Jules

Not Keen on Decorations

2010-12-03T16:36:00.003+11:00

Christmas Decorations have never really taken my fancy but last Christmas a friend got me to find my style of Christmas. I found this on the Internet just recently and thought it was lovely so decided to make it. This wreath is the only decoration I have up right now. Maybe I will do some more decorating over the weekend.

Here is something from Stevie too, made from clay this time. Anyone guess what it represents?

Jules

Two little ladies

2010-11-10T15:41:00.002+11:00

Hi there. I know I haven't blogged in like........FOREVER.......but I had to share these two cute little ladies I purchased from here http://www.lynetteandersondesigns.bigcartel.com/
Aren't they adorable????? And sew useful too.

Jules

Strawberry Shortcake

2010-07-30T08:48:00.002+10:00

Did I make this?......................I think not.....................Of course you know who really made it.......

Little One's Birthday

2010-06-29T15:28:00.002+10:00

Little one turned 9 on Sunday. Of course the cake was made by you know who.

She got a sewing machine. A half size Elna. Goes like a dream and does just enough for a young beginner.

She is still too short to reach the floor so Pop's stool is now hers to prop up the foot pedal.

A little ironing to finish

And TA DAAAA!!!!

Her first Item on her own machine

A Headband.

Thanks to Clare of Clare's Craftroom for sharing this lovely Head Band pattern. A fantastic pattern for a beginner, especially a fashionable little girl beginner.

Jules

Why did I do it????

2010-05-04T16:15:00.003+10:00

Well I have started my Polytechnic course for Education Support (which is just a glorified name for Teachers Aid, lol) And boy am I overwhelmed. I have come to say goodbye for now as I just don't have time for blogging at the moment.

I will leave you with this beauty though. Another cake from Steven as promised in the last post. This was for a baby shower. A lovely moist boiled chocolate cake.

One more thing. 'Fame ' the stage show is absolutely phenomenal. If you have the opportunity, you have to see it. 'Jersey Boys' is also very good. Fantastic singing and great old songs.

Bye for now

Jules

and one more cake

2010-04-16T14:30:00.004+10:00

I think Steve needs his own blog...........lol This was a cake for another friend at school.

By the way, his cakes taste just as good as they look. His next cake will be made at the end of April for a baby shower...................stay tuned.

Jules

Last chance giveaway

2010-04-16T10:42:00.004+10:00

Hop on over quickly to Olive Grove Primitives for a chance to win a giveaway for her 1st year

Bloggerversary

Sweet Encounter

2010-03-18T19:33:00.003+11:00

Today I met with a friend for lunch. Lots of us meet with friends I know, but this meeting was extra special for me as I met face to face, for the first time, an online friend. We met through a doll group first then started emailing and eventually phone calls. We both have 4 children around similar ages, we are around the same age, we love crafts and a whole lot of other things in common. Coryn used to live in Melbourne but is now living in Hobart. We met today in Campbell Town, half way point for us both, had lunch and a short stroll around some antique stores until I had to head home to pick up the children. I had the best time. The conversation flowed so easily but the time went soooo quickly. It was decided that we will definitely be meeting again.

And we both had the same idea of giving a gift. Coryn bought me some fabric and A Janelle Wind pattern. The fabric is beautiful and I love the bag pattern. I even like the wrapping paper. I will find a use for that too I am sure.

Thanks for a lovely day Coryn. Looking forward to the next one.

Bye for now

Jules

Taking a different path

2010-03-15T11:47:00.004+11:00

Life has been busy for me lately but it has not included a whole lot of craft at all. I sewed these bibs a couple of weeks ago and the little slippers I made on the weekend. The pattern for the slippers can be found at www.stardustshoes.blogspot.com It is a free pattern. Thank you Joanna Armour . There have been a number of babies either born or still to arrive, around me lately so I have been making bibs, burp cloths and now slippers to give as gifts. The two bibs here are for Tommy Turtle, my favourite baby. The slippers are for a little girl yet to arrive.

This is a quilt in the making for the little girl yet to arrive, I have until the end of June to finish it.

And I thought I would throw this in. Of course another lovely cake made by Steven. He made it for a female friend at school. She was very impressed. He is making a hephalump next for another friend at school. I will post a pic when the time comes.

Well thats it from me for a while again I should imagine.

Jules

2010-02-04T23:20:00.002+11:00

This site sound like it is going to be a lot of fun. Go and visit and enter the competition pictured above. Good Luck

Jules

100th Post

2010-01-30T22:39:00.002+11:00

WOW!!! This is my 100th Post..............YAY It has taken me a very long time to get here but I made it. As a little thank you to you all for your lovely comments over the last 99 posts, I am offering my 'Odd Sock' bag pattern for free. It is not written as a professional would write it though so if you have trouble understanding it then feel free to email me questions. I will be only too happy to help you out.

I hope you enjoy it and a big thank you to Jenny of ELEFANTZ for the idea, encouragement and help to put my little pattern out there.

Just click on the link below and hopefully it will lead you to the pattern.

Tea Towel

Jules

tea towels and dress

2010-01-25T17:06:00.003+11:00

Jenny of Elefantz, has a tea towel challenge for January. All you have to do is make something out of a tea towel. It is a lot of fun. There are so many pretty tea towels now days too.

I chose a tea towel, added some applique and floss.............

and made an Odd Sock bag....................

To hang in my laundry......................
Now all those odd socks have a home to wait in for their mate to return. With 12 feet in this house, there are always socks going missing............lol

I also made little one a shirred dress. So easy and fun to make thanks to Kuky Ideas.

I have two young men, young enough to be my kids I am sure, putting my dishwasher back in, after an unfortunate accident, and I am not sure they know what they are doing. I had better go and supervise I feel.

Bye for now

Jules

New Sewing Machines

2010-01-23T12:27:00.004+11:00

Yesterday I had my two beautiful Nieces come over to learn how to use their New Sewing Machines. They were so excited and by the end of their first lesson they were dreaming of sewing all sorts of things.

This is Jac, Tommy's Mummy, learning to thread her new machine. Jac is married to my nephew Luke.

This is Bonnie pondering...............Now what do I do next?????..........................Bonnie is going to be married to my nephew Michael next year. WOOHOO!!!!

Jac is proud of her sewing and mastering the dreaded button hole stitch........................ Well done Jac.

And here is Bonnie showing off her button fastened by her button hole stitch..........Yay. Good on you Bon Bon..................See Michael.......she can sew.

We had a great laugh. I even refreshed my own memory with a few pointers I had forgotten about. Well done girls. I cant wait until the next lesson. We may even make something. I think the girls will be spending a bit of time at spotlight......................hehehehe

Now onto Stevens things.........................A swarm of Bees.......................Aren't they so cute. Clever boy.

Just a couple of pics

2010-01-18T16:15:00.009+11:00

Well here we are in 2010. Happy New Year to all of you. Here are just a couple of pics of things I have been doing. Not much really.

We demolished our old kitchen.....................................

We have a new one now but it is not quite finished so you will have to wait for the finished pics.

I made an elf suit for Charlie out of an old singlet top, t-shirt and scrap felt. It was for her dancing groups end of year party. I even made the shoes.................................

We had a son turn 18 and of course Steven made the cake....................................

I made Tommy the turtle from an old bedspread and left over fleece,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

And more recently I finally put my 'quilters blessings' stitcheries into a quilt top............................

Now I just have to finish it and send it away for quilting. I had to open a jelly roll which was very difficult to do you know.................so sad. The fabric is 'Natures Chorus'. I thought I had a crisis when I couldn't fit the strips the way I wanted but I just improvised and I love how it is turning out. I never measure anything I just sew then cut so sometimes I have to do strange things that would make a real quilter cringe..........hehehe But that's me........................

Bye for now

Jules

OK! OK!

2009-10-27T14:27:00.004+11:00

Well I won't go then................lol How lovely it was to hear that you don't want me to go. Well I cant promise a regular blog but I will try for a monthly one.

