a magical day in the life of

2009-10-07T08:34:00.005+01:00

***catching up***

the packers are coming earlier than we thought so panic stations are on full alert....thought I would share a few photos of one of our two garage sales we had....the remainder of items went into various boot fairs and so have managed to re home lots of items...hope all is well for you guys out there and will try to keep you posted and share some of the mayhem ....tears.... trials ....and tribulations along the way.....

until next time....

2009-09-09T20:04:00.003+01:00

***on the move***

sorry people for not being around lately but so much going on that have hardly had a lot of time...and soooo much been going on...we are moving and as you can imagine that brings about a lot of work as well as changes...after 16 years living on this delightful island we have decided to head back to the land of Oz and so boxes rule the day now....anyway will get some pics up soon as I can...wherever you are hope all is well and good....till soon

so scarey.......

2009-08-29T04:16:00.004+01:00

***playing with my puppet***

2009-08-26T09:23:00.004+01:00

***grizzly man***

2009-08-07T13:36:00.007+01:00

***imagination is in the eye of the soul***

we can be who we really want to be only if we can de-clutter ourselves.....

costumes and jewels can camouflage but cannot hide what others see

origianl images from lunagirl.com but I have altered them for my artwork

take time to reflect and know that others can see you too.....

2009-08-03T10:07:00.008+01:00

***since here last***

since I was here last I have been getting creative finishing making my puppet and a paper doll....
watching the lime trees coming into blossom and smelling the divine perfume drifting on an evening breeze....
since I was here last I have had me time reading and thinking and taking photos....working and shopping and cooking
since I was here last the apricot tree has produced it's first abundant crop after being planted for 16 years.....needless to say I have been indulging
since I was here last I have enjoyed family times with daughter one....eating and chatting and sharing thoughts and plans

since I was here last I have been re evaluating my life plans my goals and my dreams....what is important and what is not
and since I was here last I have been packing up boxes with books and bedding and my favourite textiles....why? you may wonder....well I will tell you soon.....but not just yet.....not just yet....

xoxo

2009-07-14T20:12:00.004+01:00

***bastille birthday gifts***

one of which was this lens for my camera

the other was a drive out for supper

after which we walked along st. ouen's beach and saw a storm brewing

next door to here is where I chose my roberts revival radio in cream

and then I decided to play with photoshop

so there you have it a pretty chilled day for me tho I know a little sad for some....

2009-06-30T13:50:00.016+01:00

***pretty maids all in a row***

a couple of weeks ago we went down to a little cove on the island where these old maids were lined up on the quay ready and waiting for their next trip out..... they are used for towing small fishing boats down to the beach which are then launched into the sea....
they appear to posses their own personalities which inspired me to take their portraits....in fact I almost felt like I had to ask their permission first....can you imagine any passer-by over hearing me talking to a bunch of rusty old metal relics?....they would have thought me certifiable...
perhaps i am!!

2009-06-26T12:42:00.004+01:00

***bringing back Billie-Jean***

and memories of times long past....that is why I wanted to post this clip as it holds many memories for me as well as others of that I can be sure....... Micheal will be missed by millions and even tho I was never a huge fan of his I really liked a lot of his music and considered his dancing second to none....he will be remembered in whatever capacity people want to remember him......and whether good or bad...he will remain a LEGEND...

2009-06-23T13:40:00.006+01:00

***put on your red shoes***

and dance the blues.....
I just had to share these adorable shoes with you.....I saw this lady wearing them last week to a wedding and as I saw her crossing the road I took a few snaps cos I just loved them soooo much....don't you think they are really great.....can you see yourself dancing the night away in these....I can.....

2009-06-14T21:25:00.008+01:00

***the trusting eye***

and what they see....horses are really amazing..... so smart yet so humble.....so large yet gentle....free spirits yet trusting.....
I saw this beautiful bay horse grazing happily and called him over to me, a stranger, and he come across...calm and inquisitive..... 'just want to take your picture fella' I said.....we blew softly into each other nostrils...you know... as you do....and once we became acquainted I took a quick snapshot of the moment......look closely and you can see me reflected in his calm soft eye.....

2009-06-10T04:58:00.005+01:00

***the crinoline lady***

I finished this art quilt a few weeks back and thought I would show you...I love the crinoline lady and have a lot of old china with her image on it....the first pic shows the quilt after I had painted it and before adding embellishments and the rest of the images are with the final stitches and embellishments...I drew the image on calico, layered it underneath with batting and backed it with old green velvet that was stained with walnut ink...after stitching around the outline I painted several times in acrylics and finished with beads, buttons and stitching.....took quite a long time really but was quite pleased with the result...

she reminds me of Scarlett....I can just imagine her in Gone with the Wind

2009-06-08T14:39:00.002+01:00

***a gift from far away***

the other day I received this hand painted gift from Jeanette of HANDMADE who lives in Sweden....she is a lovely lass who visits my blog often and is often a source of inspiration....she loves photography as I do and is so complementary of my work....she has given such wonderful detail to the roses on this altered tin and I think she is very talented...visit her blog to see some of her amazing photos too.......so many thanks for your kind thoughts Jeanette and see you again soon.....

2009-06-06T02:55:00.003+01:00

***some people!!***

2009-05-25T13:45:00.003+01:00

***woman in art***

because I love the extraordinary I thought you might like this a too...
I viewed this on the_wild_gypsy

hope you enjoy it as well.....

2009-05-24T08:52:00.002+01:00

***old times***

just thought this photo was hilarious...my husband and a mate from years gone by...they look like mad professors...

and this one of Mish.....she was nearly three and a real brat...still is sometimes even at 26...she was sooo cute tho..

I just adore old photos and soon I am going to have to go through a trunk load as it has to be done for a very specific reason...will tell you why soon....
have a great Sunday.

2009-05-19T19:01:00.006+01:00

***LOVE***

is all we have,

the only way that

each can help the other.

Euripides

2009-05-13T04:21:00.006+01:00

***beautifully aged***

cracks, chips, flaked surfaces and broken bits!...... the general air of neglect and disarray could mean many things to many people.....for me though, I love that look of a life well lived..... a life that shows artistry, adventure, surprise, uncertainty, character and passion....a life that may appear quiet, abandoned and stationary doesn't always mean it's over......there is a future for this old boat of that I am sure.....she could once again unfurl her sails..... go with the wind to places far and wide....all that's needed is the right environment and a little T.L.C and she'll be off re-living her glory days....

a bit like me really !!!!!

