Beaky

(Was gonna be Monday then Tuesday but is now) Thursday manger doesn't have quite the same ring to it!

2011-07-12T00:30:00.000-07:00

Oops sorry I'm a few days late. Such a busy foody and boozy weekend! Friday I had my mums hen do and we went to Terracotta which is an amazing all you can eat chinese buffet restaurant. I made sure I had lots of the expensive stuff like Salmon, Tiger prawns, Mussels and lets not forget the sushi (Oh how I love sushi!). We went for drinks after but as we had so much to eat we just sloughed on a big comfy sofa and couldn't move!

Saturday we went to Fins second birthday (all day) bbq. I think there were 3 or may be four rounds of food, my favourite being some super spicy tiger prawns. The party was at my friend Lucys inlaws. They have an amazing out door space and lots to keep the kids entertained for hours. We only left at 11pm cos the boys had finally had enough and just wanted to go to sleep. Funny they still managed to wake up at 8am the following morning. Far to much Cider and Pimms was consumed to get up that early - How rude! Thanks again to the Boyles for a fantastic day xxx

Sunday night I went for another meal this time at San Carlo a fantastic authentic Italian. We were celebrating Lozzie my sister inlaws 30th birthday. It was a lovely meal and a really nice get together.

To say that I was pooped after all that drinking and eating is an understatement. Was a bit of a zombie the next day. But I did manage to design this -

Its a poster for the village Gala in a few weeks.

Now I just need to pack for my hols!!

Really quick recipes this week -

Grate 1 carrot and 1 courgette, add some mayonnaise, freshly ground black pepper, mix and tada! Carrot and courgette coleslaw - Its delish!

I'll be back Mon 28th! B x

Wonderful wellies

2011-07-07T02:07:00.000-07:00

Why? Well because I need a pair and just can't seem to make my mind up.

Heart buttons - £17.99 and free delivery

Knit print - These are the ones I really, really want but they only have size 3 available.

Boo hoo!!

Next lets meet the lovely Doris - Pink sweetpea print

Red polka dot

Zebra print

Lemons

Cath Kidston - Shooting stars

Oh and I just had to include this kids pair - Botte Kenza. So wish they did this in an adults size 5 or that I had a girl to put them on!

At the mo I think my favs are the zebra print (apart from the knit one that I can't have!) but I am still looking and an very likely to change my mind a few times before I actually get around to ordering some. May be can help me decide. Which is your fav?

Obviously the most import thing about your wellies is that they keep your feet dry when splashing in puddles. A very close second for me is they must be FUN!

Seeya Monday!

B x

Monday manger - Courgettes, carrot, curry, chicken..... Oh and a parcel too

2011-07-04T09:25:00.000-07:00

Oops never got around to posting on Thursday. I went the the allotment and planned to post photos but managed to forget my camera. Well I'm not really a morning person and its hard enough get me and the boys ready. Especially if its a morning after I have worked at the pub. Any way no photos of the actual allotment but we had our first harvest -

The courgettes are going crazy!

Baby carrots from pricking out, just couldn't throw these away so they went in a bolognaise.

1 radish is better than none.

This is only half our bounty as Debbie had the other. Have been again today and picked about 8 more courgettes. Any tasty recipes for these greatly would be great. Managed to remember the camera today just didn't get around to taking any piccies.

Also look a parcel. For moi?

Yes! Look at this amazing parcel notebook I received.

Sent by the lovely Justine (blog). Thanks x I love it!

She won some of my postcards and wanted to send me something in return, so it was more like a swap. These are available in here.

Heres the Chicken and chickpea curry I made last night it was delish (I added some spinach from the garden). The recipe is from the New curry secret by Kris Dhillon . If you want an authentic Indian restaurant curry this book is a must have.

Better see how dinner is doing. The chicken thighs I had in the fridge with todays us by date on were green!!!! Do you think courgette makes a good chicken substitute? Moroccan Courgette any one?

Back on Thurs,

B xxx

Monday Manger

2011-06-27T02:53:00.000-07:00

Ok so here is the second foodie post. This week I am sharing the food growing in the garden, everything seems to have exploded over the last few days!!

The Radishes

The potatoes

The tomatoes

The lettuce......

more lettuce.......

yet more lettuce filling spaces in the border.......

.....and even more lettuce!

Not only is it delious it looks great too! Thanks She and Al xx

Chili or pepper not sure which this is now!

We are running out of room its only a small garden!!!!! Luckily me and Deb are subletting half an allotment will share that next week. Hoping to see some baby courgettes when I go later in the week.

Oh and the recipe this week is Feta and sun dried tomato bread -

300ml water

450g strong white bread flour

2 tbsp olive oil

4 sun dried toms (50g ish), finely chopped

1 tsp salt

1 tsp fast-acting yeast

100g feta cheese, broken in to small pieces

Put everything in the bucket, set on basic white, medium loaf size and medium crust. Easy peasy and tastes gorgeous.

Sorry if you don't have a bread maker but if you know a little about bread making I'm sure you can make it with out.

This mornings doodles of jars, not sure why! Think they will end up on cards as I have decided to start making them again. Not to sell just to give.

Off to pick some lettuce for lunch. Ciao for now!

B xxx

Watch the birdie

2011-06-23T00:23:00.000-07:00

Hi guys!

How are you? I'm tired this week and am looking forward to the weekend, just hope the weather will be kind to us. Pls every one cross your finger.

As the lovely Pip has recieved her bday gift I can now share with you what I made for her. She loves green so thought this bag and vintage fabric combo would do prefectly!

I also made her this cute crocheted birdie which was a sort of prototype. Hope she doesn't mind me using her as a guinea pig if you know what I mean.

Ok so this week I have had a done some taste testing at the pub (the ostrich is amazing!), visited the school about Isaac starting in sept, baked some courgette and onion bread (actually Dan did that!), made new pen pots, coasters, birdies and have been getting some stock ready to be sold in a shop in Sheffield.

The shop is called A Crafty Crafting and I am renting a shelf there. It opens on Saturday and will be selling craft supplies and hand made gifts. You should definitely go and check it out if you are in the area. Heres a selection of what I have sent -

Thanks for popping by. See you soon,

B xxx

The very first Monday Manger!

2011-06-20T02:55:00.000-07:00

Hiya! So I have decided to do the foody post then and plan to keep to it every Monday. The garlic and onion bread was amazing and the inlaws loved it! So much so they are thinking of getting a bread maker themselves, I can feel a bake off coming!

I have since made some feta and sundried tomato. Its absolutely delious and is about to be made into sarnies for todays picnic at the park. Yummy! I will share that recipe next week.

As it was fathers day yesterday and Dan had to work I thought it would be nice for the kids to make him something. We made lots of little shortbread biccies and that spelt out a special message just for him.

A great recipe to make with the kids as it is so simple and involves getting your hands dirty!

