Down By The Creek

Still breathing

2010-10-30T21:55:00.003+11:00

These past 12 months are definitely not ones i want to repeat and on top of that i haven't even had the will to sew or stitch anything. Here's to a fresh start next year ....... cause you know it'll be 2011 before we know it.

A promise is a promise.

2009-09-07T12:25:00.003+10:00

I have been busy this past week working on some long overdue PIF gifts. Although they are not finished yet, completion is just around the corner. Here is a little peek at how they are looking so far.

I know it doesn't give much away, but then i wouldn't want to spoil the surprise for the intended recipients. I just hope they like "pretty and girlie".

Time Flies

2009-09-05T12:02:00.004+10:00

I feel like such a pseudo blogger. It has been so many months since i posted anything. But i have been busy, starting to work and sewing too.
Recently i took part in Maree's Paper Bag swap and here are the results.

For my swap partner i decided to make a journal cover and a little matching bag. I had lots of fun working with the fabric Lorraine sent, as it was a bit funkier then what i normally use.
Edit : I forgot to mention that both of these were slight variations on the bag and journal cover designed by Bloom.

Here is the pretty Tea Cosy / Coffee Plunger Cosy that Lorraine sent me. A great excuse to go shopping for a cute little tea pot. Thank you Lorraine and Maree.

Last night i was lucky enough to attend Gail Pan's book launch at Foothills in Tecoma. It was a lovely night and of course i went home with a book that Gail kindly signed. Now i just need to work out which project i shall make first.

Another redwork cushion

2009-05-13T01:32:00.004+10:00

Although i haven't had a response from my swap partner i think enough time has passed for me to reveal the cushion i made.

It is looking a little flat here, as it would without a cushion insert, but this is how i sent it. It is however machine quilted.

I was very happy with how the finished cover looked and learned a few new tricks on my sewing machine along the way.

It's nice to be spoilt occassionally.

2009-05-10T12:09:00.005+10:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY !
I hope you are having a day as lovely as mine.
Poached eggs on toast and presents galore........ a CD, a book and a Wii Fit (very cool).

But it's been so long since i have blogged anything longer then a paragraph and i have so much i need catch up on.

A PIF gift from Marica.
A redwork cushion from Rowena.
And how my Aged Care course is going.

This is the lovely creation that Marica sent me recently, along with the lollies that did not last very long at all. She looks wonderful sitting on my table looking after my sewing tools.
As i said in my last short blog - i need some people willing to play the PIF game. I already have Shiree and Diane playing with me, but i need another 4 folk who want to join in. If you know of anyone who might be interested please point them in my direction.

Here is the terrific and pincushion that Rowena sent me as part of Maree's redwork cushion swap. The cushion has made my lounge room much prettier and looks perfectly at home sitting on our sofa.
I still haven't heard if Rowena has received the cushion i sent her at the end of April so i will have to wait a little longer before i show you what i sent.

The Aged Care course i am enrolled in is quickly nearing completion. Only 2 more weeks in the classroom and we are off to do our work experience. To say i am a little nervous would be a major understatement !! I am terrified !!!
I think if i keep repeating my mantra i will be ok.

This too will pass, this too will pass, this too will pass.

Well it works for birthday parties at the local roller skating rink and is worth a try.

PIF Fun

2009-05-04T07:19:00.002+10:00

I have got to stop saying "I'll blog more" cause it just doesn't happen. As well meaning as i try to be.

This is just a quick little post to let everyone know i received a gorgeous PIF gift from Marica last week that i will showing off very soon. As well as the fact i would like / need another 4 people to send my own PIF gifts to.

I love Softies

2009-04-03T15:39:00.006+11:00

Today was a very wet day in Melbourne and not a great lead in to the school holidays. It was especially odd after the lovely late burst of heat we had yesterday......about 30°C, quite warm for the start of April. However it was definitely balanced out by our dark day today ........ it was so dull that the street lights were on at 2 o'clock in the afternoon.

Anyways, enough about the weather.
Today i felt the need for some sewing just for the sake of sewing ! You know how it is. There are a stack of projects that deserve a little attention, but there is nothing screaming,
"ME, ME, ME, work on ME". So we start on something new. It just can't be avoided.

I did however behave myself by limiting my sewing to a little project that was finished in an hour or two.

This is my little Chibi Rabbit as designed by My Little Mochi. He is only a little tacker. To show you just how little he is he is posing on my ipod.

Here is something i made earlier ..... well i did .... lol. Isn't she a cutie. I find it hard to believe that she is already nine.

About time i climbed back on the horse.

2009-03-29T22:39:00.004+11:00

I don't know where the last month went, but it has been done and dusted.

Mind you i wasn't sitting idle as it went rushing by.

I had an impromptu trip to Wagga Wagga after my mum had a heart attack ( all is ok now, she has recovered well and is getting on with being an amazingly strong and determined woman ).

And I am now about 8 weeks through my Aged Care course and all is going fine ( one more week and then we have school holidays - good time to do more reading on Dementia ).

I even managed a little sewing. Thanks Shiree for the nudge.

A simple little apron based on the tutorial by Still Dottie. It's not the sexiest apron but i think it has a cute Holly Hobbie kind of flair to it, in a practical sort of way.

This weekend we made the most of some lovely weather by doing some gardening. It's amazing the difference a little pruning and weeding makes.
After a trip to Bunnings i even have the start of a decent herb garden, IF i can keep the plants alive. And in true Murphy's Law style, after cleaning up one section of the garden i found that i had Basil all along. Doh !

