Dance in my garden

I meant to do my work today.

2012-02-14T12:14:00.000+11:00

I Meant To Do My Work (Blog post?) Today

(yesterday, last week/month)

by Richard LeGallienne

I meant to do my work today,
But a brown bird sang in the apple tree,
And a butterfly flitted across the field,
And all the leaves were calling me.
And the wind went sighing over the land,
Tossing the grasses to and fro,
And a rainbow held out its shining hand,
So what could I do but laugh and go?

Goodbye for now everyone.

Too much life to live, too little time.

♥

I do love a fresh new year

2012-01-06T21:09:00.001+11:00

Well, rather than drop off the blog planet for good, I thought it would be a positive thing to have my first post for 2012 to say hello to those of you who still may be reading!
I love the feeling of hope and anticipation that a new year brings! No, I am not promising any new years resolutions, for I have found in the past that only leads to feelings of folly and regret.
But, what I do love about a new year, is the reflection of the year just past, and the chance to meditate on who I am, the direction I want my life to be taking, and the planning that goes along with that.
I usually have a couple of main themes I want to concentrate on, and this year it goes along the lines of;
fitness, photography, school life, and family. Plus, this year, I want to really learn how to make sushi.
Focusing on those things I want to improve gives me a good step in the right direction, and journalling about it sets those thoughts into concrete, which then gives me a springboard for the rest of the year. Another benefit is that I have the freedom to say no in other areas that I know may distract me. Saying no is going to be a big part of who I need to be this year. I have said yes to many things in 2011, that I know now, were possibly ego driven, rather than thought and logically driven.

I should take this opportunity to thank those of you who stop by and leave comments, take the time to read my ramblings, and just check in every now and again.
Thank you.
What do you love about a new year?

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♥

a little itty bitty mention about me in THE country mag Australia loves.

2011-12-02T14:10:00.003+11:00

Last week I saw a post from Natalie on facebook who owns a gorgeous little shop in Penguin, on the north-west coast of Tasmania. It's a bit of a sea-change kind of place, I haven't visited the place for ages, but it's right on the water, and probably a bit trendier and sought-out than it used to be when I was growing up a couple of towns over. So Natalie's shop is called Nest, and I was terribly excited for her, when she mentioned that her shop would be in the magazine, Country Style (Australia).
COUNTRY STYLE! The one I buy every month. The one magazine that I drool over pictures and places that I long to visit. The one that features styling by Sibella Court. The one that keeps me falling in love with this wonderful Australian country, over and over again. With photos that seem timeless and reachable. The one magazine I have trouble chucking out.

So, I rush off to buy the December edition, that very day.
(I had sent another edition of this mag in a blog swap last year to the UK. It seems the British like our country magazines, and we like theirs.)

Sorry this is turning out more rambly than I had anticipated, partly because I haven't done a 'proper' post in ages, and I'm getting warmed up, or maybe I'm just providing you with a build up!

So I get home, and flicking through in joyous excitement, I finally land on Nat's feature.
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeekkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk. I noticed it. Oh. Oh! A bunting that Nat bought from me is hanging up in her shop window....and as I glean over the words I see my business name got a mention.
(You need to visualise some sort of squealing and jumping up and down on the spot now!!)
I'm not the sort of person who goes looking for publicity. I'll happily sit in front of my computer screen, and post away on facebook, or here, attend the odd market or four throughout the year, and that's about it. This is my first time. I know it's only very little. But I'm a happy bunny. And I am so very happy for Nat, because it's her BIG first time. In Country Style!!

You see the cover with that gorgeously decorated Christmas tree?

They are grown here in Tasmania!

On a Christmas tree farm!

♥

market update...

2011-11-25T14:51:00.000+11:00

Hello there.

I am going to be at The Barn Market, at Rosny this Saturday!

You'll find me outside under a marquee, and cross fingers for no wind, please!

Luisa

♥

Me at a market this Sunday

2011-11-15T15:33:00.000+11:00

Dance in my garden will be at The Valley Market, this Sunday the 20th of November, with a little assortment of my goodies.

Looking forward to it.

♥

I love seersucker

2011-10-28T15:10:00.000+11:00

It just says summer to me.

According to Wikipedia.....

S'eersucker is a thin, puckered, all-cotton fabric, commonly striped or checkered, used to make clothing for spring and summer wear. The word came into English from Hindustani (Urdu and Hindi), which originates from the Persian words "shir o shekar", meaning "milk and sugar", probably from the resemblance of its smooth and rough stripes to the smooth texture of milk and the bumpy texture of sugar.^[1] Seersucker is woven in such a way that some threads bunch together, giving the fabric a wrinkled appearance in places. This feature causes the fabric to be mostly held away from the skin when worn, facilitating heat dissipation and air circulation. It also means that pressing is not necessary.'

Love the no pressing bit...not a big fan of ironing!

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I've been lucky enough to have found a few seersucker tablecloths at op-shops lately....bring on summer!

♥

I'm going to the Spring Festival!

2011-10-06T11:52:00.001+11:00

I've been running around like a blue arsed fly all week, and it's all because I'm having a stall here this weekend!! I am pretty excited, although I'm still in the middle of packaging, tying things with string, and wishing I had some more time to find my prop of choice....some old hanging bird cages.

I have dreamt about having a stall at the Spring Festival for years, and it's practically my favourite garden in the whole of Hobart! I love spending time at the Hobart Botanical Gardens.

Maybe I'll even see some of you there?!

I'm going to have lots of lovely things on my stall...hopefully it will be well received. I'll let you know more about all of that once the new website is up and running! If you come along, you'll get a sneaky peaky all of your very own!!

♥

Upcycled vertical garden

2011-10-03T12:40:00.000+11:00

It might be a bit urban, but vertical gardens have become popular in the last couple of years, but I especially love the idea of using discarded pallets. No need for the designer price tag, when you can make it yourself.

I think this is an achievable project for most people, and it would be even more economical if you used seeds, rather than seedlings. Just more patience needed, and maybe some extra patience to 'find' the pallet.

You can find the instructions for this project at Life on a Balcony.

♥

The best toy ever

2011-09-26T21:18:00.000+10:00

This film was made for the Nokia Shorts 2011 competition. It tells the story of a boy who meets and befriends a large cardboard box.

It's brilliant, and I hope you like it.

♥

Definition of play from 1964

2011-09-22T13:38:00.000+10:00

What do we mean by play?

Play is to create, to discover, to proceed in half-playful, half-serious mood to experiment with one's culture.
Play is to recreate one's environment: to rearrange it in accordance with one's own dictates.
Play is to master one's own physical self: to develop physical coordination and control; to cope with any kind of sport or physical activity.
Play is for exploring and adventuring in nature and science; for grappling with ideas.
Play is for mastering materials and tools; to work in a disciplined manner, allowing materials to suggest wholly new ideas.
Play is a way of verbalizing about one's world; of establishling physical images and patterns that relate.
Play is for construction and for achieving new forms; for artistic and aesthetic expression; for reworking one's creative faculties.
Play is for children what brain-storming is for adults.

All creative adults play. The scientist plays, the artist plays, but they play on a higher level towards more exacting goals. They play with ideas in science, in art, in music. Out of this play they get the strength, ability, and courage to tackle the impossible; to discover new worlds.
Play, an essential of childhood, is wholly a creative activity requiring the careful selection of materials and tools; good toys are its tools.
Parents have an obligation to enrich and enlarge each child's horizon with a wide variety of creative playthings suitable to his particular attention span, interests, dexterity, and general capabilites.

Creative Playthings, 1964

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♥

our plot

2011-09-18T20:03:00.000+10:00

When we first 'adopted' our plot at the community garden a couple of months ago, I was worried we wouldn't be able to fill it up....

Now I'm worried that we won't have enough room left for sunflowers, sugarsnap peas, tomatoes, corn and celery! Today we planted rocket and raddichio, as well as a painted sign!

Some colour from other surrounding plots....

Mt Wellington in the distance....

Where do you plant your vegies? I have a friend who even plants them in her front yard - I love that!

♥

little vessel

2011-09-09T21:24:00.001+10:00

Don't you just adore these little hanging vases?

I do.

by Pigeon Toe Ceramics

as seen on The Knot

from Nest

from Design for Use

My favourite one is this diy, eco chic number by Little Wed Hen

♥

Isn't this what we call a health food shop in Australia?

2011-08-31T16:06:00.000+10:00

Things are turning full circle!

A positive step in the right direction, especially after watching the extraordinary amount of waste that goes down the drains in LA. on 'Dirty Jobs'. The amount of polystyrene coffee cups I saw was frightening.

This generation needs to change the way we think about our consumption.

♥

a nip of change in the air

2011-08-30T19:05:00.000+10:00

Hi!

Long time no blog post.

I have to admit to feeling a little rusty.

Ever since we have moved into town, my perception, actually my reality of time has changed. We are on the road so much more, because our school is still in our old 'town'. Then, there is the time I spend on facebook, the once place I vowed and declared I would never, ever go. I'm having a lot of fun in that space. But I do miss blogosphere. Sometimes it seems like there are different people that hang out in each sphere of social media.

So here's a little snippet of what's been happening in my world.

I've been attending a lot of business workshops and the like - both my knowledge and my fear is growing! Business can be a bit like a garden, can't it? I've been planning, plotting out, and considering when to plant for optimum growth! But if you get it wrong, yikes! Lots of labour, but no produce to show.
We've started a vegetable garden in our local community garden, due to the lack of space and sunlight over winter at our place.
While we're still caretaking this property, it's a case of how long is a piece of string, for a time-line. This makes for a kind of restlessness in me.
I've put on weight. No local park to walk to and around in. It's mostly a case of getting in the car, and driving to the park. I'm not a big car fume fan. I've joined the Michelle Bridges 12 week body transformation. Part of the pre-season getting ready is to 'tell everyone'. I definitely consider putting this on a blog post a qualifier!
We've kind of started going back to church. Tipping our toes at the moment.
I feel like I have grown up a little this year.

