Sarah C

Bragging Rights

2011-07-11T03:45:00.000-07:00

This post is a little dated but since I have not blogged in such a long time I thought I would start here with my beautiful daughter.

Bronte had a fantastic year of singing in 2010. She finished the year with performances at

Sydney Opera House for Oprah's Finale
Christmas Carols for Lights of Sydney on the steps of St Mary's Cathedral

and finally Chirstmas Carols at QVB for their christmas shoppers.

Her singing strengthens every month and our house is being filled with her lovely voice practicing for upcoming events. We look forward to seeing what events are scheduled for 2011.

Lilly's Garden

2010-12-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

My sewing machine has been out of action for the past year but it has fired up it's engines (a little rusty mind you) and has been going great guns for the last few months....with Christmas fast approaching I thought I would handcraft a few gifts to save a little money but give personalised gifts of better value than can be purchased.....

My favourite so far is this little quilt using the pillow tutorial from Don't look now! with a few altercations......firstly I have made it into a wall hanging, something to brighten up a little girls room and secondly I had to hand embroider the flowers as I was not too comfortable using the darning foot and on attempt was not at all happy with the result (Must go and do some lessons).... I also added two white butterflies to blend into the background and an extended birds tail just because......

I tried to bury all the embroidery ends but it became cumbersome so in the end I just cut the close to the end...I also tossed up whether to cover up the back but did not think it would do it justice......it is finished and labeled and I think i like the back better than the front.......

Christmas Carols!

2010-11-26T17:55:00.000-08:00

Bronte is getting ready to sing at St Mary's Cathedral Sydney for the Lights of Christmas on Saturday 12th December and then again at The QVB on Christmas Eve day especially for shoppers, to spread the christmas cheer. She has already mastered Silent Night in German.
I hope you are enjoying the festive season and being good to each other.

Small Gifts

2010-11-22T04:30:00.000-08:00

I made these cute hand stitched teeny tiny pocket pillows using this tutorial from goody goody handmade.
The boy was a gift for a little boy I babysat and the 3 girls were for Miranda to take to her 1st sleep over with her friends who were looking after her while we were at The Opera House for Bronte's annual Choir concert.

I really love how they turned out and was able to personalise them with thier favourite colours and names.

Singing

2010-11-16T00:46:00.000-08:00

Bronte has had a great year with Choir and was fortunate to have gained a place (through audition) into Canto an entry specialist level within the choir.

This is Bronte outside the Sydney Opera H0use after her Annual Concert

Singing at Randwick Races Tatersalls Day

Singing at Star City Sydney NSW Export Awards in Qantas uniform

Bronte will continue to sing with Chior next year and moves up a level in regular rehearsals and will stay in Canto, with more public performances to come.

Costume Bags

2010-11-05T04:56:00.000-07:00

With the girls annual dance concert coming up and 7 costumes to protect I thought it would be fun to make up some costume bags. I used Japara fabric which is 100% cotton and I have just found out is waxed and repels water (fantastic). I really love the texture of Japara which is often used in pillows and quilts to prevent goose/duck down from excaping the weave. I also made my own bias to add a bit of difference.
I used a shop bought plastic garment bag to make my own design and added a shorter zipper to create a large pocket in which they can chuck thier costumes into after each dance to ensure each piece comes home and does not get left behind.

A large outside pocket to hold shoes or other bits and pieces.

Silhouette

2010-11-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

I was keen on getting some art/pictures for my bedroom wall and was browsing one of those vinyl wall sticker stands but just could not make up my mind on what to get - I was close to getting a silhouette of a lady whose hair turned to flowers but something was just not quite right about it, after a few days of thought the lightbulb flicked and I made this, Miranda in silhouette much better than some thing random. My bed spread is black and beige and this vinyl was so easy to work with -If my pinning was more precise. Now all I need to complete the task is make one up of daughter number 1 and have them hung.

Facebook v's Blogging

2010-11-01T03:41:00.000-07:00

Ok so how can their possibly be a comparison?
There can not be, but somehow that is where I have found myself over the last 15 months.

So much has happened over the last 15 months, We have moved house, and after 12 months I was finally able to unpack all of my sewing boxes, the kids are both 15 months older, with my baby off to big school next year.

And my big girl doing well in dance and choir - I just love her lines in this photo.

We have lost 1 cat and gained 2 (Violet and Rose),

we were the caretakers of 2 mice for about 9 months and are now the owners of 2 chickens (Chickpea and Lindsay).I guess I stopped sewing, crafting and blogging so much as well, but whilst so much has happened, so much has stayed the same.

I am back into my sewing, crafting and hopefully blogging - I hope to see you again more regularly.

Some recent projects

Sarah

It's been a while

2009-07-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

Well I did not realise how many of you read my blog so it has been on the backburner while we have been house hunting and out and about. Sorry I will try to be more regular so my post are not so lengthy

House Hunting

We have had quite an exciting but tiring few months. We decided to get into the house hunting market but this time to buy our own place. Wow it is so much harder than renting, so much more on the line. First there is price and what and where we can afford to buy in Sydney, then there are the schools - we need to place high priority on both primary and high schools as by 2012 I will be commuting to both every morning and afternoon and the kids will be socialising in them and then the area, the size of the house and of course the bank evaluation. We have put in offers on 2 properties now 1 which we declined on because of area and then the second came well under valuation and proved too costly in repairs it ticked a number of boxes especially walking distance to both schools and I could have my own sewing room and Bruce could have a study but we were unsure of area and the bank valuation was high importance because we would not get a loan. So after this disaster we have reassessed our priorities and have decided to downsize for a number of years to get into an area we love, build up some equity and then upsize. it will mean the girls share a room, I do not get much sewing space and living areas are smaller but I think school choice is important. Our available market is much smaller but well patience is a virtue.

Out and about

We have been extremely busy and very lucky over this period with exciting outings in and around town. Here is the exciting list and some pics.

Baby Ballet at the Opera House with Miranda

Gruffalo Theatre Production at Riverside Theatre Parramatta with Bronte & Miranda

3 Birthday Parties (2, 4yrs old parties and 1, 3yr old party)

Two reversible aprons and a chef hat each were made for 2 gifts

Australian Girls Choir Concert at the Hills Centre where Bronte sang and we adored her singing.
A Cheerleading Trivia Concert where both girls danced up a storm

A school Dance performance where Bronte danced

A Dance scholarship where Bronte competed in Jazz, Tap and Ballet. I was so impressed by how much she has learnt this year. Bronte has been dancing for a few years now but when we moved we changed dance schools and her new dance school teaches from a syllabus so she is learning so much more.

Ice Skating 3 times

Hannah Montana movie

Luna Park

Ice Age 3 Movie at the drive-in's

and I have been lucky enough to get out twice without the kids and enjoy dinner and a movie (Bruno) with a friend and dinner and a movie (The Proposal) with Bruce

Swap Goodness

2009-06-02T21:01:00.000-07:00

The Postie had been working hard over at Snailblazer's swap and I was lucky enough to receive my swap package with some really lovely loot all for me.

And it's not even my birthday.

In my Package I received
Some lovely bird cards from Jo
A cute Headband and fabric flower from Suzanne
A useful tissue holder from Natasha
A handy phone cosy from Bec
A zippered purse from Danielle
A funky yellow broach from Sophie
A make up purse from Kat
A Hanging Chain from Monica
A Birdy Hair Tie Travel Case with some lovely hair clips from Kylie
A knitted wash cloth from Leah

A really fun swap which I would be keen on doing again.

Thanks to Cass for organising such a fantastic swap. And I really love my poem envelope titled
Sarah's Poem
There was a mouse
Lived in my house
I said: 'For Heaven's sake!
Your squeaky talk
And tapping walk
Are keeping me awake.'

