The love supreme...

Family.....

2012-02-18T21:26:00.000+10:30

I'm quite sure Parps would have loved the day....

He would have been so happy to see almost all of his brood under the one roof.

He would have loved seeing us all catch up... for some it had been almost 20 years!!

He would have loved that so many of his friends.....and past neighbours were there to pay their respects.

The memorial service gave us all a chance to remember the happy times and celebrate

his amazing and jam packed life.

Dudley and Grace.....

2012-02-16T09:08:00.000+10:30

Just a quick shout to say.....

that these babies are all up for adoption.

A few are for custom orders....

the remainder will be loaded to Dudley and Grace in the next day or so....

What I wore Wednesday....

2012-02-15T09:03:00.000+10:30

Comfy home clothes again today....

Pants - Target- Op shop

Singlet - Op shop

Shoes - obscured by grass.....but from the Op shop too

Another bargain outift....$15.00

While on the topic of clothes.....and how things look....

I came across this site where you can put in your measurements and see what you look like in a virtual fitting room..... it was a bit of an eye opener.

Check it out here..... fits me

So what are you wearing today?

Snippets from home...

2012-02-14T21:02:00.000+10:30

I often wish life was slower....

or I wasted less time!

I have had a week off......but I haven't been nearly as productive as I had planned in my head.

I did start on some new little owls......for Dudley and Grace... including some special little custom orders.

I began another round of the 12wbt.... which means getting myself organised in the kitchen again.....

I turned a pile of cucumbers into dill pickles.....and they were delicious...so I made another batch....

which are already almost gone.

I cleaned all my ceiling fans and air-conditioner vents.... what a horrid job.... but so good now its done.

...and I finally stitched some of my vintage fabric squares into strips.....my quilt has begun!

Not a bad start to the week I guess.

The Vocational awards night

2012-02-12T17:31:00.000+10:30

Friday night was a very special night for us....

It was the Riverland and Mallee Vocational awards night.....

Ianie and I were bursting with pride....

(see...here we are bursting...)

Because....both Mitch and Briony were finalists!

Mitch was a finalist in 'Apprentice of the Year'......

...and Briony was a finalist in the 'Vocational and education training student of the year'.

It was a lovely night.....and just fabulous to see so many young people awarded for their efforts....

The winner of this years 'Apprentice of the year' was a hairdressing apprentice.

We were so proud of Mitch though.....to make it through the applications....and then interview process....and to be among the finalists was a wonderful achievement in itself.

Briony was a lucky little chick.....she was dual winner of the Riverland and Mallee VET student of the year..

We were certainly proud of her....and all the efforts she has put in over the last year.

Another proud Mummy moment.

Thrifty Thursday....

2012-02-09T21:45:00.002+10:30

I had a couple of finds this week...

I am not 100% certain Ill keep these....

I loved the colour....they fitted not too badly....but they are waaaaaaaay too long and flared in the legs...

Are they worth hemming up?

Will I wear them?

Are they $8.00 well spent?

(Obviously they are 100% linen and in need of an iron )

Decisions....decisions...

...and then there was this dress....
i just couldn't resist it.... I'm such a sucker for tartan.....and red tartan at that!

I can imagine getting wear out of it in winter too.....

leggings and boots with a jacket over the top and a long sleeve T underneath.

I just had a feeling....

2012-02-08T16:55:00.002+10:30

You were on my mind when I woke...

I even had a little conversation with you.....totally in my head....

I messaged Mum to check....

She said you were so unwell......but still hanging on....

I was glad I had phoned.....and I sent my love to all.

I couldn't shrug the feeling I had though....

I went out for lunch with a friend....and even mentioned that I just had a feeling Id know.

(I didn't)

Dad phoned no less than 30mins later......and as soon as I heard his voice...I knew.

You had gone....my dear Parps.... thank you for everything....for being such a huge part of my life.

and remember..." wherever you are......and wherever we are.....we are always together"

Love you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~edited to add~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you so much for all the lovely thoughts and cyber hugs....
I do feel so very lucky.
I've had an amazing Parp.....well into my adult life.
He has seen not only my kids grow into adults...
(plus all of his other grandies)
but also his great great grand-daughters come into this world.
I've shared a bond.... I've smirked at his views....and laughed at his way with words.

How lucky are we....another guardian angel to watch over us.

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000+10:30

...its been awhile since I shared a WIWW...

So here goes..

3/4 Jeans - Target $6.00 Op shop

Top - also Target $5.00 Op shop

Shoes - Big Dub $10.00 new

Bracelets.....one I've had for eons...the other was a gift from the sweetest friend.

So....all in all...its a $21.00 outfit....pretty damn good I say!

Kindy girl.....sort of

2012-02-07T12:22:00.000+10:30

It was a big day for little Miss AB....

Finally her long awaited day had arrived..... she was off to Kindy....into occasional care.

So ...technically....not Kindy.....but to Bells.....ITS KINDY!!

She has talked about it for weeks.....

She has clothes she refers to as her 'Kindy clothes'...

and this morning when Alex said that today was the day....

she said...."Yep....its not one more day.....its today"

She gave Alex the briefest of goodbyes......and settled in like she had been going for years.

Briony and I joined Alex to collect her.....

She was excited.... and had had a wonderful day.....including 4 lovely paintings.

I'm not sure when she goes next.....but I can bet she will be asking Alex every morning when she wakes ....if its Kindy today?

The vintage fabric square swap.....quilts in progress

2012-02-04T08:56:00.001+10:30

I have earmarked this weekend.....

to begin on my vintage fabric square quilt... I've circled it on the calendar....called for peace and quiet...

and psyched myself up.

Soon....very soon.....Ill have one of these too....

Check out these AMAZING versions by....

Lea

Angie

Yvettes in progress

(Charmaine)

and I know I've seen others in my blog travels....which I would love to include.
Soooooo.....if you don't mind me adding yours to my little show and tell....please leave me a comment and Ill come and steal a photo and link.

Have a super weekend.....
Mardi x

A bloggy award....

2012-02-03T08:23:00.002+10:30

Earlier this week I was a tad chuffed to be the recipient of the Liebster blog award.

Thanks to the gorgeous Suzy from 'at the farmhouse' blog. (Thanks so much Suzy)

Its an award for bloggers with less than 200 followers (give or take a few)....and who have a lovely blog.

So...now its my turn to share some of the love......I would like to share the award with these beautiful girls...

Leonie at http://www.kiwiatheart-leonie.blogspot.com.au/

Bron at http://www.taylormade96.blogspot.com.au/

Malea at http://franklymydear-malea.blogspot.com.au/

Jenny at http://onevintageday.blogspot.com.au/

and Lea who is the most amazing driving force behind http://littlebitsofpretty.blogspot.com.au/

Please follow these simple rules.
1. Share your appreciation with the blogger who awarded you the Liebster by linking back to their blog.
2. Post the award.
3. Share the 5 blogs you are awarding the Liebster with and let them know that they have received it.
4. Enjoy the new attention this award brings to your blog.
5. And last, but not least - have fun.

So if you get a chance ....pop by and say hello.....

Mardi x

Thrifty Thursday - in the kitchen

2012-02-02T16:07:00.000+10:30

Gosh I love this time of the year....

My garden is beginning to produce some lovely tomatoes and corn.....

...and our friends and neighbours are also sharing produce with us as well....

Like these scrumptious cucumbers.....and enormous zucchinis.

Of course....typical of seasonal produce....its all or nothing....

So..... I'm inundated with it at the moment...

and because I hate wastage.....and I love to live thrifty....

I spent the afternoon turning some of this into meals before it was wasted.

I don't know if you have seen this book before or not.....but its fabulous!!

Not only does it explain exactly how to grow your own produce....

it helps with recipes of what to do with it once you have.

So....using Stephanie's book...

I made a delicious tomato and basil pasta / pizza sauce... I've popped this away in the fridge ready for Tuesday night....Pizza night!

...and one of those huge zucchinis is now the main ingrediant in this slice...which is topped with the tastiest tomatoes I've ever eaten.....straight from the garden.

I also made a yummy little Asian cucumber salad.....its a little on the spicy side...perhaps a smidge too much chilli....but I think it will go nicely the zucchini slice for dinner tonight.

Then.... because I don't like to waste anything......I fed all the peels and scraps to my new pets....

the tiger worm family.

So there it is.....my Thrifty Thursday.

(Id love some recipes that use up cucumbers if anyone has any suggestions??? ... I am planning on making some cucumber pickles tomorrow....but any other ideas welcomed)

Pizza night

2012-02-01T21:34:00.000+10:30

On Tuesday night we began an exciting new tradition in the Winen household....

thanks to a brilliant 21st gift from Mitch's work mates..... the most amazing pizza oven.

(Obviously they know him...and his love of pizza well)

So the family have declared that Tuesday nights will now fondly be known as "Pizza nights"

There was something magical about sitting outdoors....watching them cook....

it could just be that Mitch was in charge....and all I needed to do was sit back and enjoy the evening....knowing that very soon Id have a delicious slice of pizza for tea.

So now the test run is out of the way successfully.....we will be extending the invitation out

for others to join us as well.

I'm already looking forward to next Tuesday.... funny about that.

Happy 21st Mitchell......

2012-01-30T12:16:00.002+10:30

What a HUGE weekend !

Mitch celebrated his 21st birthday ....and it was a hoot!!

We invited 80 guests.....both family and friends for his party....it was a costume party.....

we were all to come dressed as something beginning with the first letter of our names.
There were some hilarious costumes....and Mitch was over the moon to see that almost everyone
embraced his theme...regardless of whether they liked to dress up or not.

The weather was hot and humid....but thankfully cooled off a little in the evening... it was so hard getting our face paint to stick when were dripping from the heat.

We cooked roasts......and salads for dinner....and ordered a huge chocolate mud cake for dessert.

I think the last of us stumbled to bed at around 3.30am.

Then it was up early in the morning...