Spring is just around the corner!

♥♥

hello there friend

2011-08-15T13:30:00.000+10:00

It wasn't my intention to lead you, my faithful bloggy readers, into such a long silence.

I'll be back soon....x

mt wellington

2011-07-19T14:20:00.000+10:00

We missed the traffic conjestion last weekend from hoardes of desperate snow seekers...these pics were taken a couple of weeks ago.

And, so the newspapers again bought up the question about a cable car...what do you think? Should we have a cable car on Mt Wellington?

I'm gonna stop sitting on the fence, and say we should, even though the conservationist in me is a bit torn.

Our mini snowman somehow turned out quite mean looking - almost sinister.

This is how the Derwent river looked yesterday..and a bit of a rant.

2011-07-04T13:05:00.002+10:00

truly serene.

not a breath of wind.

tranquil.

soft.

moment.

There has been so much going on in my life lately, and I have so wanted to post about many things, but time escapes me. I have been longing to leave comments on your blogs and due to some unbeknownst to me technical reason, blogger's not letting me, so it's frustrating to say the least. And I haven't even told you about how great the 'Brooch Swap' was...and the lovely lady I swapped with.

Then, of course, in my head madness kind of way, I start having thoughts about starting another blog (another tangent perhaps), It's food related ~ but not in a masterchefy, recipey kind of way, although I am not opposed entirely to including recipes as such. I am really pushed for time. Is this wise I ask myself? Does the world need another blog. It's a passion of mine, that I mentioned here.

We had a great weekend yesterday with the kidlets.

On Sunday, we 'discovered' a new park in Sandy Bay, Hobart, which I'm sure I remember someone telling me how great it is, but it's taken us since forever to get the gang there.

On Saturday, I took my no. 1 for a wee bushwalk up near Mt Wellington - the pipeline track. If you are in Hobart and have kidlets, do consider exploring this beautiful track. It's kid friendly, although I would say there are a few areas that are quite steep and unfenced, but mostly it's just great. You get to walk amoungst the treetops, and while you feel like you are really in the bush, it's only 10km from Hobart's CBD! Unbelievable. What a great city this is!

♥

Beautiful skies over Hobart

2011-06-13T14:45:00.000+10:00

Here in Tassie, we are making the most of the Queen's Birthday Public Holiday!

We have been blessed with the most blue sky today, and perfect kite flying weather.

After a craving for Donna Hay's pikelet recipe for morning tea!

Yummy lemon and sugar, and my farmer's market buy of Jam from Amanda Jammm, which was incredible. Such intense flavour and perfume in a tiny pot!

We unfortunately didn't spot any intense sunsets last night, because our house is on rather a steep hillside, but the eruption of a volcano in Chile has seen Tassie photographers snap some stunning scenes.

♥

Sunday musings & book winner/s announced

2011-06-05T19:31:00.001+10:00

Congratulations to Angela from Ange's Ramblings, who has won my book give-away! I was running the competition between this blog and my facebook page..and it was trickier than I thought given the fb comp rules..that I (ahem) am not very and completely up to speed on.

Hope you enjoy the book Angela. I have contacted you through FB.

Sorry I didn't have a photo of my little one doing the draw, things got a little crazy here tonight, and he pulled out your name before I thought of the camera.

We headed to the Botanical Gardens today for the EnviroFest, and came home with some lovely natives which we will plant in pots, given we don't know the longevity of our stay here in 'town'. Unusually I didn't bring my camera, but it was probably just as well, or I would have been taking pics of quinces tumbling from baskets, and display gazebos crashing to the ground! It was so completely over the top windy. And then, I burnt my tongue on a very hot latte. Interesting day. Well, I did say I would go whatever the weather!

And I am wondering whether the lovely Angela was there today?!

And it was very exciting to discover that I had won a book today, through Chunky Chooky Blog.

Thanks Cathy (oh and Penguin)!

♥

baking and making this weekend.

2011-06-04T19:09:00.005+10:00

The weather lately is certainly leaving me with a strong desire to stay inside.

I bought this great op shop curtain and cut up some panels to use as applique on these jeans - the fabric is a cotton/hemp blend. I love how they remind of 'Annie Oakley', I was obsessed with Annie Oakley when I was a kid, and even had a dress up costume...tres cool. (well I thought so at the time!)

So I was going to attach a cute sassy tassle on the leg hems, but then when she tried them on, I realised the length was just right. Incredible, but true.

These biscuits are my adaptation of a Donna Hay recipe. I added a little oat bran in the vain hope, they might make them a bit healthier!

Trust me, they are really yummy and moreish, and you won't be able to stop at just one!

Easy nutty bikkies.

125g butter

1/2 cup caster sugar

2 eggs

1 1/4 cups plain flour, sifted

1/4 oat bran

150g peanuts, granulated or chopped small

Preheat the oven 180 C. Cream butter and sugar with electric mixer until light and creamy.

Add eggs and mix til combined.

Fold through flour, bran, and then nuts.

Place tablespoons of mixture on tray, and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until golden.

Makes around 25.

Tomorrow we are going to the TreadLightly EnviroFest at the Hobart Botanical Gardens, whatever the weather! I can't wait.

Hope your weekend is tres happy!

(Don't forget to enter the give-away one post down! You have until Sunday)

♥

kidlets book give-away for crafty peeps

2011-06-02T21:33:00.002+10:00

I have a book to win, folks!

I ordered this from Fishpond, but when it arrived last week, I realised it was a duplication of another book that I had bought from Book Depository. (different cover)

So my little double up, could be just your goodluck!

Crafting with kids.

This book has simple craft ideas, and is perfect for a rainy winter day.

The rules:

Leave a comment here or over at my facebook page.

It would be so nice if you would be a follower or liker...just to make it 'even steven' for everyone.

And how about I add an extra entry if you share it on your blog, or your facebook page. Just tell me in your comment.

I'll draw a random entry and announce the winner Sunday evening.

Goodluck.

(Sorry, Australian entries only)

♥

Competition now closed, thanks.

welcome winter

2011-06-01T23:12:00.001+10:00

When the bold branches

Bid farewell to rainbow leaves -

Welcome wool sweaters.

~B. Cybrill

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♥

Autumn skies + dragonflies

2011-05-31T21:12:00.001+10:00

I love playing around with my new camera.

There is a never-ending array of beauty all around to capture, and I'm a bit addicted!

I love new, fun hobbies!

♥

exquisite embroidery at the Hobart Botanical Gardens

2011-05-27T22:24:00.000+10:00

I saw this wall hanging produced by the Hobart Embroiderers' Guild to celebrate Hobart's bi-centenary (in 2004), and it knocked my socks off...It's full of detail and richness, and the volunteer who let me into the room to show me, gave permission for me take these photos. I told her I was going to blog about them, and she said it was ok.

So my little discovery has become yours too!

It was a group project undertaken by 26 members of the Guild, called 'A Walk through the Gardens’, it 'provides the viewer with a feeling of the ambience and beauty of the gardens'...

What little discoveries have you made lately?

This ol' gardener carved from wood, stands outside the visitor's cottage where the hanging is displayed.

Every time we pass him, we try to to figure out why he's wearing this attire for gardening. It looks at though he's wearing his Sunday best.

Can anyone guess?

Happy weekend all

♥

this HAS to be the dinkiest garden I have ever seen

2011-05-25T22:23:00.000+10:00

I love this idea. A plant in a bottle cap! We're sprouting seeds at home this month, but nothing quite as tiny as this.

These kits come from Merry Shop in Japan, but you could easily do the same at home, just with some cotton wool, or potting mix, and some seeds.

Which proves you don't need a big space to have a garden.

And what a great way to upcycle those caps!

Love it!

♥

Ethical supermarket shopping guide

2011-05-23T19:31:00.000+10:00

I have just picked up one of these guides, and I can tell you it's the best $6.00 I have spent all year.

You can buy one from here or here.

You'll be sad, you'll be mad, but you'll never shop the same.

♥

feeling quite quiltish & quitting {a job}

2011-05-15T21:28:00.005+10:00

Boy, I can't tell you what a whirlwind of emotions it had been here a couple of weeks ago.

I applied for a job which involved a major portion of weekend time. (Am I an idiot or something?) To my surprise I got the job. (Then I realise THE mistake.)

After much turmoil and debating which took the better part of a week (could have saved myself and my hubbie the grief)....I decided I wouldn't take the job.

(BIG relief). HUGE.

I felt so relieved in fact, that an ENORMOUS wave of peace and energy has been reigning over me ever since.

I feel so very, very blessed to have a husband who doesn't put any pressure on me about anything, and laughs gently at me putting pressure on myself.

I feel to grateful have "re-gained" my precious family time, that every moment at the moment is being savoured.

This wave of energy knowing that I had released myself from a job I knew I would hate, (even before I began), opened up a world of opportunites for me in my mind.

I thought, I just want to make some stuff now, so a quilt top was started. The itching to make a quilt has been lying dormant in me for a while now...and I've been stashing fabric (as if you would never know!) Then I saw this...over at Cathy's. Thanks for the inspiration Cathy x.

Oh, my I thought I have this fabric in a jelly roll, and some other bits...I can do THIS.

I've still got to put a top and bottom border on.

