Apple and Tangerine

Rag rug action

2012-01-24T02:45:00.003+11:00

Aren't blog archives interesting...I knew I hadn't made much progress on my rag rug for awhile...I flicked back to have a bit of a look (which is where those labels, which I haven't really ever got into the habit of using, would come in really handy)- anyway I was surprised to see that this picture is ummm, rather similar to the one below, taken tonight...oops (while it may not be obvious to the naked eye, there has been a little more plaiting action happen!). I was also surprised to see that I wrote the post nearly a year ago- 28th January 2011. Like I said, oops!

What would move 'one' forward on a project that has been met with such apathy? Why, solidarity, of course.

So there I am, reading Jodie's news the other day when I see a lovely picture at the bottom of her blog post, a rag rug- those fond 'rag rug love' feelings make me smile and think of my own poor neglected pile of raggy braids...before I know it, Jodie has declared not only is she making one, but she's discovered heaps of others are keen too and all of a sudden I've been caught up in the whirlwind of a 'rag rug along'.

Actually, that's not strictly true- my response has been far from whirl wind like, but I tell you, some of these other rag ruggers, well, they get things done. There is talk of techniques, methods, ripping or cutting, ironing or folding (which may be where I realised sometimes instructions might be useful). Not just talk either-action (eg, this one involves a crochet hook, and this one, an amazing needle). Having seen these and the progress that's been made, I think that my naive idea of making a big plait and sewing it together may not be the wisest, strongest, easiest, most effective method. I will have to reconsider my rag rug options!

I am looking forward to see lots of rag rugs. So far mine has got a fair bit of white in it, which is an old sheet, the green is a dress of my grandma's (at least, I think that's where it came from). I really quite like the 'Little House on the Prairie'-ness of it all.

It's still school holidays here for another week and abit and we have been enjoying some pretty nice family times, including the odd board game..or twenty!
I tell you what, this was the best 50 cents I have spent in awhile- thank you op shop- "The Game of Life" (I may have been the happiest to find this because it's one of those- 'oh, I really wanted that when I was a kid' games, involving abit of nostalgia!).

I did make a comment during the game that it's actually not that much like my life, and I don't necessarily agree with the title- there are no squares saying 'your peach tree is loaded and the fruit are going to rot if you don't stop and pick them- miss a turn", or "you have got up early and fed the pigs, move forward 2 spaces". And then, within a few quick spins, I had had twin girls, followed by another baby girl, which made me think, oh, well, it does bear some vague resemblance to at least bits of some peoples lives!

If you are super observant (or have amazing eyes) you might notice the dvd I borrowed from the library- that was inspired by Lara (it's North and South, I also borrowed Pride and Prejudice).
Can you guess where I was sitting? See that hooking action on 'screen right', yep, still enamoured with learning to crochet.

She's got it, yeah baby, she's got it!

2012-01-19T11:44:00.001+11:00

If you are over the age of...what? say, 37 (?), you might be busting out some neat Bananarama moves after reading that title...well, join me as I dance around celebrating the fact that, however late I might be, I am finally coming to the granny square party. There are a few technical issues to sort out (namely starting a new row, changing colour & reading instructions) but that's neither here nor there...at least I am finally on the right track. Now, I was warned that it might be addictive...so see ya later...that hook is whispering my name

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Project 5 and some little sewing

2012-01-17T14:16:00.004+11:00

This little dress was started at Sewjourn, which feels like AGES age, it was finished shortly after but I haven't blogged about it because I wanted to wait till I met the recipient (Isabel), and gave it to her (well, her mother, really) before I blogged about it. Isobel flew over the Pacific for a few weeks in December, I met her briefly and had a cuddle- she's very lovely (I meant to ask her mum if I can put a photo of her up here, but haven't yet- I will edit this to add one once I have spoken to Nat).

I really enjoyed choosing the fabric for this little Oliver and S "Ice Cream Social Dress". When I was in America, I stayed with Natasha for a few days and she took me to Mood in New York (now there's a store to be awe struck and overwhelmed by, it was pretty amazing). Nat likes fabric. I know she likes orange, and I wanted to include some of me in it- so it was the apples in tangerine, and in green -funny that you can have apples in tangerine and lime, really, huh. How appropriate that the fabric range it comes from is called 'Farmers Market' (designed by Sandi Henderson).
I asked Nat's sister, Amy what colours Nat likes and she said something like 'vintagey type hues'- or that's what I took it as. So the floral and the pocket fabric completed the fabric choosing- and I forget what range either of those are from.
The other thing I made for little Izzy is project 5 from the Tanya and Nicole project- I didn't take a photo of it- oops. but Nikki did, it's over here. Nikki was generous with her interfacing knowledge- and it was SO GOOD to see her get her hands onto it and fold, bend, squash etc to see how the different interfacings responded (cause I like that inexact, it depends how it feels kind of style). That was where I first made up a bit of a swatch pack for my different interfacings...and a new appreciation took hold (yep, I want to be the interfacing apprentice!).
So, there's a few older sewing projects...crafting with the girls on Saturday night so hopefully I will get something done and remember that sewing is my hobby and I love it...me and sewing have both been on holidays at this house- and not together!
I am back to work tomorrow, I have had such a nice break, relaxed, restorative. Ahhhh.

Crochet update: thanks to those of you who pointed me towards the left handed crochet tutes on youtube- I was listening to one and my girl said- "Are you actually watching that video about how to crochet?", "Yep", she said "but you already know how to crochet" (she's seen my chain stitch- bless her!), I said "kind of, but I don't actually know alot, there's alot to learn" and she replied "you don't need to know everything, you know"

The little engine that could...

2012-01-15T11:49:00.000+11:00

For those familiar with "The Little Engine that could", that certainly was one positive thinking engine, wasn't it? In the spirit of that little engine, here is todays crochet installment. Unfortunately no pattern was (able to be!) followed so I am not quite sure what this is...I just did everything in multiples of 3. 6 chain stitches, made a loop, 3 more chain stitches, went through the loop and did 3 of something else...then repeated that! One day I'll get to a granny square (I think I can, I think I can).

Progress?

2012-01-14T18:09:00.001+11:00

I am really not sure if this can be called crochet, or crochet progress at all, but I took a photo because I have done something other than chain stitch today! Just what I have done, I'm not quite sure...are any of you proficient crocheters left handed by any chance...or are the 'success' odds stacked against me?

On a totally randomly note, our neighbours are cooking a bbq and the most amazing smells are wafting over our fence.

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the arrangement

2012-01-13T22:46:00.000+11:00

We are lucky enough to live close by to great friends who are biodynamic dairy farmers. We have 'an arrangement', we swap our produce for their milk.
Sometimes the 'vegie box' is more abundant than others, sometimes it includes honey or jam and occasionally a cake or some bread. I feel really grateful to have such excellent quality milk, I do appreciate it. Mr. Apple has worked in the cowshed a reasonable amount, although not for a while, after his first few milkings he commented on how content and settled the cows seemed, really calm compared to other dairys he'd worked in. Our farmer friend is a pretty calm bloke, so the cows probably pick up his 'vibe'.

It's blackberry season here, I did a bit of jamming before Christmas but need to crank out the preserving pan again, we've put quite a few blackberries in the freezer- they'll be turned into cakes and muffins during the year.

We are spending our days kicking around home, hanging out- by ourselves and with friends, it's really nice. It was cooler this week so I baked bread and slow cooked lamb shanks for dinner (pretending it was Winter!). No craft has been done- I don't think I can count the ongoing 'mastery' of 'chain stitch' in my crochet...or complete failure to progress from there. I will be inspired by Lissanne though, because she 'got it' today...maybe I will get it...one day!

List review

2012-01-08T00:11:00.001+11:00

In 2011, for the first time, I wrote a list. A list of things I would aspire to do/ be during the year. I really liked my list. I didn't print it out. I should have- it would have made it more of a 'working/ inspiring document' that it was- having said that- it was interesting to re read and see just how many of these I got done, and/ or still aspire to. I am going to right another list for 2012. Until then, let me 'check off' this one...

look into peoples eyes when I am talking to them- not in a creepy way, just give my attention -generally, I think, yes I did/ do this and want to continue
go outside more often - this one I needed written on my wall! I did go outside more, mostly for walks, I would like be go outside just to hang and out 'be'...
put things back where they belong after I have finished with them (hmm, be tidier)- hmm, depends who you ask I think. I actually tried to get rid of stuff so I had less to actually put away! Overall, I still aspire to this, and (sigh), it's a work in progress...
finish my sentences (I tend to drift off, forgetting that there is a listener involved who can't necessarily read my thoughts) I think I am getting heaps better at this- slowing the thoughts down, and not assuming prior knowledge to the goings on in my head. But if I ever don't finish a sentence on you- please prompt me!
swim in the ocean. Swim anywhere, actually, but the ocean is always great. yep, I still love this- I swam in the ocean today actually. Brilliant.
walk 10km all in one go gee, I forgot I wrote that- what was I thinking? Funny thing is, I did do this. My friend Cheryl and I participated in the Tat200 10km walk event. It was really fun., Cheryl made sure we kept the pace up! Aside from that, I also did two other walking 'events' with Karen. When I say 'with' what I mean is she was doing the 8km running events and because she's lovely, she hung around and waited for me and cheered me in as I did the 8km walking events (this time last year I don't think I even knew these events existed!). I am going to more of these kinds of things this year.
ride the Beechworth- Bright rail trail with our friends. tick. And it was fantastic and I would do it all over again, and hope we do
read a book every month (at least), and stretch myself in my choices of book -nah, I didn't do much reading last year. I still like reading and will aim for a book a month again!
make an effort to spend time with my friends - I don't think I spent enough time with friends this year. I was surprised when my crafty friend Carolyn said the other day that the reason we don't do more craft together is because I am the one who is always busy. She was surprised that I was surprised! I did get a weekend away with friends at Sewjourn which was pretty lovely. We didn't see as much of our family friends as we have in other years- but really, June- September were a bit of a write-off because the fruit trees were nuts this year! I have to work out balance here...
practice being in the present- be mindful- no need to drift off work in progress- next step- multi task less and have less tabs open on my computer screen at once
do something creative everyday fail. and when I am creative, I remember how much it grounds me and I need it. Still on the list!
make yoghurt instead of buying it nope, forgot it was on the list. Don't think I eat as much yoghurt as I used to!
write (and don't forget to post) letters regularly yes- although there was still a decent amount that didn't get posted.
have more hand made Christmas decorations than store bought forgot it was on the list, although, we probably did, it was thanks to the school age children, not their mother!
play with my children yep, but I am much better at this in the holidays. I didn't know I could be such a 'control freak' and need to have 'everything' sorted out before I could just stop and play. Carcassonne is a bit of a favourite. I definitely want to play more.
cook with my children ...about that 'control freak' thing. I did abit of cooking with the children, but not anything really to note.
listen to music- always enjoy it when I do, just forget to put it on yes, I bought myself a little ipod nano in July- Happy Birthday me- so I listen on that, mostly.
smile and laugh- a lot probably not as much as I would have liked, I had some fun and happy times but overall 2011 was a hard one that I was happy to see the back off.
take more photos (see number 3. give the camera a home so I can always find it!) yes, well, ahem, the camera hasn't even come on holidays with us this time (is this where I admit that I couldn't find it as we were packing!) My phone has a camera on it, though, so I do have some holiday photos
write a tutorial for my blog gee, I wonder what I thought I was going to write a tutorial about. I am open to suggestions!
make some collages one, the 9 year old and I each did one during a crafty session one day
make mosaic steps for my garden yes, thanks for reminding me, list, they actually haven't been properly placed yet
start a hexagon quilt I started and finished a hexagon quilt- but that wasn't what I was referring too. I have started a hand pieced hexagon quilt, and I worked on it tonight actually. On my mums spare bed, she has two quilts- a hexagon one she did and a hexagon quilt my grandma made, I must take a photo to show you. I want to add my hexagon quilt to that pile!
finish a rag rug the rag rug is still in the unfinished projects pile, I still like it, but haven't worked on it for a while
exercise at least three times a week probably, overall I have. One of the 'most admirable' (!) exercise things I did (in my opinion) was do pilates once a week for the second half of the year- that's a big commitment for me!
go to bed earlier and get up earlier I need this one printed somewhere I will see it- it's 11.41pm as I type and the young boy will, no doubt wake up just after 6am and I will here him getting his breakfast and be annoyed a) that I am a light sleeper and b) that I went to bed so late.
own less books at the end of the year than at the start of the year yep. I my love affair with my library was reignited, when I realised I could basically order any book in from almost any library in Victoria and have it sent to my local- all over the internet with no fee attached. I have some recent Burda magazines to pick up when I get home, actually, yey! I have hardly bought any books, and I have dispatched quite a few, with more to go
use fresh herbs in my cooking I think I did do this more- but generally with the trusty hardy perenials like sage, thyme, rosemary, chives and less coriander and basil (because I was crap at watering them)
eat seasonally from the garden and don't whinge about having a hankering for broccoli or asparagus when it's not time! sort of, we've had some amazing fruit, as well as great garlic, spuds, asparagus and a few other things, but I think our garden was abit less abundant this year. The garderner may dispute this!
grow tulips great idea. Forgot it was on the list, I want to grow tuips this year!
sew some clothing for me gee, really- I was thinking this last January? I have progressed to patterns and fabric stage (wrap dress) and made some basic trackies for me
keep a 'thoughts to get back to' note book. And get back to them. HA- as if! That would get very full very quickly- surely the good ideas won't need to be written down 'to get back to'(?)
spend less time on the computer... yes, (this may be disputed)- but not by choice- we had dodgy probs with Telstra for several months interupting my computer usage. What I really need is 'wiser' use of my computer time.
attend the newly initiated 'first Sunday book club' with Mr. Apple (it's only us two!) fizzled- we got through one book, I think it just didn't become a habit- still aspired to though
Generally make time for, prioritise and nurture my close relationships I'd still like to do much better at this
drink more water I'd still like to do much better at this too!
do regular stretching or yoga Abovementioned pilates counts.
chuck stuff that I do not love or use out yes, and there's more to be chucked
keep a journal spasmodically successful
take the children to the snow bummer- forgot about this- surely in 2012 we can make it to the snow
go camping yes- for a couple of days post rail trail bike ride. And we have even been talking 'tent purchase' as a Christmas present (late, I realise that)
spend some time in silence each day no, but again, I think I need to, to collect myself each day.
eat when I am hungry, stop when I am full not always, but more frequently. Overall I would say that my 'eating behaviour' is alot better that it has been, I am eating breakfast most days (that's new for me), probably eating smaller portions and less food overall, without being 'obsessive'. I have lost a decent amount of weight in 2011...and still have a decent amount of weight to lose!
be generous that's a funny one to comment on myself- I am sure I can always be more generous
contribute to my community I could do more. I did my forth year on our School council and second year as President, which I will be very happily handing over in March!
be brave work in progress, that bravery thing, but I think I have been pretty damn brave at times this year

Well, what a lot of words, and no photos!

