6 Metres

This blog has moved.

2008-10-21T13:35:00.001+11:00

It was time for a name change and a new look so I have I have moved my blog here.

Please visit me.

Treasures.

2008-10-12T15:04:00.002+11:00

We bought the kids an IKEA storage box for any treasures they might collect on our trip.

They loved finding things to go in them on the beach, and in the bush.

Bex and a lie down.

2008-10-11T14:46:00.005+11:00

Oh my gosh! Did I say I wanted to be one of those mothers? One who does crafting with their kids?

THREE HOURS!!! it has taken Sarah and I to make a bag for one of her friends. A bag!!

We should have stuck with one of these that we have made countless times before, but decided to try a new pattern from this book.

That gathered pocket thing, topped with velvet ribbon was tricky, and the strap took forever to turn inside out because it was so skinny.

I think I need a lie down now.

So lovely..

2008-10-11T09:02:00.003+11:00

It is so lovely to be back in the world of craft blogs. I have spent hours over the past few days going through all my old favourites, and discovering a few new ones.

Motherguilt has been rearing her big ugly head as well, as I look at all the wonderful things others have been doing with their children. I used to be one of those mums before I got sick and went to bed for 10 weeks....

We will get back there again in time.

The kids did manage to find a few arty/crafty things to do while we were camping for 6 weeks though.

A giant turtle made on the beach...

Woodcarving and drawing by the campfire...

A shell necklace...
Some more sketching...

The boys are at cricket so Sarah and I are off to Spotlight to look for inspiration, and get some supplies for a few pressies we need to make, and then there is my planned 'Handmade Christmas' to start thinking about. Maybe the craftiness is on it's way back.

Five months...

2008-10-09T10:57:00.003+11:00

A lot can happen in a person's life in 5 months.

I have been absent from the world of blogging and have returned to read of sorrow and joy in the lives of my blog friends. For one friend in particular there has been incredible tradgedy and heartache.... Rach I am so sorry.

Where have I been all this time?

In hospital, then in bed for months, then to Hong Kong, then part way around Australia on a long camping trip, all the while carrying a little person inside my tummy, who initially made me very sick, but is now making me pee all night.... and smile. He/she should be making an appearance in Jan.

I am hoping to get my crafty mojo back and get back to blogging about it all. Jo

Steamboat.

2008-05-20T13:02:00.002+10:00

My mum gave me her old steamboat ages ago, and it has been gathering dust (decoratively) ever since.

My friend Lily who is Chinese was asking me about it last week when she saw it gathering dust on my shelf, and I had to admit that I have never used it.

She gave me a few instructions, and I began to warm to the idea.

Fast forward to this morning when I checked out a blog my sister recommended to me and BAM, the universe is pointing me in the Steamboat direction again.

I will HAVE to give it a go now. Stay tuned.

Hare Krishna Food.

2008-05-19T19:20:00.002+10:00

We are having a bit of a dahl phase in this house, (a.k.a. "Hare Krishna Food").

You can eat it cold as a dip with poppadums, rice crackers etc..., or hot as a meal, with anything you like added to it.

Last night we ate it with spinach stirred through and it was YUM, even for Dave who hates spinach.

I use my mum's recipe:

Dahl

1 cup red lentils
1 tbs oil
1 red onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
2 tsp red curry paste
2 cups water
1 tsp salt

Wash lentils under cold running water and set aside to drain

Saute onion and garlic until soft. Add spices and curry paste and stir for a couple of minutes.

Add lentils and stir for a couple more minutes.

Add water and salt and bring to the boil.

Lower heat and simmer gently, stirring occasionally until water is absorbed (about 15-20 mins).

ENJOY!!

And enjoy the price even more. Red lentils cost about $2.00 per kg !!!!

Woodwork.

2008-05-15T09:30:00.002+10:00

We bought a bag of wood scraps on the weekend (we paid $4, is that expensive for scraps??).
The kids have had a great time with them.

Sarah proudly took her creations in for school news.
What else do 5 year old boys make??
We have only had one ice pack on one thumb so far.

Wow, 100 posts already!!

2008-05-08T13:21:00.003+10:00

I started this blog last year as a place to share my crafty spoils with friends and family. It seems to have evolved into something else, I am not really sure what. Maybe this blog has a bit of an identity crisis going?

A little bit crafty, a little bit foody, and a lot of just my daily life as a mum/student/wife/friend/member of society....... So maybe it is just, me.

Very soon this will become a 'homeschool blog' too, of sorts. Yes, we are going ahead with the crazy idea and pulling the kids out of school at the end of this term.

We are totally at peace with this, and are really looking forward to our new lifestyle.

The kids are so excited and can often be heard saying, "When we homeschool, can we learn about XYZ...?"

I have been reading lots of books, blogs, and chatting to other homeschoolers, and am preparing my 'program' for our official Board of Studies visit.

I was thinking a giveaway would be approprite for my 100th post, but I am in the middle of massive Uni assignments, so might have to leave this til' a bit later.

Thanks to everyone who reads and comments, it is lovely.

Oh, and I would like to introduce a brand new blog of a friend of mine in NZ, Jen. She is one of the most talented crafters I know. Enjoy.

Perfect Pesto

2008-05-05T09:53:00.001+10:00

This recipe is from my friend Kim who is a wonderful cook. It works every time, and you can vary the ingredients a bit.

I have started using macadamia nuts instead of pine nuts because of cost, and food miles etc...

I also used pecorino this time instead of parmesan. You could also use walnuts and rocket, or anything you like really.

Recipe:

1 cup basil firmly packed

30g pine nuts

2 cloves garlic, crushed

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

pinch salt

60g grated parmesan

The best part is the eating, usually on crusty Italian bread, or stirred through pasta.

