very pleased to be here with the first MMOM post of 2012, and very eager to hear what you've got planned for the weeks ahead.

As for me, well this week I'm:
Making: fabric covered buttons with my new kit Mr A gave me for Xmas

Growing: a Christmas cactus - it flowered for the first time last week, isn't it pretty?

Cooking: homemade fudge with the kids, totally yum
Drinking: a glass of fizz (or two) to welcome in 2012
Wearing: baggy clothes after eating far too much over Christmas, tee hee
Listening to: Caro Emerald and Imelda May after seeing them both on Jools Holland's Hootenanny
Watching: the new series of Sherlock - love Benedict Cumberbatch
Reading: The Help by Kathryn Stockett- have you read it?
Planning: all the things I hope to achieve in the year ahead - and I've got some big plans too, will share some later.

So, what have you been up to? What have you got planned for 2012? What is influencing your creativity? Add your name to Mr Linky below to join in.

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday and Happy Halloween! Hope you have been having a Spook-tacular time? We have really been getting into the spirit of things here at Jumbleberries HQ (did you see what I did there?) ....

This week I am:
Making: Halloween decorations with my two little monsters

Halloween Papercraft Bunting (by me)

A Pumpkin Decoration (by Princess)

Partying with: My beautiful extended family. I'm very lucky that we all like hanging out together.
Listening & dancing to: The Monster Mash. We had a mini disco in the kitchen.
Cooking: Halloween Stew (also known as a very spicy Chilli and Rice). That should keep the vampires away.
Wearing: a Witches hat and cape and black & purple stripped tights (which I love so much I might wear them on the school run tomorrow).
Loving: Harry McFly Judd. Did you see him as the Prince of Darkness on Strictly on Saturday night? How cool is that boy?

So what have you been up to and what do you have planned for the week ahead?

Wishing you few tricks but many, many treats. xx

Meet Me on Monday - 12

2011-10-24T05:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday Everyone!

Can you believe it is that time of the week again already? So how was your weekend? What did you get up to? What have you got planned for the week ahead?

Me? Well, this week I'm:

Watching: Strictly Come Dancing. Totally gutted that Rory is out and completely bewildered that Nancy is still in! I can only assume that everyone loves Anton??
Listening to: Caro Emerald - did you see her perform on Strictly last night. A-maz-ing, as Craig would say.
Loving: The news that Paloma Faith has launched a range of 40's inspired undies for La Senza. Too cute.
Learning: Whether as a red head I can carry off red lips and nails (this is my attempt at vintage glamour). Will decide whether I like it or not before I share ;).
Wearing: My new peacock ring. The girls and I are hitting the town for a few glasses of pop later in the week, so I treated myself to a new little item to wear.
Drinking: Lashings of (grown-up) Ginger Beer - well it seems like a good Autumn drink.
Making: Some Halloween inspired decorations ready for our family party at the weekend. Will show and tell once they are all finished.
Cooking: Slug Sausages in Slime, Mouldy Mash and Rotten Baked Beans, followed by Bugs in Jelly! It is what the kids have asked for.....

So what's influencing you this week? Do share, I love to read what everyone is up to.

Have fun. xx

Favourite Thing On Friday - Autumn

2011-10-21T12:45:00.000-07:00

Well it's that time of the week again when the lovely (and very funny) Emma over at Mimi & Tilly asks what's been our favourite thing this week.

Well it might be a little obvious, but for me this week I am totally loving Autumn. This has always been my favourite time of the year, but this year (perhaps due to the good weather we have been having) everything seems just that little bit more beautiful. The colours of the trees seems that little bit more vivid. The new emerging forms of the leafless branches seem just a little bit more striking. And the crunch of the fallen leaves underfoot seem just a little bit more, well, crunchy - don't you agree? Loads of inspiration for crafty projects I think.

And the kids have been having a great time too. We've all spent as much time as we could enjoying 'outside' this week either at the farm or the park (although to be fair it has been a tad cold!). And the fact that it hasn't actually rained this half term is a bonus. Plus they have never collected as many conkers, acorns and other interesting autumnal bits & bobs. And Halloween is just around the corner, well, it's just toooo exciting for words!

So in celebration of all things Autumnal, here is a selection of some of my favourite Autumn themed items found on Folksy this week:

Autumn Felted Bowl by That Fuzzy Feeling

Autumn Screen Print by Red Berry Hill

Celtic Autumn Necklace by AMITOLA JEWELLERY

Autumn Flower Corsage by Belle & the Bean

Autumn Leaf Coasters by by sally

So what has been your favourite thing this week?

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday - 11

2011-10-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

Wow, I've just realised that Monday is nearly over and I'm only just posting my MMOM update, really sorry about that.

It's been the first day of the Autumn half term holidays today and the kids and I have had a p-j day (although I did insist we all got dressed when we went to the supermarket!). I guess that should have meant that I've had lots of time for blogging, but somehow the day has just got away from me a bit. However, I intend to be a bit more disciplined with the rest of the week.

This week I'm

Wearing: my new pin that I picked up at our weekly Antiques Market. It's a brooch, made from felt, from the 30s - it had my name written all over it.

Making: a new tunic mini dress, using this lovely Amy Butler pattern bought at CallyCo in Cambridge yesterday. Off to buy the material tomorrow - very excited!

Visiting: Cambridge on a perfect Autumn afternoon, for a play in the park.

Eating: Seafood Linguine at Carluccio's
Listening to: Magic Numbers. Oh how I wish I could sing like that ....
Cooking: French Toast - the perfect p-j day breakfast!
Watching: Scooby Doo - those pesky kids
Loving: Spirograph (yes, Spirograph, remember that?) I picked it up for 20p at an Autumn Fair I went to on Saturday afternoon. I had totally forgotten how addictive it is - love it!

So how was your weekend? What do you have planned for the week ahead? What is influencing you at the moment? Do join in - the more the merrier!

Have fun. xx

Autumn Colour & What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday

2011-10-11T23:00:00.000-07:00

I've felt like I've had a black cloud following me around for the last week for one reason or another, so I have spent Monday and Tuesday of this week trying to be good to myself:

I've spent some time reading

I've spent some time writing

I've spent some time baking (and of course eating) some very yummy chocolate brownies

and after that I started to feel the cloud lift and the Autumn colour shine through and I was ready to start making again. This included:

an Autumn Leaves Brooch (above)

and this little Apple Brooch

So today - now that I have my creative head back on - I'm going to make a start on some of my handmade Christmas pressies. On the agenda for this morning are a couple of crayon rolls and 4 bags using some (recently purchased) denim (oh yeah, I spent some time doing some retail therapy too) and some pretty and funky tea-towels.