Have a lovely week everyone.

Please welcome Judith.

2009-02-18T10:21:00.003+11:00

A lovely lady joined the blogging community a couple of days ago. Now a lot of you may have already seen an introduction by Jo Jo, but in case you haven't or just haven't had the time to visit yet here is another chance to meet & greet her.

Judith is a lovely, talented lady that has a long list of published projects in the Aussie stitching mags. She is even having a giveaway to mark the birth of her blog.

You can find Judith here :-

Welcome to blogland Judith and i hope you have an enjoyable time.

A finish, a partial finish and a draw.

2009-02-08T23:06:00.004+11:00

Thank you to everyone who wished me well for a second year of blogging. That first year went by pretty fast and despite having a low posting record ( watch out, I'm planning on getting more chatty) i might actually make it to my 100th post this year.

This week went well..... school started without a hitch, my course started without a hitch and i added the border to my Butterfly Garden quilt.

Ok, down to the nitty gritty.

For my anniversary giveaway i made a special little prize that i hope will be liked. She is Mabel Monkey designed by Prairie Mouse from the book Softies - 22 friends for you to sew, knit and crochet and has her own supply of bananas.

Thanks to the random number generator the winner of my little friend is
.
.
.
.
Sheryl.

Sheryl said...

Congratulations on your first years' anniversary in blogland!
I guess your children will be looking forward to school my kids won't admit to it but they always did....
Good luck with your new studies.
Can't wait to see pics of the Butterfly Garden quilt

February 1, 2009 8:05 PM

Please send me your details Sheryl and i will send you your little gift.

I hope everyone stays safe.

Hip Hip Hooray, I'm One Today

2009-02-01T10:39:00.004+11:00

Yep !

Today is my One Year Blogiversary.

And in honour of this questionably auspicious occasion i am holding a giveaway. What the prize (or prizes) is, is a mystery at this stage ( even from me ) but i promise to give some sneak peeks when i am ready.

As someone who runs a mile when competitions ask for anything described in 25 words or less, entry here is easy. Just leave me a comment ( regular visitors earn the 2 for 1 deal and get an extra entry )

I will close entry into the giveaway at bedtime Friday and draw a winner on the Sunday. This should give me a little time to get busy.

Of course i am picking an already busy week.

The kids start back at school on Monday.
I start an Aged Care course on the same Monday.
I hope to have the borders on my Butterfly Garden quilt ready for class the following week.

Ok, it's not that busy really, but after a lazy January it's a shock to the system no less.

Quiet times

2009-01-31T20:38:00.007+11:00

I don't know what happened to January but it's almost over! I vaguely remember New Years Eve, Australia Day and shopping for school supplies but the rest is just a blur.

It's hard to believe that in less then 2 days the new school year starts here in Melbourne and it's not just the kids going back to school. I'm starting an Aged Care course, which will hopefully lead to gainful employment come June or July. Its been a long time since i have been the student, so please, wish me luck.

Jo Jo is having a giveaway for her 100th post giveaway, so to qualify for entry i have a few pics of some sewing related things i can't do without ( Am i in time Jo Jo ?? )

A space of my own to be messy and creative.

A stash of favourite fabrics.

A my favourite books on hand.

I just wish there was more time in each day so i could sit and sew to my hearts content.

I Feel Loved

2009-01-14T13:50:00.005+11:00

Today i received my Pay It Forward gift from Granny Loz and i feel very spoilt ( and well fed ).

Lorraine sent me some very yummy dried fruit from Angus Park, the wonderful local dried fruit company in Angaston and a very cute little tin featuring cherries.

And as the PIF gift itself, a gorgeous little wallhanging with beautiful neat little stitches and an awesome mesh pouch.

To make this a green present, Lorraine even sent all these goodies wrapping in a calico bag, also from Angus Park.
Thank you Loz , for your lovely generous gift. It has really made my week.

Now it is my turn to ask 3 people if they would like to receive a gift from me some time in the next 6 months . All you have to do in return is promise to send a handmade gift on to another 3 people as per the concept of the movie "Pay It Forward".
If you would like join in please leave me a comment and let me know. First in (and second and third), best dressed.

One Project a Month Challenge

2009-01-02T16:22:00.003+11:00

Welcome to 2009, the year that UFOs, WIPs and WISPs will be finished.

Well, that is the plan anyway.

To help maintain my enthusiasm and momentum in this task i have decided to join in on Kris's (Tag Along Teddies) and May Britt's (Abyquilt) challenge.

The idea is to complete something each month, be it a new project or one that has been on the too hard pile for months or (gulp) years. The full details can be found on their blogs.

Happy Holidays and SSCS treats

2008-12-29T21:19:00.004+11:00

I can't believe after all that build up Christmas has come and gone. Wow!
Despite the craziness it was well worth it and quite enjoyable. We had a very quiet day at home, a lazy morning and a lunch that was so late it became dinner.
My girls got together and made a gingerbread house on the 23rd of December. For a first try it turned out pretty good and they definitely enjoyed decorating it.

Here it is in all its glory. I think as many lollies were consumed in the making, as were applied to the house, but i guess that's also part of the fun.

Liv made a special gingerbread snowman just the right size. He was the first casualty on Christmas day.

But alas, now there is none.

I was thoroughly spoilt on Christmas day by my SSCS partner Sherri. Sherri gave my 3 gorgeous handmade gifts, a tablerunner, a basket and a little zippered bag. All beautifully made in very pretty fabric.