Firstly I have been so busy helping out at the High school and Primary school. The little ones have been doing 4 weeks on craft. The teacher wanted to show them some 'Olden day' crafts. Now we think back to the horse and cart days but these poor little ones think 'olden days' is when their parents were children...................lol.... We soon put them straight. We went on an excursion to an olden day school farm. The children got dressed up in prairie clothes and had to attend class with Mr Grumpy, who acted out the old time school class routine. They had a lot of fun as well as learning how different it was back then.

I have been doing a church doll with them, they made clay marbles, a wooden plane, french knitting and finger knitting. It has been so much fun. They are showing their crafts in assembly on Friday.

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

Little one needed a new ballet wrap so after much hunting for a new one, unsuccessfully, I scanned her old one and made a new pattern from that...............I have never done anything so bizzare before but look how it turned out. It cost me $4.49. I am so pleased with it and so is little one, as it is her 'dance school' colours.

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

Steven, little one and I have also been making 'pin toppers'. They are so much fun. It does pay to read the label though before you buy the sculpey. I thought I was buying white but it was actually transparent. That is why some look a bit strange. But they came out ok.

Stevie's toadstool and cup cake

Little Ones pin toppers................she so clever.

done with transparent even though it looked white to begin with.....silly me. I was making a cupcake but it turned into an icecream.

Teapot and cup done with real white.....hehehe

The cakes are done with the transparent. It starts off white though.

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

And lastly pop over to Claire's Craft room as I made her sewing machine apron which was in this months Handmade mag. Clare has a pic of it on her blog along with some others. The pattern was so clear to understand and was just what I was looking for. She does some beautiful work.

Any way thats it my friends.

Until next time........Take care

Jules

leaving

2009-09-30T15:44:00.004+10:00

This is a pic of the 'eyespy' quilt I made for my great nephew. It was the first time I had ever done machine quilting and I didn't do an awful job. It isn't brilliant, but it's not awful. I like it.

This is probably going to be my last post also as I really don't have anything to blog about. I enjoy reading all yr blogs but I don't have time to do my own and found that I don't do anything of interest for blogging anyway. I have enjoyed reading yr comments and I thank you all for visiting.

Jules

blog block

2009-09-20T20:16:00.004+10:00

Heard of 'writers block'?, well I guess I have had 'Blog block'...............lol.

The last few months have been a wee bit of a roller coaster with sickness with the family and myself, a couple of deaths, a marriage breakdown (not mine) and on the positive side, a new baby. On the 2nd of September my new great nephew arrived. I had to wait until he was 9 days old to see him because of my bugs. It was worth the wait though. He is so beautiful............

This is Thomas.

Little one also had her dancing comps at the beginning of September. She did her very first jazz dance on stage. I was so proud of her. She danced to Strawberry Kisses.

Yep...I made the costume. I really am enjoying the costume making now. Not as scary as I first thought.

Well that's it for now

Jules

He's done it again

2009-08-17T15:24:00.002+10:00

My son never ceases to amaze me. Long story short, I was in charge of buying the sewing teacher, from Steve's high school, a mud cake for her birthday and Steven decided it would be better to make her one. So the night before the cake was needed, he came up with the idea of a messy sewing basket (hers is always in a mess because the students get into it like little mice and muck it up). He made all the sewing accessories and the cake on the Friday night. The next morning he iced the cake and filled it with the accessories. The teacher was pleasantly surprised and amazed. So was I. Steven is just getting too good.

Jules

Musical 18th

2009-08-10T13:04:00.003+10:00

Stevie has done it again. He was asked by a friend if he would make a guitar cake for their son's 18th. He accepted and after looking at the receivers guitar, made a replica. He got paid for this one.

He is so clever

Jules

there were 5 in the bed...................

2009-07-30T10:39:00.006+10:00

and the little one said.........................cough, cough, splatter, spit................lol

5 down, 1 to go. 5 of us have had the flu over the past 10 days. We have never been so ill.

Any way, enough complaining.

10 days ago I had the pleasure of attending my niece inlaw's baby shower. I haven't been to a baby shower in years. It was so much fun. There were four young pregnant women there at different stages. Of course I had to touch all their bellies and say hi to the bubba's. I am sure I must freak some mums out but I just can't help it...................lol

I only had three days to come up with some gifts for our 'mum to be', as my invitation got lost in the mail. Typical Australia Post. Luckily I was chatting to my sister who asked if I was going or I would not have known about it.............lol. Here are the items I made her.

Little one made the card.

snoodle doll

huge bag

burp cloths

On Wednesday when Little one was feeling better, she decided to make the doll I bought for her on her birthday last month. She only needed a bit of my help, sewing around curves and cutting the pattern. She did the rest.

Gather your supplies

start sewing

Stitch a beautiful face and stuff the doll

Introducing...........Ruby.

Jules

New to me

2009-06-25T15:47:00.006+10:00

While away in Sydney, did I mention Rose and I went to Sydney???? hehehe Anyway, Sue, who we stayed with, taught me a crochet technique I have never seen before. It is called 'broomstick lacework'. It involves a very large knitting needle and a crochet hook. I used a 12mm needle and a 4.5 hook and made myself a beautiful scarf. I love this technique and hopefully will do a baby rug soon.

Sue was using a 15mm plastic needle but I found it too slippery to work with so I bought a wooden needle. I could only get a 12mm at the time but I am very pleased with the end result.

Now I have a little story to tell.........................................

Whilst in Sydney, I went off to take a photo and asked Rose to look after my Banana Bread

I turned around from where I was and zoomed in to take a photo of Rose and look what I spied.................................................

Rose texting............Banana bread alone................

A Pigeon lurking...........................

Rose still texting...................banana bread still alone.................A pigeon swooping

'Was that a pigeon?'...........................

"Nah just my imagination.................mmmm Banana bread'...................

Well I never!!!!!!! I should not have worried about the pigeons.....................

Hehehehehe..................Just joking, Rose had her own banana bread but it was so funny. Sorry Rose. Just too funny not to share....................love ya

Jules

Sydney Aquarium

2009-06-20T08:56:00.006+10:00

Since Rose has put the sites of Sydney on her blog, I thought instead of boring you with the same pics I would show my favourites from the aquarium. (I had so much trouble with my camera I am going to go to lessons on how to use it) So pop over to Rose and see what we got up to.

We really enjoyed the aquarium. We entered while it was daylight and came out at dusk......... Here are some of my faves.

A face only a mother could love...................

Who cares about finding Nemo.............I found Bruce........Shmile.......hehehe

HELP!! HELP!!! The suction is really bad in these parts

TELL ME ABOUT IT!!!!!!!

Who is looking at who here????????? Don't you love photo errors.

I love this too..............It's CAMERA FISH!!!!

BOO!!!!

If I stay very still she might go away...........I loved this little man.

I really want to return to Sydney. I loved it. I would like to take the family to see it all.

Jules

P.S Hey Rose, where to next?........we must go first to make sure we can return with the family. It is the only sensible thing to do...............

Annie's arrived

2009-06-18T20:44:00.003+10:00

Marcel over at Aunt Pitty Pats held an Annie swap.

My swap partner Jillian received her Annie this week and today I received mine. She is so cute. Jillian also sent me a pattern, fabric and a card. Thank you Jillian for finding the time to create my Annie. I hope your girls are both well now.

Jillian's Annie to me

My Annie to Jillian

Jules

Sydney

2009-06-17T12:51:00.004+10:00

Rose and I went to The Darling Harbour craft and quilt show. We were happy little photographers . It was the first visit to Sydney for both of us.

These are some of the purchases from the show.

I met up with Sue which was lovely and she even interrupted her lunch to have a photo with me. It was lovely she remembered me from my stay at her B&B last year. It was good to see you Sue.

This is Kathy on the L and Sue on the R. Sue opened her home for Rose and I to be guests for 5 days. We were treated like queens. Sue ran us around everywhere and fed us. Such a lovely family, so friendly and warm. Kathy was also staying with Sue. We all enjoyed our stay.