What's on your work-desk this morning? In need of inspiration? Take a peek at the list of talented peeps organised by Stamping Ground. Be warned though, visiting all those wonderful blogs is terribly addictive!

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday - 10

2011-10-10T04:26:00.000-07:00

Morning!

How are you? How was your weekend?

I've been feeling a bit like Perkin Flump stuck under that cloud for the few days and this coupled with the fact that our crafting group had to be cancelled at the last minute on Saturday has meant (I am sorry to say) that there has been a real lack of creativity happening around these parts of late.

However, I am determined to relocate my mojo and have started by baking myself a batch of chocolate brownies this morning (they are baking in the oven as I type) coz I don't know about you but for me life always seems a little sweeter after consuming vast amount of cake!

This week I am also:
Purchasing: This green glass dressing table box. I've had my eye on it for the last 3 months and this week the dealer finally gave into my offer. I'm rather pleased with myself.

Cooking: comfort food. Loaded Macaroni Cheese. I am now the size of a small house, but feel slightly less sorry for myself.
Wearing: My knee high boots. Read an article in the fashion pages of the weekend glossy that they are very on trend this season - get me!
Watching: The kids perform in their Harvest Assembly - I'm one proud mama.
Reading: Before I Go To Sleep by SJ Watson. I'm reading it for book club and have only just started, but it is really good - have you read it?
Visiting: A Most Marvellous Place to Shop tomorrow with mum as recommended by the lovely Quirky Boots. I'll let you know if I come back with any goodies.
Loving: This wonderful necklace, given to me by my Grandmother (she was having a de-clutter). Not sure how old it is but it looks a bit Art Deco to me. Need a LBD and somewhere fancy to go now, so that I can show it off.

Eating: Cake, cake and more cake.
Drinking: Tea, tea and more tea.
Writing: Lists. I know that this isn't actually the same as doing, but I'm hoping that it will give me some focus for when I finally manage to coax myself into some sort of action!
Remembering: To look at the sky every now and again, coz there is always a different perspective.

Gosh, I'm feeling better already.

So, what about you - what is influencing you this week, where are you taking inspiration from? Add yourself to the link below and I'll be sure to pop by to say hi.

Have fun. xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday

2011-10-05T01:27:00.000-07:00

Loads ....

I've mentioned lots of projects on my making list on my Meet Me On Monday posts, but have been rubbish about actually finishing any of them off. So today is the day. Hopefully I'll be back later to show you:

- a surprise pressie for an 8 year old (it was his party yesterday but I didn't manage to get it finished in time!)
- an autumn leaves brooch (this one has been knocking around for a couple of weeks now, if I don't get it finished it'll be Christmas)
- an art deco inspired project (have I mentioned that I love art deco?)
- and a couple of secret projects, which I hope to share with you later in the week

So that should be enough to keep me out of trouble for the day. First though I'm off to take a peek at the workdesks of all the other talented followers of the lovely Stamping Ground.

Whats on your workdesk this Wednesday morning?

Have fun. xx

Meet Me On Monday - 9

2011-10-02T23:14:00.000-07:00

Morning - how are you doing today? How was your weekend - good I hope. The weather here has been amazing, soooo lovely, that we've all had a really chilled out weekend. Not a lot of crafting going on I have to admit, but plenty of eating, drinking and sitting in the sunshine, so all is good.

This week I'm
Making: a pressie for a special 8 year old - can't tell you more until we have attended the party, tee hee.
Wearing: my bunting necklace and receiving lots of compliments, so very chuffed with myself

Listening to: the Noisettes - you can't beat a bit of funky disco on a sunny afternoon
Watching: Star Trek (I'm a secret sci-fi fan, but that is another story!!)
Meeting: my besties for a mojito-fizz, or two - lots of giggling, singing and dancing was had!
Visiting: the Kibworth Vintage and Handmade Fair, it was really good. They have another one coming up at the beginning of December, will definitely be back to pick up some more goodies.
Eating: BBQ'd Sweet Chilli Mackerel, made by Mr A - delicious
Loving: walking the dog on a sunny autumn afternoon
Remembering: that Christmas is not that far off so I had better crack on with my homemade gifts

What are you up to this week?

Have fun xx

Want to join in with MMOM? You'll find all the details here.

Favourite Thing on a Friday - Art Deco Design

2011-09-30T05:40:00.000-07:00

With the current love affair for all things vintage, the glamour of the 1940s and 50s is having somewhat of a revival. However, for me, you can't beat the the stylish elegance of the 1920s & 30s. Yes, without a doubt definitely my Favourite Thing on a Friday is Art Deco Design.

Originally known as Moderne style, art deco influenced everything from fashion, interior design and of course architecture. One of my favourite architects from the period has to be Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Living in pretty Market Harborugh (UK) I am lucky enough to be only about 30 minutes away from one of his most famous projects 78 Derngate, which he re-modelled in his iconic Modernist style in 1917. It is a great place to visit if you ever get a chance - and they even have a lovely tea-room too.

ITV3 are currently re-running The House of Elliott, which I am watching most days, so I totally have the 1930s on the brain at the moment! So with thoughts of all things Art Deco take a look at these beautiful items I have found on Folksy:

Art Deco Stained Glass Panel by Diomo Glass

Sterling silver etched art deco stud earrings by Lauren Hutchinson Contemporary Jewellery Design

Art Deco Magnolia flower Leather iPhone Sleeve by Patina Blue

Noritake Green Art Deco Teacup Soy Candle by Crafty Green Monkeys

Deco Neckpiece by Kirstin Moore Contemporary Jewellery

These items are definitely on my wish-list for Xmas - hope you are taking note Mr A?

What is your Favourite Thing on a Friday? Join in and share with the lovely Mimi & Tilly.

Have a nice weekend. xx

PS - hope you can pop back after the weekend to join in with Meet Me on Monday?

Meet Me On Monday - 8

2011-09-25T22:55:00.000-07:00

Morning!

Mr A, packed off to work - check.
Children, packed off to school - check.
Coffee poured - check.
Toast buttered - check.

Right, I'm all ready.

So how are you? Whats new with you? What did you get up to over the weekend - hope you had a good one? What do you have planned for the week ahead?

Me? Well, this week I'm:

Painting with my Princess

Making tea-cosies for the children to wear on the heads to school (see more here). They turned out rather well, didn't they? Even if I do say so myself, tee hee.

Cooking pea and ham soup, a perfect Autumn lunch
Growing a jade plant, which I have had for over 30 years. I re-potted it this week as it had seriously out-grown it's previous terracotta pot

Eating chorizo and homegrown tomato fritatta - yum.
Visiting my cousin and her new baby

Designing an art deco inspired project - pop back later in the week to see how I'm getting on ....