We side stepped the mess.....

and cooked up bacon and eggs for breakfast....
By the time all of the family dropped in to say their goodbyes....there were 30 of us....

and because we rarely get to see each other these days....
it was wonderful to have a little more time together.

As usual.... I'm sad I didn't get more photos.... but its very hard to be the hostess.. and the photographer.

Here is a little of what I did manage to snap....

So...there it is...

It seemed only last week we were planning the night....

dreaming up costume ideas....

and writing lists....

and now its all over...leaving us with some hilarious memories of a bloody brilliant night.

Happy Birthday Mitch!!!

...and a little more scrapbooking

2012-01-25T21:33:00.003+10:30

I thought I would share the remainder of the layouts from my recent scrapping spree....

So looking forward to snipping and sticking again soon....

Just need to get this all consuming 21st out of the way first....

This weekend...Mitch turns 21...

we have a party here at home.....with 80 guests......and a rather large number of house guests as well..

Its been a buts few weeks....and preparations are well under way.

Have a super weekend.... hopefully back to normal blogging nest week.

Mardi x

Simplify 2012 and a thrifty Thursday....

2012-01-21T10:39:00.000+10:30

My goal this year was to simplify....

De-clutter....organise.....and make life more streamlined.

(I have a feeling I've said the exact same thing over many years.....but this year.... its my priority....its not just another thing added to my bulging list of things to achieve)

So...this week when I wasn't at work.... I was tackling a big one....

My craft room....

I needed to give storage some attention....

I needed to ditch..purge...and donate some of the excess...

and put whatever was remaining into some sense of order.

Ahhh....it feels so much better already....and I still have more to go....

My shelves are actually partially empty now....

I could actually lay my hands on something if you asked....without having to open and rummage through a dozen different boxes...drawers and pots....so that makes it all worthwhile.

My smaller pieces of fabric are all neatly folded and colour coded....

I have a basket that is exclusively for out-going mail.....and a little pile of sewing projects.

I finally bit the bullet and bought myself some small white filing drawers to try and minimize the ever-growing mountain of papers on the desk.

Then just when I was feeling a little more in control....

and had given myself a stern talking to about the amount of fabric I have hoarded......annnnnnnd had decided that is was essential I de-stash that as well.....

I paid a visit to the Op shop......

and of course I came home with this gorgeous little pile of fabric pieces for $6.00

and a gorgeous $3.00 sheet.....as well as my very first Pyrex find for $3.50

So.....I felt a little like I took two steps forward and one step back......

but who can resist such beautifulness!!!

Have a super weekend...

Mardi x

..a gift for a friend...

2012-01-17T20:47:00.001+10:30

My dear friend Vicki has a brand new grand-daughter.....

and she asked if I would mind stitching her a quilt as a special gift.

Of course I didn't mind at all...and especially after she had spent an entire day helping me sort the fabrics for the Vintage fabric square swap.

I used a simple block pattern.....and some pretty little girly fabrics.

I was pretty happy with how it turned out......and so was Vicki.

a wonderful weekend on the river....

2012-01-16T15:29:00.001+10:30

What could be better.....

Weekend off.....

Perfect weather...

Camping...

Water sport...

Fishing...

Family we rarely see...

Good food...

a few wines...

laughs...

and no doubt some very fond memories we will all look back on in the future.

Here is a little pictorial snippet....

Our camp....on the river bank...

merely a smattering of tents...swags.....deck chairs....and river sport equipment.

There was a lot of fishing...

...resulting in a lot of little carp like these......but nothing edible at all.

There was kayaking...

and a little yabbying....without success.

There was lots of swimming....

knee-boarding...

Snacking....

Breakfast eating....

and tom foolery....

Such a totally awesome weekend.....

Mardi

Scrapbooking.....

2012-01-13T07:42:00.000+10:30

I don't scrap nearly enough these days....

Its always on my list of things to make time for......but I often just don't get there....

So.....with the kids away on holidays after Christmas I spent a couple of afternoons...snipping and sticking....and having a blast.

I scrapped 9 layouts in total.

Here are a few....

Cover girl - uses lots of loveliness from Little bits of pretty...

and a cute little birdie from The chip chop shop

Looking forward to stealing some more scrapping time soon....
Mardi x

Thrifty Thursday

2012-01-12T14:26:00.001+10:30

I'm sharing something a little different today for my Thrifty Thursday post....

Its a dolls house that hubs and I gave to the girls as part of their Christmas present last year.

I came across it at a garage sale in November....

I was actually on my morning shuffle when I saw it tucked against the fence ...with boxes of 'stuff' piled all around it.....so I detoured and asked how much?

It was looking very tired...

(I SO wish I had taken a real before pic.....the one I have is after we stripped it out and repainted)

but it had good bones.....I could tell is was a restorers dream...haha

I paid the $10.00 price tag and bolted home to get the car to collect it.

Then it sat...under a tarp....as a "Must DO" project....

Finally in the week before Christmas we sprung into gear....

Hubs painted it all up freshly...and relayed some new flooring....

then I set to work wallpapering...

I whipped up some new curtains....and a couple of patchwork blankets / floor rugs...

bought some pieces of furniture....including a kitchen with a whistling kettle...

then tied it up in a bow ready for Christmas.

I am keeping my eyes out for some better furniture....something in a better scale than the eclectic pieces its currently furnished with....but the girls love it.....and that's the main thing.

Now that....in my humble opinion.... is being Thrifty!
Mardi x

What I wore Wednesday...

2012-01-11T23:00:00.000+10:30

I picked this top up at the Op shop today....

I loved the pattern on the fabric...

and Im always a sucker for green.

Annoyingly its a little firm around the bottom...

so there is a good chance it may end up back where it came from.

Top - Target...from Op shop
Pants - Crossroads
Cardi - Crossroads
Shoes - green wedges - Op shop
Necklace - a gorgeous gift from Jane at Kabwares
Bracelets - one was a much loved gift....the other just matched it perfectly.
Body - finally a shift...less another 300g

What were you wearing on Wednesday?

My Parps....

2012-01-10T21:49:00.002+10:30

I just quickly wanted to mention how much I LOVE my Papa....We all do!

He is a father of 3..

grandfather of 9...

great grandfather of 26

and great great grandfather of 2

He has been such a huge part of my life over the years.

During my childhood on the farm....I saw him almost every day....then as the years went by we just cherished the visits we had together.

So...when I heard Mum and Dad and my Aunt and Uncle were planning a visit...

I made a last minute decision....booked flights and joined them...

I'm so very grateful that I did....

I got the chance to spend some time with him....

and tell him how much I love him.

Its such a shame there is so much distance between us.....

but we both know that we are always together in our hearts.

How lucky am I.

Thrifty Thursday...

2012-01-05T08:31:00.000+10:30

Its a New Year....

and as part of my unclutter and simplify motto....I finally got around to loading the bags of unwanted clothes into the car....and off to Vinnies.

Typical of me....I had one last sort though.....rescued a few things back...

and said my final farewells to the remainder.

I had a brain wave when I saw this Tee though...

I came from Katies....the fabric is lovely....but the neckline was not.

I never wore it....it was too high in the neck....so it seemed the perfect candidate for this makeover I came across on pinterest ....

Its the Tee to Tank tutorial by Jen from upcycled education...

Personally I think its brilliant transformation.....and perfect for our stinking weather...

It was hard to stop once I began......and a couple more Tee's got the same treatment....I figure they were only heading to the Oppie anyway...
Happy Thrifty Thursday to you too...
Mardi x

What I wore Wednesday....

2012-01-04T07:46:00.000+10:30

Its been awhile since I blogged a WIWW...

and its high time I played along again... so this is me.....everyday...comfortable me...

Pants - Crossroads

Tee - and oldie but a goodie....

Necklace - Diva or Equip

Bracelet - a gorgeous beaded one made especially for me by my cousin Kerry.

Sandals - Big Dub

Body - same weight for the last 3 weeks... you could say I'm at a plateau.

Id love to see what you wore too....please share!

Mardi x

etzcetera magazine - issue 4

2012-01-03T17:19:00.001+10:30

Yummo....

...another gorgeous issue of etzcetera has just hit the airwaves...

and its packed with gorgeousness.....as always.

If you haven't purchased a copy yet....pop over (HERE) for all the details....

you can also catch up on the back issues... if you missed out.

Here is a tiny peek at my contribution this month...

Mardi x

Gosh this makes me happy...

2012-01-02T20:47:00.000+10:30

Quite some time ago I mentioned to my Grandmother that I love old fabric remnants...

I knew that she had been very crafty throughout her life.....and wondered if she had anything tucked away...that she would be willing to give to a new home.

Unfortunately she had long cleaned out her stash....so I thought no more of it.

Then.....a few months ago she told me that a friend of hers had given her some fabrics for me....

I was so excited.... and waited patiently until Mum and Dad collected them...

and found a way to get them here to me.

I received them in the lead up to Christmas.....but in the rush I didn't really have a good look...so now...with life settling back to normal.....and with thoughts of my vintage fabric square quilt on my mind...

I dug them out....and took a proper look...

Gosh.....I'm thrilled with them!!

.....and especially these few..... how sweet are those florals.

So no doubt in coming weeks some of them will find their way into my quilt....how wonderful.

Speaking of quilts......I have been literally over the moon to see some gorgeous quilts taking shape since the swap. Thanks so much to everyone who has emailed or shared a link.

Mardi x

Day one - a new year....a new look....

2012-01-01T22:59:00.001+10:30

Just call me a copy cat.....

because when I saw Janelle's gorgeous new blog banner....I was smitten!!

I LOVED it!

So.... all of a sudden I felt an urgency to begin MY year with a new look too....

a look fitting with my 'Simplicity...no clutter' goals for this year.

So with Janelle's reassurance that she totally didn't mind me following suit....

I gave 'the love supreme' a makeover....all the time thanking my dear friend for her inspiration....and secretly wishing mine could look half as gorgeous as hers...(in the nicest kind of way of course...hehe)

Happy New Year - 2012

2012-01-01T09:27:00.000+10:30

In search of something profound and witty to kick off the new year....