2009-05-05T13:40:00.007+01:00

***goodbye old boy***

'Daniel left us last night on a plane...see his red-tail light heading for Spaaaaain....I can see Daniel waving goodbye.....Oh, we will miss Daniel......'.......
our dear friend for over 16 years passed away last night....we shall miss his huge kneading paws that always accompanied his tractor rumbling purrrrrr....his fetish for headbutting our feet whenever he wanted a rub and his mighty vocals when announcing his arrival ......his acute hearing......his ability to tackle even the largest rodent when ill......his desire to return to his old home after a 3 month trek across the island but most of all we shall miss his loyal and constant companionship....
we nursed him through three illness and a three month confinement after breaking his leg 8 years ago.....but now he is at rest alongside his half brother Aussie and their companions Tazzie the rabbit and numerous chooks........we will miss him dearly as we dearly miss them all .....
xxxx R.I.P old boy xxxxx

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2009-05-04T07:45:00.006+01:00

***spring***

my favorite time of year is well and truly over. One nest of Blackbirds has fledged and mother is sitting again on her second clutch of three blue speckled eggs. The Prunus surrounds herself in a thick carpet of pink petal confetti, the bees have given up on the Ribes and look to the Ceanothus for pollen. Our damp foggy mornings have browned the Camellia flowers into much but I really can't mind too much, as that sweet heady scent of Hyacinth still lingers in my senses whilst I shelter beneath the almost fully clothed canopy of the ancient Beech tree....

memories to cherish indeed as I sit by the fireside..... for other lands hold something different...

2009-04-28T13:42:00.004+01:00

***a little magic***

and today 'The Crystal Fairy' and I are wishing you all a magical day....cos when times are a tad tough a little magic goes a long way......

the crystal fairy found a new home in the States

reverse side of the crystal fairy

2009-04-24T09:54:00.004+01:00

***sweet things***

'lolly-lips' is a sweet gal.....she loves her lollies and the more gooey sticky and colourful the better.....

well who can blame her........

2009-04-22T12:20:00.008+01:00

***we cannot command Nature except by obeying her***

Francis Bacon...

dolphins at play and appearing so serene with their life in the water is, I think, a most magical life.....I know that a dolphin is not always so placid but to see them when they are gentle and inquisitive is really awe-inspiring...we could learn a lot from them....

I just love them whatever...they ask nothing from anyone.....just room to be!

2009-04-19T09:04:00.004+01:00

***The great French Marshall Lyautey once asked his gardener to plant a tree. The gardener objected that the tree was slow growing and would not reach maturity for 100 years. The Marshall replied, 'In that case, there is no time to lose; plant it this afternoon!' ***

-John F. Kennedy

2009-04-17T10:21:00.004+01:00

***Elfie***

Elfie is drawn with coloured pencils on a 6"x 6" canvas art board....her little Elfie image was created the night before last..it appears these days that instead of reading before switching the lights out I am compelled to draw......don't know where the inspiration comes from but I am hoping it continues.....

my thoughts are it would look better framed but will think about that another time.......

2009-04-15T21:51:00.002+01:00

***something I created earlier***

and here she is.....this is Swirl ...don't ask why I named the picture that cos I don't have the answer.....anyway she is sketched and pencil coloured on gesso covered canvas...to be honest I had done another sketch underneath but didn't like it so being the obsessive re-cycler that I am I gessod over the top and started again and have to say I am pleased with this result....

I think I am going to do a few more paintings/sketches as it is quite nice to have a break from sewing...soooo watch this space....maybe I should put this one on Etsy....what do you think??

2009-04-13T09:57:00.004+01:00

***good health***

now I not generally into making concoctions of gobbledy gook in order to improve my health, not that those who know me would agree however.....
still, I heard of this recipe that is supposed to improve all manner of things and I thought of giving it a go, and I have to say I quite enjoy the flavour....and before you think or say yuk, try it.....

Barley Water is supposed to be beneficial in these respects....

cleansing the kidneys and blood
urine infections
lowering cholesterol etc
smoothing wrinkles
and some other stuff too

just check out the ingredients first just in case you are a sensitive little soul...cos I wouldn't want you to keel over or something worse....

there are several ways to make it and some are very long winded which in my opinion is a waste of time....so all I do is as follows.....

rinse a cup of pearl barley
simmer in 3 pints of water till plump and soft...(30/40 mins)
drain
pare skins of two oranges and add to liquid
leave to cool
when cold scoop out orange skins
cut the two pared oranges into large chucks (minus pips) add to barley liquid
liquidise into thick 'good for you' gooy barley water
add honey if not sweet enough for you little tast buds

store in fridge for up to 3 days
drink up to three small glasses per day

biggest issue is what to do with all this cooked barley.......
add to soups...(spicy lentil and barley is yum)
barley custard dessert...(will try to think of how to make that)
barley pudding (instead of rice)
sprinkle on morning cereals
stick it into next years Christmas Crackers...(do that and you are crackers!)
feed it to the birds
feed it to the chooks
feed it to the dog.....(well I'm assuming a little in his meat can't harm)
put it on a 747 and send it to Overseas Aid

other than that I will leave it to your imagination, and please let me know your ideas of disposing of the excess....WITHOUT putting it in the bin...tut tut....

2009-04-12T11:58:00.006+01:00

***the little things***

in life can mean a lot ....my sweet dear god-daughter delivered this delightful basket of goodies for Easter.....she baked the fairy cakes all by herself and made the card....lovely thoughts made all the more special because she had created it all with her own fair hands....ahhhhh!!!!!
don't you just love kids......

2009-04-08T20:45:00.007+01:00

***play 'n' manipulation***

yes, I have been at it again....messing around with my photos....the background is quite obviously our local church and the....wwwooooooo.....ghostly figure is actually a photo of the shadow of a resin statue that stands on my kitchen window sill...so using layers I thought of conjuring this scene which ought to be geared more to Halloween...however I will try to think of something for Easter....if I have time...

2009-03-30T14:47:00.021+01:00

***secrets 'n' treasures***

it's amazing what one can do with just a few scraps of fabric and a little imagination....

gather a few of your favourite designs cut different sized oblongs and sew onto pre made pillow thereby creating little pockets and hideaway places for little people to stash their little treasures...

great fun to make and to play with...I made this for a very special little persons birthday and hope she will have years of fun squirreling away her little secrets....

2009-03-27T13:00:00.006Z

***nature thrives on patience: man on impatience***

Paul Boese

so as spring gathers pace I admire natures burst of activity as she delights my senses with this apricot tree blossom, the fruits somehow fail to materialise without the heat of an extremely hot summer. I shall wait in hope however, for my patience may be well rewarded....

2009-03-20T10:23:00.004Z

***Deep in their roots, All flowers keep the light***

Theodore Santayana

when the sun shines it makes the world seem brighter ....one's worries lighter.......helps to gather the strength to replenish ones energy in readiness for any battles ahead........