As well as these lovely gifts, Sherri also sent me 2 American quilting magazines and 2 patterns.

Thank you Sherri for your beautiful gifts and thank you Donna for organising this great swap, it really made my Christmas day.

There's HOW many days 'til Christmas ?!!!

2008-12-12T10:02:00.003+11:00

Wow ! It's hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner. Maybe i should start thinking about what i can get my kids, there's nothing like last minute pressure to make a girl completely freak out.
It was also a big surprise to see how long it had been since my last post. These things can't be helped when your laptop decides enoughs enough and packs it in. It was only through my DHs expert part replacement that we are back up and running again. Being without my laptop is almost as bad as being sewing machineless ( which won't / can't happen - i have quite a few back ups ).
Anyway now i can show what a wonderful blogger sent me in Chookyblues SSCS.

My rather naked Button Annie is doing a great job minding the presents until Christmas. However they did get a fondle and squeeze before being removed to a safe height. A big thanks to Chookyblue for organising this swap and a huge thanks too to my secret santa.

My Stitcher's Angel

2008-11-10T10:22:00.003+11:00

A lovely package arrived for me today, my Stitcher's Angel gifts.

Susan, my angel, did a terrific job on a sewing caddy, a drawstring bag and a pincushion. Aren't they fabulous ! Susan's blog is Homespun Quilts.

On Saturday night i had a lovely time at the Christmas At Foothills Do. Sandra and Lesley gave us a fun, relaxing evening of sewing and frivolity.
I got to meet Nicky of Little Needle Case fame, "Hi Nicky!" and we had a secret Santa swap which i managed to stuff up.
I really should start reading instructions again. I completely overlooked the the line that said pick 6 items out of the 10 listed to include in your gift. Doh! Oh well, live and learn. Regardless, it was a lovely night.

Duckie update and more

2008-10-29T13:58:00.003+11:00

As i had anticipated yesterday the duck family have moved on. Fortunately they left via the creek, a perilous venture, but safer then any other alternatives. At least now i can concentrate on more then just their antics and well being.

I have finally completed my Stitchers Angel gifts. Wow, with a whole 2 days to get them in the post - at least thats how much time i think i have ! They will soon be off on a long trip overseas.

All i need now are some Aussie treats to send with them. I hope my swap partner likes chocolate!

And Mumma duck said Quack, Quack , Quack !

2008-10-28T14:25:00.004+11:00

But only 10 little ducks came back !

Sadly, one little duckling didn't make it through the night. He could have fallen victim to any number of predators but most likely it was an owl. We often see them out and about in the evening.

Chances are the duck family won't be staying with us too much longer. They are taking longer and longer strolls away from the safety of the pool, and may soon be ready to take the kids for a swim down the creek. It would be the safest way for the family to leave our yard, any other route would put them in constant danger.

Yikes ! They're heading towards the lane besides our yard. I can't take this kind of worry !!!
There are so many dogs and cats that roam in our street.

Panic session over ( for the moment ) they have decided the pool yard is a safer place to be.

With our very cute guests here I rushed off this morning to get a battery for my other camera so i could zoom in and get some pleasing pics of all their goings on, but the rotten thing is showing only a blank screen. A known fault apparently. Not happy !!

Anyone got a favourite SLR camera they would like to tell me about. I think i'm in the market for a new one!

Forget the magpies.... BEWARE THE DUCKS

2008-10-27T13:01:00.003+11:00

I had an unusual sight greet me this morning as i glanced at our pool ( extremely loose use of the word ). A family of ducks !!!! Now ducks are a common sight on or beside our pool but this time they were not alone !!!!! At first i thought, cool, five little ducklings, how sweet. But no! Mummy duck has eleven little ones to look after !!

It looked like Mummy, Daddy and babies were doing fine until it was time to take a dip. Now Mum and Dad have no problem getting in and out of the pool, but the 14 inch leap the ducklings would need to make is a bit excessive.
So this is were the warning comes into it. No matter your intentions wild ducks just don't get it. I decided the only way to avoid mass duckling fatalities was to step in and help. Daddy duck took serious offence to me coming between him and a stranded duckling sitting in our pump intake thingie. He gave me a very loud hiss and a good flapping at which was very impressive and a little unnerving. Very glad ducks have bills instead of pointy beaks.
However all ended well. I managed to fashion a ramp out of a plank of wood and added a step inside that intake thingie ( I'm not big on the lingo) if that makes any sense. After a few hit and miss attempts all the ducklings managed to evacuate the pool. I just hope they remember how to do it next time too.
Hmmmmm, this really puts the brakes on our pool cleaning for summer.

Last weekend i took myself to Wagga to visit some of my family. It was really nice to get away and spend time with my parents who i rarely get to see.

We had an outing on Sunday with not a child in sight. Involving a trip to the Wagga Art gallery to look at a collection of old local photographs, an ice cream in the park and a visit to a local nursery for some seedlings. All in all a relaxing afternoon. Above is a pic of my parents and 2 of my sisters.

Here is somewhere our resident ducks would be much better off. If only it wasn't 5 & 1/2 hours away.

Such a lovely weekend

2008-10-13T23:00:00.003+11:00

Great food, wonderful company and fun projects make for a fabulous day.

Saturday i was fortunate enough to attend the Glen Harrow Stitch-in with Rosie and Leanne where we had a perfect day full of stitching....... no cooking, no cleaning and no kids looking for their lunch. Pure bliss.