I stumbled across this via pinterest....

and I liked the sound of it.

(source)

on a personal note....

I usually join the hoards and take the opportunity of a new year to set myself some goals and dreams to work toward.....

like 'the list' I wrote a few years ago.

(Which on reflection I am pretty proud of.....yes...there are a few points I havent quite mastered.(like writing letters)....but Ive been able to put a huge tick alongside the majority of them.)

However....

This year ....I am not so sure....I guess you could say I'm waiting for the light bulb moment.

In previous years its been easy.....Ive felt like something was missing....Ive needed to regain something....like health....joy....or life balance.

So... perhaps its a sign that Ive been a good life student....because I don't have that screaming 'thing' I'm missing any more... I feel mostly content... I feel healthy.....I'm healed....I love my life.....

and I feel blessed by everything in it.

Perhaps this year will just be about perfecting the balance.....and simplifying.

I'm tired of complication.....over commitment.....and clutter.

So that's it.....that's my goal for this year.

To everyone who reads my humble little blog....I wish you the very best of everything this year...

I hope your dreams come true....and resolutions are fulfilled.

For those dear friends of mine who are doing it tough at the moment....my thoughts are constantly with you...I wish you health and healing this year.

Here's to a bloody awesome 2012....

Because.....

2011-12-31T09:14:00.000+10:30

...even plastic animals need a nap occasionally

She always has them in pairs....."because they are friends"

but I've never caught them napping before.

Poor giraffe....his mate was obviously missing in the toy box.

Handmade Christmas.....

2011-12-30T10:21:00.000+10:30

Before I close the lid on the festive season.....I want to share some of the beautiful handmade gifts that arrived into my home over the last few months......I sure was a spoilt bum!!

There gorgeous tree decorations were a gift from Kaye K.....who took part in the Vintage fabric swap.....

I just had to share them.....they are so sweet.... the middle one with "The love Supreme" embroidered on it is too cute for words. (Thank you so much again Kaye)

...and this adorable little house from Leonie...who also took part in the Vintage fabric swap....

...and then these adorable crocheted snowflakes (there is a set of them.....but only three showing).....which look absolutely stunning on my tree.....

The photo doesn't do them justice....

the tree has been slightly (or majorly) disheveled by cyclone Bella and Brooke....but NEXT year.....

when we start a fresh......our tree will look just beautiful....and the snowflakes will be the swan song.

.... this gorgeous cushion was a gift from Janelle.....made from a mix of vintage fabrics..... in colours I adore...it matches in perfectly with our home.

....and these beautiful servers from Jane at Kabwares......who must have secretly peeked into my home....and known I was badly in need of some.

(I was also pretty excited to see that Kabwares herb markers were for sale in Sussans over Christmas)

and this beautiful teatowel.....with the most booootiful trim.....from dearest Moi.... this one wont be for dishes....it will be for special tea towel moments!

So that's a little of what made me happy over the last few weeks....

I was also the recipient of some beautiful cards..... fabrics....and other gifts.....all of which will hold special memories ...and reminders of friendships in 2011.

Thankyou.

This was our Christmas......

2011-12-27T00:08:00.000+10:30

The lead up to Christmas day is always special.....

there is a buzz in the air...

and that little sparkle of excitement as we wait for the big day to arrive....

Here is a peek into our Christmas...

We caught up with friends......

The present mountain grew and grew under the tree....

We dined at the club on Christmas Eve as we have for the last few years.

The girls had the time of their life joining in with the games.....and seeing Santa one more time.

Bells was happy to sit and chat......on the other hand Chook does not like him....not one little bit!

Then the day arrived.....and because I worked a day shift....we all gathered in the evening for gifts....

and a delicious hot roast meal.
(Note Chook in her yellow gum boots.... they are her favourite things.....she wears them every day....

......with every outfit.)

The girls loved their new dolls house....

and then......as if the day wasnt special enough.....

These two got ENGAGED!!

Congratulations to my gorgeous M & M....

so.....after all the excitement of yesterday......today was low key....

We ate leftovers..... listened to new CD's.....and played games...then....I went to work.

We all had so much fun.....Im already looking forward to next year...

Christmas shoot...

2011-12-23T10:06:00.001+10:30

Each year I try to herd all the kids together for a Christmas photo shoot....

It always sounds like its going to fun...

I imagine us all smiling beautifully.....with the perfect backdrop and lighting....ending with a family portrait that I love and can hang on the wall.....

In reality....

it couldn't be further from my vision.....

Everyone rocks up......at different times....we are always waiting impatiently for someone...

No-one is ever in the mood....

All I hear is " hurry up"

The lighting is always wrong....and no-one will move....

So..... I'm embracing the ordinary....this is the real US!

Vintage fabric square swap - start stalking the postie!!

2011-12-21T13:51:00.000+10:30

Vintage fabric square swap....in dot point.

*Thanks so much to everyone who took part.

*Thanks also for your patience.....it did drag out a little later than I hoped....but at this time of the year the post system is bogged down.....and parcels did take longer to arrive.

*There were a few girls I didn't hear back from....and I hope that no-one has missed out.....but I can only send so many emails.....and in all fairness to those who had sent already....I wanted to wrap it up.

*There were 3295 squares in total....and I counted each and every one.....twice!

* It was a LOT larger job than I first thought......it took my friend and I six hours to sort out the bulk of them....and then myself another five hours to finish off the sort....with a little reshuffle of some to make sure the variety was fair. It then took another two hours to package and postpak them all up.

It was a job bigger than Ben Hur!

*I have tried to where possibly not give you your own back.....but in all honesty....it became too hard in the end to keep track of what belonged to who.....so it is very likely you will have some of your own squares back...which I'm sure wont matter too much.

* You will have multiples of some.....and singles of others.....there were just a lot more of some fabrics than others.....but in my original quilt a lot of the fabrics are repeats too.

So.....here is a run down of my sorting day....

I bundled them all into baskets and headed over to visit a friend.....she had volunteered to help....little did she know just how big a job this would be!

First job......lay them all out on their postpaks and record how many needed to be returned to everyone.

I must say ....the fabrics looked so gorgeous all lined up....

...and another shot of the job ahead.....and you cant even see them all in this frame.

There were thousands of them....lol

Then it was the job of counting them all out......we found working them into groups of ten worked the best.

Then I roped Briony in the evening to help me with the parceling up.... I'm not sure why she is smiling.....by this time of night I was almost crying...LOL

My final double checking system.....

and PHEW!!!.....it was all done.

I would love to hear of your progress when your squares arrive.

In the new year...Janelle will be making a little tutorial to help those of you who are new to quilting...it will be some simple basics on constructing and getting started.

If you would like to share your finished quilt...or project Id love to see it.....and perhaps share it on my blog with others.....attach it to an email.....or leave me a comment to a link if you have it uploaded somewhere.

Thanks again for taking part......the response was overwhelming.....

I must admit at one stage during the day I thought...."why oh why....and NEVER AGAIN!
But...its like childbirth....the bad memory has already faded....

ans so I think I will do another at some stage.....

I know there were a few girls who the timing didn't work for this time......so it will give them a chance.

I will have a few more rules though.....and I know I can make the process a whole lot easier...this was definitely a learning opportunity.

So.....Merry Christmas Vintage fabric swappers....

and stalk the postie!

Mardi x

We have often wondered....

2011-12-15T21:42:00.000+10:30

What would Bells look like with straight hair??

We are so used to seeing this mop of curls..... that its hard to imagine anything else...

But then yesterday evening as Briony was straightening her hair....
Bella sat and asked for hers to be done too...
Briony began..... thinking that Bells would soon tire of it...
but she didn't...
she sat patiently....
reminding Briony " to be very very gentle"
and when I asked what she was having done...
she said she was going to look "pretty like a fairy"

So now we no longer have to wonder....
We know exactly what she looks like with straight hair....it just doesn't look like Bella though....
so I think we'll stick with the curls...

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-12-14T23:03:00.000+10:30

Its been a long day....

we are just home from School award and presentation night....

We were so proud of our girl....

She won 4 awards tonight....

including VET student of the year..... more on that later.

This is what I wore tonight....

Singlet - Target basic (I live in these)

Skirt - Big W Emerson brand.

Necklace - Equip

Sandals - Op shop

Cardi - Crossroads last season...

Body - less another 500g

What did you wear today?

December daily 2011 -

2011-12-13T14:20:00.000+10:30

Over the last few years its become a tradition to scrap a December daily album.....

They are the most loved mini albums in the collection...

and my albums from previous years are looking all ragged and loved from lots of handling...

which makes them even more special.

So.....this year I'm plodding along with one again....

I thought Id share a little of where I'm at with it so far....

my pages aren't fancy.....or full of product....more just a simple photo and record from the day.

Have a super week....

Dudley and Grace - in the store now...

2011-12-12T10:19:00.000+10:30

Well that's it folks....

my final update for the year.....

So if you are interested.....

I have added 5 new canvases and 6 new owls......

Here is a little peak....

Maxwell...Mona and Melba........

and Ditzy....Donna and Doozie ....

you can find them at Dudley and Grace.

............................................................................................................................................................

I also wanted to mention that tonight at 8pm Janelle will be launching her Christmas update

at 'The stitched bluebird'

I am always blown away by Janelle's endless talents.....and even though I'm not a Blythe owner...

I cant help but be swept up into how beautiful it all is.

On her blog now....is a look book that Emily has made to showcase Janelle's gorgeous items...

all I can say is....WOW!....Emily....you are going places.....that is awesome work!!

So make sure you are online tonight when it launches....as it will be snapped up fast that's for sure.

Barmera Christmas pageant 2011

2011-12-10T16:51:00.000+10:30

Its one of my favourite events during the festive season....

The good ole Barmera Christmas pageant.

The street is blocked off.....

it fills up with people.....food vans and sideshows....

and we all wait along the footpaths for the parade to begin.