Now I would like to make three tops by winters end, and somehow I am wondering...maybe this is an ambitious project? I have only ever made one tiny cot sized quilt before, yonks ago, and oh, the devastation that quilt caused - it faded DRAMATICALLY. It had left me wounded to ever want to quilt again.

But I like jelly rolls, I like the sound of them, and I like how modern and easy they make quilt making.

I got a tonne of books from the library, but in the end they all seemed inappropriate and somewhat fussy, plus I wanted the fabrics to speak for themselves. So I chopped and arranged, making the most of the jelly roll that I had left (I had used some in a skirt for my daughter - oops), and so far I'm loving this process.

I am gonna cheat and get a long arm quilting service to quilt it. then I'll tackle the binding ...then I can get on with the other two, eh?

Happy days indeed.

♥

I ♥ my job

2011-05-12T10:13:00.000+10:00

It's funny yesterday that I was writing about passions, and then today one of my bunting sets has been featured in a 'bunting passion' treasury on Etsy. So nice I'm not the only one who loves to make bunting, something fun. I am truly blessed to do what I am doing.

Have a great day everyone.

♥

What are you really passionate about? This is my list...

2011-05-11T13:19:00.003+10:00

Hello.  I've been trying to find my blog voice again, and pondering it's direction.
What to include, what to leave out, what the heck I want to write about. Should write about. Or what on earth you might like to read about.  At the end of the road, I just saw what I need to write about are those things that really drive me, the things that make me want to change to world, the things that keep me up at night, the things I love. Predominately I need to write for me, and if you like any of it, I'll be chuffed.
This is my list so far this morning, and it's in not in order of importance:

MY.LIST.OF.PASSIONS.

:: Encouraging children to create, so many ways to lure them away from those screens.
:: The importance of play for both adults and kids. Family time together.
:: Good children's nutrition, good food for all. Not vegetarian, but sustainable, good food. Food that still resembles it's origins.
:: Nature, the seasonality of life...like bringing little bits of nature inside the house, whether that's a nature table, or wooden toys for the children. I just love things of stone and wood.
:: Forgiving myself for not being perfect, as a mother, a wife, or a friend. Forgiveness all round, really.
:: Human rights: especially children who suffer neglect, abuse, kidnapping/trafficking / 3rd world water crisis / homelessness.
:: Being outside, in a park, or a garden, or the beach, or visiting a friend's farm. Breathing in fresh air. It really bugs me when my kids have been inside all day.
:: My little home-based business, that I have dreams and hopes for, and yep, I'll admit it, sometimes I'm a little bit proud of.
:: Making and growing in so many guises...I get cranky if I haven't produced something.
:: Creating a nice, warm cosy home environment. Yep, I'm the master of the still life.

Well that's it so far...I liked sharing it with you.
What's your biggest, biggest bugbear?...and I don't mean the never ending chore list, and the price of tea in China, unless of course you're someone like Verity, who knows so much about tea, you would expect her to be passionate about that. What's that thing you could do all day, and love it again tomorrow?
What about you? What pushes your buttons? What bubbles your boiler?
One thing I noticed when I was writing my list, is that I got a little tingle from it. I hope your list gives you goosebumps, that's a good sign you're really passionate about something!

♥

Easter & Chestnuts

2011-04-24T22:19:00.000+10:00

I hope you had a lovely Easter dear readers. Our family (the town mice), went down south today and visited our friends (the country mice), and we had a special time together. After an egg hunt, in which lots of little kiddies from the country lane near our friends house, found their goodies in baskets ranging from paper to wicker, we went inside and roasted the biggest, sweetest chestnuts on the fire. The chestnuts I have to tell you, were gathered by my mum who has a tree in her backyard that provides the most beautiful shade in the summer. That tree reminds me of my dad, who could never see any sense in planting anything in the backyard that didn't produce food. But my mum, who is elderly and not very mobile, went to some effort to gather the nuts, and then organised to send them down to us. We did not spend this Easter with my mum nor my dad this Easter, and that is ok, and sometimes not ok.
Whatever Easter means to you, I hope that you get some time for reflection, and for thinking about the sacrificies that others have made to your life.

♥

my bunting featured on Dena Designs blog!

2011-04-16T07:55:00.002+10:00

I was excited to find my Kumari Garden Bunting featured on the Dena Designs blog this morning, as I heart this designer as one of my favourites. When I saw 'Kumari Garden', I just knew it had to be made into bunting!! Check out Dena Designs here.

Have a lovely weekend peeps.

♥

what is a market but a pop up shop anyway?

2011-04-12T13:41:00.000+10:00

Aren't 'handmade craft' markets getting very stylish these days?....

These pics are courtesy of Photobat from the Apron Design Market in Launceston, recently.

(I love the fact that stall holders are given a whole marquee to display their wares - that would be bliss!)

That fab vintage typewriter belongs to a market friend of mine - Rosie from Notions. She always finds the most amazing props for her vintage inspired goodies, indeed.

And I love the look of this pop up shop by Harvest Textiles....

Well. So far for me, I shall be content with a wee online presence, and the occasional trestle at my local markets here in Hobart.

♥

how far can a bowl of rice go?

2011-04-07T21:10:00.004+10:00

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Well, it can go pretty far!

$14.00 for 10 kilos of rice, fed 150 school children and teachers at my son's school yesterday.

You might say, that's pretty economical and it would be, but take it further and donate a gold coin for your bowl of rice, and suddenly you have $200. A great teaching lesson for fund-raising for a school building project in Farajok, Sudan. Along with pupils experiencing a humble meal, their school work was done under a tree that day, just like the school in Sudan!

This is part of a wider fund-raising effort for this project -they've already made $200 from rock shifting! And the school is also madly collecting 5c - it's amazing to see how that's adding up!

more than 80 percent of southern Sudan's rural population does not have access to electricity.
A girl born in southern Sudan has a better chance of dying during pregnancy or childbirth than of completing primary school.
Some 95,000 Sudanese children under the age of five died last year as a result of preventable diseases in southern Sudan.
About 400 BC, the ox-driven water wheel was introduced to the Sudan. It still plays a vital role in the country's economy.

facts from here

♥

yummy new fabric

2011-03-30T11:38:00.001+11:00

I am so happy with this 'taster' selection for some new kiddies bunting sets...that I just had to show you!

What do you think?

♥

where does time go my little poppet?

2011-03-29T11:43:00.000+11:00

Sometimes you are so independant, happy and keen to go off on your own, to discover new things....

Then, you are just a babe again in my arms, tired, and wanting a cuddle.

I'll cherish these days always.

snaps from the Bream Creek country fair

2011-03-22T09:59:00.002+11:00

Last Sunday, we enjoyed a great family day at the Bream Creek country fair ~ I loved this day!

Character filled and full of characters, I reckon it's a slice of pure Tasmania. Can't believe we actually missed the woodchopping...but this last pic is a compressed sand, wood fired oven - pretty neat! We watched the fellow work on it all day, and if memory serves me correctly, he told me it was made from

2 tonne of sand.

(Now, I am off to do some work! My blogging posts are getting rarer these days, it seems time is somehow becoming compressed too!)

Hope you are having a lovely week peeps.

♥

every drop counts

2011-03-16T18:07:00.000+11:00

It's the children mostly that I think of in Japan.

'Children in evacuation centres are sleeping on cardboard in freezing weather. Many have been separated from their parents or possibly orphaned. They are tired and afraid and the tragedy they have experienced is overwhelming.'

World Vision's response so far on this crisis;

An assessment team from World Vision Japan arrived in the north-east of Japan to identify the needs of survivors. Distribution of relief items for 6,000 people in the northern city of Tome will commence on Thursday 17 March, including:

9,000 blankets

130,000 nappies & wet wipes for babies and children

100,000 sanitary napkins for women

4,800 bottled water (0.5 litre per bottle)

The creation of Child Friendly Spaces is also a possibility, to assess and support the psycho-social needs of children resulting from the disaster.

Donate here.

image

♥

Dragonfly Bunting {for Japan}

2011-03-13T21:37:00.001+11:00

A Prayer for Japan

There are countless ways to donate through handmade, either by purchasing from a seller, or donating an item.

My meagre offering for this atrocious and tragic event, is this dragonfly bunting, whose fabric has been designed in Japan.

{SOLD}

Sometimes, when we see a problem so huge, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and small.

It's not a reason to give up.

♥

pics of the last fruits of our labour from our last house + other delights = oh how lucky we are

2011-03-04T18:22:00.002+11:00

The tomato crop was appalling i'm afraid...these tomatoes are the heirloom variety that we bought from the Botanical Gardens last year, the big yellow ones are 'Tasmanian Blushing Yellow', and the little ones are 'Snow White' (this is for you Floss!)

Still you can't complain at all when there is a great pizza place in town...

And if all else fails, you can add the Hobart farmers market on Sunday's to an abundance of harvest blessings....

followed by a baked custard in my $2 'corning ware' op shop find...

thanks to my friend, Helen who provides us with the yummiest free range eggs ever.

I can't wait to get stuck into the herb garden at our new place this weekend...i can't live without fresh parsley, and baulk at having to buy it. Our son has even promised to help me with getting it ready, how sweet of him...that is after we finish setting up his fish tank with actual real fishies!

Have a great weekend, peeps.

♥

package from Dottie

2011-03-02T13:09:00.000+11:00

I ordered something from Dottie Angel's Etsy shop for a friend's birthday, and it's arrived in the post today...I was quite excited at the prospect, as this is my first Dottie purchase..and with all the Dottie hype and all...

So, when i opened the envelope inside, i was intriqued at the packaging...

Not a doily in sight.

But then i thought, oh, perhaps i need to open this to re-wrap it properly...and then i thought the better of that, and decided it was just lovely as it was...