2009-03-16T04:13:00.007Z

***another movie***

that may or may not interest you....and I was surprised at how informative this movie was and not quite what I expected...it gave a clear message into this phenomenal appetite for fast food...I could clearly see and understand why obesity, ill health etc could be linked to our nations' desire for such appetite indulgences.....if there is so much work and campaigns directed on anti-smoking, alcohol and drug issues then why can't the governments address this kind of mass food production.....and consumption .......Oh, yea I forgot...coppers in the coffers might have something to do with it....now I'm not really one for saying what others should do....but there is a clear message here that involves an industry that does us humans and livestock no favours what so ever ....I was surprised also to see such famous actors taking part...i.e Bruce Willis...Ethan Hawk...Chris Kristofferson...Patricia Arquette and Greg Kinnear.....some played small parts and I am still not sure what their stance is on the issue...did they do the film because they don't agree with ethics of the industry? or was it simply another film to be seen in .....whatever their reasons it gave me 'food for thought' ...no pun intended of course....
I must warn you though...it is pretty graphic towards the end but I think however, if some of us have pets and eat fast foods then burying one's head in the sand and being unaware of our actions will not alleviate the issues involved with such mass production....
if you do get to watch it or have seen it.......please let me know what your thoughts about the movie and the issues ........

Fast Food Nation

2009-03-06T15:12:00.005Z

***I am a part of all that I have met...***

Alfred, lord Tennyson

another art-ography photo....this is of a beech before it stars to bud...the shot was taken during the day and I messed about with in Paint Shop Pro using layers and effects....quite like it really....

2009-02-25T05:01:00.008Z

***genius ideas***

now.....you have just got to admit this idea is simply brilliant....I would really like one of these book nests...well actually a couple or more scattered around the place would be ideal...amazes me how people come up with the most simple of ideas yet these makes make all the difference with how one looks after things...

5 ***** Stars I think.......

just thought you could add it to your stocking list......

2009-02-23T11:55:00.009Z

***the ultimate chocolate cake***

made with the ultimate cake mixer....I am so proud and lucky to have this wonderful Kitchen Aid Mixer....it is in my opinion just the best and I only wish I could and should make more use of it....All my family clubbed together and bought this for my birthday a few months back...

but there was a real downside to getting this.....WHAT colour should I choose.....it became quite ridiculous in the end as it took months for me to decide and as I was on a time limit as the special offers at that time were nearly over I really needed to galvanize myself....I would have really liked it in the Pistachio but unfortunately the UK didn't import that colour so I chose the red instead...and I am really pleased with it....

and so for Baby Girl's 29 Th Birthday I made her this Ultimate Chocolate Cake....and I have to tell you it was divine...I have the ever increasing waistline to prove it too.....

and the best thing about it is it keeps in the fridge for a few days and after that if a little dry just a quick Zap in the microwave and it goes like a steam pudding...divine.....

2009-02-16T03:44:00.007Z

***layered again***

playing with layers has been fun...believe it or not the house and tractors are close to the beach and the original photo was taken from across the bay....the tree is in the garden and has been super imposed on top of the I st....can you see the ghostly children????...are they really part of the photos ????

you decide......

2009-02-15T12:58:00.007Z

***a flag or two***

~

Old Glory

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands,one Nation under God,Indivisible, with liberty and Justice for all.

The Union Jack

White - peace and honesty
Red - hardiness, bravery, strength & valour
Blue - vigilance, truth and loyalty, perseverance & justice

I made these painted quilt flags just because I felt like it.....the American one is double- sided calico and the British one is from two layers of muslin.....they are painted in acrylic paints and waxed....all rather fun really and will be for sale should anyone feel so inclined to have one.....

2009-02-12T04:45:00.009Z

***going with the flo***

It has been a long time since being here and I really have no excuses other than felt like taking time out....many things have been going on since Christmas and it has taken awhile to adjust to the changes....my youngest has decided to return to Australia which has brought both sadness and happiness...happy for her but not for myself...am missing her desperately but am glad she is doing what she has worked so hard to do......other changes as well...especially with myself....getting older for one and getting used to myself all over again...I never realised that I actually had adjust to being a teenager, then a wife and mother and am now learning to adjust to being middle aged and all that goes with it.....will it be fun...enlightening...annoying.....I know it is emotional but hey we do it at some time or another.....

anyway I have been sewing and have been playing at Art-Ography (terminology) by Chrysti so hopefully I will be a good little Vegemite and keep posting my creations.....

this is a digitally altered photo of one of our Mortello Towers that we have around the coastline of Jersey ...enjoy......

2008-12-30T14:51:00.010Z

***avin' a wee-long break***

soooooo not sure how long I will beeeeeeee.......lots been going on....hope you ALL had a really good Christmas......back anytime from now!!!!!!!!

2008-12-19T04:55:00.004Z

***just stuff***

just been so busy like everyone else .....however thought I would just show I was still around...for now....

2008-12-08T04:11:00.004Z

***light and shadow***

2008-12-03T05:54:00.009Z

***Images of Autumn 2***

It was one of those perfect English autumnal days

which occur more frequently in memory than in life.

~P.D. James

Goodbyes are not forever
Goodbyes are not the end
they simply mean I'll miss you
Until we meet again

Author Unknown

No shade, no shine, no butterflies, no bees,No fruits, no flowers, no leaves, no birds - November!~Thomas Hood, "No!"

2008-11-24T11:48:00.006Z

***Every one is a moon,

and has a dark side which he never shows to anybody.***

Mark Twain

2008-11-23T06:11:00.007Z

***patterns of life***

2008-11-12T03:51:00.008Z

***using textures or filters***

not really sure which is which in photography...the original photo I layered with a photo of a magnifying glass and layered it in Photo shop....quite vintage again....I like to use my images if I can instead of using other peoples creation and there is so much to learn with Photo shop...try one thing and many more options jump out to take up more of ones time...still it is 4'0clock in the morning and I have nother better to do than sleep!!!!!

2008-11-10T13:43:00.012Z

***a vintage bridesmaid and her friend***

I have been playing around with the original modern photo and turning it into something vintage.....a rather rewarding project I'll hope you agree....this photo was taken by a friend of the girls on a coastal golf course..... loving the composition I really wanted to give it a little more character....the sky that day was dramatic as was the sea and the girls...as they do... where mucking around having fun....anyway this is the result and I think it looks really good...almost a 60's or 70's photo lookalike....