I think it was worthwhile doing a list, despite lack of ongoing reference to it! It's interesting to reread (I wonder why making yoghurt got in my 'top 46'!)...I will ponder this years list and get something down- otherwise, before I know it, it will be December.

'Gone fishin'

2012-01-06T00:30:00.001+11:00

Literally.
I got abit exhausted at the end of the year, realised I wasn't going to finish everything a couple of days before Christmas, so stopped trying. Now we're at the beach, hanging out together. Nice!

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the joy and the struggle

2011-12-16T11:37:00.005+11:00

Hmmm, the Christmas season.
I love the preparation for Christmas. I (generally) love baking, making and thinking of people I love as I think of gifts for them.
I don't love trying to think of presents when I am uninspired... the "I'm only getting you this because I am expected to get you a present" present. I don't love creating handmade things and gifting them to unappreciative people who think I have taken the 'cheap' option by 'doing the homemade thing'.

For anyone who doesn't know- many crafters don't necessarily craft for thrift now- my mum always made our clothes because it was cheaper (and I assume, for personal satisfaction!)- that isn't true these days. If I make myself a shirt, say, it will cost more that I could pick one up at a chainstore or op shop for, for sure. The pattern, the fabric, the time, the energy...it's not about thrift (it can be and that's pretty fun too)- it's about creativity and my spirit, as I have said here before.

I digress. What I don't love, is when gift has turned to expectation. Joy and celebration turns to stress and busy-ness. Thoughtfulness has turned to obligation.
We don't get junk mail but I do see the piles that arrive at my work at this time of year- it's nuts. Really. And when did gifts for children get so massively out of proportion? In my opinion. I don't intend to judge other peoples practice, just expose the tension in my mind.
I could go on, this churns me up abit, but I wont.

I don't love so many people encouraging consumerism in my children- I don't like 'what do you want for Christmas?' but I dislike 'what are you getting for Christmas' even more. I have an 11 year old son and a 9 year old daughter. If you have hung around here abit you may realise we live relatively simply.

I don't want to drown my children in stuff (there bedrooms get messy enough as it is!). But I also don't want them to feel like they are (and we are) total freaks because they haven't got their own laptop, iphone, ipod touch, playstation, tv in their room... whatever. There's plenty of time for those things, isn't there?

Sigh, I really struggle with this. I read an article about a bloke who is a professional 'declutterer'- or something like that- he said children's rooms are interesting, it's often the parents who want to hang on to the toys but as he encouraged them to get rid of some of the stuff in the kids bedrooms every single time he would witness a child come in to their clearer room and dance!

I don't really want to teach my children to value their possessions above their relationships, but I have never heard some random stranger ask 'who are you going to spend time with this Christmas'. I also want to demonstrate generosity and thoughtfulness to my children; my discomfort with all the 'stuff' isn't just about the huge drain on financial resources (although- I don't think there's any need to go into further debt over your kids Christmas presents, just quietly!) I hope they see and value the time I spend making jam and understand that that is part of the gift.

At 9 and 11 I reckon my children are now at a more 'peer influenced' age, so how do we parent so they are not excluded from there peers whilst upholding our values and what we think is important. I don't know what gifts our children will be getting from us for Christmas. Our family present from the 'in law' side of the family is a family ticket to Puffing Billy. Great present, we are going to have our 'big day out' in January probably.

I find the comparisons hard too. What are your kids getting? What did you get? My kids get home grown fruit and vegies, parents who hang out with them a decent amount, meals around the table, family games...I can't wrap any of that and put it under a tree but they are some of the things we have decided are important.

Another article I read recently was by a Palliative Care nurse who said that many peoples dying 'regrets' are remarkably similar- they wish they had spend time with their friends more, maintained a bit of silliness (!), gone abit slower... and the one that challenges me- had the courage to live according to their convictions- be who they are- rather than live according to how they thought other people expected them to live.

What a big rant, I didn't intend to rave on, there's alot banging around up in my head today and no other adults around- so I chose to 'chat' to you!

I'd be really happy to have a conversation about this stuff- does anyone else on the planet find the excess difficult? Wonder how to 'do' balance? Or do you all love the Christmas spend up? Am I just over thinking it all?

Pud

2011-12-14T23:58:00.001+11:00

Christmas baking has commenced. I made over 50 of these for the volunteers at my work, boiled fruit cake made in muffin pans decorated to look like a pudding... not my usual kind of baking but they were well received. I also made gluten free mince pies, the filling was good (apparently, I don't eat the stuff) but I need to work on my gf sweet pastry. I have more to bake and sew before Christmas...I need to start a list!

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Dotty

2011-12-05T21:37:00.001+11:00

I have been really excited about my toiletry bag. I haven't wanted to show you because it was a present- but it's been given now, so it's show and tell time!

Of course it's my next project from "You Sew Girl" for my Tanya and Nicole Challenge.

I wish you could feel it- it's 'crisp', not crunchy or stiff, or flimsy but suitably substantial...guess what...that would be the interfacing, I may be at risk of becoming a bit of an interfacing nerd! But I think it really does give it a wonderful finish.
Lots of people who I have showed it off to have picked it up and felt it and commented about how smart it felt (I didn't bore them with too much about interfacing!).
I found the pattern easy to understand and I am less daunted by zips than I used to be (the method of putting this one makes it accessible for anyone who can sew a straight line). I was thankful my machine doesn't tend to mind a bit of bulk at times and I found sewing the binding on was not problematic, but I am familiar with binding from my quilting- not that I have all those angles and turns when quilting. I machine sewed both sides, and while I wasn't 100% happy with some bits I was happy to acknowledge that the 'overall effect' is what counts and don't think the dodgy bits were too noticeable- this is something that will improve with practice and I will get some more practice because I have three more on the go. Surprisingly both my children have put their orders in for one which was rather flattering- they are generally not overly forthcoming with praise or affection for some of my crafty projects!

Don't you love it when you have a gift that you reckon the giftee is going to love. These are some things I photographed while at her house on the weekend- see where I got my colour inspiration?

Making

2011-11-29T11:10:00.001+11:00

Mondays and Wednesdays are my usual 'work outside the home'days. It can mean that I get over excited about Tuesday and try and cram too many things in. I will initially think, ahh, Tuesday, I can take it easy abit, and then, I will start 'taking it easy' and that will lead to me creating a massive list in my head about all the things I want to do.

Take today for example, today is the first day we have a pretty decent crop of apricots to pick- so I think- 'great idea, I'll make jam'. The apricots are now picked (not by me, I probably should mention, in the interests of full disclosure!). They are now waiting to be washed, cut up and made into jam.

And then I remember that the fruit I have soaking in (3 different types of) grog is ready to mince and go on to the next step of my fruit mince tarts for Christmas. So I have made the pastry and minced the fruit...and walked outside and realised it's really hot (and look up the forecast and it's going to be 36 degrees). So that's as much of that as I am going to do today because I am NOT putting my oven on in this weather.

The natural thought progression then moves onto hot weather, inside, creative pursuits and I think, yep, today I will make progress on my list of things to make before Christmas. That might involve; a library bag, 3 more toiletry bags, 3 nighties,, and a few other things. There has been action in the sewing room, not of which I am ready to show because they are all presents and I forget which relatives read or know about my blog and don't want to pre-empt the gift giving.
What I can show you though, is the 'was going to be a gift' dress, I saw the intended recipient on the weekend and I think it will be too small. This is the second Oliver and S 'Ice Cream Social' dress I have made.
I vaguely remember a few years ago there was an ice cream dress bloggy sew along, well, not out of character for me I am a late comer to this pattern. I really enjoyed sewing it, it was the first Oliver and S pattern I have made and I have just bought two more I liked it so much.
I liked that I understood what it was telling me to do (sometimes took a few reads, or me to clarify it with my sewing 'help desk', but, for example once Karen cleverly advised me that I was looking at the wrong page and a good trick she finds is to follow the instructions in order!). When I had to match up notches, there they were, in the right spot.

I enjoyed the detail of the 'v' on the pocket, not too tricky at all (amazing what following instructions can do for you!). I hadn't done that before.

These are not my preferred choice of fabrics and colours, but that's okay, because I wont be wearing it. I did it with the intended recipient in mind she likes butterflies, pink, yellow, girly, pretty things. I do find it much easier to sew with fabric I love though, colours I love. I mean, this was okay but wasn't my favourite.

On that note, I might go and get on with all the days 'making'...I possibly should include- make the dinner, make the clothes clean and dry and folded, make the place abit more presentable generally- but I don't find that making half as much fun!

Paddock to plate

2011-11-21T18:32:00.001+11:00

I love those particularly abundant times of year when the garden is offering plenty. Especially when the plenty has a relatively short season (eg. asparagus) so we never feel the weight of 'what are we going to do with all these...insert name of vegie'. The short season means the produce isn't taken for granted. Berries and cherries are always pretty special too.
If you ever wonder why raspberries can be expensive, spare a thought for the picker- and hope they are getting a decent cut of your money. They a little, fragile and tricky to pick compared to many of the larger most robust fruits.
Paddock to plate in under 10 minutes. Nice.

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Garlic time

2011-11-20T11:26:00.001+11:00

At this time of year, the garden starts to burst..in a good way. The garlic harvest has commenced, this lots has been hung out to dry...kind of literally. It's in a room in our old shearing shed which has a slatted floor so air can circulate as the garlic 'cures'. So it will dry without going mouldy. I love garlic.

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Clever phone?

2011-11-15T13:47:00.000+11:00

Playing to see if I can work out how to post from my phone...may have been more handy when internet was down.
A few weeks ago it was my friends 40th. The theme was 'movie stars'. Can you tell who I am? The bee from the bee movie.
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Happiness of the crafty camp variety

2011-11-15T09:48:00.001+11:00

If I had written a blog post last week, it would have been all about how incompetent Telstra is- I have been internet-less, or with intermittent internet use for two months...and been shoved from one (generally pleasant enough) customer service officer to tech support to complaint resolution (yes, I have my very own Telstra case manager now!)...to little avail.

Oh, how I have missed my blog, and your blog. I have been skimming on my clever phone, but that tiny screen is hardly satisfactory when we are talking about crafty blogs- I want to be able to see your photos, and the prettiness of your whole page, all at once. And I want to be able to write comments...I am not really 'down with' writing 'UR pix A1' (that's my attempt at text message language,which I find really hard, because I like spelling). Not just the text message language, I tend to be slightly verbose generally (sorry!).

Anyway, that was last week, we are into a new week and separating the two is Sewjourn.

The fabric scramble- what to do when you can't pack everything!

I have talked before about craft and spirit ... and I think this weekend it's those intangibles that made me happiest.

In many ways my life is quite isolated, we live on a farm, out of town, we do have close and wonderful neighbours, but on my 'home days' the only people I see all day, besides my family, could be the other children (and sometimes adults) at the bus stop. I do enjoy the space, but I really like people too.

I like what can happen when people come together- when 'the whole becomes greater than the sum of it's parts'. The engaging in conversation and building on ideas, sharing of knowledge (in all directions), the inspiration, encouragement, compassion, wisdom, acceptance. I like different people, different personalities, different styles, different ways of doing things coming together with a mutual respect.

I could show you lots of photos of our weekend but it's been done before,

There was crocheting, patchworking, quilting, bag making, hat making, sewing for small people and sewing for ourselves, there was bathers, party dresses, shorts, knits and wovens.
Does that sound overwhelming? I wanted to do everything- watch people, chat to people, sew with people. There are quite alot of photos floating around and I have yet to see one of me sitting down at my sewing machine (can't quite understand that!) while Lara has her big dot point list of completed projects, I am happy to report back that this is coming along quite nicely, thanks!

Thank you Nikki, Lara, Annie, Karen, Rachel, Kathryn, Megan for a really fun initiation into craft camp. You're all ace.

Some pig!

2011-10-08T22:23:00.000+11:00

I mentioned the Prize winning show entries, well I just took some photos of a few things...