But then i really, really wanted to see what the goodies themselves looked like...

so i did this...i pulled just a little to reveal....

And that was as far as it went.

I couldn't take things any further...less i cause a serious case of presentus spoilus.

♥

la nostra casa

2011-03-01T20:14:00.000+11:00

Well, technically it's not ours, but we are making ourselves at home, and have settled in nicely, thank you very much! It's affectionately known as 'the cottage'. And we love it.

♥

winner drawn

2011-02-27T20:17:00.000+11:00

Hurrah! This was a really fun thing to do! (my first give-away, and about time too!)

I had 25 entries on my facebook page to win a set of pastel rainbow bunting flags, and I'm pleased to say the winner has been drawn this evening. And it is indeed a small world, this land of blog & facebook, because I even know the winner! Lauren and I first met when we were selling our wares at a market in Hobart. I even follow her beautiful family orientated blog!

Congratulations to Lauren and her owlets of course! ♥

I like the anticipation of an old-fashioned draw, plus i don't know how to use one of those computer draw thingies, or maybe i'm too lazy to find out!

Here is my darling boy after we had folded everyone names on paper in half very carefully, and he did a very studious shuffle, and picked a random winner!

This photo has made me realise he needs a haircut bad. He doesn't like having his hair cut. Even when he was a little baby, when i was breastfeeding him, he would touch the back of his head, and fondle his gorgeous orange locks. Nothings changed! He really likes to keep the length, and as I am the one who cuts his hair, we often have great discussion about how many nano millimeters to agree on to cut!

♥

rainbow bunting give-away

2011-02-23T21:11:00.000+11:00

Hi blog readers,

It's been a while coming, but I said once I reached 100 'likers' on my facebook page, I would do a give-away! Please pop over and leave a comment for a chance to be in on the draw, if you like!

Ends this Sunday.

Luisa

♥

Festa Italia

2011-02-20T21:28:00.000+11:00

One of the things i like best about living in Hobart, is the chance to catch up on the little events and festivals that happen. We visited Festa Italia in North Hobart today, and had a slice of the most delicious pizza ever in Hobart by Da Angelo. (i mean ever) And followed that by the freshest Crostoli..crunch crunch. It was a bit of a carb fest!

They were yummy, but i miss the way my mum used to make them with lemon zest and a touch of grappa!

And I still haven't figured out why the apparent obsession with Tom Jones with the festival organisers, must be a big hit with the oldies?!

We didn't stay for the spaghetti or watermelon eating contest...but it was a fun day out.

Not bad for a street party, but there was no bunting. Oh, how they could have done with some green, white and red flags, that way it would look like a real street party!

Hobart - love it!

♥

bye old neighbourhood

2011-02-11T17:10:00.002+11:00

♥

ok it's official - we're moving

2011-02-07T21:21:00.004+11:00

Those big changes I was waxing lyrical about in this post is finally happening, right now, as we speak. This week. This crazy, long week already. I'm both excited and exhausted at the idea of it all. Our family has been living in our current house for almost 4 years, and it's the only house 'b' has ever known. But actually for the rest of us, it's the 3rd move in 4 years - that is a bit crazy. I've been putting off this post, but as i get further along, i realise it's going to be impossible in a couple of days, once we are well and truly in the thick of it.

image

So, just a few little tidbits about it all for those who are just a little curious: We are moving from what was about 10 years ago, a little sleepy country town i guess you could say, but as we are standing now, it's becoming building metropolis. You know, move over cows, hello concrete and brick, and just a little too much ticky tacky houses for my liking. But, golly no, that is not at all why we are going. And, you'll never guess where we're heading, can you? We're going into the hubhub of: (drumroll please)

HOBART!

Yep, the big smoke itself, folks. I bet you would have never guessed that one, eh?

Have I surprised you? Well i think this time, i may have surprised myself. Certainly twelve, even six months ago, it was something i would never have dreamed of happening (not even in my dream dreams). I do rather like it though, when this kind of thing happens. We are going to be living in a turn of the century cottage, and as care-takers of a property in town, on a medium term assignment. We've done it before, sans kids. This time, with two in tow, well it's going to be different. And fun. I'm looking so forward to visiting parks, and places we never had time or energy to bother with so much living out of town. I'm really looking forward to our new little adventure.
And although Hobart is not exactly culture central, it does have some pretty good cafes. Jackman and McRoss is one of my faves...hurrah!

images

I've even discovered a site on the 'top ten places to buy food in Hobart'. Now, i'll be needing that, won't i?

But how on earth the farmer's market got missed off this list, i'll never know.

Oh, i'll also be needing the 'top ten places in Hobart to drink coffee'. Mm, research needed.

♥

yum

2011-02-06T20:35:00.000+11:00

quilt by Golden Gate Quilts

by Laura Gunn

♥

Do you heart this bunting as much as i do?

2011-02-02T14:46:00.000+11:00

image from we ♥ it

Isn't this super duper gorgeous?!

I am so happy to see blue skies again today!

♥

top interior trends for 2011

2011-02-01T08:05:00.000+11:00

Here is an article from About Property in the UK....confirming that bunting is an essential item in decorating! Well, I never knew!

{Coastal}
Perfect if you live near the sea, or just dream of moving closer to the coast, this year’s nautical theme celebrates the British love affair with the ocean and the landscapes that frame it.
Distressed wood, wicker furniture and rope-detail accessories are paired with crisp and clean textiles in white and blue tones. With its focus on the natural world, this look works just as well as an alfresco theme, so invest in hammocks and wooden-frame deckchairs to complete the fresh seaside feel.
Add interest with coastal prints and nautical stripes on soft furnishings, and string bunting and glass lanterns outside when entertaining.
{Puritan Folk}
An eclectic mix of utilitarian craftsmanship and traditional ethnic prints, the Puritan Folk trend juxtaposes rough textured materials with soft, silky textiles.
Mockie Harrison, of John Lewis Home, explains how the department store has interpreted the look:
“Our collection for spring is a diverse mix of beautifully crafted furniture and lighting partly influenced by mid-twentieth century modern, and soft furnishings inspired by folk patterns from Morocco, South America and Russia. A pot pourri of global references with exuberant colour, calmed by cool neutrals.”
Aztec-inspired geometric tiled prints, as well as beaded details, patchwork quilting and wall hangings offer instant updates.
{Vintage}
Kitsch pastel colours and floral prints bring a 1950s feel to interior design schemes this year.
With a focus on idyllic domestic life and entertaining at home, retro-style baking accessories brighten up kitchen décor and bunting helps bring an air of street-party celebration to tea parties.
Floral prints on linens and quilts give bedding a country cottage air while white-washed wicker accessories add the finishing touches to bedrooms and bathrooms.
Mix flea market finds, such as antique tea cups, with contemporary vintage-inspired pieces by designers including Rob Ryan to create an diverse look in your home.
{Classic}
If you’re a traditionalist, the current interior design focus on old English elegance may appeal more than the busy vintage and folk trends.
White, cream and beige tones on walls and linens are contrasted with furniture in dark-stained woods and wrought iron to great this sophisticated look. While minimalism is central to the theme, draped fabrics, plush linens and plump towels make for a luxurious finish.
Add antique touches to give your home a classical feel – frame old maps and manuscripts, place a clock on your mantelpiece and invest in an iconic green desk lamp.

Hope you're having a good start to the week - see you later...

♥

tada!

2011-01-30T09:31:00.002+11:00

Here she is folks...our 'new' vintage piece of joy!

Many of you already know about my passion and insane desire to own a vintage caravan. (I'm a bit nuts over anything little, and homey, but that's another story)

Well after nuturing this dream quietly, and not so quietly, a couple of weeks ago, we found her, and i was besotted!

It still feels a bit surreal.

Here are a few details about her....

She's a 12 foot custom made Bondwood caravan, her exact date of manufacture is a bit sketchy, but it's mid - late 50's.

We are so grateful that her condition is so good for her age, I'll post more pics of the inside, once I wipe over the red dust from Lightening Ridge (NSW)!

A big thanks needs to go to my hubbie John, and Adam for the big trip over to Melbourne to collect her.

Honestly, what is love, if it isn't my darling sweetie enduring two 10 hour boat trips in 2 days!?

And, Adam, what a great friend you are for your support.

It's a credit to her former owners, that she has been tended so lovingly over the last 10 years, and I suddenly felt yesterday, so heavy with the responsibility that comes with a vintage item! We are now the custodians, with a duty to tend and treat her well...after all she has quirks!

I have plans to colour her up a bit......

She needs definitely needs a name ...maybe I could run a competition on the blog?

My sister has kindly sent me her short list!

Happy Days!!

to come!!!

My kids are already loving spending time in it.....

♥

our new baby has arrived!

2011-01-29T20:57:00.003+11:00

(It's not what you think!)

Delivery finally happened at 12.00am this morning after a very long labour...and, so far i can tell you, she's bigger than 8 pounds, she doesn't cry, but she needs tender loving care, and has already caused some sleepless nights. And what a wonderful addition to our family she will be.
And she'll need a name of course.

Pics coming soon!

♥

riley blake fabric giveaway contest

2011-01-26T16:12:00.000+11:00

Hi there folks!
You have until the 28th (this Friday) to enter this fab competition if you are into fabric like me! Lilla Tueller Designs has the details on her site. The fabric is called 'Isabella', and here's a little secret of mine....this name has a special ring to it for me, cause i always thought if i had a little girl, that would be her name! That didn't quite eventuate...even though we did have a girl! Funny how life turns out, eh?