I managed to finish the stitching on Rosies project on the day and then pieced it together today...... It's nice working on smaller items that are finished quickly.

To make a great day even better........ i was lucky enough to win a prize. Five super pretty fat quarters. ******** Big big Grin *********

( I also had a great prior weekend watching Casey Stoner ride to victory in the MotoGP at Phillip Island --- Yay Casey !!!!! )

Tagged and released.

2008-09-28T22:00:00.002+10:00

I have been tagged by Julie at Simple Stitches , and while i am not going to tag anyone else ( because i am shy and retiring) i thought i might try and come up with 7 random things about me.

1. I had a tattoo and have had serious thoughts about getting another.
2. I am the youngest of 5 girls.
3. I hate trifle.
4. On the weekend i am off to the MotoGP on the back of hubbys motorbike.
5. I am a softie for frogs.
6. I really, really like Turkish Delight
and
7. I am very much a morning person.

Not very exciting, but as i said i am shy and retiring.

My Swap Bag arrived safely...Yay !

2008-09-28T21:17:00.004+10:00

Last week the bag i made for Linda's Bag / Bucket swap arrived safely in California. So now i can reveal more then the little sneak peeks i was giving previously, as well as the little extra gift i sent for Rhonda.

I used a bag that my sister made for me years ago for inspiration and two Rosalie Quinlan stitchery designs for the outside pockets.
As an extra little gift i made Rhonda a little softie. She has been named Mindy and was a delight to make. Mindy is designed by Tone Finnanger and is from her Sew Pretty book.

It's been a good week

2008-09-12T16:26:00.008+10:00

I can't believe that it is already the 12th of September, however considering we have had two birthdays this week i really should know that without thinking too hard.
On Tuesday it was my dear hubbies 38th and the following day our big boy turned 16.
Wow, time really does fly !

Last week ( ok on August 31st ) i was the lucky winner of a pattern from Willow Valley Store in Cathy's 10000 visitor giveaway. I went for another bag pattern ...... you can never have too many bags.

Then yesterday my bag from Linda's Bag Swap arrived. My swap partner was Bonnie from Calamity Janes Cottage

Bonnie sent a lovely bag, in the colours i love and she included a great little zippered pouch (complete with chocolates) , a gorgeous froggy brooch and some lovely mags. Wasn't i spoilt ?!

Today i sent off my bag for my partner XXXXXX in the X.X.X. I had lots of fun making a special gift to go with the bag , something that is very fitting for my swap partner when you see her blog. Unfortunately the only pics of this gift are on Lynda's (BozzyBlog) camera so you will have to wait to see what it is. If Leanne Beasley happens to read this ... yes i got her made and sent and i reckon she turned out very nicely to boot, i just hope she behaves herself on the long trip.

I thought i would get in on the act and find some pretty flora to photograph. What do you think ?

A bag swap peek and more

2008-08-29T10:07:00.007+10:00

I have been very quiet of late, but thats only because i have been busy sewing. Not a lot of sewing for myself but i have managed to get some presents made for swaps and birthdays. It is a relief to write that i have finished the bag i am swapping in Linda's bag/bucket swap. I am usually quick to start but very slow to finish when it comes to bags, but this month i have finished 2 and am part way through another.

Here is a bit of a look at what i have made. I hope my swap partner likes neopolitan ice cream.

It's nothing like the first peek i gave a few weeks back. While i really liked what i had originally started making , i decided that it was far too cutesy and set about making another bag based on one that my eldest sister had made me years ago.

The 2nd bag i made is a present for a little girl turning 9. It is a great little bag, very simple but still pretty enough. It is from a pattern by Leanne Beasley in the latest Australian Homespun magazine.

Hexagons are popping up everywhere and when my friend Lynda had some on auction i couldn't resist grabbing them. I'm not sure exactly what i plan to do with them, but having them ready and on hand when i do decide is the bestest.

I love frogs ! I think they are fabulous little creatures. And it is very exciting that soon we will be playing host to oodles of wiggly little tadpoles. Its not our first time as foster parents to lots of taddies, last year we had a swimming pool full of them.

Sadly, that didn't end so well for the late bloomers, but fortunately this year the frogs have restricted themselves to a little derelict pond. Once these little guys grow up there is going to be a massive population explosion (much to my hubby's dismay...... he thinks they're "noisy little buggers").

This pond really isn't a pretty sight. We were ready to pull it out back in February but once the rains came it filled up again and became the nursery that it is today. We will have to get in much quicker next year so that a new pond can be nicely established somewhere nearby for the next round of frogs and their offspring.

Yippeeeee! The sun is shining and the sky is a brilliant blue. I can't wait for Spring !!!!!!

Against Dr's orders

2008-08-12T11:41:00.003+10:00

Thank you for all the advice on managing sore over-worked shoulders. I am feeling better...... not 100% yet, but getting there. All would probably be great if i could stop myself from picking up needle and thread but that is a near impossible task.
Anyway using my loopy logic i decided to do some hand piecing, since it was a stitchery which first got me in trouble. Not real smart i guess, doing anything by hand is the problem. But i am pleased with what i have to show for my time and aching arm.
From yet another blog tutorial..... who can resist trying them all out ?

This is from a great pincushion tutorial by May Britt at Abyquilt . Silly me made my flower upside down by getting my piecing a little muddled up, but i still like the effect it created. May Britt has a few lovely tutorials that really need to be checked out.

There are also a few giveaways happening at the moment too.