Read this sign. Rose and I cracked up when we saw it. Rose may have a better view but you can work it out if you look closely. It reads 'Some things can't be shared on a blog' Can you see what it is advertising? I love it.

I will blog again soon with some sites from Sydney.

Jules

I won

2009-06-03T19:41:00.003+10:00

A parcel arrived in the mail today. I was a lucky winner of the 'Cupcake Cuties' pattern Natalie Ross was giving away on her blog. YAY. I am going to make it for Charlie's Birthday.I borrowed the pic from Natalie's blog as I have had to hide the pattern from Charlie.

Jules

Phew.....I can breath again

2009-06-01T20:12:00.005+10:00

May is finally over......................

I have: finished and delivered the quilt. (It was very appreciated)

organised a 7oth and 50th birthday. (Brother and Mother.........a fantastic evening)

guided Steven in decorating a cake (and my he did well)

I made a costume and headpiece for Charlie

She performed today in the beginners Tap solo section. Her very first time on stage by herself. She danced very well and came third.

And I finished my Annie for a swap.

DONE............. and dusted

I stayed very organised though and some things couldn't be done until a day before it was needed. I can't believe how calm I have been. Now to move on to some sewing therapy I think.

Jules

The ugly duckling

2009-05-29T21:40:00.003+10:00

Is really ............. a beautiful quilt.

Remember the ugly quilt?

Here it is all quilted. For a closer look at the quilting you can pop over to Rose's blog to see. Rose quilted it for me. Precious pup she is. She did a fantastic job. Thank you Rose.

It is my mothers 70th Birthday Party tomorrow night and my son Stevie made her birthday cake for her. He has done a wonderful job. He is so clever. This is the first cake he has ever decorated. I can just hear my mum though.........Nooooooo don't cut it!!!! lol.

The photo doesn't do it justice. The white icing is draped over the cake to look like a bouquet of flowers. It is a chocolate cake underneath. Steven made that too.

Jules

P.S Jo he still hasn't taken those lego photo's.

Old things so beautiful

2009-05-22T10:55:00.007+10:00

Sorry this is an image heavy post but I had to share. My mother has been in NSW for a month helping to settle her 86 yr old sister into a nursing home. Aunty Jean knows I love old things like doily's, depression glass, Carlton wear etc, so she sent some things home with mum for me.

The following pictures are of the Pears Cyclopedia 1932 edition. It is such a good read. It has so much in it pre 1932. The sections in it are:

1 Dictionary of events - these are dates from 2234 bc - 1932 of 'important happenings' it says even though it doesn't mention the settlement of Australia................lol

2 Dictionary of prominent people

3 Office compendium

4 Gazetteer of the world

5 Atlas of the world

6 Synonyms and Antonyms

7 Dictionary of Business

8 General information

9 Classical Mythology

10 Students Compendium

11 Wireless

12 The toilet (very funny and interesting toiletry type information)

13 Cookery

14Gardening

15Photography

16Sports and pastimes

17Poultry and cage birds

18Domestic pets

19Ready reckoner(?) haven't looked at that yet.

The book belonged to my Aunty's father inlaw first. It is very English.

The rest of the pics are of doily's embroidered and crocheted by my aunty and other relatives many years ago when they were all starting out in their marriages.

this is a pic of some crockery and buttons

And this pic is of milk bottle and cream jar covers

Can't you just imagine my aunty's sitting together stitching and crocheting away happily, chatting about their daily happenings in 1942 ( thats the year my aunty was married)

This picture is of two crocheted baby bibs my aunty made her boys to wear when they were going to town or out on special occasions. They are just gorgeous. The photo doesn't do them justice.

Jules

Thank you

2009-05-21T18:44:00.002+10:00

To everyone who wished me a Happy Birthday,
Thank you. I had a great day and got lego starwars.......Armoured assult tank and the Republic Attack shuttle.

Steven

Happy Birthday Have....You Must

2009-05-15T14:46:00.003+10:00

That's Yoda talk for

Happy Birthday Steven

My second son turns 15 today.

He is Star Wars mad and loves Yoda...........so I had to make a Yoda for his cake. Yoda speaks backwards apparently. My 11 yr old is home sick today so he told what I should write on the cake.

The birthday person gets to pick what they want for dinner.........................we are having chicken nuggets and chips.....................lol

Jules

Remember the Baby quilt?

2009-05-11T18:56:00.003+10:00

Well here is the little angel I made it for. Sound asleep in her bed. The quilt is just right for the hot days in Qld.

Jules

nature

2009-05-06T16:52:00.004+10:00

Looks like cotton wool in my trees.

On closer inspection I discovered it was webs

This one is gorgeous

rain droplets caught in the web

this must be a teenagers web. It's messy....lol

Take care

Jules

give away

2009-05-01T21:07:00.002+10:00

Hi all
Please pop over to Fiona's blog. She is having a give away. 'Mothers Cupboard' is her blog and it's lovely, warm and friendly. Have a read about her exciting new shop she is going to open.

Have a lovely weekend

Jules

It's a first

2009-04-29T18:28:00.005+10:00

My little Charlie is doing her first Tap solo in June and I made her costume for her. The dance teacher who has been teaching for years, loves the yo-yo's. She has never seen them before. I bought a pattern off ebay but ended up totally changing it. It looks nothing like the pattern...........lol. I needed to decorate it and decided on yo-yo's. I must say I am pleased with it and Charlie just loves it.

Jo.........I didn't muck it up............YAY............lol

Jules

2009-04-23T14:17:00.002+10:00

Well after being together for 5hrs, Rose and I were kicking ourselves for not taking the camera to Pauline's , Calico Crossroads, for happy snaps and for not taking snaps at my place crafting.............not that we did much...................mostly chatted all day...............hehehehe.

So I took some shots of the items I bought at Pauline's. Some ric rac and braid, just because I love collecting them....................some fabric for tiny baby quilts and a lizard for Cam's garden. I tell you, there is something new to look at every time I go to Paulines store. I love that place. I had a really good poke around today while Rose and Pauline did boring stuff..........lol.

And Rose let me pick a pattern too. I really like bags. I am bag crazy. So one day I will make this one but it will be even more special because it is from Rose. Rose's patterns are at Calico Crossroads in Exeter.

Well that was our day. I just thought I would share as I haven't blogged for a while. I am in the middle of making a dance costume. Will show when it is finished.

Jules

productive day

2009-04-13T19:37:00.007+10:00

Today hubby built a bridge and garden between the two garages. We bought two black pots to add to the rocks as well. i took the photo at night so it looks a little dark. It turned out rather lovely though I think.

And what happens to the scraps of timber that lay about during bridge building??????

A little girl grabs a hammer and some nails to build a house............

She had a ball and finished off a lovely little house.

While we were busy gardening and building, number three son planted his own garden. He did a great job.

So it was a busy day. I also cleaned up the patio area and moved the pot plants around. Tomorrow we are going to plant the bulbs.

Jules

another finish

2009-04-05T15:31:00.005+10:00

Kerrie and I went to Rose's yesterday for our 'nearly' monthly get together. A day of stitching, sewing, chatting, laughing.
Kerrie finished two more of her Gardner's journal stitcheries, Rose................hmmmm, poor Rose I don't think she got much done because she was helping me and making tea and coffee.............No i saw her stitching something???????? hehehe.
And I finished my baby quilt that I started months ago. Luckily it is for a cot and the baby it is for is only 4 months old, so it can still be used.

I washed it and now it is all puffed up and snuggly.
I was going to start my 5th block for BOF but I wasted too much time trying to add things to my computer. Now I have a headache. I thought computers were supposed to make life easier?????????

Jules

A busy week

2009-04-03T11:13:00.004+11:00

Well finally a few things were finished off this week.

I got a new shower door, a new bathroom floor, boxing has gone up for the driveway to be finished tomorrow and I finished Lynette Anderson's 'Noah's Ark' block of the month.

I have been going to Rose's for quilting lessons on another quilt I am completing, and felt confident enough to have a go on the Ark. My crosses are a wee bit wonky but all in all I love it. Thanks Rose for your help and for the quilting thread.