The pig. Hmmm, I am not sure where it's going to live now!

The appliqué- patient Grandma taught Jack how to do blanket stitch. Bless her! These were two of my favourite things that Jack entered...and possibly two of the easiest to photograph.

And here's a photo of my 'token entry' (I like to enter at least one thing in each year, if I am around, to support the local show)...the prize winning 'lemon butter'
The dodgy thing was, that the certificate didn't have my name on it, it had another local gal's name on it- she's a Tanya too, but totally different last name. I saw her at the show and she told me she didn't enter anything (so strange mix up to make), she was abit disappointed to hear the winning loot was a grand total of 50 cents!

Work in progress

2011-10-05T22:42:00.001+11:00

The 11 year old had asthma and was off school for 3 days during the last week of school. He wasn't unwell, but his asthma was too unstable for him to be at school- which meant that he was at home, looking for things to do. We have a small local agricultural show and the 'show schedule' was floating about- so J made that his reading material. And he got busy- circling, highlighting (making a generally messy page) of the 'under 13 section'. He worked out that a particular section had an aggregate prize, for the person with the most points over about 12 different classes.
I haven't got the list on me, but it was fairly ambitious!

"An article made from paper mache" was on the list...

This turned into a prize winning paper mache pig! He also put in a stitchery, applique, article made from recycled material, a card, hand painted article...and a few others. He worked really hard to finish his entries, getting abit disillusioned at the persistence required at times! He was so self-driven, I was impressed.
I did warn him that a win wasn't guaranteed, pointing out that he might be up against kids doing textiles in Year 7 who had more experience than him, but he was pretty confident telling me "even if that's true Mum, I am pretty happy with the quality of the things I have put up". He wavered once on the day it came to delivering the entries into the show for judging..."Will these things have my name on them?"- I explained that if he won or came second they would, but otherwise no "Why?"..."Oh, just cause if my mates see them with my name on them, they might tease me for doing girly things".
Happily for him he 'scooped the pool", came home with a $15.00 voucher and $8 in prizes ($1 a win)- technically minus $5 for the entry fees- 50c x 10)- and I wonder if he will be keen next year to head back and defend his title!

Four

2011-10-04T11:38:00.001+11:00

The lost wristlet was eventually found, I had left it at my friends house, and I eventually reclaimed it.

The lost mobile phone was never found and I eventually bought a new one. I wasn't sure, I was umming and ahhing about whether I needed one. I think I said that before here.
I got one that does tricks (it's smart apparently). I have used the phone a couple of times and realise I like the extra bit of security of having it there, especially if I am driving. I also like texting and email access...not that that is necessarily a good thing! The 11 year old also doesn't mind the odd phone call to the mobile to find out when I might be home from work, whether I can please buy some gluten free cereal on the way home- important things like that. Sadly for him (sometimes) I am not a great phone answerer at the best of times and I still haven't learnt my way around mobile phone etiquette.
If my phone rings and I am at work, do I answer it? and what about if I am in a parent teacher interview at school?- I am embarrassed to admit that I did answer my phone during the parent teacher interview, mainly because my phone never rings and it was a local friend so thought it may have been an 'emergency'- no, she just wanted to know if I wanted her to bring me a 'real' coffee home from town! I am still not great at ringing mobiles either- what if I am interrupting someone? Some of my friends only have a mobile now, so I have to get over that, you know, get with the times!

More about the wristlet...I am sad to report that it's "old sewing", I did have my machine out the other day but not much got done. I think I have a bit of a mental block about what to sew, hasn't really happened to me before, or at least, for ages. My crafty friends came out on Sunday night and while both of them nearly whipped up a whole quilt top, I, umm, sorted stuff out...which was good to do but not very creative!

I do love this little wristlet, and I do love how in Nikki's book she builds on projects, so when I show you my next project from the book (which is soooo close to finished I should just do it!), you will recognise some aspects of this little wristlet- she steps you into techniques gradually, I like that.
In fact, I have recently heard Nikki being called a genius

Hex

2011-10-02T21:41:00.000+11:00

The hexagon got finished a while ago, but I handed it over before taking any photos. I visited it (well, it's new owner, really) last week and pulled out the camera for a bit of a snap.
Hexagon quilts are really hard to photograph...

The front is quite 'scrappy' and the back is also piece with the more muted 'Dick and Jane' range.

The pattern is from Anna Maria Horner's baby book and it's called 'Sixth times a charm'...I didn't do the method she suggested but used her photo for inspiration and kind of winged it.

This quilt was made for a very special baby, long awaited and much loved...and very very cute xx

Citrus season

2011-09-17T17:10:00.000+10:00

Our citrus trees are full on at the moment, one particular orange tree is my favourite.
Ages ago, I got a bit inspired to make marmalade

and this lot of mandarins, tangelos, lemons, and oranges turned into quite a few of these

there are considerably less jars now than when I first made them, two people in this household are particularly fond of marmalade, it would seem!
I like making jam and preserves, I like that the abundance of the season can be spread over the year. I still have quite a few blackberries in the freezer from Summer, I have been adding them to cakes, muffins and smoothies throughout the year. This year we didn't bottle enough tomatoes to last us the whole year and now we've run out. I don't like having to buy tinned tomatoes, doesn't feel quite right.

'ello, 'ello

2011-09-11T23:11:00.001+10:00

Just dropping in to my blog to say hello- this place feels like a bit of a holiday house at the moment.
Thanks to those of you who have emailed me to ask how I am getting on, it's very lovely and thoughtful. I didn't mean to stop hanging around, it just happened. (Ha, that reminds me of my daughter at the moment 'it's not my fault, I didn't do it!')

Guess what? This time 11 years ago, I had just become a mother. Jack was born, after a few years of trying to get pregnant, and a pregnancy where I had trouble believing that I actually would be 'get' a baby at the end of it...that sounds odd as I type it.
I remember not wanting to get my hopes up- my 'getting pregnant' hopes had been battered and bruised and maybe this translated to my 'being a mum/ having a baby' hopes generally. It meant I was rather under prepared in the 'stuff' department and my children never had a beautiful nursery... they did alright!
I really can't believe that was 11 years ago. I wish I could work out how to get a photo from my new phone to this blog so I could show you the ace birthday cake I made for him- 'designed' by Jack (a Hawthorn footy club jumper!).

Our Internet is annoyingly unreliable, just changed modems, but I don't think this is going to be much better. I can't upload any photos at the moment, so can't show you my latest 'Nikki project' or my marmalade, or my great gluten free chicken nuggets. Odd for me to do an all words post.

Nice to be here, I will try not leave it so long next time...but I suspect I have said that before.

Lucky, Lucky, Lucky

2011-07-27T15:50:00.000+10:00

I mentioned that we have just had a visit from our German friends...look what came with them.

Reinhild was knitting for months and months before she got here, she bought with her 11 pairs of socks that she had knitted in various sizes and colours. One pair each for my mum and dad, a pair for me, and my crew (4 altogether) , a pair for my brother and his crew (also 4 altogether) and a pair for my Aunty.

She used that wool that as you knit it up, it makes it's own pattern, it may have a name, being 'not a knitter', I am not sure. What an effort- the wool is really fine, would have taken hours. They are beautiful and warm and toasty.
I was slightly surprised when the 10 year old boy tried his on and exclaimed 'at last, some decent socks'...(like- "I am so glad you've visited and made me these socks, my mum makes me wear dreadful socks that are not warm and have holes in them"- that was kind of the implication! Poor neglected child...)

Rusty

2011-07-24T16:52:00.000+10:00

I have been missing my blog...and yours too, actually- there hasn't been much blog reading or writing going on here.
I was surprised to see 'last post on June 19th' though. Have I been busy trying to keep my head above water since then? I don't think I wanted to know that!

I have finished a few crafty things in that time though- a little cardigan (yes, knitting!)- given to it's new recipient without taking a photo first (because I was still sewing the buttons on moments before handing it over), the hexagon quilt- I love it, also, handed over to its new owner without a photo (still hand sewing the binding moments before handing that one over!)...I will get a photo next time I visit. Such a fun and pretty easy quilt to do.
The wristlet has been found- left it at my friends house- she lives around the corner but I haven't picked it up again yet, will take a photo when I get it back. It now has a big sister, which I also can't wait to show you.

The mobile phone hasn't been found though. Do I really need one? I think the other one has gone for good and it's time to think about replacement. I am not like 'the young people' who do alot of their communicating via text messages, but I do enjoy abit of 'extra' communication with friends via text, and I have missed that. I don't actually use the phone much. I travel 100km (round trip, country driving) to work two days a week, so it's comforting having a mobile for 'just in case'...most probably 'just in case I run out of petrol!'

The noise makers are still here. It's been hard. I complained. I said earthworking noise, 10 metres from our house (at times, sometimes further away but still loud) from 7am- 5.30pm, 7 days a week (yes, really, and even on public holidays) is unreasonable. We are hoping they are nearly finished. Our channel has plastic lining so I think they must be nearly finished. Dodgy project.

Trees have been sent, markets attended and that will slow down soonish. I still think it's great to see so many people keen on growing their own fruit.

Paddle steamers at Echuca
It was refreshing to be looking at Australia through fresh eyes, again.

Amongst the chaos we had a short visit from our friends from Germany.
My parents are taking them to the airport today, their flight leaves in a few hours. These are friendships that have formed as a result of me being an exchange student to Germany in 1989! This time Tom, who is 9 was one of the visitors, he is first of the '3rd generation' to cross the oceans for a visit.
Ah, it was sad to say goodbye.

A visit to the Healesville Sanctuary

I am reminded though, that I need to plan better with my crafting, I need some portable craft on the go and accessible at all times. It helps to keep me grounded, sane, and in touch with who I am.

makin' bacon

2011-06-19T21:21:00.000+10:00

The pigs have had their worst day.
Last year we got a mobile butcher to come and do the butchery type things.
This year Mr. Apple and the 2 neighbours decided they could handle it...
This year I teamed up with some books, google and Pete (the Italian friend) to learn how to make bacon (pancetta, apparently).

It's been salted, now it's hanging and next week it's going to be smoked (above mentioned neighbour has a home made smoker, I wonder how that will go!).

It's time

2011-06-15T09:15:00.000+10:00

It's that time of the year again.

Our 'season'. That is, the bare rooted fruit tree season. The trees are dug and now orders are being collated and sent.
Our first market was on Saturday, in Violet Town (who does markets only in Winter?!). It was a good 'ease in' because it was gorgeous and sunny.
It was exciting to get a little mention in the 'Organic Gardener' magazine (page 19 if you read it).

My craft room is no longer my own, I am sharing it with the overflow of parcels being packaged!

The last of our apples are on the trees, persimmons and pomegranates are fruiting.
It is great to grow your own fruit.

My creative space

2011-06-02T15:21:00.000+10:00

There is a bit of sorting through fabric (that's a pretty fun thing to do), ironing, cutting and sorting into piles going on here today.

I am making a quilt out of Anna Maria Horner's 'Handmade Beginnings' book...I am just not sure whether I will crop the triangles on the sides to make in a rectangle...I might be more inclined leave it as a hexagon, or add bits (technical term) to the corners to make it a square. I will re-evaluate as I go I think.

This idea is it will end up looking something like this

.
I am still abit narky that my wristlet hasn't turned up and now my mobile phone has gone to join it, where the lost things are.
Anyway, the most exciting thing is who this quilt is going to be for...I'll tell you soon, but at the moment, it's not my news.
Loads of other creativity going on- have a look over here.

Cushion arrival.

2011-05-30T18:51:00.000+10:00

My postie brought me something special today.
It came all the way from New Zealand.
Leonie made it, for me. Actually this is the cushion living at her place, I haven't taken a photo of it living at my place yet. She worked out that I am in love with apple fabrics- and introduced me to that white and red one, I hadn't seen that before.
What a bright, fun and happy cushion. I really like how cheerful it is. It's practically yelling- take me outside, sit on a seat in the sun with me, grab a cup of tea and the newspaper, some stitching or a jolly good book- don't you think?
Thanks Vic for organising a fun swap, I have been coasting around looking at other peoples cushions and it seems to me that people have put a lot of thought and love into their creations, which makes me smile and enjoy some goodwill in the world.

Swapped

2011-05-26T10:53:00.002+10:00

I haven't participated in a swap for ages. Then Vic announced she was keen on a cushion cover swap and I decided I was quite keen on that idea too.
So mine has been sent off to it's new owner, and my fingers are crossed that she likes it. It's always a bit of a gamble! Surely she has it by now- I did send it off on Monday at 4.30pm but was informed I had already missed the post (I think it's a country thing!).
I wanted it to be a surprise and thought she might guess it's for her (I am hoping there are a couple of favourite things in this cushion), but I think it will be in her mailbox before she reads this, if she ever does!

and the back...

I was umming and ahhing about whether to add a zipper closer or pillowcase closure. I ended up going with pillow case because, if she really doesn't like it, it's reversible (with more rounded corners)...this is the back, the front is the purple all over.
It's quite a heavy cushion cover because I added batting and lightly 'stipple' quilted it, but that's hard to see in the photos.

I wish I had better photography skills...or maybe I should blame my equipment?!
Cross your fingers with me that my cushionee likes it, wont you. It's kind of nerve wracking.

Oh, OOPS, I nearly forgot to say, the patchwork block is out of Elizabeth Hartman's book The Practical Guide to Patchwork, it's a pretty nice book! This is the first thing I have done out of it- and only one block, not the whole quilt...hmm, I'll just add it to the want to do list.