Lila Tueller Designs is in the last days of her gorgeous giveaway.

Candace at Wraggedypatches is celebrating 100 posts.

Cheryl at Polka Dots and Rick Rack is celebrating her blogiversary.

Until next time ......

Warning - Stitching can be hazardous to your health!

2008-08-07T22:18:00.003+10:00

I was having such a lovely time this week. I was ahead on the housework front and able to indulge in lots of stitching, but it's come back to bite me. I've managed to over-stitch and caused myself an injury of sorts. Nothing major or dramatic and all self inflicted due to my poor hoop holding technique, but not what a girl wants or needs. Basically the muscles in my left shoulder have stopped playing the game due to being held in one position for hours on end and those unhappy muscles are causing me some very unwelcome pain. Moan, groan.

This block is just one of the culprits in my incapacitation, the others were probably the stitchery blocks for the bag/bucket swap bag I am making. Either way this does bode well for me finishing my Butterfly Garden block before next weeks class. Not happy Jan.

Making progress

2008-08-04T12:47:00.003+10:00

I decided to get started on my bag for Linda's Bag/Bucket swap and have made some good progress so far. A little more stitching and i will be ready to put it all together. Here is a bit of a peek at how things are going. I know it doesn't reveal a lot but you can get an idea of colours etc.

It's just as well i am on track with this swap as i have signed up for a couple of others that are happening soon too. The first is the Stitchers Angel swap organised by Helen at Hugs & Kisses and the second is Chookyblue's SSCS 2008. Hmmm.... wonder what i can come up with for swap partners there ?

On the giveaway front :- Maree over at Farmyard Crafts is having a 50th post giveaway until the 10th of August. So head on over and say G'day.

Last week i was trying my best to be a good "Holly Homemaker" and as a result the house isn't looking too bad and the mountain of washing i usually have to face is down to a mole hill. So today, i can happily do some stitching without feeling the big guilt. "Sigh"

And now it's time to stitch.

Tutorial fan through and through !

2008-07-24T12:48:00.004+10:00

I love the way blogger share their knowledge and create fantastic tutorials. You really could learn something new everyday.

Last Sunday Linda (All Stitched Up) let us all know that Lisa at A spoonful of Sugar had created a tutorial of her cute covered tape measure. So of course i went straight over and had a look.

Today i made one too, its no way as awesome as Lisa's but I'm still pretty happy with the results. I made mine to match the thread catcher and bucket (both made from blog tutorials) i had made recently for secret gifts.

I wonder if it's all still a secret???????

Thanks Lisa for your great tutorial !

Handsome Happy Jack

2008-07-23T08:20:00.002+10:00

It's funny I've been sewing quite madly but have nothing to show for it. I guess some weeks are like that. Even though i have nothing great for show and tell, there is another blogger who does.
Tara at Just Bergie Boyz is having a giveaway and her prize is a pincushion that has oodles and oodles of character. So be sure to go have a look at her lovely blog.

Giveaway alert

2008-07-17T19:58:00.002+10:00

The lovely Sue Daley at Sue Daley Designs is having a pattern/paper piecing give away at the moment. Why not swing by and take a look.

Over the fear

2008-07-10T21:48:00.003+10:00

I have a new found love for my sewing machine. It has had more use in the last few days then the previous weeks. It helps that it has a (temporary) permanent home in our lounge room. Thank you, Robyn for the wake up call. My mess is now a little less messy.

I found that raw edge appliqué and drawing with the machine is not so scary. In fact i am desperate to do some more. My little Birdie is on another bucket thanks to the tutorial by RicRac.

Making the most of an unplanned blogging holiday

2008-07-05T16:20:00.005+10:00

At the beginning of this year i had no idea how hooked on blogs and blogging i would be just 6 short months. All it took was a forced hiatus and the habit was revealed. The sigh of relief when our internet connection regained its full health was practically seismic.

However, I have put my time to some good use.

This little bucket is made using the fab tutorial provided by RicRac
The stitchery is from Anni Downs "Simple Pleasures" book. I had stitched it as part of the Cyber stitching day organised by Karen at Mrs Martins Quilt Shop......BUT in typical fashion i didn't read the instructions and stitched the wrong size Kitty. It did make a good decoration for the little bucket though.

Then there is the ( mostly) matching thread catcher from another great tutorial, this time by The Stitching Room. These were made as little gifts for a fellow quilter...........hmmmmm i hope she isn't reading this.

"My Home is My Haven" wallhanging, designed by Anni Downs of Hatched & Patched. This was just one of the cute little projects we had starter kits for on the Stitching Day in June.

I also received my pincushion from the swap organised by Linda at All Stitched Up.
My lovely partner Paula in NH sent me this sweet little pincushion heart and a matching needle case. It is a very pretty in blue.

Here is a little sneak peek of my pincushion which i shall be sending off to its new home on Monday.

Have a lovely weekend.

This too will pass !

2008-07-02T09:21:00.002+10:00

I had such lovely plans for June. It really was going to be a fun blogging month.

We had the Cyber-stitching with Mrs Martin.

Pin cushion swapping with Linda.

And my birthday !

But even the best laid plans don't always eventuate.
One of my darling sons exhausted our internet connection to such a degree that blogging was pointless. Pages and pics were taking far too long for my pitiful lack of patience to take.
Really, I'm surprised I've made it this far !!
Next post things should be back to normal. Then i will be able to give a sneak peek of my pincushion before i send it off to its new home across the sea.