The mouse stopped dead
And turned it's head
It said: 'I beg your pardon!
I'd rather freeze
On a piece of cheese
Than move into your garden.........well it stops short I would love to have read more but it was rather cute.

Excuse me now I'm off to get another tissue from my tissue holder, if only i could roll up in bed and not get out.

Threads - Not from my sewing table!

2009-05-26T06:03:00.000-07:00

"Mummy I have worms in my......" I am sure you can fill in the blank.
Since Easter we have had Croup, Ear infections, colds and then thread worms (and that is only one child) - what more I thought.
After treating the whole family and madly washing everything in the house - including all surfaces they came back 2 days later. How long has she had these things - no wonder every 5 minutes we heard "Mummy I'm hungry".
Well with strict handwashing and a retreatment I am hoping the only threads I find are the ones on my sewing table which do not move.

Book Review: Handle with Care - Jodi Picoult

2009-05-17T20:50:00.000-07:00

Handle with Care Jodi Picoult's latest novel is about a family struggling to afford the cost of raising a child with brittle bone disease (OI) and the decision to file a lawsuit against their obstetrician (a close family friend) for wrongful birth. Picoult allows the reader to empathise with each character and as a parent can feel for all parties involved.

Handle with Care was an easy read filled with emotion, relationship struggles, questioning and ended with an unexpected turn left me feeling sort of incomplete and not ready to move onto another book just yet. However the unexpected ending was fresh and not predictable like so many others.

I have read all 16 of Picoult's novels and again enjoyed this book with similar style yet not repetitive. I especially loved the recipes added to the book a clever way of separating segments and inspiration to get ionto the kitchen.

Birthday Sewing

2009-05-11T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have been busy sewing a birthday gift for my 2 year old niece Kayla- I decided to go with a cooking theme and make up a reversible apron and bandanna and led into a pot holder and mitten and to top it off a table setting for 4 - placemats, coasters and napkin sets. I am very please with the resultThe colours came together using the pink floral print (a fat quarter I had in my stash) I decided not to add a pocket to the floral side as it made it too busy. I quilted the blue spot to make the pot holder and mit. And needed to add some pink spot to make enough pink floral to make the bandanna. All the fabric came from my stash but I will definately be going out to replace my spots.

The table cloth has purple spots and will tie into a second apron and chefs hat for my other niece Sophie (Kayla's sister) who's favourite colour is of course purple and who's birthday is next month.

I hope they will both be cooking up a storm in thier new kitchen ware.

Sneak Peak

2009-05-01T18:18:00.000-07:00

I have eagerly joined a Snailblazer Swap with the criteria of making 10 of something handmade. The dilemma was in what to make and then getting in and making them.

I decided to go with something that has been on my list of things to make for ME! Using some of my favorite fabrics stashed away for that perfect project.

Of Course I can not show you the finished project as that would ruin the surprise!

Packed and sent off I eagerly await my return parcel of 10 handmade items made by some extraordinary bloggers/crafters - see Snailblazers blog roll to see who is swapping.

Crazy Hair Day

2009-04-30T05:17:00.001-07:00

Miranda Loved having Crazy Hair for Cheerleading.
I had done Bronte's the day before in 4 sections and as I was doing Miranda's in the before school rush decided dissected the 4 into 8. I was pretty happy with the result.

Happy Days Are.....

2009-04-28T06:02:00.001-07:00

Holidays! Holidays Are Happy Days.

We are lucky enough to have a holiday house available to us on the lovely South Coast of NSW.

This holiday was cold, windy but filled with the natural wildlife.

The Girls new beanies I made the day before heading off -using Simplicity Pattern 3534 were well worn
We saw Dolphins Galore on our dolphin cruise on Jervis Bay

A baby Kookaburra visiting our back porch for breakfast

A Kangaroo family -mum, dad and joey in the front yard (and yes Kangaroos do jump down the street here)And many sea gulls all fighting for the next chip - I could have bought many bags of them just to watch Miranda's delight at feeding the sea gulls it was magical.

In Ulludulla Harbourand HusskissonGetting their feet wet in Ulludulla Harbour was as close as we came to swimming these holidays

Instead enjoying walks along the basin down the road from our house.

To end the holiday we stopped at Gerringong for an Ice Cream with T-Rex and a roll down the hill.
Free Plug - If you think our holiday looks fun why not take your family! The house is available to rent year round at an affordable rate, If you mention my blog you may get a discount?

Winter Dresses

2009-04-20T06:54:00.000-07:00

Here are some Winter Dresses I made for Miranda
I am really loving Black and White Print fabric with a touch of colour.

Maybe you might just find yourself some in the post?

For the last 2 years now I have taken Bronte to the Sydney Easter Show just mother and daughter, we sit and enjoy some shows and have some rides.

This year Bronte Coaxed me onto the Roller Ghoster and well the faces say it all - there were men dressed up jumping out at you - I had to keep my eyes closed for the rest of the ride.

But she was not going to get me up there (Mega Drop)- I do not think my heart would have taken the plunge. I felt like a mum letting go of her little girl whilst she sat way up there, I just kept praying that she would make it down in one piece - of course she did and with a smile from ear to ear.

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T19:03:00.000-07:00

Easter Wouldn't be complete without

The Easter Show

A fun day out milking cows, feeding baby animals, rides, cake decorating and a show

I made these bracelets with the kids names and mobile phone numbers on the back to to safeguard any losses - thankfully they were only used as fashion accessories and not IN Case of Emergency.

Family

A fun day at the park with Bruce's family

and of course Eating Chocolate

Swimming

2009-03-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

Hummmmm! a feeling I got when I reached the swimming pool yesterday morning ready to jump in to swim laps of my local pool.

I really got into swimming sometime in 2001/02 and did some competitions in 02 & 03 but when I moved back to Sydney there were no local pools which had a creche so swimming was put down to once a week and I started boxing. The I got pregnant and stopped it all after some bleeds. I re joined the Gym last year but I found it really hard walking on a treadmill not even the lure of watching daytime TV could motivate me but for health reasons I made myself go.
We have settled into our new house but because of distance I gave up the gym. But Bronte started swimming lessons at 7pm enough time for Bruce to get home a look after Miranda and I started swimming once a week since Feb. I have found that 2 of my local pools have a creche - so Miranda has found herself in creche twice now and last Sunday I dragged myself up and headed for the pool (3 swims last week).

So for me it's swimming up and down a pool that will keep me healthy - maybe I could go back to competition swimming in a few years?

Modern Pirate Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-03-25T04:23:00.000-07:00

Modern Pirate Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

WOW! Just look at this work not only does Grosgrain have time to make dresses to giveaway to her readers but she has time to photograph them and then edit the photos into amazing pieces of art - I can see a story book coming on. If you would love a chance to win this dress click on my link above and visit her site where she is now showcasing some amazing sellers and a host of her very own handmade giveaways.

A Month of Shows

2009-03-09T04:51:00.000-07:00

What a great way to start the month.Roll up Roll Up the Circus is in town. We had a fantastic time at the circus which was set up just minutes from home.
The performances were amazing and jaw dropping - my favourite was the many colourful suits worn by The Ring Master - he donned more that 20 sparking suits in all colours of the rainbow.

A few days later Bronte and I headed off to see Bangarra Dance Theatre: True Stories

WOW it was truly amazing. We had front row middle seats and were in awe for two 40 minute productions. The first show was traditionally based whilst the second was a contemporary dance about the effects of atomic testing on the aboriginal people of Australia. I must say my favourite was the traditionally based dances, the dancers were graceful, emotional and inspiring- I will definitely be heading back to see Bangarra in the future.

An old friend used to dance with Bangarra and he studied with some of the current dancers whom I used to go out drinking with through my friend I really wanted to wait for them to come out of the show but was too shy and did not think they would remember me anyway.