Speaking of which, the Tanya and Nicole project is boiling along and I have a wristlet to show you...but, well, it's kind of a long story, and well, I have misplaced it. There, I have said it.
I took it to Melbourne to show a friend (and forgot to show her!) and haven't seen it since. I have the strap. So, if I don't find it before to much longer I will be grumpily showing you my wristlet strap!
Does anyone else lose things? Drives me crazy!

Free range

2011-05-20T12:38:00.001+10:00

Seriously, these pigs are taking the concept of 'free ranging' too far for my liking...

This is my front yard...

Front deck (poor puzzled Pippi dog- they are not scared of her!)

And my front door!
Usually they have a generous piece of paddock fenced off by a solar powered electric fence...but it hasn't been that sunny and well, obviously the battery backup is rather ineffective.
I am abit scared of them (they are pretty big!), Mr. Apple is away today (he's bringing home fence adjustments).
So I have shut the gates and am trying to remain 'alert but not alarmed' while the 3 little pigs have a jolly good forage in my space.

Note to dear friend Tan- do you still want to abandon your city life for a week on the farm- playing in the garden, enjoying the quiet and drinking cups of tea? The reality is not all sunshine and may involve some pig wrangling! On the other hand, if you were wanting to practice your circus skills this may just be the place for you!

As we speak

2011-05-17T09:43:00.000+10:00

Welcome to my house.

Oh- wait, did I say welcome? I must have been mistaken...

As I sit here there is a lot of noise around me.
Chainsaws, trucks and other nasty loud things.
'They' are chopping my trees down.
Someone 'just doing his job' is chopping our trees down.
And creating a lot of noise pollution in my usually quiet neck of the woods.

I don't like it.

A neighbour had 8 over 50 year old eucalypts cut down by the same people last week...no permit required.
next post...the therapeutic benefits of having a blog?!

For those it's hard for

2011-05-08T22:03:00.001+10:00

This blog post has written itself really, I wasn't planning to write today, but here I am.

I wanted to be a mum for a few years before I got to be one

(I have PCOS, if anyone is familiar with it, it's a tricky hormone thing that can affect fertility)

Mothers Day was always hard.

Now I am a mum, and I feel thankful and grateful and I appreciate my two.

I don't take them for granted. I don't take being a mum for granted.

Today, I am enjoying being a mum.

I am also holding in my heart my friends (and those in general) who want to be mums, but aren't for various reasons.

I also don't take having a mum, alive, well, living 20km away, for granted.

During Uni, 4 of my friends mums died over a few short years.

Since then, some of my friends mums have died, some have got dementia.

Today, I have seen my mum and made a lemon tart for her.

For those of you whose mum isn't around, I am thinking of you, and holding you in my heart too.

Pause

2011-05-06T14:21:00.001+10:00

I don't think I have been accused of being too quick in my life. Ever. Until the last few days (I secretly quite liked it!). It has been suggested that I am whipping through the Tanya and Nicole/ Julie and Julia project too fast.
And, perhaps that I have got off to a head start because I actually have the book in my possession.
It seems, my postie is more efficient than some and others, well, it sounds like they are having a very disciplined wait until Mother's Day.
I did assure those commenters that I have been getting my confidence up with some of the smaller projects and that things will find a more reasonable pace soon.

But I will tell you about something entirely different today.
Compulsory acquision of land- you know, like in the film, the Castle.
Well it's happening to us, to our farm- just a small bit of it, but our farm is only small to start off with and it all counts.

Can you tell how much fun is had in and around this tree.

Well, it's going to be cut down (probably- no details have been finalised). My children and their friends have spent hours up this tree, having all sorts of adventures (and surprisingly, no broken bones).
These trees?

Going as well.
Oh, I can feel my blood pressure rising as I start to think about it.
I feel- powerless, frustrated, sad, annoyed and a trillion other emotions in the mix as well.

We live in a farming area that has irrigation channels. Farmers irrigate their crops using this water. Some bright spark (?) has come up with the idea that if the channels are lined with plastic less water will be lost through it seeping out... (lined with plastic? Really? I wonder what will happen to the plastic in 10 years...)
Our house is basically right on the channel (you can see the house in the bottom photo). Over the next 3 months workers are going to be on our place (7.30am- 6pm because they have a tight time frame), rebuilding the channel and lining it with plastic, chopping down our trees and then they are going to fence it off and 'compensate' us for the land (to the tune of 30-40% of the land value). Apparently, according to the Water Act, that's all okay...they don't need our consent.

Just telling you how I feel.

The novelty of a finished product...or three!

2011-05-05T10:18:00.000+10:00

Over the past couple of years, I have come back to 'garment construction'. I am now sewing clothes, hats, bags etc. after basically exclusively patchwork and quilting for years before that.

I am still getting used to the fact that, with abit of care, effort and attention I can 'whip up' a complete project in a few hours. Huh, who knew?

This is my third project for my Tanya and Nicole/ Julie and Julia challenge.
A quick, snappy kids belt which was met with a pleasing amount of happiness from a newly 9 year old birthday girl this morning (my 8 year olds 'bestie').

Interestingly, because I am now using my fabric stash and regularly delving into 'the riches', I have realised that as well as my 'out and proud' total adoration for any fabric with apples on it, I seem to be a closet (unknown even to me!) mushroom collector.
I realise that I have just admitted that my fabric collection is in total disarray with bits and pieces everywhere...

You know the other thing I am still getting my head around- Nikki talking about mm all the time, anyone would think inches weren't our unit of measurement.
What's that? Oh, they aren't in Australia, are they...
I am a 1/4 inch seam girl (for patchwork) so I am getting used to wider seam allowances (why are the seam allowances wider in garment making?) and using the 'conversion' page in the book regularly. I am glad that page is there!

Project number for is for me! Hooray.

Zwei

2011-05-02T22:35:00.000+10:00

Zwei. (pron ts-vy). Two.
Zwei in celebration of my German friends coming to visit. Arriving on my birthday- hooray, what a present. Not till July but I suspect the time till then will go rather quickly. Because life does seem to at the moment- go quickly.
What I wanted to show you though, was article number 2 from the 'Tanya and Nicole' project, the baby's hat.

(oh hello hat model, we haven't seen you here for a while...)

Vegie patch fabric- see, beetroot, red cabbage, tomatoes- all that good stuff.
And, if the intended recipient is not into the vegies, it's reversible

At this stage (below) Mr. Apple's comment was 'oh I see, bit of a Russian influence huh?'

"Ummm, no. It's just not finished (please tell me you are joking)"

So my hot tip for this pattern is that all the pattern pieces fit (individually) onto an A4 page. I worked out (through trying) that our printer (which is also a photocopier) can copy onto thin cardboard- so I have got a lovely solid cardboard hat pattern which I suspect I will use again and again. And, the original fits back into that nice neat little pattern envelope there at the back of the book.

New rule
I have extended the challenge to include a new rule. All projects made from Nikki's book have to be made from current fabric stash. No fabric shall be purchased in the completion of this project. I am allowed to buy interfacing and bag hardware as required. Interfacing, because well, if I hoard that, it's likely to go in a cupboard and I will pull it out months later and go- hmm, medium, light...heavy interfacing? Can't remember...can't tell.

Start at the very beginning...

2011-04-30T17:31:00.002+10:00

(See, Curlypops is not the only one who is keen on the odd blog title with reference to a 'Sound of Music' track!)

Tanya and Nicole. Part 1.
So, by 'the very beginning' I don't mean the beginning of the book. Gosh, no, I am not that linear.
I will be doing all the projects, but not in the order that they are presented to me. That would be far too structured!
So, the beginning bit is about the 'level' of the project- who it would be most suited to (beginner, advanced beginner etc). This little zipper pouch is a beginners project. It was one I pattern tested, so I started with the familiar as well.
Do you know the eye rolling thing about making it?

First seam and the 'quick upick' (or 'my best friend', as Cheryl calls it!) was required.
Distracted mistake. I sewed the zip onto the wrong side of the fabric- not, as the instructions said, the right side.
The positive about this is that- it was a short seam to unpick and has reminded me to not get 'blase' and over confident, to pay attention to detail (and, er, the instructions!). This mistake has put me in my place.
Anyway, over that and on with it, not too much later, and the 8 year old has a new little pouch to store all sorts of treasures in.

And when you peek inside, there are a few stripes...

Tanya and Nicole/ Julie and Julia

2011-04-27T21:11:00.002+10:00

Tanya and Nicole doesn't have quite the same ring to it as 'Julie and Julia' I understand that.
Are you familiar with Julie and Julia? Julie Powell, New Yorker who fancied herself as a cook who was up for a challenge, took Julia Childs cookbook and decided to cook herself through it in a year- 365 days. 536 recipes. And she blogged about it.
Okay, so look what arrived in my mailbox today (I flogged the photo from Nikki's blog)

I am too excited (other people are as well- and many more I am sure!)
I did some pattern testing for Nikki and wondered how the book would turn out. It feels like its been a long time coming (and it's not even my book!) but wow, it's a really great book. I haven't had a chance to sit for a big read yet, I just keep flipping pages at the moment. I will though, soon.
It's great for lots of reasons- Nikki is a thorough professional. She dots her 'I's' and crosses her 'T's', that girl (admirable!). It's practical and it has lots of clear photos- her explanations are understandable and she has the theoretical background to hang her practical hat on, which I value and can learn alot from.

When I stop flipping and start reading, do you know what I am go to do?
I am going to sew my way through the entire book. I am not giving myself a timeframe- no need to add pressure- the idea is that the process is fun and formative- can't rush that.
I will 'keep you in the loop' as I go along.

Edited to add: Top right of my blog- see up there? I have just made a button for anyone who wants to do this challenge with me, collectively. That would be fun. A few people left comments saying they were keen on the idea. Obviously you will need the book, you can get it from many bookshops (and your local will order it in for you with pleasure, I am certain) or, from Nikki's website. It's $40, which is about the same price as you'd pay for 2 or 3 boutique patterns but the book has heaps as well as invaluable tips and tricks. It's solid. I am not doing the patterns in any particular order so this challenge suits me well- there is plenty of room for spontaneity- knit or cotton fabric, bag or purse, clothing or belt, adult or child, pattern or 'pattern free'.

I have added to this challenge a special stash busting clause which you may or may not choose to participate in. That's right- no new fabric for the entire book (interfacing and bag hardware purchases allowed). Ah, the thrill of it!

I don't know if I need to add this, but will in case anyone wonders- Nikki didn't ask me to do this, she's not 'sponsoring me' or anything, she didn't know I was doing it until she saw it up there on my blog. I did do pattern testing for her and I do love her patterns and inclusiveness for all sewing levels and confidence. I have bought my fair share of craft books and have sometimes been abit disappointed but this one I flicked through and was happy.

Any questions? Feel free to email me, and if you do use the button or join in, I would love you to let me know and to see your progress.

The thrill of the research

2011-04-27T17:57:00.000+10:00

I am participating in a swap.
Hooray. I haven't done that for ages.
But Punky's mama has organised a cushion swap.
I am getting rather excited.
I have received notification of who I will be 'cushioning' for. It's top secret.
I may know them and their blog or I may not (not telling).
But, regardless, it's so fun trying to look at their blog, read their words, look at their photos and try and get a good sense of what kind of cushion is 'calling me' to be created. For them.
So to speak, You know what I mean.
I hope my cushionee likes it.
I haven't decided yet-to knit, to sew, to stitch, to print...I wonder.
I am determined not to leave this to the last minute and stress myself out about it (as has been my tendency in the past...)

The simple things

2011-04-26T17:15:00.000+10:00

Holidays give the illusion of time. Well, it's not an illusion, there is actually more time to do 'stuff' but, it's sort of an illusion when I manage to fritter away alot of time whilst achieving very little.
At least I feel like I can do that at a leisurely pace!
I love school holidays, kicking around with the family and friends (by the way the great bike adventure went really well and I am keen to do it- or some other rail trail, again).

It's on holidays I think of doing things like making pasta.
I didn't have a recipe but I knew the ingredients, I put all the plain flour I had in a bowl (maybe 2 cups), with an egg, a pinch of salt, a good slug (just channelling the Jamie Oliver in me!) of olive oil and enough water to make a stiff-ish kind of dough.
Then I let it rest for ages- like hours, I had other things to do.
Then the helpers gathered and we laughed, mucked around (well, it was kind of like play dough that you can eat it) and created and made the best pasta I have had in a long time.

It's during school holidays that I make big claims like "I think I will make the pasta from scratch every time we have it from now on".
My neighbour makes her lasagne sheets from scratch every time she makes lasagne, that's just her habit now (she isn't Italian in case you were wondering).
It really isn't that tricky, it is pretty fun. It could be achievable. Is it a priority? We'll wait and see.

Tradition...of sorts

2011-04-22T22:06:00.000+10:00

It's that day again, the big bake day. Making Hot Cross buns for the neighbours.

This year the gluten free ones became 'not cross buns'...

This year I used a new recipe, not deliberately, just kind of...vaguely. Oh, okay, I will spell it out, I couldn't find my recipe when it was required. It will be around. In a pile somewhere (or at the bottom of a pile somewhere!).
I had it out a few weeks ago because a friend and I took it upon ourselves to go and spend a few hours (which turned into a fair part of the day) making hot cross buns with the Grade 3's (both our girls are in Grade 3). Our school has a great kitchen and every time I have offered to come and do some cooking in small groups with the children, my offer has been gratefully accepted.
It's interesting- hearing how the different children talk and approach the task- some are obviously pretty comfortable in the kitchen, some not, some used to trying new things and tasting new foods, some not. I was pleased that this time around, by the end of the day everyone had had at least a taste of a bun (there was one strong resister!). I wonder if any of them made Hot Cross buns today.