This year was perhaps even bigger and better than last....although Im sure I say that every year.

A lot of the local businesses and community groups get involved...

the floats are loaded with adults and kids alike...

and just as many walk alongside.

They throw lollies into the crowd...much to the delight of the kids lining the sides...... Bella got the hang of it after awhile....and ended up with quite a stash.

Of course Father Christmas is a main attraction....

This year we had an extra treat...

Briony...Jarrad and Hannah joined their work float.....and were dressed in a 'Grease' theme...

They looked fabulous in their bobby socks....and quickly posed for a photo as they went by.

After the parade had passed.....we lined up for the girls to meet with Santa in his cave...

Bella was shy but polite....she answered almost all his questions with "yep"....

Brookie wasnt impressed at all... and so Alex got to sit on Santas lap as well....

maybe next year she will be happier.

Then after dark we all assembled on the lawns around the oval for the fireworks display....

This year it was spectacular.... and the finale was amazing.

(I couldnt take a photo of fireworks to save myself....but I wanted to finish my post with a pic...so please shut your eyes and imagine THE MOST AMAZING fireworks...and thats what we were treated to)

So there it is....a very quick wrap up of a lovely evening....another reason why I love to live in the Riverland.

12WBT - wrap up.

2011-12-09T18:12:00.000+10:30

Those that pop by my blog will know that I've been taking part in the

12WBT program.

To say its been life changing is an understatement......

This photo alone blows me away......this is MY transformation......this is 12 weeks of good nutrition and working my ass off in the gym.......and this is proof that it all been SO worthwhile.

Michelle Bridges.....you and your program ..ROCK!

So....where am I at?

The 12 weeks have ended.....but my journey hasn't....I feel so inspired to continue.....I know I can shed more weight..... I have fitness goals to achieve....and the best bit.....

Mish has given me all the skills and resources I need to do it.

So in this 12 weeks.....

I lost just under 10 kilos ...

and a massive 55cm from my measurements.

I can fit into the smallest pair of jeans in my wardrobe...

I'm lighter than I've been in the last 10 years

I can finally get the rings off my fingers...

I'm learning to run....and I've stopped saying I cant run.....and began believing I can.

I've got my love of the gym back..... I'm there 5-6 days a week...

I love healthy food....and I've found its actually possible to crave a chickpea salad!

I've found foods that I never knew existed....quinoa is my favourite breakfast....

and lentils feature quite often on my menu.

I've taken up Yoga.....it makes me feel strong and balanced.

I am driven by my HRM...

I love my exercise clothes...and the fact I've had to replace them twice in smaller sizes over the 12 weeks.

So.....from here...

I will join again next round....

I want to continue working on my running...

I want to up my weights....and build more strength....

and Id love to lose another 5 - 7 kilos.

Dudley and Grace update

2011-12-08T21:01:00.000+10:30

There just isn't enough hours in the day!

I have such mountainous plans and inspirations......I had sketches.... notes....lists....snippets....

but.....I still don't have enough time to do it all....drats!

So I'm taking the pressure off.... and just going with a small store update this time.

On Monday.....

I will be loading a few more map canvases.......and a handful of new owls.....

then.....that will be it for 2011 at Dudley and Grace.

Thank you SO much to everyone who supported my little dabble into etsy land...

and purchased from Dudley and Grace in 2011....

I cant wait to see what 2012 brings....

Scrapbooking Memories

2011-12-07T13:03:00.000+10:30

Its sure been awhile since I've had a layout published...

let alone a COVER!

I think this particular little girl was pretty chuffed ....

...and my two little superstar cover girls together.....

I am feeling SO motivated to scrap again lately....

and flipping through this edition and the freebie that came with it left me feeling totally inspired and keen.

Stay tuned....layouts are coming.

Vintage fabric square swap.....

2011-12-05T21:39:00.000+10:30

The Post Office has almost needed to add on an extension...

I've had so many parcels rolling up in the last few days.

These are all full of fabric goodness!

I thought it might be fun to see a few snippets of what they contain....

I just chose some random squares from random parcels...and as you can see...

the variety is wonderful.......its so exciting opening each one.....and seeing its contents.

These parcels contain some beautiful fabrics from all over Australia.

and some from the USA as well....

I know Ive included this in an email....

but Id love if you could get your squares sent off in the next few days.....

Any queries just shout.....or pop it in an email.

Have a super week.

Mardi

You could say I'm a little excited.....

2011-12-04T16:11:00.000+10:30

....especially now I've seen this!

Over the last few years I've heard such a lot of talk about the

'escape 2 create' retreats....and now I'm literally skipping with joy to be going along myself.

Not only to I get the chance to meet and hang out with all the gorgeous e2c girls....

I also get to meet Kate and Natalie...

Yipppeee dooo da!

School Prom 2011

2011-12-02T23:02:00.000+10:30

Year 12 Prom night....

Such a special night.....its more than just a chance to dress up and make a grand entrance......it also marks the end of the secondary schooling years.

Tonight Briony...Jarrad and her friends made us very proud.

Here is a quick snapshot of the night.....

(This is for you Donna....I know you'll be taking a look in the morning with your cuppa.)

Although there is a lot of preparation in the lead up....

there is always the last minute rush.....

Poor Jarrad.... broke his collar bone this week.....so he added a custom made black sling to his outfit.....and also had the job of finding a tie to match Brionys shoes....

His Mum ended up stitching one after the search was futile......and she also did Brionys hair beautifully.

(Thanks so much Wendy)

As usual we all gathered together for some pre-prom photos....

Bella loved seeing the girls all dressed up.....and wanted to to be part of the action.

These girls have been friends of Brionys all through her school years.....and it was so lovely that they were all together tonight and able to get these photos.

(I hope they don't mind me sharing)

...and a close up of Bries and Jarrad....

Brent's mate Peter kindly chauffeured them in his car....and Brent joined him....such a nice car.

...and here they are arriving at the Resort Hotel....about to step onto the catwalk...

So there we left them.....

Last I heard was a text message to say that she and Jarrad had won the 'cutest couple' award.

I know they will be having a wonderful night.....and I cant wait to hear all about it tomorrow.

Handmade Christmas....

2011-12-02T13:59:00.000+10:30

Did you join us this year?

The projects have been gorgeous as always....

and although today is the last day of projects......the classroom will still be open.

Ive loved taking part again....its like a real tradition....it wouldnt feel right without an @home workshop to get me in the creative festive mood.

You can see a peak of one of my projects in the bottom centre... snuggled in amongst the other scrumptious'ness.

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-12-01T09:44:00.000+10:30

Lucky Mardi week again.....

I scored another poof.....and its so cute.

Plus books were three for the price of one....so these were $3

and I also got the gorgeous skirt I had on yesterday for my WIWW post...

plus this shorter version.... in colours I adore.

I really do feel very lucky this week.

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-11-30T16:40:00.000+10:30

Well I have to be honest and say....

this is the fifth change of clothes I've had on today....lol

I began in my Pjs...then into my exercise clothes....

Then I showered and changed into a summer skirt and top......then I got a bit chilly so changed into jeans and met my friend for lunch.

I popped into the Op shop on the way home.....and came across this skirt.....and loved it.

I couldn't wait to try it on.....and I knew it would work well with other items in my wardrobe.

So here is my "What I wore for the fifth time today Wednesday"

Skirt - Op shop - Jay jays brand... new to me

Top - Bonds bra singlet - old as

Cardi - Crossroads last year

Sandals - Op shop

Necklace - a gift from a sweet friend

Watch - Scarlet lime online

Body - another 400g loss.....meaning I made my 12 week goal losing a total of 8.6kgs....waahooooo!

I've now set my sights on a new goal !

Please check out some of the other groovers who share their Wednesday outfits too...

Janelle, Yvette

Charlotte, Kylie, Lis, Car, Charmaine,and Jane and Mel and Selina

I have a mountain of clothes that I'm in the process of purging...

I don't plan on needing some of those sizes ever again.

Vintage fabric square swap - update

2011-11-29T12:40:00.000+10:30

I have been getting some lovely parcels of fabric squares arriving in the post....

I am really looking forward to dividing them all up......and posting them back to you all.

So .....just a few reminders.....

Please have your squares posted off to me by the 7th December.

I would love to get this all wrapped up soon after that date......and I don't want anyone to miss out.

I still have a few missing email addresses.....so if you haven't had an email from me ...(its an email that gives you the postage details)......it may be that your email address was incorrect.....or not included.

Please double check and send an email to me via the link in my sidebar.

If you get a chance....please count your squares and include the number somewhere.....

it will save me a lot of counting.

Make sure your squares are clean and pressed...... and measure 6" x 6"

(So far the ones I have received have been perfect....thank you)

I think that's about it for now.....

Oh....I will send an email to each of you when your squares arrive.....just so you know they made it.

Have a super week.....happy square cutting....and feel free to post them off as soon as you are ready.

Ooops...MIA for a few days....

2011-11-29T08:24:00.000+10:30

I hadn't realised it was so long since I posted.....

I had a little hiccup I wasn't expecting....

I was involved in a bit of an accident at work.

I'm always reluctant to mention anything about work...... to me its a no-go zone...but this little incident made the local and national news....so I figured I would touch on it here......and use it as a positive...... to list all the things I am grateful for.

Like the fact that no-one else was involved.

My partner and I were on our way to a job.......there was no patient onboard.....and all other road users managed to avoid us as we can sliding down the road.

I couldn't bear the thought of involving anyone else.

I'm also grateful that my partner and I only received minor injuries.

I have some shiny bruises and needed a tweaking at the Chiro.... my partner who was driving hit the ground the hardest and had a few more sore spots than me.....but all in all....we are fine.

I'm extremely grateful for the members of the public who stopped and helped..... there were a few men who assisted us in getting out of the vehicle.....and I'm very grateful for them.

There were also a huge number of people who rushed over to check our welfare....thanks to them also.