Right enough about me - I'm off to see what you guys are up to this week.

Have fun. xx

----------------

Want to join in with MMOM?

All you need to do is:

* write a post on your blog entitled Meet Me On Monday
* tell us what you have been up to over the weekend and what your plans are for the week ahead
* share your creativity, influences and inspirations using 5 or more details about yourself from the list here
* link back to Jumbleberries (you can even use my new MMOM image if you like)
* leave me a comment below
* leave your name and URL in Mr Linky
I'll then pop by and have a read - easy (I hope).

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday?

2011-09-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

I had planned to finish of an Autumn leaves felt brooch I have been working on this evening, but when the kids came home from school announcing that tomorrow was wear a tea-cosy on your head day (obviously!), all previous plans went out the window..... Now I don't know about you, but we don't use a tea-cosy in our house, let only two, so this evening I'm having to design and make a couple. So this is what my workdesk looks like right now:

Wish me luck.

What's on your workdesk today? xx

Photographic Evidence

2011-09-21T13:03:00.000-07:00

Well, it took me so long on Monday to work out how to get Mr Linky to do his wizardy magic, that I ran out of time to attach any pictures to my MMOM post. Now I don't want you to get the impression that I am all talk and no action, so here is some photographic evidence of some of the things I've been up to this week:

Yo-yo Brooches (single, double and triple versions):

The planning stages of an autumn leaves brooch:

A purple heart brooch:

Blueberry cake - so scrummy that this is all that is left already:

Princess at Foxton Locks:

My little Superhero having an ice-cream at a Monster Trucks event, which he went to with Mr A. Nothing to do with sewing, baking or papercraft - I just thought it was a cute picture:

An for no other reason other than that I thought it was a funny, a picture of Princess jumping!

Have fun. xx

Meet Me on Monday - 7

2011-09-19T00:33:00.000-07:00

Morning. So how was your weekend? It has really felt Autumnal here. This has definitely influenced not only what I've been doing, eating and wearing, but what I'm making too. What about you - what have you been up to?

This week I'm -
Making: an autumn leaves brooch to pin to my jacket.
Cooking: a blueberry cake. Thanks to Blueberry Crafts for the recipe - doesn't it sound scrummy?
Wearing: a handmade yo-yo brooch made with my new stash of material.
Watching: Downton Abbey. Don't you love a period drama?
Visiting: Foxton Locks Festival. Good fun, although I was getting a bit stressed trying to keep the children away from the waters edge when we checked out the locks.
Eating: honey-mustard pork chops followed by apple and blackberry pie. Must definitely go to Zumba this week to work it all off.
Drinking: hot chocolate with cream - well it was cold and wet outside!
Dreaming of: an open fire.
Learning: how to make the house more hygge.
Remembering: that it is only September and this is England - it could be a beautifully warm and sunny day again tomorrow.

Let me know what you are up to this week - just add your name to the link below and I'll be sure to pop by and say hi.

Wishing you a productive week. xx

Favourite Thing On A Friday - Kitsch Teapots

2011-09-15T23:09:00.000-07:00

If asked to describe myself I would like to tell you that I am cool and sophisticated. That I have a sleek haircut and drive a fast sports car. That I wear red nails and drink a 6 o'clock martini everyday. That is what I would like to tell you.

In reality though, I'm much more traditional. I like vintage tea-cups filled with rose scented candles, I like Cath Kidston print bunting and I like cupcakes, covered in vanilla icing and 100s & 1000s.

There is another side to me though. One that I don't normally share with the world at large. But one that I feel ready to share with you here, today, right this minute:

My name is Clare and I Love Kitsch Teapots.

This little teapot with feet is my favourite - isn't it adorable? I bought years ago, long before I had a house of my own and was still living with my mum and dad. Now that I do have a house of my own I've realised that it doesn't go with anything else in my kitchen - but I just don't care, I love it and it makes me smile to look at it.

What is your favourite thing on a Friday?

Hope you have a fab weekend and hope you can pop back first thing next week to Meet Me On Monday. xx

What's on Your Worksdesk Wednesday

2011-09-14T04:18:00.000-07:00

What's on my work-desk this morning? Not much yet it has to be said.

I have big plans though, don't you worry - oh yes I have big plans.....

Well a couple of ideas anyway, tee hee.

I found this pack of material on my favourite market stall yesterday and thought that they were such pretty patterns that I just had to have them. I'm planning to spend this afternoon making some yo-yos which can be used on brooches, hairbands and even perhaps a wrist corsage. Sound like a plan??

Hope to be back later to show you the fruits of my labours. That is, if I still have time left after I have taken a peek at all the amazing desks organised by the talent Stamping Ground.

What's on your work-desk this chilly Wednesday? Hope you have a productive day. xx

PS - hope you can pop back after the weekend to Meet Me on Monday.

Monthly Make - An Orchid Brooch

2011-09-14T03:50:00.000-07:00

I'm growing a beautiful pink orchid on my kitchen windowsill, which I love. It was given to me a couple of years ago by someone very special, who, I am heartbroken to say, isn't with us anymore.

I've been thinking for sometime now that the flower shape would make a pretty brooch, along similar lines to the pansy brooch I made earlier in the year.

So yesterday, whilst I had a bit of creative quiet time, I had a go at making one:

What do you think?

I'm really pleased with the shape, although I had to physically draw round the flowers petals to get the proportions right!

I am very happy with how it turned out and think it is the perfect project for my entry in the Felt Fairy's Monthly Make Challenge. Take a look at the Flickr page here to see what the rest of Annie's super-creative followers have been making during September.

xx

What a peach!

2011-09-13T03:44:00.000-07:00

One of the great things, I think, about having young children is that I get to re-read some of my favourite childhood books.

Today - which happens to be Roald Dahl day - I'm going to be reading James and the Giant Peach to my Superhero and Princess in celebration of it's 50 years anniversary. Fab!

What are your favourite childhood books?

xx

Meet Me on Monday - 6

2011-09-12T04:51:00.000-07:00

Wow, Monday again already! Hope you had a great weekend? I managed to survive back to school week with my sanity still intact and then had a fun-filled weekend, so all is good.

Got to stay a bit more focused this week though, or the *plans* I made last week wont come to anything....