♥

Hello

2011-01-23T15:24:00.001+11:00

Hello there, it's nice to be back in blogosphere.
Actually, I can't believe almost 6 weeks has passed by since my last post. There's been lots and lots happening in my life lately, and big changes are about to happen which affect all our family. Life is funny in it's twists and turns...sometimes you just never know what is around the corner. I can't say the last 6 weeks have been all that predictable, although in comparison to those poor souls in Queensland after the flood, it's hardly bothersome. And i did manage to get a few gin and tonics in. So, you could say this little post is a bit of an ice-breaker!
See you soon.

Etsy seller reyaveltman - natural pebbles.

♥

see you next year sometime...

2010-12-14T19:27:00.003+11:00

Hello everyone.
I have blog burnout.
I have decided to stop posting until next year, and will be taking some time to regroup, and refresh.
I'll be sitting on a porch sipping a g + t.
Or lying in a hammock.
Or building sandcastles.

image

I'll still be visiting, every now and again. ♥

Thanks for a great year of blogging friendships, and thanks to each and every one of you who came by and left a comment or two. Your lovely comments make my day.

I send you all my heartfelt wishes for a safe and happy Christmas.

xoxo

my heart on a blog plate - a pause in Advent {week 3}

2010-12-13T20:48:00.003+11:00

This advent post has come of a bit of a surprise to me, because i have been thinking a lot about what to say this week, and i think what i want to say most of all, is nothing.
Not that there is nothing to say, but that i have run out of steam, and blogging is the furtherest thing in my heart to do lately.
I wonder what if in ten year's time, any of my blogosphere friendships will matter?
I wonder whether this is time really best spent?
What i perished next week, what would it say on my epitaph? 'She blogged'.
I wonder what the point of all the pretty things is i look at?
Then, there is blog / craft envy. I don't need that. Does any of us?

A friend of mine, many years ago, told me of his little interest in watching tv. What is the point, he said, of himself watching other people live their lives? Sometimes, i feel very much, that is what the blogosphere is like?
Can you relate?
I need a break, folks. Is that alright?
It's not that i spend oodles of time, posting...but i do spent lots of time composing posts in my head. (some never make it to 'print'!) My headspace if you like, is full of blog posts...and i really want it to be thinking of other stuff. Stuff that my heart is longing to be.
I'll be back, i promise. One thing i won't promise, is when. (Maybe it'll be for a pause for Advent week 4!)

It's summer. I want to spend time with my kids.
I want to live.
This could be a spiritual awakening. This is good. Christmas time always has me thinking about the disparity between the poor and the rich.

A few things I have learned about myself this year:
I can spent as much on thrifted items, as new ones.
I have said yes, when i should have said no.
I have missed opportunities.
I have rekindled friendships.
I have said no to some friendships.
I never gonna get 'it' 100% perfect.
The candle is burning, and yet it will never be extinguished.

God bless you all.

Who knows what other revelations will appear?...read the posts by other 'a pause for Advent'urers at Floss' place.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

quilty

2010-12-11T19:54:00.001+11:00

Lately, all i can think about is making a quilt. I want to make two, actually - one for each of my kids. To use as throw rugs, cause they just love to snuggle and cuddle underneath anything blankety. So, obviously one wouldn't be enough - they would just argue.
I know i ~~should~~ could be thinking about what Christmassy baking i'll be making soon, but all i can think about is what fabrics i could be buying to make these quilts...(insert dreamy look)
My first and last quilt was made over 15 years ago, and i was just so proud of it, i decided instead of putting it away for the 'baby' (it was a cot sized quilt) and because i was habouring no maternal intentions, i hung it pride of place in my living room, which faced north. Well after a decade, as you can imagine, it was a shade of it's former self, - literally. The lovely cream and navy Japanesy fabrics were shabbier than shabby chic...... my heart was broken, and i declared i would never make a quilt again.
Well, now i do...and it seems there is no shortage of inspiration on the web!
rOssie has an astounding amount of fellow quilters pledging to show and tell the story along the way in the ever, never-ending story of quilt making.
I wonder if i'll be joining one day.

inspiration...

images courtesy of Oh, Fransson!

♥

Christmas Gift Guide #2 ~ quick and easy Aussies

2010-12-09T14:03:00.000+11:00

Quick and easy to pack, light to post.
Nice.

Zinnia prints by Flowerpress

Linocut ruby red teacup stack by Ruby Victoria

Pencil rolls by Loopee Designs

♥

Why Worry about Christmas? - a pause in Advent {week 2}

2010-12-06T21:01:00.004+11:00

True story #1
Today I learned about some friends who lost their massive shed, 2 cars, precious family memories (including her mum and dad's heritage wedding photos), in a fire that raged into the night, and only ended in the wee hours this morning. Thankfully, no-one was hurt, and their house was spared.
True story #2
Exactly one year + 1 day ago, I posted about a true miracle in every sense of the word - even now as I am more aware of the details of that story, it is the stuff of awe.

The son of our friends who lost their shed, walked down their driveway to the road, with a flashtorch, to wait & beacon the fire trucks. (They live on a quiet, rural road). Almost immediately, someone happened to be driving past, & stopped to help. (not the called fire brigade). The person who stopped was a fire-fighter.
Some might call it a co-incidence, some call it a GOD-incidence. It alters your perspective.

Both sets of friends in story 1 & 2 believe in a sovereign God.
One that is in full control of everything that happens to us, good and bad.
They both believe in the end, whatever happens in this life, is a small matter compared to a future glory.

When yucky stuff seems to happen around Christmas time, do you think maybe it's amplified just a little?
I'm hearing of people's cancers returning, having to spend time away from family at Christmas time. It's a really difficult time of year to be dealing with this stuff, when there is so much pressure all around to 'be happy', and enjoy the festivities of the season.
I think Christmas brings up a lot of stuff - literally and figuratively speaking.
I think Christmas is about everything.

Worry - plastic tree vs real tree
Worry - how much to spend on presents?
Worry - what should we eat? Who's house this year? Kris Kringle? Turkey or Ham? Both?
Worry - eco present vs big box convenience vs ethical giving vs handmade.
Worry - what do we believe? I mean really? How do we make it meaningful for the kids, without being religious?
Worry - recycle wrapping.
Worry - ???

You know that expression, 'the devil's in the details'? Or, 'God is in the details'?
For some reason, all last week, that has been in my head.
And then after that I watched a couple of shows - Richard Hammond's 'Invisible Worlds' - nanoscale facts that knocked-me-off-my-feet. But as I watched Immortal last evening, (watch it here), I was compelled to learn about an enzyme (called telomeres) that can cause cells to 'live' forever, or cause cancer (well that's the simplified verson!). It's all a delicate balance.

The 'hook' at the end of the show, was that by worrying less, and treating your body kindly, you can actually over time increase the length of the telomeres, thus lengthening your life, (if you are already suffering chronic stress).

Now, here I'll quote Jesus!
'Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?'
Matthew 6:27

Nuh!

I think God is in the details...as nano science reveals, is full of design. Something so beautiful as a snowflake, is full of design. God's design work is in everything! It's not a hodgepodge potluck.

above image

all others images from here.

I think God cares about the little stuff that happens to us, as much as the big stuff.
The God of the macro, the God of the micro.

'Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.'
Luke 12:7

More bloggers thoughts on 'Advent' - lighthearted and meaningful over at Floss' place.

if in doubt, live with it

2010-12-06T13:55:00.002+11:00

I've taken this little excerpt from Seth Godin's blog today, to especially encourage those of you in the handmade or small business world to keep going!

image

Living with doubt

'... is almost always more profitable than living with certainty.
People don't like doubt, so they pay money and give up opportunities to avoid it. Entrepreneurship is largely about living with doubt, as is creating just about any sort of art.
If you need reassurance, you're giving up quite a bit to get it.
On the other hand, if you can get in the habit of seeking out uncertainty, you'll have developed a great instinct.'

Does this resonate with you? Does it hold true for your personal circumstances? It does for me.
Sometimes, it might be easier to walk away from the challenges that lie ahead, and keep you awake at night.
I think sometimes though, setting ourselves a time limit, and knowing when to say 'enough's enough' is a healthy thing to do.

Pop back later in the week, won't you...I have some lovely pics of a book I am just champing at the bit to show you!
Also, my 'a pause in advent' post will be coming later today.
Keep smiling. ♥

Christmas Gift Guide #1 ~ little girl's dresses

2010-12-02T20:55:00.003+11:00

This is the first of a series of new posts that i will be running prior to Christmas.

The focus will be on handmade or small production runs of lovely things, that would be just perfect for that special gift. And gifts with a sustainable living message.

This first little gift guide is a taster of the amazing array of talent in the handmade world, and will show how easy it is to support fair trade, and eco products!

Use this guide as a springboard to search for local product.

Please support handmade.

So here is a small selection of adorable little dresses for little misses ~~ who can possibly resist them?

i simply can't!

by samibop

by everything but the thread

by miss haidee

by I love bread and jam

by nara design

by sewn natural

by everything but the thread

Get them to make their own little dress! ~~ If you're in Australia, and you have an inkling that the recipient of your gift is a crafty sort, you could even buy them some fabric from online seller Amber, from Fresh Fabric Australia. Her pricing is great, and she's also a very friendly seller. Patterns and fabric can also be found on the Kelani Fabric website, or try Duckcloth. The Haby Goddess has a great range of very funky haberdashery, and patterns for the modern sewer. Check out her post on why it's so good to buy handmade, here.

If you have a small handmade business anywhere, making little girl's dresses, (even amongst other things!) please feel free to leave a link in the comments, so others can find you.

♥

my creative space - red Christmassy things

2010-12-02T09:38:00.001+11:00

My creative space = catching up on orders!

