tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34596954261902883732011-10-11T00:45:03.166+10:30Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.comBlogger3421100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-7543712973820930442011-01-18T11:00:00.002+10:302011-01-19T07:26:41.344+10:30

A selection of my indoor plants. I think this first one is called string of pearls - my favourite at the moment. Mostly I match up thrifted little vessels to a variety of succulents as these tend to be pretty hardy to grow.The black bowl contains an air plant which is supposed to grow without soil, it appears to be struggling under my care - have you had any experience with these? I need to do a

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-62533013105522437202011-01-15T07:27:00.000+10:302011-01-15T07:27:01.002+10:30

The littles spend  hours playing in the backyard. Sometimes perched in a tree, they survey their kingdom and dream up far flung adventures. So when a tree house was requested - their dad took  them up on the suggestion and built this beauty during his Christmas break.We think he did a marvelous job.  Of course we had to add buntingIt's  fun up there. 

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-45455598707523449972011-01-11T08:33:00.002+10:302011-01-13T18:10:17.631+10:30

A quick and satisfying session with the hot glue gun and some bobby pins yielded a few new hairpins. These were initially earrings which did not suit me, so I cut off the posts and glued them onto the bobby pins.  A button trio that sparkles.....  And a few other favourites. I slid these buttons straight onto the pins and secured them with a bit of glue.  Yes it was a bit hard to stop once I

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-8733204606298799652011-01-06T08:42:00.001+10:302011-01-06T08:43:27.200+10:30

A recent visit to the Adelaide Gaol made for an interesting excursion. It is one of the oldest public buildings in our state. Built in 1841 and housed approximately 300,000 prisoners during its 147 years of operation. The Gaol was closed in 1988 and is known as the longest continuously operating prison in Australia. The bleak, oppressive mood still hangs in the air. Heavy bolts and locks.   This

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-85180672175935312092010-12-31T12:27:00.000+10:302010-12-31T12:27:25.478+10:30

New slip dresses for summertime. The pattern is from Burda magazine but maybe I need to check about seam allowances as I found both the sizes on the small side. I used sewing weights to hold the pattern pieces onto the fabric instead of pins. Will definitely use this method from now on because it could mean less lost  pins on the floor. I've had in my mind to make a wrist pincushion for some

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-56249624320839227982010-12-28T22:33:00.003+10:302010-12-28T23:48:54.396+10:30

After the rush of Christmas, it feels good to search for some stillness. The late afternoon sun cast it's glow on the wallsEmbracing colour and scraps of  memories I'm glad  to turn the corner I've got a good feeling about the New Year.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-76744969704129498282010-12-12T21:57:00.001+10:302010-12-12T21:57:54.550+10:30

The festive season is well and truly upon us. The Christmas concerts, parties, picnics snowball. Now that school and work is over for the year we can really get stuck into the holiday groove. Hooray. 

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-19995196108186581242010-11-29T20:41:00.002+10:302010-11-29T20:47:40.513+10:30

The vegetable patch has needed attention for quite some time. It takes me a long time to get motivated in the backyard, but once I do, I could go all day. We spent most of the time pulling out the old stuff; coriander that had seeded, yellowing dill that was over six feet tall, and bunches of spinach and lettuce that had bolted in the recent hot weather. I left the overgrown garlic chives since I

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-9928608967230203942010-11-27T15:30:00.001+10:302010-11-27T15:32:16.542+10:30

I've been tinkering with  spots and stripes this week.   The thrifted 'sew simple' pattern was easy to follow.I think I like it. I definitely like the pockets.I thought it looked a bit schoolmarm.But hang on - I am a schoolmarm! Maybe I will wear it to work. Will look out for a navy belt methinks.I'm not so convinced about the next item. Should have known better. Horizontal stripes do my waist no

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-59295442767572270372010-11-22T21:51:00.005+10:302010-11-27T18:06:57.209+10:30

Meet Resilience, Hope, Fortitude,Clemency and Credence. Five Kokeshi Sisters who are on a journey to join Softies for Mirabel. May they be embraced by little hands who need them.The Mirabel foundation supports children who are orphaned or abandoned due to parental drug use. This is the third year I have sent something to the Mirabel Foundation - wolfgirl was my very first softie and there was bug

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-27061535741468649392010-11-15T21:54:00.000+10:302010-11-15T21:54:51.354+10:30

Just back from Sunny Queensland. Wow.  We saw the stunning beaches of the Sunshine Coast. Soaked up the Brisbane Vibe. Of course we had  to stop in at the GoldCoast. And visit a couple of theme parks.This was one of the places we stayed. A traditional Queenslander cottage, only a couple of minutes from the Brisbane River.  Sigh. I'm missing it already. 