Here is Bronte before the show sharing a mother/daughter bonding time for hot chocolate.

Blushing Buttercream Pettiskirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-02-23T03:34:00.000-08:00

Blushing Buttercream Pettiskirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

Now this would be one giveaway not to miss!

I can just see Miranda rocking up to ballet class in this getup. Oh pick me, pick me.

Book Review: Towel Head

2009-02-04T19:44:00.000-08:00

I purchased this book at the same time as my last book review- "Does my head look big in this?" both from the young adult/older children's section of the book self from K-Mart. I was surprised by it's extremely graphic sexual content and was somewhat disturbed by a fiction children's book being so graphic. Jasira is a 13yr old mixed American Lebanese girl who is shipped off to live with her father because her mothers boyfriend -pays a little too much attention to her. Her father is strict and Jasira is unable to understand his boundaries. Jasira is a 13yr old who is lost in a world of adults whom she does not understand - she feels love through the unnatural affections of her mother's boyfriend, the neighbour - father of the boy she babysits and then a African American boy from school whom she is baned from seeing because he is "black"

The title of the book "Towelhead" is what the neighbours young son calls Jaira and her father.

I felt a little disturbed after reading this book there is an extreme amount of sexually graphic images portrayed as well as racism. (Not a view of the Author rather a portrayal of life a troubled 13 year old - which I am sure is more common that I would like to think).

I do not think this book should be placed on the shelves where young girls can read without any warnings ot it's strong sexual content or language. This book has been made into a motion picture which I would be curious to see - no where near my daughters. Thankfully it does have an R rating with Strong Disturbing Sexual Content and Abuse involving a teen and for language.

To Alicia Erian's credit the book was well written, easy to read and believable.

I have done some sewing lately but much more reading - stay tuned for my sewing pics and book reviews for the Twilight series.

Book Review: Does My Head Look Big in This

2009-01-26T19:26:00.000-08:00

What better place to be reading a book than sitting on the beach whilst the kids are being kept busy in the sand and sea on a loveley warm sunny day.

OK so I did not get through this whole book while at the beach and I did get into the sea for a dip but I was able to get through a substantial amount of this book whilst we were on the coast for a week.

Does my head look big in this? was an easy fictional read about 16year old Amal Mohamed Nasrullah Abdel-Hakim an Australian-Palestinian- Muslim and spans a over a period of approx 1 Australian school term (11weeks) and the dilemmas she faces as a teenager going to McCleans Grammar School in Melbourne.

Whilst on holidays Amal makes the decision that she would like to return to school wearing a hijab (head scarf) on a full time basis, not just part-time. That means she will be wearing her hijab in all public situations outside her family home including to school each day. Even if she may encounter negativity from others. Amal goes through the process of all teenagers wanting to wear the right clothes, looking nice and fitting in.

In the end Amal finds that through the support of her family, her old school friends and current school friends she gets through in tact and feels comfortable with the person she is.

This book whilst raises some serious issues is easy and lighthearted to read and a great recommendation to any teenager/young adult trying to fit in to their world whilst trying to be true to themselves even if it means sticking out a little.

I have been very fortunate to be brought up in a society which was so rich in diversity as a child my dad had a Lebanese friend and from a young age we were eating Lebanese foods, my mum worked in hotels and had friends who were Yugoslav, Thai, Japanese, Polish. At school I was friends with Muslims who would pray at lunch, Greeks and Chinese so for me I have a great respect for all humans who ultimately have respect for others. I am however Anglo and have not experienced discrimination due to race so I can not fully understand the dilemmas faced by making a choice to wear something which really makes me stand out but I guess as a teenager I faced many of the challenges of fitting in and belonging - in the end it is about surrounding yourself with a few friends who love and support you for all you are and ignoring those who choose to put you on the outer for whatever reasons they may choose.

Birthday Girl

2009-01-18T03:55:00.000-08:00

WOW I can't believe my big girl is already 9.

She has had a great Birthday week celebrating with old friends down the coast and come home a beach bunny.

Tulei who is just 3 days older, who we met when we were both pregnant and have lost contact for the last 5 years - amazingly I received a text from her only days before we went on holiday and found they had moved down the coast so we spent a few days with them at the beach, pool and carnival

and catching up with her old friend Jack

We arrived home this afternoon and first on the agenda was present opening, Bronte was, as always spoilt getting lots of pressies - she loved them allThen out for a special birthday dinner.

Book Review: Marley & Me

2009-01-10T05:21:00.001-08:00

I thought I would start a new meme - Book reviews of the latest books on my night stand so here is the first completed book for 2009 Marley and Me By John Grogan transformed into a motion picture out now in cinemas.

I bought this book on Christmas day whilst waiting to board the plane to mum's - not the cheapest place to be buying a book but I was on the last few pages of my book and was in need of a new one.

Marley and Me is a book about Marley and his 13 years with the Grogan family. Marley is a very anxious, energetic and very large lab who failed to pass puppy obedience due to his over enthusiastic outlook on life. He costs the family many trips to the vet and repairs to the family house and sees the family through 3 births and 3 moves 2 in Florida and 1 to Pennsylvania. Marley whilst his antics created chaos in the home was really loved by his family.

Marely and Me was an easy read and made me happy and surprisingly made me cry at the end of his life. It made me glad to have a cat (who in the last months has cost a small fortune in vet bills repairing war wounds), and a real reminder about how important it is to choose a pet very carefully but also how much love they bring into a family.

Whilst I enjoyed the book I would not run off to see the movie - I can wait for it to come out on DVD. However if you are not a book reader Marley and Me may prove a light movie to see for any pet lover.

We are heading down the coast "to the blue house" for a week along the water, some books and outdoor fun.

Lookout for my next book review coming in the near future.

High Fashion Toddler Style - Work It!

2009-01-08T14:45:00.000-08:00

Still not smart enough to hide the chocolate raid evidence which covers the face and pygamas.

Weekend Sewing

2009-01-07T04:38:00.000-08:00

Just because - I have had this fabric in my stash for quite some time now with plans to make an outfit for Miss M so I made some adaptions to a pattern I already own, added ruffles, raided her t-shirt draw and appliqued 2 already worn t-shirts for 2 new outfits.I really love long cotton pants on Miranda for Summer her skin is fair and our sun has a sting so these pants provide coverage without being heavy and hot.

Holiday

2009-01-01T04:47:00.000-08:00

We have had a lovely holiday in Brisbane visiting Grandma, there were many things to see and do.
The highlights were Sea World and for Bronte a swim with the dolphins.

Dress up's - raiding Grandma's clothes.

Streets Beach - a beach in the middle of the city

For Bronte a touch of the finer life with VIP Tapis Rouge Tickets to Drallion with Grandma,

Whilst Miranda imitated a Pear at the Art Gallery and encoutered Crocodiles at the Museum.

My highlight was a luxurious trip to the hairdressers and my lovely new earings.

Thanks Mum for a fun holiday.

I hope you are all enjoying the fesitve season and enjoying time with family and friends.

But Didn't Santa already come.

2008-12-24T04:18:00.001-08:00

This Christmas we will be celebrating Christmas over 2 days and not 1.

Our bags (the girls and my) are packed and almost ready for our Christmas day fight,

To preserve the rush and enjoy a family Christmas we thought it would be a good idea to open family pressies on Christmas eve morning and share our family meal in the evening so we to celebrate with daddy, and the girls can get to enjoy some of their goodies without having to quickly put them down before heading off to see Grandma in Brisbane.and after all my crafting for others I had to whip up two little angels for my girls - patterns made using Inside a Black Apple template - my own construction.Christmas morning will be spent opening pressies from Santa, last minute packing and a packed lunch in the car on the way to the airport.
I hope Santa has not forgotten me my sack is lying on the floor looking pretty empty.Christmas afternoon will be spent at Grandmas sipping Margaritas on the balcony looking over Brisbane River.