I also have some limited edition 'deery santa' bags left -

hand screen printed by me...

they make great little present carriers...

The first offering goes to you my blog readers ~~ and

postage FREE anywhere within Australia!

only $10 each.

pretty cool, huh?

just contact me on danceinmygarden@netspace.net.au

Catch up with other Thursday 'creative space players' on Kirsty's blog...

Hope you are having yourselves a lovely week.

♥♥♥

eames is child's play

2010-12-01T14:15:00.000+11:00

What do you get when you combine mid century architecture with a child's toy?
This...

Inspired by this...

The Eames house was was constructed in 1949 by husband-and-wife design pioneers Charles and Ray Eames, to serve as their home and studio.

It was built as part of a series of case study houses sponsored by a US journal, Arts and Architecture, the aim of the project was to foster innovative design, and they were particularly interested in using new materials and techniques.

It was built in a pre-fab sort of way, with glass and panels, separated by an open court.

It overlooks Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean...

You may think it was decorated in a minimalist style...

not so....

Eames Blocks

colour me kona

2010-11-30T20:09:00.000+11:00

I do love a rainbow.

A fabric rainbow.

Would be...

Just what I need!

Above images from Badskirt blog

Happy days ♥

Inspiring wedding bunting

2010-11-29T14:08:00.000+11:00

This is what bunting was made for!

Celebration!

Love it, love it, love it!

Simple white bunting in Harlestone Village Hall, Northhamptonshire, UK

Yellow was the theme for this happy, sunny wedding and what would be better than yellow bunting strung along with fairy lights inside the boat cruising the river Dart, UK?

pretty

lace bunting

image from Inspired by This

Have a great week ♥

a pause in Advent - 'the rule of reciprocity'

2010-11-28T14:04:00.003+11:00

I'm joining Floss from 'Troc, Broc and Recup' again this year, as a collective of bloggers, who are posting each Sunday or Monday, about what they find meaningful at this time of year leading up to Christmas. Just click on the side bar on this blog, and look for this 'a pause in Advent' logo, to find the others participating.

Whilst my intention isn't to be super freaky religious, (and scare you all away!), but if I'm to think about this seriously at all, I am going to reflect personally on those things I 'do' and 'believe' at Christmas time. Stuff that challenges my very status quo.
My first post is simply an extract of a devotional written by the late Selwyn Hughes ~~ and it's all about giving.

'If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?' - Matthew 5:46

'The general view of love is that it involves reciprocity. In every part of the world, and in every culture, this is an unspoken rule of social life. If I buy you a coffee this obligates you to say 'thank you' and perhaps, at some time in the future, to buy me one.
The rule is this: we should appreciate things done for us and return people's favours. People are considered rude when they break the unwritten rule of reciprocity. Gifts need to be of a similar value. Giving a cheap gift to someone when he or she has given us an expensive one makes us feel uncomfortable. Forgetting to send a Christmas card to a person who has sent us one, and finding it is too late to make the exchange, can dampen the delights of Christmas. Some are not beyond manipulating relationships for personal gain by deliberately building up a sense of indebtedness in others. If we want a favour from someone we take that person out to lunch, thus putting them in a position where turning us down might make them feel awkward.'
In the verse above in blue, 'Jesus cuts through this social norm and shows that agape love stretches far beyond the rule of reciprocity. Agape love is not returning smile for smile, or favour for favour.
The Samaritan didn't play by the rule of reciprocity when he got off his donkey to help the injured traveller. He far exceeded it . The law of 'tit for tat' - of measure for measure - is out: the new law of excess is in. The old law has been overtaken - by agape.'

Hope you have a great week ♥

my creative space - fresh break

2010-11-25T08:51:00.000+11:00

no creating...just a break from creating for now, and a lovely drive in the countryside....

then back home...

other creative spaces happen on Thursdays here....

Thanks for visiting today...

Peonies - just in

2010-11-24T13:44:00.000+11:00

image

This just in from Karen Wagner Garden Design in Hobart!

'For the next few weeks, we have been lucky to have the most beautiful bunches of locally grown peonies in different colours in store.

$20 per bunch

Absolutely beautiful. Don’t miss out – only available for the 3-4week season.'

Wouldn't they make a lovely gift?
For those Hobartians that don't know, the address is 84 Warwick Street, Hobart.

It's been a bit of a hard slog

2010-11-23T21:21:00.002+11:00

The market on Sunday was very busy, it wasn't until about 1pm, that i was aware that you could actually see the timber floor.
This was my last market for the year, and although i have some custom orders to fullfill, I am going to use the time over the Christmas + new year break to regroup.
I have just found out, that Beth's carer can no longer care for her. While that's only for a short time each week, I have no other support to rely on. We all have to work out our limits, and capabilites, and something sometimes needs to give. Plus, she has just gotten over another illness requiring more anti-biotics. I'm a firm believer, that things happen for a reason. Balancing... weaknesses with strengths. My weakness is i am never very fast at getting things done...my strength is that i don't give up easily. Having a perfectionist streak is both a weakness and a strength.
I can't say anything about this handmade, micro business has been easy this year. Juggling family life, with everything else.
well. you. know.

So, please let me share some pics from my last market for 2010...

My lovely friend Gail, made these bunting cards....aren't they sweet?

Thanks needs to go to these wonderful people, without whose support I would be poorer indeed...
My friend Belinda, who came along to give me a loo break, but was beaten by Miriam from Nara Design, (my favourite children's wear designer!) who came to 'rescue me' from her own stall upstairs, and Karen from Karen Wagner Garden Design who came by to say hello.
The encouragement, and continuing friendship from these ladies, as well as Rosie from Notions, Narelle, from Ruby Victoria Letterpress, and Tamsin, from the Flatpack Bakers, makes this handmade life worthwhile.
xo

my creative space - Christmas market head space

2010-11-18T09:48:00.000+11:00

So many last minute things on the go, paint in pots sitting outside waiting to be smeared on a screen, fabric everywhere, photos to be put into frames....and no camera to be found to show you any of it. Perhaps it's just as well, it's rather chaotic!

However I will share this little snippet of what I think is a great piece of market display wisdom from Megan Reardon, a quote taken from the book 'the Handmade Marketplace', by Kari Chapin.
I know a lot of us bloggers are prepping for stalls for Christmas, and when you're so busy it's sometimes hard to see forest for trees. She says...

'When I go to craft fairs, I'm drawn to booths that clearly communicate what the maker is selling and look tidy and bright but also abundant'.

Worth sticking on your fridge I reckon.

There are also Flickr groups to help with display ideas ~~
1 Show me your booths.
2 Arts and crafts fairs and shows

Also check out the link to my post 'top ten tips - visual merchandising for market stalls' on the right hand column.
Have a great day!

If you found this post helpful, please refer it on to others who may find it helpful too. x

For lovely creative spaces playing along this week, head over to Kirsty's place.

today

2010-11-16T22:29:00.001+11:00

In the space of 1 hour in blogland, I have read of a death and then a birth. My own realisation of my first pregnancy came as we were in the midst of burying my husband's mother.
Last night, I was watching 'Undercover Boss' on tv, and was taken aback with the soft and human approach of the CEO of Toga Hospitality, Rachel Argaman.

'...I have spread my dreams under your feet;
Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.'
William Butler Yeats

We're all a bit fragile at times, I ebb and flow like everyone. Have doubts like everyone. Think too much.
Wonder. Cry. Believe.

ye ol' fashioned fun fair

2010-11-14T15:16:00.000+11:00

This is the one I hang out for all year...the Tarremah Spring Fair....this year was especially sweet when Bethany got to go into the Children's Tent all by herself and pick something(s) out, (all by herself). The music, the food, the atmosphere, the homemade lovelieness...perfect.

adornment...

family fun...

surprises...

reach for the sky...

challenges won...

buttercake + butter cream = blissfully delicious cake

2010-11-12T12:31:00.000+11:00

I was so wanting to share the recipe for the buttercake from yesterday's post with you - it is absolutely the best and moistest buttercake, and the one recipe I turn to again and again for its reliability, and the flavour. The recipe is from the 2005 'Australian Women's Weekly Kid's Party Cakes book'.

Basic Buttercake

125g butter, softened

1/2 ts vanilla extract

3/4 cup caster sugar

2 eggs

1 & 1/2 cups (225g) self raising flour

1/2 cup (125ml) milk

Preheat oven to moderate. Grease and line pan(s).

Beat butter, extract and sugar in small bowl with electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Beat in eggs, one at a time, until combined.

Stir in flour and milk, in two batches.

Spread mixture into prepared pan(s).

Bake in moderate oven (180C) until cake is cooked. (skewers are fine here)

Stand cake in pan 5 - 10 minutes, then turn onto wire rack to cool.

(If you are using just one cake tin, you can double the quantity for a nice high cake.)

Butter cream

(also known as vienna cream)

125g butter, softened

1 & 1/2 cups (240g) icing sugar mixture

2 Tbs milk

Beat butter in small bowl with electric mixer until as white as possible. Gradually beat in half of the icing sugar, milk, then remaining icing sugar. Flavour and colour as required. I added some lemon rind to the last cake I made...heavenly.

Chocolate variation: sift 1/3 cup (35g) cocoa powder in with the first batch of icing sugar.

Happy baking.

my creative space - birthday celebrations

2010-11-11T05:29:00.003+11:00

So, what have you been up to?

Last weekend was huge for us, actually all last week was, I have so much to blog about, and yet no time to share it!

I made B's birthday crown...was quite pleased with how it turned out, my first attempt at embroidery, or at a crown for that matter...a chain stitch for the 'B', and some lazy daisy's on the side. I used beautiful quality 100% wool felt from Germany...you can get that from Lyrebird in Hobart. Making it double thickness, meant that it was a bit more stand upish.