You will need-

75g Caster sugar

175g Butter

275g Plain flour

Mix flour and sugar

Rub butter into flour and sugar

Push together to form a dough

Roll out (kids might find it easier be to roll between two sheets of grease proof paper)

Cut out biscuits

Put on tray and bake @ gas 4 for about 10 minutes (depending on how big they are)

The recipe says it makes about 20 but I always end up with loads more. Oh and sometimes I add vanilla extract to.

Seeya Thurs,

B xxx

Oh what a lucky girl I am!

2011-06-16T03:02:00.000-07:00

Ok so this week i'm gonna share some of the fantastic presents I received for my bday. I was so lucky to get so many lovely things.

Its very hard to choose but I think this is my fav, a giant button pincushion. Belinda said she'd been looking for that perfect gift and then she saw this.

My older brother Leon (the artist also known as LAKart) gave me this canvas plus another. I am commissioning him to do a pop arty family portrait. You know like one big square, split in to four, a drawing of each of us, one in each corner painted in four different colours..... I will share that with you when its finished. Just need to decide on colours. Am thinking Teal and Olive green to go with my plans for the dining room.

I also received 3 bags! Which is fab as you can never have to many. I'm sure when I told Dan he saw secretly rolling his eyes and thinking "more bags!" This ones from Lozzie my sister in law. (technically shes my other halves sister). I love it!

These oh so cute measuring spoons are from Pippa and Linds. Think some one may have been reading my blog. I have stacking measuring cup in the same design. They clubbed together and got me lots of lovely bits and bobs. Thanks girls, love them all x

Oh and the dress! I have been eyeing this up for months for my mums wedding. I just kept thinking i can't or rather I shouldn't. In the end I didn't have to as Dan and the boys got me it. Now all I need are some shoes.

My Inlaws (or outlaws as my friend likes to call hers) got me two books that have been on my wishlist for a while. The first is called Hand Job which isn't as rude as it sounds. its a book on hand type. Which is basically hand drawn lettering/font Remember bubble writng and doodling on school books?

The other is Print and Pattern by Bowie Style(check out the blog) which is a must have for any one who likes pattern. I could sit and look at it for hours! I know they will give me so much inspiration over the coming months and years.

Last week I made this for Emma and Chris's beautiful new baby daughter Florence. They are moving soon and Emma said they are thinking of basing her room decoration on my embroidery. Matching bunting may be?

This week I have been making a few gifts for a friend, wont say who in case she is reading. Well they are in the post so will have to share what I made her next week as don't want to spoil the surprise. Shhhh! "

I don't think I have mentioned that I got a bread maker for Christmas. It is fabulous, I don't buy bread any more and I know whats in it. This book was another bday pressie, yesterday I made blueberry cake. Today as I type I have some onion and garlic bread on the go. Thinking I might start a recipe sharing post every Monday. Might call it Monday Manger or Monday Munchies. What d'ya think?

Lastly this was breakfast!! Yes I had the cheddar's (two packets) too!!

See ya next week,

B xxx

My big lunch Birthday!

2011-06-09T02:37:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not posting last week but I was busy organising a Big Lunch.

If you haven't heard of it, its a nationwide yearly event that is held on the first Sunday in June. The aim of the day is to get communities together and may be meet new people and make new friendships by encouraging street parties, picnic etc. Sounds nice doesn't it? Well when I read about it I thought what a great idea and as it just happened to fall on my Birthday I just had to arrange one.

So I asked at work (The Plough Inn, Littlethorpe - which is a lovely old village pub that serves excellent food well worth a visit if your in the area) if I could do it there. Then I set about organising who would bring what buffet food wise and everyone brought a small amount of meat for the bbq.

I also bagged a bouncy castle to keep the kids entertained, which it did very well. I'm only on there to look after my friends 2 year old - honest! I didn't do a head count but there were at least 80 people, loads of food (which was all eaten) and the weather was good. What more can you ask. Also had a little whip round for some local lads that are collecting for a skate park to be built in the village and that made just under £35. Everyone that attended has said what a fantastic time they had.

I had such a lovely birthday and received some excellent gifts, which I plan to share with you next time.

B xxx

P.s. Also did some camping in Matlock and went to see the monster trucks in the half term.

I am so chuffed with how the photos of the monster jam came out, not bad for a pretty bog standard digital camera hey? Will share more later. I bet your looking forward to that aren't you?!

A Personal (ised) Shopper

2011-05-26T01:38:00.000-07:00

I just love my new bags.

(I feel a new shop banner coming along - When I can figure out how to do it again!)

These are proving to be v. popular. I have already had orders for 8!

They are now listed in both my UK and US shops.

Theres always that worry that you wont sell that new item you have made that you think is fantastic.

I also worried about the price like I always do. But then I figure people appreciate the amount of time that goes in to making something like this. It is nice to be appreciated, of course I help by explaining that they are hand cut and sewn.

Apparently they are all the rage a moment with the tweens to take their books to school. They will definitely stand out amongst the pile of school bags.

I have finally set to making some more peg bags this week. I spent 6 hours straight (well I had the odd break) designing, cutting and sewing.

(Heres Isaac photo of me looking very excited about that!)

Which is a rarity at the mo. I'm lucky if I get 2 hours and thats normally once the kids have gone to bed.

Any how heres a sneaky peeky.

I will share the finished ones soon.

So the kids are off again next week and we are camping in Matlock this weekend and going to watch Monster trucks at Pride Park. Which I think I am more excited about than the boys.

(Isaac playing Monster Trucks with Dustbin.)

Well better go do some packing. What you up to?

Have fun!

B xxx

Theres something in the woodshed.....

2011-04-16T00:03:00.000-07:00

....... Oh its just Isaac!

Check out my lovely new woodshed.

Isn't it great? Dan made it from wood that he acquired from work that was destined for the dump. Argos are selling one similar for over £100!!!

I never realised how creative he could be! He has also made bee boxes and is currently working on a garden planter. I'll show you them another time. Hmmmm, could we join forces in some way?

Isaac was so helpful helping daddy paint it.

Sorry for the slackness lately with the blog. I just seem to have had so much going on what with easter hols, stalls and days out. Well the weather has been far to nice to be stuck inside behind the sewing machine or on the computer.

I was still a little creative -

Homemade Rhubarb and Orange Jam

Making easter eggs with Lucas

Hot cross buns (second attempt!)

New bags

New shop banner may be?

Oh and the Postcards giveaway goes to Justine! Check out her blog here

Thanks for reading,

B x

Postcards from Leicester

2011-04-07T04:24:00.000-07:00

I am being really indecisive which isn't unusual, I am always the last to choose at a resturant. The other reason I am always last is that I'm to busy jabbering to look at the menu. Any way I just can't make my mind up so want your help. In return for your help one lucky person will recieve a set of my postcards. I am wanting to have some more of my photographs made into postcards. So here are the photos.....

