a warmth in my heart

This little space is making me very happy at the moment.My sewing desk has, of late, been in our dingy junky back room - with the roof-scratching brush/bush turkey next door making dreadful noise, and the sight of the laundry piling up at the other end of the room. Not very motivating to get any fun sewing projects done, let along work stuff.

So, because we still haven't moved house (not good house-selling economy at the moment), I keep rearranging our furniture, so that I feel like we have changed something. My desk is now in our front room, light-filled, part of the whole house (I can see the tv from my desk, work and watch Project Runway), the kids can play in the lounge-room or on the front porch, and I can still be there with them.Picked these flowers at the park yesterday. I think wisteria, but not a vine, a proper tree. Hmmmm tree wisteria? (Can't find anything by doing searches. Internet, how can you not find what I need!).And this beautiful laser-cut card arrived in the post yesterday from my dear dear friend. Thank you Stef, I love it so much. She always chooses beautiful cards. I'll have to get them out and show you, another day. Fabric cards, with texture. And of course, the words inside are always always the parts I cherish. Words written from my best friend, who knows me so well. And, who is a natural and talented and honest writer.
Something else that made me totally spark up this afternoon was :: being in the city and seeing one of my bags on the shoulder of a stranger! I remember that I sold it at a market stall I had in June. I almost put my hand out and talked to her, actually, I'm not quite sure why I didn't. But, the pleasure and joy of seeing something from me being enjoyed by someone was so so lovely.
So, hopefully I'll have some time over the next week for some of the sewing that is itching in my head. A stitch here and there is all the kids will allow me, but that's better than nothing.
I hope you are all enjoying your moments of peace and family time and preparation. Seven sleeps! I'm starting to get excited. Today I got out the CD that Tonya sent us last year for our Traditions Swap - lots of fun and dancing.

stationery for presents

A monumental birthday (50th) of a family member happened a week or so ago. Luckily we didn't see her until this weekend just gone - as Sam and I were still finishing her present on the morning of driving down to see them! Same old, hey...

Anyway, it was something that I've had in my mind for a while. Working out the logistics of it before I started cutting into the fabric and sewing. Of course there are always more things you find, as you sew and then look at the finished product, that need a bit of tweaking and fine tuning. But I know that especially for family people they a) don't mind these little "special mistakes" and b) they might actually like them as it's the real proof that I made it with my own hands especially for them.I used my beautiful hemp / organic cotton in the natural colour, and combined it with some Amy Butler greens and blues. Those soft hues being quite perfect for the recipient, I think. A simple fold-around, or wrap, that does up with buttons. With one long pocket inside, that was divided up into three smaller pockets. I finished the edges with a fabric twill tape that I sewed together to form a sort of not-bias binding.Sized just right for our own custom stationery. Some of my fabric stitched cards, as well as some A5 sized printed pale-colour designs that Sam made for the writing paper aspect of the stationery set. Little bird on a brach, and teeny tiny gumnut seeds in blues and greens.
There are a lot more of these planned in the coming weeks, for an upcoming market stall we are having. Some with embroidery, maybe some with screenprinting, and definitely some with contrasting quilting fabric panels. I think, though, that I will make them all with the hemp / organic cotton as the main body of the wrap, as I love the texture of this fabric and the depth tones in the naturalness of it.I also made this recently, a custom order of pink pink pink stationery with wrap. I fabric stitched the writing paper, which was really fun.

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Keep a look out this week, as I am going to have a de-lurking day. I want to get to know you all a little better. A special prize will be for one of you is going to be made (well, started) tonight at my fortnightly craft night!

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trials & prototypes

Hmmm. Been busy. And tired. And... usual stuff.

This week just past I had a lovely day at home, on my own, for sewing. Finishing up some long long long overdue projects, that have been sitting on my sewing table for ages and in my head for longer.

I also sewed up a prototype of a bag that we are going to be selling at our upcoming market stall (more about that a bit later). I had a bag that I liked the look of, and tried to make something similar, but also my own style. I'm quite happy with the result. As a prototype it does have a few errors, but I know what I need to fix for the proper batch of bags.

Sort of like a market tote bag, with topstitching to make a piping on the edge. It's all one piece front to back, with a gusset on each side. I want to make it out of hemp or organic cotton; and still trying to find a local (well, Australia local) supplier. And we are going to screen print Sam's designs onto them.

I have another bag idea / shape in my head, just need to find a few spare hours to turn it into a proper form. Something similar - a simple market tote, but with a different shape. You'll see it next week.

The other things that were taking up head/desk space are the things I am making for the 100th Post Giveaway. Yes, I know that most of you have probably given up on me with this one. Seeing as how it was.... months ago. I think the main issue has been that I really wanted to make something totally special and unique for each and every one of you. So many ideas formed in my head, and I wrote and drew. Yet nothing seemed quite right. It has taken me this long to finally come up with what I am happy with.

1.

2.