This week I'm:
Meeting: some self imposed deadlines, hopefully.
Making: new on-line friends - don't you just love blogland?
Growing: my ever increasing button collection.
Cooking: a stuffed marrow. Our neighbour gave us an large homegrown marrow, which I stuffed with lamb mince, mint & rosemary - just like my Nan used to make. Scrummy.
Wearing: my winter boots. It has got really chilly here.
Visiting: The Lubenham Scarecrow Festival. The best way to start the Autumn.
Listening to: the kids screaming and giggling on their first ride on a big wheel. It made me quite dizzy, but they loved it!
Eating: Apple pie, apple crumble, apple sauce - it was a bumper crop this year, lol.
Watching: re-runs of The House of Elliott on ITV3 - have I mentioned my obsession with the 1930s.....
Reading: Not sure yet - off to book group this evening.
Remembering: book bags, PE kits, packed lunches. So much to remember at half 8 in the morning!

What are you up to this week?

Have fun. xx

Meeet Me on Monday - 5

2011-09-05T13:07:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, it is so late on Monday that its practically Tuesday. Well without making excuses my little Princess started school today and although she took it all in her stride, I am an exhausted, emotional wreck! Not really, but it has taken up most of my day, so hope you can forgive me for the lateness of my Meet Me on Monday post.

So, this week I'm:
Growing: a variegated succulent bought at Eden during our holiday. Can you describe plants as funky?

Cooking: a banana loaf. Recipe from the Hummingbird Bakery book - my all time fav.
Wearing: a purple button ring, by Button It, bought at the Warkton Village Craft Market.
Reading: my new copy of Mollie Makes. Great as usual, although I'm not really getting the make your own desk lawn project - is it just me??
Visiting: the Arts & Crafts Fair in Harborough on Saturday. It was a bit disappointing this time it has to be said and I came home empty handed - ho hum.
Eating: Tapas with the girls on Wednesday evening. Scallops with chorizo here I come.
Watching: Home and Away. Mr A and I lived in Sydney before the kids came along so this is the perfect way to get my Aussie fix.
Listening to: Sophie Ellis Bexter. An oldy but a goody.
Making: Plans. Very exciting. Will hopefully share further details with you later in the week.

Enough about me, what are you up to this week?

Want to join in? Just write a post entitled Meet Me on Monday, including 5 or more from the list above, link back to Jumbleberries and then leave me a comment below so I can pop by and read what you are up to this week.

Have fun xx

Meet Me on Monday - week 4

2011-08-29T06:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry - this post is really late. Technology and I have been testing our relationship to the max this morning. So far it has the upper-hand.

Morning. Hope you have had a great weekend? Apologies for the lack of MMOM post last week, we had a family holiday down in Cornwall, so I had a computer and phone-free week Bet you can guess the theme of this weeks post, tee hee.

This week I'm -
Making: a bunting inspired felt necklace, in a seaside blue colour

Growing: my waistline - far too many cream-teas!!
Cooking: a Bank Holiday Family Lunch chicken pie - yum
Wearing: my new blue suede wedgies
Listening to: the kids laughing and laughing trying to get their kite to fly on the beach
Watching: Wilfred - weird and hilarious
Meeting: Mum for coffee
Visiting: The Eden Project, Padstow, Rock, St Ives - all my favourite places
Eating: fish and chips at the Harbour
Loving: being near to the sea
Reading: Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch - Harry Potter for grown-ups

Dreaming of: a small holding in the country - sigh
Drinking: far too much rose
Learning: just how much mess small children can get into when eating ice-cream
Remembering: just how much washing there is to do when you get back from a weeks holiday

We've been having a great time - what are you up to this week?

Want to join in? Just write a post entitled Meet Me on Monday, including 5 or more from the list above, link back to Jumbleberries and then leave me a comment below so I can pop by and read what you are up to this week.

Have fun xx

Meet Me On Monday - week 2

2011-08-15T02:00:00.000-07:00

Morning! Bit of a late start for me this morning, sorry. We went to London for the day yesterday, so we are all pretty worn out. Had a great weekend though, hope you did too?

This week I'm:
Watching: Shrek the Musical. Took the kids to see it in the West-End yesterday and it was brilliant. (There was a whisper that Angelina was there too with her kids). If you get a chance to see it, do, coz it is really, really good.
Making: A loopy corsage. Love this colour green.

Eating: Grilled Halloumi, cooked by Mr A on the BBQ - delicious!
Reading: Myrtle and Eunice, my fav blog at the mo.
Meeting: Famfa, for a glass of wine (or, two, or three...).
Remembering: That life is short, so be sure to fill it with love and laughter.

What are you up to this week?

Want to join in? Just write a post entitled Meet Me On Monday, link back to Jumbleberries, then leave a comment below and I'll pop over and see hello. Easy.

Have fun xx

Favourite Thing On A Friday - A Happy Mess

2011-08-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have recently found Mimi and Tilly and am really enjoy reading it (as I'm all for leading a Glittery Life!) so I thought I'd join in with their new Favourite Thing On A Friday series of posts;

Well, we are four weeks into the the seven week summer holiday and so far I have managed to keep the kids reasonably entertained - phew. As the weather hasn't been great this week it has given us a good opportunity to do some Arts & Crafts at home, which is one of our most favourite things to do. We've done some great messy play, such as playing with cornflour and shaving foam and we've done some lovely painting and sticking projects too. Here are a couple of examples of things we've made:

Suncatchers to hang in the windows.

Mini masterpieces to hang in the freshly decorated play-house.

Some fun wooden spoon people (this was my favourite project).

What's your favourite thing on a Friday?

Here is another couple of reasons why I haven't minded the rain today:

Think I'm going to have a bumper harvest!

Hope you have a fab weekend. Don't forget to Meet Me on Monday so we can share our adventures from the weekend and our plans for the week ahead.

xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday - A Finished Project!

2011-08-10T01:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, I actually have a finished project on my workdesk this week.

It is one of Princesses little friends birthday and as she loves all things owl related, I thought I'd make her an owl brooch, based on my Little Owl design. So this is what I was making in the early hours of this morning:

Hope she likes it. What is on your workdesk this Wednesday morning? Wishing a productive day. xx

The Paper Peacock

2011-08-08T08:19:00.000-07:00

Before the summer is out Mr A and I plan on redecorating our hallway. As our property was built in the 1930s, and to reflect my love affair with all things Art Deco, we have decided on a Moderne Black & White theme - white walls, small black and white tiles on the floor, a black Bakerlite telephone and perhaps even an elegant skyscraper-esq art deco mirror.... well that's the plan anyway.

However, to make sure the black and white still has a bit of personality, I've decided I will need an injection colour. So take a look at my latest treat, purchased from Folksy last month:

The Paper Peacock, by Caroline Rose Art.