1. Old and new alight

2. Barbed wire

3. Sprayed bird

4. Pin pot

5. Bamboo

6. The corridor

7. Umbrella

8. The sandman (drawn by Lucas age 5)

9. Sunshine factory

10. Looks like rain

11. Turquoise

........you just need to -

1 Comment letting me know your favourite and email adress

2 Follow my blog

Closing date is 5th May 2011 and the winner will recieve a set of 10 postcards with envelopes. There are currently 3 designs available in my shop.

Also I would appreciate any comments you have about my photographs both positive and negative.

Good luck!

B xx

P.s. Just thought I would also mention that all of these photographs have been taken by me on a digital camera and have not been enhanced in any way (apart from some cropping!).

The sound of bells.......

2011-03-31T01:31:00.000-07:00

Wedding bells that is.

Oh and no not mine! If I'm honest with you I think I have blown my chances. Dan has asked me twice! The first time we had been together for about 6 months and he had clearly had to much beer. I said we should try living together first. I found out years later he dosen't remember asking me - charming.

His second attempt wasn't much better. I was heavily pregnant with Lucas my first child and he wanted to go out. I didn't! Anyway he kept going on so to shut him up I agreed. He asked me at the pub over a beer - no kneeling, no ring (not how I expect to be asked). My answer was a less than enthusiatic " I suppose so!" Which might sound harsh but a few weeks later I asked if he was getting me an engagement ring and his answer - "Do you need a ring?" Such a romantic! I have told him he needs to ask me properly, may be it will be third time lucky.

Any way, back to the point. My mum is getting married in July and she asked me to make her cards. Here they are, me and Mum are so chuffed with how they turned out. Can't wait to see the boys all dressed up as page boys - will definitly be sharing that.

B xxx

Lets do some baking baby

2011-03-21T01:46:00.000-07:00

I love to bake, cook, eat.........well anything to do with food really. Last weekend was spent baking for my sons Birthday party. To celebrate all things foody here are a few food finds that I just love.

Babushka measuring cups

I came across these beauties a few months ago and just had to have them. I can't remember where I bought mine but PLAY have them for just under a tenner - bargain! I didn't actually need them as I bought these from M and S last year -

At least they have come in handy for display purposes!

Koziol Babell cake or fruit stand

I am also loving these cake stands. They are plastic, you can take them apart and stack them in reverse and they are available in loads of great colours. They also do a baby version that you can add to the top. I'm gonna go for red as When the kitchen is finally finished it will be white with red utensils etc. I will use it as a fruit stand and obviously a cake stand on special occasions.

If you have read my older posts you will see his bday was a few weeks ago (organised as ever!).

I am a pretty good cook (hope that doesn't sound cocky) but have always struggled to bake cakes. When i say cakes I don't mean muffins or cupcakes, I can make then - easy! I reaaly struggle with big cakes. Thank you so much Delia (yes Smith - she knows her stuff) for your help and guidence. The cakes came out perfectly as I followed the recipe to the ounce.

Remember use exact measurements, tin stated in the recipe and preheat your oven, then you can't really go wrong. To think I always blamed my crappy oven, when it was just me.

Tada! The finished Hogwarts cake.

I also made some number 7 biscuits.....

...... blueberry muffins, sandwiches for the grown ups, lime and raspberry jelly for the kids (the growns enjoyed this as much as the kids!) and other party treats. The kids where so hungry after all the running around at the multisports party that it didn't last long!

I'm already thinking about when I can do my next cake so I can improve even more. May be my sister will let me do Lexi's in August but can I wait that long?

Whats cooking?

B x

Red Hot!

2011-03-17T07:10:00.000-07:00

This treasury is on fire!

1 Thrush

7 Mookah

11 Artesserae

12 Tookies

13 Beaky

14 MABONAORIGAM

15 Tsktsk

16 Farouche

I love them all but my all time favourite is the Elephant floor cushion by Mookah.

Thank you for PIGandFISH for letting me be part of such a bright and beautiful Treasury.

Pig and Fish is a 2 woman design studio featuring colorful and useful products for the home by Maine artists Deb Gill and Nanako O'Donnell. I just love their stuff. They make lamps, mirrors, key hooks and other homewares this is my fave -

Cottage - A wall mounted mail and key holder

This is such a fantastic and unique idea. I love it!

Have a fab weekend and keep your fingers crossed for sun.

B ✗

The Owl and the Pussy cat went to sea.......

2011-03-14T07:04:00.000-07:00

In a beautiful pea-green boat.

They took some honey, and plenty of money

Wrapped up in a five-pound note.

The Owl looked up to the stars above,

And sang to a small guitar,

"O lovely Pussy, O Pussy, my love,

What a beautful Pussy you are,

You are,

You are!"

What a beautiful Pussy you are!"

Pussy said to the Owl, "You elegant fowl,

How charmingly sweet you sing!

Oh, let us be married; too long we have tarried.

But what shall we do for a ring?"

They sailed away, for a year and a day,

To the land where the bong-tree grows.

And there in a wood a Piggy-wig stood,

With a ring at the end of his nose,

His nose,

With a ring at the end of his nose.

So they took it away, and married next day

By the Turkey who lives on the hill.

They dined on mince and slices of quince,

Which they ate with a runcible spoon.

And hand in hand, on the edge of the sand,

They danced by the light of the moon,

The moon,

They danced by the light of the moon.

Lucas is doing all things The Owl and Pussycat at school. He has to draw them, learn the rhyme etc.... So I decided to make him an Owl and Pussy cat in a bag especially for his class to use when learning the rhyme. I plan to make up more of these to sell at in my Folksy and Etsy shops. I got the idea from my 3 babushkas in a bag -

I have also made use of this fantastic book that I picked up at a charity shop when Lucas was tiny. I pretended to Dan that it was for him but I bought it for the Illustrations (by William Wiesner - who I must find out more about and will share when I do), it is nice that it has come in handy in another way.

Thanks for reading,

B x

P.s. I only knew the first verse!! So I have learnt something too. What have you learnt today?

Love - is it real?

2011-03-10T16:29:00.000-08:00

Over heard some ladies about 10 years older than me (I'm 32) at the work tonight talking about love. They were saying it doesn't really exist and that you think you are in love for the first 18 months and then you are just friends! I know they are all still with their partners and all have kids. I like to think I am still in love with my man (even though he may irriate me like hell some days and I'm sure I do him) and if they really think this why are they all still with their men. How would they feel if they left tomorrow? Is love real?

I remember being upset when Dan said he loved the kids more than me but kind of know what he means.

On a lighter note heres a lovely treasury from mmacdougall8 -

"A Little something for those who you love"

1 mojospastyle

2 DrikaB

3 elefint

6 Homako

8 Earmark

10 eringotz

12 Beaky

13 oiseaux

14 pleasantleyplumpknits

15 sewlola

16 beanforest

What doesn't say love like a heart shaped jam tart for Valentines day? Made with love and homemade blackberry jam just for Dan!

I have to admit the idea came from Isaac my 4 year old. wheni said we were making jam tarts he thought I said "jam hearts!"

B x

Twitwooshkas!!!