Blue...

2008-05-02T16:30:00.000+10:00

Not my team.

Red...

2008-05-01T18:52:00.000+10:00

I ran out of time to take some photos today, so here are a few from the archives.

Orange...

2008-04-30T16:14:00.000+10:00

Yellow....

2008-04-29T10:23:00.000+10:00

Green......

2008-04-28T08:46:00.000+10:00

Colour Week begins today care of Curious Bird.

Today is of course, green.

Found in my cupboard, Wasabi peas. The low fat, healthy snack that the kids won't come and pinch off me. A win-win situation really.

I really don't have that many green things in my house I have decided.

March.

2008-04-26T09:20:00.000+10:00

Jonty had been begging us all week to go and watch the Anzac Day March in the city, we were not that keen, but relented. (He really loves anything to do with the army, and often begs us to send him to 'Military School'...)

We are so glad we did, it was a great experience and the kids were mesmerised by all the marching bands and 'diggers'. They watched and waved their Aussie flags for 2 1/2 hours!

We finished up the day by going to Yum Cha in Chinatown.

Genetics.

2008-04-22T22:12:00.001+10:00

I may have found a reason for my huge collection of Children's Books, and my uncontrollable urge to buy more.

While researching my great-grandfather CH Bertie who was a well known historian, author and librarian at the Mitchell Library, I discovered that he actually established the first public lending library for children in Australia in 1918.

See, my darling husband, it's genetic, and I can't help it.

Here is what I bought earlier in the week from my favourite bookshop.

And Sarah and I had our sewing machines out today. I made a cammo hanky for Jonty (at his request), and this blanket for Matt to snuggle under while watching TV downstairs when he wakes up long before the rest of us. Polar fleece backed with flannelette.

We also had a go at this 200 piece puzzle, but didn't quite finish it. They were not really getting into it, I never really liked puzzles as a child either, must be those genes again.

(Yes, Jonty does have an orange face. It is a leftover tiger face from the fun day he went to yesterday. )

The previously mentioned oranges....

2008-04-19T12:40:00.001+10:00

The previously mentioned cubby...

2008-04-19T12:14:00.000+10:00

The entry is not a very lady-like affair.

It seems I have nothing to blog about other than my children's holiday fun.

This may be because I am ignoring the other parts of my life.
Dave left for Melbourne this morning for 5 nights!.
I have an essay to write on Sonnet 55, current word count, zero.

On a brighter note, my SIL and I are hosting a dinner party tonight. I am making Nigella's Chocolate Orange Cake for dessert. At the moment I have whole oranges boiling on the stove and the house smells divine................

More school holiday fun...

2008-04-17T15:31:00.001+10:00

A beaded ring kit from Nana Jan.

A Puppet Theatre which they made with no help or input from me.

Imaginations are running wild here at the moment.

Matt and Sarah came to me today and asked in all seriousness whether they could cut a hole in the wall to make a secret passage.

Um... no.

They have settled with making a cubby in Sarah's room. I can hear the 3 of them upstairs having a great time 'decorating' it.

Jonty has been doing a lot of song-writing lately too. I am hoping he will let me 'film' one.

Stay tuned.

School Holidays.

2008-04-16T07:53:00.000+10:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I love the school holidays?

No, really I do.

I love not having to rush in the mornings.

I love how the kids hardly ever fight.

I love how we get to relax and just "hang", as my friend Katie would say.

Sarah has taken up finger knitting in a big way.

We learnt how to do it from this youtube video.

She made this for me yesterday and I love it!!

All settled.

2008-04-06T15:25:00.001+10:00

I have a week long Res school for Uni this week. I flew up to Armidale this morning. There is something about Armidale skies, they are always full of turbulence, (and I always close my eyes and think I am going to die.) There was a sweet old lady next to me who was very comforting, but I prefer to have Dave's arm to dig my nails into.

I am looking forward to this week of English and hoping the pieces of the puzzle will come together a bit for me.

Dave and Nana Jan have the kids well taken care of so I don't need to worry about the home front.

Congratulations Nana Jan!

2008-04-03T13:31:00.000+11:00

A BIG congratulations to my mum who handed in her PhD Thesis today!!!!!!!!!!!!

She has worked so hard over the past few years on it, and is an inspiration to my sister and I , and her 11 grandchildren. (No, my sister does not have 8 kids, some of them are step-granchildren, although 8 kids would be nice.......)

So, well done Mum. We will have the champagne on ice for when you arrive on Saturday!!!!!!!! You should be so proud of yourself.

Shameless plug....

2008-03-31T13:46:00.000+11:00

Madison Lane is a new online Boutique for children. They have some gorgeous and very unique things, including exclusive rights to some overseas designers.

Above is the 'Elodie and Elvis' Ferris Wheel coat. Too cute!!

Why am I shamelessly plugging Madison Lane??

It is my cousin's new business, and she is lovely, and I want her business to go well.

To do list for this week.

2008-03-30T21:23:00.001+11:00

I have permission to lay around reading all week. How cool is that!!

Before I leave for my Uni Res School on Sunday I have to:

1. Finish 'Pride and Prejudice' (about 40 pages to go, should finish that tonight??) I also watched the BBC mini series over Easter, and loved it.

2. Start and finish 'Great Expectations' (all 500 pages of it, gulp)

3. Finish 'Othello' (about 3/4 to go!!)

4. Read 'The Crucible' (actually I have borrowed the DVD off our minister, so will "read" along while I watch the movie)

Not even thinking about all the poems, and 'To the Lighthouse'; they can wait.

Goings on.

2008-03-30T20:13:00.000+11:00

The majority of this weekend has been spent looking at cars.
I feel exhausted, dirty (Parramatta Rd will do that to you), dazed and confused.
The result? No car, and no idea what to buy and how much to spend.