Isn't it fabulous! It's a hand-cut paper collage print. I just love it - I love the colours, I love the shapes and I think it will be just perfect in my new art deco theme.

If you haven't come across Caroline's work before, take a look at her Folksy shop - lots of lovely designs.

Let me know what catches your eye. xx

Meet Me on Monday

2011-08-08T02:01:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I always feel as if Mondays belong to everyone else. There is always so much to organise for the house, the kids, work, etc, etc, that before I know it the day has gone and I haven't had an opportunity to do anything for myself.

What I would really love to do on a Monday morning, when everyone has been packed off to work and school, is to meet up with my girlfriends for a coffee and a catch-up. I like to hear what has been happening over the weekend and what's planned for the week ahead and then share what I have been up to too.

So, do you fancy Meeting Me on Monday for a coffee and a catch up? If you do, just post on your blog 5 or more details about yourself from the list below, link back to Jumbleberries and then leave me a link here so I can pop by and have a read - easy (I hope).

Here's the list:

This week I'm
* making
* growing
* cooking
* wearing
* listening to
* watching
* meeting
* visiting
* eating
* loving
* reading
* dreaming of
* drinking
* learning
* remembering

Looking forward to hearing all about you and sharing a little bit more about me too. xx

To start us off, here's what I'm up to this week;

This week I'm:
Making - an Orchid Brooch, inspired by a beautiful plant I have growing in my kitchen.
Watching - The Hour. My obsession with 50s glamour continues. Move over Mad Men, the Brits have arrived!
Drinking - Earl Grey Tea. I had forgotten how much I like it.
Dreaming of - A Shepherds Hut for my garden that I can use as a craft room. Dream-on says Mr A.
Listening to - The Beach Boys. Two weeks til our holiday by the sea, so I'm getting in to the vibe.

What are you up to this week? Whatever it is, I hope you have a good one. xx

Sunday Baking - Strawberry Shortcakes

2011-08-07T13:18:00.000-07:00

My little Superhero's favourite thing to eat at the moment is strawberries, so when Betty over at Tales From Betty Bee Towers posted a delicious sounding Strawberry Shortcake recipe earlier in the week, I knew I had found my Sunday Baking project.

Superhero was tasked with getting all the the equipment ready whilst I gathered all the ingredients. I was so pleased with myself that I had actually remembered to put the butter in the freezer in preparation that I had then completely forgotten to buy some cream, which of course, I only discovered after we had started mixing flour and sugar, etc. So we had to improvise and use a strawberry yoghurt instead - which I have to report worked really well!

Superhero enjoyed grating the butter, which he said looked fancy, and wanted gingerbread men shaped shortcakes rather than round ones (and why not?) which we covered with generous amounts of strawberry jam and cream - totally yummy. Betty recommended serving with a cup of Earl Grey tea, which definitely gets the thumbs up from me.

Look good, don't they? Did you do any baking today? xx

I Love - Chinese Food

2011-07-31T12:31:00.000-07:00

In a previous life I was lucky enough to get to work in both Japan and Singapore for a short time. This was great because not only do I love to travel, but I absolutely love Asian food. Sushi, Thai, Malaysian, I love them all but my absolute favourite is Chinese food.

I would happily eat it everyday, but have to settle with making it at least once a week. I am really keen for my children to love it too - and I also really want them to learn how to use chopsticks. Although I am good at using them now, I can still remember that horrible sinking feeling I had when, early on in my working life, I was taken to a Chinese restaurant with a large group of people I didn't know so well and had to use chopsticks for the first time!

So look what we found in our local supermarket yesterday - training chopsticks, perfect!

Guess what we all ate for dinner last night?

What's your favourite food? xx

Sunday Baking - Chocolate Muffins

2011-07-31T12:13:00.000-07:00

Whilst Mr A and Princess had a little snooze on the sofa this afternoon, my little Superhero & I decided to do some baking. After some consideration, Superhero decided he would like to make some Chocolate Brownies and who am I to argue?

We use the Humingbird Bakery recipe, purely because officially (well in my world anyway) they are the best brownies you will ever taste!

The trouble is, one just isn't enough.

Did you do any baking today? xx

A couple of Happy Campers

2011-07-31T12:05:00.000-07:00

Well, as you may have guessed, I didn't get anytime to myself on Wednesday to do my latest project, as I had prmised myself. No instead the kids talked me in to painting the inside of their new playhouse (details of which I will share with you another time). I did however spend a happy hour last night designing, cutting and sticking - here is what I came up with:

We're all going on a summer holiday!

California Dreaming

I'm going to laminate them and the kids can use them as picnic place-mats.

xx

Boo-Yah!

2011-07-29T01:25:00.000-07:00

My Little Superhero and my Little Princess love the film Despicable Me. The DVD get's watched at least once a week at the moment.

So they were very excited to receive these little Minions, made for them by my lovely friend Famfa over at Busy Butterfingers. They have gone everywhere with them this week!

Aren't they cute? xx

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday?

2011-07-27T04:08:00.000-07:00

After a week of entertaining the kids with trips to the museum, train journeys, out for lunch, time at the playbarn, meeting friends, picnics at the park, etc, etc, I've declared today is scheduled as a quiet day at home. So far so good.....

I've recently been playing with paper, having treated myself to a pretty pack of Dovecraft's Back to Basics. So this is what I have on my workdesk today:

I have an idea in my head to create a couple of holiday themed collages - one of a pretty caravan and one of a retro campervan. If the kids leave me alone for longer than thirty seconds, I might be able to show the end results later - fingers crossed.

What's on your worksdesk this Wednesday? Wishing you a productive day. xx

And here's one I made earlier .....

2011-07-27T04:07:00.000-07:00

... well two actually.

I had a go at turning my Little Owl design into a paper collage.

Deciding that this actually worked really well, I then had a go at a Little Hedgehog.

I think Hedgehog might be my new favourite. What do you think? xx

I Love ..... Cath Kidston Bags

2011-05-28T13:05:00.000-07:00

Like most people I know, I am a big fan of Cath Kidston prints, especially on bags. Last year for my birthday and then for Christmas I received a bag for my knitting and one to keep my felt projects in.

So how happy was I to discover that this month's Easy Living magazine also included a free CK print tote?

So now imagine how over the moon I was this morning when upon opening my birthday pressies I discovered that my wonderful husband Mr A had given a copy of Sew! which includes everything you need to make CK Shoulder Bag?

In case you hadn't worked it out, I am a very, very happy. xx

Birthday Presents

2011-05-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Just between you and me - it's my birthday today!

I have been super lucky and received some lovely presents.

Here's a couple to take a peek at:

A cute, cute bag from my beautiful children ....