3. (two of these).

Also, I told myself to stop procrastinating and get it made already! I knew (hope) that you'll like whatever I send you, based on the fact that it's been made with thought and care and attention and love. I'm going to let you choose which one you each like best, colour wise. There will be a few other little goodies as well.

4.

5.

6.

So, if any of you winners are still reading my blog - please comment on which little pouch/bag you like best. And hopefully everyone will be happy. (If you really like one that someone else has picked, let me know, as I can possibly make more. I have little bits extra of most fabrics). Excuse the terrible photos, I just wanted to get them done, and kid-free time is precious.

7.

8.

9.

And finally, thank you for all your patience - not one of you asked or hassled or prompted me. That makes me feel that you do respect me, and acknowledge that I am something doing a little more than I should be. Also, I have learnt :: no giveaways unless I have something to giveaway first!!!

10. (two of these).

immense satisfaction

Firstly:: I want to say thank you to everyone for your thoughtful and kind and heartwarming comments about my Mum. When I had planned to write that post, it was going to be different - about how I felt at five years I was missing my Mum more than previous years. But what I wrote just came out of me. And, I suppose, that letting it spill out was an indication (to me) of my continued immense grief for my Mum. Even if I don't cry about her, and achingly miss her all the time. Thank you, also, for sharing your stories with me. And thanks to the dear friend who rang me up last night, such a lovely little chat.

We have all been sick for more than a week - flu and snuffy noses and not much sleeping. We are all still working through it, but night-time sleeps are getting better (and hopefully the constant train-works noise from across the street has stopped). Mishi has been having difficulty with sleeping, so her day-time naps have been minimal, if at all this week.

Despite this, I am really proud of the crafting I have achieved this week. This cushion cover was a gift for a family member's 60th Birthday a few weeks ago. I only got one finished in time to deliver to him, the other one has now been completed and will be posted this week. I really like the design that I made up for this - I came up with it while breastfeeding Mishi. Those moments can often be so reflective and I seem to think and plan so many things. The cushion doesn't have button holes, just a really big envelope back - I don't really like sewing button holes, so try to plan around that process.

Last week I made a new cushion cover for us too. I'm going to make some more in the next few weeks, as we have spare cushions with falling apart covers! I love laying my head on this cushion, on the couch. It is soft, yet has strength. But, mostly, I made it - and feel pride looking at it and using it. Simple strip piecing, with lots of over-stitching details and then a great red Indian cotton (from Ikea), as the main body.

I also made some new pyjama pants for both the kids. I know they are so easy to make, once I get down to actually sewing them. But in my house it is generally much harder to actually get to the sitting down part! Soft flannelet with little rocking horses on it - at first Ari said that it was too babyish, and he didn't want any, but on seeing Mishi's he changed his mind. Luckily I had already made them.

And while all of this is making me feel basically contented that I'm completing little things (though not enough for the market stall in less than two weeks....), the thing that is giving me the most pleasure is the fact that I am remembering how to embroider. I grew up with a Mum sewing, stitching, knitting, crocheting, potting, making bread, pies, cakes...... So, of course, I learnt all these (and more). And, of course, over the years I have neglected so many of these everyday arts.

Well, just a few nights ago I picked up an embroidery hoop and some calico and embroidery thread and..... I am totally addicted. I am taking it slowly. Relearning stitches from a great book (Creative Needlecraft - published in 1979) that my Dad pulled out of his bookshelves (which are bursting with the world). I am planning on using some small embroidered pieces on little purses that I'll be making for the market. I feel an overwhelming sense of satisfaction looking at this humble piece of work, that I have made with my own hands.

Another great thing is that both the boys really like it too. And they don't need too much assistance with it - except that with their big stitches they use thread quickly, and it needs to be replenished often. I am trying to impress upon them that it's a quiet, sitting down, relaxing kind of activity - not standing and wiggling and jumping and.......

my little corner

Finally found a bit of time to get some more tidying and organising, and prettying in my little corner, sewing space. It's half a room - the other half is kids toys, clothes, that sort of thing. (Really, it's our second bedroom, and Ari should be sleeping in here. But he doesn't want to - who'd want to move out of Mum + Dad's bed! - and I'm not ready to give up the sewing space).

The beautiful little acorn picture, and the b/w bust image are from Stefani's Blue Yonder etsy shop. I bought them ages ago, and have been waiting to have them on show.

I still have to put up another inspiration line, underneath the other one. Well, Sam put the first one up for me, so he'll probably do the next one. I'd also like to have a corkboard in there, but they seem hard to find lately!

The screen-printed yarrow fabric hanging down is from the very talented Erin of Blossom Creations. I have the yellow tea towel also, which I still have to find a spot for.