Why is it that manufacturers make cars with lots of seats, obviously to carry lots of children, but don't put proper seatbelts in all the seats?? How do you choose which children get to be safe, and which don't??

After eating crap all weekend, tonight I really felt like a big veggie fix.
Here is my favourite thing to make at the moment, a big tray of roasted veggies; capsicum, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, whole garlic cloves, and red onion (which I am totally addicted to and put on EVERYTHING). Served on pasta with a big dollop of Dave's pesto, YUM!!

Sometimes I add olives and fetta, but didn't have any in the fridge today. We may have our own olives soon, our tree has finally started to produce after 5 years!! They (all 3 of them) look so beautiful.
And lots of footy happening around here. Dave is teaching the boys how to tackle, and they are loving it.
Matt had another trial game today, and he walked away relatively unhurt. A happy mother here.

The Great Easter Egg Hunt of Mount Victoria .

2008-03-28T14:23:00.000+11:00

Poor neglected blog.

2008-03-28T10:15:00.000+11:00

It has been almost 2 weeks since my last post..... My excuse? Life.

What a lovely surprise to come home from being away over Easter to find that Rach had nominated me for a 'You make my day' blog award. Thank you Rach.
I love reading her blog too, and am totally inspired by the gorgeous/funky/unique bub's and kid's clothes she sells in her Etsy Shop, she is my applique inspiration!!

OK, so now I get to nominate a few others for this award.
Crazy mumma for her inspiring food forest backyard and her general eco crunchiness.
Bec for her gorgeous 'Magic Faraway Tree' bags and her food porn pictures.
Sara for her funky dreads (that I wish I had) and her totally inspiring principles and beliefs.
Melody who lives in amazingly beautiful place and homeschools her little treasures.

Valerie.

2008-03-17T14:29:00.000+11:00

Just found out that Amy Winehouse has done a cover of one of my favourite songs, Valerie, by The Zutons. I am not a big AW fan, but I actually kind of like it.

What do you think??

The Zutons

Amy Winehouse

Home...

2008-03-17T12:16:00.000+11:00

That was a bit of a sooky post last night. You will be pleased to know that Dave walked in the door about 5 mins later.

I am used to him travelling a lot, but it doesn't usually happen over the weekend, and I had a scary night on Friday night, with a strange man knocking on the door at 11.30pm, then I think he came back later and tried again, but I didn't go downstairs to check......

Waiting....

2008-03-16T20:51:00.000+11:00

I am sitting here waiting for Dave to get home from NZ.

Easter Hats.

2008-03-14T19:59:00.000+11:00

It's that time of the year again soon, Easter Hat Parade!!

Annette, Belinda and I decided to join forces and do them all together this afternoon. We (and the kids) had fun and we were very impressed with our creations.

Here is Sarah's. Less is definitely not more.

Contemplating........

2008-03-13T21:08:00.000+11:00

Dave is in NZ, the kids are all asleep, and I am left to contemplate some big decisions (while waiting for my Bengali Chai to steep).

Why am I feeling so uninspired about Uni at the moment, amongst other things?

There is a lady in my course with 5 children (that she homeschools), a sick husband and she is doing 3 subjects!! What have I got to feel stressed about?

I would love to stay home all day making things like this.

Happy Birthday Sarah darling!!

2008-03-13T20:47:00.000+11:00

It was Sarah's 8th Birthday on Monday. Time flies.....

She wanted to do a Build-a-Bear as her present from Dave and I.
She actually made a Cheetah, called it 'Sophie' and had lots of fun building and dressing it.

This week......

2008-03-08T14:27:00.000+11:00

Matt started Rugby League training.
With all the gear on he looked the part, I hope he doesn't get hurt.
He wanted to be a forward and the coach said to him, "OK what's 12 plus 17?". Matt responded immediately,"29!", and the coach told him he was to bright to be a forward and made him a back. True story.
I got a new sewing book I ordered ages ago.
And made this from it yesterday at Friday Craft.
I obtained the application forms to register for Homeschooling.

I am powering through Pride and Prejudice and Othello, and starting to enjoy the poetry a little.

Love this one by Dylan Thomas;

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

2008-03-04T11:53:00.000+11:00

I just tried the muffin recipe on the back of this packet and they are delicious.
Very moist and sweet.

2008-03-03T21:03:00.000+11:00

Had to post a picture of Matt in his new glasses. He was not very keen on getting them, but is so excited now by what he can actually see. I am sure he thought it was normal for things to be blurry.

I am struggling through this poetry. The title of the textbook says it all, "SEVEN CENTURIES of Poetry in English".

Does anyone know what this poem is about??

The Sea Anemones Gwen Harwood

Grey mountains, sea and sky. Even the misty
sea wind is grey. I walk on lichened rock
in a kind of late assessment, call it peace.
Then the anemones, scarlet, gouts of blood.
There is a word I need, and earth was speaking.
I cannot hear. These seaflowers are too bright.
Kneeling on rock, I touch them through cold water.
My fingers meet some hungering gentleness.
A newborn child's lips moved so at my breast.
I woke, once, with my palm across your mouth.
The word is: ever. Why add salt to salt?
Blood drop by drop among the rocks they shine.
Anemos, wind. The spirit, where it will.
Not flowers, no, animals that must eat or die.

2008-03-03T09:08:00.000+11:00

We are back from our weekend away at Craigieburn in Bowral. The place was so lovely and we were well looked after. Dave (who organised the conference) was pleased with how it all went.