Thanks Lynette for offering this free pattern.

Now I think I should make a start on block 5 of BOF. Will do that tomorrow. I will be crafting all day with Rose. No interruptions.

Jules

Block 4

2009-03-26T19:43:00.005+11:00

Block 4 completed. Hopefully I can start 5 tomorrow. I have been working on my Noah's Ark blocks. Two more to stitch and then I can sew them together.

mucking around in Photo shop

Little girls picnic

Jules

my new toy and chocolate

2009-03-21T13:37:00.004+11:00

I bought photo shop and did this today. I made a photo collage. I was very excited, though most of you out there probably already know how to do this. It's fun.

The kids and I also tried the new fad out there in blog and email land. The good ol' Chocolate mug cake. Although it is extremely rich it is also very yummy. We cut it into three but could have easily divided amongst the 6 of us because it is very filling and sweet. What a good idea. Love it.

Well back to the garden. The bob cat is back.

Jules

Finish Friday

2009-03-20T19:49:00.004+11:00

Today I started and finished a bag. I bought a fat quarter bundle 'Ava Rose' from 'The Patchwork Angel' when I went to Qld last yr. I thought today was a good day to sew something with it. I came up with this.

I also finished off this little guy from the Handmade mag. He is so cute.

Enjoy your weekend

Jules

block three

2009-03-16T11:51:00.004+11:00

'ere tis

We went to Evandale on the long weekend to the market and to the grave yards. Hubby wants to research his family tree on his fathers side. We found a couple of graves. The kids really enjoyed the day. We had to wait for Hub while he went to the information centre so the kids played in the leaves. They are very good at entertaining themselves. They very rarely complain about being bored.

Happy crafting.

Jules

dropping in

2009-03-11T12:28:00.001+11:00

to say hi. My NEW computer crashed and we lost everything. Will blog something soon. Hope you are all well.

Jules

Oh boy!

2009-02-23T16:51:00.003+11:00

Have you ever had that 'Why did I bother' day?

I did today. I wanted to finish block 2 of 'Breast of Friends' and I really shouldn't have tried. I am hopeless at maths and my apologies to my grade 10 maths teacher when I scoffed at her as she told me that I needed to know how to add up fractions because one day I might need them. Well today I needed to add up and nothing worked. I was sure I wasn't that dumb..........................HA!!! I am............lol With the help of Rose , a panic call to Pauline and an email to Homespun................................the block finally worked. Thanks to Roses good maths everything added up......................lol I took a deep breath and finished it. What should have taken 30mins to complete took me 2hrs. Oh well, here it is........

And here is block 1 with the borders.

After this I am going to stick to sewing clothes, dolls and bags................No more quilts........................hmmmm.

Enjoy your evening

Jules

this and that

2009-02-23T12:24:00.005+11:00

Today's blog has no theme, just bits of this and that.

Lynette Anderson has asked 'what quilt is on our bed' and so I took a pic of little ones quilt, as she is the only one with a quilt on her bed. I made this for her when she was two. My first quilt. My only finished quilt too.........lol.

I have made a little outfit for Grace. She is such a cute doll. Little one named her. She has had Grace for 5yrs and still loves her. The pattern I used is 'kwik sew'

Little one decided to do some washing for her family of babies.

The following pics are of my second eldest son's art work. Just thought I would share it with you.

Off to finish block two of 'Breast of Friends'. Need to start on block 3.

Jules

Block one

2009-02-16T15:23:00.002+11:00

I have finished the stitching and applique on the first block of Breast of Friends. I had hoped to have the border done today but ended up being out all day.

And this little fellow popped in to say hi, so we rescued him and placed him on the roses. Isn't he cute.

That's it today

Jules

Deadline met

2009-02-08T19:56:00.003+11:00

I decided at the start of the school holidays, I was going to re-do little ones bedroom, before school went back, so she had a reading corner. Well I did it last night and finished making two cushions and a beanbag at 6pm tonight. I only just made it, She goes back to school tomorrow, I added two new shelving units to her room and moved alot of stuff around but I am happy with the outcome. She stayed away last night so I was able to move things around without her complaining. She was wrapped with it.

Double Delight

2009-02-06T19:38:00.003+11:00

Well I started the double delight quilt and made two squares. I got bored and made two cushions. Still a double delight, just not a quilt..........hehehe

Jules

No pics

2009-02-02T20:29:00.002+11:00

We have a new computer. About time......................But now I have to get everything off the old one on to the new one. I feel a headache coming on........................ I may not be around for a while. If you don't hear from me it is probably because I haven't got you all in my favourites yet. My apologies. I will be back in blog land in a couple of weeks. I will be lurking though around the blogs I can remember.................lol

Jules

softees

2009-01-23T18:11:00.003+11:00

I have been sewing deprived lately so I made these two weird creatures for fun. I have no idea what to do with them but I had a ball making them.

A bright elephant cushion.

A crazy cat doorstop, who looks like he has chicken pox.................lol

Jules

I love holidays

2009-01-19T15:43:00.006+11:00

I haven't blogged for ages but have been reading everyone Else's. I have been relaxing with the kids so I haven't done much sewing at all.

I have made this though

The red corduroy actually looks really funky with the inside fabric. Of course little one inherited this one. I am going to make Cam one from blue corduroy and boy fabric.

Then I made these;

I also made this 17 years ago but no one told me that if you fed it, it would grow and become independent............................

Oh my gosh! My big boy is all grown up. He got his P's last Friday. I don't feel old I just feel redundant. He gives me a kiss when he says goodbye and drives out the drive way all by himself. Well done little man. Of course the cake was made by Stevie the cake artist.

Til next time

Jules

I am no good with titles

2009-01-06T20:02:00.003+11:00

I have trouble thinking of a title so I am not having one today.

Sarah invited me to have a look at her quilt top she made at Kerry's workshop, at Calico Cross Roads today. Little one and I headed up there together and had a look around before Sarah and Rosanne arrived. Sarah the quilt top is gorgeous. Well done. Little one and I had a lovely morning with Pauline and the girls. Thanks Pauline for allowing us to loiter in your shop.

I made a sock monkey last night and my 17yo boy loved him. He thought the monkey was so cool. My second eldest and I decided to give it to Mr 17 because he always misses out on my home made items. While he was staying over at a mates house, I sat monkey on his bed with old faithful Ted. They appeared to hit it off straight away. I got big hugs and kisses from Mr 17. He is wrapped with him. He is still thinking of a name for Monkey. He is leaning toward Buddy. I think that is a great name.

Kristine Howard has a fantastic tutorial on how these little fellows come together. Give them a try, they are addictive.

Jules

In a flash

2008-12-29T22:31:00.006+11:00

It's over. Christmas is like a wedding. You prepare for weeks before hand and then in a flash it's over. At least we can do it all again the following year and not gather any more husbands.................lol.

Boxing day was the great 'sports championships' day. A good way to burn off that Chrissie Pudding.

A fun two days had by all.

Jules

Merry Christmas

2008-12-22T09:32:00.002+11:00

To one and all a very Merry and safe Christmas. Have a lovely day and enjoy the little things. Take in the New Year with great anticipation for all the dreams you make that I hope come true for you.

Jules

2008-12-15T20:38:00.002+11:00

My little girl drew and stitched this cushion for her grade 1 teacher. It has taken her 6months but she did it. I had to sew it all together for her but she chose the colours and decided it should be a cushion. It is a shame she is giving it away. It is her first project.

This is my big baby boy at his leaver's dinner with his beautiful partner. They decided in grade 8 they were going together and they stuck to it. Of course I cried................

Thank you to all those who have left comments on my other posts. I am sorry I haven't had the time to get back to you all. Tis the silly season and I can't wait for the holidays so we can all just chill out.