When I lived on my own - well, with flatmates or in my own room at my parent's house - I always had heaps and heaps of inspiration images up all over my walls. Just blu-tacked up. I really like doing that. Lots of fashion, and interiors, and colour ideas. Now that I own my home, and have spent hours and dollars painting it - well, I'm not quite so keen to use lots of blu-tack. (Ummm, actually I think it's Sam who spent most hours, and who isn't so keen).*

I'm really liking the way this little corner is shaping up. I have heaps of ideas and plans and projects that need starting and finishing (let's not get into my WIP list!). So, hopefully the kids and I will manage to keep it tidy enough for me to do a little sewing.

*Now I'm sounding like I can't do anything for myself. I can, it's just that - well, I'm a bit lazy and Sam's much better at it than me! Please, I do think of myself as a modern feminist - I just know my limitations.

That Denyse Schmidt Quilt-It Kit is proving to be wonderful inspiration. It was purchased on a lovely afternoon out on my own a few months ago.

weekly update :: mama

This week I conquered my fear of zips. And the result wasn't too bad, not excellent, but not terrible. I can only get better :: I have a few zips, and more than a few ideas waiting to be put into action.

I did strip piecing for this. Something that I have been slowly working on over that past few weeks. And then we did it at the workshop I went to a few weekends ago. We did it onto iron-on interfacing, which is something that I don't use normally, but I really liked it. So, I'm going to do a bit more experimenting with it.

I have been sewing strips onto paper, and loving the sound as the needle pierces through the crisp parchment. And also loving the freedom of using fabric combinations that may not necessarily work for a piece of wearable (ie a bag or similar) 'art'. Some things are so fleeting or looked at in a different way, so can be put together differently. With different views, or eyes, or ideas. One card Sam foam-core mounted for my Dad, for his birthday. Another went to Sarah as part of our Valentine's Swap.

This little purse isn't lined. I like looking inside and seeing the stitch lines through the calico. I really love that 'negative space' aspect of it. Almost like the refuse, the discarded. The messy inside stitching lines are normally hidden out of sight. The cards, also, have the stitch lines quite exposed and obvious in their insides. On show.

I have another purse all ready to be sewn together, and zip sewn on. So, maybe tomorrow - if Mishi has proper naps!

Oh, and with my new rotary blade and cutting mat these sort of projects will be even more fun. Cut lines will be straighter, which means that sewing lines will be straighter (theoretically).

gifted

Well, I managed to get all the presents finished on time! A few had their final touches added on Christmas morning :: but they were all done and wrapped, with enough time to get out the door for family lunch. Ultimately, I'm quite proud of the presents we gave this year. I'm pleased that I managed to stick to my (mostly) handmade for all the family. We did get Lego for Ari - his first 'big boy' Lego, rather than the Duplo we have and love playing with. And boxer shorts for Sam were purchased, rather than made.

Crayon Rolls for the kids :: I really like the fabric combinations for these :: the kids really liked the People Pops they found inside!

Placemats for Sam's parents :: and his brother + girlfriend

and a painting each from Ari, plus some chocolates ::

A last minute gift for my Grandma. I can't belive that I forgot to make anything for her, considering she was spending the day with us - something that doesn't usually happen. I made her a little bag / pouch thing, for her to put her magnifying glass into. She has a degenerative eye cancer, so only has periferal vision, which means she can't read menus or see people so clearly. She carries her magnifying glass with her everywhere, yet seems to always be searching for it in her bag. I used Alexander Henry birdseed in bright yellow with a red trim and pale green inside, hopefully it'll be easy to spot in her handbag.

I didn't get the apron made for Ari that I had planned. My Grandma bought a play kitchen for the kids to share. (She gave the money, so I got to choose what I wanted). I'm hoping to get a little apron made for Ari over the next week or so.

Also, no new Christmas outfits were completed. Seeing as how I never get to go clothes shopping, and have no clothes (that fit me since having babies!), I have been hoping and hoping to make some new things for myself. And I would have loved to make a new Christmas outfit for Mishi (at least), but that too wasn't achieved.

I have to stop making myself feel so bad about the lack of time, energy, motivation, space issue I have with sewing. Possibly, though, I should stop buying fabric until I start using what I have!

some sewing.....finally

It seems lately I've been showing quite a bit of my new fabric, and very little of the end results. It's happening too slowly around here, but still happening non-the-less. Last week I asked Sam's mum to take the kids for a few hours, and she obliged. Five glorious, quiet, content, productive hours! Of course, when I finally get alone time all I really want to do is sleep, or lie around listening to music or reading. And, some sewing. I sort-of almost finished the presents for all the kids for Christmas. The quilt idea totally went out the window. Not only due to time constraints but also cost of making six quilts with quality fabric and filling.

Instead I made some crayon rolls. I really quite love these. They were simple enough to sew, and small enough to be able to experiment with a few unusual fabric combinations. Also, I feel that I would be able to 'jazz them up' quite easily with a few extra adornments - for future present making. Thank you for this lovely and easy tutorial. Inspiration :: cloth.paper.string :: Myriad :: three sisters :: + many more, I can't quite find now.