2008-11-04T03:33:00.006Z

***a night time walkabout***

sometimes it happens that someones selfishness can, on occasion, bring about an unexpected pleasure.....cuddling into my duvet this night....full of cold and feeling gross, I saw the big spotlight at the hall across the road had been left on.....thinking that it would be turned off later, I dozed off thinking nothing more.....

until, that is.....and if like me you need utter blackness in order to sleep...the brightness eventually penetrated some deep recess somewhere in my head and back into the world of the semi-awake I became.....being 'not amused' would be an understatement, however we are privy to having the keys to the hall and donning p.j's, dressing gown and big flowery overcoat I trudged through the semi-blackness to extinguish offending 'night pollution'....

deed done, I realised that I could see a clear night sky ...the first in weeks.....full to bursting of stars...hundreds of them...well more like thousands but you get the picture....it was really beautiful to see so many and there I stood in the middle of the netball court, at 2.am, gazing at the heavens...the bonus was witnessing two shooting stars whizzing across into oblivion......

I hope no one saw me, especially our Rector... especially as I decided to walk past our cottage and onto the rectory front oval for another perspective....the oval is next to the cemetery in front of the old church.....imagine in your minds eye....dark starry night....dishevelled being in partially covered white gown wandering across wet grass...... conjures up all sorts doesn't it....

anyway...I didn't have my camera and I doubt it would have been strong enough to pick out the stars so I made this picture instead....happy gazing !!!!

2008-11-01T11:10:00.004Z

***hallo-elf***

this is my tiny contribution to Halloween....not much I know but the recipes sound good ...wonder if I should cook them up!!!!....have a good weekend....don't let the goulies bite.... hhheeeeeee

I shan't save you any of my spiders leg soup or cockroach crunchies when you come calling .. ...tho my grated rat-tail tart topped with roasted cat claws ought to suffice if you dooooo...hhheeee

2008-10-31T14:26:00.004Z

***being creative***

I have finished this collage of my 'girl and the unicorn' that I've been working on for a few weeks....it is an original piece of art tho I did get the idea of using paper for clothing from a Fanciful Twist.....the drawing of the horse and girl are my own work and the whole piece has been coated in beeswax......now the thing is should I put it on E-Bay....Do you think it would sell?

your honest opinions please I don't mind any criticism whatsoever....if I don't get honest opinions I will never know now will I? so what say YOU?

2008-10-28T12:07:00.013Z

***faces I love or are fascinated by***

faces tell a story....faces say how they feel...each wrinkle, smile, frown, glint of eye......position of eyebrow all say something to the observer.....most things in our environment have a face of sorts all we need do is look upon things with open eyes and see what is on offer....

faces of the two I love

carved with love from granite hundreds of years ago

altered photo of mother I love (moi in the background)

face of a cobweb

2008-10-26T06:01:00.004Z

***being vintage***

vintage photos and artwork are one of my passions.....I adore the colours and textures and the evocative feeling they unfold whenever I drool over them.....great reminders of bygone times...times that where good and not so good...but to be appreciated nonetheless....enjoy! Courtesy of

www.art-e-zine.co.uk/vintageresources.html

2008-10-22T05:58:00.033+01:00

***a walk on the wild side***

2008-10-17T14:17:00.018+01:00

***imagination***

running wild......imagination running wild,
thoughts and views, altered , free....
creativity enhanced by being just me,
testing themes, producing dreams,
painting hope in things I see,

making sense of how things are,
mean very little
much prefer being bazaar.....

2008-10-15T12:20:00.018+01:00

***same as yesterday but different***

I wonder if my husband will sack me as his wife/housewife/should be at work today wife.....I thought I would spend just a few minuets/hours trying to do a burnt edge on these photos just for something else to not waste my time on and the clock has ticked and ticked and ticked.....

once that first mouse click hits the brain cells it seems there is nothing for it but to keep on clicking away until the ears say shut up or the eyes glaze over in blurred goggled fashion.....or until of course I feel that I have achieved something resembling worthwhile.....do I feel guilty? ......Yes....should I be doing something more constructive? ......Yes.....should I be going out to put a crust on the table?....Yes.....should I be trying to make a 'Gingerbread' apple cake?....Yes.....(yesterdays one collapsed into a flat mud pie)....

Do I REALLY care.....NO!!!!!!!.......

2008-10-14T15:09:00.006+01:00

***what do you love today?***

a couple of things around my home that I really like....old books, a vintage Terry's chocolate box full of ribbons, a vintage water jug and a tapestry.....so whats your favourite for today.....

2008-10-13T06:01:00.007+01:00

***two more***

just the last of my harvest collages....I wanted to put them up because it took awhile to do the collage and after taking all those photos it seems a shame not to share them....I have been fairly busy this weekend, spending far to much time on my art programs, but hey being the creative soul that I am I can't help it....anyway it's cheaper than going up the pub our out to eat. Hope you people have had a good weekend, the weather has been kind to many of us, lovely to see the sun and won't spoil it by saying it showed rather late in the day.....ummmm I mean in the year... youngest has been quite unwell with fluey bug..... oldest is chillin' and hubby has been in better spirits of late.....his health has been returning a little.....must be all this good food we have been so lucky to have had from natures harvest......

2008-10-12T01:13:00.005+01:00

***achieving this***

I did it .....I did it.....I am jumping up and down....well not really cos if I were I would not be able to type would I......anyway Yes I know the background is very busy ....tooooo busy ....but it was the trying that is the most important for now....I will change it and make something else up but for now I feel pretty chuffed that made and managed to get it up with a lot of manipulation....don't ask how cos I couldn't even begin to explain.....anyway....I am oft to bed and I shall be patting myself on the back until I fall asleep.......

2008-10-09T14:17:00.007+01:00

***images of harvest2***

The feast is such as earth, the general mother,

Pours from her fairest bosom, when she smiles, In the embrace of autumn.

- Percy Bysshe Shelley

I will be always amazed at the array of plants and produce the Earth gives us.....I think it is soooo clever....humans are clever too but not as clever as this Planet Earth we call home.....

2008-10-08T04:56:00.008+01:00

***images of harvest***

While the earth remainth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.- Bible Genesis 22

it is that time of year again when we celebrate and give thanks for the wonderful gift of food and all manner of things....we are so lucky in our part of the world to be able to have so much when others have so little....even people around us that we might not know of who may be less fortunate....

to be be able to go to the store and choose from the wondrous array of foods and other amenities available is indeed a privilege and I am always thankful because I know that there are so many out there who cannot.......

harvest images in our church

'With them the Seed of Wisdom did I sow,

And the mine own hand wrought to make it grow;

And this was all the Harvest that I reap'd-'

I came like water, and like wind I go.'- Edward Fitzgerald 1809-1883

2008-10-07T03:56:00.008+01:00

***making do with scraps***

most of us have heard the expression 'waste not, want not' and I for one have always believed it to be true....so I have made this display of scraps just for a bit of fun and just to get me into a little more sewing....have been neglecting that part of my creativity of late.....the colours are warming which is great considering the rubbish winds and rain of late....well not that they are rubbish really cos I kinda love it....but the elements have certainly caused some devastation around these parts......

hope you all had a great weekend......I had a migraine yesterday which is pretty rubbish too....