These are some of them waiting to be divi-ed up and delivered.
And all the gf 'not cross buns' stayed at our place.

And their number was rapidly depleted!

We're off on an excellent adventure.

2011-04-08T20:54:00.000+10:00

Earlier in the year, I wrote a list. I have been meaning to print it out but well, haven't yet. I look at it every now and then. I still like my list, and am still making progress on it.
Upcoming list action- riding from Beechworth to Bright. I hear it's lovely at this time of year. I am abit nervous- our family are more your, ahh, wanna be campers rather than the real deal... never really done it much (you?). And the cycling? It's a long way- I will report back next week!
Lucky we are going with lovely friends who are helping to get us organised, have arranged a tent for us to borrow and have been encouraging and practical. Great.

photo by lauricebryant- I looked up bicycle images in photobucket and liked this one. didn't say copyright so I assume I can share? (Advice welcome here, I don't know the rules)

I would love to be riding this fun looking bike- mine is someone rustier and without the basket.

I have been packing today, it's taking a while. I am not really interested in packing. I am interested in just hanging out, though, riding, chatting, laughing and being, with my family, with my friends.

And the night before we actually start camping we get to stay at Bec's house near Beechworth- it's awesome! (I reckon she'll let me put photos of it on my blog- so I had better remember to take some).

Back to it, pity that packing doesn't just do itself!

Winners

2011-04-03T14:09:00.001+10:00

I promised I would draw my 'giveaway' (well, donation inspired giveaway) today. Thank you to those who entered, I appreciate you getting behind the effort.

I took the least labour intensive (and probably least fun method!) to choose the winner and headed over to http://www.random.org/ .

I deleted comments that weren't entries and plugged the numbers in and Celeste's number came up as the winner.

Celeste is a 'real life' friend of mine, who I don't see half as often as I would like to. We went out for dinner a couple of weeks ago and mentioned something about my blog and she said 'I don't get blogs' or something like that. So I showed her my blog- and the most recent post was the giveaway- so I ~~bullied~~ encouraged her to enter. Celeste has lived in Japan at different times in her life so I am sure she has a greater understanding of this tragedy than I do.

Anyway, Celeste has a girl who would like a new dress but she is much smaller than the dress I am offering (I changed the rules during the week and said I would make a dress in the size that the winner chooses)- that means that the original give-away dress was still available.

What to do? A re-draw, how fun, two winners. Using the same (boring but efficient) method the next winner is Mary.

So Mary, this is off to live at your house

and Celeste, something else will be made for your girl to wear and twirl in this Autumn.

And if you are looking for another reason to inspire your donating head over to Nikki's place

Gratitude and thanks to my elders.

2011-04-03T13:52:00.000+10:00

The thing about the vermin issue, is that is has me slightly hysterically sorting through my crafty cupboards.
I probably needed an incentive to sort, discard and organise (would rather a positive incentive but anyway...). The fun thing (the only fun thing) about doing this is the rediscovering... I had forgotten that when my grandmother died a few years ago, I saved this from being chucked out...

I don't know whether it was intended to be a vest or a jumper. My grandma was an amazing knitter (and crafter in general). She made funny knitted toys, jumpers- I got to choose one- pattern and wool (she would hand us the Bendigo woollen mills colour chart- they must have been around for years)- every few years. She had at least 13 grandchildren so I reckon she must have been knitting fairly constantly.
She was absolutely of sound mind until her death but the preceding years had seen her eyesight fail severely and that meant the she couldn't read (she was a librarian who loved books) or craft. It must have been extremely frustrating, but I didn't appreciate that at the time. Her work was fine and detailed. I don't know what ply this wool is but it seems pretty thin to me!

The other funny thing is I reckon this would have been an unfinished object for years. Before 'bright colours for babies' was 'okay'...maybe it's been hanging around since the 70's- it's a very 70's kind of green, which the photos don't replicate. So, when I rediscovered it this morning it was in the same place as this;

MY unfinished vest! Started in a burst of enthusiasm last year, or the year before, for the young girl- who is now 8 and won't fit into this even if I did finish it. I have the pattern but have no idea what size I was making. I really need to document my projects better (I have thought that on more than one occasion!).
I wonder what I would find in my mothers unfinished project pile. I suspect I am a third generation project un-finisher...in our defence the 3 of us would have a very serious pile of finished projects if they were all in the same place and time.

Vermin...

2011-03-30T18:08:00.000+11:00

If they can do this to my lino...

what might they do to this...

I hate to think. But I am onto it...in the way of big plastic tubs with tight lids.

By the way, I have changed the rules. A few people emailed me and said nice idea but they don't want a size 7-8 dress. Fair enough. I will make you a smaller one if you would like that and you win.

Giveaway- your money for a good cause and I might giveaway this dress to you!

2011-03-24T09:40:00.005+11:00

EDITED TO ADD- I have changed the rules, I can do that you know. If you win and you want a different size I will make the same pattern up in a different size (1/2 is the smallest size and 9/10 is the biggest)

A little while ago I was lucky enough to win this gorgeous dress (thanks Karen) while at the same time contributing to raising funds for flood effecting people in Queensland.

Now it's my turn to offer something up for the Japan Quake appeal.
My contribution is this wrap dress, it's made using the Farbenmix 'Anna' pattern and is size 7/8- but that is give or take a lot because of the nature of the pattern- it ties at the front (you don't see the front tie) and at the back- so will be longer on a smaller child and tunic top style on a larger/ taller child. My daughter is a reasonably tall 8 year old, and it's slightly above her knees in this photo (the dress is new- she's only wearing it for modelling purposes)

The detail across the bottom- would have been nice if I ironed it...

The instructions below are basically swiped off Karen's blog, but I am pretty sure she'll be cool with that (and I will tell her).

This giveaway is open to everyone, around the corner or around the world.

I will cover all postage costs regardless of who wins.

To enter this giveaway you must click this link and donate $5 to the Red Cross Japan and Pacific Disaster (this link goes to Australian Red Cross but I don't mind really who you donate to as long as you have proof of donation eg. receipt number, you could also donate to Save the Children for example, they do paypal)

You may enter as many times as you like but each entry / donation must have a separate receipt number. (eg: donate $5 ten times if you want to donate $50- then comment ten times with your receipt number, I know this is cumbersome - but that's how it works!)

After you have done this, return here and leave your comment with your receipt number.

If you don't have an account to leave a comment you can click on my profile and email me your name and receipt number and I will comment for you.

Please feel free to circulate the link to this page to anyone you think might be interested.
I will use a random number generator to draw a winner on Sunday 3rd April (my time in Victoria, Australia)

Together all our small donations can make a huge difference.
Also- you need to leave me an email address where I can contact you if you win.

I know we have been called on to donate alot already this year, and I am not going to go on a rant about what you can or can't, should or shouldn't do with your money, but the Red Cross 'by line' is 'The Power of Humanity' and I find that encouraging in hard times like these, so go on, do what you can!

More giving required

2011-03-19T11:20:00.000+11:00

My blog header promises "Crafty fun and the goodness of Home Economics"...well, there has been a bit of that lately, but if you look at my right sidebar you'll see that I am also interested in "being human and caring for others, being part of a generous community, doing what you can in a difficult situation" and the like.

To this end, I would like to direct you over to the master list for the Japan Quake Appeal coordinated by Jojoebi at A Bit of This and A Bit of That. Recently we crafty bloggers and our friends raised nearly $100,000 for the Queensland floods (cooperatively through putting up auction/ raffle items and donating money to Red Cross for our chance to win said items) . Legends!

I reckon we can pull it together again. Head over and donate some money if you can, or put up an item to raffle. Jodie is leading by example there.

Japan

2011-03-13T15:03:00.001+11:00

I don't have much to say, in the face of more devastation. It's hard to hear about, hard to watch, and for me, hard to imagine or comprehend.
But I just read this and thought it was good stuff to be reminded of.
Take care of you and yours.

Sincerely grateful

2011-03-12T22:18:00.001+11:00

This is my first 'grateful' entry, although I have read lots over the times and other peoples gratitude is very grounding and lovely.

I am grateful for my son, his health and his initiative
(and my daughter of course, but this isn't her story)

This week he went on school camp, to Canberra, the bus took about 8 hours apparently.
I was anxious, he was away Monday to Friday- the longest he has been away from home (he's 10, in grade 5).
I was anxious because he has food allergies- he has coeliac disease (allergy to gluten which is found in wheat, oats, barley and rye)- not immediately life threatening, but eating those foods can make him sick.
He also has a severe, life threatening nut allergy and requires an epipen (adrenalin injection). So I was entrusting him into the care of other people (get the nervousness?).
I rang the camp, I spoke to the camp manager. He assured me that nut and gluten free dietary requirements were 'easy'- I felt like he had his head around the issues and felt loads more confident about sending him off.

My son got home yesterday. Exhausted, he'd had a good time. Within 10 minutes of him being home, though, he's told me that 'they gave me a fruit and nut bar today'.
WHAT?- that's me on the inside, on the outside I keep my voice normal (well try) and try to gently get more information...apparently the other kids in his grade got a little pack of Arnott's bickies but because he had special dietary requirements he got a "fruit and NUT bar". I wonder what genius didn't realise that a fruit and nut bar might not be the best snack for a 10 year old with a life threatening nut allergy. I am horrified.

But, the GRATEFUL bit- my son thought it was odd, read the label (BLESS HIM) and told the teacher that the camp site had given him food that he couldn't have. I am so thankful he showed initiative and was smart and well equipped to deal with a very dodgy situation.

I am so so thankful he read that label.

I will be contacting the camp site on Tuesday...wonder how that conversation will go.

Softies for the children of Christchurch

2011-03-03T11:08:00.000+11:00

This woman is busy coordinating a softie drive for the children of Christchurch. I appreciate her efforts, thanks Leonie.
If these little guys can help comfort a small person in the middle of turmoil then me making them is more than worth it.

and from a different angle

This elephant is made using an Audrey and Maude pattern "Edward/ Elouise" I think. I gave him bigger eyes. I constantly have softie's eye issues. Oh well, practice, I spose.
He will be accompanied by a few angels, these are a Rosalie Quinlin design, and the perfect size for small hands.

"We'll have lots to eat this winter, won't we Mother?"

2011-03-01T12:17:00.000+11:00

Last December, Nat took me around the sights of Washington and, amidst the pinch myself 'is that really the United States Capitol' kind of moments, I took this photo at the National Museum of American History.
It made me smile and think of home. I love this poster!

Mr. Apple solved the tomato bottling malaise of a few days ago ...bottled in two litre bottles! So now we have 11 litres of sauce (surely that will do us for the year?) in massive bottles that make me laugh.

Our 'larder' is looking pretty healthy

Thanks to those who commented on my other post, written when I was 'over it'.

Yes, I do (most of the time) think it's worth it.

Grow your own

Can your own!

Autumns well done, so well done

2011-03-01T11:35:00.000+11:00

Again I say, to quote Echo and the Bunnymen "Everybody's got their own good reason why their favourite season is their favourite season"
Happy happy Autumn everyone.
Heck, in celebration, why don't I try something that I haven't done before.
Here's one for the eighties chicks!

you say 'tomateo', I say 'I don't want to see another one for a while'...I mean, I say 'tomarto'

2011-02-27T21:10:00.000+11:00

Most of the people who read my blog don't know me 'in real life'. I could be telling you stories and you'd never know- especially because, according to my 'bloggy stats' I have had visits from such places as Ireland, Poland, Russia, Spain, Germany and South Korea (thank you, I hope you ended up here on purpose and enjoyed your visit- and came back). What I am suggesting is that, unlike some of the wonderful bloggy friends I have already met, I probably wont be meeting a lot of you in the near future.
But, with this blogging caper, there is trust involved, don't you think?
Having said that, you know I am not a brilliant gardener. In some ways, I would love to be. I have tried. I am just not really into it. We had 'family tomato picking' morning yesterday, we picked over 20 kg's I reckon and I tried to be cheerful, but I tended to agree with the 8 year old who, after sticking her hand through a rotten tomato on the bush exclaimed 'seriously, I am finding this pretty disgusting'! But we did all chip in and the tomatoes got picked.

I have processed most of them- 24 fowlers bottles (size 20 if you are into fowlers) - I cooked up a few onions, chopped up the tomotoes, whacked them in a BIG pot with a big bunch of herbs- thyme, rosemary, sage and a couple of bay leaves, cooked it down for a while, then added a few cloves of garlic, a touch of sugar (because someone told me once that I should) and a bit of sea salt. Then bottled them and processed them in the Fowlers Vacola preserving unit.

I also made a big pot of tomato sauce- which (headache) isn't bottled yet...I am over it now! We tend to do preserving on a ridiculously grand scale and it wears me out!

Oh, and about that trust thing , I am very smart and funky, always wear very cool clothes, very fit, and rather lean with endless energy...in case those of you who I wont get to meet in the very near future were wondering...and for those who have already met me- shhhhh!