I am so grateful for the wonderful friends and colleagues within SAAS......I have had numerous phone calls.....emails and visitors....all to check on how we are doing.

SAAS management have been wonderful......and although there is the mandatory truck load of forms and paperwork that come with any incident.....they have out our welfare first and foremost.

I'm so grateful for my family.....who have not given me a second of sympathy...we don't do sympathy well in our house...lol

I've been the butt of all the 'rolling and flipping' jokes they can think of....

Like the morning after when I got out of bed.....

...." just roll out of bed did ya Mum?......want me to flip you an egg?"

Haha....very funny.

I'm also very grateful that the Ambulance protected us the way its designed to....

everything inside pretty much stayed intact....so I'm sure they would rather we hadn't tested it out.....but since we have.....its nice to know it handled it well.

Some other things in hindsight.....

When I got dressed that morning I actually thought to myself.....

gee those undies are getting a bit thin.....I hope I don't have an accident and need my pants cut off.

(Thank goodness there was NO pants cutting.)

and my absolute pet hate......

I wish.....and this is something that has bugged me for ever...and now it involves me....

I wish people would think before they take photos of things like this and load them to Facebook.

My kids found out on Facebook before I had even got the chance to phone them.

Imagine the fright they got.....knowing that was my fleet.....and I would have been in it.

I know its useless.......but if I could just jump on my soapbox for a second.....

if you do come across an incident.....before you get your phone out and begin snapping photos.....please offer assistance......if you are not needed.....get out of the way....and please think before loading your photos to social media......these people have family and friends....imagine yourself in the same position.

(That stems from a fury I have after attending many public incidents....

.unfortunately there seems to be no common courtesy these days.).....stepping off soapbox now.

(Oh and I realise I'm preaching to the converted here.....my blog readers would be the assistance offering type.....not the photo loading type.....but its still food for thought and worth mentioning to your kids.)

She survived.....Schoolies 2011

2011-11-23T16:57:00.000+10:30

Schoolies at Victor Harbor....2011

Briony and her friends had been planning and anticipating this for months....

It was the highlight of their final year...

the big bang at the end.

I have to say....
I wasn't too worried......its so well organised these days....and they are good kids....
but the car travel there and back did concern me a tad...
Not so much them driving.....but just knowing how many young ones from all over the state would also be on the road over this weekend..... so you may have heard the huge sigh of relief
when they all arrived home safely again.

They were bubbling with excitement....
it had been a wonderful weekend....lots of memories....experiences....and perhaps not a lot of sleep.

There were 5 in Brionys schoolies gang...
including her boyfriend Jarrad.....and bestie Hannah...they booked a cabin.....and caught the bus to the festival each day.

She also met up with and spent a little time with some of her childhood friends from Bordertown....

as well as bumping into her cousin Brock.

She spoke highly of the respect she had for the 'Green Team' a most amazing bunch of volunteers....
(Here she is in nerd night costume with members of the green team)

The rest of the story is just a million laughs....
and after listening to the stories and seeing the rest of her 160 photos....I know she will have great memories of this weekend for many years to come.

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-11-23T08:38:00.000+10:30

There have been some unexpected benefits to hosting the 'Vintage square fabric swap'

and one of those is..... that I actually got my butt into gear....

and stitched myself a skirt.

I had been hanging onto this vintage linen fabric for ages....and then...

I realised before I could cut up the remainder to swap....

I needed to actually make the skirt first.

So....using this BRILLIANT 'Make it Perfect' pattern...

I whipped it up....and its fabulous.

Its going to be well worn over the summer months I know.

Skirt - made from vintage fabric using a 'Make it Perfect' pattern

Top - Temt

Shoes - Rubi

Thats it folks.....its a no frills Mardi today!

Vintage fabric square swap

2011-11-20T20:15:00.000+10:30

I dont know about you...

but there has been a fair bit of this going on here this week....

I have a growing pile of 6" x 6" squares...

all looking so pretty as they wait to head off to new homes.

Its not too late to join.....

Read about it here

Mardi x

a Berri Merri Christmas....

2011-11-19T15:31:00.000+10:30

Well Christmas season has begun here in the Riverland....as it has everywhere.

It seems to creep up on us earlier and earlier each year!

One of the lovely things about living here is that we have a whole group of small towns all in close proximity to each other......and they all host their own Christmas events...

Thankfully it is coordinated so that dates don't clash.

Last night Berri kicked off with its 'Berri Merri Christmas' event....

We....as in Brent, Alex and the girls + Mitch and Meg +Ian and I

headed over after dinner....

Wandered along the street....bought some do-nuts to share...

.....gave Bella a ride on the merry-go-round.

(Poor Brookey will have to have a turn next year.....she was a little too little this year)

Then we found a spot on the river front to watch the fireworks display.

Bella didn't mind them this year.....but poor Brookey buried her head until it was over.

The waterfall of fireworks from the Berri Bridge was spectacular.

So I guess we have had our first official 2011 Christmas function......the silly season has begun!

Vintage fabric square swap - still searching for fabric??

2011-11-18T17:32:00.000+10:30

This morning I had a lovely email from Lea who runs the

'Little bits of pretty' blog.

If you haven't visited 'Little bits of pretty' before.... or its been awhile since you popped in...

please pop back for a look.

Lea has just loaded some vintage fabric packs...you will get 5 FQ's ....for $10.00

they would be a perfect way to source some fabrics for our quilt square swap....

and every cent of your purchase goes to the Westmead hospital.

(The amazing efforts of Lea always bring a lump to my throat......this is one Mum....who goes above and beyond....and who I have the utmost respect for.....

Lea has shared a little of her story and motivation on her blog.)

So......I noticed when I visited "Little bits of pretty" today that Lea had a set an initial goal to raise $1000.

and she is so close.....lets see if we can help her reach and exceed it.

...............................................................................................................................................................

I've had a few more emails of girls wishing to join....which is lovely...

................................................................................................................................................................

Angie asked the size of my quilt so that she could estimate how many squares she will be needing.

So.... I'm sharing that here for anyone who is interested...

My quilt is huge...

it measures 18 squares x 17 squares....which in 306 squares I believe.

Personally I'm aiming to make one quite a bit smaller than this...gosh...306 is a lot!

Vintage quilt square swap -

2011-11-17T21:39:00.000+10:30

How is everyone going with their fabric hunt?

...or square cutting?

I have a little pile growing on my desk in readiness...

and I also washed some fabric today ready to cut up tomorrow.

I think we have about 26 participants so far....

but its not too late to join in if you are thinking about it.

The swap details are once again below.

Thanks so much for the response so far....here are some further details....and how to get started.

Please sign up for the swap by leaving a comment which includes your email address at the bottom of this post - or alternatively email me direct via the link in my sidebar.

(I have a couple of names without email addresses.....so if you haven't received an email from me yet.....please recheck your address.....and let me know)

Once I have your email I can send you the postage details and any other information required.

I think a month would be a great amount of time for the swap.....

so please join up and then post off your vintage squares to me by the 7th December.

There is no set amount of squares to swap.....

swap as many or few as you wish....you will get back the number you send.

Please include a self addressed and postage paid postbag or similar for me to return your swapped squares in.... its easy to work out the postage......whatever it costs to send yours to me....is pretty much what it will cost for me to send yours back.

Start hunting out some fabric for the swap....please make sure it is clean and in good condition and something that you would love to have included in your quilt....that way.....I'm sure everyone else will love it too.

The squares need to measure 6" x 6" and can be from a variety of fabrics or all the same.

As I mentioned in the earlier post ...my quilt is made up from an eclectic mix....it has a vast array of colours and patterns....so anything goes other than solid colours or unsuitable fabrics...cotton or cotton blend fabrics would be the best.

I had a few questions in my last post so because I'm time poor....Ill add the replies here so that everyone can read them too.

"can YOU come with the swap and teach me to sew a quilt?????'

and

"Step by step instructions wouldn't go astray either for the sewing challenged!!!."

Well.....I can do a lot better than that.....and I'm super excited about this....

because....the extremely talented Janelle has very kindly offered to do a tutorial that will explain how to make the quilt with your beautiful new stash of squares!!!

No excuses now girls!!

"I'd so love to join in but I don't think I have any vintage fabric in my fabric stash. :( "
and

"id love to as well but i don't have any vintage fabric :("

Please don't give up just yet.....there are a few options for sourcing vintage fabric - visit your local Op shops and be on the look out for old sheets, pillowcases or for this quilt try looking for some old clothing that could be cut up.....old ladies dresses or even some old men's shirts are made from gorgeous fabrics.

Ive often found that if you ask at the counter in the Op shop they may have a box tucked away full of old fabric remnants.....dig to the bottom and see what is hiding in there.

You can also source vintage fabric online via ebay or etsy.

I really want everyone to get a chance to join the swap.....so if I can help...yell out.

and this one..

"I would love to be counted in but I'm in the US, could I still participate?"

Yes of course...just make sure you include the correct postage on the return post pack....and we would love to have you join in. (edited to add: Thanks for pointing out that there may be a problem with international postage that I hadnt considered.....I called in to my local PO and it seems it is a tricky one. I would love to still help out though.....so drop me an email and I will see if I can arrange something.)

Finally.... please spread the word...

The more people we have join.....the more lovely squares we get to swap.

Please feel free to use the image from my blog.

Any questions...please shout...

Ive not coordinated a swap before....and no doubt Ive forgotten something.

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-11-17T08:42:00.000+10:30

I popped into our local store yesterday in search of some more fabrics to include in my

'vintage fabric square swap'

and I was thrilled to grab a few more pieces.....

and a cute little patchwork cushion...plus a tiny little red Bakelite jar.

Here are the fabrics in a little more detail....

and the cute little cushion....

One cant have enough cushions hey!

How was your thrifty week?

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-11-16T16:22:00.000+10:30

I'm wearing out my welcome using the family as photographers for these posts.

Briony is tired of it....

(and I don't really blame her....she has taken the majority of them.....and I'm fussy at times)

and Ian... although he obliges ...gives me a million questions...