Creative Bloggers

2008-06-11T09:05:00.003+10:00

Last week i stumbled on this book at the local bookshop and couldn't resist. I had seen it popping up here and there in crafty blogs, so really it was only a matter of time. However, what i didn't realise was who all the contributors were ------ they're BLOGGERS !

This is my new favourite book that i cart around with me from room to room. A habit i have had for a while now............ any new publication, be it magazine or book .............. I have to have it close by so that i can keep looking at it, fondle its lovely pages and dream about what i will make.

I have almost finished all my homework for Butterfly Garden, just another 100 or so French knots to go and a raw edged butterfly. Honestly 24 hours should be ample time to get it done, well it would be if i wasn't procrastinating over the raw edge appliqué. If i tackle my fear and get it done today i will be sure to post a pic.

Absolutely Scrumptious

2008-06-05T21:49:00.005+10:00

I just can't resist sharing this recipe. We had the yummiest mushroom risotto tonight, it was so so good and made using the slow cooker so it was pretty easy too.

The ingredients are 100g butter, 400g mixed sliced mushrooms, 1 diced onion, and 1 & 1/4 Cup arborio rice - these ingredients are fried in the butter for 10 minutes. Combine 1 L of water with a sachet of McCormick Slow Cooker Beef & Mushroom Ragout. Place rice, onion & mushroom mix in slow cooker with the water mix and 10 sprigs of fresh thyme ( i accidentally used rosemary instead and it was a very tasty mistake, just had to remove the stray leaves) . Cook on high for 2 hours, stirring every 1/2 hour. Just before serving mix through 1 cup of grated or shaved parmesan cheese and remove thyme sprigs ( or rosemary). An optional 2 Tablespoons of cream could be added before serving for a creamier version but i found i super creamy without any cream. Serves 4 - 6.

On a quilty note i am slowly finishing off my block 3 of Butterfly Garden, just a little more to do and then I'm done. I may just reach my goal of having all 3 blocks sewn together for class next week.

Already Ready

2008-06-03T09:47:00.001+10:00

Yipee ! I am ready for my next class at Foothills Fabric and Thread. Last week a small group of ladies including myself started a semi-QAYG flannel quilt with Sue Taylor ( here is the class sample ) and yesterday i finished piecing all my blocks. The next class isn't until the 18th of June but the fabric was so yummy that i had to get them all done asap.

However, i did find that i had trouble staying put at the machine. I think i am much better suited to appliqué and stitcheries, even though they take so much longer. Just as well i am also making Butterfly Garden, there's enough appliqué and stitcheries there to keep anyone satisfied.

Addicted to Giveaways

2008-05-26T20:32:00.002+10:00

Two entries in one day is a first for me, but i decided this was a good cause. Lol.
Jo at Home Sweet Home is having a give away with a known prize and a mystery box. Who wouldn't be intrigued. Take a look and have a go.

Weeks Come & Go

2008-05-26T11:21:00.006+10:00

I am in awe of those bloggers out there who manage to post an entry in their blog every other day. I don't know how they do it. I keep waiting to finish a project or have something interesting happen so I'll have something to say but it takes too long.

So............ even though i haven't finished anything, i have managed to make some progress and keep busy.

This past week :

I have been diligently working on my Butterfly Garden mini blocks and now have 1 to do, 1 to finish and 1 that needs re-doing (not that it's that bad but enough that it will bug me if i don't do it again ).

I also signed up for my first blog based swap. The pincushion swap hosted by Linda at All Stitched Up.

My eldest daughter turned 11 ( wow only another 18 months and she'll be starting highschool !)

Unfortunately there are no new photos to share but here is one from the archives.

This is a wall hanging designed by Christine Book and Danielle Carey called Beneath our Southern Sky. I was feeling very homesick (and patriotic too) a lot of the time we were living in Switzerland so this was my attempt to bring some Aussie-ness to our apartment. I managed to get it about 3/4 quilted before we came home to Australia and of course that it how it has remained. I really should add it back on to my "things to finish" list.

The Call of the Wool

2008-05-14T17:00:00.004+10:00

Opps i did it again!

I've gotten side tracked, but i don't mind. It was nice to have a change of pace. This little fellow is Fuzzy Lamb designed by Fuzzy Mitten ( there are some really cute designs). He was pretty quick to make. Which was surprising since it's been years since i have done any knitting.
The reason i started with the wool thing is Mel the monkey from The Stitching Room. He is very cute and i needed a starting point to see if i was up to the challenge. I think i'll do ok, but a monkey will definitely be more then a 24hr project.

On the weekend i managed to get lots of sewing done. .......the only perk when DH has to work Saturday and Sunday! I made a start on my 3rd block for Butterfly Garden and pieced all the little mini blocks. I still have to finish block 2 but i felt like having some quality time with my sewing machine. And it paid off.

They are looking very bare without all the appliqué and stitcheries but it's a start.

My Butterfly Garden

2008-05-08T14:38:00.003+10:00

Today we had our 3rd Butterfly Garden class with Leanne at Foothills Fabric and Thread. It is mind boggling how varied the blocks were when we had our mandatory show and tell. Leanne couldn't help snapping a few photos which will appear on her blog shortly.

I feel a bit sheepish owning up to taking the easy path and staying very true to Leanne's original quilt. Especially when you see it made entirely from black and white fabric with splashes of orange as contrast! But what can you do when what you want and what Leanne has made is one and the same. Maybe I'll be adventurous next time.