Christmas Giving

2008-12-17T04:08:00.000-08:00

This month my sewing machine has been busy sewing children's Christmas gifts.

I was able to sew up 5 gifts to put under a local charity group Christmas Tree who will pass them on to other in need.

I really enjoyed making gifts without the expectation of receiving a gift in return.

So here is the list of my Christmas Cheer.

Package 1 & 2 for 3-4 year olds.

Handmade notebook/pencil rolls - in fairies print to celebrate the new Tinkerbell movie, Basement Bargain Bindi dress and a Pamela Allen Picture book.

Package 3 for 8 - 12 year old

Note book/pencil roll complete with watercolour pencils, brush, fine art line pen and sketch book (inspired by my 9yr olds sketching set)

Package 4 for 2 - 4 year old

Doll Quilt, pillow & case and doll. Doll was made using Black Apple Doll Template on Martha Stewart Website and quilt inspired by Crazymomquilts.blogspot - my own dimensions.

Package 5 for 2-4 year old

Doll quilt, pillow & case and doll - the doll a pattern in Australian Handmade quilt was made using left over squares and my need to finally try to make a quilt using more than squares. I really loved this quilt and found it hard to part with but I can always make another.

Dinner Party Frock!

2008-12-17T03:39:00.000-08:00

Dinner Party Frock GIVEAWAY!!!!

Grosgrain is one talented sewer and this will be my first time entering her giveaway.
Each month grosgrain sews up a beautiful outfit and gives it away - just like that.
I can see Miranda looking fab in this green party dress.

Christmas Fair

2008-12-07T04:24:00.001-08:00

Christmas Fair
Originally uploaded by SarahC3202

On the way home from the dance concert we stumbled upon a club's (in which I belong) Christmas Fair and headed on over - with a swipe of my card we had lots of free ride tickets and spent a few hours jumping, sliding, patting, riding, swinging, sticking and spining.

A celebratory dinner at a club closer to home set the day off to be a fun filled family day out

Note:click on the mosaic to take a closer look

Dance 08

2008-12-07T04:04:00.001-08:00

Bronte & Miranda Dance 08
Originally uploaded by SarahC3202

The Big day has arrived

Miranda gets to perform on stage for the first time today for 2 dances- something she has been preparing to do all year -especially the last month. Miranda was fantastic on stage and remembered all her dance moves and loved the large audience.

Bronte an old hand spent the 1st hour of the morning having her hair curled (for a change) and make-up done and was dressed and ready, Bronte had 4 dances and some quick costume changes which I was impressed she managed well.

Bronte got the special class tophie this year which as special and great recognition of her hard work throughout the year and a goodbye memory. This was our last year at this dance school, due to our move further away than practial - it is sad to say goodbye to yet another aspect of our old house, area and friends but we also look forward to the new.

Babies Galore

2008-12-04T04:43:00.000-08:00

My good friend Emilie had her little baby boy (Xander) last week and in between him getting me out of bed at 2.30am to look after his big sister I was able to make him a special quilt - this quilt is sashed with men's recycled shirts and backed with bleached mauve chenille, some onesies and

I found this cute little retro suitcase to put it all together.

Of Course I could not forget to make a Big Sister Gift - so I made Ana a Notebook & Pencil Roll using One Red Robin's tutorial to keep her busy when mum's hands are full.
Miranda and Ana catching up a week before Xander was born. And A Custom Order Baby Gift for my mum's neighbour - 2 onsies and a gift bag.

Bag Ladies

2008-12-02T03:15:00.000-08:00

I am not one who has a pile up of blog posts but my machine has been working overtime and there are many creations waiting to be blogged.
I will start with my lastest creations and over the next week or two get to my first.

After aquiring a copy of Seams to Me by Anna Maria Horner inspiration came for some Chirstmas Pressies for Bronte and Miranda's dance teachers - The Taxi Tote
And of course some snazzy christmas bags to wrap them in (initialed with each teacher's name)

What Do 3 year olds do when thier mums are too busy sewing and not playing - dress up's of course - here Miranda is dressed in her sister's 2005 dance costume complete with make-up. Still in need of some make-up classes.

A Masterpiece of Forever Flowers

2008-11-24T04:18:00.001-08:00

This wonderful hand embroidered blanket was cleverly crafted by my mum over the past year as a special gift to me - something for me to remember her by.

As a child I remember mum trying unsuccessfully to teach me (a left hander) how to knit, sewing special dresses and taking over my latch hook. Mum stopped crafting when I was about 8 years old until this. A masterpiece which she has created with no plan or pattern just the idea and a blank grey canvas.

I love it - and it has even been backed with my all time favourite flannel.

There is such detail in this blanket from flowers, fish, caterpillars, bees, and bells. A textural feast.

Performers All Round

2008-11-16T04:19:00.000-08:00

Bronte was lucky enough to have made her 2nd debut singing in the Concert Hall at The Sydney Opera House on Saturday with Australian Girls Choir along with 600 other girls.

It was fabulous and as always delightful and so special seeing Bronte up on stage singing and dancing.

Another excuse to get out the sewing machine and sew Bronte the required white dress/skirt and top outfit.Miranda proved to be a wonderful audience member and sat beautifully throughout the performance.

With the weather threatening rain all day we were grateful to enjoy a leisurely afternoon in and around Circular Quay after the performance.

Miranda gave her own personal performance to passers-by dancing for over 20minutes to the tunes played by the busker and his saxophone. At the end of each song she graciously curtsied to those who had stopped to enjoy her show.

Koalas Peacocks and Kangaroos

2008-11-13T03:23:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we headed off to The Koala Park to celebrate my sister-in-law's birthday.It was a great day out -as Miranda described "This is the best picnic ever mummy" - a nice day out after the last few weeks of mayhem.
We got to pat lots of native animals and feed some very lazy kangaroos, the peacocks were really putting on a show and Koala spotting was a test on any one's patience but we found one out of it's enclosure and not too far up a gum tree (the Koalas are able to roam free around the park and pick any tree which suits, most koalas at the park were born their naturally without any human intervention)And this one makes pregnancy look a breeze!

Colonial Style Dress

2008-11-12T02:45:00.000-08:00

I don't often sew for Bronte my older daughter but when she reminded me (with 2 days to spare) she needed to go to school dressed in English Colonial Style clothing (Australian History Lessons), the machine was out and boxes scavenged through.

A simple tired peasant skirt and top with apron and bonnet in plain blue and some cream. The cream band on the bottom of the top was used to lengthen the top as it was a little short.

I was rather stuck on the bonnet but with a little adaption Hoppo Bumpo's Shower Cap Tutorial
fit perfectly with the theme.without the bonnet and apron it has turned into a pretty spring outfit.

Out with the Old in with the New

2008-11-06T19:41:00.000-08:00

Well not completely new -
The last month has been rather busy with packing, moving, unpacking settling into a new community and communting to the old.

So here we say goodbye to our old house

and hello to our new house (Bronte's 5th and Miranda's 3rd)

a new school -
Bronte seems to have made 2 freinds very quickly and settled into her new school very well
a new bed in a new room Miranda has moved out of sharing a room with me in a cot, to sharing a room with her big sister in a big girls bed
a different oven I was devistated to discover that the oven door in our new house would not shut properly but after a week it was fixed and Miranda is quite keen on baking weekly.