"What are these for anyway?"

"How many of these photos are you going to take?"

"Who even looks at them?"

and the best one.....

"What happened to the tripod I bought you?"

So yes I'm rushing in late today....

I look frazzled because I am....

plus I'm fielding all his questions....and trying to look 'normal'...

because apparently I'm mimic worthy...

as after each shot ....he had obviously got an overwhelming urge to imitate my pose...

Grrr men!

Pants - new from Crossroads

Top - also new from Crossroads

Necklace - Briony bought for me from Equip

(Yes its crooked..... He rushed me..lol)

Shoes - old...Rubi

Body - minus another kilo (7.2 in total now)

Make sure you pop by these blogs to check for more inspiration....

Janelle, Yvette

Charlotte, Kylie, Lis, Car, Charmaine,and Jane and Mel and Selina

Holy snapping....

2011-11-15T13:45:00.001+10:30

....duckshit!

I actually found some time to Scrapbook!!!

and it felt so good!

....even though I couldn't find half my supplies...

or more the point...

remember what I had...

So......because I often have trouble starting...

I made myself a little kit out of my stash....

and challenged myself to scrap using those supplies....

...and here are the results....

"Promite and Jam"

The journaling was copied straight form my blog post here.

"You eat"

Our gorgeous Brookey and her obsession with eating things.

Thats quite an extensive list of things you eat Chook....it includes...

dead insects....ant nest dirt....flower heads....and pretty much anything small enough to go in.

"All done!"

One of Briony and Jarrad - I still cant believe I no longer have a child at school.

and finally...

"you love Woody"

also with journaling taken from my blog.

I'm all enthused now....

I need to sit and tidy my desk...... hunt out some more hidden supplies...

and scrap some more while I'm still in the mood.

...........................................................................................................................................
edited to add:
Kathryn - the red letters are cut from a sheet of Theresa Collins pattern paper.... it makes them very inexpensive and even better than that......I love the worn look and size of them.

One quilt = so much happiness....

2011-11-13T13:38:00.000+10:30

This morning in my inbox was the most exciting email....

It was from the beautiful Miss Sophie .... from "Her Library Adventures" blog.

It seems my beautiful quilt was voted as the

"Flea market Find of the year"

You could probably hear the squeal from your house....

So....ahhh hum...

Id like to thank....

The lovely Sophie for hosting such a wonderful competition and her regular "Flea market find" posts.

Id also love to thank Sophie for putting together the most gorgeous prize package....

I'm pinching myself that I won.

and an extra little thank you to Jodie......who gave me the push to enter.

Make sure you pop by "Her library adventures" to see all the other gorgeous entries in the

flea market find of the year.

Like....

this gorgeous bedside cupboard

this 50's cotton dress

and these vintage magazines that remind me of my childhood.....

and the most divine 1940's nightgown.

Thanks so much for the votes everyone.

10 things....

2011-11-12T20:34:00.000+10:30

Its been awhile since I made a random family post....

so here goes...

10 things.

# one -

We spent a lovely night out at the club recently celebrating Halloween.

In the past we haven't been Halloween celebrators...but it was such an awesome night....and lovely that we were all out enjoying it together.

I can see it becoming a real family tradition.

The club was decorated in all its Halloween glory...and the girls got into the act with some little Halloween hats. (Well Brookeys was little...)

Bells had a larger one....

After dinner the kids got to go trick or treating.....

Then the evening was finished off by a night ride on the Cobby steam museum train.

We chugged along in the dark.....

and Brookey kept me warm as she snuggled up and nodded off to sleep on my lap.

# two -

Ian and I filled in a mid-week afternoon with some yabbying.

We took Bella for an outing too.

I don't recall ever worrying about my kids as much as I worried about her.

She wore her life jacket the entire time....and pulled the nets out of the water quicker than Poppy could throw them in.

# three -

Brookey loves slides....she climbs up the slide part and then slides down backwards on her tummy.

This huge one at the playground takes a bit of climbing though.

# four -

Shes a bike riding girl.....she has those pedals all worked out....it wont be long and Poppy will be removing the trainer wheels.

# five -

I've been trying to attend here every day.....obviously work gets in the way occasionally.....but I do my best.

# six -

One of the fun parts about finishing year 12 has been the occasions like 'Muck up Day'

The year 12's get a chance to let their hair down and have some fun.

# seven -

One of Brionys final child studies assignments required her to make a small movie - it was a lot of fun being a fly on the wall when Hannah, Athy and Kate came for a visit and to make their movies.

# eight -

I've had mixed success in the garden.... my tomatoes and sage are growing well....and the nectarine looks like it may be loaded with fruit.....but my cucumbers have barely grown and I've sewn two lots of basil and not a plant in sight...):

# nine -

We have been loving the Barmera playspace playground.

Its such a beautiful place to pop for a visit and the girlies always love it...

that is....the older girlies and younger girlies.

# ten -

It didst seem long ago that my baby was starting school.....then she was a senior...and now she has almost finished....well techincally she has....all the work is done....just waiting on results.

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-11-10T09:06:00.000+10:30

Just a tiny little share today....

a couple more piece of vintage fabric to add to my pile....

and this cute little bag....

One thing I do find amusing when I purchase at the Op shop is the variance in the prices charged depending on who serves me. They are a bunch of lovely older women.....some of them are so generous and almost give away things like a pillowcase.... and others are obviously a little more frugal...and so each of these fabrics were $2.00 each (the yellow one is a pillow case....and the purple is an apron).....I don't mind at all...it goes to a local charity....but it I do find it entertaining wondering what each purchase will be worth.

Thats all from me folks..

Handmade Christmas 2011

2011-11-10T06:30:00.000+10:30

Its that time again....

its the @home handmade christmas workshop.

Its something I look forward to it each and every year.

Obviously there are some busy little projects happening behind the scenes at the moment...

and what I've seen so far is just gorgeous.

The workshop will run from November 25th until 1st of December....

and the classroom will remain open until the end of January....so lots of time to create.

Check out the @home site for all the details and to sign up and join us.

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-11-09T15:51:00.000+10:30

I almost skipped WIWW this week...

Its stinking hot...

I had been at the gym....

I didn't feel very attractive at all.

Then I realised I needed to get some things from the shops...

so perhaps I would have to get cleaned up and dressed after all.

Then while I procrastinated a little more...

I did a bit of blog hopping...

and noticed Janelles WIWW post for today...

which inspired me to try and wear a similar outfit.

So....here is my Janelle inspired WIWW

Skirt - Millers....old as the hills. (has been living in the bowels of Brionys wardrobe)

Top - Temt (a gift from Janelle)

Shoes - recent Op shop purchase

Necklace - gift from Janelle (Yes she spoils me ridiculously)

Body - minus another .400g

I did love that Janelle wore a cardi with hers....but its just FAR too hot and steamy here today.

Make sure you pop by these blogs for more inspiration....

Charlotte, Kylie, Lis, Car, Charmaine,and Jane and Mel and Selina

I know Yvette has a cute post today....with a super cute little jacket.

Vintage quilt square swap - lets get started.

2011-11-07T18:46:00.001+10:30

How wonderful to have some takers for a swap.

Just imagine....

soon you will have a quilt just like mine...

and that makes me really excited!

Thanks so much for the response so far....here are some further details....and how to get started.

Please sign up for the swap by leaving a comment which includes your email address at the bottom of this post - or alternatively email me direct via the link in my sidebar.

Once I have your email I can send you the postage details and any other information required.

I think a month would be a great amount of time for the swap.....

so please join up and then post off your vintage squares to me by the 7th December.

There is no set amount of squares to swap.....

swap as many or few as you wish....you will get back the number you send.

The squares need to measure 6" x 6" and can be from a variety of fabrics or all the same.

I had a few questions in my last post so because I'm time poor....Ill add the replies here so that everyone can read them too.

"can YOU come with the swap and teach me to sew a quilt?????'

and

"Step by step instructions wouldn't go astray either for the sewing challenged!!!."

Well.....I can do a lot better than that.....and I'm super excited about this....

because....the extremely talented Janelle has very kindly offered to do a tutorial that will explain how to make the quilt with your beautiful new stash of squares!!!

No excuses now girls!!

"I'd so love to join in but I don't think I have any vintage fabric in my fabric stash. :( "
and

"id love to as well but i don't have any vintage fabric :("

Ive often found that if you ask at the counter in the Op shop they may have a box tucked away full of old fabric remnants.....dig to the bottom and see what is hiding in there.

You can also source vintage fabric online via ebay or etsy.

I really want everyone to get a chance to join the swap.....so if I can help...yell out.

and this one..

"I would love to be counted in but I'm in the US, could I still participate?"

Yes of course...just make sure you include the correct postage on the return post pack....and we would love to have you join in. (edited to add: Thanks for pointing out that there may be a problem with international postage that I hadnt considered.....I will call in to my local PO and check out what options would be available...Im hopeful we can work something out.)

Finally.... please spread the word...

The more people we have join.....the more lovely squares we get to swap.

Please feel free to use the image from my blog.

Any questions...please shout...

Ive not coordinated a swap before....and no doubt Ive forgotten something.

Vintage fabric square swap???

2011-11-04T08:57:00.000+10:30

I have had a little brain wave....

and wondered if anyone would be interested?

As you know....

I was recently very blessed to stumble across a vintage quilt.

and after reading all the lovely comments...I sort of felt almost too lucky....

I so wished that we could all have one just like it!

Then my brain began to tick....

and I thought...

What if I were to host a vintage square swap...

and a group of us were to all swap some vintage fabric squares...

it would mean we would be all well on the way to creating a quilt like this of our very own.

So if you would be interested in participating in the swap

please leave me a quick 'Yes' message at the end of this post....

that way I can judge if its a worthwhile idea or not.

Out of interest...

the squares would be 6" x 6"

they could be any colour or pattern.....in fact that's the beauty of it....its a totally eclectic mix.

They would need to be vintage fabric......and in good condition.