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-16496652172849647742010-10-25T14:38:00.001+10:302010-10-25T14:40:19.775+10:30

The little people have gobbled up our broadband so that's been good enough reason to stay away from the computer. In the meantime I have been merrily occupying myself by sewing a few things. Throwing caution to the wind I cut into the stash of linen. It used to be that I would always make a cautionary outfit before cutting up the more precious stuff. Not anymore - in order to keep up the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-4661266830712071272010-10-04T20:44:00.000+10:302010-10-04T20:44:36.556+10:30

We've enjoyed a long weekend in these neck of the woods. And lovely sunny weather. Perfect for working out in the garden - weeding and digging  vegetable beds to prepare for new plantings. With lots of heave ho and even a couple of tumbles the last of the beets were pulled out. The smallest one still remembers planting her "beetshoots" last year... Long weekends are also good for a spot of sewing

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-76883401637015542702010-10-01T21:48:00.000+09:302010-10-01T21:48:53.005+09:30

 I've had a good thrifty run lately - here is a bit of the loot I have collected...     Small Pyrex dish and salad servers. Sweet and succinct ladybird classics. Pretty vintage dress in need of a little tender care. Adorable and eclectic children's retro wear. And then there is this oddball collection of things which I'm simultaneously intrigued and skeptical about. Will I wear them? Certainly

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-73653110417991499062010-09-27T20:56:00.001+09:302010-09-28T07:52:43.565+09:30

Finding some balance has been tricky. To notice those little details which make a day unique. In theory, working three days a week sounded fine. And I do like my job - but In reality I end up feeling like this disgruntled koala on the days I have "off". Trying to catch up on chores and attend to the rest of life. I'm beginning to think that my washing basket is  like the magic porridge pot that

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-29397985315823194202010-09-20T20:16:00.000+09:302010-09-20T20:17:01.856+09:30

Four years. How quickly they have flown by. The countdown to turning four was eagerly marked on the calender for several weeks. On the day she woke up just after 4am she was that excited! A pancake breakfast and birthday song to kick off the celebrations....

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-46541780230696847892010-09-11T20:39:00.004+09:302010-09-15T20:59:41.916+09:30

Today I put the knitting away. Tucked away for when the colder weather returns. I also wanted to share this shrug I finished. It's a simple rectangle design that I saw in the winter edition of Cotton Friend magazine. The best bit is that it does a bit of a transformer depending on how you button it up. You button it up along a seam to make sleeves. (the mister wanted to know if I "was planning

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-18467338303257716542010-08-29T07:48:00.000+09:302010-08-29T07:48:52.065+09:30

A small harvest of beetroots from the garden meant it was time for borscht. I used the same recipe I wrote of here. But this time I also added peas and potatoes. It's not very popular with the rest of the household but that's fine. I could eat this stuff for days!

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-67316874234825453272010-08-25T22:30:00.001+09:302010-08-25T22:32:52.543+09:30

It's time to get the vegetable patch ready for spring. The cold and wet days seem to stretch on and on. Not very tempting for getting stuck into the garden beds. Since the little one brought home sunflower seeds from a birthday party we decided to pop them into the soil. She sang a little song learnt at kindy: Here is a seed for me to grow, a little sun, a little shower - and then a flower. 

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-16207801112160303972010-08-23T13:59:00.001+09:302010-08-23T14:01:10.974+09:30

The granny squares were joined up. (I tried a variety of methods and also learnt how to make a border trim) I admire those who can complete a full size blanket - the joining and weaving in of ends certainly exceeded my patience. I tried a bit of joining as you go and then a few other techniques too... Finally a funny little poncho emerged. The little one has tried it on, posed thoughtfully and

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-26423670994565297932010-08-15T21:11:00.001+09:302010-08-15T21:14:29.393+09:30

Even the smallest scrap of fabric can inspire - these are the  little blooms hanging on my mood board. Because I do like a bit of blossom.  The latest Burda magazine has some nice ideas for pretty florals. I got reaquainted with my stash this weekend.Oustide it was cold and grey, but with a cup of tea and pretty fabrics I was thinking of warmer weather. The oldest daughter has taken on the quest

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-37756705765117567142010-08-10T19:20:00.003+09:302010-08-10T22:05:27.561+09:30

Still in the throes of the great declutter and shuffle. It has been most pleasing to cart off bags of stuff  (back) to the op shop. We have lived in the same house for fifteen years and things accumulate over time. My mind boggles at what sort of epic effort it would take to shift the entire household if we were ever to move house.... I have found a quiet satisfaction in finding a spot for

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-79468250253935190242010-08-01T19:31:00.003+09:302010-08-02T16:47:40.018+09:30

The smallest girls are now bunking together. They are already like two peas in a pod - so this will most likely be a good experience for them. This week there have been moments of high excitement, planning, quiet camaraderie and furious battles as they adjusted to this new shared zone. The smallest girl now has a full size bed  - cosy with familiar things from her old bedroom. Sometimes her big

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-83271043342363125892010-07-25T23:13:00.001+09:302010-07-26T12:47:42.502+09:30

Decided I would make a rug for the girls bedroom. I was sure we would find something suitable at Ikea, but no there was nothing quite right. Of course we did find  some other things I did not even know we needed until we found them there....does any one leave Ikea empty handed?I'm doubling up some thrifted wool and this is the result of a couple of nights of stashbusting. I'm most pleased with

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-50402712023246176052010-07-19T14:04:00.001+09:302010-07-19T14:05:05.978+09:30

Colours have that magical power to uplift the mundane - even  the ubiquitous wire coat hanger becomes something  more with a scrap of fabric wound around it. It's a bit silly how satisfying these were to make - and using up the scraps stash is good too.The smallest girl used some of her smartie stash to make these mushroom cookies. They will make a nice after school treat for her sisters. It's