Under Sara's instruction

2011-02-10T21:57:00.000+11:00

Sara's son has a particular lunch box. She made a lovely bag for him to put it in. We admired it, and she wrote up a tutorial.
I don't have that same Tupperware container- so perhaps it's slightly strange that I make the 'purpose built cover' for a container I don't own- but hey, remember I made the lap top bag without owning a lap top!
I made it over the past few days, and here's what I came up with

I did a few things differently than Sara, for a start I stuffed up the measurements abit (that was a mistake), I quilted the flap bit because I used Pellon (H640?) which was a bit thicker than what Sara used. I used a medium weight woven interfacing on all the pieces for a bit of stabilisation and a nice 'smooth' look, I used velcro for closures.

I like the shape, it kind of reminds me of a builders toolbox or something.
I haven't decided what I will use mine for yet.

Cute fabric, don't you think? (many already know that I am a bit partial to an apple on a piece of fabric). My friend Cheryl bought it for me- she got it at Spotlight.

Gold

2011-02-08T22:13:00.000+11:00

I have mentioned here before that asparagus is my very favourite vegie.
I usually say that during our short asparagus season.
Corn has a relatively short season as well.

Now I can't decide- fresh picked corn is really something else.

Delicious.

Number 22. Check.

2011-02-05T23:02:00.000+11:00

I just reread the list.
A few people suggested printing it out.
I am going to do that because, although still aspiring to these things I had forgotten about them (like, regular stretching). Oops.
But looky looky- number 22 gets a big tick.

again it's a cross over (with number 15 at least) because it involved very nice time- being present and laughing and creating with my children (Mr. Apple also joined us for part of it fixing all our bike tyres and chatting and offering creative advice).

This is the 8 year olds effort, she is pretty happy with it.

And the 10 year olds, he enjoyed it too, but was pretty disappointed that a leg fell off before the grouting process.

Overall, a great project to do with this age children. Probably gloves wouldn't have gone astray, I got a few cuts on my hands. Mostly when I was using smashed tea cups or plates rather than tiles because I think they are finer. I wish you could see how big they are- those top two are on pretty big pavers, I need an 'in context' photo- but they aren't getting put in the garden until the grout has been dry for a week or so because they will only get rained on it they go outside now.

2011-02-04T19:32:00.000+11:00

A few weeks ago this was put up in a fundraising raffle.

(Photo flogged off Nikki's blog- but I will tell her!)

I first saw this bag in July last year at the quilt exhibition in Melbourne, I am pretty sure it was on the Kelani stall.
I loved it. Obviously they wouldn't sell me the sample so I was inspired to buy the pattern and kit. It became an unfinished project- that initial burst of enthusiasm wanned because I forgot to cut out the pocket when I cut out the rest of the pattern pieces and had gone as far as I could go without it (does that kind of thing happen to anyone else?).
I tried to win the bag but another lucky person did (I really hope they appreciate it!).
BUT- I have been inspired to drag out my lap top bag and 'first day back' now applies to my children at school and me at the sewing machine.
It's finished.

There is something very satisfying about completing a long desired project. I enjoyed learning lots of new techinques and I am reminded that I do love Nikki's patterns because they are full of tips and tricks.
Apparently I have 'graduated' to 'intermediate'. Nice one!

The inside flap detail- I wonder what that is covering up- I forget!

Is it weird that I am very keen on this bag but don't own a laptop?

The rag rug

2011-01-28T12:11:00.000+11:00

One of the things I want to do this year is finish a rag rug. I have admired them for a long time and always had it pegged for a 'one day' project (same basket as a hexagon quilt).
I have been plaiting for a while. I cut up strips of old clothes, old sheets and some fabric that I realised I would never sew with. I am sticking with a bit of a colour scheme for this one (yes, I think there will be more).

I started sewing the plait together the other day. Hmm, maybe I was a bit premature in suggesting there will be more- or maybe my 'rug' will turn out the size of a placement.
Or maybe the whole project will calm me down and help me learn to meditate, enjoy the process...you see, that sewing bit is going to be quite repetitive.
Ooooh, but the end result will be rather lovely I think.

Happy as a pig in mud

2011-01-25T12:12:00.000+11:00

These little guys arrived at our place on the weekend

They are so cute, you can't see from the photos just how small they are, but they are very funny and lovely. We are going to give them a very happy life- just look at their playground. They can play hide and seek the grass is so long, they have a mud hole and a 'piggy shelter' as sleeping quarters.
And, as we are raising these pigs for meat, we will give them a 'good death' too...
Onto other bits of the farm...
Some of the stone fruit is rotting really quickly after we pick it because of the humidity this year. But not these heroes.

Licola blood plums. I think blood plums are my favourite stone fruit, it's a toss up with white peaches. Mr A's favourite are the green gauge plum, but they aren't ready yet.

The blackberries are still going crazy. It would be easier to think about jamming them if it wasn't so hot. At the moment, we are freezing them to add to baking or milkshakes when they are no longer in season (and eating them fresh)

We appreciate the fruit and vegies (and the farmer!), and are thankful that we are not flood affected. Are thinking of those who are.
Farming. There are a lot of ups and downs. Last year we copped it with one day of hail which really put a massive dent in our fruit tree season, and recently we have been threatened by locusts and water.
I heard a discussion on the radio about people having to come to terms with blemished fruit- I tell you what guys, if you did a blindfolded taste test of our fruit versus 'perfect looking' shop fruit, I would confidently bet that 'home grown' fruit would win every time (many of our varieties aren't commercial because they don't store well or look beautiful but taste- oh my goodness- does not compare, so good!)
Phew, now I feel like I have got a bit passionate and 'het up'...so let me change the subject.

My friend Del said I haven't posted much about my sewing on the blog lately. Is there where I confess that my sewing machine has not been out once since I have been back. I have cut a dress out and it's patiently waiting to be sewn. But today, it's all about smashing tiles and plates for mosaic tiles, at our place...yep, still school holidays in this neck of the woods!

The wonder of pomegranates and a winner...

2011-01-16T22:28:00.000+11:00

I love the idea of an 'edible' garden. Pomegranates are a great example of where productive food plants and 'ornamentals' meet. These are so good looking!

Thanks to those of you who entered the giveaway.
I used the random number generator thingo which chose comment number 6 the winner, which means, Karen wins Corinne's book. Hooray for you Karen!

Art Room

2011-01-13T18:07:00.001+11:00

Before I go on, see that button on the right- the pink umbrella- well, crafty bloggers are pulling it together, coordinated by Toni, to raise funds for the Queensland flood appeal.
On the weekend, Toni will be putting up a final list of participants in the action- people are donating things left, right and centre for auctions and 'raffles'- there are heaps, so go and have a poke around.

Now, about that 'art room', well it was my kitchen actually.
We got out the paints, the canvases, a bit of fabric, the brushes, the bubble wrap and Kelly Rae Roberts book for guidance and played...

This is what I came up with. The fish I made a long time ago using cooked salt dough. Why I still have it, I don't know, but it came in useful. The process was really fun, and I don't mind my 'end product'.
I don't know about the colour of the fish- I wish the photo showed it better, it's quite shimmery and has this bronze kind of embossing powder on it.
I ripped the fabric (cotton voile), scrunched it up and saturated it with pva glue and plonked it on and kind of manipulated it around, then added a bit of paint when it was a bit drier.

The fish has no eye. I am abit nervous about doing eyes...
The background is some of the fantastic lavender I harvested last week.

I think this contributes to numbers 11, 15 and 21 on the list. So that's a bonus!

List action- and a giveaway

2011-01-11T17:19:00.000+11:00

As per number 27 on the list, these are off to the op shop. I love them but don't need to hang on to them. I have a wonderful local library if I need to access them. These books are better for my mental health if they are not cluttering up my bookshelf. And, I don't feel too silly saying that because lots of people said they 'got' my list

and this is off to one of you, if you are interested-

It was great- and slightly scary, funny but helpful. I have read it and am ready to pass it on.
Leave a comment if you want it and I will do a random number thingamy to chose a winner on Sunday 16th. This one is just for people living in Australia- besides anything else, if does contain daggy Australian references! I think Corinne Grant is around my age (I am 38) because I understood and laughed and cringed at her fashion references and many other experiences (she's a northern Victorian girl who took off to Melbourne as well- except I came back!).

The list

2011-01-09T22:13:00.002+11:00

The list- in no particular order
It's not a list of resolutions, I don't like them, because if I don't do them I am mean to myself and that's not pleasant. This is a 'things to do' list which I really enjoyed thinking about and I could probably add loads of things to, but it will do for now. Things I aspire to, or ways I want to be.

(There are other players who have inspired me with their lists, you'll find them at Tinniegirls place by clicking on the link above)

look into peoples eyes when I am talking to them- not in a creepy way, just give my attention
go outside more often
put things back where they belong after I have finished with them (hmm, be tidier)
finish my sentences (I tend to drift off, forgetting that there is a listener involved who can't necessarily read my thoughts)
swim in the ocean. Swim anywhere, actually, but the ocean is always great.
walk 10km all in one go
ride the Beechworth- Bright rail trail with our friends.
read a book every month (at least), and stretch myself in my choices of book
make an effort to spend time with my friends
practice being in the present- be mindful- no need to drift off
do something creative everyday
make yoghurt instead of buying it
write (and don't forget to post) letters regularly
have more hand made Christmas decorations than store bought
play with my children
cook with my children
listen to music- always enjoy it when I do, just forget to put it on
smile and laugh- a lot
take more photos (see number 3. give the camera a home so I can always find it!)
write a tutorial for my blog
make some collages
make mosaic steps for my garden
start a hexagon quilt
finish a rag rug
exercise at least three times a week
go to bed earlier and get up earlier
own less books at the end of the year than at the start of the year
use fresh herbs in my cooking
eat seasonally from the garden and don't whinge about having a hankering for broccoli or asparagus when it's not time!
grow tulips
sew some clothing for me
keep a 'thoughts to get back to' note book. And get back to them.
spend less time on the computer...
attend the newly initiated 'first Sunday book club' with Mr. Apple (it's only us two!)
Generally make time for, prioritise and nurture my close relationships
drink more water
do regular stretching or yoga
chuck stuff that I do not love or use out
keep a journal
take the children to the snow
go camping
spend some time in silence each day
eat when I am hungry, stop when I am full
be generous
contribute to my community
be brave

I am adding these to here because they like lists too!

Sweet as apple pie (if I may say so myself)

2011-01-05T23:00:00.001+11:00

It was about 1975- I was 3 and I might just have been at my cutest! How about my older brother- in his matching mauve outfit including floral tie, white shoes and socks.

Gorgeous- and probably a good thing he doesn't read my blog or I might get in trouble!

What was the go with matching- come on, 'fess up- do any of you who are mothers do it?

Still going okay on the crafty thing each day and yesterdays challenge involved old photos which led me to my parents house and to these treasures...

Hand knits and home made jeans.

I wonder what my daughter will be saying in 35 years about the absolutely fabulous and very funky 'homemade clothes' I am currently providing her to wear.
She'll probably just marvel at how cute she was (and perhaps question my taste!).

So pleased that ric rac made an appearance.

Yes, I had very little, very short, very fine, very blonde hair and some suggested I looked like a boy. And, yes, he is my brother by birth with the very same parents, and people often say Junior Apple looks quite like him. Genetics can be fascinating!

Abundance

2011-01-03T16:52:00.001+11:00

It's that time of the year again...

Destination currently unknown- jam, dried, bottled? A fair share will be eaten fresh but there are a lot more coming, and other stone fruit as well, like these nectarines.

These onions and garlic are just the tip of the vegie iceberg.

Harvest time. Life is good. Thanks Vegie garden man, Mr. Apple (that's one of my ways of saying I am crap at the garden- I am often great at the cooking/ preserving end though!)

Best wishes and high hopes

2011-01-01T22:22:00.002+11:00

That's best wishes to you for a really fun and fulfilling 2011.
I really like the start of a new year, it feels like a clean slate to me- full of potential.
I have read many a conversation about inspiration, copying, influence etc in the crafty world.
What's original, what's flogging someone else's bright idea, what is being inspired?
I am a bit of a crafty dabbler and when I was in America I met Kelly Rae Roberts' work for the first time and was quite drawn to it and have since purchased this book

It's interesting and thoughtful and probably what I am up to right now.
Getting to the core; of me, of my craft, of the connection between the two.
There are a lot of words and thoughts- I like words and thoughts.
As well as this she shows how to do stuff (techniques). I think she is generous with sharing this stuff- there are several contributors who also share their tips and techniques.
I never use paint in my craft and like the idea of having 'instructions/ suggestions' for what to do with it and how to get certain effects. I am looking forward to getting dirty with paint! I am looking forward to paint and fabric combinations.

And, on the first day of the year, full of hope and desiring some rhythm I am also planning to do this in 2011.

Another book I bought in America (I did ask why, as I was trying to stuff everything into my case to come home!).
It has a different activity for each day with some routine- like, Mondays is always a journalling activity, one day is about found objects, one day is about personal history, one day is an un-crafty thing (which they say much more eloquently but I don't have the book here to help me out).

So I am looking forward to thinking (and not thinking just crafting) as I discover more of what I like and am drawn too, what stresses me out rather than fizzles me in a happy way (you know, when you are crafting and loving it and getting energy from it). What makes me feel like it's teaching me patience, perseverance and stretching me. The core.