There are still boxes to unpack, rooms to organise, activities to be reloccated and little creases to be ironed out but we are settling in slowly,

Whilst moving to a new area poses many challenges which I could name a few, here are some special things about our new community -

A short drive up the road to the local big grocery store sees us in semi-rural areas with hobby farms and cows to look at out the window.
We have a lovely view looking over Sydney's south west from our front door/lounge and bedroom.
Driving home after an afternoons commute sees lovely views of The Mountains.
Whilst we are on the fringes of Sydney we are still very close to many large shops and on a good run it only take us 15 mins back to our old community.

Because she is so cute!

2008-10-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

Bronte photo's taken last month (they really capture her especially the second) - I just love her freckle nose.

This Is......My current reading material, kitchen appliance and me signing off.

2008-10-12T03:26:00.000-07:00

This weeks this is.....my current reading material - I quite enjoy reading and will read each night when I hop into bed before sleeping - no matter what the time -it's a bit like brushing my teeth something I can not go to bed without doing.

I am currently reading

Wild Swan by Jung Chang - this current book has taken me quite a long time to read (more than 3 months - I read approx 10 books in the first half of the year). I am into my last 150 pages and have found the last half more about Jung Chen's life amongst Chinese Cultural Revolution much easier to read than the first - about her parents and grandparents life within Communist China.

Wild Swan has been a bit of a history lesson, a bit of gratitude for a life I have lived and some empathy for the Chinese Culture, especially those living around me. I have enjoyed it but am looking forward to finishing it and reading my next book - Heart of Darfur by Lisa French Baker - a nurse who works with Medecines Sans Frontier and is her own personal accout of life as a nurse in Darfur refugee camps.

From last week This is......My Favourite Kitchen Appliance

Yes the humble old Oven - this is/will be my old oven last Sunday after I had finished scrubbing it, I want to open the door just to admire the shine (mmm I know I am weird) - a fitting theme for the week.

We have the keys for the new house and have been there twice now and would you believe I could not get the oven to work - I have finally worked it out but the door does not shut that well :( I am hoping that gets fixed quite quickly as I really love using the oven.

This is me....signing off

Tomorrow I spend the day finalising boxes and dismantling beds, computers etc, the trucks will be here on Tuesday and I will not get connection back for 1 week - I am online more often than not so I will be shutting down with a sign - see you on the other side.

To see who else is playing This is....head on over to three buttons

Miranda's Packing Tips

2008-10-01T21:32:00.000-07:00

Pick up anything lying around the room, throw it into a box (make sure there is nothing hanging over the edge), when 1/2 full sticky tape shut.

If only life was so simple.

Music Madness - Bird Style

Some time out in the mayhem of packing - a great free event run by Sydney Olympic Park

On the move

2008-09-26T05:09:00.000-07:00

We have found a home

Some serious packing will need to be done - crafting will be put on hold and packed up but with much excitement as it will be unpacked into a nice room and off the dining table.

I have plans for this room to be my new sewing/kids play room with easy access into the yard.

16km's away from our current house means a gradual infiltration into the community.
As we only looked at, applied for this house and got news of acceptance today Bronte will go back after 2 weeks holidays for 2-3 days at her old school (to get all her belongings and say goodbye) and then move to her new school, we will be able to move a few activities next term but for this year a travel in sometimes heavy peak traffic will mean some long days.

We are all excited and a little anxious to be moving in a short 2 -3 weeks time.

Summer Sewing

2008-09-24T16:28:00.001-07:00

Pack or Sew?
Sew of course.

Heat exploded through Sydney for the second weekend, sweaty kids needed something cool to wear with a little sun protection - so what better reason than to make a few dresses to run around in.

2 Peasant dresses - 2 different looks.

Apron Peasant Dress

I am thinking the apron bit needs something (embroidery maybe?), and possibly a removable sash to pull it in.

The Cherry Dress

We have this book at home but it was not until I finished making the dress that I found the book after not reading it in quite a while and noticed the resemblance - I just hope my craftsmanship is as good as in the books and it can be passed on for many years to come.

Since making the dresses the temperature has dropped again and dress wearing will have to wait - maybe on the weekend?

Note to my mum - I was able to send on one large bag and a box full of soft/other toys to the charity bin so we have almost de-cluttered the house now - and just think I have a few less metres of unused fabric (these were from my pile)

This Is......what I want to be when I grow up.

2008-09-21T03:24:00.000-07:00

I had to think about this for a little while but not too long - I really believe I am living the life I always hoped for.
It was always my dream to be a mum. I can remember way back when I was 5 years old playing in houses where there were little babies and cuddling them and trying to look after them.

I trained as a child care worker then went on to become an Early Childhood worker continuing on with the looking after kids theme- my favourite age to work with would be 6months - 2year olds and spent much of my working life making a profession caring for many little mites - most of whom still touch my heart and it scares me to think some of these would be in their early twenties now.

I must say that I am very much loving my 3 year old and have found her great nature and wonderful personality to be easy to hang with - my 8 year old is a little more challenging and I need to sometimes stop and remember she is still little and in need of guidance and boundaries without negativity (Bronte can be extremely sensitive and this can prove patience pushing).

Sometimes the boundary between motherhood and profession blur and I think I should be more than a mum/carer, I have a desire to be a business woman/fashion designer/craft extraordinaire but mentally that all seems too far away/too hard/not me - I feel like my mind is a blur of a little bit of this and a little bit of that - but when I truly look at everything I love it comes down to anything child focused of quality -My girls really enable me to be immersed in my love - KIDS.

Thanks to bugandpop for choosing this weeks theme a great one to reflect on.

What do you want to be when you grow up - are you/have you fulfilled your dreams?

Rental Nightmare in Sydney

2008-09-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

MMMMM If you haven't already read from my previous posts, we are on the hunt for a new home......and boy is the market frightening.

Today I turned up at this house
and there were about 100 families waiting to go through - even with a 40 minute wait on getting the door opened there were still about 50 groups going through and the photo does the property justice, it was not jumping out saying try and take me.....

as I was driving home passing another open house (crossed off my viewing list as it said NO PETS) I thought I would stop in just to satisfy my curiosity) Well it was gorgeous, I want to live there BUT what do we do with our beloved cat Jessie - How could I move my kids, turn their lives upside down with new schools etc. and leave their pet behind.....Anyone looking for a fat Black Cat?

Last on our list was this very large family home with a price at the top of our range I am not sure what to do - It has all the space we could use but it was quite higgilty piggilty a bit of a Harry Potter Home - what I thought was a linen cupboard in the dining area was actually a secret bathroom, complete with bath. The pantry (fitted out similarly to that in a restaurant) next to the kitchen hidden behind a door was a large under stair cupboard and half of the roof was turned into a loft complete with a great tunnel cubby hiddy hole the kids had a ball running through the house finding all the hidden rooms but it truly was not everything we are looking for - But was close enough for Bruce to get to work without having to pass through one set of traffic lights (YES he was very keen on this aspect and it is only around the corner from where he was raised)

included 3 Lock up garages in 2 buildings and a yard at the side of the property which was big enough for another house........ this is the front room which begins it's individuality......

This house has the potential for a great play room for the kids complete with inside cubby and tunnel, I could have my own sewing/computer room, a family art room, a study for Bruce But it is much need of a week long clean and a paint would be nice (only they want an extra $125/week for the painting) so we would forgo the painting.

We have been through others which are too small/short term lease only/ on or about to go on the market for sale/NO PETS/too expensive etc etc.....

Should we take the Harry Potter House in the nice area which is big but but....but? I would love any assistance in making my mind up.

This is.....what I do with a spare 10 minutes.

2008-09-14T05:24:00.000-07:00

10 Spare minutes? Yes I can find 10 spare minutes generally once the kids are in bed I find many more minutes to play with - I could use them to clean, unclutter, make lunches but instead I can be found doing one of many things - crafting, blogging or more so reading other more talented bloggers, flicking through a mag, or watch trash TV -yes I am a bit of a sucker for the box....