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-86400284295688457872010-07-16T15:28:00.001+09:302010-07-16T15:30:30.133+09:30

I've been on a granny square bender. Determined to use a whole lot of coloured wool, I've been whipping up a patch of colour here and there. Could I ever make enough to form a blanket? The pile has grown steadily - I might make enough for a cushion or two. I especially like seeing how the colours compliment one another in each individual square - a colour study of sorts. And then there's the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-20225996046447649532010-07-13T11:37:00.002+09:302010-07-13T11:40:53.054+09:30

Had to share a new book we have been enjoying.  Yumi by annelore parot is superb and I bought it for myself as much as for my girls :) It's hard to choose just a few favourite pages....  It has a soft padded cover with the little kokeshi yumi stitched onto the front. And surpises each time you turn the page..The pages are full of stunning patterns and colours. Some pages flip or unfold. Others

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-2008952043087882082010-07-08T22:20:00.002+09:302010-07-08T23:20:01.229+09:30

Wound up spending some quality time with the middling today. It felt good to offer my undivided attention to her. Mostly my time is carved indescriminently.The challenge of meeting everyones needs (including my own) can be like walking a tighrope. Somedays I feel myself teeter and wobble.We started the afternoon with an alfresco treat. A teeny lemon cheescake for me and nutella crepes +

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-90646381714493910412010-07-02T15:27:00.007+09:302010-07-06T21:23:14.364+09:30

The cold weather makes me feel like knitting. And snuggling up in warm wooly wraps. I'm quite thrilled to have finally knit something besides a scarf! Leonie has kindly shared her pattern for this wrap vest on her blog. Thankyou very much. The instructions are very easy to follow; essentially it's a rectangle which I felt was within my abilities.... It took me a few weeks to finish. The lovely

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-5774816273643742142010-06-27T22:54:00.003+09:302010-06-28T10:43:05.464+09:30

Fresh Mandarins are very popular with the little folk around here. We have gone through loads of them this season and still they polish them off with enthusiasm. I managed to snaffle a few mandarins for these biccies. The recipe is from the new Australian Women's Weekly macaroons and biscuits cookbook. I'll be working my way through the yummy treats page by page! These biscuits are quite lovely -

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-21613636324049459692010-06-25T18:03:00.006+09:302010-07-07T08:01:57.202+09:30

Long time no blog. The usual suspects have been taking priority. Parenting, working, chores. Some hibernating. I've still managed to sew and knit this month, but have felt rather ambivalent about blogging on about them. But since I had rugged up in my grey wooly handmades today, I thought to take a few photos to share. The grey tunic above is my favourite - made of a light grey wool, it feels

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-497154935252722782010-05-26T05:44:00.004+09:302010-05-26T22:23:18.052+09:30

It's come over all wintry lately. These are a few projects I would like to try for the colder months. The images are from books and magazines in my collection.I'm a big fan of grey wool and this skirt has captured my imagination. Although I don't have a pattern , it looks fairly simple to adapt from a wrap around skirt.I think the crochet pockets are especially lovely.The rainy cloud applique

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-63095061541260196642010-05-23T21:10:00.008+09:302010-05-23T22:40:08.670+09:30

It was nice to get the chance to put my feet up. Once my feet are this warm and toasty I just like to stay put. We stayed in most of the weekend. I was left to my own crafty devices, making a proper old mess in the rumpus room. It was just what I needed to restore my senses. While I cut, stitch and crochet I contemplate the week that was. There was also a tiny bit of thrifting. The dish will be

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-15529023299371617132010-05-16T20:17:00.004+09:302010-05-19T21:56:27.412+09:30

A set of 4 drinking glasses. Pretty colours + sparkly gold stars. Bargain at 50 cents each. Most of our glasses are a jumble of mismatched finds, so it's nice to have a set of these... A delicate green blouse. I'm not familiar with the Nolita brand - but it feels/looks very well made. I adore this little grey tunic found for $2.50. It fits the smallest girl and she's had plenty of grown ups

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-64873963281339337612010-05-14T20:44:00.006+09:302010-05-17T16:44:15.072+09:30

I've been inspired by the kid's week clothes challenge this week! I wasn't expecting to participate, as working has really cut down on my sewing time. But after a little convalescing of my own, I hobbled to my sewing corner and got sewing :) These small pants were made for the smallest girl - and they only just fit. I traced a pair of her track pants but forgot that I would get no stretch in

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-23848726783899459112010-05-12T18:38:00.011+09:302010-05-12T19:09:40.047+09:30

An unexpected day at home. The smallest one had glassy eyes and feverish brow. Most of the time was spent on the couch holding my ear. Some kids have a favourite blankie or soft toy - but for this little one only mum's ear lobe will do. Nobody elses. Earrings must be removed after a long hard day so she can clutch at my ear.I oblige, but quite often I feel the urge to do something with my hands

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-13107531459796453012010-05-08T11:05:00.007+09:302010-05-09T08:52:55.626+09:30