I think my blocks have turned out a little brighter, but a lot of the fabrics are the same as those in the original.
The 2nd block is practically finished, only 2 mini blocks to go and then i can start on block 3. It would be great to have all three blocks finished and sewn into a row by next class. All going smoothly this month, that will be my goal.

The ladies at Foothills must think i am rather mad at the moment. On top of doing Butterfly Garden i have signed up for a class to make a flannel QAYG ( sort of) quilt and have just purchased backing fabric for a Swell jelly roll quilt ( that i haven't even started yet ).

I did say i wasn't going to add to my list of things to do but since I've never made a flannel quilt before i let this slide and the backing fabric is for a quilt already on the list so that's ok too.
Oh dear, i really am a quilting /fabric addict !!!!!

BFN Nic

It all makes sense

2008-05-05T15:18:00.001+10:00

I now understand why i am having trouble focusing on the project at hand ...... i can never find anything !!!

Once upon a time, in a country far, far away i had a lovely little sewing room, it was white and boring but it was all mine. I could organise my goodies and easily locate that necessary piece of fabric or button or thread or anything i needed to use. However since getting back to Australia chaos has followed and it doesn't look like departing any time soon. The photos do show my crafty supplies looking somewhat organised but this is spread over four rooms and doesn't include the pile of books and mags under the bed.
One of these days the Granny Flat will morph into a wonderful studio but I've decided to stop holding my breath ..... it's just giving me a headache.

This mess was brought to you by me and inspired by the likewise dilemma of Robyn at Happystitches.

Nic

Finally Finished

2008-04-24T07:21:00.007+10:00

It's amazing what can be achieved after you spend the weekend with an inspiring group of fellow quilters.
The gathering was the Autumn Quilt Camp organised by Karen of Mrs Martins Quilt Shop. It was a wonderful weekend full of great company, fantastic food and of course lots & lots of sewing. I definitely want to sign up for the next one! Hmmmm i wonder how i'm going to break it to the DH?

Anyway all those ladies working on their different projects gave me the little push i needed to finish something that has been hanging around for YEARS. Something that should have been finished and SWAPPED before returning to Australia. However due to my silly habit of getting projects 90% finished and then stopping because i didn't want to ruin it at that point, it sat and waited for the handles to be attached!

I haven't sent it yet because of the guilt factor!
I have to find some suitable "forgive me" items to include in the bag and then i shall be done, it shall be mailed and i can wipe it off my list once & for all.

Hopefully i can put my wicked ways behind me and make a fresh start.
No more projects collected this year!!! Only thing is, that doesn't mean i can't start new ones, if i already have the projects kitted up ! **G**
Which means i CAN start :-
Summer's Bouquet
Nice People, Nice Things
My Swell Jelly quilt

I just hope there is enough time in the year!

I adore quick projects

2008-04-16T09:12:00.003+10:00

Ok so maybe what i just made doesn't really qualify as a project, but I made it so it does still give a sense of accomplishment.

These are Ready Threaders for which a tutorial was given by Flower Garden. They are very simple and quick to make. Some of the ladies in my area had them at past sewing days and i had really wanted to make one too, so when i found Annie's blog it made the whole process much simpler. Thanks a lot Annie for your instructions.

Kreative Kids

2008-04-11T14:01:00.005+10:00

Just as the school holidays were coming to an end my often charming , sometimes frustrating daughters decided it was a good time to start a little sewing project, as you do.
They had picked up a scrap bag from Foothills Fabric & Thread from which Tash was able to make a Melly & Me Sangsang.

Liv was inspired by some polka dot material that could only be one thing -- a dress for a Minnie Mouse. The majority of this doll was drafted and hand sewn by Liv. Opps , i just realised that poor Minnie is without her lovely polka dot dress. After a quick search Minnie is nowhere to be seen---hmmm, she is prob at school with Liv. Oh well, I shall have to take another pic later .

While they did their thing i got to do mine.
Block 2 from Lynette Anderson's Noah's Ark free stitchery BOM.

Only one more week 'til Autumn Quilt Camp and i still don't know what i want to work on. I really should be a good girl and do my Butterfly Garden but i have Gail Pan's Summer's Bouquet ready to work on too. Decisions decisions.

My Weekend

2008-03-30T17:23:00.003+11:00

This wasn't an average weekend for me. It involved a a trip to a nearby town that i hadn't visited since i was about 13, a visit to a lovely patchwork shop and a face to face meeting with a busy blogger. None of which was important to my DH since his focus was picking up the motorbike and car he had just bought , both in need of some TLC.

Our destination was Ballarat, and it was incredibly cold and somewhat wet. I got a little bored waiting for DH to sort out his purchases, but found the rain a lovely diversion. It made the most mundane views look like something out of a Monet painting. Ok maybe that's a stretch , but it does look pretty neat.

Once the boring matters were taken care of i got to visit Ballarat Patchwork. A very lovely shop with a fantastic range of bright fabric. I settled on a few FQ's for my Melly & Me Silly Bunnys that i am planning to make for some expected bubs. I think they make a very pretty little rainbow.
While i was at the patchwork shop i met up with the lovely Rachel. I have shopped with Rachel on eBay for many years, so it was nice to finally be able to put a face to the name.
(Rachel --Thank you for making the trip to the shop so we could meet.)

I had a brief moment of guilt over my fabric purchases but that didn't last long. I figured they were fair compensation for a bringing me along so that i could tow his motorbike home on a trailer. Actually, with the stress this caused me he got off very lightly.