On Saturday The girls and I had a few spare hours at the most perfect little kiddies beach (Palm Beach Sanctuary Point - 3 hours from home)

Unfortunately over the next few weeks any spare minutes will be taken up with house hunting - Yes the rental market in Sydney is enough to send even the sanest insane - packing, cleaning and uncluttering and wishing I had done more in the wasted spare minutes of life - that is until we are resettled and all those spare minutes lure me away from work.

Thanks to Hoppo Bumpo for suggesting this weeks theme. If you have a spare 10 minutes and would like to read what other's do with their spare 10 minutes head on over to three buttons to see who's playing.

Life as a Refugee

2008-09-09T07:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took Bronte out of school for the afternoon to take her to Sydney Olympic Park to learn about life in a a refugee camp set up by Medecins Sans Frontieres Australia Whilst the kids didn't quite get it all, it was a good learning tool - I was both amazed and shocked by the experience.
Learning that refugees often arrive at camps set up by this privately funded organisation with volunteer doctors, nurses and other personal through extreme conditions. one at camp families are set up in a very small tent with each person being allocated 20 litres of water per day and a small plate of rice, maize and beans - mixed with a mixture of water and oil - there is no green vegies, fruits or meats. Once a camp is a little more settled more permanent structures are set up - the aim is to provide 3 square meters per person which is rarely met. An aim of 1 toilet per 20 people is allocated and is set up close to tents to encourage use. Illnesses and various outbreaks are common as is malnutrition in young children.

Tours were provided free of charge by returned field workers, their time and effort was worth while and very much an eye opener. There are 2 more camp set up's in Australia during September - click on the above link to see where.

The task of collecting water for each family member is often given to the girl in the family at about 7 - 8 years of age - often having to carry this water up to 500 metres - here Bronte can barely lift it.
During our visit Sydney Morning Herald Photographer Peter Rae took some shots of the girls playing inside the tent and one of his remarkable photo's (quite large) was featured on page 3 of the most read papers in Sydney headed Sydney shock: a refugee camp at Olympic Park - National - smh.com.au I also very much agree with his caption on this pic this tent was rather tiny, I have to duck down to squeeze through the opening and the bed behind was not long enough for Bronte to stretch out.

They are also featured in the related multimedia - Life in a refugee camp. http://www.smh.com.au/interactive/2008/national/refugee-camp-msf-2008/index.html

As it happens when I arrived home from this trip my husband had news of our owners selling our house so we are now in the process of having to find new accommodation - I could not even com template living in a tent and the thought of downsizing any accumulated furniture is daunting enough, let alone the number of weeks we have to search for suitable accommodation. Some food for thought.

Hold that thought.

2008-09-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

50 scrappy fabric bag bookmarks made for Bronte's school fete

Roses

Photography through the eyes of a 3yr old

These roses are over 1 week old and still look great

Father's Fun Day

2008-09-07T06:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day DaddyHe thinks he's in heaven with a Wonderful Family Day to Wisemans Ferry about 1 hour north west of home.

Rides on Tea Cups,

And a view to die for (Overlooking Wisemans Ferry) And what do you do when you get home from a great day out?
Sit in the car and have a pouting photography session -He wants a house in the bush? OH!

but to top off Father's Day a Yummy Daddy's favourite Roast Lamb with roast potatoes, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, carrots and beans, followed by fresh strawberries and ice cream puts a smile back on thier faces.

This is....My favourite band of all time.

2008-09-07T04:24:00.000-07:00

One Hit Wonders.

I saw these guys perform in Martin Place Ampitheatre in the early 90's on my lunch break and fell in love. They are a Sydney Covers band who play various one hit wonders - some of my favourites are -
My Sharona -The Knack
Turning Japanese - The Vapours
Tainted Love - Soft Cell
Come on Eileen - Dexy's Midnight Runners
I Love Rock & Roll - Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
What I like about you - The Romantics
500 Miles - The Proclaimers
I want your love - Transvision Vamp
The Impression that I get - The Mighty Bossstones
Video Killed the Radio Star - The Buggles
Black Betty - Ram Jam

To be honest though I have only seen this band play twice - one in the city and the second time a few years ago accidentally on a night out with the hubby but all the same they are great and play great music.

I have never been one to develop a strong commitment to a band/musician/genre and instead am happy to listen to a variety of music as long as I like the sound. My taste in music has changed and changes depending on my lifestyle and whats on around me at the time and I have to say that Top 40 hits have generally always been my general listening habits as they are familiar due to commercialism. Some music from the past I still enjoy like the above mentioned and more and some music which I loved growing up makes me cringe and recall crazy times in my life which I would rather forget about.

Thanks to CurlyPops for thinking of this weeks This Is theme, challenging me to think about my past.

Cupcakes on a rainy day

2008-08-31T06:01:00.000-07:00

Miranda's 3rd Birthday Party
Theme: Strawberry Cupcakes

Inspiration: My beautiful girls and the cupcake idea came from gigglepotamus

Not Such a great day for a planned outdoor party but with some furniture rearanging, decorations and a few cancellations and an indoor party is a winner.
The weather did clear for some wet outdoor play and cake eating.

Some Ingredints for a fun filled party
This Fantastic Lolly tree was made by my clever mum and Bronte and was a recreation from my 8th birthday (I have never forgotten that party or the tree)
some decorations
Some Party BagsPlaying with friends and family

Some Presents

It's in the smile and the eyes

2008-08-25T05:53:00.000-07:00

I just love these faces - of course I am bias.

Bronte has the biggest smile which always makes me happy.

Miranda's icy blue eyes can chill anyone - they are so intense and there sure is alot going on behind them.

Working week

2008-08-19T06:56:00.000-07:00

This week I have had the challenge to create a unisex newborn gift.
Here are 2 complete coordinating sets I have come up with.

1. 0000 onesie, booties and bib yellow fabric with stars
2. 0000 onesie, 0000 pants, bib, booties complete with gift bag. I adore this fabric.

I have enjoyed creating these, some thoughts for my quiet etsy store.

This is...How we spend our weekends

2008-08-17T06:17:00.000-07:00

MMMM Our weekends are never the same, lately my weekend has been rather indulgent with lazy sleep in's while Bruce gets the kids up and fed. Sometimes a little shopping trip alone or with Bronte. maybe a trip to a market, occasionally into the city or a trip to Sydney Olympic Park

This weekend there was little sleeping in Saturday morning was spent visiting Parramatta's brand new Farmer's Markets - a new local hit with some stalls selling out by 10:30am, The girls enjoyed a play in the park and I had a very yummy bacon and organic egg roll.
In the afternoon Bruce had the girls while I rushed off to Spotlight to make RED AND WHITE scarves and hats for the Swans Game Bruce was taking Bronte to - on return Bronte commented "Mummy your scarf was so beautiful that someone stole it"

Sunday was Little Athletics registration which will now fill Saturday mornings and Bronte was off to her friends for a play before tutoring.

Next week I am excited to be heading off to the Stitches and Craft Show ( just a hop around the corner) - all I need to do is decide on whether to go 1 or 2 days and which day to go, Bronte enjoys crafts shows so will be by my side for a day.

Thank you to The Bird Bath for selecting this weeks theme, to see how other's like to spend their weekends go to three buttons for their links.

I think I lost my Mojo!

2008-08-11T22:02:00.000-07:00

And I am thinking the GYM has it hidden somewhere???? HUMPH!

I signed up for a 1 year membership yesterday so I am hoping it will not be hidden for another year.

I have managed to do some sewing and creative work and here is my weekend WIP a Birthday Doll Quilt for my soon to be little 3 year old - where has the time gone?