She turned seven this week. She's a loving, funny, busy, sensitive person. I'm glad she still likes to play in the sand, dress up and pretend. When she was a toddler she would sing this little song"goody two shoes, goody two shoes, these shoes are too big for meeeee". Her wonderful imagination still churns out such gems. Most recently she has been inspired to write. One 'book' was dedicated

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-33143906278613230302010-04-30T20:39:00.008+09:302010-04-30T22:11:08.646+09:30

The plans are in full swing for birthday celebrations for a little girl who will soon be seven. She invited some friends to join her for a picnic party after school next week. Birthday parties can be so exciting - the count down for this special day began weeks ago! I've tried to make sounds about maybe spacing parties out to every second year.....but how can you deny that special childish

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-13703031534867150642010-04-26T07:22:00.005+09:302010-04-30T22:10:10.922+09:30

Debated with myself whether to take the pavlova to the family gathering. I'd used a dozen egg whites - but I think two smaller pavs would have been better to stack together. This was more of a pavlova pancake.But after I added plenty of cream, fruit and walnuts it looked more appealing.It tasted fine and I was pleased to see it disappear quickly.... The garden is a never ending work in

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-9843974583292416292010-04-21T19:18:00.003+09:302010-04-22T21:10:26.169+09:30

This is my early creative space post as work has a way of getting in the way of regular blogging... To see plenty more creative spacers check in on Kootoyoo every Thursday.This week saw me delving into my case of ribbons, lace and buttons. It's a favourite way to lose a few minutes now and again...I wanted to make a little hairtie to gift a birthday girl we went to see this week. I used the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-62065668875361796292010-04-15T21:20:00.004+09:302010-04-15T21:45:33.533+09:30

How quickly the school holidays have flown by. The days have been filled with all manner of happy, noisy, lazy, grumpy, funny, imaginary and creative moments.This cover is from a vintage book I have on the shelf. I'm amused by these old style books which often depict a world a little less Politically Correct than the one we live in today. But kids, bless 'em will always be kids. You just have to

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-87359920132749001382010-04-08T16:30:00.007+09:302010-04-15T22:43:21.060+09:30

There's plenty of creative stuff happening around here. But somehow I'm lacking the urge to blog much lately. Here is my little corner of knitty action. I'm winding balls of this thrifted wool, and trying to decide what to make with it. I've gotten other wool into a huge knotty mess when trying to knit with it in these loopy skeins. I think this is how it gets dyed does it not? The chair handles

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-15196136966321266262010-04-01T07:42:00.001+10:302010-04-01T07:47:42.604+10:30

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-4023409103633870682010-03-29T17:38:00.001+10:302010-03-29T18:04:03.741+10:30

I had to seize the day today. A fresh, new week to replace the less than average one. Getting busy in the kitchen is a good way to occupy my hands and mind. These banana + choc chip muffins to fill lunch boxes. A batch of pumpkin soup for the kids and curried cauliflower soup for the grown ups is ready for tomorrow's dinner. I don't feel like cooking after work....Also came across a recipe for

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-49914136888946374382010-03-21T18:28:00.005+10:302010-03-21T20:00:59.411+10:30

This recipe comes from my scrapbook full of magazine clippings. It's been a few years since I made this and now I'm wondering why it's taken me so long. It's a great recipe for those who love chilli/ginger/garlic flavours. nice and hot. I'm going to serve it up with baked pork belly that's marinating in the fridge overnight. For these two jars I used:1 Chinese cabbage3 Tbsp salt4 Tbs sugar2 cups

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-20404931722512641732010-03-16T21:15:00.005+10:302010-03-16T22:07:42.032+10:30

A little knitting to unwind with after busy days. I have an assortment of yarn I want to use up - There was only one ball of this so the scarf will be a short one. I love the way the colours seep into each other; grey to berry to rose to plum and so on.The days likewise, seep together. Juggling work and family life is keeping me busy.The girls have been engaged in their homework. A book report

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-62640126813270209662010-03-12T12:58:00.003+10:302010-03-12T13:12:27.957+10:30

funny little pine cone earings A retro dress with a shirred back detail. From way back when Target still made clothes in Australia instead of offshore. A handmade sausage dog for warding of drafts. What are they called?and an ornate tomato from the rambling bushes out the back...

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-31632801242853779032010-03-06T13:57:00.002+10:302010-03-06T14:16:54.785+10:30

Is it too soon to be indulging in Easter eggs? These little sweeties called out to me at the markets last night. "We're filled with turkish delight" they peeped. So I took them home. And we may have enjoyed a hot cross bun, buttered and toasty from the oven. It's definitely feeling a lot like Autumn. And how nice that is. In the interest of balance, we have also enjoyed our homegrown veg and

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-29116836728969618112010-02-28T20:48:00.004+10:302010-02-28T21:13:15.555+10:30

Here is a snippet of the puppet play we saw at the Fringe Festival last night. Absolutely mesmerising. I loved how each suitcase unfolds to reveal a tiny set - the sewing room especially! I would recommend the "Grimstones Hatched" for anyone who wants a little enchantment....