More fabric arrived this week. I'm happy to say that I have cut into it already :: at 3am to be precise. This was an early morning sewing, rather than late night. (I actually went to bed at 10pm, and then woke up at 3am - ready to work. Rather than staying up late, late, late and not having any energy the next day).

So, Christmas presents are happening. I can see an easy end. Really, I actually don't have that much to do :: yet, everytime I look at the calendar I remember that I don't have much time either! We are going to my Dad's on 22nd, so things need to be finished before then. (Ummmmmm.... TWO full days only!!). My mind is becoming clearer on what I need to do, and I'm feeling more optimistic. Possibly because I have just been sewing with these glorious, new fabrics and they have sparked my imagination.

Some of the Amy Butler and Kaffe Fassett have been sewn already into placemats for Sam's parents' gift. And the possibilities of the others... arhhhhh. Most of the new fabrics are for a quilt for Ari. I haven't yet finished Mishi's, but it's very close. All I have to do is the binding. I have read and read and read the instructions in Bend-the-Rules and a few library books, yet somehow my brain can't work it out. More thinking involved for me to finish that. Any tips and help?

I have long loved Kaffe Fassett. My Mum has/had (as in they no longer belong to my Mum because she doesn't belong to this land anymore :: but they are still in the bookshelves at my parent's house) many of his books. She herself was a pretty excellent knitter and crocheter. I wish I had taken more notice and remembered now how to cast on and knit one, purl two; in through the window, running round the back, out through the back door, and off jumps Jack! And each time I see Amy Butler's newest range, I fall in love all over again.

swapping traditions

Well my Holiday Traditions Swap has arrived safe and well, with it's recipient Tonya. I had to wait until she received it for me to 'show off'. At first I was a bit scared that I wouldn't send off a good enough parcel, and then I wondered if I'd actually get it made in time to post off to USA, for it to arrive in time for Christmas. But :: it all seemed to work out, it got there in time, and more importantly I actually like it and am quite happy with it!

I sent some handmade (machine stitched - I hand stitched the ones for our tree, and they are quite wonky, plus took me ages!) stuffed felt stars, with ribbon to hang on the tree. They are quite bright colours - lovely for after Christmas possibly in a child's bedroom.

And some Steiner-inspired dolls made from fabric scraps. This is something that we used to have when we were young. I remember making beautiful white ones with my Mum and sister, and hanging them on our little tree. Or stringing them along our roof. These are really easy to make, and something you can do with children. They can be as simple or elaborate as you like. If anyone wants a basic tutorial, let me know :: I'd love to write one for you.

The recipe that I included was for some yummy biscuits that Sam's Mum often makes. They are an Italian almond biscuit - Amaretti. I made a recipe card for it - did a little styled photo-shoot, which was really fun. (Sam did the logistics of actually 'making' the recipe card, as he's the designer with the computer programs and know-how and the amazing skills and visual eye!). Of course, the biscuits weren't perfect when we baked them the day of the 'photo-shoot', but they still looked lovely and tasted delicious. I've been wanting to make some recipe cards for a while now, so this is the start - I plan on making more in the New Year.

And then I wrote a whole bit blurb about our family traditions :: past ones and new ones I want to implement. I'll tell you a bit more about it after Christmas.

What a received from Tonya was lovely and tasty. She sent me some of her Grandma's chocolate and sultana cookies - they arrived very crumbled, but so tasty. Also a fun CD of her favourite Christmas songs - we have only listened to it once, as most music has to compete with Playschool's 'The Wobbly Walk'. The Mickey Mouse decoration looks right at home on our tree, with all our red angels and stars. She also sent us a beautiful looking (I've seen photos) wreath, but customs snatched it away due to the pine cones. They have cut these off, and are now posting the wreath to us. I have optimistically high hopes of it arriving in time for Christmas!

Pink Amaretti

3 egg whites

200g / 1 cup / 7oz castor sugar

250g / 2 1/2 cups / 8oz almond meal

4 Tablespoons icing sugar

A few drops pink colouring (you can leave this out for white amaretti, or add it only half/half. This isn't in the recipe, just something that Ari + I wanted to add when we were making these).

Pre-heat oven to 160C / 325F / Gas 3

Beat egg whites in a mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add castor sugar, until thick and glossy. Fold almond meal in, by hand and 2 tablespoons of icing sugar. Add a few drops of foor colouring, until you like the intensity. Leave half the mixture white.