2008-09-30T13:00:00.003+01:00

***doodleing***

2008-09-28T07:33:00.010+01:00

***you are the sunshine of my life***

I call the sunflower my 'happy plant' because they always make me smile....I adore the majesty of them....seeing fields and fields of them growing in France is quite amazing...and it really fascinates me when they all turn around their faces to follow the sun...clever really..

this plant is about 10 ft high...you can see by the angle of the photo that I was on tiptoe...trying very hard to fight camera shake as I took the shot...not a bad effort for freehand ehh! it was taken about 11.30 am facing the west so the sun was behind me (obviously)..... I just loved the contrast in colour of flower and sky...so stark yet pretty...what say you?

Do you see the moon?

2008-09-25T17:22:00.005+01:00

***Finally losing the plot***

okay....it really is okay to feel sorry for me...I think I have finally done it...lost the plot good and proper.....

well 'mr. lost the plot' has said I have, so it must be true....

anyway...one can't help what comes from one can one....phewwww lotsa ones in that sentence...

as you can see have been messing again and I promise this was created without any strange substances in my diet....unless of course eating too much cheese has had something to do with it...hang on...cheese!! mmmm...that gives me an idea.....

2008-09-24T15:35:00.006+01:00

***digital art***

I have been all morning creating some digital art using paint shop pro.....wonder how many different things you are able to see.....

the big sunflower is one I grew and has just been attacked by a load of finches....can you see the bee...it really is part of the photo and the swan ....well he was from a previous photo as some of you may know....anyway just thought I would share it and I am going to try hard to learn some more things...

2008-09-22T04:44:00.006+01:00

***the acrobat***

a very sparkly sea

this months full moon

waiting for a loved one

what it is to be a lily

2008-09-16T17:23:00.008+01:00

***whats the time Mr Wolf****

it's dinner time is what time it is.....

although to be fair this dinner is old ...well a few days old....I mean the photos of it are old....anyway it looks so nice I thought I would like to eat it ......again.....but I can't...cos it's finished ...eaten up ....caput....

Vegetarian spaghetti bolognese.....topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese....it really is lovely...trust me......you don't need meat.....looks like it, but it isn't trust me.....I wish I could send you a sample.....

I do eat fish and free range chook though ....just not meaty meat....well anyway.....I like this kinda food...yummmmm

2008-09-13T16:29:00.009+01:00

***where is the mood in the groove***

thats if there is one and I am being really honest here....I have not felt like posting...saying ...comunication....verbalising....anything....maybe I am S.A.D in both contexts....no sun and just low....a low-glow......terrible to feel so unmotivated...perhaps it's menopausal....Oh my god...not that.... only older people have that....Ahhh yeah! that's right I am older....tell you guys something....it is true....the body does change and it is shitty.....such a contrast...a contrast in feelings from a few years back... contrast in body...in state of mind...in outlook....in strength....my bones ache...my muscles are sore.....Oh shut up me...get on with it....yes I will....hope to feel better in a month or two or three or five or in a decade.....!!!!!

contrasts are everywhere.......between trees and sky and wood and coloured wires......well you gotta find it elsewhere tooooo.....

2008-09-07T11:21:00.003+01:00

*** a little more creativity***

well...if one can all making a crazy Halloween quilt banner being creative....I have been working on this for a few weeks on and off....and I actually don't like it....but....and I say 'but' because it might make it more interesting....if I don't like it then it may come across as being horrible and that after all is what Halloween is all about...in a roundabout way...if you get my drift....

anyway....it has taken a lot longer to make than I thought and I was trying some new ideas..for me that is ....and well.... this is part of the result...will of course want to get rid of it as I do with most of the stuff I make........

soooo.....what do you think.......

toodleooooo

2008-09-03T11:11:00.007+01:00

***white swan slowly gliding by***

in a graceful manner......
pure and white
sleek and strong

enjoying what's left of summer.....

I wanted to get really close to this big guy, not realising the wife was behind the reeds with their cygnets....to be fair he was pretty patient with me before deciding to have a hissy fit....
in my panic to beat a hasty retreat to the car unbeknown to me my Ralph Loren sunnys fell from my lap and twas on the drive a few minutes later I realised I no longer had them....
a quick spin a round, back to the photo shoot on the golf course and lo and behold no sunnies.... and no swan.....thogh in the distance there were a few gentlemen putting away ....
returning to the car disheartened and given up all hope of ever seeing them again....one of the players shouted across....
'are you looking for something'
'yes' I replied
'what?' he shouted back
'my pink sunnys'
'what these ones,' he yelled, putting them on his head.
'Yes' I screeched
'what will give me if I hand them back'
'A big fat kiss' I replied and ran over to him as he ran across to me where I plastered a big fat kiss on this strangers cheek....
one other gentleman turned from his buggy and yelled across at us
'we all found them, you know!'
'well get a kiss from this guy then,' I shouted back....I wasn't up for walking away up the golf course to give out more kisses....
'Not many honest people around,' he said, as he handed the sunnies over to a very happy and thankful person....
'too right.' I said

and he was right of course.....I hope he won his round of golf.....

and I wonder if daddy swan realised all the fuss that had been caused for just a few photos......

2008-08-31T08:14:00.008+01:00

***reminiscing the past***

I have always maintained I was born too late....I was a youngster during the late sixties and it was more interesting time for my then young parents than for me....my perfect era would have been the fifties.....how could one not adore those big faffy skirts, booby socks, the fancy cars, the colours...aaaahhh all those fab pastel colours and not forgetting the music....why I feel exhausted these days after bopping to just a few songs I don't know...well maybe age and being unfit may contribute a little....

....I have on occasion tried to dress in the fifties style or similar as an ever day occurrence but my line of work makes the logistics of wearing those clothes and keeping immaculate pretty imposable....and of course the tight waist of some of the dresses would sever me in half as soon as I started work with my forks and trowels..... my waist isn't what it used to be...grrrrr

never mind...I will just to have to pretend I am Sandra Dee because at the very least I have still got my Danny.......

2008-08-28T10:38:00.008+01:00

***shared company***

I promise not to be obsessed with food and cakes.....it was hubby's birthday yesterday and any excuse to get the family together to share some nosh and have a good laugh is okay by me....

and we all did indeed have a good laugh....especially over Mich's versions of some of the characters in Prison Break....why she adores 'teabag' beats me because personally I cannot stand him....and Micheal is really winding me up....