Last night I went to our local New Year's Eve carnival and visited a small, rural art gallery/ space/ collective that has just opened in my town (well, I don't live in a town, but the closest town). I had a great conversation with a bloke (who is one of the drivers of the project) about art and crafts, community building, intergenerational opportunities through art and craft, health etc.
It got me going, I tell you. I love that stuff!
And I found out that my small town is going to have some pretty cool creative workshops this year and monthly live music. Nice one.
Hooray for local community minded people who have energy to share and put into these kind of projects.
Here's to a great one, I hope you have high hopes for 2011 as well.

By the wayI liked Kelly's post about what's okay and not okay about replicating her artwork- see it here (didn't tell you till the end so you would keep reading about me!)

Feels like a dream!

2010-12-27T22:04:00.000+11:00

3 weeks ago I was in New York, it was snowing lightly and I was all rugged up as I sat on the Staten Island ferry for the best (free) view of the Statue of Liberty I was going to get. She was smaller than I had imagined (well, compared to the skyscrapers of Manhattan you'd look small too!).

I stood there feeling happy, excited and like I should pinch myself- it's a strange moment, staring at an image that you have been exposed to at different times, in different ways over many years. I had several of those moments during my trip.

Anyone else tempted to murmur 'Run Forest'...

Fast forward to now and here I sit and type, at my home- a small farm, in north eastern Victoria, experiencing Summer, having just celebrated an Aussie Christmas and that three weeks seems like a lifetime ago- either that or a dream- but it can't be because I have photos and memories.

Chicago from the 95th floor of the John Hancock building. LOVE Chicago.

I feel like I have a lot of 'processing' to do, as I think about my trip, but some things I know already.

My family are fantastic and I missed seeing them every day.
My family are fantastic and resilient and I don't need to be in control (I will need to remember that!)
Mr. Apple really is King of the Kitchen and produced some very fancy desserts- so I will try not to hog the kitchen.
I am proud of myself and have been reminded that I CAN do 'things'! (My self belief had been somewhat battered and bruised after long term chronic illness-the symptoms of which were mostly pain, fatigue and depression and abit of anxiety)
I had days where I loved having no responsibilities, just me to look after and the thrill of travelling and exploring- I felt young and adventurous.
I love the sort of travelling that involves people not just places. It was great to see Kate's life in Deerfield, Nat's in Centreville and to meet Tim and Talida and stay with them in Long Island City.
It is nice to be home, where I belong (and to sleep in my own bed)
I had forgotten how unsettling travelling is and it's weird to have have had big experiences that weren't shared with anyone from home- that contributes to the dreamlike state!

I didn't have a 'blog break' on purpose, I have just been recovering!

I have missed my blog- and yours as well and I do look forward to some kind of blogging rythm this coming year. I love the idea of routine and rythm, it certainly doesn't come naturally to me.

Things in common

2010-11-23T16:50:00.000+11:00

I spent a wonderful few hours at one of Kate's favourite places in this city, the other day.
Chicago Botanic Gardens.
From my short visit, I got the impression they were doing some pretty interesting things.

I was reminded of another Kate and her soil fella. I live with a soil fella too. I saw these things at the garden and they made me smile and think fondly of my soil fella and home.

Bee boxes in the apple orchard area.

Some things are the same the world over, people are growing vegies and caring for their soil.

Some things are very, very different though...

I didn't come to Chicago to blog but...

2010-11-19T14:26:00.000+11:00

I really have been doing some crafting lately, I just haven't blogged about it because it was a surprise for Kate.

This is my god daughter, Angie sitting on the quilt I made for Kate and gave to her when I arrived last night- the beginnings did feature on this blog a long while ago.
Hooray for a finished project!

This is Angie and her twin sister, Grace in the pj bottoms I made for them. I don't always understand what the girls and their brother, Dante are saying just yet- getting my head around the accent and excitedly fast kid speak but they thought it was pretty cool that I made them some pj's and Gracie said 'can you teach me to sew?'. It was nice- so I am thinking of quick beginner hand sewing project for a 7 year old. Any ideas are welcome. I thought maybe a little bag.

I tell you, 28 hours in transit may have been fun when I was 19 but I am not as young as I used to be! My trip involved a run at LA airport to catch my connecting flight and an injured calf muscle, which may have looked amusing to any onlookers but didn't feel amusing to me. I am not really having a big whinge, I am really thankful to have travelled safe and appreciate the priveldge of being here.
Look at this very cute little dude I saw on my walk this morning

Apparently, even the skip bins are patriotic over here...

I found out today that some people deep fry their Thanksgiving turkey.
That cracks me up- pretty massive thing to be deep frying, don't you reckon?

Up and coming Kitchen King

2010-11-08T21:40:00.000+11:00

I came home from work today and found this

Highly impressive. Mr. A explained to me that is wasn't just any chocolate cake/ brownie recipe- it involved two different types of flour, several bowls, whipping egg whites, melting chocolate- and he adapted a non gluten free recipe to be gluten free. I was very surprised!

He's practicing for being Head Chef when I am away in Chicago (I leave next week).
I think they will be well feed...

I also think he will be very popular...

Hooray for that time of the year again.

2010-11-07T10:44:00.002+11:00

That time of the year when my trips to the supermarket are reduced, I don't have to spend too much time thinking about what the kids can have for 'fruit break' because I can just send them out to the garden.

These are the early cherries and the ladder is a permanent fixture there at the moment.

The strawberries have just started and are loaded this year.

Mulberry time as well.
And the apricots, peaches and apples are coming along nicely- still abit of a way off.
The veggie department isn't too bad either:

The rows are: potatoes, quince trees (for next years fruit tree season), onions, cherry trees (likewise) and broccoli.
That's the paddock where business and pleasure meet!

I love artichokes to eat, and think they are beautiful ornamentals in the garden. Preparing them though, still is a major challenge for me- seems like a lot of faffing around needed- I sit outside with a bucket with either lemon juice or vinegar and cut them and trim them- put them straight in the bucket (because that's what I read to do- I think it must stop them going black), then steam them and serve with olive oil, balsamic and salt. I don't do it very often and am open to suggestions about artichoke preparation.
Asparagus, on the other hand, which I don't have a photo of- well, it doesn't get much simpler- minimal effort- big result. I am biased- asparagus is my favourite veggie.
I should add- Mr. Apple has full credit for all this amazing produce we are now enjoying. I do nothing except herbs, and 'leafy greens', the occasional pick and a lot of food preparation.
We really do appreciate it.

Decison made, oven installed, food prepared.

2010-11-03T22:13:00.001+11:00

Awhile ago our oven died.
As a result, we have been using this

and this

for about 3 months.
That's nuts.
If only I knew it would take about an hour to choose a new one and (the next day) 10 minutes for an electrician (friendly neighbour- who really is an electrician) to install- we would have done it 3 months ago!
We didn't and this arrived out our house on Saturday

It has been running hot since then.
I do love a bit of a bake off.
An oven and stove, combined with garden fresh produce- it's amazing what great food can be cooked.
Take our dinner tonight. A two pot dish.

I made pasta, I used a recipe from Stephanie Alexander's Kitchen Garden cookbook-
it was sort of like gnocchi

Pasta
250 grams plain flour (I used gluten free)
100grams ricottoa
1 teaspoon salt
1 egg (mine happened to be a double yolker- thanks clever chook)
2 tablespoons water.
Knead it together, let it rest for about 10 minutes, roll it into the shape of a snake, cut small pieces and then press your thumb in so it's the shape of a turtles shell (without the turtle in it).
Cook it in salted boiling water until it floats and serve immediately with your favourite sauce.

Broccoli and Asparagus 'sauce' (not very saucey...)
I made up a 'sauce' based on the vegies available in our garden, this is vaguely what I used
2 quite small heads of broccoli (first of the season)
About 8 spears asparagus
Steam both these vegies and set aside for a tick!
Dice two rashers bacon and fry, add about half a cup of chicken stock or white wine and using a wooden spoon stir any 'cooked on' bits of bacon so the bottom of the pan is cleaner than it was. Add it broccoli and asparagus, 2 cloves chopped garlic, about 2 tablespoons sour cream, handful of sage and parsley.
I then added the pasta into the pot with about 1/2 tablespoon of excellent olive oil and mixed through.
Yuu could serve it with parmesan. Or include fetta. Pancetta instead of bacon. Then world is your oyster.
If only I had a photo. Or better, if only I could give you a taste through the screen- in true Jetson style!
It was fantastic and everyone was pretty happy with it.
Hooray for fresh veggies and the new stove.

My 4 things

2010-10-25T19:00:00.001+11:00

4 Things I always carry
Nothing. No hand bag- and I have tried. I hate carrying things.

so the 4 Things I often carry are

Keys- but they are put down at the earliest possible opportunity. There are 2 keys on my keyring, my car and my work. Our house doesn't lock...
Mobile phone- I do have one, but like the keys it tends to get put down (and forgotten about, much to the frustration of anyone trying to ring me. Of the, about 3 people who have the number). I think it's in the car at the moment.
Handcream- I love hand cream, and lip balm
My wallet- because well, you want to be prepared don't you?

4 Things that are in my bedroom

A jolly big mess including rotary cutter and a pile of fabric (why in the bedroom? Because I was 'tidying' the lounge room, obviously...)
Far too many odd socks
A suitcase waiting to go to Chicago with me!
A Himalayan Salt lamp. I am not sure whether or not it enhances my wellbeing but it does look nice.

4 Things I would like to do but haven't done yet

Get fit! Really, I would like to.
Get a scooter- the vespa type. Mr A seems to think I am joking and that this may be slightly impractical (my work is 50 km's away). I probably am dreaming abit.
Go on the Indian Pacific- train from Sydney to Perth. I used to work at V/Line and got quite into train travel but never took full advantage of the annual 'free rail' pass I was offered because my health wasn't really up to it at the time.
I'm with Sal, be a grandma. I think it seems like an excellent gig.

4 Things that you don't know about me

I camped out for tickets to see Bryon Adams during study week (SWOTVAC) at Uni. I wasn't a big fan but some (like my old teachers) might say I am 'easily distracted' and hey, my friends 'needed' company. We got third row seats and I caught the drummers drumstick. No, I don't still have it.
I was a bridesmaid 3 times in the course of 7 weeks one Summer many years ago. It was the mid nineties and the photos reflect that. I had curly hair (the bride has apologised), a french roll (including a million bobby pins and 3 cans of hair spray) and straight hair with 'rollettes' and flowers (that was the best option, that was for Kate's wedding. She's the one that I am taking the abovementioned suitcase to see)
I hate waiting. I don't like that I am no good at waiting. I think and hope I am getting a bit better.
I was in Germany in 1989 when the Berlin Wall came down. I walked in to the lounge room and my host father (I was an exchange student) was weeping in front of the teli saying 'We never thought this would happen'. I went to Berlin and have souveniered a piece of that very wall. It was amazing and so much fun.

4 Things I often wonder

Whether organisational skills can be learnt (or if I should just sigh in resignation and give up now)
Where is 'X' (my keys, wallet, phone...etc). About those organisational skills, hmmm.
What I am going to be when I grow up
Why didn't I go on the Indian Pacific for free when I had the chance
Where does the sky end?
Why aren't the choices that are best for me the ones that come naturally? It would be much easier.
What time is it?
Where did the time go?
When did my ability to count to 4 go missing?

Thanks for the questions Cath you'll find more people answering these very same question over at Cath's place.

A bit of a shir never hurt anyone.

2010-10-24T21:56:00.001+11:00

Some Sunday sewing happened at my place today. Along with a million visitors and crazy children who decided it was warm enough for a swim in the channel.
This is what got produced:

Here's a close up of the 'skirt' fabric.

And this one:

The red is 'Hello Kitty' fabric, that, along with the 'Love is' fabric was a good find in an op shop.

They are both going to pretty 'cheery' girls, so I hope they like them. I really like this patten. It's called 'Claire' by Sandi Henderson and I have made it repeatedly. This style is a tunic top which sadly isn't big enough for my girl anymore (despite her modelling it for me)- I could alter it abit but I think she is ready for a different style! It could be a great dress which becomes a top, because the shirring is so stretchy and would fit say, a 3 year old as a dress and a 7 year old as a top, I reckon.
I love shirring. My favourite bit is at the end, after I have sewn the rows of elastic in, when I steam it to death and it all shrivels up and becomes beautifully elastic-y.
Isn't sewing great?

Purple is the new black...

2010-10-14T21:07:00.000+11:00

In my world, anyway.
I bought some thermals to take to Chicago with me- in 5 weeks (I know, Kate, you told me I wouldn't need them- but I am keen to at least try and go outside!).
Pure wool, made in Australia. Lovely. Creamy colour. Not lovely. I know- it's underwear so who cares, but I am thinking, leggings poking out beneath my black pants (rather than my cream underwear).
So I thought I would dye them black. I didn't want to make the water too hot though, weary of felting my new (rather expensive) long johns! It did cross my mind that it might be tricky to try and dye wool black and I was interested to see what I got.

Purple. It doesn't look like it in the photo but it is actually a nice even dye.
I did have a rather odd conversation with Mr. A about it though.
"I tried to dye my thermals black and they went purple"
"Oh. Cool"
"Yeesss. I am happy with that"
I am just not sure how he knew it would be "cool"!

Spring springing and bees (hopefully not stinging!)

2010-10-12T20:13:00.002+11:00

It's really nice to see these when I look out the back door.

There are loads more on their way, along with heap of poppies. I can't remember what colour they are going to be, so that will be a fun surprise! Heaps of calendula flowers too- the strong orange really looks striking with the cornflowers. I love flowers.
So do these guys...