.... and you know how much I love Owls, well my lovely friend Karen gave me this fab notecard set.

What a lucky girl I am.

Chelsea Flowers

2011-05-28T12:26:00.000-07:00

I've enjoyed watching coverage of the Chelsea Flower Show this year. The colour and form of the exotic plants coupled with the themes and structure of the garden designs - it's all really inspirational.

I'm not very good at gardening truth be told, pansies are about as much as I can cope with (and they pretty much look after themselves!). I do think they are really pretty though, so thought I would have a go at making a felt pansy brooch for my mum for her birthday.

I choose a purple and lilac version (although it looks slightly blue in the photo) with a yellow centre and used a rich green colour for the background. I'm really pleased with the shape of the petals, and although it turned out a little larger than I had intended, I think it will look really lovely on a jacket or bag.

Can't wait to give it to her. Hope she likes it. xx

A little treat

2011-05-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

Wow, where has this week gone? The last 7 days seem to have passed in the blink of an eye. It hasn't been a terribly productive week for me in terms of making, but I have had fun (hope you have too?).

Last Saturday I popped by the Warketon Village Craft Market, organised by Deanne over at Quirky Boots. If you have not been yet, it's really worth a visit as you'll find lots of lovely local crafters selling their handmade products, plus there is an opportunity for a cream tea too - perfect!

My friend Lorna from Dab and a Dash was there selling her handmade journals and notebooks along side other stall holders selling vintage sweets, jewellery, home accessories, vintage cake stands and driftwood art.

I treated myself to this beautiful rose scented candle. I just love the green glass of the deco dressing table box - isn't it gorgeous?

I Love ..... Agatha Christie

2011-05-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

On a Sunday, somewhere between swimming lessons (which start at 8:15am - yes, really, on a Sunday!!) dog walking, tennis lessons, bike riding, Sunday lunch (cooking and eating), homework, gardening and baking, we all go for a walk into town and have a coffee together. And as long as I've remembered to pack the colouring books and pens for the children, I get to read for half an hour or so which is the the only time it happens in the week!.

My favourite author of all time has to be Agatha Christie. I know that some might find this a bit of an old fashioned choice but I prefer to think of it as vintage literature.

I love anything to do with the 30s (art deco jewellery is another fav of mine) so I especially love the Poirot stories. Apart from the fact that they are brilliant who done it's, the imagery is so romantic - ladies with matching hats and gloves, scarlet red lips and black patent bags, chaps with their sleek sports cars and gentleman's club both sipping cocktails on a steam train headed for the south of France. Even the rotters are cool with their smoking, drinking and card playing.

Yes a Sunday morning cup of coffee (a piece of chocolate cake) and an Agatha Christie and I'm a happy woman.

Decopatch addict

2011-05-17T22:14:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I had a lovely few hours at our monthly crop. As well as being able to finish off a couple of (very) outstanding projects, we also got to try our hand at decopatch.

Have you tried it yet? It's fab, but be warned it is totally addictive.

Since the crop I have been wandering around the house looking for things to decorate and, well the long and the short of it is, anything that isn't moving will basically get covered in pretty paper and glue!

So on my workdesk this morning I have the first of my many decopatch projects and have a couple of lovely little papier-mache boxes which I intend to decorate - too cute!

What's on your workdesk this Wednesday morning?

Wishing you a productive day x.

Oh by the way, a big thank you to everyone that has left me lovely comments on my previous WOYWW posts - although I have visited everyone's blog in return, for some reason not all my comments are published. I am sure this is due to my limited technical capability, so will endeavor to get it sorted today. xx

It's all me, me, me!

2011-05-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

Both Deanne at Quirky Boots, and Julia at Stamping Ground have posted this fun list today, so we can all get to know them just a little bit better, take a look.

Thought it would be fun to have a go too:

A. Age: 37 (but next birthday at the end of the month). I had planned to be a millionaire by the time I turned 40, better get my finger out I suppose
B. Bed size: double
C. Chore that you hate: ironing and I never do it coz let's face it, life is just too short.
D. Dogs: A very handsome Beagle named Frank (Mr A's choice of name).
E. Essential start to your day: a hot, strong cup of tea - I can't even speak until I've had at least 3 cups
F. Favorite color: purple (lilac, mauve, lavender, violet - I love them all)
G. Gold or Silver: platinum (ideally from Tiffany's darling)
H. Height: 5'10"
I. Instruments you play: None, but learning to play the piano is on my things to do before list
J. Job title: Crafty-mama
K. Kids: two - 6 year old Superhero and 4 year old Princess
L. Live: Market Haborough, UK
M. Mother's name: Sue
N. Nicknames: Dancing Queen

O. Overnight hospital stays: thankfully only when my babies were born

P. Pet peeve: being spoken over

Q. Quote from a movie: You're terrible Muriel

R. Right or left handed: Right

S. Siblings: one cool brother and one beautiful sister

T. Time you wake up: on a school day, around 5:30am - I like the calm before the storm

U. Underwear: these days more Bridget Jones giant pants

V. Vegetable you hate: haven't found one I dislike yet

W. What makes you run late: I'm always late for everything, there always seems to be just one more thing to do before I can leave the house

X. X-Rays you've had: only at the Dentist (eek!)

Y. Yummy food that you make: I make a mean Keema Lamb

Z. Zoo animal: technically not a zoo animal, but I think the Octopus is awesome - beautifully balletic and weirdly alien-like all at the same time.

What's on your list?

Mollie Makes

2011-05-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

I bought issue 1 of Mollie Makes yesterday, the new magazine for people who love the crafty life.

Have you had a chance to take a look yet?

I really like it and spent a happy evening reading it from cover to cover. For someone who is relatively new to crafting, I really like the mix of articles about established makers and designers, examples of cute handcrafted products and where to find them and inspirational projects. I particularly like the Peter Pan Collars project, which will defo be added to my to do list.

Looking forward to issue 2.

I Love..... notebooks

2011-05-17T13:48:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love notebooks. I have hundreds of them. Pretty little pads of paper perfect for slipping into my handbag or pocket ready for jotting down the next brilliant idea (lol), making a new list, or using as a mini scrapbook for stuff I like torn from this months magazine. These are three of my current stash - aren't they cute?

Got there in the end

2011-05-17T13:46:00.000-07:00

Those of you that are taking part in the Monthly Make Challenge over at the Felt Fairy will already know that the lovely Annie suggested making a Stanley the Dog as everyone's make for March. Well being the type off chick that likes to dance to the rhythm of her own beat (or should that read; terrible scatterbrain that is always months behind everyone else?) my March make has turned into my May make, but hey ho, got there in the end. I'm rather proud of the end result actually and am really loving the colour-combo - what do you think?