This quilt was reproduced after creating the quilt in this post for my niece's 3rd Birthday.

The colours were inspired by the vintage sheet used in the pieced backing, each centre square and binding - originally going to be used as sashing but looked too messy - The white sashing worked well and made for a great work space for some stitching - little dolls with dresses in blue, purple, green & pink to match the quilt colours - orange hair and blue eyes for my little red head.

Sunday Lunch on the Beach

2008-08-06T05:45:00.000-07:00

Celebrating 3 Birthday's with Bruce's family on the coast.

2008-07-27T03:28:00.000-07:00

The Recipe For sarah

3 parts Tolerance
2 parts Vitality
1 part Wisdom

Splash of Aspiration

Sip slowly on the beach

What's" the Recipe for Your Personality?

This was...my birthday week

2008-07-25T22:26:00.000-07:00

I have been absent from my blog for a few weeks now...sorry to any regular readers. In that time I celebrated yet another year of my life and this Birthday was great.

It started with mum coming down from Brisbane and going to see Billy Elliot at The Capitol Theatre in the city after a yummy Sushi Train dinner.

A Gold Class trip to the cinemas with mum and Bronte to see Mama Mia.

An evening out with my husband eating Pizza and watching "Children of the Silk Road"

Lastly a yummy birthday cake and some fun pressies. - I thought Bronte's weekend Birthday bash was extravagant but mine topped it.

Celebrating in the city.

Give yourself some billboard attention at PhotoFunia

New Clothes

2008-07-03T05:46:00.001-07:00

new outfit
Originally uploaded by SarahC3202

The beauty about being able to sew is making unique, one off clothing at a fraction of the cost to buy them and often better quality, - I really loved how this outfit turned out and the store bought top really blends in well.

Fairies New Clothes

2008-06-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

Off to The Fairies show in her new Simplicity Costumes for Kids Pattern 3680 - the wings were made without pattern using the same fabric as the dress and tulle overlay.

I am very happy with the outcome of this sewing project - seams are French finished and I was able to master a narrow hem - the trick is to sew 1/4" from edge and fold over press and sew - the stitching helped stiffen the fabric for a second fold.

Fabric was a bargain at Spotlight for $3.00/metre so a very inexpensive and to be worn well outfit.

The Fairies Show was a hit with great songs and audience participation.

Postal Packages

2008-06-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

This week the postman has been rather generous with his parcels and I have received
A lovely Pay it Forward gift from Amanda A beautiful red floral tote a broach and some tags

Thanks Amanda this is a wonderful gift.

A summery Apron from Grace Street Studio for the Summer Sassy Apron Swap - Note the chocolate spot - I have worn the apron all week and it is very useful.

And my Brown Owls faraway package, I love the vintage fabric and think I will use these colours to embroider my badges.

I still have 2 PIF gifts to giveaway so if you would like to recive a gift from head over to my Pay it Forward post and make a comment - the first 2 to comment and are willing to play the game will get something from me.

This is...the space in which I create

2008-06-15T04:26:00.000-07:00

I spend much of my time in this space (our dining room), my sewing machine sits on the table and I work around it. My fabric and all of my bits and pieces are in the cupboard and in the corner stock piling - I am thinking about a tall narrow unit to store my fabrics in like so many I see in blogs but I am frightened of buying any more furniture as I already have too much stuff - I also spend lots of my time creating/gaining inspiration/finding patterns on my computer in a room just to the right - and without a printer - use the monitor as a light box.
Thanks to quiltingmick for this weeks theme.

MC Hammer Returns

2008-06-14T02:28:00.001-07:00

"Can't Touch This"
Bronte is a part of her school Junior Dance Troupe and after auditioning won a place in the great area dance festival along with many other local primary and high school. They performed at The Hills Centre on Wed night and Thursday evening. I was lucky enough to get a front row seat and when Bronte's group came out to dance Bronte spent most of the dance directly in front of me - it was spectacular and the 80's return was well produced by the group of 30 5-9 year olds.

Cats in Paris

2008-06-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

I have been busy sewing over the last few weeks and have a number of projects which are in need of some photo shoots (I need some photography lessons) and postings. Here are 2 completed outfits ready for wear by the long and short - using the Ruffled Skirts Tutorial generously posted by Grand Revival Design Bronte has a new and very original outfit to wear to her Australian Girls Choir Winter showcase next week and Miranda will be wearing hers to her cousins 3rd Birthday tomorrow.The Skirts were very simple to make - I made a few adjustments/additions (just need to remember when sewing 2 different sizes to keep them apart - my unpicker was used to tear apart 1 roll of cotton as top 1 got sewn to top 2 as it was mistaken for ruffle 1). I love the way the appliqued tops turned out using the fabric picture and my own Eiffel Tower Silhouette.

This is......My Favourite Travel Memories

2008-06-08T06:06:00.000-07:00

I have many travel memories spanning my life most have involved high adrenalin fast paced rides.

So these are some of my most recent holiday memories -

On my last trip to New Zealand (Jan 07) I took Bronte (7yrs) on the Jet Boat ride travelling at high speeds along a river very close to large rocks had me hanging on to Bronte for dear life (you can just see her in the picture below-3rd row). The luge which was much tamer was great fun and provided liots of laughs all while being able to take in the magnificent views of Queenstown

In July of 07 we got to experience the thrill of The Gold Coast attractions of Dreamworld
-going on rides like The Tower of Terror (A family affair), The Claw and Wipeout (Yes Bronte came on all these rides too) and Movie World - Superman (going from 0-100kms in 2 seconds), Leathal Weapon and Scooby-Doo (A roller coaster in the dark)

An anniversary dinner to Dracula's" Cabaret Restaurant during this trip will never be forgotten.

Of course our Honeymoon to Vanuatu and my first trip overseas to Bali were also very memorable.

Thanks to Hila who has chosen the topic for this is.... meme initiated by three buttons

This Is.....Our Pet

2008-05-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

I am back on track with my This is meme - Our Pet.This is Jessie, he was bought for Bronte for her 4th Birthday present but has really become Bruce's/everyones cat. He is a monster of a cat weighing in at 8kg's and is always instructed to go on a diet by his Dr. But since Miranda has found out how to feed him a diet is a hopeless cause. Jessie was heavier than Miranda for 2 years and when she was a little baby I was very nervous about him being near her bed.

He loves to lie in the sun or curl up on the bed and sleep - and of course He LOVES to EAT!

Up until a few months ago we also had a pet Cockaroach but the pest man killed him :( He was very low maintenance but great to watch.

Blog Hibernation

2008-05-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

Hiding away where nobody sees.....

OK well I have been here, reading not writing.

If you haven't read, I joined the gym 3 weeks ago now and have managed to get there 4 times each week, and whilst I am able to drag myself there I am finding the rest of the day is spent racing around catching up on the 2 hours lost walking on the spot.

SO my days goes something like Wake, eat, dress x3, race Bronte to school, race to the gym, drop Miranda at Creche do about 1 1/2 hours exercise, drive 15mins to Miranda's activity, feed her the remaining lunch, maybe race around the shop, cook dinner, pick up Bronte/wait till she gets home, feed the kids, race to drop Bronte to her activities and then come home and do the night thing with Miranda, get Bronte settled when she gets in and the sit down.

On the sewing front I have finished a few projects.

1st Summer Sassy Apron Swap

I really love how this apron has turned out so here is the finished product heading off over the oceans far away.

2nd Birthday Gifts

My niece is turning 3 in a few weeks and she loves dolls but has way too many so here are some doll accessories I have made

A wonky log cabin doll quilt, matching pillow, some fitted cloth nappies and I plan to make a sleeping bag as both her and her sister sleep in these.

The pillow is my favourite - I quilted each log and it really stands out.