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-43873525444337752082010-02-26T10:41:00.005+10:302010-02-26T11:07:33.528+10:30

These photos were taken about three months ago. They're rather grainy, but I love them.Even in those three months she has already changed. The transition from the toddlers to kindy room has seen her blossom into a confident, bright little person. I love the way she greets the kindy staff with a loud hello and decides on which locker to put her bag. The best thing about the transition she reckons

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-16808101728608044072010-02-22T19:36:00.003+10:302010-02-22T20:15:29.969+10:30

The button holes are all done. And I must say, they are really not so hard once you get the hang of them. I especially like using the seam ripper at the end to slice open the button hole. This blue blouse is the first attempt - the buttons look a little wonky but they are at the back of the blouse. Actually I can slip the blouse on over my head which really makes those cute little buttons

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-41946130790109524472010-02-20T13:51:00.007+10:302010-02-20T17:43:51.895+10:30

Round here we've been keen to try the watermelons growing in our little patch. Tapping and waiting...Watermelons are selling for about 80c a kilo at the supermarkets. Cheap and plentiful. But there is something about growing your own. We could not wait any longer and picked the largest one - it weighed a whopping 5 kilos :)unfortunatley this one was far from ripe. boo. seems we will wait and tap

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-74143011895749034462010-02-18T11:35:00.003+10:302010-02-18T12:19:04.169+10:30

Trying to conquer the common old button hole. Mostly I'm a scan and 'go for it' type, but today I made a point of reading and rereading the instructions for automatic button holes. Alas, there was only one attempt which resembled a buttonhole. Finally I realised the instructions went onto the following page which held the last, important clue -the stitch dial needed to be reset after each

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-54139183285569298472010-02-14T17:55:00.003+10:302010-02-14T18:13:28.167+10:30

Fourteen years ago a lovely little person dropped into our lives. How quickly those years have flown. Yesterday a little celebratory picnic marked her birthday. And another bow to her collection.... Happy Birthday Ladybugx

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-15903886843360210832010-02-10T20:08:00.003+10:302010-02-10T21:52:10.066+10:30

I've had a bit of a colour theme going on. I do like a bit of red white and blue.First up, this skirt from the seersucker I thrifted last week. I'm most happy with how this turned out! I added about 8 lines of shirring to the waist - this is a very comfortable fit and I think a little better than an elastic casing. Secondly, the striped tunic top, which was revived from the lost cause basket.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-87455091552806409532010-02-07T21:18:00.006+10:302010-02-07T22:02:21.740+10:30

The Mister treated us with takeaway macaroons. I get rather enthusiastic about these sweeties.He says they can't be that hard to make...maybe he will give it a go?A little wooden puzzle - many earnest conversations about this bear with my little one.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-51360164448300092332010-02-05T16:02:00.008+10:302010-02-08T13:22:48.290+10:30

Here's a cake that has plenty going for it; deliciously tangy, simple to make and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry/fridge right now. One might assume that a slab of cake might last a little longer than a day.But somehow I doubt it.Ingredients22og unsalted melted butter1 1/2 cups caster sugar2 eggs1cup sour cream1/4 cup lemon juice2Tablespoons finely grated lemon rind2 cups

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-69663735430193655132010-02-02T21:31:00.002+10:302010-02-02T22:00:55.839+10:30

The little ones told me they need some sleep masks. Well I'm pretty sure it's because their big sister has one - those little copycats ;) I traced big sister's sleep mask (the top one) . We used felt, some smooth fabric and a bit of elastic. Then more coloured felt for decoration. I think the six year old's kitty looks a bit Simpsonish... Miss Three is rarely seen without her kitty

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-85209243605686514692010-01-30T08:50:00.006+10:302010-01-30T13:41:07.637+10:30

Sewing with stretch fabrics is still quite the challenge for me. I'm still pretty clunky with the over locker - occasionally fashioning large holes in seams when I start sewing midseam. But even on the regular machine, I run into difficulties when sewing with stretchy fabrics. I persevere because I prefer to learn by a trial and error method (as opposed to reading/following instructions). I spied

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-4166336974075608742010-01-27T18:18:00.002+10:302010-01-27T18:45:47.727+10:30

It felt so quiet and still at home today. The girls are back at school and kindy after six weeks of summer holidays. I looked forward to seeing them after school and hearing all about their first day back over some lamingtons and a cuppa. School uniforms, packed lunches, teacher's notes, readers, bus tickets, afterschool snacks. This is all part of the new routine. But in the interest of

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-30121897025485263292010-01-25T17:02:00.002+10:302010-01-25T17:20:39.304+10:30

a smaller version for the smaller girlthen a skirt I was glad the instructions were in English, as there were quite a few steps involved. A few too many for me, so I wound up winging things in the end.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-83799899544731522712010-01-21T08:47:00.009+10:302010-01-21T10:30:15.060+10:30

My typical breakfast consists of Vegemite on toasted rye bread and coffee. Not that exciting, but vegemite is the thing I crave when I wake in the morning. (when I first tried the spread as a new arrival to Australia, I was pretty disgusted....it was so salty and black!) What is your favourite food to start the day with? sweet or savoury? Lately I've tried broadening the breakfast experience.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-91597335942442341482010-01-18T15:53:00.003+10:302010-01-18T16:11:24.023+10:30