Jules

The ugly side of quilts

2008-12-09T09:49:00.003+11:00

Now I have decided to share this quilt top with you but you need to know why I think it is ugly. I had never pieced before so I decided to join the 'quilt along' that the lovely Amandajean was running. Since I had to follow her fantastic instructions alone, I thought I would use all my old fabrics incase I mucked up. I actually didn't do a bad job but now I have an ugly quilt...............lol. I have decided to finish it anyway. It will be a project for after Christmas and it may have to visit a lady down the river for quilting....................I am going to do another pieced quilt in nice new fabrics. My tastes have changed which is why I didn't mind using my old fabrics to muck around with.

Jules

Oh it's addictive!

2008-12-08T10:06:00.003+11:00

Well I have the bug now. I have decorated the house in my taste of Christmas. Not over the top but way more than I usually do which was just a tree and a couple of decorations under it.

I made this wreath over the weekend. Of course Kerrie and I went to Calico Cross Roads to buy more items. I bought the bells for my wreath. I made the little plum puddings which are so quick and easy. The wreath is made from a weed which grows in the bush over the gum trees and kills them, so hopefully I have saved a tree.

Jules

The tree is up!!!!!

2008-12-03T12:08:00.004+11:00

Well I did it. I got the Christmas tree up on the 1st of December. I burst a couple of bubbles with the kids because they weren't here but they got over it. They still hung their own named decorations up. We don't have an angel for the top yet because we are waiting on little one's angel she made at school. It is hanging in the 'Faraway tree' in her class. I was waiting on the angel before I posted a pic but I found out last night that the angel comes home on the last day of school.

These are a couple of dolls I made last year and the santas were painted years ago but they come out every year. This year though I decided to group them together under the tree and they look much better. Kerrie I think you have converted me.

Jules

Three hours

2008-11-29T21:56:00.003+11:00

Is three hours too long to spend in one shop????? I think not. Not when it is Calico Crossroads that's for sure.

Kerrie picked me up this morning and we headed out to Pauline's shop. Pauline made us a lovely cup of tea and that was it. We were there to stay. I think we covered every inch of that place. While we were there who should pop in but Sarah and Roseanne whom we met only last week at the bloggers get together. It was nice to catch up with them.

This is what I bought

I should have taken a pic of Kerrie's purchases too but I forgot. We then came back to my place and sewed all afternoon. We were joined later by the rest of Kerrie's family and had home made piazza's for dinner. The kids had a good play and are all now tucked up in bed, which is where I am heading. What a great day. Thanks Pauline.

Jules

Silly Season

2008-11-28T09:53:00.004+11:00

Not much sewing going on around here. I have been running around organising our busy lives. In the next two weeks we have pool party's, dancing school party, fancy dress (starting tonight), Macca's ball, School leavers, presentation night, cinema evening etc etc etc. Can you see the $$$$ adding up here and I still have to do the Christmas shopping.

To save my sanity though I did manage to finish a Christmas table runner by Lynette Anderson. I am not crazy about Christmas decorations. I am the last to put up my tree and the first to pull it down but this year through Kerrie's encouragement I have been looking more closely at what my style of Christmas decorating might be instead of leaving it to the children. I am having a turn this year. Thanks Lynette for your pattern in Homespun. I really liked it and enjoyed making it up.

Jules

P.S The owl was very well received by my little fluting friend. Apparently she sleeps with it now.

Ross

2008-11-24T12:54:00.004+11:00

Well I am back. These are the gifts I received at the Tassie Bloggers day at Ross on Saturday.

Little gift bag from Jo

Little gift from Hugs and Kisses

Secret Santa. I picked well. I love these colours.

On a different note. I made the owl below for a little girl I play flute with. Miss Kaitlin. She is a wonderful young person with heaps of personality and very gifted. I made the owl for her for Christmas to say thank you for being a hoot during flute............

It is from "Handmade" (vol 25 no. 8) designer, Annalisse Wakenshaw. Now of course my daughter has seen it so I have to make her one too. That's ok though because it was fun to make.

Jules

P.S Thank you to those who have commented in past posts. I am still so new at this I forget to say thanks.

A quick post

2008-11-24T09:31:00.002+11:00

Just a short one this morning before I head off to an interview with my son and the Newstead College people. It is all so different now. I am going in blind. The college rules have changed, the outlay has changed and my poor son is a guinea pig. Part of being the eldest I guess.

Anyway, I would just like to say thank you to Jo for a great day at Ross. I really hope it ends up being a regular get together. I really enjoyed meeting everyone and Kerrie did too. She actually was in a lot of pain on the day but I think she did a good job. Kerrie had a wisdom tooth out only a couple of days before hand so could not talk much.

I forgot my camera on the day but Rose, Sarah and Christine all have photos so pop over to have a look. They are in my side bar. I will post again with photos of the lovely thoughtful gifts I received on the day. We all got a gift from Helen. Thank you so much. Jo also made up little goodie bags for us all too. Thank you, Thank you , Thank you to everyone who attended. It was a fantastic day.

Anyway must go or I will be late.

I will post again later.

Jules

Cup cakes or art?

2008-11-13T18:28:00.005+11:00

Made by my 14yr old son at school. So yummy too. Only have the photo's left.

Jules

Meet Lizzy

2008-11-10T15:23:00.003+11:00

Here is Miss Lizzy named by my daughter. I have finally come up with a pattern for a dress that fits. Even underwear. Green and purple are my daughters favourite colours and so of course those are the colours she chose for Lizzy.

Jules

YAY!!!! I did it!!!!

2008-11-07T15:30:00.004+11:00

Those of you who know me, know I make dolls who then sit in my cupboard bald. I have trouble with hair...............lol But today I decided to be brave and attempt the hair on my 2nd waldorf doll. I am very pleased with it and she is too. Now she just needs a nice outfit and a name. Hmmmm.

I also decided to join the 'Noah's Ark" block of the month. I have done four so far.

Now its off to drum lessons...........for my son not me

Jules

Time to sew

2008-11-04T14:21:00.003+11:00

Not much sewing going on around here lately. We spent all weekend in the garden again. I have been doing a little project now and again though. I have started a cot quilt for a little girl. I have been making it up as I go along.

I bought a jelly roll months ago from the states. I liked to get it out, have a look at it and then put it away. I decided that as lovely as it looked the strips would look better made into something so I made a bag, I showed in a previous post, and now the cot quilt.

see ya

Jules

Sue's give away no.2

2008-10-29T20:37:00.002+11:00

Another give away from sue This one is 'Field of Flowers' and is just as lovely as the last. Take a look at her site.

Jules

Sue Daley 'Port Roses'

2008-10-28T13:52:00.004+11:00

Sue has a give-away. Pop over to her site and have a look around. The pattern to win is called 'Port Roses'. Sue has a pic of the quilt made on her site. Just beautiful.

Jules

2008-10-25T13:24:00.004+11:00

Good afternoon all. I was just reading some blogs and found that Helen from Hugs n kisses is having a give away of five of her new patterns. Check them out on her site. They are lovely. Here a couple of pics to entice you,

Jules

Gardening

2008-10-20T16:30:00.004+11:00

Our back yard looks so fresh and homely after all the hard work DH and I did last week. Hub did most of it with all the digging, lifting and tree trimming. I planted and directed.

Quilters Blessings

2008-10-19T12:38:00.006+11:00

I thought I would take a close up picture of each of the 'Quilters Blessings" Stitchery blocks. I have only done 6 so far. I still have 4 more to catch up. Please go to Capricorn quilts to see other blocks stitched by the other participants. Amazing how differnt each block looks when done in different colours.

A Jules

What I have been up to

2008-10-17T08:52:00.006+11:00

Lynette Anderson is running a competition on her blog well actually Hugo and Felix are running it. Pop over and take a look. It's a lot of fun. If you have completed any of her designs apart from the 'Noah's Ark' and 'Here kitty' head on over and join in. I did this stitchery years ago. It was my first attempt at Stitchery and it kept me going on with others all these years later.