A party in the park is where you can keep things simple....

Morning tea, a treasure hunt, teddy bear toss, and bubbles...and of course the older kids played cricket. I strung out some longish bunting, but forgot to take pics of that!

My only regret is not hanging out any balloons....I think I was trying to make an eco statement, but really next year I am going to try and get some biodegradable ones in time!

treasure hunt

birthday cake

teddy bear toss - the best game

who's a tired little girl now?

Pop over to Kirsty's, won't you?... for other 'my creative space' posts other peeps are making!

(As I write this, I am pretty sure that my little girl has another uti, so we are dashing off to the doctor's in a few hours; more mother guilt x.)

happy birthday my little bonsai girl....

2010-11-03T14:10:00.001+11:00

you love anything tiny, and you are my special treasure...you complete our family circle, you add joy and brilliance to our lives...yelllow is your favourite colour, and that is the colour of sunshine, which is so true of your sunny disposition. You are funny, gorgeous, quirky, earthy, sometimes introspect, sometimes sensitive to others. You are growing, learning, feeling, being. You are our blessing.

Happy 3rd birthday.

I still remember the day you were born with clarity and joy.

And, yet here we are today...people have stopped asking me whether you were a premie baby or not, (you weren't, you were just little, a perfect package) and I've started wishing that time would freeze...

too cute...vintage holiday on wheels

2010-10-30T16:11:00.000+11:00

all images courtesy of old classic car forum, UK.

Hope you are having a lovely weekend!

I meant to do my work today

2010-10-28T13:36:00.000+11:00

I meant to do my work today...

But a brown bird sang in the apple tree,

And a butterfly flitted across the field,

And all the leaves were calling me.

And the wind went sighing over the land

Tossing the grasses to and fro,

And a rainbow held out its shining hand...

So what could I do but laugh and go?

Richard Legallienne

image

Just found this in my son's 'bought home from school pile'...grateful that it was there.

xo

my creative space.....a sweet light voice

2010-10-28T10:14:00.001+11:00

I just can't seem to get enough of wool felt at the moment...I have been cutting out a few circles for a Christmassy project...not sure how it's going to work just yet, but enjoying a play.
There wasn't much light when i took these shots this morning. Perhaps it matches my mood a little, as after I took ~ my sweetness and light ~ to care this morning, for the second time ever I cried on the way home.
I just want to know she is being listened to, but that's hard with other distractions around. I do know she really enjoys her time there, it's just me at the moment, feeling torn. When she is with me, most times I can give her the attention, and bend down to listen to her sweet voice. You know, really tune in. If there is ever a time I don't understand her, she just repeats herself, and i try again....sometimes over and over, until 'i get it'. She is quite articulate for a 3 year old, but you know we have those times, when she is trying out a new phrase or sentence, and she is very good at persisting (even shouting), to get me to understand. Sometimes, I'll even get right down to her level, and bend down to try and get what she is trying to tell me. It reminds me of this phrase...'Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath! (Psalm 116:2 *New Living Translation). I feel pretty awed by that.
Isn't this how our children learn to communicate, love and feel cherished, and grow healthy self esteem, in being valued and listened to?! As I'm getting older, I am valueing more to listen, rather than to talk (doesn't mean I don't always have a lot to bang on about!)
Listening to that soft, quiet voice, not always necessarily the loudest, gives way to understanding.

I am off to see what bright and lovely spaces are being made over here.
xo

walnut boats

2010-10-26T21:34:00.001+11:00

A simple toy for a day -

Ingredients: walnut shells, wool felt, toothpicks, modelling beeswax.

My kids picked these summery colours from the felt box....

Hope your week has been smooth sailing so far...

a yak on the water

2010-10-25T19:56:00.000+11:00

No, I don't mean a shaggy bovine folks! I thought I would share some pics of my hubbie's kayak fishing trip on the weekend...not cause I want to show you any gory pics of fishies...(not too good at that stuff, I'm too wussy), but because it's always looks so lovely on the water, relaxing and peaceful. I just love the idea of exploring little nooky bays, and the quiet of it. Hubbie has a Hobie fishing kayak, and loves it, it's powered more efficiently by pedal than paddle, and very stable on the water. (apart from a little tip-over last year, when he lost his fish-finder...that really was the one that got away).

This trip was at Little Swanport, on the East Coast of Tasmania...

jetty...

pelicans....

more pelicans...the best fishers

shanty on the shore...

something about this tumbled down weathered building is so serene...

pedals sans feet

And, for those who are wondering, we did have some Australian salmon patties for dinner.

vanilla snap biscuits

2010-10-21T16:35:00.000+11:00

I was asked by Susie from Flowerpress for the recipe for these delicious cookies...and thought I would share with everyone, as really, they are so very easy, and will have your kitchen smelling of vanilla. These biscuits are a favourite in our house!
Recipe is by Donna Hay (Modern Classics 2).

Vanilla Snap image by Drizzle and Dip

185g (6oz) butter
1 cup caster (superfine) sugar
1 & 1/2 ts vanilla extract
2 & 1/2 cups (all purpose) plain flour
1 egg
1 egg yolk, extra
icing (confectioner's) sugar to serve

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C (350F). Process the butter, sugar and vanilla in a food processor until smooth. Add the flour, egg and egg yolk and process again to form a smooth dough. Knead the dough lightly, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll out the dough between sheets of non-stick baking paper until 5mm (1/4 inch) thick.
Cut the dough into shapes using cookie cutters. Place on baking trays lined with non-stick baking paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Cool on wire racks. To serve, dust with icing sugar. Makes 45.

my recipe footnotes:
We don't using the baking paper when we roll, mainly because my 'helpers' like to see the dough squishing underneath as they are rolling - i just use a little flour on the pin...they do stick a little but it's not too bad.
We usually eat them 'undusted'...just as delicious.

We seem to have amassed quite a range of cookie cutters, but if you need a good supply source, these from Bisk-art are made in Australia.

happy baking
xo

my creative space - shape and colour

2010-10-21T14:19:00.000+11:00

Happy Thursday! We've been mucking around with all sorts this week...lots of time for playing at home, and baking, and sewing, and eating outside again, now that the weather's turned. It's been good.

Do hope your week has been lovely.

Head over to Kirsty's creative space, to see what other peeps have been doing.

Decorations...how do you do?

2010-10-20T13:11:00.000+11:00

There's nothing like receiving an Ezibuy Christmas catalogue that just screams 'mass manufactured in China'.
I rang Ezibuy just after I started the Dottie Angel Challenge of the Upmost Kind, last year, and asked them to stop sending me their catalogues, after all why did I need the temptation?...save paper, etc.. and now I've finished the challenge, the deliveries have recommenced (I said I would only need to cancel the subscription for 1 year), so they are now bombarding me with all the Christmas....stuff.
I'm just so over tinsel. Don't even get me started on those faux pine Christmas trees in white.
Ok, maybe, there are some things that appeal...like I just can't resist the twinkly lights. Especially the starry and snowflaky ones. I don't even mind that we don't do snow Down Under in December (except for one very freaky year about 20 years ago, when I and it settled in Hobart.)
Maybe I'm just feeling a little over stimulated by all that faux colour.
Honestly, I just don't know how I feel about baubles. It's just all too much for me, I guess I'm just a simple gal, with simple ideas about tree decorating. I have no qualms about my tree being less beautifully decorated than the Jones' next door.
I like the idea of sweet, handmade, kid made, things hanging off the branches of a tree that we plucked from the side of the road, and in turn did some good for the environment by eliminating another weed. The upside is that you get that piney resiny smell from the pine, not the plastic.

fairy folk - felted acorns

the stuff of home

2010-10-17T04:04:00.001+11:00

Moda bakeshop pillow

sorry forgot where this one came from

Yulia Brodskaya

Hope you are having a lovely weekend.

Friday at 'the hive'

2010-10-15T22:29:00.000+11:00

I headed into town this afternoon, and had a cuppa and a chat with the effervescent and energetic Kristan from the Craft Hive. I must say that place is looking specky, it's probably all those lovely vases of flowers from next door at the Flower Room, or maybe it's just the array of handmade goodies adorning the shelves...it's probably a lot to do with the craft hive queen running the show. Whatever, it has a lovely vibe.
I had a 16 flag bunting to bring to Kristan, as she ordered a custom one for the shop a while ago. (no pics -blogger is on strike)
Then, I spent an hour or so cruising around Spotlight...which actually was a pleasant trip for a change...the staff seemed friendly, and chirpier than usual, and I found what I was after!
It's going to be a cold, cold weekend, - we are expecting snow down to 400 metres tomorrow!
Have a great weekend readers!

Kokka star set for Houston

2010-10-14T13:00:00.002+11:00

Remember a while back, I posted about this?

Telling you that this was coming?....

(Ruby Star Rising Fabric, designed by Melody Miller)

All you fabric collecting aficionados, this gorgeously retro collection is coming to a stash building shop near you soon (after the Houston Quilt Show), early Summer down Under!

And, if you want to know how tough it can be, as we all sit and daydream (or maybe it's just me), about how very cool it would be to actually launch our own fabric line, have a look at this post from Melody's blog.

Moral of the story: never give up on your dreams.

These 'wet your appetite' pics, are also from Melody's blog.

I love them all, though I think the 60's vintage dishes is my fav....now, what to make?

Click here for more pics and the full story on 'the fabric'.

vintage goodies fair

2010-10-12T13:48:00.005+11:00

This is something for us Hobartians to get excited about! A vintage fair!