Hales was winding Mich up over Mich's fear of the film The Exorcist and Mich relaying her story of looking at the film posters she had in the garage and her then boyfriend, whom was outside, knocked at the window....we were then all in hysterics as we imagined in our mind's eye the cowering figure of Mich in one corner of the garage and the said posters being thrown across to the the other side.....well I did tell her not too go see that film!

and of course the obligatory cake that Hales brought was divine...lots of sugar....just right on a full stomach right before bed....

and to top it all off.....some more sugar...well healthy sugar in the form of cream ...yogurt and raspberries picked from my bosses garden earlier that morning.......
a good laugh ...good company and good food with those one loves........what better way to spend a Wednesday evening.....

toodleooooooo

2008-08-24T10:46:00.004+01:00

***the British obsession with the weather***

hardly surprising we Brits bang on about the weather....this is because we don't have any decent weather like some of you lucky blogger people out there....we have just one kind of weather.....drizzle or rain...well to be fair I shouldn't be too negative we do sometimes have sunny drizzle or rain....misty drizzle or rain.....drizzly drizzle...rainy rain...warm drizzle or rain...cold drizzle or rain...day time drizzle or rain...night time drizzle or rain....wet drizzle ...dry drizzle....

anyway you get the drift!!! (of drizzle) so what else is one to do but just take a few snaps

this is the Amethyst embellishment that I need to sew back onto the bodice of Haley's wedding dress...had to come of for dry cleaning....

a cider in the pub for Scampi and Chips

Mich... always has to have the bangles.....

I just love the far-away look.....thinking of her travels most likely....

and the love the colours in her dress....very pretty and vibrant....

anyway...hope you are all having a warm and sunny weekend...if not enjoy the drizzle.....

toodleoooooo.....

2008-08-19T06:19:00.004+01:00

***small mercies***

computers have a mind of their own....I am convinced of that now.....no matter how we like to think we are in control, give computers an inch and they take the lot....and that is what happened on Sunday....hubby said he was going to de-fragment the hard disc whilst we were out.....I thought mmmmm .....should I back up my photos as the last time I did it was in May....however, we were in a hurry as we had to meet the girls for lunch and as they say 'sods law' it was the very time that all my photos and artwork stored since May has been deleted....eaten.... caput....I mean who would have thought that having two folders....one inside the other with the same file name would give a machine the go ahead to delete the inside folder....with EVERYTHING in it.......well I had to admit to being rather tearful.....slightly stressed and downright bloody angry.....

for a moment I thought that the files had just been moved but the more we searched the more realisation dawned loud and clear that a machine had, once again taken control.....so once again....I must learn to back up my work more frequently.....

on the plus side the wedding photos were backed so I guess I should be grateful for small mercies......

the Thai lunch was, of course delicious..........

somehow that didn't help very much.....

toodleoooooo..........

2008-08-14T13:39:00.003+01:00

***pussy cat...pussy cat***

where have you been.....

and what mischief have you been up too.....

ummmmmmmm.........

actually.......I don't think I want to know........

toodleoooo....

2008-08-12T16:31:00.006+01:00

***random images***

for a random mind at a random time.......can't really explain what is going on in my head at the moment ....just lotsa of stuff going around and around....I had the loveliest time whilst I was away with my folks...just chilled and went along with the flow....conversations were great..... doing stuff was great.....meeting extended family and people was great....and as you know have been dog-sitting and that was great....tried doing silly photos and they were!!!! ummm (greatish!!!)

I have to admit to being very fragmented at the moment and so posting will seem daft....however I have to try otherwise I will never keep it up and anyway practising can only be an improvement....right!!!!!....

lilies my dad brought when he met me....

sharing an 88Th birthday with the extended family

burberry socks look cool on an older dude..right!

and one has to indulge in a glass of sparkly no matter the time or place when one is chilling!!

toodleooo........

2008-08-08T06:00:00.003+01:00

***being home and away and away again***

playing Scrabble on cloudy rainy days and catching up with my relatives folks was really nice.....i am now home, but not for long....will be sleeping over at my bosses house to do the dog-sitting job...looking after a very bossy golden retriever and four mad cats......will update in the next few hours when I upload the away photos....

toodleoooooo...for now!!!

2008-07-31T15:08:00.015+01:00

***having time out***

on my away break....so will be absent
for about 6 days......and whilst I am whiling my time away I shall be reading one of my favourite magazines...this is the third

Artful Blogging

out and I highly recommend you get a copy if you are into blogging....
well if you are looking at my blog
then you must be into checking out
what others have to say and what
they do on their blogs...
this mag is so inspiring and you get

the addresses of the blogs featured...

the photos are divine and show.....

what people create through art,

fabric or photography...
it is truly wonderful..
I will be taking my copy away with me

see you when I get back....hey tell me which is your favourite blog featured in this edition if you are lucky enough to have yours already....

yikes...the autumn one is out now
well if I never hear from any of
you again then I'll know what
you are doing....

tooodleooooooo............

2008-07-30T08:17:00.004+01:00

***Mrs solitary***

and feeling quite happy with the quietness that surrounded me yesterday at work....sometimes I wonder if it's healthy to work on ones own and not interact much with a lot of people but I quite like that.....just me and nature.....it was only as I was walking home from work that I realised how silent I am sometimes....listening to the birds, the wind, the rustling of leaves, hearing movements in the undergrowth and wondering what is scuttling about, all makes for 'me' time...it is an odd sensation realising that one has not spoken for several hours....but only when I think about it do I know that I haven't...still it must be good for the soul....have a lovely day, I am off for another bout of solitary quietness......

toodleoooooo.....

2008-07-24T04:45:00.010+01:00

***the wheels of my mind ***

go around and around...

thinking
shifting
creating
absorbing
directing
gearing
subjecting
assessing
inventing
procrastinating
cogitating
infiltrating
digestin
coagulating

articulating

immigrating
formulating
meandering

objecting

accepting
and anything else it can come up with....

toodleooooooooo......

2008-07-23T15:00:00.006+01:00

***patience***

and trying very hard to keep it.....except I am starting to lose it...a little bit.... due to stupid comments that certain people are putting up from gambling promotion sites....now I know I can moderate the comments but thought it nice for you people just to put down what you want to say without having to enter all the xwzz's....however, I can see why lots of you have the moderate comments on and may follow in your wise footsteps if this continues...shame some people out there are so inconsiderate don't you think.?...

anyway enough whinging....I hope the sun has been shining for you all...it is a truly beautiful hot day and I should be out doing the gardening but decided instead to do some digital art and so here is an example of just that....quite fun to create but not sure whether I like this kind of creativity or not....mind you anything is better than nothing...gotta keep the old brain active or it may seize up ./.../////....

toodleooooo........