2011-03-07T14:44:00.000-08:00

How cute are these? My friend just sent me this link, thanks Emelie xx

I love these so much and even their name is brilliant - Twitwooshkas!

A brilliant twist on the much loved Matryoska.

C u Thurs!

B x

Blue and Navy....

2011-03-03T01:23:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful treasury by Yipestoo - Thanks x

1 Sknights

2 Artof the Moment

3 PrettyLittleThieves

11 GalleryByHarvestGold

12 Jenny4YourThoughts

13 TastesOrangey

14 BiojouxRouge

15 TaylorArts

16 Beaky

My fav has to be the peace bowl by Gallery for Harvest Gold because it would look great in my dining room (not that it is anywhere near finished but it will eventually be teal and the darker shade of green) for keys and other niknaks. It also makes me think of the places in the world that could do with a little Peace!

Which is your favourite and why?

Bye for now, I will be back very soon with more new bits and bobs.

Peace,

B x

What! No! Really?

2011-03-02T04:45:00.000-08:00

Yes it is true my little boy Lucas turned 7 today. I still can't believe it and it has gone by so fast. There were some hard times and at times these seemed to out weigh the good. It was so worth it!

I am so proud of the boy that he is and looking forward to seeing the man he will become. He lights up the room with his smile, he has so much energy (constantly going 100 mph! Well until it comes to homework that is.), is so kind (would hate to hurt anyones feelings), sensative (which is both good and bad, trust me I know) and just a complete star.

Happy Birthday Lucas!

B x

This evening we will be mostly making up his new Lego sets - yay!

Oh and I will be back tomorrow, the last 2 weeks have been a bit hectic!

Also forgot to tell you Lucas got an outstanding school report. I even had a little blub (cos I was so proud!), I seem to cry at almost anything these days - even got a little choked writing this.

Parenthood

2011-02-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

Parenthood is the hardest thing you will do in your life but also by far the most rewarding. I love the Steve Martin film so much it really should be a classic. If you are a parent and haven't seen it, you must! From trying to take photos to kids dressing up naked but for a cowboy hat and holster. It is hilarious and you should own a copy for when you have had a trying day with the kids.

The reason I was thinking about this film is because I have a parents evening for my 6 year old tonight and I am very nervous. His last parents eve was pretty upsetting, I ended up blubbing! I don't really agree with the way they grade the kids at such a young age and am not bothered about him being the top of the class. What really upset me was that he got D for both effort and attitude. I know that he has improved as he got an achievement award recently for having improved so much. I can't help being nervous though. I am just hoping if I cry this time they will be tears of joy.

I was watching clips of the film Parenthood this morning and found out (I am a little slow when it comes to new TV shows) that NBC have done an adaptation of the 1989 film. The first season is now on DVD and you can watch the episodes here. I hope its good! Sounds like it should be, does any one know when it will air in the UK? Or have I missed it?

NBC Parenthood

Another plus is that Peter (Eye candy) Krause from Six Feet Under is in it.

Wish me luck!

B x

Babushka Love

2011-02-09T00:19:00.000-08:00

It is pretty clear that I love them.......

.......but so does B-side Metalworks.

Which is your favourite? I think mine has to be the twilight owls.

Thanks for the treasury!!

B-side makes some beautiful personalised jewellery and some fantastic wire work -

Perfect for your valentine

❤

See you again tomorrow ,

B xxx

Owls, Gnomes, Babushkas - Oh my!

2011-02-03T01:16:00.000-08:00

Ok so its time to tell you about some of my new handmade goodies. I have been trying to come up with an owl design for some time. So on a cold January evening I felt inspired to get out my pencil and sketch pad. Isn't it funny? Some days you can draw and draw and draw some more but you just can't come up with that great design you are looking for. Then on other days it just appears on the paper with very little effort. That winters evening was definitely the latter - yippeeee!

So excited was I that I had all the felt cut out and was playing around with ribbons, buttons and fabrics. I can often be found doing this for no other reason than I like looking at them, sorting them, eating them..... Well may be not eating them but you've got to admit some of these buttons look good enough to eat.

This one would make a perfect pincushion.

Hang them by the fire - Not to close though, I don't want be responsible for anybodys house burning down!

Pop one in your underwear drawer for nice fresh undies.

Carry one in your hangbag and wip it out and take a big sniff when the kids are driving you potty.

Hang in your wardrobe to keep moths at bay.

Oh and remember I am always happy to make some with out lavender, I know not everyone loves lavender like I do.

I don't really have much to say about this except that I love gnomes! Not enough to have a garden full, enough to make a Gnomey brooch . I do think they are cute and cheerful and they make me smile.

What silly things make you smile?

Lastly my babushka purses. I made a few of these last year and found them a real pain to make. I realised I was going about it the wrong way and now they are a breeze. I really, really love these and hope you do to.

I use mine to carry my business cards, you can get at least 20 (yes I have counted!) in it.

Think thats enough from me. Loads to do and I'm off to London for the weekend with the girls so really should do some ironing and packing. Child free weekend - Yay! I love them but I love time away from them.

Thanks for reading,

B x

Three in one!

2011-02-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

Just got in from work at the pub to discover this! I'm in one treasury 3 times!

Gotta love the babushka.

Thanks Pepperpi xx Loving your.............................

OWLS!

I'll be back tomorrow with some owls of my own.

B xxx

The beauty of colours

2011-01-31T08:46:00.000-08:00

Heres another treasury list for you.

Isn't it beautiful?

Check out the treasury here

Treasury list is by kfdesigns who sells some beautiful jewellery, I epecially like this

Chunky Turquoise bracelet

Thank you kfdesigns x

we♥it

2011-01-29T03:54:00.000-08:00

In need of some......

I found this fantastic site yesterday called we♥it.

Its basically a place to store all the images you like in one place for endless inspiration.

When you register you get a widget type thingy that you drag and drop to your tool bar. Then any time find an image you like you flick on it and then on the image and tada!

it!

Kiss

The new coat

2011-01-27T01:33:00.000-08:00

So I have been searching for a really warm coat for months and had to resort to borrowing my pregnant friend Lucys coat. Well she wasn't going to fit in it! Heres the coat -

Available @ YESSTYLE.com

... and heres a slightly blurry photo of me in the coat. Its so lovely and cuddly the boys keep knicking it and using it as a blanket.

That was the day a few weeks ago when I asked Isaac

"What would you like to do today?"

Isaac "Have a picnic"

"OK!"

Well the sun was out who cares if it January, a picnic at the park we had. It was great fun until I split my trousers trying to get on the death slide!! Note to self - Skinny jeans and fun at the park do Not mix. Luckily my coat covered it!

This is the hat that I made Scarlet. Yes you guessed it Lucys (FOURTH!!!!!!!!) baby has now arrived and she is beautiful. Lucy got her coat back just in time.

Til next Thurs - I want to share a few new products with you.

B xxx

Today Something Wonderful Will Happen!