I have been stitching these lovely blocks so generously supplied by capricorn quilts . They are so cute and I can do them at night resting in the armchair. Pop over and take a look at her blog.I did this stitchery ages ago and only found it again when cleaning out my UFO's. I forgot where I had got the pattern from so decided to throw some material around it and make a bag. I love bags. Low and behold I found the pattern yesterday and it is supposed to be on a bag anyway........lol It is different to mine though but that's ok. I am very pleased with my first attempt of making a bag of my own.

These thread catchers are everywhere and just another item I am hooked on. I found a pattern in a magazine but it had pockets on it so I just made mine with out them. I made the bag a bit smaller too as I don't need it too big. My straps don't come off either. I was happy to sew them in.
Fabric baskets are all the rage too. Love them. You can find the tutorial for it here

Be careful though.....they are addictive.

So I have been doing some sewing. I would like to do more of course. DH and I have been working flat out in the garden this week. We are going to be making a pond as we found tadpoles in the old pool. The kids can't wait for the tadpoles' new home so they can watch for frogs. I can't do any of the lifting or digging so DH has been quite exhausted at the end of the day. He is doing a great job though. More on gardening next time.

A Jules

Where does the time go?

2008-10-16T21:27:00.007+11:00

OH My Gosh!!!! It has been three months since I last blogged. I didn't think I wanted to blog anymore but here I am. I just had to share. My DH took me to Eumundi in QLD for my 40th birthday. We stayed at 'Kindred Spirits' B&B owned by none other than Sue Daley the designer of Patchwork with Busy Fingers. Long story but Sue invited Lynette Anderson to have breakfast with us. I felt like I was meeting my favourite rock stars. Two beautiful, talented ladies.

They both gave me signed patterns for a birthday gift. I won't forget my 40th thats for sure.

While we were there Sue directed us to 'The Patchwork Angel'. It is in an old church. Just beautiful. Of course I had to buy some goodies there.

I also purchased two patterns from Sue. I quite like the idea of paper piecing.

DH: Thank you Darling for the best and most memorable birthday. I love you with all my heart. Just when I think I couldn't love you anymore, I fall in love with you again.

A Jules

Mondayitis

2008-07-21T19:16:00.003+10:00

We couldn't get moving this morning due to a very icy morning. We managed to stagger out of bed and do our daily jobs, then off to work and school. I still had one home today with this awful cold. I think he will be fine tomorrow although it's his cross country and I don't think he will be competing, especially if the wind is as icy as it was today.

Well I must admit I have come to the end of my tether. Today I felt house bound and weary. I really feel for the kids being sick but I think we are at the other end of the tunnel. I was so cranky and down today I took time out to sew. I haven't sewn anything for months. This little bag is a pattern from a bag ladies group I am in.

It was just the thing to pick me up. It was quick and easy and I love it.

These three little bunny's are for three of my children. I enjoyed knitting these. I finished the last one about a week ago. I knitted them at night as my escape time. Now my 16 yr old boy wants one in the Sydney Swans colours. I will start that one when I am feeling a little less stressed.

Jules

'A Family who knits together, stays together'

2008-07-17T17:20:00.007+10:00

I had three children tucked up in my bed this morning with the sniffles. They are all on the mend now though. It was an awful day here today so I just let the kids veg out. I took this photo of them each doing their own style of knitting. Garter stitch, Finger knitting and French knitting. So cute.

I have also been looking after my friends family pets while they are away on holidays. There are 13 of them...............pets that is. A Dad, a Mum and 11 babies. They are all rats............. Yes rats. The babies arrived here not walking and with eyes closed. 1 week on they are scuttling around very busy, wearing mother Magie out eating constantly. They are quite amazing to watch. My children have lost interest in them as they prefer an animal that likes to sit on your lap or shoulder. The rats are too busy and just run away.

The babies

A very tired Mummy

Dad looks on

Our pets

Marshall

Kelso

Georgia

And of course there are the girls and bless their feathers one has started laying again........But I don't have any photos of them on my computer.

Jules

NURSE!!!!!

2008-07-15T12:36:00.006+10:00

I am still playing Nurse to my family. It has reached Hubby and myself. The two little ones also have a week off school for world youth day. I also have an extra at home with the cough and sniffles.

I did manage to finish the second knot doll but I forgot to take a picture of it. I took these pics though........................

The Twins

Erin

Fraser

They are so tiny. Little one kept hogging them all day though.

I am going alone next time so I can have lots of cuddles.

It was a girls day out. Little one, my sister and myself last Saturday went to the raspberry farm for lunch and then spent the afternoon feeding the twins.................Well little one did anyway. My sister and I couldn't get a look in..........................lol

Well back to the arm chair with my tissues and strepsils. Time for a nap I feel.

Jules

Weekly visits

2008-07-03T16:35:00.003+10:00

I am thinking I may just do a weekly blog as these days I am just too busy to sit at the computer to write, this week being no exception.

Monday I was busy playing nurse to two sick children

Tuesday I was busy grocery shopping and fixing a school problem

Wednesday I was nurse again

Today was quite pleasurable. I met Jenny for a cuppa in the morning. The whole point of our meeting was missed but that is ok because it was nice to just sit and chat. We chatted for 2 1/2 hrs.................lol Thanks Jenny. A most enjoyable morning. I then was spoilt even more by parting ways with Jenny to meet my lovely husband for lunch. Great food, company and conversation. He returned to work and I spent some money. Oh dear. Never mind.

Tomorrow I hope to get another knot doll finished as I am going to see the twins on Sunday.
This one is for Fraser.

Right now I have four miserable children drinking hot chocolate and snuggled under fleecy blankets sniffling and coughing. So I think chicken noodle soup and scones might be a favourite tonight for dinner. I know they won't feel like vegies so I won't even bother trying. Either soup or eggs on toast.

Jules

WOW!

2008-06-25T17:13:00.006+10:00

It has been a whole two months since I last blogged. I am still not sure about this. It is much easier to journal with pen and paper I think. I like to blog though to share projects I have done. I really enjoy reading other blogs. What a time waster they are..............lol A great time waster though. Well any way I would like to share a picture of a Waldorf inspired doll I made with the very generous help from Jenny. (littlejennywren) Pop over to her blog if you have not visited her before. Thanks Jenny for teaching me, and the other ladies, how to make these dolls.

I am now making two knotted dolls with the same Waldorf style for my cousins twins. They were born on the 19th June. Mum has tried for 10yrs to have a baby. IVF failed a few times and this was her last attempt. She and hubby were blessed with a boy and girl. Two little angels. I will post a pic when I have permission to do so from my cousin. This is a practise one I made.

Lastly, I gave the old digital to little one to play with. Of course she filled the memory card but she took some nice pics too. These are the ones she wanted to blog.

Things to do in the holidays when it is raining.................Make a dolls house. If you look carefully she 'borrowed' a couple of pieces from my dolls house...........................

Exploring.....great shots Charlie

Dilly Dally at Entally

2008-04-20T20:12:00.007+10:00

Today my friend and I took our daughters on a girls day out to the picturesque Entally House. The entrance is just so peaceful and I could imagine us driving up to the homestead in our full gowns in a horse and buggy.

We started with a picnic before entering the house. On the way across the lush green grass the girls spotted a toadstool or two and decided the faeries were preparing for a party tonight.

Unfortunately camera's aren't allowed in the house but I can tell you it was like stepping back in time. The house was built for Thomas Reibey ii. He was the eldest son of Mary and Thomas Reibey who married in 1794 and they traded in Sydney, with India, China and around the Pacific and of course to Launceston or Van Diemen's Land as it was known back then.

Mary was actually brought to Australia as a convict. At the age of 14 dressed as a man she was caught stealing a horse. After her sentence she met Thomas. Mary was one of the original 5 shareholders of the Bank of NSW which is now Westpac and she appears on the Aussie twenty dollar note.

It was all so interesting. I won't go on and on though. After touring the house, we ventured out to the gardens. Just breathtaking and with the onset of Autumn, the colours were awesome.

There were also horse buggies and carriages in the barns. There was a wash room, tool shed and blacksmith shed.