2008-07-22T08:03:00.006+01:00

***Blogging***

or should I say lack of blogging....I don't know about you people but I spend so much time looking and checking out my favourite blogs that I seem to be neglecting my own....very naughty I know, but I guess we all go through that phase....some people just churn stuff out every day...they put up heaps of photos and still have time to write all sorts of info...me ....well I think about it, then, seeing how interesting other people are, makes me think that no one would have any interest in what I have to say anyhow.....I could talk about the weather ....the planet....the economic situation....but ...hey you people converse on those subjects a lot more eloquently ( big word for this time in the morning) than me....plus my typing skills are a lot to be desired....a snail could back track faster than my word count...

I get distracted by the birds feeder...the pheasant strutting in the orchard ...e-bay-...house hunting in Queensland (via realestate.com...) Oh and playing Scrabble on face book....now there's a place to let time slip by....Tho i adore Scrabble...and it does make me use my brain....I think...Over the last couple of days I have been making a little fabric picture...'the woodland fairy dress'...will show a photo of it up later....when I can pull myself away from Scrabulous.....

toodleoooooo....

2008-07-14T07:57:00.007+01:00

***50***

and that is my age now....and you know what I don't even mind.....my baby shares the same Day and is 26 and we both had a ball....it was a beautiful hot day...we didn't plan too much....I wanted to be a little self indulgent....so I put up pink and white balloons...we had a cake....a few friends and family popping in through the day...nothing too planned....just as well since I fell backwards of a chair when to trying to put up a flag banner...it was a foldout one which decided to ...fold up ...whilst I was perched on top , balancing precariously....backs of my legs are well bruised..ribs hurt, aching neck bit no broken bones....lucky a!!!!

some flowers and special balloons as pressies and surprise fireworks in the evening....

...made a fab veggie taco mix and lots nibbles....a little to much bubbly but hey....what does one expect!!!

the cake was delicious ...thick rich dense chocolate...just how we like it........Mich needs money for her trip...so I put money notes into all kinds of food containers...she is just pulling out a slimy banana (note attached) from a tomatoe puree pack ...other notes I inserted into pasta rings and peanut shells...all wrapped beautifully in flowery paper to hide the various boxes...i.e. oxo....flour etc...anyway was fun...her mate said we were freaks but I don't care....so what it like being 50....no different to being 49....at least I didn't fall off the chair at 50....but hey, there's a whole year to try that one!

toodleoooo......

2008-07-13T04:43:00.005+01:00

***hand crafts***

these little hand crafted stools were in a charity shop and my mother in law bought them for her grandson.....he's 40.....goes to show the child in us never fades away...

lady bird....

....adam ant

busy bee.......

have a good weekend.....

toodleoooo....

2008-07-08T15:51:00.004+01:00

***snaps for snaps sake***

.........big wheel at the harbour....tho who really wants to look out over St Helier beats me...

......this little guy decided to go grow a flower....it only lasted two days ....bless it...

...sweet peas that I grew at my work.....

...thousands of them......

toodleoooooo........

2008-07-01T06:24:00.002+01:00

***earth wind and sky***

am home now after having a super few days away...have taken a few pics tho not sure what will be any good...will sort things out as I get around to it.....weather was fabulous and the wedding was really wonderful... a super day....the reception was held on the beach (restaurant on the beach ) and all had a great time ....especially those that took a dunking!!!

just thought the land looked like a giant patchwork quilt...amazing how man has created such a tapestry from years of ploughing and manipulating nature....tho nature always wins over given half a chance...

no matter how many times I fly I am in awe of those little or big engines getting such a weight of the ground...can't say I like flying that much and the bigger the aircraft the less I like it, however it is a means to an end.....

okeedokeee.....hope all is well with you guys and life is treating you well.....have missed catching up will try to make amends a.s.ap so until then ...

toodleoooooo.......

2008-06-19T04:23:00.005+01:00

***more wedding snaps****

toodleooooo......

2008-06-17T16:47:00.002+01:00

***tying up loose ends***

and generally clearing up after the wedding....nearly all sorted but here has been so much to do....catching up at work...tons of seedlings to plant out here at home and of course work......I can't decide whether to wash the chair covers or just leave them...we might even try to see them but haven't decided yet....seems like ages ago and yet it isn't....had a wonderful Fathers Day bar-b-Que yesterday...girls and partners and the in-laws came around and we had loads to eat and drink....bit too much really but hey it doesn't happen often....enjoyed the company and will make the most of youngest being around because she is off on her travels in November for three months and last stop will be Sydney where she hopes to stay and start the new phase of her life.....maybe will see her there soon if all goes well here....off to another wedding on Thursday so will not be able to post much, if anything until my return.....so till then....

toodleooooo......

2008-06-05T01:46:00.006+01:00

***before and after***

I arranged her dress and left the rest up to the girls then raced into church...... the organist began playing the 'Arrival of the Queen of Sheba' by G.F.Handel, (very apt if one happens to know baby girl)....
and in she came....her smile conveying all .....( the sun couldn't have beamed any brighter)....as she was taken down the aisle by her dad to stand beside her beau....

look at their clasped hands...

don't you just love the colour combination

of course I cried...couldn't help it ...said I wouldn't but I did of course...twice....lovely service...lovely hymns ....lovely readings....lovely everything.....and the happy couple exited to the tune of 'Allegro from the Water Music'......photos done and dusted......confetti showered everyone ......bride and groom went off in the vintage whilst guests boarded the waiting coaches....then off we all raced.... cos now it was party time!......

toodleoooooo.....

2008-05-29T13:01:00.006+01:00

***just a few more moments***

and so it was, deep down as I listened to the girls discuss their hair, their beautiful lavender dresses and their trip to our home in the old car, that I realised that this was going to be the last time my baby was here at home with hubby, her sister and me, as a single young woman...the next time she stepped through our homes front door she would be a married lady......of course at the time I couldn't dwell too long as the clock was ticking and we would have to make our way to church......

Several days beforehand I had tried to persuade baby girl that I wanted to walk to the church as it just a minutes walk away....down our garden path and out into the grassed oval where The Rectory sits, majestically looking across to our Church of St Mary's.....(hubby takes care of the property)...