The swap would be simple...

You send me as many as you wish....and you receive that amount back.

(Just include a return postage paid envelope)

Let me know what you think...

and fire away with any questions too.

Have a super weekend...

Mardi x

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-11-03T08:22:00.000+10:30

I haven't had a chance to pop into the Op shops this week....

and to be truthful ....finding that quilt was the most amazing thing ever....

so I'm still basking in that glorious moment..lol

So this week I'm joining in with Thrift Thursday and sharing a little DIY project that I created recently.

I have long admired those gorgeous "Keep Calm......" posters...

so when I came across this tea towel I immediately had visions of it on my wall.

I had the perfect spot!!

It really was super simple.

I unpicked the hems on the tea towel and pressed it all flat.

I measured up and bought the nearest canvas I could in size.

The tea towel wasnt quite wide enough for the canvas so I added a strip of white fabric down each side

then positioned it over the canvas and using the staple gun....attached it firmly ...stretching it as I went.

I really love how it turned out...

and it matches my stool beautifully too.

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-11-02T13:43:00.000+10:30

Here I am.....

back to my regular WIWW posts...

This morning I had the pleasure of teaching a card making class as

part of our local libraries 50th birthday celebration.

I had a lovely bunch of ladies.....and we made some gorgeous little cards....

I loved the way they adapted them and added their own little touches.

Anyway.....

Here is what I wore...

Pants - Target (getting looser)

Singlet - Target basic

Top - Factorie (loving that I can fit in to Brionys tops now)

Cardi - Temt (had it a few years now)

Belt - Op shop

Shoes - Nova shoes

Necklace - a gift from a dear friend

Body - 1.6kg lighter than my last wiww post.

Make sure you check out these other gorgeous chickies who so often join in and play along

Janelle, Yvette, Charlotte, Kylie, Lis, Car, Charmaine,and Jane and Mel and Selina

etzcetera magazine - issue 3

2011-11-02T09:31:00.000+10:30

Gosh Kim.....

Issue three is WONDERFUL....

so Christmassy and inspiring....

I cant wait to sit with a cuppa and have a good read.

...but there is more!!

This month there is a giveaway....

omgosh.....its the most adorable locket handcrafted by

Cat Ivins from Olive Bites Studio

For details on how to win....

pop over to the etzcetera blog and read the details.

"Far out.....check out what I found!!" - Friday

2011-10-28T09:06:00.001+10:30

I'm still pinching myself....

I cant believe I was SO lucky!!

Apparently it had only been on the shelf a few minutes when I walked in.....

Thank you

I always head to the linens first.....

in our local Op shops I have more luck finding linens than anything else.

I spotted it from about 10 paces away....

and almost broke into a jog....

At first I thought it was cot size or maybe single quilt...

Far from perfect.....but made from the most wonderful collection of vintage fabrics....in MY colours...

which made it in my eyes....TOTALLY PERFECT.

I paid my $8.00 and rushed it home....

I didn't unfold it until I got inside and could really enjoy the moment...

Thats when I realised it didn't have any wadding....and so my single quilt was in fact a KING size.

Its divine!!!

Here is is on the line after a long refreshing wash...

and some close ups of the fabrics....

Then I was up early this morning....

Ironed it all neatly...

and tried it on my bed....

What do you think?

I'm still doing the happy dance here.....love it.

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-10-26T09:05:00.000+10:30

I have nothing to share today..... sniff sniff

For some reason I'm just pooped this week....

Its possible I've been burning the candle a little from both ends.... I've had lots of extra shifts at work...

nowhere near enough hours in bed....and I've been dedicating a lot of time to the gym (a minimum of an hour each day....sometimes longer.)

....or it could just be the weather.

So for whatever reason.....

I haven't been online as much......

nor have I been dressed in anything other than gym clothes....uniform or PJs.

So.....I thought Id share a few things that Id LOVE to be wearing today....

if they were mine that is..

These cutest shoes.... ankle straps aren't always flattering when you have cankles like me.....but surely Id make an exception for these.

(source)

This skirt....LOVE it... in fact I love the entire look.....boots....tights....skinny legs....bag..

(source)

This adorable necklace....with cutest little owl....love everything about it.

(source)

This ring.....omgosh.....how divine!

(source)

and this gorgeous dress....

(source)

I am sure Ill be over my slump and back to normal programming next week....

Mardi x

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-10-20T06:54:00.006+10:30

I wasn't even intending to enter the Op shop this week.

But I couldn't get a park outside the supermarket...

so I was forced to park out the front.

Quite obviously there was a good reason for that.....I was meant to pop inside.

... because....these linens were there waiting for me....calling my name.

3 pillowcases for $1.50

and a single sheet for $3.00

this sweet little dish... in yellow....my latest favourite colour....also 50c

...and another look at the gorgeous florals.

Then....from there....I was on a roll....

So I popped into our other store....

and picked up these little goodies.

a sweet little plate for 50c with a cute doily pattern.

This globe.....not vintage unfortunately.... but I still couldn't resist it.

and a cute little $3. dress for the girlies

Ahh...such a satisfying little bit of shopping.....and all completely unplanned.

It doesn't get better than that.

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-10-19T08:54:00.000+10:30

Just home from night shift....

and off to the dentist shortly....fun..ha ha

So what did I throw on this morning?

Jeans - Target - jeans for short people.

Tunic top - JayJays....silly me hemmed it up too short.....but I've decided I can still wear if over jeans.

Cardi - Temt....thanks so much Janelle xx

Necklace - Diva

Shoes - Betts platform wedges

Bracelet - Op shop

So....what did you wear today?

Once again.....dont forget to check on Janelle.....and these gorgeous girls who so often play along...

Yvette, Charlotte, Kylie, Lis, Car, Charmaine,and Jane and Mel and Selina

Funny you....

2011-10-18T08:54:00.000+10:30

I always know its coming....

you are here 5 minutes....

and I will hear..

"Sam'ich please Nan!"

Then if I'm not quick enough you begin getting it yourself....

I hear the pantry and the bread slapping onto the bench....

and next the fridge....and the jars rattling in the door as you select what you are after.

Its always the same thing...

Promite and Jam ....together!

I think its disgusting.....but you love it....funny little thing you are.

Orange Blossom - runner

2011-10-14T13:04:00.001+10:30

Its been on the go for awhile.....

I have plugged away at it....

cutting some pieces here....

cutting the appliques there...

stitching the appliques...

blocking it together....

finishing off...

all done in little slots of time I had available.

So it felt like Id finished the marathon when it was done...

and I thought to myself.....

there is no such excuse as "not enough time".

So here she is...

my Mardi'fied version of Janelle's beautiful Orange Blossom runner.

I adored Janelle's original with its beautifully hand stitched appliques... but mine is a little different.

I used a raw edge rough applique in a contrasting thread...

and I think it turned out pretty OK.

It sure does brighten up the table too.

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-10-13T06:13:00.000+10:30

Briony...Bella and I popped into the local Oppie this week in search of an outfit for Briony to wear to a themed party this weekend.....

We got her two outfits.....which I will share another day....

but...

I was thrilled to pick up a few goodies for myself as well....

It was my lucky day in the fabric department.

....and this cute little bag....

Its only cheapie....made in China.....but I still liked the chevron pattern and colours.

....and a close up of the fabrics...

a yellow pillowcase...

a couple of floral sheets...

a table cloth...

and a remnant of the sweetest blue floral fabric.....I SO wish there was enough for a skirt.

Ohh....and Bella collected a little handful of toys too...

a tiny fairy...

a little Spongebob...

and a weird little Maccas toy looking queen in a castle...

The lovely ladies in the shop said she could have them for free....so I asked her to thank the ladies.

"Thaaaaaaaanks ladies" she said....in the sweetest little voice...

So we all came home happy.

How did you go this week?

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-10-12T10:57:00.000+10:30

Comfy home days....

love em...

White top - Target.....a squillion years old...seriously.

Vest - recent Op shop purchase.

Necklace - a beautiful much loved gift from Janelle

Pants - Target...oldies but goodies

Hair....finally long enough to go up....yay!

Body - .300g lighter this week.....slow but steady progress.

What are you wearing this Wednesday?

The running of the sheep.....

2011-10-11T14:33:00.000+10:30

There are so many reasons why I love living in a small town.....

and one of them is that the community really gets behind things....

and supports....I guess its partly because we live life in the slow lane here in Barmera...

So...any action....gets a lot of interest...LOL

Every year in October the 'Sheep dog trials' are held here on the oval.

For almost a week there is an influx of visitors...

dogs and competitors for the challenge.

Its really interesting to go and watch the working dogs do their job...

and we have often popped down for a look.

This year started with a bang...

They organised a 'running of the sheep' event...

They fenced off the main-street form the top.....right down to the oval at the bottom.

Then unloaded a mob of sheep...

and let them run...

Alex...the girls and I lined up for a good view...

and the girls were thrilled when Poppy joined us just in time too....

Here is a little story of the event in pictures....

The dog is waiting in anticipation of the start....

Here the sheep are gathering in a mob as they are unloaded from the stock carrier.

A fabulous crowd built and lined the street....

Poppy arrived just in time......and Bella filled him in on the details.....like the excitement of the sheep...

and the fact that they had done poo's and it stunk.

Finally one sheep broke away.....and they were off.....

Their feet clacked away on the road....

...a silly news cameraman spooked them....and they came to a screaming halt...

which was kind of good for us....as we got a close up view....which the girls loved.

...finally the cameraman got back on the right side of the fence....and the dog got them moving again...

Brookie was very excited ....then couldn't work out where they had gone....

one minute they were there....and then they disappeared!!

Big thanks to Bob Clarke and his band of organisers for a wonderful Barmera event....

Id love to see it become an annual event...

and it sure made an ordinary old Tuesday just a little special.

Relay for life.... finished....so proud of us all.

2011-10-10T11:33:00.000+10:30

Its over...

and we survived!!

I didn't take many photos at all....

and I didn't get one of myself either....

but I was there.