The girls had a ball and they amazed me at how interested they were in the history. Little one can't wait for show and tell this week and wants me to print off the photos for her to take to school. It was a lovely day, so relaxing, and we all took our time to dilly dally about. It was such a joy to spend leisure time with the girls and my buddy. Just what she needed.

Jules

Summer Days

2008-04-01T11:24:00.005+11:00

Not enough hours in a day and now they are about to get shorter. Where have the lazy days of summer gone???? I want them back. My days are filled with providing a warm, loving, restful home which I love to do but after school we are all scattered. Why do we get busy in the colder months? I would much rather stay at home in the evenings and eat hearty casseroles and snuggle up in pj's with the family and play board games. It seems the older my children get the less time we spend together. I don't like it.

My eldest has a female companion now, I am not allowed to call her his girlfriend, they 'aren't going out'. Could have fooled me. So of course they spend a lot of time together and he works on weekends.

My home bod child has decided to take up taekwondo which is great but I miss him two nights a week. He is my buddy. Number three child and I do music together but in different groups. At least I have him to myself for an hour in the car. We have great chats and we are going to spoil ourselves one music night and go to Mac Donald's for dinner after class.

Little one does tap on the weekend but she gets left behind at home with either one of the bigger two until Dad gets home from work. He then baths and feeds her and tucks her in. They are getting some special time together. She reads to him at bed time.

Well that's a run down on our lives. Busy, busy, busy. I will have to get some little projects ready in bags to grab while running out the door or I will never get any crafting done. If anyone out there would like to craft once a week or fortnight, I think I need to join you..........lol

I know my kids love what they are doing and I really don't mind running them around. I am very proud of their achievements, what I am sad about is, there never seems to be any family time now. Oh Summer, where have you gone?????????

Jules

Empty Nest

2008-03-27T13:58:00.003+11:00

I have had an empty house for three days. My three little ones went to my sisters shack for a holiday. I must say I didn't like it very much. My eldest boy was hardly here at all either. It's different when they are at school all day. I go about my daily business preparing a nurturing home for the children to return to, but with them gone for two nights and three days, I feel quite inadequate and miss them heaps. I rang them every day. I am pathetic aren't I. Oh well, they will be back today. I can't wait.

I made these about a week ago and I still haven't painted their shoes on. I will though......soon.

These patterns are free at http://www.bowls-n-annies.com/ Pop over and take a look.

Bye for now

Jules

Lazy day

2008-03-21T14:22:00.003+11:00

We started the day off with pancakes smothered in maple syrup. Morning tea consisted of an Earl gray for me, coffee for hubby and cordial for the kids and some crackers and cheese. Meanwhile the house filled with the smell of rising sweet dough. Then as this was baked the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg and sultanas floated through the rooms. By 1pm we were having freshly baked, home made, Hot Cross buns. Yummmmm!!!!!!

Now the kids are reading in their rooms, Hubby is snoring on the couch (resting after the big game last night.......Go Tigers) and I am on here blogging. The rest of the day is just to chill out and rest up. Fish for tea tonight, though I will just be eating vegies.

Happy Easter to all.

Jules

54 When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, "Surely he was the Son of God!"

confucious or Aussie slang??????

2008-03-20T20:31:00.004+11:00

My friend and I were talking today about the things adults used to say when we were kids. She remembers the saying 'acting like a pork chop' and used to wonder how a pork chop acted???????
I remember hearing my nan telling my mother "You are going through the change of life darling." As a 6 year old I really didn't want my mother to change and watched her carefully for any sign of difference, which I was ever so pleased nothing happened..........lol
The other one I remember hearing at a young age was "Your fathers the bread winner around here." What????? Did he win bread?????
And have you ever been told to move out of the way, your fathers not a glass maker...........?????? I was a very confused child..........lol
Have you ever wondered how these sayings ever came about????????

A very blessed Easter to you all.

Jules

Competition

2008-03-18T22:01:00.002+11:00

Go check out Old Red Barn Co. Click on the blog site. They are giving away, yes that is right, GIVING away a quilt. It is very nice. You have until tomorrow to enter. Good luck. Don't forget to have a look at the shop too.

Jules

Sewing

2008-03-18T08:57:00.002+11:00

Well it has been nine days since I last blogged. I have been busy though. Unfortunately for two of those days I was flattened by a migraine. For those of you who suffer from them know just how debilitating they are. I am back on my feet now and have lots to show you.

The first item is an apron for my mum for Easter. It is so bright and has lemons all over it. The photo doesn't do it any justice. She will love it. I added black lace just to give her a laugh. (supposed to be white) Why cant she look a little sassy whilst cooking.............lol. The pattern is from 'Hand made' mag, volume 25 no. 5. They have a section on vintage aprons.

This little skirt is a so quick and easy to whip up. It was a free pattern off the net but I can't find the link to it. I will keep trying later. Little one loves it of course. I am making her skirts and pinafores for winter as she doesn't like wearing trousers.

Another pinafore for little one. The daisy chain is a pretty mint green but it doesn't show well in the photo. My photography was bad this week. Sorry.

Lastly I have added these photos of a couple of visitors who came and feasted on the greengages. There was a red one too but he was very good at hiding. They were so lovely and stayed for ages while the kids played around them. They didn't seem bothered by the noise of the kids at all.

Well that's it. I am still working on my cot quilt. I have stippled two sides already. It is funny. My hubby laughs cause I get a real swing up while I am doing it. I can't sit still, I have to sway with the pattern.......lol. I should put some music on so at least I would look like I am dancing. It is not too bad for my first attempt. I am pleased with the progress and that's all that matters.

Off to visit the Easter Bunny now. Not many more sleeps to go.

Take care all

Jules

Ol' Mac had a farm

2008-03-09T19:50:00.009+11:00

It was off to the farm today for a birthday party. The children had a wonderful time feeding the animals, cuddling babies and eating party food. I am sure they will sleep tonight, including the animals.

This poor little guy was just tuckered out.

Jules

Girly girl

2008-03-08T20:57:00.004+11:00

I finally managed to start and finish little ones pinafore. I can't believe I did it all in one day. I had it all cut out and ready to sew this morning and this afternoon after a girly shopping day, I sewed it together until it was complete. I am so lucky she is still at the age of loving dresses especially ones i make for winter. Little one is a real girly girl.

I also took this photo of some Lilly's from my garden. They smell Divine and are just so beautiful.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend (long one for Aussie's)

Jules

Thirsty Thursday

2008-03-06T20:13:00.002+11:00

I named this post 'Thirsty Thursday' only because I drank soooo much coffee today I don't think I will be thirsty for another week. I visited with Rose today under the impression we would be working but sat all day chatting with never ending coffee cups. Thanks Rose for showing me stippling, meandering and that other thingy......lol I had a lovely day really. We both just needed to breath today.

Jules

Beautiful Sunday

2008-03-02T16:48:00.004+11:00

Being a child born in the late 60's, I was brought up on 60's and 70's music which I still love and enjoy. One particular song I remember my mum blasting through the house was 'Beautiful Sunday' by Daniel Boone. I loved that song and knew all the words quite young. Today was a 'Beautiful Sunday' the second day of autumn.

All 6 of us got out into the yard for a huge clean up. We had been blessed this year with a fantastic abundance of fruit, which of course is just about over. We raked up the greengages and put them into a box, provided bags and put them out the front for anyone to help themselves. Of course they didn't last long. It was lovely to see people stopping to collect some.

Then it was inside for lunch and then a baking afternoon with lots of helpers. We baked caramel slice, bread, banana choc chip muffins and chocolate balls. Oh, and jelly for dessert. The house smelt so yummy. That should keep the school lunches looking interesting for a week.

I need to cook dinner and am quite exhausted from todays workings so I am thinking an easy chicken cabonara would go down well.

Thank you my little helpers for your very hard work today.

Right off the subject now. I bought these gorgeous fabrics from the states. 'The poetry collection' and don't know what style of quilt I want to do. Any suggestions????