'no, mum...I'd like you to go in the car'....'but I don't do posh cars!'..I said.....'well, on the day you do...and it would be nice if you went with Grand-dad and B.........a'....

couldn't argue that now could I .......

she also, had mentioned her thoughts about wanting to walk to church as well, but this didn't seem likely as the weather had been iffy and future son-in-law pointed out that they had decided on the car taking her, which I found rather amusing as we lived so close....

anyway...we chatted awhile and relaxed and during a quiet moment whilst straightening my necklace she announced..... 'I've decided I'd like to walk to the church with dad....' ....tears almost welled but I had to think of the old mascara so I smiled instead, and agreed ......'That would be lovely.....dad would love that....'

the time to go had arrived, grand-dad, B.....a and I manoeuvred ourselves into the old vintage...and chuffed our way around the corner and alighted moments later at the church gates.....Grand-dad and co went off into the church and as the car took off again to pick up it's next lot of passengers I chatted briefly to some passers-by and waited, yet again for the bridesmaids to arrive.....

waiting for the three late bridesmaids.....champagne photo chill time......a good laugh goes a long way......and a moments contemplation.....

our family's last moments together, just the four our us for the last time before baby girl becomes a married young woman.....

the old vintage waiting for us......words I wrote on the board outside our front door whilst she was at the hairdressers.....her journey from our cottage path, across the front of The Rectory and down the drive to the church front gates.....

which they did......very quickly....and as they did so,
a flash of white caught my eye and looking up towards the front of The Rectory I saw her..... she was gliding and smiling, arm in arm with her dad..........

what next!.....

toodleooooooo........

2008-05-26T06:16:00.003+01:00

***adding things***

so....I got myself ready....then waited ....and waited.... and waited..... 10 am comes and goes....10.15 comes and goes and by now I am getting edgy....supposed to be in church at 12 pm.... sister bridesmaid, who is always late for everything was waiting along side unperturbed by the the whole thing...'she'll be fine mum, stop stressing' ...yeah, right!.....anyway chatting away to grand-parents passed away a little more time and in she dashed, the bride to be, only slightly breathless....bearing bridesmaids bouquets etc......she looked to sweet and small and adorable, however no time to chat....'sorry I'm late, town's so busy'........'right, upstairs' I order and proceed to help her into the dress of her dreams....she couldn't get it here and had to go to York and it was certainly worth it... a simple, yet classic design...elegant and light....made form Thai silk.....

the photographer arrives and stars snapping away and there we all are... six people squeezing in and around our little bed roomed cottage...cosy but cute and what fun and games...especially as the photographer has to keep jumping across the bed in competition to a friend filming, and me trying to get my pennies worth of snaps.....during the WHOLE time the bride-to-be prepared herself for the biggest event in her life, with calm and poise....taking it all in her stride...'stop stressing, mum. you're just faffing'

20 minuets later we relaxed, sipping on a glass of champagne and waited and waited and waited for the bridesmaids....they were meant to arrive here at 10.45...they got here at.......

dad helping with the buttons..........flower arrangement for the arch around the church doors.......flowered pew ends........very tall spiral vase with orchid sprays for each end of the head table...

guests table centerpiece........hair design for one of the bridesmaids....dress details from amethysts and diamante set in silver filigree......Thai silk dress by Alan Hannah...

11.25........huge sigh of relief from me ....and many oooooos and ahhhhs from the girls before they erupted into great peals of laughter and giggles as they hurriedly discussed their mornings events whilst I served all with champagne......

to be continued........

toodleooooooo......

2008-05-24T04:38:00.005+01:00

***our baby girl's wedding***

hi everyone....soooooo sorry it has been so long since last here....in fact cannot believe two whole whirlwind weeks has gone since clocking in...however you all know the reasons....and to make things even more baffling is that a WHOLE week has gone already since the big day....

A week today at this very time as I am typing I was laying in bed awake (hardly surprising) waiting for Haley's alarm to go off....'6.30' she said, 'no way' I replied, 'hair appointment at 8' she said..... silly hour in my opinion.....anyhow after tucking her (for the very last time), into bed with a kiss and cuddle ....and a couple of tears......I waited and waited and waited for morning ...no wonder I look stuffed in some photos...(champagne had nothing to do with it!!)... alarm goes ....I get up...'cuppa tea, darling'....'yes please'.....bath is running ...tea is drunk and then baby races out the door, 'love you, mum, be back soon'....

I made up beds, cleaned up as photographer, grand-parents and bridesmaids would arrive in a couple of hours....champagne, strawberries and melon slices at the ready I went and prepared my self for the big day....will continue later....as so much to tell and am tired already

these shots show one of many arrangement in church all done by the kindness of 5 our church ladies and friends...the cake Haley decorated herself with lilac butterflies...the crystal tree I made using all those crystals I strung together a few weeks back...reception bouquet...

the 'Queen of Sheba's slipper'....confetti cones that I made and painted from wallpaper, filled with bought lilac rose petals and heaps of Japanese flowering cherry blossom from our garden that I collected and dried......one of ten reception flower arrangements in large round bowl....the room that the four bridesmaids, a good friend of sister bridesmaid and myself...(the boys that came to help decided to go to the pub, bless them...surprise, surprise!!!) spent all afternoon decorating the room ( amid the caos and stragglers from another function that had not finished) Haley's sister and I were the last to leave and 8.45 p.m. home at 9.20

I had to iron 85 chair covers and sashes ( which took hours over a couple of weeks) and cut to size the lilac organza ribbon.....Haley and bridesmaids and friend of... all did the bows thank goodness.....will try to show settings later......

so enjoy the pics will be adding more over the weeks ....so until then

toodleooooooo......

2008-05-10T08:32:00.004+01:00

***this time next week***

and we all will be freaking out and trying to remain calm at the same time.....no doubt eldest daughter will be on her way to the hairdressers and I will be waiting for her return so can help her get ready for her big moment.....I think I had better take a hanky cos tho think I am pretty tough I know I will be in tears as soon as the she enters the church with her dad.....we shall see....

she picks her dress up today and it will stay here in hiding.....almost all things are ready...dad finished the seat names last night and I have still a bit more wrapping to do on the pew end holders...Oh and have to get a couple of things to make myself a little more presentable for the big day...can but try! heehee

....dad will get his suit today as well so hope that looks good ....so will try to post in the week if possible

toodleooooo......

2008-05-07T05:06:00.004+01:00

***busy busy busy***

and that folks is what I am ....in fact I feel like a blue bottle on a mission....haven't stopped in days to write, think, speak (well... maybe sometimes), sleep, take photos or do anything of interest...tell a fib, went to sister-in-law birthday party on the weekend and ended up having a bad head during the night ...... come morning time, after eating french toast and drinking copious amounts of cranberry juice I was back into busy- busy -busy mode...and we all know why....amazing how much time it takes to iron, paint, glue, sew, create, pretend to create, try to create and then end up creating nought cos one's creation becomes a non goer.......then plan, decide, debate, have a mega debate, debate about debating and getting blinking nowhere fast....ah well it will be all right on the night (so I've heard).....anyway gotta go...no time to chat........busy-busy-busy....

toodleoooo...