We waved everyone off yesterday and hung around for a few more hours, had a sleep, then went for a walk where we found these tiny ducklings and their parents. Papa duck was not too happy with Dave getting up close for a photo. He chased him quite a way which was very funny to watch. You can see him starting to charge in this photo, at which point Dave gave up taking photos and ran!!!
A big thank you to our babysitters Aunty Lisa, Grandma and Grandpa. They did a stirling job dealing with Matt sleepwalking (into Jonty's bed) and throwing up (in Jonty's bed) in the middle of the night. THANK YOU!!!!

OK, back to reality. I have about 8 poems to analyse today, and Matt is home from school as he stomach is still not 100%. Of course the Uni website is down AGAIN!!, but I think I know what I am supposed to do.

Oh, and I started reading Pride and Prejudice on the weekend which is not nearly as scary as I thought it would be. For some reason I thought it was going to be in 'Ye Olde English' , but it is quite readable.

2008-02-28T13:28:00.000+11:00

The Green Smoothies are going well. Today was apple, bluberries and baby spinach. Very yum, but a very weird colour, murky browny green, still technically green though.

Friday Craft is off tomorrow because Dave and I*, are going away for the weekend to the Southern Highlands. Should be lovely.
*And about 30 other sales staff and partners.

I will leave you with a short clip of the boys and Houdini. Have a great weekend.

Sigh of relief...........

2008-02-26T10:35:00.000+11:00

After a heart to heart with Dave last night I have decided to drop back to part-time at Uni. The semester has only just begun and already I am feeling very stressed. One of my subjects, Coasts and Catchments, seems to require a 3 unit HSC geography background which I don't have, even though I did the 2 prerequisites last year. So I have flicked that, maybe next year if I can read through alot of stuff over summer. I am also going to drop Development and Change in Asia and maybe do it next year.

I am left with English, and Creative Arts in the Classroom which will be hard enough on their own, lots of reading!!! I feel so free...............

I still need time for Bible Study prep, Scripture, looking after my family, and of course Friday Craft.

Mick Thomas

2008-02-25T13:45:00.000+11:00

Mick Thomas from Weddings Parties Anything used to be the love of my life until I met Dave.

(He is not the one in the Hawaiian shirt, just so you know.)

I have loved this band since I was 19 and have been to see them countless times. I know every word to every album.

So happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just bought Dave and I tickets for the WPA Reunion Tour on April 5th.

Check out this for a look at them in action.

Green Smoothie Challenge

2008-02-25T12:02:00.000+11:00

Today is the first day of the Happy Foody Green Smoothie Challenge.

Mum and I are doing it together. Here is what I used this morning; apple, celery, carrot and parsley. It was very yummy.

Busy week.

2008-02-25T11:31:00.000+11:00

This week has been extremely busy. On Wednesday night a group of us went to see Hugh Mackay speak about Australian Society, and his new book. It was so interesting to hear him talk, and I really warmed to his optimism. My mum (who is also a sociologist) loves him so I got him to sign a copy for her.

Saturday Night we went to Jazz in the Park and listened to the Peter McDonald Quintet. Such a lovely way to spend an evening, connecting picnic rugs with friends, eating and drinking and listening to great jazz. (sorry about the fuzzy photo)
On the craft front, only a little bit happening. I finally finished these two tops for Sarah and she left one at a party on Sunday, hopefully it will return.

Houdini

2008-02-19T13:04:00.000+11:00

We have given 'Eggweena' a new name, Houdini!! She keeps getting out of the chook pen to go and lay her egg in the garden. Here she is hiding from me. Jonathan is the only one brave enough to pick her up and put her back in the pen.

This morning I went and had my free sewing lesson that came with my new machine. I now have a better idea about all the different feet, button holes, sewing stretch fabric, and overlocking - my machine has an overlocking stitch, how cool is that!!!

I also went and had my eyes tested as I am having trouble reading and threading needles. Old age is creeping in, I am having some reading glasses made, will post a pic when I have them.

2008-02-18T20:26:00.000+11:00

When I was tucking Jonty into bed tonight he said to me, " This home would not be a real home if you didn't live in it".

Awww, he is such a honey.

Ankle update.

2008-02-18T20:14:00.000+11:00

Here is a picture of Dave's foot this afternoon, he has had a few worried people asking after it. He went to the physio this morning who is convinced it is only sprained and told him to walk on it as much as he can. No more waiting on him and changing his ice packs........Yay!!

Ouch!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-02-17T14:15:00.000+11:00

Here is a new picture of Dave's ankle. He has decided to go and get it looked at in the morning.

It's all fun and games....till somebody sprains their ankle.

2008-02-16T20:45:00.000+11:00

We were having a lovely time down at Coogee Beach this afternoon, catching up with friends from the UK, until Dave sprained his ankle playing footy. OUCH!!!!!
This photo is a few hours old, his ankle is now twice this size. I wonder what colour it will be in the morning?? Dave is being very brave, keeping the ice and beer regime up.

Happy Birthday.

2008-02-14T21:18:00.000+11:00

The birthday pressies for Zoe and Lucy are finished. A library bag with matching pencil roll. I also made them a personalised Charlie and Lola colouring-in book (from freebies on the net). They are flying back to the UK next week so hopefully these will come in handy on the plane.
Friday Craft is on again tomorrow. I am hoping to finish a present for baby Alice, and applique 2 tops for Sarah, and help Ann sew a pair of boxers at the same time.

Green Smoothies.

2008-02-14T10:03:00.000+11:00

I am going to take part in the Happy Foody Green Smoothie Challenge.

Here are the details:

For 30 days beginning on February 25, you will commit to this ONE THING:
Drink a 16 oz. of green smoothie each day…preferably for breakfast. I HIGHLY recommend getting the book “Green For Life” by Victoria Boutenko. It’s a quick read and it has lots of yummy smoothie recipes in it. Check out her website too!
That’s it! You don’t even need to commit to changing anything else. Just ADD the smoothie.