Till next time

Jules

The aroma of memories

2008-02-29T21:01:00.004+11:00

I haven't been well this week. An old injury really decided to hit me. The cold winds haven't helped. I have layed very still for the most part of the week. I did manage to do the groceries, very slowly and painfully but I am pleased I did them as now I know the family can satisfy their hunger without having to feel like they are bothering me to fix them something.

Whilst shopping, I went to the local fruit and vegie shop where I got a waft of lemon scent. The combination of a cold morning and lemon scent reminded me of my Grandparents house. They lived in Melbourne and I always remember the cold foggy mornings, going to the outdoor loo early in the morning and smelling the beautiful fresh lemons on the big old lemon tree. Every memory of my visits with Nan and Gramps come flooding back whenever I smell lemons, especially on a cold morning. Smell plays a big part of remembering.......................... Cedar Hairspray fills me with warm memories of my Nan getting ready for town. She always had to look her best to go to town. The aroma of strong Tea with milk wafts past me with fond memories of Gramps bringing in the morning cuppa to listen to the 6 o'clock news before they started their day. Velvet soap takes me back to their kitchen as they both washed up together in the trough, the dishes sitting in a yellow plastic tub so as not to waste water. The smell of gas allows me to see the old kookaburra stove where Nan baked date scones. I love my Nan and Gramps and miss them dearly but all I need do is smell a lemon and I am back there with them in their little cottage in Melbourne.

Nothing to say

2008-02-27T17:35:00.002+11:00

"If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." This is a line from the movie 'Bambi'. It isn't that I haven't had anything nice to say but I really haven't had anything to write about at all this week. This line is one I teach in my family though. I would like to think my children remember this line when they are not at home. There is enough nastiness in this world I think without my family adding to it. You can have an opinion on something but really if you are only being nasty then keep it to yourself. So anyway after that blerb I still don't have that much to talk about. I will go now and dish up tea. Take care all.

Jules

Stepping out of the boat

2008-02-23T19:19:00.006+11:00

Well I had the best day today. I attended the 'Stitching Summer Memories' workshop. I drove there all by myself and for those who know me well know that I am not a confident driver. I also had to find the venue on my own so with the help of the good Lord above I had a safe trip there and found the venue with ease.

I am also very shy and entered the room all alone. Instantly I felt at home. Everyone was so warm and welcoming. Thanks to Lynne of Cranberry Crafts for hosting this workshop and for letting me know about it.

Our goodie bags were like finding treasure. The ooh's and ahh's around the room were witness to the wonderful items we received.

These are little samples and a pattern and material to make a draw string pouch.

These are patterns from Brenda Ryan and I purchased some gorgeous hand dyed stranded cotton made by Mini -Blessings, Jo-Ann Johnson. Brenda was there to help us out and demonstrate her iron on transfers. Brenda also taught me a new stitch. Thanks so much Brenda. Her embroidery is incredibly beautiful.

These three patterns are from Kerry Gillespie a very quiet gentle lady. I didn't have time to chat with her unfortunately but she made her way round the tables to help out. I can't wait to make her dolls.

These patterns were given to us by Christine Book. Amazing. I am a shy person but when Christine is around she makes conversation so easy. So bubbly and cheerful, full of joy. Thank you Christine for a fabulous day. I learnt so much from you.

Well there you have it, the longest and most exciting post I have done. I am going to another one of these workshops. I met so many wonderful and very talented ladies. Thank you to all of you for a wonderful day.

Jules

Top done

2008-02-22T21:12:00.003+11:00

Well I finally got the top all stitched and sewn together. Next week I will attempt to back and quilt it. What do you think? I actually really like it.

Jules

Little creatures

2008-02-22T13:26:00.004+11:00

I am pleased to introduce the newest member of our family...................Kelso

He is so cute. Just a baby. I purchased him from Old Macs farm. They had already started to hand train him so he is quite tame. The kids love him.

This is Marshall

Another tiny creature in our family of pets. Also adored by the kids.

Georgia

A bigger creature but very much loved. She is only 2 yrs old and so much fun.

Jules

A summers day

2008-02-19T18:42:00.004+11:00

What a beautiful day today. Autumm is approaching but summer is still sending down it's rays from the hot sun.

Hubby had the day off today which was fantastic. After doing some running around town we had lunch at the food hall in the city then headed home. While hubby had a Nanna nap, I did some stitching on a boy cot quilt I am making.

Hopefully I will have this finished in another week or so.

Jules

Writings

2008-02-17T20:16:00.003+11:00

Another weekend over. Very easy weekend. Saturday Hubby had to go Melbourne and the eldest went to an all day/night concert. The other three relaxed all day infront of the play station which I never let them do, but I really felt like stitching and so we sat in the loungeroom all day together. They enjoyed the playstation, i enjoyed stitching and we all had great laughs and conversation. We then ventured to the supermarket and the kids picked out their own tea for a treat. Today was a very lazy day again for the kids while I caught up on housework, school food and ironing. Not a very interesting post really but never mind because I am pretty sure I am writing to myself anyway........lol

Jules

Love

2008-02-14T20:55:00.002+11:00

Happy Valentines day to whoever may come across my blog. My Hubby and I don't celebrate this day as (now this will sound corny) we love each other every day of the year and don't see the point in all the fuss. But to those who do go all out, we hold no judgement.

I finished of a baby quilt today and tomorrow I plan to sew all day making a baby quilt for a teacher who gave birth to her first child a week ago.

That's it today.

Jules

This and That

2008-02-13T17:32:00.001+11:00

I took my two older children to lunch today just as a last treat before their school year starts. I told them to decide where they would like to go and they settled on a lovely spot by the water which surprised me. The meal was lovely. The company fantastic and fun. I don't get to spend much time with my 16yr old as he is always off with his mates or at work. He is my hard child. He is a good boy, never in trouble, loved by all parents and teachers, just gives us curry at home. It was nice to spend a couple of hours with him.

Before I took the boys to lunch I drove the little ones to school and then headed off to the op-shop. I was on the hunt for a moka espresso pot. I only want it to put in a photograph. I found half a one but I guess it will have to do.

Here are my other finds. The little dress was too good to leave behind. It looks brand new. My little girl loves dresses. I also bought some easy reads for her as she is struggling a bit. I am not too worried as yet as I think the light will switch on very soon. The other is a biscuit press I just had to have. I love the old box. All the bits are there too.

Till next time

Jules

They survived

2008-02-12T16:15:00.000+11:00

Well the first and second days of school are over. They survived and so did I. I had all day in the city by myself today and did not buy one single thing........I think I was waiting for little voices to say "ooooohh, can I have that", or "Wow that's cool, can you buy that for me mum". But I didn't hear them. I met hubby for lunch and even he noticed how lonely we both were. Oh well, I am sure I will get used to it. In couple of weeks I will have so much going on I will have forgotten all about the holidays...............

Jules

Back to school

2008-02-10T17:48:00.000+11:00

Well the weekend was all about the boring bits of getting ready for a new school year. Saturday was housework day then checking off the school list. We packed the books and hats into the school bags, made sure uniforms still fit and sorted through smocks until the right one was found. The kids dislike this part as much as I do so after that was lots of mucking around together outside.

Sunday started out early in the garden. Hubby found an inchmans nest and got bitten twice. So we had to abandon that until the ant poison started to work. Then after a coffee it was back into it again. Number three son helped out. He loves gardening and really is a huge help. You know how some kids just get in the way but you have to pretend you are greatful? well not with Cam. He is very good at it and never gives up. We have to drag him inside to have a break........lol

This afternoon was a muffin baking time and then they were individually wrapped and put into the freezer for lunches............I really don't want them to go back. Perhaps I could home school them..........hmmmm rethink..........I don't think so. My hat goes off to those who home school. I would kill my kids if they were under my feet all the time.....lol Not really .....But I couldn't do it. I do love the holidays though. No routine and lots of togetherness and relaxation. I wouldn't be disciplined enought to teach them, and they know it.

I finished off with chicken kiev for dinner and ice cream for dessert. Now bath and bed.......I just don't want to think about tomorrow..........

Jules