'Racks filled with fabulous fashion spanning over two hundred years. Boxes full of photographs of fashionably dressed men and women. Shelves bursting with crisp, starched French and Irish linen. Polished wooden cabinets full of glittering jewels. Exotic textiles from lands far beyond Australia’s shores draped across tables. Umbrella stands full of parasols, umbrellas and walking sticks. Hat stands bedecked with exotic creations from milliners’ workshops. Walls covered from top to bottom with original fashion drawings. This is what awaits you at The Way We Wear Fairs.'

Antique, Vintage and Retro Fashion, Textiles and Accessories
MASONIC HALL, 5 SANDY BAY ROAD, SANDY BAY (OPPOSITE PARK)

ADMISSION - GOLD COIN ($2).
TIMES - FRIDAY 15 OCTOBER 6PM-9PM SATURDAY 16 OCTOBER 10AM-5PM
SUNDAY 17 OCTOBER 10AM-4PM

Check out their slide show here.
Check out Fair dates for 2011, all over Australia, here.

image

According to this website, 'To look totally unique, vintage clothing is the way to go and some of the best vintage pieces can be found online at sites run by expert curators who pick through the trash to find real treasure. Wearing vintage clothing sets you apart from the crowd and it's fun to play with pieces from different eras, mixing a Victorian day dress with a hippie fur vest. When you wear vintage, you can be sure you won't look like anyone else.'

Maybe it's that, but maybe it's just that we are sick of hearing people being exploited to clothe us, and maybe we just want to lessen our ecological footprint.

Maybe it's because clothing from even as little 30 years ago, was made to last, fibre manufacturers took less shortcuts, hence finer cloth was produced to make those garments. While vintage clothing isn't necessarily cheaper, it's certain that it will never come again.

I also quite like the fact that there is an era for every body type, from the straight up and down flapper dresses from the 20's, to the cinched in waists of the 50's.

1950's sheer chiffon dress by

Posh Girl Vintage

What's the reason you like vintage?

What's your favourite vintage era?

garden party treasury

2010-10-11T17:17:00.000+11:00

oh......pretty excited that my wind wand that I posted earlier today, as been featured in an Etsy treasury.

See it very clearly here.

It's quite an earthy autumn garden party treasury....but we 'South Hemispherians' can still appreciate it, I'm sure!

xoxox
(I'm so excited!)

silk wind-wand streamer

2010-10-11T10:17:00.001+11:00

Finally!
I'm very happy to say these are now listed in the store.
It took me an unbelievably long time to get all the components together on this little project, unforeseen hiccups, and finding a really good woodturner (who would LISTEN to my stringent requirements!). But I didn't want to give up on it....and am really happy with how they have turned out. I've had them available at the markets, but only today are they on-line (I get excited about the little things, ya know!).

They sell for around $16.00 AUD, plus postage, and heavens above, I have a somewhat limited supply for the first batch, and once these babies are gone, it may be a while before I can get another batch on the brew.
So, if you want one for a Chrissy present, please don't leave it too late! That's all I'm saying...
Have a super, duper week peeps!
I'm off for a walk.
xo

Fibre burn chart

2010-10-10T21:33:00.000+11:00

You just never know when you may need this...check the fibre content of your fabric with this chart.

from the Burda Web site.

Happy (safe) burning!
xo

a mountain of festivals

2010-10-09T07:08:00.000+11:00

So, so many school fetes, a bi-ennial Wildflower show, Olliebollen festival, the barn market........even a mountain festival, all happening this weekend.
I just love October in Hobart!

Do hope you have yourselves a wonderful weekend dear readers.

no chocolate!

2010-10-08T19:47:00.000+11:00

It's Friday night, not an ordinary Friday night by any means - 'child numero uno' has gone with my huz on an overnight camping trip, I have settled 'bambino numero due' to bed, and now it's all me with a cup of tea, and a lovely catch up on some favourite blogs. How can this possibly be?! Who is responsible?! (probably me) For as I look in my 'usual spot' (the freezer), there is NO CHOCOLATE!
All I can find is a box of additive laden Cheezels. Who put those there??! That Nutella in the pantry just ain't gonna cut it either!
It's not an ordinary Friday night.

my creative space - entanglement

2010-10-07T12:10:00.001+11:00

How many hair clips do little girls lose? The answer is quite a lot!

So many in fact, that I was getting tired of replacing Beth's with lovely handmade ones, because it was starting to get expensive...the solution:

I came across this seller 'mimumee', who sells the basic alligator clips that we love...add some ribbon, a hot glue gun, and some embellishment, and we're done!

The two clips on the left were just needle felted, then I finished with some machine stitching.

The blue / cream one is simply circles of wool felt, and you can't go wrong with a pretty button.

Now we can tame that curly entanglement once more!

Do head over to Kirsty's for some lovely creativeness, won't you?

chenille

2010-10-07T02:19:00.000+11:00

Have I ever told you I am a chenille fan?
Currently I have a stack of bedspreads filling a cupboard (fabric stash takes priority over other bits!).
I love everything about those old bedspreads...the potential of that soft, cuddly, and texturally superior fabric is endless. My fav bibs I have made, have been made out of chenille. I have never been quite brave enough to make myself some chenille trousers though!
Here are some other gorgeous chenille goodies I found while scouting around....

Birdie rattle, by Aussie Etsy seller leahkl

Patchwork Rag Quilt also by leahkl

Yellow cushion by Aussie seller, Sweet Chenille on Made It.

iphone ipod case (chenille inside) by US Etsy seller, SeaSideSew

Sling pouch by Tractor Girl on Made It, from OZ.

Cupcake from Emily's Crazy Cakes

Chenille is the French word for caterpiller!

vintage LOVE bunting

2010-10-04T14:31:00.000+11:00

My current favourite is this:

I'm so happy with how it's turned out, I really want to keep it!

I do love bunting and I do LOVE vintage!

market report

2010-10-03T21:44:00.002+11:00

I'm sorry to anyone who may have popped by the market today, and couldn't find me! I've been feeling a bit under the weather lately, and I'm so grateful that my wonderful hubbie kindly offered to go in my place. Despite feeling a little guilty at 'leaving the lot' with him to sort out, he did a lovely job, even made some sales, which of course I am thrilled about. I had to wake the poor darling up even earlier today, with the first morning of daylight savings, so he missed even more of a sleep in (Sunday's are his day's, Saturday morning's at mine!)
I was a bit sad at not being able to catch up with my market comrades, but also very excited when my first 'vintage linen' bunting sold -here is a pic of what it looked like....

It's kind of feminine and floaty...and it matches the lovely weather we had today.

I just love daylight savings - it lifts my mood just thinking about it!

I plan to sew up more flags of this fabric, (fortunately I have some left) - and will pop it into the shop soon.

Hope you all have a lovely week.

Keep smiling now, won't you?

my creative space - market prep

2010-09-30T13:42:00.000+10:00

I do love it when a bit of bunting is coming together.

The upcoming market this Sunday means a dash of last minute decisions, lots of sewing, and remembering to keep up with the kids!

Hope your week is going swimmingly.

Pop over to Kootoyo Blog for lots more creativeness.

happy little vegemites - Aussie Etsy treasury

2010-09-29T21:56:00.000+10:00

Thank you to MissLizbeth for including my tepee in your Aussie kids Etsy treasury...I am honoured to be there!

Things for Kidlets from Australia

let's face it, I had to do it!

2010-09-29T18:57:00.002+10:00

Well as they say, if you can't beat 'em...I've finally got my social networking act a bit more together and am now officially 'Facebooking'. Resistance is completely futile, I knew I'd give in...so if you want to 'like me' (how I dislike the expression...cringe for asking!)...you can find my facebook page here.
Please do bear with me, I am a complete novice...while blogging feels like breathing, facebook is something I am going to learn to love.

dinner tonight - veg + lentil curry

2010-09-28T20:34:00.002+10:00

What's for dinner at your house tonight?

This is what we had. Thankfully we had a 'stocked' larder, I do wonder how I would cope without my 'convenience foods' aka, the humble tin can.

Vegetable and Lentil Curry

List of ingredients as follows:

silverbeet (or rainbow chard as we had in the patch)

sweet potato

tin of diced tomatoes

tin of organic lentils

onion

carrots

garlic

bay leaves

oriental master stock by Jillaroo Jams

oops...almost forgot....

vegetable stock

celery

curry powder

cardamom pods

oh...I also added....

a white potato

cracked black pepper

1 teaspoon of sugar

Things are getting a little tastier at my whole 'adding lentils' thing, I've discovered the humble cardamom pod does wonders to a 'standard' Keen's curry mix. The kids also love discovering them in their plate now, kind of like a little prize or jewel.

Even my hubbie likes this dish, although I still can't get him to come to grips with tofu unfortunately!

I'm also quite 'keen' to master some more vegetarian dishes to my repertoire, I'm going to experiment with a pumpkin pie next week!

my new Adirondack chair

2010-09-21T13:22:00.003+10:00

Last Saturday, we were keen, eager and early, just like about one hundred other people, (including Miriam from Nara Design, what a lovely lady) to head along to the Botanical Gardens in Hobart for their annual Spring Plant Sale.

I was jumping up and down with delight when I saw it.

My new lovely white Adirondack chair!

Isn't she lovely?!

This one was made by the 'mens shed' at Sorell...and the price was right.

I just love how you sit in these chairs, and it's really comfy with a cushion, having now tried it with and without.

This was the reason we came...a modest assortment of heirloom and modern tomato seedlings.

The best part is picking them by name, this year I chose:

Brandy Wine

Cherokee Purple

Leicester Jones

Snow White

Tasmanian Blushing Yellow