This year I joined with a group of Keryns friends....and all our girls....

Keryn, our girls and I were all seasoned 'Relay for life'ers'....but the others were first timers.

The weather was perfect......(except the light sprinkling of rain around 5am..)

We ordered Pizzas delivered for dinner....and true to myself....I ordered a thin crust vegie pizza....and

pre-calculated the calories so that I knew I could have three slices to fit my daily calorie total.

I didn't want anything to break my 12WBT resolve.

The entertainment was fabulous.....

the candle light ceremony was moving....

and all the time we kept our team chugging around the oval.

I was so thrilled when some of my work colleagues popped down for a visit....

and stayed to support for awhile.

Even Paul and Andrew who were on night shift came down and walked some laps with me....in uniform...

at around midnight...

I think they did about 10 laps before they left.....I was so proud of them.....of our team.....and the way we always support each other in these type of events.

From 1am it got quieter....

the entertainment ceased....so that the neighbours could sleep....

and the amount of walkers on the track dwindled....but there was always a small group from each of the 20 teams walking laps.

From 1am to 6am.....except for maybe 30mins....Keryn and I walked solidly....

We were joined by Jan and Sue and the girls ...at different times of the night...

but we pretty much stuck it out ...side by side...

lap after lap...hour after hour.

I had set myself a personal goal.....

I wanted to walk at least 30,000 steps....

but as the night wore on....

I realsied my pedometer wasn't working....or had flipped upside down on my pants....

So I stopped using it as a guide....

and began tallying the hours Id walked.

Totaling it up......

I walked close to 14 hours...

with a few little breaks spread throughout the night.....and only shutting my eyes for maybe 10 mins.

By the time the final lap rolled around at 9am I was exhausted ...

but my body was still in auto pilot....

and we proudly plodded out that last lap.

Today.....my feet bones are sore...

otherwise....I feel fabulous.....proud.....

and so grateful for the chance again to be healthy and able to take part.

I was also pretty chuffed when Ian captured this on the cancer council fundraising page...

It was only fleeting...but my name was there...

at the top....

...and this is what its all about.....its about the fund raising....

...all made possible by you.....my friends!!

Thank you...xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Relay for life - THANK YOU !!!!

2011-10-07T09:12:00.001+10:30

The relay begins tomorrow....

and Im as set as I can be ... or at least I will be.

I have even remembered thick socks.....

as I recall last year my feet were so blistered I hobbled the last few laps.

This post is not about me though.....its about YOU!!

Thanks so much from the bottom of my heart......for all the support ...donations....and emails...

I have reached and surpassed my own personal fundraising goal...and that makes it all the more worthwhile.

Tomorrow Ill be relaying for me.....for you.....

and for all those loved ones who are ..or have walked the Cancer path in life.

THANK YOU !!!!!!

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-10-05T14:01:00.003+10:30

Its a little cooler here again today which means I'm back in jeans....

I've just been pottering at home....

but I'm about to head out to the Chiropractor....so I'm dressed for comfort....not so much style.

Jeans - target

Top- Temt (thanks Janelle xx)

Cardi - Sportsgirl from the Op shop

Necklace - a gorgeous gift from my SIL Kel

Shoes - vintage Op shop

Bracelet - beaded watch band from Scarlett Lime

Once again.....dont forget to check on Janelle.....and these gorgeous girls who so often play along...

Yvette, Charlotte, Kylie, Lis, Car, Charmaine,and Jane and Mel and Selina

21 days to getting organised...

2011-10-03T13:49:00.000+10:30

I make myself laugh really....

Im always enticed by an opportunity to turn the mundane into something fun.

I'm not sure what is more motivating....the challenge.... or the organisation at the end.

So when I came across this on pinterest...

I couldn't resist ..

and I've set myself the challenge....

I know I wont achieve it in 21 days.....but Id like to think Ill get it done.

Check out 'a bowl full of lemons' for the challenge details...

First up is the 'Junk drawer'

I'm just not sure which one.....we seem to have accumulated a few of those.

I did however spend a few minutes this morning cleaning out the medicine cupboard.....its all neatly stored in new plastic baskets now.....and all the out of dates have been discarded.
Its nice to make a start.

21 DAY ORGANIZING CHALLENGE

Relay for life...

2011-10-02T11:12:00.000+10:30

Every year I say "never again!"

I usually utter this over and over between 2 - 5 am....

I tell myself that its not fun anymore...

and that next year Ill just donate and leave the painful bit up to someone else.

But...

Its like childbirth...you forget the pain...

and when Relay time comes around.....I cant help myself...

I'm like an eager child with a question in class....

"Pick me....pick me".....I want to do it again!

The pain of the previous years fades.....but chance to be able to participate in something that is so worthwhile just grows stronger.

It it a time to reflect....be grateful....and also extremely thankful that I'm here....and able to walk at all.

Its such a small sacrifice....

and there are so many that would give anything to be able to participate...but cant.

This year I have a couple of special people in my thoughts...

and this walk (for me) is for them.

I've included the official information and the link for donations below....

any donations....even tiny ones would be much appreciated.

Mardi x

I'm participating in the Relay For Life 2011.

Relay For Life is an overnight, community event where teams of 10-15 keep a baton moving in a relay-style walk or run to raise funds for Cancer Council SA. The event brings the whole community together for a night of fun, entertainment, celebration and remembrance.

Every dollar raised at Relay For Life helps Cancer Council to:
• Investigate new ways to prevent, detect and treat cancers
• Educate people in your community about ways they can reduce their cancer risk
• Advocate for cancer control
• Support people during their times of greatest need.

You can help support me by making a secure online donation using your credit card. Click on the link below:

https://secure.cancercouncilfundraising.org.au/registrant/StartUp.aspx?locationID=12659&langPref=en-CA

For more information on how YOU can participate in the Relay For Life 2011, please visit us at https://secure.cancercouncilfundraising.org.au/registrant/StartUp.aspx?locationID=12659&langPref=en-CA
Thanks for your support!

Birthday week...

2011-09-30T21:09:00.001+09:30

September is birthday month in our home.....

In one week we have celebrated...

Ian and Alex on the 20th

Bella on the 25th

and Megs on the 27th..

There has been a whole lot of delicious food...

candle smoke...

and birthday songs..

My day...

2011-09-29T20:43:00.000+09:30

I'm weary tonight...

but satisfied at all I achieved today....

This is a little of what went down here today.

Arrived home from work just after 7am

Began some applique on my 'Orange Blossom' runner (I had been putting it off for a larger time slot...but I figured that is unlikely to happen....so why not just begin)

Helped Briony finalise her Uni preferences.....and sent in her application for 2012

Went to the gym....burnt 630 calories

Shopped for a few essential groceries.

Made myself a carrot, ricotta and tomato wrap

Finished off a couple of canvases for Dudley and Grace

Made a custom order owl

Cooked a yummy chicken dish for dinner

made a beetroot and lentil salad to take to work for lunch tomorrow.

Wrapped and packaged some parcels to go off in the mail tomorrow.

Packed my bag for work including some hand stitching I hope to get done.

and finally vacuumed and cleaned up all the mess I made today.

I love days like today.

Thrifty Thursday

2011-09-29T06:12:00.001+09:30

I haven't been frequenting the Op shops as much over the last few weeks...but I did get an overwhelming urge yesterday....and popped in for a look.

I came across this gorgeous green cardi from the 'Miss shop' its so soft and I can already see it with a skirt and top in summer.

Then I came across this vest/ top from that I thought was super cute....its also a very soft knit in a double green stripe.....and I can see it with jeans over a white top.....or even as is in the warmer weather.

Finally I spotted this Offield Yoga top....its not my most favourite colour....but it will boost my gym wear pile a little....which is a good thing.

Each of these were $5.99.... so I was pretty happy...

How did you go this week?

What I wore Wednesday....

2011-09-28T15:08:00.000+09:30

Puffing in at the last minute with my WIWW post...

I did happen to get out of my gym gear for an hour or so this morning when I popped to the shops...

Pants - Target....good old faithfuls.

Top - Temt a couple of seasons ago..... I've worn it to death....and so has Briony.

Cardi - also Temt....a much loved gift from Janelle

Shoes - I love Billy ... oldies but goodies

Necklace - well this was a favourite from Diva...until I lost the wooden heart that hung from it.....

I still like it...but not nearly as much.

Wooden Bracelet - Op shop

Happy birthday Bella...

2011-09-26T20:24:00.000+09:30

Finally this much awaited birthday arrived...

Bella turned 3

She had been singing happy birthday for weeks...

talking constantly about her 'happy birthday'

and one day when we were shopping she randomly told me that "You cant blow out the candles Nan.....only I can.....its my birthday" ...she is so funny.

You arrived around early in the morning......Mummy and Daddy had given you a buzz and Woody...

Daddy thought Buzz was the coolest....it had lots of fancy buttons.....but you were smitten with Woody.

Well you were.....until Uncle Mitch and Meg gave you a dancing dress and a Mater car.

You were so patient with Brooke.....and didn't mind her having a play with your new toys too.

Aunty Briony gave you the cutest little Lalaloopsy doll and a Barbie with really long hair....

and you also got some play doh and a baby doll that can go in the bath.

You had lunch with your Pa and spent the afternoon at the playground.....

Then it was back to Nan and Pops for dinner.....and your birthday cake.

Mummy made a witch cake that you had chosen from the birthday cake book...

You were so excited.....you called everyone to the table....and when we sang....you sang too....at the top of your voice.....you took a few blows to get all the candles out.

You sure did have a wonderful birthday....and now we get to experience life with a 3 year old....

you are such a dag.....its going to be a lot of fun.

Thrifty Thursday...

2011-09-22T06:49:00.000+09:30

I couldn't resist this gorgeous little 'Guess' jacket for $5.00...the detail on the back is so cute.

I also got 2 sweet little dresses and a skirt for Brookey....I just need to ask her nicely to model them for me.

That's all for me this week....