Using two tablespoons, form shapes like quinelles - small round shapes, almost with a swirl on top. Place on baking trays lined with non-stick baking paper. Dust with remaining icing sugar and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on try, then remove from paper and store in an airtight container. Yummo!

our little tree

This is our first Christmas tree we've had - in this house or as a family. We decided to have a real, living tree for a few reasons. It was something we did in my family, when we were children. I remember seeing it get bigger each year :: a wonderful way to notice the changing of the cycles and the growing of our lives/selves. Also, we wanted something that could be special to care for, look after, tend to. Every day it is Ari's special job to remember to water the tree. We have to clear up the dropped needles and seedpods. And then, to have this wonderful real tree in our house feels immensely special for me. Growing up in the bush we didn't have trees inside our house so much (except bonsai trees), seeing as how we lived in a very outside-in house. Nature always came in, if we wanted it to or not. And now, while we have flowers and seedpods and sticks and things, we don't often have real trees growing in our house. Sometimes we may have an orchid plant - which in a way is like a growing flower arrangement.

We choose a Daintree pine (Gymnostoma australianum). It's so pretty, with such lovely shaped seedpods (almost like many-armed star-shaped atoms) and furry little 'flowers'. The tree is almost classic Christmas tree shape. It will grow healthily and happily in a pot.

Our decorations are simple, and all handmade. Steiner-style angels, and stitched felt stars. It is my wish / aim to make something new each year to add to the tree, or collect things that are special to us. Rather than just buying a heap of plastic decorations and throwing them at the tree. It's quite an understated look. Actually, I really like it. I think this year Ari was maybe a bit too young to assist so much, or he didn't want to, so mainly Sam and I did it. We tried some lights, but they didn't really match. We do have one 'not-handmade' decoration :: this lovely little one that came from my holiday traditions swap from Tonya. (She also made us a beautiful looking wreath, which we are waiting to receive from Australian Quarantine).

if you live in brisbane :: or if not

I was really exicted when I received an email from a friend this week, about a little market happening this weekend. Not just to sort out a few Plan B ideas, but mainly to treat myself (or maybe just my eyes...) to a few presents of my own. All local artists selling :: showing off their beautiful wares. So, in keeping with buying handmade, I will be there.

Christmas Design Market :: this Sunday 25th November :: 9am - 5pm :: GOMA gallery store forecourt ::

:: Blossom Creations :: not just a great designer, Erin is environmentally conscious in all aspects of her work and production. I really respect and admire any artists for this, more so when they strive to make it a primary aspect of their business. (I met her this week, it was lovely to put a face to her blog and beautiful creations).

:: Shannon Garson :: I have coveted her amazing, intricate, delicate porcelian since I somehow happened across her blog ages ago. I am taking pocket money to spend here (I hope!).

Plus many more beautiful, talented, artist, crafty.

If you don't live in Brisbane, please visit my other local (as in, I'm there every day!) hang-outs. I've already spent my pocket (bag :: Servo paycheck) money out in the Blue Yonder. Beautiful pieces of art with stories that make sense to my life.

All of this talent - local :: global - makes me long to have more time, energy, etc, etc, etc to be focussing more on doing something of my own. Yet, I know that my baby time now is so short, and things will slip into place eventually.

finished! :: gifting

Sewing lately has been a bit too few and far between. Moments of no kids seem to be times of tiredness and guilt at not cleaning the house. I keep getting more fabric, so really must start using it. Just wanted to show a few of the projects that have been finished lately :: so I feel like I'm achieving something! And a little peek of my delicious, make-me-feel-happy swing tag that Sam designed for me. I'll have to get you a real image soon.

Apron + little tote for my Niece's birthday. Apron is made from a beautiful old dress, and some fairy fabric (maybe AH fabric?) I've had in my stash. Tote is great thick purple cotton, also from my stash and Alexander Henry 'Birdseed' in pink (which I love love love, and want to use on so many projects).

Apron + Head band, both kids versions from Bend the Rules (yes, again!). I've sewn the apron twice now, and I know next time it will be almost perfect. Also Alexander Henry 'Birdseed', in yellow with purple backing and pocket trimming. Ari choose the colours - and I love the combination. And that little head band - oooh, I am so going to be making a heap more of them in all different sizes and colours for all different people. It took me about ten minutes all up to sew, with Ari hanging off my arm. I'm going to make some with elastic for Mish as well :: will be too hard tying a ribbon on her head! They're for a little friend of his who turned three. She's a red-head, so I think the orange/yellow head band will really work well.

Kids Discovery Messenger Tote - Jumping Fish. For my nephew, whose birthday was a little while ago! I made the pattern myself :: I really like the stitching on the strap, and have been working on a few more bags with similar straps. The book is a great second-hand find :: an Indian myth / memory story written by a really excellent Indian cook-book author. This is the same fabric as my skirt :: my aunt found it second hand (she's a Queen at op-shopping), and gave it to me!