But, for an added bonus, you could add one or more of the following:
Do some sort of activity every day. This could be an intense workout, or just dancing with your kids around the living room. It could be a 15 minute yoga session or a walk around the block.
Add a green leafy salad to your lunch or supper.
Stop drinking pop.
Cut out all white sugar.

I just had a practice go and made the one above, it was delicious!!

2 small royal gala apples, 1 carrot, 2 handfuls baby spinach. YUM.

Would you like to join me?

The idea.

2008-02-13T19:59:00.002+11:00

Frustration!! The readings I need for an assignment have been taken off the Uni website for 2 days now. For what reason, I do not know. I actually want to get this assignment done early so I can have it checked by the Teaching and Learning Centre. Essays are a weakness for me, and this lecturer only gave me a pass+ for my last essay (last year). I would love to get at least a credit.
This essay is about integrating Creative Arts into other curriculum areas which makes perfect sense to me, but is a radical idea for some teachers out there.

Speaking of teachers, have I mentioned my idea yet?

I am thinking of pulling the kids out of School in term 4 and trialling homeschooling. Why you ask? Has she flipped? Is this another one of Jo's crazy ideas? Is she battling her contentment issues again, and feels the need to change something in her life? Read on, no, maybe, and no.

My issue is that I think the kids (particularly Matt) have lost their passion for learning. He is a bright button (do I sound like one of those mothers?), and is so bored at school. I would love to let them have some time to learn about the things that they are interested in, not what the teacher has programmed (don't you hate that word, program!). I feel it's time I took some serious responsibility for their education other than getting them to school and supervising (extremely boring!) homework.

I have this romantic (wonderful) idea of homeschooling; excursions to the beach to study rockpools, building giant sculptures in the loungeroom, microscopes, telescopes, experiments, and snuggling up on the lounge (with popcorn) to watch cool documentaries. I will keep you posted.

'Inspiring Teachers' was on again tonight (thanks for calling to remind me mum).
This is a great show, definitely worth watching.

Birthday Surprise.

2008-02-13T12:38:00.000+11:00

Sarah will be turning 8 very soon. She has changed so much over the past year.
For her 7th Birthday we took her and a few friends to see Winnie the Pooh at the Marian St Theatre.
This year she wanted to go and see High School Musical on Ice. At around $50 per ticket, we said no.
But, I have just booked tickets to the Hannah Montana 3D concert instead. At $107 for 2 adults and 5 giggling girls, much better. I think she will be just as excited about this, she loves Hannah Montana, (and both Matt and Jonty have been known to watch the odd episode too...)
I am not sure whether to keep it a surprise or not. I am not sure whether Dave and I will enjoy it or not.

Discipline ??

2008-02-11T14:02:00.000+11:00

This is what my life is supposed to look like for the next 14 weeks; exciting hey!!

The pink areas are study time, the orange is housework and groceries, blue is Ladies Bible Study (I am co-leading a group) and Scripture (I will be teaching 2 classes), the yellow is Friday Craft. Sunday is left blank to be a family day/Church, and Thursdays are to catch up with friends, doctors, dentists, hairdressers etc... until I have assignments due, then it will be studying.

The only problem is that I am totally undisciplined, hate routine, am gifted at procrastination and get distracted easily.

DISCIPLINE, how do you get it??

Colour consultant needed!!

2008-02-08T16:58:00.000+11:00

Friday craft today.

Here is Katie trying to choose a fabric that I could use for applique on these purple stripey pants (for baby Alice). It is a well known fact that I can't pick colours (the colour I originally painted our bedroom looked like the Nocturnal House at the Zoo). The Cinnamon Teacake we ate.
The onesie I made today for Amys bub.

A silver lining.

2008-02-07T21:40:00.000+11:00

Sarah had a slight temperature last night, and has a bit of a cold, so she stayed home from school today just in case. She seemed fine so we went fabric shopping with Katie at Pennant Hills, then on to coffee at Beecroft. What a lovely way to spend the morning, and definitely a silver lining to being sick.
This afternoon she sewed this bag pretty much all by herself. She was chatting away to me about how sad her life would be if there was no sewing in it. I bought a few nice fabrics to make some presents for 2 new babies, Susanna and Alice. I am not sure what to make yet, but I know that when the Friday Craft girls get here in the morning they will help me decide.

2008-02-02T10:27:00.000+11:00

This week I have been working on Birthday presents for my God-daughter Lucy and her sister Zoe, (they are born on the same day, 2 years apart, how cool is that!!). Here is a sneak peek.
I love this little bird, it is from a 'Charlie and Lola' mobile template.

Yesterday was the first day of 'Friday Craft', a vision I have for this year to bring women together to create and build relationships with each other. It was lots of fun. I found myself playing the role of teacher, helping one friend make a bag, the other a pencil roll.

I really enjoy teaching which is a good thing considering I am at uni studying to become one.

1st day at school

2008-01-31T10:06:00.000+11:00

Well here he is, my baby going off to school (cliche, I know). He was mostly excited, a slight hesitation at the door of his classroom. I think I am going to like the teacher he got, she has a good sense of humour and I think she will "get" him, he can be quite a smartarse sometimes, but in a clever way if you know what I mean.
He has made an impression on the Principal already. When he saw him this morning he called out, "Hey Nash Mister! I always say things in reverse", and giggled to himself. Thankfully Mr Nash laughed too. Dave and I were laughing on the inside...

I had thoughts of going to the movies today, but decided to just come home and enjoy 'the serenity' as they say.

Crafty Night.

2008-01-26T11:09:00.000+11:00

Another craft night last night. This is what we made.
AnnieB started on a "babushka doll" style softie. (She is so clever)
I appliqued a rocket onto a t-shirt for Jonty. (dodgy, don't look too closely)
Pam added this cute monkey to a pair of her daughters PJ's. (Another clever one)

Thrifty finds.