2011-01-24T06:31:00.000-08:00

I just couldn't wait until Thursday to share this! Should that be two wonderful things?

First I spotted my scarf on the Folksy front page -

I was also happy to see Inkmeup there with her little brown wrens.

I bought one of the lavender cats to give as a Christmas pressie for a cat lover, it was so cute and my friend loved it. She has a selection of lavender bags, notebooks, and prints all featuring her beautiful illustrations.

Also got a lovely mail to say I was in an Etsy treasury -

ZionShore

This Fresh Team Treasury was created with at least one brand new fresh listing on Etsy.
You do not need to be a member of our team for us to consider featuring your new item in a beautiful collection. If you have a fresh brand new item, please follow the link below and drop off your brand new items anytime:

Etsy forum thread

Just thought this was such a lovely idea for a treasury and urge any one who sells on etsy and has a new project click on the link above. I'm gonna post my lavender owls on there. Be sure to pop in on ZionShores shop while your there which sells beautiful handmade gemstone jewellery.

Thanks for reading, speak Thurs

B x

I owe you a huge apology!

2011-01-20T08:58:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Firstly Happy New Year and secondly sorry It has been so long. I feel I need to apologise for completely falling off of the Blogoshere.

I would undo it if I could! Cute print available from Etsy by teconlene, there are lots more cute prints and i think you should go take a look.

I am how ever happy to see I still have some followers - probably because you just didn't get round to deleting me. Any way I hope you accept the apology and I have decided to make it my goal this year to post every Thursday.

B xxx

P.s. I have lots of to tell you and fantastic finds that I want to share with you guys. I can't wait to tell you about my new coat!

Its been a while!

2010-02-12T15:03:00.000-08:00

Gosh! I didn't realise it had been so long. Well I have been meaning to get back into this but in the second half of last year I really felt I had to take a bit of a step back. I felt like Beaky was taking over my life a bit and that I was neglecting my man, kids and friends.

I have a little more time for it now so am working on batches of things and trying to get the haberdashery shop back on track. I hope you haven't all forgotten about me.

I'd like to wish you all a very Happy New Year even though I know its not that new now.

I plan to be back soon! xxx

P.s. I'd love to hear what you've been up to.

Its been a while.....

2009-05-14T12:12:00.000-07:00

A few things have happened since my last post. I have had my first, well first 3 sales in Beakyberdashery.

I have treated myself to a pincushion ring from Art Nest. Its fab I love it and is is great when sewing little projects like my babushka dolls.

I have been placing a button order for an age, but I finally decided on the buttons to order and they have arrived! I love them! They are so bright and funky, I want to sew them to everything. Not sure the boys woulds appreciate that though. These are just a few of them, pop over to Beakyberdashery to see more.

I also finally got all 36 dolls made and sent off, then it was the turn of the Jute bag! I have had an order for 5 of these and a few of the big ones too. Isn't it funny how you seem to have runs on things. I have two left to finish today.

We have all had a crappy cold in the Beaky household (hoping its not swine flu!!!). I'm finding it so hard to concentrate on anything. Ok I'm off to start preparing the dinner - Thai fish curry!

Oh and we are getting new windows and a door fitted on Monday, wish me luck!

Enjoy the rest of the weekend,

B x

A ray of sunshine on a wet Monday morning.

2009-04-29T01:22:00.000-07:00

I love it! It cheered me up no end on a wet and windy morning. This is my Pay it forward gift from Emma at Stitching magpie.

Thank you Emma its fab! I love the watering can button (I have been looking at getting some of these for Beakberdashery ) and the coordinating gift bag too. I will definitely be reusing it, may be for one of my PIF gifts. I am hoping to get my own PIF gifts ready over the next few weeks, once I have made all 36 of my lavender dolls that are currently on order. They are going like hot cakes at the mo.

I have already hung it on the fireplace, if I had a potting shed I would hang it in there. I dream of having a potting shed one day, oh and a huge green house. I imagine it to be like this -

Yes, that is Kew Gardens! Well a girl can dream can't she.

I have been meaning to show you some of the family photo shoot piccies. We have been meaning to have some done for a while, so when I won a voucher in a charity raffle it seemed like the perfect opportunity.

The ones of the boys came out really nicely, however the ones of me and Dan were all really cheesy. Why do they make you pose in such silly ways. For one particular photo the photographer had me and Dan laying on our stomachs with noses touching. Lets just say this wasn't the best idea as we both have fair sized conks!

Any way better get back to the crochet, need to get it finished to mail today.

B x

A haberdashery of sorts

2009-04-23T13:26:00.000-07:00

Tonight I have been working on my new etsy shop. I have been wanting to do this for some time. Its just finding the time. Heres the new banner, I am really pleased with how it turned out.

I have called it Beakyberdashery as it is a haberdashery of sorts. I will be selling lots of bright and fun supplies for crafts. Here are just some of the buttons I will be selling -

...and heres some more -

There will be new and vintage supplies available including this gorgeous vintage embroidered ribbon which is currently available in my other etsy shop Beaky.

I hope to start listing over the next few days. I will also have fabric, buckles, bags and will be destashing lots of beads and other bits and bobs too.

B x

The cutest little teacup ride.....

2009-04-21T02:56:00.000-07:00

How cute is this? I didn't pay for a ride but thought I should put Isaac in it or I might look a little loopy photographing a ride with no child in. Isaac clearly isn't impressed!

The model village

The boys and the Thomas'! We got the little Thomas from a grabby machine, I know they are a con but the boys love watching you have a go. Then every now and then you get lucky, Isaac is so chuffed as you can see.

Writing our names in the sand. It must be easier writing your name with a finger than with a pencil, this is Lucas' best writing ever.

Sausage and chips any one? Well you can't go to the seaside and not visit the chip shop. Lucas can highly recommend then - he ate the lot! Dan and I had Fish and chips of course but don't think any one wants to see us eating.

The beach - the boys playing in the sand.

We only went for 2 days but still had lots of fun in Skeg. It was still a little chilly but at least it was dry and the sun made an appearance on the second day too. Yay!

B x

You can still pay it forward

2009-04-16T13:54:00.000-07:00

Just a little post to say its not to late if you want to join in the gift giving heres how -

Here are the blogs of the three people who will be recieving handmade gifts from me -

The Dotty One - You must see her lovely plushies monsters they are fab!

Padmade - She bakes yummy cakes!

Acardaday - What a wonderful idea to send a card a day! Some are sent just because.

Go pop over to their blogs and leave a comment, you can read my earlier blog here for more info.

B x

Fun, fun, fun!

2009-04-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

As promised the Easter photos -

Isaac enjoying a hot cross bun!

Lucas mixing the chocolate and shreddied wheat for the chocolate birds nests.

Lucas spoons in the mixture and Isaac finishes with the mini eggs. Granny giving some words of encouragement.

Ta da! The finished nests, didn't they do a good job? They were so yummy and as we made them on Grandmas Birthday we thought it only right to treat her to a few along with a meal at Zizi's.