On the actual selling of my bags :: well, two have sold at the shop. Which, yes, is exciting - but I did have hopes of them all selling out - okay, not all, but a couple more than a few. Anyway, I'm taking it slowly, easing into this thing of wanting to sew and do and make and produce :: and maybe then sell.

sew slow

A few weeks ago I happened upon a flyer while at the GOMA. Someone was opening a new design shop over at Paddington. Looking for people with things to sell - designish like. Well, I emailed for more info, expecting to be told that they were full and the waiting list was so long. Yet, yet... she had space, I emailed photos, and she selected me! Okay, not me, but some of my bags that I've been sewing lately. The photos I sent were an assortment of ones I'd made for family and friends, for presents. What this meant was that I had to produce some to give her. The acceptance email she sent me said that she wanted the stuff now! To cut this story short, I spent most of last weekend sewing and sewing.I am quite a slow sewer, and was even slower doing these as I wanted to make sure they were all as neat, tidy, straight, pretty as possible. I also had to cut and iron and sew in sort of confined and not really well organised space. Wonderfully, Sam took both the kids for walks and outings. And Sylve took Ari away for a two night sleepover. He's stayed at Sylve's house before for one night maximum, but she only lives five minutes away from us. This time they were down at Anouk's house and then my Dad's house - two hours away from here, for two nights! I think we both coped really well for our first real sleep-away holiday. Hmmm, Mish also had her first real away time that weekend too.So, she liked the bags that I made and thinks they'll sell. I ended up with nine, yes only nine - not 75 (okay, she had helpers and mine are a bit more intricate and fully lined and inner-fleeced. I did actually make 11 over the weekend :: one for Sidi's birthday and one that still needs a bit of 'attention' before suitable for retail). But the kids were here at times and I did have lovely interuptions. And I also enjoyed the quiet time of only having a baby again for two days!!

Well, anyway, maybe I'll just leave you with these glamorously styled images of the bags. More details can be found here. The shop officially opens tomorrow, so I'll have to let you know how it goes.

So much other stuff has been happening lately, but I want to post about that separately. Ari turned 3 this week - I can't quite believe I'm the mum of a 3yr old kid. I'm still composing a birthday letter to him.

On a different note :: today, at the market, one of the stallholders asked how I was, what was exciting, that sort of thing. I said everyday was exciting, new, an adventure. He said that's why I had a sparkle in my eyes. I thought that was a lovely thing to say - it sparked me up a bit more.

a tale of a nap and a sleep-over

Ari had a sleep-over at Sylve + Ashey's last night, and we didn't pick him up until 5.30 this afternoon. Sam went to work today - one more of the perks of retail is working on Sundays! And Mishi had a decent sleep for an hour or so. What this means is :: I had some time all on my own at home. This is very rare for me, actually more than rare, practically extinct. I think that last time was possibly before Mish was born, or the few minutes when Sam walks to the corner store with both kids to buy milk. Believe me :: today was glorious.

I had some time to make a coffee, make bread, clean the kitchen (well, no - I didn't finish all the washing up, okay Sam I'm admitting it!). And the, I had time to photograph some of the beautiful fabrics that I recently purchased and are urging and calling me to make things with them. And of course the book that is giving me such creative inspiration. I promise I won't talk about this book all week, but it really has pushed me to do some really great sewing. A lot of the projects are simple and easy and achievable - that's what I really like about it. Things I can do, could have done without the book :: but things that I haven't done, the book has showed me the tips and simplified and prompted me and inspired me.

I finished two aprons today - well one last night and one today while Mish slept. I can't show either of them yet as they are gifts for dear sweet little girls. So, in a few weeks I'll be able to show you my handiwork. Let me just say, that I am so super-duper happy with the results. Proving to me again that I can actually sew. And that if I follow the rules from Amy - and know when to break them - then the results are better and better.

I also finally photographed the adorable clothing that a very dear and special friend posted to Mish a few weeks ago. She also sent some lovely wooden toys for Ari, but currently they are scattered throughout the house and car :: A great wooden egg shaker, a bright yellow spinning top, but unfortunately the toy drum was confiscated by customs on the trip over from the UK. The clothes are too big for Mish, which means I get to spend the next year(s) looking at them - that sop especially is so so so beautiful, almost exactly like one I want to try and make for myself.

So, this is my inspiration for today. A lot of sewing and girly fabrics. A lot of ideas and thoughts and wishes and hopes for near future plans.

An amazing more than two hour phone conversation with my big sister was a wonderful close to today. With everyone in bed in both our houses we talked about so much stuff, agreeing and wishing we lived closer so we could have conversed across a table, cups of tea in hands.

And finally, the fingernail moon we watched in the early evening sky. The fading and darkening to deep dark blue with the glowing slither of light.

Of course, a day at home all alone with my little girl was the most inspirational of all. She played happily on her own, ate lunch with me - well, spread rice all over the floor - giggled and chatted and crawled and pulled herself trying to walk. Each day I see a little more of the woman she may become, each day I feel excited about the relationship we have now and in our future. I had such a strong closeness with my Mum, and still have a deep respect and love for her, that I know good things are in store for us. Mish and me.

inspirational challenge

I've decided that I'm going to set myself a little sort of blogging challenge. What I've been thinking is that I'm going to post everyday about things that inspired me that day. Photos mainly, but also words. As I don't always carry the camera, or can't always take a picture when I see it, and then it's happened. It's sometimes a little bit hard with an eight-month old hanging off my hip - often wanting to grapple with the camera. So, regardless of any "dramas" or difficulties or hassles I encounter during my day, I'm still wanting to enjoy and take notice of and enjoy those little aspects of the day. The parts sometimes I ignore, or don't have the thought process to take time to soak up.