A swarm of bees (not from our hives, don't know where they are from) are making themselves at home on one of our peach trees.

Ahh, the wonders of nature!

Prairie Girl

2010-10-09T11:24:00.000+11:00

Maybe I just bought this pattern for the name- Prairie Girl. Sounds fun and carefree to me! No really, I liked the content as well. This was some of my school holiday sewing and she loves it. The pattern was pretty easy to follow and I am happy with the dress.
Although my friend suggested that she's too young for this style because it has a high waistline and it sort of gathered under the bust and she is 8 (and has no 'bust'). I didn't have a problem with it until she said that but now I am abit doubtful. Miss A loves it -she picked the fabric (I was happy to get a bit of Sandi Henderson's 'Henna Garden' in for the sleeves, tie and that middle bit- okay, in the pattern it's called a 'dickie'- who knew?!).

The way she is ~~standing~~ posing in this photo does make the bodice look abit ill fitting...hmmm, maybe it's just abit big. I am open to suggestions.

I really love it when my children love wearing clothes I have made them.
I remember hating being dressed in 'home made clothes'. And, (embarrassing confession) once insisted that my mother embroider two little 'Hang Ten' (cool brand at the time) feet on a jumper she made when I was in Grade 5. In retrospect, they were so wonky, obviously a home made rip off, but I was pretty chuffed!

With love and fondness

2010-10-06T21:11:00.002+11:00

A grandfather gone.
Mr Robust and Healthy 96 year old grandfather in law died last week, surrounded by people he loved and who loved him, including us. Very sad but also very special. He went down hill quite quickly, hadn't really been sick and had spoken briefly to us the day before he died.
That suited him, I think. He would have hated to be 'frail, aged'.

Some things that made him very special, certainly one out of the box!

He was a fantastic baker and was known for his sponges, shortbread, scones, preserves (he has answered talkback callers on ABC radio on the topic of preserves, and been interviewed by Matt Preston for the Age Epicure). And he was very generous with it, I think someone at the funeral said they recieved some shortbread two weeks ago.
Up until the last few years he picked his own fruit at 'pick your own' places, to preserve.
He barracked for the Hawks before they were the Hawks- apparently they started out as the 'May Flowers' or something equally amusing in the 1920's or so
At 96 he saw his 9 year old great grandson play footy at the MCG (Auskick) and was proud!
This year he had about 156 daffodils bloom in his garden and a very healthy crop of silverbeet- in the inner-ish suburbs of Melbourne.
He cut articles of interest out of papers and sent them to us, accompanied by a letter in his fine handwriting on his personalised stationery
He was always immaculately groomed, often with a tie and suit jacket.
He was really involved in certain aspects of his community and was interested in people.

I think he was an inspiring, kind, funny and interesting man.
Grandpa, you will be missed and I am glad to have had you in my life.

Mother guilt?

2010-09-15T21:26:00.000+10:00

Several months ago my very dear friend sent me an email that said something like "I don't know if and when we will come back to live in Australia and I want you to come and visit me in May 2011 for two weeks".
That got me thinking.
Kate has lived in Chicago for a few years now and has suggested I visit on more than one occasion, but I have always brushed it off assuming it was not really do-able for many reasons. When she got specific, a little 'why not' thought entered my head. Kate's question coincided with a friend of mine getting told her cancer can't be cured- so I was in a bit of a different 'head space' and willing to entertain possibilities that I hadn't before. When confronted with the possibility of the death of a friend (who is going okay, I should mention) the question of 'what is important' comes up regularly.
My family is really important to me (for some lovely reading about family read Kate's blog post). Why would I leave them to go half way round the world?

That has been the question that's been really hard to answer in the the decision process- amongst many others- hmm, do you get the sense I am not a swift decision maker? Well. I have been too-ing and fro-ing since Kate asked me and guess what- I have decided to go. As I was thinking about it I got offered an extra day a week work for 12 weeks, so that will pay for my ticket so that's the financial bit largely sorted.

But, oh, the questions raised- besides the 'should I be contributing to polluting the world by participating in the airline industry' ethical ones, the personal ones.

Do I 'deserve' this? Would this mean I am a 'bad mother'? Should I feel guilty? And all of that marlarky- not all of it helpful but really interesting to see what feelings and thoughts it has bought up for me.

Gee, and guess what I have remembered? I like travelling, I like planes, I love my friend Kate (not that I had forgotten that Kate!) and I can't wait to visit her and her family and I will also get to visit my cousin (in law) Natasha who has promised to take me to her 'locals' (fabric stores of course, not pubs- priorites!). I am enjoying thinking about my trip and planning it. Dare I say, getting a tad excited! It's a shift in thinking for me- rather than thinking about myself in terms of my home roles or work roles (which I pride myself on) I am thinking about just, well, me. Slightly uncomfortable because I am possibly not used to putting my needs and wants high on the priority list. But, I am really looking forward to remembering that, hey, I can negotiate an international airport- I do have skills other than those that have been regularly practiced over the past 10 years.

And my family? They will be alright. I am vey lucky that Mr. Apple works on the farm so he often walks down to the bus stop with the children and gets them aften school- gosh, he's the preferred parent for afternoon tea preparation because he makes the best milkshakes. So the day to day running of the place wont change that much. I will really miss them and they will miss me, but we'll all be okay. They will become abit more resilient, I will become abit less of a control freak (!) and hopefully we'll all be the richer for it upon my return.

Pay it forward and aren't I lucky!

2010-09-09T13:20:00.003+10:00

Look what turned up in my mailbox a few weeks ago- a fantastic neck cowl and fingerless mittens, crocheted beautiful (one of those skills I admire so much and am yet to master- or even umm, close to master!) with special wool (the details of which I don't have on me at the moment- sorry Mary- feel free to add in the comments if you want) and let me tell you these are a fantastic addition to the morning 'bus stop' walk with my kids because this Winter has been rather nippy at times.

Ages ago I signed up for Mary's 'Pay it forward'- that basically meant that I said 'yes please' when she offered to make something for two of her blog readers- she bent the rules for me, because at the time, I didn't have a blog and I am willing to bend the rules too- so feel free to comment if you don't have a blog (assuming you agree to the rest of the 'rules'!)

Thanks so much Mary, I feel thoroughly spoilt and I am the appreciative recipient of your skillful work.

I will send three people who leave a comment on this post a handmade gift within the next 365 days- if there are more than 3 comments I will draw three numbers randomly on the 14th September- that gives people a few days to comment.

I am willing to post anywhere in the world, so don't let that stop you commenting.

The catch is that you have to have a blog (or choose 3 people to make something for) and be willing to do the same thing....

So if you'd like to participate, then leave me a comment and make sure to leave me a valid email address so that I can contact you for your address, etc.PLEASE also tell me who you would like the gift to be for eg. your daughter/son/yourself/whoever and their age/size if applicable this will help me figure out what to make!

So if you're game then go ahead and comment!

(Most of this was copied off Mary's blog, who copied it off Peta's blog!)

2010-09-05T10:41:00.000+10:00

Excess limes= cordial for summer.

Feeling very organised and happy about minimising wasting fruit.
On an unrelated topic (well, still food, actually), I did a Vietnamese cooking class last week- it was SO FUN, I loved it. So I have grabbed some kaffir lime leaves off the tree, picked some coriander and lemongrass from the garden (and bought a whole lot of stuff from the Asian food store!) and am heading down to make my dad a banquet for lunch. He's excited but I don't think he realises the quantities of ginger and 'scented things' (his words) I am planning to use...

Busy bees

2010-09-03T15:52:00.000+10:00

There is a bee in there- gathering pollen to go back and make honey out of, which we will havest in Autumn. The beautiful poppies in my garden are multifunctional - I love it!

You know what else I think is amazing?

This is going to turn into a peach.

Hooray for Spring, and it actually feels quite Spring like today- apparently there are flood warnings for the weekend though. I will enjoy the blue sky and sunshine while it's there!

By the way, in case you were wondering, I have so much to talk about and our computer is fixed (fingers crossed it stays fixed!) so I will be back before you know it for a bit of show and tell!

The wonders of modern technology...

2010-08-14T19:49:00.000+10:00

Hmph, our computer is still broken, well, it got fixed and lasted a couple of days before deciding not to start again. It's only two years old.
Back in the 'olden days' things were made to last. My times have changed! I remember being at the grandparents house when they were getting new carpet- the carpet layer commented on how 'you don't see carpet like this anymore- this is the sort of carpet you get rid of because you don't like it anymore, not because it's worn out'- I asked how long the new carpet should last- 'oh, well we'd expect it to last about 7 years'. Highly unimpressive.
Every now and then (probably when something is broken) we have that 'quality' discussion. When is second hand best, and when is new best- and if it's new when is the more expensive but (one would hope) better quality option best?
I tell you what, I am so glad I took the latter when buying my Miele front loader 13 years ago- it was amazingly expensive (to me!) at the time but it still doesn't miss a trick. Our second hand gas oven hasn't worked- despite saying it was for LPG bottled gas, it wasn't (the plumber checked) so that was a waste of $100 when we were trying to save.
So now we are in the market for a computer (probably) and an oven. And we are not known for making decisions quickly so it might be time to drag out the BBQ. I think we should invite all the neighbours over to thank them for using there computers at times over the past few weeks!

Call this a crafty blog?

2010-08-01T21:57:00.000+10:00

I have been a little light on crafty content lately, haven't I.
I have been 'doing' just not showing and telling.
I mentioned I have had a few little photo uploading issues. I am not sure if it was a Picasa problem (but I am back to Photobucket) or a jolly warning sign. Our computer died last Sunday, thankful it hasn't wiped our hard drive and today we have it back- but it remains on 'light duties' until we get that external hard drive that we have been 'gunna' get for sooooo long.
Anyway, this is my version of Nicole's panel bag that I pattern tested for her a while ago. Have I mentioned I love pattern testing? LOVE. A great combination of words and editing, which I really like and sewing which I really like and following instructions- which I am getting better at!

I have been looking at patterns with new eyes as well. I have bought patterns from loads of different designers and they really do deliver different things, don't they. I have some that have, unfortunately, got to cutting out stage and progressed no further. Actually, I have some that I have pulled out of the packet, tried to read and put straight back in the packet!
What I like about Nicole's patterns is that they teach you techniques as well as giving you a pattern- so I am increasing my skills. The panel bag I tested is designed for beginners to intermediate sewers- how great- it includes things like piping, pleats and inserting magnetic snaps (which I have done before, without such clear instruction and ended up with a hole in my bag before too long)- which a 'beginners pattern' wouldn't necessarily include, but she includes very clear instructions about how to do it and photos.
While obviously I am a 'Nicole Mallalieu Design' fan this isn't just a plug. It's a critical think about the difference in patterns- I have beaten myself up in the past for not being able to follow a pattern, put myself down, had tantrums because 'a' and 'b' don't meet where they are meant to and now I realise (lightbulb) that it isn't necessarily due to my poor skills- patterns have misprints and mistakes and sometimes, poor techniques. I am getting a bit more confident in recognising this now. For example, I made up a softie pattern recently (not one I have blogged about) and in retrospect, if I make it up again, I think I will do it in a slightly different order and I think the result might be a bit smoother.
I never would have thought of that a year ago- the fact that it could be done differently or having the audacity to not follow the instructions of the expert! Sounds like I might be 'moving forward'!!

Place.

2010-07-24T12:47:00.001+10:00

I am interested in how people decide where to live- did you choose your place or did it choose you.

I am writing from my friends living room. In Preston. It's early (ish) on a Saturday morning and I have just strolled over to the Preston market, had a coffee, bought some flowers (cheap and fresh- how novel) and done some people watching- so much history, tradition and diversity in the people and the produce they are selling. The cheeses, the coffee, the baked goods, the breads. Ahh, you can take the girl out of the deli but you can't take the deli out of the girl! (Yes, deli chick from way back, here!)

I was enjoying my own company and felt a deep sense of contentment.

I love Melbourne, I was in the city yesterday and felt that very same 'heart ping' of happiness and contentment. I feel at home here, comfortable here but I do not live here. I think it is a good place for be to be when I am alone- Mr Apple doesn't enjoy too much Melbourne (despite the fact that he used to live near the corner of Collins and Russell Streets in the very city!) and Miss and Master Apple love the novelty of getting around on public transport, buskers, eating fresh store bought nori rolls and other excitements.

It's my place rather than theirs, though, I think it's fair to say.

Then I start thinking about home.

I admit, I don't love our house. It gives me a bit of a headache!

But I do love our country. It is silent and fresh and green (at the moment). It is big and wide and we are free in it.

We don't have ready access to shops and entertainment but then we don't have massive billboards and the constant onslaught of advertising to navigate.

I know I have talked about this before, but 'sense of place/ home/ community' really draws me. Some people seem better at moving house. I had the same bedroom for 18 years and don't think I cope with stress or change very well (I am noticing this more as I age). My brave friend Kate upped and left Australia with 3 children under 7 at the time and still hasn't returned from Chicago (hmph!).

And then there's me, 20 kilometres from the farm I grew up on- from that bedroom I spent the first 18 years of my life in. My parents are still there (obviously I am not from gypsy stock!) and my children now sleep in that bedroom when they visit.
I feel connected to, and like my roots are firmly planted in that area, and I love that and feel thankful... and I hate that because I don't feel like I could even consider saying 'let's go live in, hmm, say, Broome, for a bit of a change!'

Edited to add-Home now and how nice is that? Very very nice!