The purchase of the bike worked out pretty well for me on Sunday. DH has been so busy cleaning and fussing over it, that i have had plenty of time to sit and sew. Enough time, that i was able to finish my last Joy Of Life block . YAY!! With just a few "loose ends" to finish off, it'll soon be off my to do list !!

PS : On Friday night Number One son returned from his Central Australia Camp. By all reports it was a huge success, with all those who took part forming closer friendships. What a great way to start the senior years of high school.

Yay ! ! ... Sewing time

2008-03-19T17:28:00.003+11:00

After weeks of no fabric/sewing therapy the drought has been broken !!
I decided to start off with a small project that i could pick up and put down until it was finished.
I have to thank Lynette for her free BOM that she has on her site. It was perfect.

I am yet to get my sewing machine out to add the border but i am getting there one step at a time.
With the drought broken i might be able to make a start on my Butterfly Garden quilt, of which i am already a block behind on. Life has such a bad habit of getting in the way sometimes.

All ( ok most) of my concerns over Number One son heading off for camp have been alleviated, mobile phones are such a wonderful thing. He and the many other kids are currently camped at a caravan park near Uluru and are having a great time.

BFN Nic

Slowly but surely

2008-03-15T22:37:00.004+11:00

The renovations i mentioned a few weeks back are progressing slowly ..... very slowly. The flow is being hindered by the mayhem that is being uncovered as we go. Basically, if there was a wall that possessed a 90° angle at a corner i would be amazed. My DH has had to become very creative in both his carpentry and plastering.
All this renovation has left no time for sewing! I am feeling extremely stressed and deprived but at least a visit to the Monbulk Quilt Show today gave me a little quilting release. It was a nice, friendly little show with a diverse assortment of quilts and a killer lucky dip. I think i might have been a little greedy buying 3 lucky dips but the money was going to the CFA so that helped ease the guilt and i am very happy with my little bounty of treasure.

Today my number one son departed really,really (not so) bright but rather early on a 2 week camp to central Australia, as did Gail Pan's son( opps i can't remember how to create a link) ( boy was DH envious !!) . Apart from giving me an early wake up call for the quilt show, his leaving has left me in a bit of a state. Every little thing brings Sam to mind, almost to the point of needing a camp parent support group. I really didn't think his leaving would affect me like this, but it has and this is only a 2 week separation !! Hmmmm.... maybe some sewing would help ease the anxiety !!

BFN not F

Nic

Renovation rescue me

2008-02-29T19:04:00.004+11:00

Renovating is hard work !!! Even harder for my dear Hubby who is doing most of the work !!!

It all started two weeks ago when we started stripping walls of hideous chunky stucco, wood paneling and outing a out dated and useless bar. The poolhouse / granny flat is destined to be a usable guesthouse and more importantly my own little studio . *****Happy Dance*****

So far there is plaster is on the walls, but no painting or actual floor in the entrance area. The kitchen hasn't been ordered, there are no curtains or window dressing of any kind and it needs a new door ( preferably French).

Hopefully i will be able to post a pretty "after" picture in the very near future, the very very near future, as we have friends visiting from Switzerland in the middle of March. Oh dear !!!

Bye for now.

Thank you All

2008-02-08T22:59:00.000+11:00

It is lovely to have such a friendly greeting. Thank you for all the encouraging words. It makes me want to do well , so that your messages are not in vain.

I had a fairly productive day (although it probably wouldn't rate in such a way with my dear hubby). I had a lovely time visiting my good friend Lynda , dividing up some fabric we each bought from Lily Patches in Boronia this week, for which i have a few ideas already.

As an extra highlight i finished my 2nd last block for the Joy of Life quilt by Rosalie. I can actually see myself finishing this quilt, which will make such a pleasant change from my usual habit of simply adding to my UFO pile! I had hoped to have all my blocks finished before i started on Leanne's Butterfly Garden next Thursday.....hmmm......my chances are getting slim. I hope hubby doesn't except me to do lots of gardening this weekend !!

BFN Nic

Happy Camper

2008-02-06T21:42:00.001+11:00

I am feeling very lucky indeed. Today i received a call from Sandra of Foothills Fabric & Threads to tell me i had won a prize in the Fabric Frolic. I can't remember the last time i won a prize. It's very exciting. Although i am also very thrilled to have been selected by Melly & me ( Mel and Rosie) in their 2nd round prize comp for the Dolcetto bag i made. Although, the actual prize went to an inspiring 14 year old lad i feel honored none the less. The pic above is of the lovely goodies i was given as a F.F. prize. Thank you to all the shop owners and their sponsors. I am already looking forward to next years frolic.
Hugs Nic

Kitty Bliss

2008-02-05T12:01:00.001+11:00

There's no disputing it ....Cats love fabric too !
Bodhi is in his happy place, he is close by to me whilst i sew and he is able to relax amongst the piles of fabric. Of course the down side for me is the long fur that manages to get almost everywhere ( i would choose a semi-long haired puddytat ).

Huge Learning Curve Ahead

2008-02-01T14:30:00.000+11:00

Here i go attempting to join the blogging set.
I really have no idea what i am doing but i guess things will get easier and start to make some sense soon. Fingers crossed.
I have to tell you i am feeling a little silly. Sitting here composing a letter to the ether. But i do love to sew and create even if i am not the most consistent when it comes to finishing projects. Adding a few pics of those things i have completed should spruce up the place no end.

By for now.

Nic