Today it was the wind that swept me up. We've been having such lovely breezes over the last few days, zooming through the open windows, swishing papers and such about. These sort of breezes really wake me up, energise me. Of course, if it becomes too windy then I just feel ruffled.

I took a few photos this morning of my latest projects. I've been on a bit of a sewing rush lately. Very fun, productive, creative. I've been sneaking off to the sewing table - everyone finds me of course, much like Amanda! Some bags from Amy's book, and ideas for finishing a skirt I had - cut out and sitting in one of my sewing baskets.

My finished skirt - jumping fish fabric from my Aunt A wrap-around. I love it. And, when you see a photo of me like this, remember that I'm a "Milking Mama"!

And the wind whipping through Mishy's hair. The way that the breeze made her jump and squeal with delight, and the smiles across her chubby little face. Oh, those teeth. Only two weeks ago she had a toothless grin, now almost four sharp pointy nippers. (And nippers, yes - she's learning how to use them, on me!).

I finally made a bag for myself. The way that I wanted it - pink flowers and birds. Now, back to sewing presents for other people.

Hmmmm, so.... If anyone is interested in joining me in this little challenge for the next week - of posting images or words of the things most inspirational from that day - let me know, as I'd love to see your posts and I'll link you here.

showing off

I'm so super-duper happy, and proud of these two little bags I've just posted off today. They have taken a little bit of time to actually get finished - what with all the baby::kid interruptions! I put thought into all the steps and took things slowly. I actually ironed the fabric before I started sewing, I pressed the seams in place. This is something I never do. I'm not an iron-er at all, I'll only iron my clothes if they desperately need it.

The stitches are straight. My sewing lines are straight. I normally rarely cut straight, which doesn't bode well for sewing straight. But I did this time, I did! I don't know all the technical terms for the stitches I did, but that doesn't matter. The finished products are neat, tidy, pretty....

Sam's even impressed with me. He's sort of showed them off too, and let me talk excitedly with him about how well they turned out. He's even rambled with me, and we've mulled over the possibility that I could maybe, just maybe sell some if I continue to make them as prettily / neatly.

I hope they are received happily. Made especially for the birthday's of my nephew's mum (my brother's ex) and her daughter (my nephew's half sister - who is turning one). I included this same book in the bag for her.

So, hopefully over the next bit of time I can refine the patterns I made + polish the sewing techniques to produce something that I could offer for sale. That really would be so wonderful. As, well, it would be excellent if I could try to contribute to our income while being able to spend the days with my little ones. So, what I'd like to do is make a few more, as practice and for the fun of it. If anyone out there reading this (I think there are a few, couple, one!!?? of you) likes the idea of having one of my practice bags, please comment as I'd love to give some away - possibly like the little "lingerie" purse.

small moments

A drawing of the ferris wheel we want to ride on

It's been a busy, long, fun, laughing, tired, sick, whingy week. I'll hopefully be back feeling on top of it all in the next few days. Ari has chicken pox and seems to have turned into ::the biggest whingy kid I have ever met:: (Ok, not really - but more than I've ever seen him before). At the same time Mishi has decided that she doesn't want to lie down, sit in her rocker, her high-chair, on the grass, on the rug - she just wants to be in my arms. Plus, she doesn't seem to want to sleep for longer than half an hour at a time.

::Am I being whingy now?::

In between all this we've had some marvellous, beautiful moments. After a particularly trying day, I went out for a peaceful, entertaining, adult dinner with two great friends. School friends, who are luckily still wonderful friends now. We took Mischa with us, she was on her best behaviour - cooed, smiled, drank milk, then slept! We had dinner, conversation, laughing, understanding, listening. Then we moved on to a little cafe and had tea and live music and more gentle, relaxing conversation. I don't think I've been out for dinner on my own (without Sam or Ari) in a very long time. It really is a necessary of life.

This weekend Ash was visiting with us, so Sam took the boys round the corner with their skateboards to do a bit of rolling. Ari is learning to stand on his own, and Ash is getting over his fear and doesn't lie on his tummy so much anymore! Mish and I went up after a while to watch them, and encourage. Then we kicked the ball around :: Something I don't do very often at all! All in all a beautiful, glorious day out with the boys. We vowed to do it again more regularly. Me too. Rather than sending Sam out with the boys (to give me quiet time), I really enjoyed myself too.

And then, on Sunday - Ari, Mishi and I spent a lovely few hours sitting and drawing, talking, sewing. (I'll show sewing photos soon. Have a few final touches to put on the presents that I'm making and need to post. But very happy with the results!).