Sunday Baking - Country Loaf

2011-05-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is a recipe that I have been making for years and it is absolutely delicious. My mum used to make it for me and my brother and sister for tea on a Sunday and now I make it for my family. I'm not sure where the original recipe came from (so don't know who to credit) and I guess it has changed a bit over the years, but this is how I make it today:

8oz self raising flour
2oz butter
1 egg
1 grated carrot
1 small onion
4oz cheese
1 teaspoon of mustard
a splash of milk

Mix all the ingredients together and pop in a greased loaf tin. Cook at 180oC for around 35 mins.

Serve warm with a generous spread of butter. Totally yummy.

Enjoy x

I Love .... a gin & tonic

2011-05-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

I love a Friday night G & T. For me it is the best way to start the weekend.

Ice and a slice anyone?

Have a fab weekend x

Better late than never!

2011-05-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

Whenever I leave the house it seems to me that I return with yet another square of felt for my ever expanding collection. I think I must a have a piece of felt for every colour in the rainbow and then some. So why is it that most of my projects end up either purple or pink (I guess I'm just too much of a girlie girl at heart - I can't help it!). Well I have a couple of projects to work on this evening and am determined to use some different colours. This is what I have on my workdesk today:

Doesn't it look lovely?

Both of these projects are well out of date, but hey, better late than never, right?

My first project is an Easter Chick. I know, Easter was well over a week ago, but I only came across the pattern over at Myrtle & Eunice at the weekend and it's sooo cute that I just have to give it a go.

And my second project is Stanley the Dog for the Felt Fairy's Monthly Make Challenge for March! And yes I do realise that it is May already (and May the 4th be with you, by the way), but things have been a bit hectic and, well, I just never got round to it .... but tonight is the night. I'll let you know how I get on!

Happy WOYWW x.

May Day Flowers

2011-05-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

I wanted to make something May Day related for my May entry for the Monthly Make Challenge. Two reasons really - firstly, I thought if I linked it to May Day (ie, the beginning of the month) I might stand a chance of actually finishing the project this time round! Secondly, I have been practicing making structured felt flowers, (as opposed to flat, five petal daisy shapes which I have used on other projects) and thought where better to use flowers than on a May Day project.

My initial idea was to make a May Queen Crown, but then realised that my new flowers might actually be slightly too heavy. So I opted for a flower basket instead. I've used pinks and purples (as they remind me of cherry blossom and violets) which I think gives it a spring feel. Some ribbon, a couple of structured flowers and some little button detailing finishes the look. It's not too big and as I've not designed or even made a a little bag from felt before I am really happy with how it's turned out.

With all the thoughts of Weddings this weekend I even wondered whether it would work as a Flower Girl basket?

Spring Projects

2011-04-27T00:26:00.000-07:00

Mr A and I have got some time at home with the children this week. We have been out and about lots and are having a lovely time. Today though, I am having some me time and staying at home to do a couple of crafting projects. This is what my workdesk looks like this morning:

I'm loving all these Spring colours. My plan is to make a May Queen Crown as my latest make for the Monthly Make Challenge over at the Felt Fairy. I'll let you know how I get on.

What's on your workdesk this Wednesday morning?

I found this fab over-sized button on my favourite market stall yesterday, which I thought would look great on a hair-slide, so I'm going to have a go at that too.

Wishing you a productive day.

Party Time

2011-04-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

WOYWW

I've got a busy day ahead of me today. Later this morning (as part of my day job - Jumbleberries Play) I'm running a children's Easter party. I've planned loads of different Easter themed activities, including an indoor version of an Easter egg hunt. So here I am in the early hours of the morning cutting up hundreds of egg shapes in preparation. Not the most creative tasks I admit but they have added a welcome splash of colour to my otherwise empty workdesk.

What's on your workdesk this Wednesday morning?

Fairies & Elves

This mornings Easter party will be the second party I've organised this week. My little Princess turned 4 at the weekend, so we gave her Fairy & Elves party on Saturday. As well as traditional party games. dancing and singing, we set up a couple of craft tables (obviously!) where her party guests were able to make Elf and Butterfly themed party crowns and magic wand pencil toppers. We ended up with glitter everywhere as you can image, but it was all great fun.

I used the party as an excuse to get creative and made everyone a little felt egg-cosy party-favour (with a magic star on the front for the boys and a butterfly for the girls) hid a little chocolate egg inside and popped them in the party bags......

... and I had a go at making a fairy inspired cake and some little toadstool cupcakes. The cupcakes went down a treat with everyone (hence there being only two left for the picture!).

Not bad for for a first attempt. Next year I'll be taking inspiration from Busy Butterfingers - how amazing are Famfa's cakes?

Right, I better go and finish my prep for the party. Fingers crossed the beautiful weather continues.

the view from my kitchen window

Wishing you a productive day. x

What's On Your Workdesk Wednesday?

2011-03-15T23:46:00.000-07:00

There is loads I should be working on.....

I'm a couple of weeks behind with my personal challenge of making something new every week, for starters. I've had lots of ideas of course, but as yet nothing has taken shape yet. Then there is Stanley the Dog which needs making for the Monthly Make Challenge over at the Felt Fairy. Plus I have committed to have a stall at the Warkton Village Craft Market in May so I really need to be making some stock for that. And if all that wasn't enough, Little Princess turns 4 next month so there is a fairy themed party to plan and prepare for too.

And then of course there is the day job (Jumbleberries Play). I need to design a crafty project for a children's party we have scheduled on Sunday. I need to finish off putting together our new range of play packs we are going to have available at our Messy Play sessions. There is an Mother's Day Afternoon Tea and Craft Market to organise (to promote and support local business mums) AND I am trying to launch a new session next month, (all about craft of course, but this time it's just for mums).
So here I am, up with the lark, to finish (or even start) some of these projects before the mad rush of packed lunches, book bags, etc, etc, starts. So what's on my workdesk this Wednesday morning? Well I got distracted - Mr A's mum gave me a lovely book on baking at the weekend and I have itching to have a go at the Whoopie Pie recipe .... so this is what I have spent the last hour doing:

At least the children will have something for their lunch box!

What's on your workdesk this wednesday? Hope you have a productive day.

I have been 'making', promise!