Also better late than never some photos from my trip to London with the girls. Emma, Pippa and me waiting for the tube - we had to do something to pass the time. Being goofy seem liked a good idea. Pippa is such a poser! I think she spends hours practicing in the mirror. I took the photo so I assume that is my concentration face.

On public transport on the way to Wagamama's.

At Wagamama's - yum! This is one of my fav places to eat, if you haven't tried it you need to.

I Have the whole weekend in pictures, but didn't want to bore you with them all. I was planning on putting a DVD together. I have photos of the front door, Lindsay answering the door.... you get the picture.

Off to Skeg in the morning, I just hope the weather at least stays dry.

B x

Pay It Forward.....

2009-04-12T15:38:00.000-07:00

I have joined this thing called pay it forward. For those of you who don't know, this is how it works - the first three people to leave a comment will receive a fab hand made gift from me!

All you have to do is leave a comment. Once you have left your comment do a "pay it forward post" as soon as you can. Then continue the gift giving to the first three people to comment on your blog. I've signed up for one on Emma's blog.

Its such a great idea.

B x

Face-lift complete!! Well probably

2009-04-12T12:12:00.001-07:00

I wish I wasn't so god damn indecisive! Well this is what I have come up with, after lots and lots (as I said I am indecisive) of swapping and changing. I think I may have to update my banner and as I feel it could coordinate better. I may also play with the text colour some more.

Well what do you think? I'd love to know. Good or bad it all helps. I hope to post the pics of London and the boys enjoying Easter tomorrow, then its off to Skeg for a few days.

B x

Having a face-lift......

2009-04-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

... hope to bring you a better looking blog soon. Time for bed now though.

Nighty night!

B xxx

Bunting for boys!

2009-04-09T05:34:00.000-07:00

As people said they liked the idea, would stock it in their shop and my eldest said he would like some for his room. Here it is! It is so bright and cheerful - look how well it goes with the boys room.

When I showed it to Isaac my 2 year old he said "Wow!". I think that means he likes it. Whats not to like? Robots, lightning flashes, red, turquoise......

I have listed it in the Etsy shop already and will pop it in the Folksy shop later today.

I'll write again in a few days, I have some fab Easter photos of the boys to share with you. Thank you so much for all your lovely comments, I love reading them and hearing what you guys think. Wishing you all a wonderful and chocolate filled Easter.

B x

Yippee! I got an award, now its your turn

2009-04-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much Bairbre Aine for giving me this award, go take a look at her fab blog

A Lemonade Award is given to bloggers that you feel show a positive attitude and/or gratitude. Here's how it works:

1.Put the logo on your blog or post (check)

2.Nominate at least 10 blogs that show great Gratitude and/or Attitude. (check)

3.Be sure to list and link your nominees within your post. (ohhh gonna try)

4.Let them know they have received this award by leaving a comment on their blog.

5.Nominate your favorites and link to your post.

Ok, here are my 10 who I feel show much gratitude, great positive attitude and just inspire the heck out of me!

http://bexsbuttons.blogspot.com/

http://blackberrycrafts.typepad.com/

http://emmallamb.blogspot.com/

http://frutejuce.blogspot.com/

http://kitschycoo.blogspot.com/

http://laurenceramics.blogspot.com/

http://moneycantbuytaste.blogspot.com/

http://nickynackynoodesigns.blogspot.com/

http://thirtyfiveflowers.blogspot.com/

http://allsorts.typepad.com/

Phew that is harder than you think, to just pick 10! There are more but I have tried to choose people who may not have had an award before. I'm sure most of you have, if so you are modist and aren't advertising the fact.

Please go and check out these blogs they are all well worth the read. Thank you all for blogging, please don't stop.

B x

Babushka bunting

2009-03-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

This idea just popped in to my head the other day. I can't believe I didn't think of it before! Most of my ideas get written down and can take ages for me to get around to. It alreday available to buy here.

I just couldn't wait with this one and made it on Thursday night while Dan was at the pub. I should have been making some of my crocheted bunting for a special order but I figured I can make that on Sunday evening.

I machine appliqued the dolls, well I thought it was about time I used some of the many functions on my embroidery machine. I have only really used it for straight and zigzag stitch.

Hmmmmm, I wonder if the boys will let me hang some of this around the house. Probably - if I can make some with robots on it instead (thats another idea to add to the list).

Oh, and I wanted to show you this too. My little cupcake number! I made this for my friends daughter who was two on Thursday. I plan to make more after she has test ran it for me. I also bought her a Fifi backpack which she has decided she wants to take everywhere with her.

Also I forgot to say in my last blog that my trip to London with the girls was lots and lots of fun. It was so great catching up and having a whole weekend together. I will post some piccies from my trip soon.

B x

I have written my first pattern!

2009-03-25T06:28:00.000-07:00

My Sir Lucas knight hat pattern is finally ready and for sale. It has taken a lot longer than I expected, I thought I could just type up my notes but I wanted to make sure it was just right. I have to admit I have had a little help with it from Emma Lamb. Who very kindly checked the pattern and gave me some very helpful suggestions.

I only emailed her the pattern last Wednesday and I got an email back on Monday to say she had finished it. The photograph below shows how she got on - brilliantly! I also love the fact that the hat is black very Darth Vader-esque. I may have to make a black one for my shop.

Talking of shops here are some photos from my Charity shop - shopping spree last week.

Such a cute hat with sparkles running throught it, just £2 and brand new.

Buttons on shoes!!! Again brand new and only £3.

Two pairs of curtains and 2 vintage pillow cases - £2.50

A Sterling silver bracelet for only £1.25

Lastly how could I leave this Spiderman suit when it was only £3? Definitely worth it, look how happy he is.

Back to my patterns, I am now working on writing up my Molly hat pattern. Oh, and I have a fab bunting idea that I want to try out too. I'll show you the results of that soon.

B x

Is it to late to give a Christmas present in March?

2009-03-20T08:03:00.000-07:00

I know its bad! I hope she will think they were worth the wait. They are for my friend Lindsay who lives in London (I'm in Leicester). We haven't seen each other since Christmas, however I am staying over for the weekend. Yipppee! There will be four of us and we are having a girlie night in tonight and hopefully hitting the town tomorrow night. I have found a 2 for 1 offer for

Wagamama, which I haven't told them about yet.

I love this yarn and have made countless pairs of socks and mitts with it. I must remember to make a pair of these for me before I run out of yarn or it is discontiued - if it hasn't been already!

You can just see my bag in the background of the photo above. I am all packed and ready to go, just enough time for a play in the park in the gorgeous sunshine.

Before I go I'd like to say thanks to Lynsey (not the one from London) for my yankee wax melt. She sent me one in the post to try and now my house smells all lemony (If that is a word) and fresh. Lyns, your parcel actually ended up in a neighbours (she was in The Apprentice) garden. Luckily she found it and brought it around.