2008-01-24T12:10:00.001+11:00

Some thrifty finds from yesterday. Two woolllen jumpers to do a bit more felting, might try and make some slippers out of the navy one.

And a gorgeous vintage woollen blanket. It is so soft and beautiful, why would anyone throw this out?? It is going on our bed after I have it dry-cleaned.

OK, I have to be honest and say that I did not actually pay for them. I was up at Church cleaning out the creche cupboards (because there are mice!!), these were in a box someone had left beside the Anglicare bin because it was full.

As it has been raining on and off all week I figured I was saving them from getting wet, then being thrown out.

I have moved...

2008-01-24T11:53:00.000+11:00

I have moved all my sewing stuff out of the study in a step towards actually doing some Uni work. Home is now in the dining room wall unit, I still need it to be accessible for Friday Craft (weekly craft session at my house).

2008-01-22T21:59:00.000+11:00

For those with a little time on their hands, why not enter the Handmade Parade Vintage Pillowcase Challenge!

Great Expectations

2008-01-22T20:52:00.000+11:00

I have had so much fun crafting, cooking and blog writing this past month, all the while ignoring this little pile of books on top of the piano.
They are books I need to read for Uni this semester and I am a bit afraid of them....I think I may be one of the only 35 year old women on the planet who has not read 'Pride and Prejudice' (OK, slight exageration, maybe......)
There is also Othello, The Crucible, and Great Expectations which is a very "compact" 500 pages, seriously, the preface describes it as compact!!!! WT

And here is a little bag for my neice Hunter who is turning 5 next week. Luckily she has a small hand because the opening is rather tiny, I must have reduced the pattern incorrectly.

And lastly, CONGRATULATIONS to Amy and Luke my dear friends in the UK who welcomed baby Susannah into the world yesterday.

Happy Birthday Katie

2008-01-22T20:43:00.000+11:00

My first project in the Fat Quarter Challenge was this drawing case for my good friend Katie who is 37 today, Happy Birthday.
It holds 7 pencils and a notebook. She liked it; and hopefully she will use it.

2008-01-17T20:29:00.000+11:00

These are some cards I made today. I am experimenting with ways to use up fabric scraps. Why?, because I am taking part in a Fat Quarter sewing challenge (a fat quarter is 18 x 22 inches).
The idea is to use up the whole thing and not have any scraps left over. You can use it for whatever, and however many items you like.

This is the material I have chosen, even though it actually makes my eyes go weird looking at it. I think it will be good in small doses and go with lots of other fabrics. I have used a small ammount in the gift I am making for a special arty friend, can't give away too much.

This month is a big one for birthdays, my sister, neice, God daughter, and a couple of friends all have birthdays in the coming weeks. I am trying hard to stick with my mostly handmade gifts pledge.

Mmmmmmmmmmmmm

2008-01-15T20:22:00.000+11:00

300g "00" flour
4 freshly laid eggs

1pkt bacon
small container of light cream

work up an appetite cranking the pasta machine

yum

2008-01-15T16:18:00.000+11:00

I just found this on Etsy. WOW!!! I love it. $700!!! I wonder whether I could make my own??

Teddy Tutus

2008-01-15T16:04:00.000+11:00

This is what Sarah and her friend Lexi have been making this afternoon.

The very basic instructions (no sewing!!) can be found here.

Cup of tea??

2008-01-15T15:45:00.000+11:00

The woollen jumper felted up quite well after a long hot wash and a spin in the dryer. It shrank by about 50% I estimate.

Here it is made up into a recycled woollen jumper tea cosy. I hope it does the job.

Softies

2008-01-13T16:07:00.000+11:00

AnnieB came over on Friday night to sew a softie. We decided to do the same one (beetle bug), but they are still quite different. Mine is the one with the unstuffed legs.
Here is AnnieB arranging them for the all important "photo for the blog".

I would like to have a go at making a felted tea cosy, maybe like this one. Apparently you can make felt from old woollen jumpers, there are lots of tutorials about how to do this on the net.
As I type this I have an old jumper and cardigan in the machine on HOT to have a go. I am hoping it works.

Lisa's "goo".

2008-01-07T20:55:00.000+11:00

This stuff is so delicious, you must try it. It can be served hot or cold, with roast lamb YUM!! or part of a mezze plate, with anything really..........
Lisa (my SIL) has given me the "recipe" so here it is. There are no exact ammounts, do it to taste/size of what you have.

Sataras pronounced 'Sat Tarash'

Slowly caramelise red onions, garlic with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Add red capsicum (fresh and bottled if available) and continue to cook on low temperature to soften
(best if you grill capsicums and remove skin)
Add tomatoes, zucchini and carrot (the capsicum and tomatoes make up ~ 2/3 of the total volume)
Cook for 2-3 hrs over low heat till carrot is tender
Add parsley if desired
Serve with crusty bread or ...........

Sunday afternoon..

2008-01-07T14:27:00.000+11:00

A bit of cooking. Jamie Oliver's slow roasted lamb shoulder.
It was delicious served with Aunty Lisa's "goo" (recipe to come).
A bit of swimming.

A bit of craft. We found this idea in Issue #1 of Mixtape Zine.
And an extension of the chook pen. Dave is hoping the little tractors will help clean up the veggie patch.