There seems to be so much, and yet nothing, happening in my life. I have lots of plans happening in my mind. And a few, just a small few, I'm pushing into happening. Taking things little-by-little.

I've set up a little sewing table in the corner of Ari's play room. It's really his bedroom, but as he hasn't slept in there for months now, and I took his bed out ages ago, I finally thought about setting up a little corner for myself. I haven't had any time::energy to turn it into the inspirational, crafty corner I want to show. But, I have been using it in my few spare::quiet moments.

I'm really so super happy with the idea of having my own little spot in the house. My own corner, where I can tell the boys not to touch, and I can have my own ideas there. Living in a little two-bedroom house with four people (okay, two are young kids/babies), and a lot of stuff (read :: junk), means that none of us have our own actual space. Yes, yes. I decorate the house, luckily Sam + I have similar personalities + ideas + creative-thought processes.

So, hopefully I'll be able to continue doing a lot more sewing. Which I really love. Generally I'm quick, lazy, wanting immediate results, and I get bored with things easily (a true Gemini). But maybe, just maybe, having this little space where I don't always have to pack up every night - it might encourage and allow and force me to be more dedicated to creating.

::There'll be more catch-up tomorrow. This flu-thing has baffled the cohesion words in my brain::

self sufficiency + B frog

1:: I have dreams of changing the way we live. Of being more slow, gentle on our Earth, feeding ourselves by our own hard work and/or supporting our local farmers. Firstly, I suppose we would need to get a bigger vegetable patch - or we will starve! These lovely looking eggplant::aubergine were picked yesterday. I watched them grow and grow and ripen. And they are very beautiful - but only about 5centimetres long! And yes, only two in the whole garden. Lucky Ari doesn't like eggplant, Sam and I get one each!

My ultimate fantasy::daydream is to build our own house (ok, my Dad would be building it - but I want to design it with him), with a large garden + paddocks. To have vege patches that we can rotate and grow produce diodynamically, an orchard with citrus, apples, pears, stone fruit, herb gardens, companion planting. Some chooks, a few cows so we can have our own milk, cheese, butter, yoghurt, icecream - alright, I don't yet know how to milk a cow, but I can learn. Backing onto a forest, large fields, with a creek. Is this fantasy too much to expect? Should I give up now, and be thankful for my two eggplants and five lettuce plants?

2:: To be content with who I am right now. As in, sufficiently happy with my self. I go constantly through so many stages of contentment with myself and who I feel I am, have become, will become. Yet - still, I yearn for more than I'm giving myself currently in my day-to-day existence. I want to learn to be happy or at least content with what I am, not what I dream I am.

Also, to raise my children to be self-sufficient. I feel that this doesn't mean to the exclusion of any external help, but with the respect and thoughtfulness of what you are taking on, bringing in, giving out. That your daily living is living with thoughtfulness. That the things you do daily, momentarily, you do so with consciousness and commitment. I want for my children to be strong in their will, being, sense of self. Dedicated to being their own best friend, loving themselves. Yet, also, to being humble and giving and acknowledging you cannot actually be ::self sufficient:: on your total ownself. A community::clan can be self sufficient, yet (I believe) an individual will have a very hard time fulfilling all of their own needs for more than very basic survival.

I was talking today with some beautiful, warm hearted friends about wanting to move away from the city. To give my children something of what my parents gave me. To live with this dedication to making ourselves, our planet, our relationships fuller, stronger, brighter, healthier. We all said how we so dream::wish of living on a patch of hidden-away land, with trees, forest, vege patches, animals, sustainable living.... And (after only talking with Sam about similar ideals yesterday) we decided we will (want to try to) buy some land together and live and build a community, and raise our children together in a loving, caring, teaching, learning friendship.

Idealistic, yes... But, well, that's where most wonderful ideas start. Simply talking. And then we all spend the next few months thinking and planning. And, hopefully (why not, why couldn't it happen?), within a year we can start to put our wishes into action to fulfillment of self.

This is B Frog. Ari named it. I'm not actually sure if it's 'B' or 'Bee'. But I like the name none-the-less. A lot of the babies (dolls, teddies, etc) in our house have fairly standard names. I really prefer not naming them, but Ari is only now old enough to think of names himself - and we couldn't have no names for some babies. Bunny is a prime example - it is a bunny rug :: a blanket with a bunny's head sewn in the middle. He was given to Ari when he was a baby, so we just called it Bunny. One of the best names was for the little baby doll we gave Ari for Christmas. Ash named her Macaroni (he loves silly words), which we shorted to Roni :: quite a good name after-all.

I quite like B Frog. I made it a few days ago. Ari chose the colours :: pink back and butterfly tummy. When he first saw it, he asked why it has ears. Now he calls it pretend Bunny (arhhh, perhaps that's what the B is for). I am going to try and make a few more. Ash asked where his was today - so suppose I have to sew some more!