2011-02-28T03:34:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, I set myself a challenge of making something new every week and then after just 4 projects it all goes quiet. Well, without making excuses things have been a bit hectic in our house recently. We've had two birthdays (a big birthday for Mr A) and a 6th birthday for little Superhero (which obviously needed a big party to be planned). Mr A and little Princess were poorly for a week or so and both needed a bit of tlc, then we went away for a few days and then it was half term and before I've realised it it's the end of February, eek! So big apologies for not blogging for a while, however I have still been making, promise! Here's the evidence:

A card for Mr A
As mentioned, at the end of January Mr A celebrated a big birthday. He really didn't want to make too much of it, so we just had a small do with family at home. However, a birthday means an excuse to make a card, right? So I made this phone inspired one.

I had seen a version of a phone card in a magazine before Christmas and thought it was great way of making something really personal as I could incorporate mini pictures of the kids. I'm really pleased with how it turned out, although I am not sure he appreciated my declaring his age on the front!

Share the Love

We were away for St V's Day, so I do have to admit I didn't actually make anything valentine related this year. However, I did recently take part in my first every swap, which required me to make a handmade heart. I made this hanging decoration of 3 hearts (in my favourite purples, of course), which I thought would look lovely hanging in a little girls room. I received a lovely email of thanks from my swap partner, which, as this was the first time I'd shared my homemade creations with anyone else, absolutely made my day.

Tooth Fairy Pillow
We have just spent a lovely week in the New Forest, a great place to be in early Spring when all the snow drops are just starting to make their presence known. Even on a wet day, I always find walking in the woods quite magical and indulge in childlike daydreams of enchanted forests.... Anyway, thoughts of fairies and woodlands gave me an idea for my next make, when I got home - a toadstool shaped tooth fairy pillow.

It's made from red and white felt, is slightly padded and is embellished with little flower beads and white buttons. There is a little pocket behind the door, perfect for holding a small tooth or shiny coin. I've used some cute red and white polka dot ribbon, so it can be hung on the end of the bed to await a visit from the tooth fairy or just as a cute hanging decoration.

Learning a new skill
As I'm quite new to crafting I have recently joined a local crop organised by the fab Deanne over at Quirky Boots. It's been brilliant at helping me make some crafty friends as well as giving me the opportunity to learn some new skills and techniques. Well as you can see I am currently loving making things out of felt so it was with absolute joy to arrive at the crop last week and discover that we were going to learn how to make our own felt!

Love it, love it, love it! What great fun and what a fab product to create. I'm completely addicted now and had to purchase a small stash of wool so I can continue felting at home - and with such beautiful colours available, how could I resist!

A Monthly Make Challenge - January 2011

2011-01-31T13:38:00.000-08:00

As well as my personal challenge of trying to make something new every week, I have also joined the Monthly Make Challenge 2011 organised by Annie the Felt Fairy. I am really excited to see what others have made and a bit nervous truth be told about showing off my little projects - but nothing ventured and all that. So here is my make for January:

When I'm not crafting (sewing, knitting, baking, card-making ....) I like nothing more than enjoying a hot creamy latte in our local coffee shop, preferably accompanied by a large piece of cake and all enjoyed whilst reading an Agatha Christie - heaven.

Luckily my little Princess (who is still only 3) is quite happy to accompany me on my (very regular) visits to the coffee shop, providing of course she has a stash of books, magazines and colouring to keep her busy. She is such a good girl and I love our little outings together so I thought I'd make her a little crayon roll, that she can keep all her favourite colours in and use when we are out and about.

I've seen a few of these recently and thought that they were really practical and knew that it would be just up her street. As she's a girlie-girl I made my version using her favourite pink and lilac colours and added a little flower detail for added cuteness. A little bit of pretty ribbon keeps it all neat and tidy. I'm really happy with the end result - what do you think?

Are we nearly there yet?

2011-01-31T13:32:00.000-08:00

Well I don't know about you, but we are suffering with the January blues a bit in our house, so Mr A decided that we might all benefit from a little holiday. As you can imagine the kids are super excited (as am I to be fair) and regularly ask whether today is the day we are going on holiday. So I had an idea to help them count the sleeps until we go away and made them these little blackboards which they can update with chalk every morning.

They were really fun and quick to make and were a perfect way of using up a couple of summer-themed Sizzix dolls I had left over from a kids beach party we organised last summer.... and more importantly the kids are really enjoying using them - perfect.

A very special make

2011-01-18T13:00:00.000-08:00

January is definitely a month for birthdays in our family – not only is this a great excuse for a party, but it also provides lots of inspiration for crafting projects. My latest project has been extra special to make however, as its a gift for my little sister's new baby, who arrived at the beginning of the year.

This is the first time I’ve had a go at making a name banner, so am very pleased with the end result. You’ll notice that I used the same materials as for Little Owl (coz I liked them) and the same shabby-chic style (because I’m not very good at neat). Mr A suggested that is was a good job that she had been given a short name which contained letters with straight edges – cheek!

Meet Little Owl

2011-01-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

I’m very pleased to tell you that I have stuck to my challenge (which is a challenge in itself for me – lol) and completed my first make of the year!

Meet Little Owl. He was made for Mr A’s niece’s 7^th birthday (Happy Birthday Sweetie x). I really like the design I came up with and am really pleased with how he turned out. I love the his shabby-chic look and think the materials work really well together – particularly as I managed to use some pretty tea-towels that I found in the sale in Wilkinsons and a pair of Superhero’s jeans that he never got to wear as he grew too tall, before he was round enough for them to fit him round the waist! I know that Little Owl has been hung up in niece’s bedroom already, so all in all, I’m rather proud of my first make.

A new challenge

2011-01-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

Mr A and I decided that we wanted this Christmas to be a bit less commercial and a bit more personal, so set ourselves a little challenge to make as many of our gifts as we could. We referred to this challenge as the 12 Makes of Christmas - this is what we made:

1. 4 Children's Door Hangers
2. An Apron for Mr A's mum
3. 15 Christmas Cards, picture designed by our little Superhero
4. 5 Felt Brooches
5. 6 Bird Feeders, Mr A's design
6. A Christmas Wreath for the front door
7. 12 Mugs of Snowman Soup for the kid's friends
8. A batch of Reindeer Food, which we left for Rudolph on Xmas Eve
9. 6 Hair-band Holders, for our nieces and god-daughters
10. 10 Salt-dough Christmas Tree Decorations, decorated by our Little Princess
11. 3 Packets of Spiced Orange Chocolate Brownies, for Superhero's Teachers.
12. 2 Felt Christmas Party Hats

Not bad? We really loved being creative and are very proud of our end products... but now I am completely bitten by the making bug, so have set myself a new challenge to make something every week for 2011. I've already started my first item - I'll let you know how I get on.

New Year, New Start

2011-01-03T13:05:00.000-08:00

No resolutions for 2011, just a personal challenge!