Op Shop Treasures

2008-01-06T08:34:00.000+11:00

A couple of days ago we discovered a fantastic op-shop in Sydney. If only I had been without Dave I could have bought so much more..........
I spent $11 and got a pattern (to make myself some PJ bottoms), 2 sewing mags, a crochet book (one of my NY's resolutions is to learn to crochet), an Australian geography textbook (I am doing a major in Geog at Uni), 2 great kids books (one of which I had as a child: I was reminiscing all the way home) and this GORGEOUS fabric!! (it was actually a curtain)
I love it!!, Dave thinks it is vile. Not sure what to use it for, maybe some cushion covers for the playroom, a bag for me.......

On a roll.........

2008-01-02T22:12:00.001+11:00

These Pencil Rolls are addictive, I have made 4 in the last day.
They are really easy. I have seen them here and here, and on many other craft blogs. I think I will try one with Rik Rak next.

I got spoilt!!

2008-01-01T14:37:00.001+11:00

I thought I would share a few of my more crafty Christmas presents.
This book which has the most gorgeous clever soft toys to make.

Issue #1 and #2 of Mixtape Zine.

A vintage sewing book by Enid Gilchrist, with lots of patterns for boys and girls.

Two new CD's from Dave, Paul Kelly and The Whitlams. I love having music on when I sew.

(And of course my new sewing machine, I was lucky really to get anything else at all....)

Holiday time.

2007-12-30T23:03:00.001+11:00

This school holidays I decided that everyone could choose a family activity to do, and everyone had to go along with it, no complaining!! I chose painting which went down like a lead ballon with Dave and Matt, but once they had started on their canvases they actually enjoyed it!!

Sarah, of course loved it and made two!!

Jonathan chose ten pin bowling.......
followed by Yum Cha.
The others are still deciding, with beach/ferry ride/movies/ bike rides being discussed.

Christmas Day.

2007-12-30T22:16:00.000+11:00

Finally, blogger is playing nice and letting me post some piccys of Christmas Day. We had a wonderful day with Dave's half of our family, a total of 14 people.
We told our early rising kids not to wake us until at least 6am, at 6.01 they were in our room... We opened our pressies, had brekky, then went to Church.

Sarah taking after her mother, shaking the presents......
and taking lots of photos.....
Jonty polishing off the Gingerbread House......
Just some of the food (roast beef, pork and chicken), we also had ham, prawns and smoked salmon, baked vegies, and a million salads.... and dessert!!

Of course Christmas Day means matching clothes for the boys, the only day I can really get away with it. (Sarah really needs a sister..............)

Christmas Eve

2007-12-24T22:08:00.001+11:00

One sleep till Christmas Day.......
The pressies are wrapped and under the tree, the relo's are here, I queued up at 6am this morning to buy prawns, only the stockings need to be filled before I go to sleep (must not forget this!!)
Church in the morning, then a day spent eating, chatting, calling North Coast relatives (the South Coast ones are here) and backyard cricket of course!!
Merry Christmas to you. Jo xx

PJ's

2007-12-23T19:52:00.000+11:00

Another bag using my favourite free pattern. I made it this afternoon. It is for our women's worker at Church (who is also a friend).

I have a thing about the kids having new PJ's to wear on Christmas Eve, something about the photos being better Christmas morning....I don't know if it makes any difference or not, but it sounds like a good theory. I made these boxers and appliqued a singlet for Sarah last night.

2007-12-22T14:07:00.000+11:00

I found this book in the library today and am looking forward to having a good look at it. The material I bought yesterday at Spotlight to make a couple of bags. I am showing this in B&W so the recipients won't see what colour bag they are getting.
Speaking of books, this is my all time favourite sewing/craft book by Yolanda Gifford. I love her style and even did a major Visual Art assignment on her last year.
I have my own version of this scrap quilt in my pile of UFO's. I am determined to finish it by next winter, it would be perfect to cuddle up with on the lounge to read a book or watch a bit of TV.

Yesterday I had a rather surreal (but fantastic) moment at the school Talent Quest. After what seemed like 100 Veronicas/Delta/JT/Christina A songs, a little girl (who was born in India by the way) got up and sang one of my favourite Paul Kelly songs, "Have you ever seen Sydney from a 727 at night?". I nearly fell off my chair, but was delighted just the same. I have decided to put the lyrics here for all to see. Enjoy!!

Have you ever seen Sydney from a 727 at night?
Sydney shines such a beautiful light
And I can see Bondi through my window way off to the right
And the curling waves on a distant break
And the sleeping city just about to wake
Have you ever seen Sydney from a 727 at night?
Now the red roofs are catching the first rays of the morning sun
My eyes are full of sand from my midnight run
And the captain says belt up now we'll be touching down in ten
So I press my seat and I straighten up
I fold my tray and I stash my cup
As the red roofs are catching the first rays of the morning sun
Have you ever fallen for a girl with different coloured eyes?
And sent her letters full of lies
Have you ever longed to see the sun fall where it used to rise?
And quit your job on the spot
Bought that ticket yeah spent the lot
Have you ever fallen for a girl with different coloured eyes?
Have you ever seen Sydney from a 727 at night?
Have you ever seen Sydney from a 727 at night?
Have you ever seen Sydney from a 727 at night?
Me I've never seen Dallas from a DC9

A new bag.................

2007-12-20T12:03:00.000+11:00

Above are Dave's extremely yummy baby orange tomatoes. I have no idea what the proper name for them is???
Our chooks.
Sarah's giant 'Seahorse'.

The Op Shop skirt has been reborn as a bag. It is the perfect size for wallet, phone and keys, but too small for the kids to load it up with all their junk. I love this free pattern that I used. The lining material is out of the remnant bin at spotlight and cost 50c !!

2007-12-18T12:06:00.000+11:00

I had great fun hitting the op-shops in Blacktown on Saturday. I bought a pair of jeans for me, a skirt for Sarah, some books, a funky vintage handbag and this skirt. I have great plans for the skirt, stay tuned........................
Here is Jonty who was a great Santa last night in the preschool Christmas concert. I can't believe that this is our last day ever at preschool after 6 1/2 years straight!!!!