So I thought of somewhere to put that doily I dyed. Cut it in half and used it to make a collar. Miss six approves - in fact she calls this one her teacher dress. The dress pattern is from this book again. I've already made a start on a version for the smallest. This pearl coloured cotton should be good teamed with another doily from the pile.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-39791676349633177802010-01-17T22:02:00.006+10:302010-01-17T22:40:51.391+10:30

St Kilda playground sits out in the middle of not much else. The coastline here is heavy with seaweed and the air is salty to breathe. And always that wind....Just the sort of place you might find an old pirate ship to explore....With dungeons to lock up your sisters.And the slides! You need to take a deep breath before you take the plunge, maybe hang on tight to your slippery buddy. And then

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-21244759652456266752010-01-15T07:51:00.001+10:302010-01-15T08:03:48.942+10:30

I had a bit of fun with the eldest girl yesterday. She had wanted to dye a few stained t-shirts for a while and I thought I might throw a few things in the dye pot too. She likes a bit of tie dye too - so she reminded me how to. I have not dabbled in tie dye since I was about her age! I'm very impressed with her handiwork. And this process is so much fun. I especially like the final stage of

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-6292608425926326412010-01-11T14:07:00.002+10:302010-01-11T14:41:33.365+10:30

The last two days have been a sweltering 43 degrees. Too hot to do much of anything but lounge about at home... Well I did manage a bit of sewing. This fabric is my current favourite, not sure what it's made of but it has a nice drape and feel. I picked up several meters from the op shop and plan on making a few more things with it. The pattern is the peasant dress from Sew U - Home Stretch by

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-53141160686578076882010-01-06T06:29:00.005+10:302010-01-06T08:03:52.678+10:30

The pandas arrived a few weeks ago and most locals would agree that the news has hit saturation point. panda this, panda that. When we took ourselves off to the zoo on New Years Day, we were quizzed on arrival : "Will you be seeing the pandas today?" We shrugged, I suppose. The attendant diligently checked the schedule and announced "I can get you in right now.....or any time after that". Okkkk

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-48792987016376205672010-01-04T08:19:00.004+10:302010-01-04T15:49:17.779+10:30

Happy New Year! We spent new year's eve with our lovely neighbours. The swimming poolwas a welcome relief from the 40degree weather we had endured leading up to the new year.... We made some rice paper rolls full of crispy raw vegetables.And since then we have enjoyed the slow pace of summer. Even the computer turned s-l-o-w.The break from the computer was most refreshing! We went to the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-17946796675814857662009-12-23T14:59:00.008+10:302009-12-24T10:30:40.640+10:30

Christmas here we come. Just as well it only happens once a year! I enjoy the crafty aspect of Christmas but as you've seen from my posts - I try to stick to the easy & achievable. Although the gilded castle made of "kitchen empties" impresses me, it is not something I would try at home. I love the shiny, sparkly bits of Christmas. The Christmas tree in the centre of town towers over over the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-5928816847297510542009-12-22T06:28:00.005+10:302009-12-22T15:37:37.222+10:30

I'm putting on the finishing touches to these small felt ice cream brooches. It's slow and meditative work. A nice way to avoid the frantic pace out there. I ventured out to the shops just to make sure I had not left anyything to the last minute and spent ages in the car park. Cars were circling around like sharks looking for a space to park. I grabbed some groceries and had to give up the idea

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-50152329032765149302009-12-19T23:08:00.003+10:302009-12-19T23:35:54.506+10:30

Quick and simple baking project - even the very little ones can help out with. I like the thin crispy crunch of them too. You can string them up as decorations, but I'm sure they will disappear quite quickly. I've blogged about these sweet snowflakes way back here if you want all the details.... But essentially it's just a matter of snipping a snowflake from a Wonton wrapper, brushing both sides

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-51082136553366650262009-12-18T17:08:00.004+10:302009-12-20T20:56:10.294+10:30

I've had a little bit of crochet on the go this week. Small distractions of colour. The Catherine wheel pattern is quite a basic pattern to follow - but it took at least four attempts for me to cotton onto what should be going on there. But that's what happens when you get distracted from your distractions..... I chained some red and white together since I have no idea where to find the coveted

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-59463106735292893992009-12-17T09:39:00.004+10:302009-12-17T11:08:18.678+10:30

The little peggy dolls were crafted for popping onto christmas cards. I don't send out Christmas cards myself, and each year it seems that fewer arrive to our house. But when you are six, the christmas card exchange is very important business.As she pointed out the majority of the cards this year were addressed to her. And most of them had a candy cane or chocolate attatched to them. One morning

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-10063664370200178122009-12-16T11:54:00.008+10:302009-12-16T13:32:15.981+10:30

Origami does not get any easier than this! Hope you can follow the steps from the photos:You will need to cut the paper doily in half and start with the back facing youfold in towards the centerfold this in half againsnip just past the lacy bitsfold up a wingturn over and fold the other wing upfold the tip in to make the beak.p.s. I've also added some extra details to the post on teacup candles

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-86921665748425027162009-12-14T19:45:00.004+10:302009-12-14T20:11:38.318+10:30

Gnomes make me smile...these wee tiny ones came in a bag of retro Christmas decorations. So I had myself a little fun making a jolly diorama. Gotta squeeze in a few minutes of play every now and then - it can be quite relaxing :) The gnomes are standing on cocoa-scented play dough - such a cool idea I picked up from Hoppo Bumpo last week. I've heard many cute pantomimes played out since I've