I will be back from London on Sunday afternoon to spend the rest of Mothers Day with the boys. Happy Mothers Day to all you Mums and make sure you get lots of chocolate and breakfast in bed. I had better go and meet the boys at the park.

B x

For me, a Fair, Five, Fun, Food and Flashdance!

2009-03-11T07:39:00.000-07:00

Last week was dominated by the letter F!! Here is the blanket I am making FOR ME, its not very often I make something for myself. I bought lots of this Rowan cotton rope a few weeks ago as it was reduced from £4.49 per 50g ball to just 99p. I just had to buy some - 18 balls to be precise. Most of those will be used for this project.

I love the wave stitch and the rainbow of colours and can't wait to finish it so I can start using it.

This is how my stall looked on Saturday at the Mothers Day craft FAIR I did. I was opposite the entrance which was fab as everyone saw me first. I had a really good day and met some lovely people.

Lucas was FIVE last week, I can't believe it. Where did the time go? I am so proud of him. He has just been with Dan to spend his £45 birthday money and come back with a set of Ben 10 figures, and a tranformer for himself and a Thomas train for his little bro Isaac. It was all his own idea he said this morning I want to buy Isaac a Thomas train so he doesn't cry. I nearly cried!

FUN - Three birthday parties including Lucas's and a Gymnastics Party. How much fun do those foam chips look? I really, really wanted to have a go - I had to keep reminding myself I am a grown up.

FUN - Ten pin bowling

Not so much FUN - Isaac has just let go of his balloon, he insisted he didn't need it tying around his wrist.

FOOD - Mountains of party food, birthday cake and a Pizza hut.

Oh and I won two tickets for FLASHDANCE and a preshow meal. I'm not much of a Theatre goer and have only been to one show before. Saying that Dan and I really enjoyed it and will definitely go and see another show soon.

B x

Another Spring blog!!

2009-03-05T08:31:00.000-08:00

I think we have a right to be excited about the fact that spring is approaching. The mornings getting lighter, the weather getting warmer, spring flowers growing (especially Daffodils)....

To celebrate the coming of spring I have designed a new brooch. I wanted to make Daffs last spring but I always have a very long to do list and very little time to do it in.

I am so please with the way these have turned out and have been getting some nice comments when I have worn mine. I am selling them for £5 including postage and I will be donating £1 from each one sold this month to Macmillan Cancer Support .

Also I have been meaning to write about the oil burner that I bought from Lauren Ceramics on Folksy. I bought it for Dan for Valentines day and he really likes it, it has been used loads already. Lauren even sent some cinnamon oil with it which is lush but does make crave cakes and biscuits.

Whats next? I am finally writing up some of my knitting and crochet designs into patterns. As I am new to this I will be looking for some one to check my patterns. I will do a seperate blog for this soon but if you are interested please leave me a comment.

A badge in a little crocheted jacket!

2009-02-26T05:38:00.001-08:00

Yay! I have finally got around to making some of these. I had this idea a little while ago and have been meaning to try it out. They came out better than I thought they would.

These are great fun to make, choosing colour combinations to using buttons. Most of these will be one of a kind as I love using vintage buttons and coming up with different designs. This is one of my favourites -

There will be a selection of these available at The Gift Tree and both my Etsy and Folksy shops.

The cards are made from some fab postcards I found, I am a sucker for stationary. When I bought them I didn't know what I would use them for. Now that I do I wish I had bought more.

I'm sure I will be making more of these soon, after I have made a few of my new crocheted flower brooches. Another idea I have been toying with for a while. I will blog about these soon.

B x

Oh such cute brooches

2009-02-20T15:12:00.001-08:00

How cute are these brooches? I ordered them for a craft fair I am doing for Mothers day from Sophie Isobel Designs. She has a lovely shop on etsy and an equally lovely blog. Until Feb 23rd all proceeds from sales in her shop will go to the Red Cross for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal in Australia. What a generous thing to do.

They came nicely wrapped and tied with ribbon. Sorry I didn't get photos of that as I was so excited that I ripped them open with out thinking. But they still look like this!

Every one is handmade and one of a kind.

I asked Sophie to make one especially for me, but when they arrived I changed my mind.This is one of my favourites.

But this is the one I decided to keep and it is now on my new spring jacket.

Well the weather is starting to get warmer, isn't it? Oh and the craft fair is at Burbage Millennium Hall, Leicestershire on Sat 7th March in case you are interested.

B x

Flapper girl or red Indian?

2009-02-16T00:22:00.000-08:00

I work in the local pub at the bottom of my road and the landlady has a bit of a thing for dressing up. A few weeks ago I dressed up as a motown Diva for their Motown Disco. I wore a long gold dress, gold shoes, big sunglasses and to finish off the outfit a black afro wig. Thankfully batteries were flat or cameras were forgotten so their is no photographic evidence - I don't think it was a good look for me.

I definitely prefer the flapper girl look, the night this time was Gangsters and Mols - The Valentines Massacre. I made the headband with a feather from my local craft shop and some elastic and a gem I had in my stash. A few of the regulars said I looked more like a Red Indian than a 1920s Mol.

The dress was from a charity shop, hurray for charity shops!

The tights though were my best buy, from Topshop from their sale rail. I was really lucky with these they just caught my eye as I was leaving the shop and they are the same colour as the feather. I love these tights and they definitely need to be worn again.

Dress : £3

Tights £1

Feather : 50p

A great night was had by all the pub was packed which is quite a feat at the mo.

B x

I saw them and had to buy them!

2009-02-13T06:24:00.000-08:00

I love getting parcels even when I know what is coming. I get all excited like a child and tear them open the minute they arrive. I got these today aren't they just wonderful? I saw them and just had to buy them, I knew they would be great for put some crafty bits and bobs in.

As you can see they are! These gorgeous felt beads are from Kirsty, the lovely lady behind Paperfish. She has a shop a few shops on Etsy and one so far on Folksy (I'm sure there will be more). I am going to be making these in to simple little stretchy bracelets as they sell really well when I do craft fairs.

I also recieved my jute bags, these have been popular and I have some new designs planned.

I have already been busy and finished one of the new bags, its a new colour too. I love these bright Dala horses. These will also be available with a red, yellow or blue horse.

With my jutes came my new packing bags. I usually buy packs from one of the many pound shops in Leicester, but the last time I tried I couldn't find them anywhere. It worked out cheaper to buy in bulk and they are eco friendly.

With a choice of black white or pink, it had to be pink.

B x

For Charity, mate!

2009-02-10T02:29:00.000-08:00

Just letting you know that members of the Crafteroo Forum have come together and have a Comic Relief shop. This is on folksy and is selling handmade items and all proceeds from their sale will be going to Comic Relief. If you would like to join in click here.

I have donated two of my Lavender dolls.

I wanted to add a screenshot of the page but just can't figure out how to do this. I have a Mac if any one knows and wants to share, that would be great. B x

Hello doll face!