A gold bag for Sarah's teacher.

2007-12-16T08:00:00.000+11:00

Sarah and I sewed this lovely bag for her teacher for Christmas. It took about 2 hours and we really love it, and both wish it was ours!!

I have had this brocade fabric for about 5 years and have never known what to use it for. Sarah chose the buttons out of her button jar. Her teacher is young and funky so I hope she likes it.

I am a chicken.

2007-12-15T08:35:00.000+11:00

No, I didn't cut out the skirt for Sarah when I realised that there was a zipper involved, I thought it was an elastic waist. I am a big chicken!!

I wondered why the lady at Spotlight looked at me a bit strangely when I said, "this looks pretty easy don't you think?", when I was buying the pattern.......

I know I can't do elastic waists and shirring forever, but I am only just getting back into sewing after a very long break. (excuses I know)

I am planning on making one of these or these for Sarah's teacher this weekend. I can't decide which one to try.

My Secret Stash

2007-12-14T15:19:00.000+11:00

I have been going through my stash of fabrics the past few days, washing, ironing, sorting.....

There are quite a few UFO's (unfinished objects) though not as many as I thought. A couple of things are worth finishing, but the majority are destined to be turned into something else, particularly the size 10 skirt all cut out ready to sew for me............

Here are some Fimo creations Sarah and her friends made after school

This afternoon I plan on cutting out a tiered skirt for Sarah out of some material I found in my stash, white background and blue flowers.

Boxers and Cupcakes

2007-12-12T22:01:00.000+11:00

Jonty was not too happy about a photo in his new boxer shorts, this will have to do. He chose the fabric himself. I am hoping to applique a matcing singlet top for PJ's.

I used to always be amazed when mum's turned up to playgroup or Bible Study with goodies they had baked that morning, but now that the kids are older and able to get themselves ready I can actually cook in the mornings. I made these cupcakes (using my new favourite recipe, the Women's Weekly rich chocolate cake) for the Bible Study Christmas Party this morning. I also received a lovely face washer and candle in the Kris Kringle.

Flowers

2007-12-11T21:18:00.000+11:00

I aquired this today from a box of stuff they were throwing out at preschool. Sarah and I have already put some flowers in it. I hope we remember to check it in 3 weeks time.........

Gingerbread House

2007-12-10T13:20:00.000+11:00

At the request of Amy in the UK, here is my Gingerbread House for this year. I usually do all pastels, but decided to go bright this year after we couldn't get any pastel MM's.

Green dress

2007-12-09T17:17:00.000+11:00

Here is Sarah in her new shirred dress. she wanted the straps to be halter style, but they have been annoying her all day so I may change them. It was hot today so she was really cool until the storm hit.

Some of the hail we got was huge. All the cars in the street were badly damaged. Unfortunately my old 1996 Commodore was safe and sound in the garage. You can see in the background that our veggie patch took a beating also. I havn't been out yet to see how the chooks are, they are crazy anyway, I know where the saying "silly old chook comes from".....

Boxer shorts

2007-12-08T20:26:00.000+11:00

I found a pattern for some boxer shorts in an old sewing mag. They took about an hour to make, and Matt sat on my lap to do a bit of the sewing (pretty cool for a 9 year old boy).

I apologise for the t-shirt!!!

Miss G in her new top.

2007-12-08T10:05:00.001+11:00

Here is the shirred top I made for G. I probably could have done a few more rows, but I like it like this.

Advent Calendars

2007-12-08T09:53:00.000+11:00

Do you use an Advent Calendar to count down to Christmas??

My mum started this train calendar about 30 years ago. She passed it on to me a few years ago, and I passed it straight to my mother in law to finish. They did a great job and it is really special because it was done by both grandmothers. I hope this becomes a family heirloom.

This year I have tied tree decorations to the rings, but have done small wrapped presents in the past (lollies, balloons, sharpeners etc...) We also read a short Bible passage each day when we hang the ornament.

New ideas.

2007-12-06T21:31:00.000+11:00

For those wondering how the shirring is going, let me say.....................I rock at shirring!! I have followed the instructions to the letter and taken my new sewing machine back to the shop where I bought it and got a quick lesson from the lady. I know what I am doing now!!! (And thanks Bron for the advice also).

Today I have made Sarah a dress, and also a top for a little princess from Hornsby Heights who is coming over tomorrow. I will take photos when the owners are modelling their new fashions.

Matt is desperate for me to make him something so I am going to have a go at some Boxer Shorts. I have been searching the net for a free pattern, but may have to go and buy one.

I took the top photo at Sculpture By The Sea a few weeks ago, I think something similar would look cool on a t-shirt, with lots of "stuff" sewn on, (ribbons, beads, buttons etc...) I am working on this idea...

In the other photo (also taken at Bondi Beach) Sarah is wearing my favourite bag that I bought from Target. A black and white version would be lovely, I will put that on the list to make too.

Off to bed, thanks for the lovely messgaes.

Who reads the instructions anyway?

2007-12-04T10:49:00.000+11:00

Of course I didn't read the instructions properly and was wondering why my shirring was not working. I forgot to change the stitch length to 5mm. After much frustration, I abandoned the dream of a shirred top, and embraced the ruffle top instead.

Sarah liked it anyway and was happy to model it for the camera.

6 metres??

2007-12-04T10:03:00.000+11:00

'6 metres' refers to the fabric I bought yesterday at Spotlight. Uni has finished for the year (results are in on Thursday!!) and I want to get back to doing some sewing. Here is the fabric I bought.

I thought I would start with a shirred top for Sarah. I saw the pattern here and it didn't look too hard. Is that laughter I hear?