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-12693439986245404732009-12-13T21:38:00.007+10:302009-12-16T12:14:53.037+10:30

The thrifted teacups have been waiting in my inspiration nook all week... today I finally took the plunge and melted the wax...I'll be gifting some of these as they actually work! edit: I bought the supplies for the candle making from the Adelaide Central Market - there is a small store inside the mall which sells honey and soap (will need to look up the exact name if anyone

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-20554632320715288682009-12-11T16:12:00.002+10:302009-12-11T16:33:22.539+10:30

A furry purry little kitten has come to live with us! He's just as enthused about the christmas tree as the little people. And of course the little ones are most enthused about kitten.... He is very tolerant of their affections. And playful when I'm pottering about with my sewing. I have to admit I find him rather delightful and was most surprised when the Mister brought him home. We haven't

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-72787136358869307472009-12-09T20:05:00.007+10:302009-12-10T13:37:05.390+10:30

three little placemats + three simple suggestions = potential present. Will you hand make any presents this year? Sometimes I wonder if those I inflict my handmade pressies on enjoy the gifts as much as I enjoy making them....hmmm.Anyhow, I like how they look pinned to the bedhead. The living and loving come naturally. But sometimes I do need a reminder to laugh. I'm not a lol sort of gal. Note

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-44254077991608585652009-12-07T13:01:00.003+10:302009-12-07T13:12:40.505+10:30

It really starts to feel like Christmas once the glitter comes out....we made a couple of snow globes on the weekend. You just need a jar, some glitter, water and something to pop into the jar.It could be a Christmas ornament or a small toy like our Ernie.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-54224254764499683392009-12-05T13:47:00.006+10:302009-12-06T09:36:22.328+10:30

'Tis the season. For making and baking. People to see, presents to wrap. Can you believe there are only twenty days until Christmas? How are your preparations coming along?We put up the tree last weekend. It has been redecorated many times since then. The little ones like to go "bauble picking" and fill their baskets with ornaments - then I put them back on and they will take them off again....

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-69326454654967312522009-11-29T07:56:00.002+10:302009-11-29T16:09:35.462+10:30

This summer dress has been taking up my spare time. Initially it was to have longish sleeves, which I had improvised. This made the dress restrictive and tight around the arm holes....I realised that all this time I have been sewing in sleeves back to front. So they were swapped and still the top was uncomfortable. So off they went again.I added a ruffled hem to the bottom, which was left raw.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-55930061801717840082009-11-24T16:27:00.001+10:302009-11-24T17:37:40.014+10:30

Did your grandma ever make trifle? Layer upon layer of jelly, custard, fruit and spongecake. I'm rather fond of this retro dessert and have been trying to make a cake type trifle. A friend described the steps to me - her version looked a lot more glamorous than this one, but I will keep tweaking this until I've got it down pat. To start, line the edge of the cake tin with slices of sponge roll.

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-82596498915290336652009-11-22T17:07:00.007+10:302009-11-22T19:12:35.018+10:30

Here's a small collection of mine for this week's 'my place and yours'. And what a great theme Ms. Kate has suggested. I love to see what other people collect.This assortment of wooden dolls have gradually become a collection as I find the odd one here and there. I do have some nesting dolls too, but I like this eclectic collection because they are mismatched, colorful and folksy. The one on the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-76214167442813917942009-11-21T08:06:00.007+10:302009-11-21T10:19:36.597+10:30

A stroll through the Central Markets on a Friday evening is a favourite way to punctuate our week. The lanterns were already glowing. The smattering of rain extending the sparkle and quenching our heat frazzled minds.The girls got into a flurry to find an umbrella each, but the rain was very minimal and I'm wishing for more....There were delicious dumplings, oodles of noodles and rice washed

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-48151729788190310282009-11-15T21:10:00.005+10:302009-11-15T22:13:25.417+10:30

1.Lying beneath a shady tree.2.Having a ladybug scurry along your hand

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-69131106074018501322009-11-12T22:18:00.002+10:302009-11-12T22:45:29.308+10:30

So I've lost count of the days we have endured this heatwave of 39 degreesC. If this is Spring what will Summer bring? There's still a few more days to get through till we get some reprieve. Many ice blocks have been consumed, cold showers, cold baths... I took the littles to the pool earlier this week- but soaking in a tepid communal bath is not my favourite way to cool down. The beach is the

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-26978330624242827722009-11-10T15:58:00.001+10:302009-11-10T16:09:33.786+10:30

A quick little skirt made from gingham. I've been thinking of bubble skirts for some time now. And when I came across this tutorial it was just a matter of finding a few spare moments to experiment. I want to make more....