2009-02-08T05:47:00.000-08:00

I have decided I needed to write about my babushka dolls, they seem to be very popular at the moment. I cut out enough to make 100 and still found it wasn't enough. Heres a pile ready to be sewn.

I love making these little dolls they are so bright and lovely and they make me smile. Some have Lavender in so stuffing them is very relaxing. My boys always get really excited by them and always want to play with them. So much so that I have given them one each, with lavender of course.

I had to take lots of photos of the dolls to use on Etsy and Folksy. I think they look great all lined up like this.

I even think they look cute all packed up, even though it feels a little cruel to wrap them in plastic! Yes, i know they're not real. I have one as a pincushion and I can't bring myself to put pins in her face.

Here is a photo kindly sent by Emma of my dolls hanging in her shop White Doll Arts

she also has a shop on Etsy

Where she sells pottery if you hadn't guessed.

Phew they are keeping me busy and I still have outstanding orders for 20ish. B x

Snowing again! Yay!

2009-02-05T02:28:00.000-08:00

Ok so I am a little slow with the snow photos. Here is my eldest Lucas on Tuesday at the park where we had lots of fun in the snow.

This is Isaac, jumping off snow mountain. Well its more like a mound really, but we do like to use our imagination.

The snow man, I must admit we cheated some one else had made a giant snow ball and we just added a head.

Lucas giving the snowman some arms .Yes, they are a little on the small side but we didn't tell him that. After all he went to the effort of hunting for sticks and was so proud of himself.

The hat and scarf would not be my choice but were kindly loned by one of Lucas' friends. I love this photo all the boys together, mine are the two in the middle.

There has been even more snow today! Another trip to the park on the way how from school, I think and more photos too!

B x

Mirror, Mirror.....

2009-02-03T01:00:00.000-08:00

Wow! I can't believe my luck, my bunting was featured in the Mirror last Thursday (Jan 29th).

Here is the full page, its such a lovely photo too. I had to send my bunting off for a photo shot, after which it was kindly returned to me. I was told it would be in on the 22nd so have been pestering my local shop every day for a peek at the paper.

I also had to add this photo of the robot Lucas (Age 4) made. It is Burn:e from Wall:e. I think it is fab, he is so imaginative with his Lego.

Some bunting in progress, I have had a few orders thanks to the publicity.

Want to check out my workspace? The very talented Lauren will be featuring some piccies on her blog this week. I plan to blog about her and something I have recently purchased from her shop. It is a gift for a special someone.

Bye for now, B x

Crockery-tastic

2009-01-30T08:45:00.000-08:00

Ok so I wanted to join in the crockery showing. I store my needles in my midwinter coffee pot bought from ebay. Used once as a teapot and the tea stained the crazing on it so it was demoted to a needle holder. Also my Petra Boase mug that I dearnt use for fear of breaking.

More mid winter the top of the teapot and I have 6 of these cups and saucers but they are far to small to use. I used to have dinner plates but could never find any bowls to match. After many years of using a mismatching dinner service I have replaced them with a Habitat one. We bought it last Christmas with vouchers we asked for.
I love these, bought at a car boot for not very much. The stall holder only had these two and my birthday is in June and the mans (Dan) is in November. They had to be purchased.
Oh and how cute are these? There are four children in our family all with unusual names - Leon, Jordan, Sharna and Bonita. Growing up you couldn't get anything with your name on, until my mum found someone making these. I was so chuffed when I was given these recently.
Well thats enough crockery for one day. Hope you have enjoyed mine and their stories.

B x

Buttons finally!

2009-01-26T08:08:00.000-08:00

Finally my new buttons have arrived. I have been waiting patiently for these, so have a few customers - oooppps! They will be in the my shop soon. I am still missing the black and white, but I told my supplier to just include them in my next order. I think they look fab here on Isaac's nuirsery painting.

All ready to go!

Out with the old overlocker....

and in with the new!

I haven't even had it out of the box yet, just haven't had the time what with bunting and doll orders. I have never managed to get the old one working properly. I will let you know how I get on soon. Today was a good day as I have managed to find dresses for fancy dress nights at the pub. They are being washed as I write and I will give you a peek soon.

B x

Hunting for Bunting!

2009-01-18T08:33:00.000-08:00

Ok so it been a while. I choose today to write as my bunting has been featured in the Sunday Times, Style magazine! This is the face I pulled when I saw it.

I was told it might be in but there was no guarantee. I am so excited and chuffed (I was the photographer too).

All thats left to say is a big "THANK YOU" to Alison at www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk for putting me forward.

I promise not to leave it so long next time. xx

A Roaring Success!

2008-10-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

I can not tell you how nervous I was when setting up my wares on the day of my Yummy Mummy craft and gift fair. As I had never organised anything like this before I couldn't be sure any one would turn up. To my amazement we were really busy and managed to raise 330 GBP for Clic Sargent, which I think is truely fantastic. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that got involved in this event for making it a very enjoyable and successful fair.

I also had a really good day as you can see from my depleted stall. I forgot to take the photos before the fair started.

More stalls including Hedgerow with their yummy chutneys, dips and jellies.

The arts and crafts table! It was busy earlier before they discovered the boucey castle out back.

The boucey castle! I managed to snag this at the last minute (well the evening before) as a little birdie told me the weather would be fab. Thats my 4 year old in the blue t-shirt having a good old bounce. Cheers Rob!

Face painting anyone?

After all that everyone enjoyed a much needed sit down with a cup of tea and a slice of cake. Theres the lovely Joan hiding her face behind her tea cup. She worked so hard and sold masses of raffle tickets. Over on the left we have Phoenix trading which is Debbies stall. Debbie is the lovely lady who had the idea to do something for Yummy Mummy week and who ran this fair with me. We have decided we will do another next year for another charity - any ideas?

Yummy Mummy Charity Fair

2008-09-10T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am organising a charity craft and gift fair which takes place on 20th September @ Littlethorpe village hall, Leicestershire. It is being held as part of Yummy Mummy week which runs from the 20th-28th of September in aid of CLIC Sargent a charity that raises money for the care of children with cancer.

The stalls will be selling accessories, bags, books, cakes, chocolates, chutneys, jewellery, massages, refreshments, toys, treatments and lots more. There is a list of some of the stall holders on the right --->

We are also holding a raffle with prizes donated by stall holders and other local businesses. For the kids we have colouring in and a face painter.

If you would like to make a donation, take part or just want more info here is the official website-

http://www.yummymummy.org.uk/

Scarflette season has begun.

2008-09-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

Ok so I have been meaning to start writing here for over a year. Today on a cold and wet Saturday that also happens to be my sons 2nd birthday ( hes having a nap!) I have decided to make my debute. It looks like summer is over and I have started listing my new collection of winter warmers.

I am going to be bringing you some bright eighties inspired Scarflettes like this one -

and some funky mitts like these -

I am also working on some new hats with chunky brooches like this one -

The birthday boy is awake so we are going for pizza. I will be back in a few days to give you details of a Charity event I am organising this month.