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-21266255241356484502009-11-04T18:13:00.003+10:302009-11-04T19:14:59.521+10:30

I'm always on the lookout for letter and number resources to add to my bag of tricks. Anything that might encourage a reluctant reader or give a new spin on learning. Engaging students, giving their morale a jump start is one of the things that really makes my day at work rewarding. I found the wooden letters at an op-shop, one letter of the alphabet is missing, but I'm told that with just these

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-67723516115167705272009-10-27T21:32:00.003+10:302009-10-27T22:01:39.528+10:30

Batch of cupcakes...we popped marshmallows on top of the cupcakes just before they were ready to come out of the oven and they melted into a scrumptious topping. The chocolated ones were pretty good too! These little seedlings have settled into the vegetable bed, I like to check on their progress every few days. Unfortunately a creepy little insect has taken to the watermelon and rockmelon

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-73914811366582694982009-10-24T15:48:00.010+10:302009-10-24T16:41:26.717+10:30

This week's theme, by pottymouthmama, is bedside. My little bedside corner this morning is typically cluttered with unread books, a bit of bling, favourite pictures and photos I can see first thing in the morning and last thing before I turn to sleep. There is also some make up strewn around from a hasty touch up before heading out to dinner with girlfriends I've known since highschool. Since

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-91939106597186285172009-10-20T21:17:00.006+10:302009-10-20T22:45:34.507+10:30

I've been tinkering on this blouse for a couple of weeks. Working on it sporadically has been good because I tackle the various tasks when I have an hour here or there. And have thus avoided any major blunders from racing to finish up.It's made from a crisp white cotton. Perhaps a little too heavy for this type of gathered neckline which I had in my mind-but for a make it up as you go sort of

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-23521418342783843412009-10-18T13:58:00.006+10:302009-10-19T10:12:29.489+10:30

These shelves have worked hard in different parts of the house. Currently they try to contain the toys and such that belong to the smallest. Often the contents spill through the house, but it's nice to have a few little shelves to rest the pieces on when a tidy up is attempted.More shelves are on show at Meet Me at Mikes - perhaps you would like to join in ...

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-66767357415220800302009-10-15T17:30:00.002+10:302009-10-19T16:13:42.167+10:30

Since I've started working five days the creative output is bound to slow down. (Hence the sewing frenzy of the school hols :) But I did manage to get into some comfort knitting as the weather is still rather cold around these parts. I have wanted an extra long scarf for a while so this chunky, thrifted wool was used. The basket came along for the long drive to Monarto Zoo on the weekend...and

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-40785530604184582832009-10-11T18:55:00.007+10:302009-10-19T16:15:16.930+10:30

Apparently today's children don't get enough opportunity to get bored. We over-organize their schedules with activities. But these holidays gave us a chance to explore what happens when nothing is on the agenda.... There were makeovers. A little play dough alien was captured in a jar. ( Mr Maker inspired this and plenty more) And the old make-it books of yesteryear inspired this Japanese garden

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-21489986800768272632009-10-09T16:59:00.003+10:302009-10-09T19:32:31.580+10:30

It has been a quiet few weeks. Mostly we have hibernated at home. But today a trip to the city was made to mark the end of school holidays. The girls trudged far and near in search of a 'cutie' photo booth ....They spent quite some time adding the sparkles and hearts to the imagesthen we were all keen for some baci chocolate cake... I also treated myself to a new satchel and some floral

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-43454613204735940582009-10-02T22:13:00.005+09:302009-10-19T16:16:08.082+10:30

still in the grips of sewing fever...I'm trying to work out the sizing of those Japanese patterns. The blue top is the blooper version. Somehow I messed up the sleeves. But I liked the fabric too much to give up on it & managed to make a loose tank top. The next one had sleeves that worked out well - but I will unpick and gather it more at the neckline as the larger size is a bit too loose. Quite

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-40630929215653503272009-09-28T17:29:00.005+09:302009-10-19T16:17:04.679+10:30

I'm enjoying a little sewing bonanza. Inspired by the arrival of some Japanese sewing books, I've picked some favourites from the stash of thrifted fabrics... And then today I stumbled across a bit more retro goodness in my travels. I've never seen these type of large spools of cotton before. They look industrial. Here are my first finshed projects.A loose blouse and a tunic dress. I like to use

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-85281172151111893522009-09-23T23:09:00.002+09:302009-10-19T16:20:35.583+10:30

A solitary stroll this evening around the grounds of the University . It seems another lifetime ago that I came here to study architecture and art. Old memories juxtapose my current landscape Portals to learning, culture and opportunity. For some. Tonight I came to Elder Hall to see a girl play her viola. The final performance in a marathon of rehearsals, festivals, and school musicals. And yes

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-69714149968817762162009-09-21T11:58:00.003+09:302009-09-21T12:43:12.711+09:30

This book has been inspiring me to think about planting out some new vegetables for the spring garden. It's written in that old fashioned tone which I find amusing to read :" This book is designed primarily to provide boys and girls with just the information needed to stimulate their interest in gardening and to show them how to produce worthwhile plants".The illustrations and diagrams are

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459695426190288373.post-33190703366383894012009-09-14T20:46:00.005+09:302009-09-14T21:06:42.387+09:30

bye bye baby cheeks, hello little big girl!today she turned threeShe colours our days with her sweetness.Today we helped her celebrate with colours for painting, playing and feasting.She rocked out at the playground, nibbled a fingerbun which the baker had iced with extra sprinkles especially for her.Then swimming lessons - always the highlight of her week; often she will dress in her bathers/

Bird Bathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03918396655766734244noreply@blogger.com10