Home Amongst the Gum Trees.

2008-05-16T22:57:00.000-07:00

Some of Australia's nature relaxing in the midst of the rat race called Sydney. A visit to Sydney Aquarium and Sydney Wildlife World allowed us to take in some nature in the city.
I love this pic of Bronte
And Miranda

Much ado about craft.

2008-05-13T06:35:00.000-07:00

My little hand have been very busy this week creating many little projects.

Bias Tape

First there was the need to obtain 7 yard of bias tape for my apron - I decided on the make your own approach as I had bought the coordinating fabric and just could not bring myself to using that pre packaged stuff (I'm on a polyester diet) so after trying to work out how to do it a number of ways I found a great tutorial (I have lost the link but will post when I find it) I practiced on some red, and seeing that work make my pink here it is 25 metres of Bias in less than 24hours

Flower Dotee

A flower dotee for a flower dotee swap on swap-bot

Bookmarks

Some handcrafted bookmarks using golden books for an anything goes bookmark swap over at swap-bot

Apron Progress and Bias in use.

Gym

Oh and I joined the gym on Monday morning with my mother's day gift certificate and am now paying someone so that I can WALK - I am baffled as to why I need to pay gym fees to walk when I could do the walking in the time that it would take me to drive there and back. But hey so far 2 days out of 2, (and it means I do not have to listen to Miranda cry and complain about sitting in a stroller or for that matter push a stroller at all) It was an effort to make myself exercise today as my body was a little sore but I have managed 2 days in a row to walk 2.3km, cycle 5km and cross train 2.?km - does that mean I get more ice cream tonight :) Now I have to decide weather to have a break tomorrow or just push myself and see if I can make it to the gym 4-5 days on my first week HHMMM would that create burnout??? I will decide how I feel in the morning and let fate decide by weather or not I can obtain a creche spot.

I will spare you photos on me walking on the tread mill but watch out because If I can manage to refrain from the ice cream I will surely be posting pics.

This is......My MUM

2008-05-10T23:35:00.001-07:00

The theme for this weeks This is....of course is My Mum, in celebration of Mother's Day and recognising all that they are and have done for us.

My mum was only 16 when she had me and by the time she was 19 had my brother as well, she moved from her families home to Wellington New Zealand where we were born, then moved to the fast paced life of Sydney with no money, 2 small children an urgent need to find work, day care and friendship. We lived in Kings Cross with my dad at this time and then onto Rose Bay.

My mum has always worked hard (sometimes even 2 jobs) to try to give us everything we could have wanted, by the time I was 8 years old my parents had separated and my mum raised us alone from then on. As our immediate family are still mostly in New Zealand, my mum has been our family support almost single handed.

I have many fond memories of going on weekend picnics, rowing at Audley, Birthdays at Luna Park and a Hotel Room with friends - and many surprise birthdays. I also have memories of mum sewing my clothes, dress up costumes and trying to teach my to knit, latchhook.

Mum enjoyed entertaining and always had friends over for BBQ's or parties and she was a great cook and still is.

Mum is a hard worker, has alot of common sense and the ability to do almost anything from painting her house to embroidery on a blanket. She loves to go out and party as well as spend hours in the garden. Life for my mum has been tough having to do many things on her own without too much support but through all of this she has instilled in us good ethics, kindness to others and to be inclusive of others - we were often the hosts of the orphaned Christmas/special occasion lunches, and It is because of her that I am the person I am today.

With me as a baby -1974

Striking a pose
Now a Grandma -with Bronte in 2000 On our Husky Holiday in April.

Happy Mother's Day mum, I hope you enjoyed The Tenors.

We Love you.

...And here is what I got from my beautiful children today

2 hand made cards, bracelet, bookmark, compact mirror, a drawing.

As well as a sleep in, breakfast on waking (I am one for eating in bed), and a cosy day at home sorting my photo folders.

And as requested a 3 month Gym membership......MMMM now I will most certainly have to get down there and try to get back into some sort of shape.

TV Stardom

2008-05-10T06:38:00.000-07:00

Do you remember my Easter Show posting way back in March? Bronte was filmed talking to Nicky Buckley from Talk to the Animals and Miranda was filmed with various animals.
Well today we were sitting in the lounge just after the show started and it was the first time since they were filmed that I have remembered to check so I told Bronte to turn on the TV to check on the slight possibility and guess what there was Bronte sitting in this shot....

we missed any talking but Miranda also came on scratching with the chickens, and ending the segment by reaching out to brush a sheep - HOW EXCITING! And I must say my clothing creation sure looked great on set :)

Up Close and Personal.

2008-05-08T22:39:00.001-07:00

The infamous Australian Red Back Spider crawling its way across our soft esky bag.
Whilst the Red Back Spider's bite is deadly statistics have it that no one has been a victim of it's deadly bite since the antivenom was introduced over 50 years ago.
Trying to get a macro of this little thing was getting a little hairy.

An Apron Swap Geek in Sewing Classes.

2008-05-06T05:54:00.000-07:00

Today for the first time in my life I am proud to be called a Geek! Not because I am all of a sudden proud to be a geek but because tonight whilst at sewing classes (my first night) I was called a geek for the first time in my life - when asked by another student what I was making I replied an apron for a swap, after explaining I was called a geek.

I am again participating in The Sassy Apron Swap (I am yet to recieve and still in hope of getting my Spring Apron) - This time a summer Apron.

Here are my plans for my Summer Apron which I have commited to valuable weekly sewing classes to complete.

Tonight I learnt about nap, one way and two way fabrics, how to read a pattern, how to position it ready to cut and boy was I sewing with my eyes shut - I dare not go through all the clothes I have punished my daughter with wearing over the past 2 years.

Bend the Rules I dare not!

Pay it Forward

2008-05-05T06:11:00.000-07:00

Yeah I was very lucky to get a chance at reciving a special PIF gift after being a first 3 to make a comment on Amanda's blog. Amanda will be listing her creations almost daily on her etsy site so I am excited to see what I will get. I love to get parcels in the post. (Thanks mum I got the towels, sheets etc left behind on our holiday)

Would you like to recive a gift from me???
Someone will have a chance to get a surprise from me, on a surprise date, in the next 365 days.Here are the rules:
1.~Leave a comment on my blog that says you want to play. First three folks to comment will get a gift from ME. (If I don't know it already, let me know how I can contact you, an e-mail is fine.)
2.~Do the same thing on your blog!The first three folks who leave a comment and commit to doing this on their blog, too, will get a surprise from YOU at a surprise time in the next 365 days!

Chicken Scratch bookmarks

2008-05-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

A big thank you to Kerri Made for posting a great tutorial on chicken scratch bookmarks. I joined an anything goes bookmark swap and was lucky enough to find this tutorial on Sew Mama Sew recently. After talking to my Nana in New Zealand yesterday about it - she remembered her sister in laws lovely detailed chicken scratch tablecloth so, I decided to make my Nana a bookmark too.

Here are my completed weekend chicken scratch bookmarks

detailed embroidery

This is...the pair of shoes I would sleep in if I could.

2008-05-04T04:33:00.000-07:00

My contribution to the this is.. meme has been a little sporadic of late, as has my blog in general. I guess the monotony of everyday life has kept me busy and well I have not felt quite up to sharing over the past weeks - but life here has been busy with all the norms as well as some extras thrown in between.

Last week I got the joyous privilege of babysitting my 2 nieces (nearly 3yr old & 1yr old) and whilst the day was very busy/hectic is was great fun and a great honour - here is Miranda and Sophie doing a spot of painting during the day

This weeks theme for the this is meme hosted by three buttons was brought to you from Hip Hop & Banana Bread. a newbie on the blog front.

I am not much of a shoe person except that I find it hard to find nice shoes to fit and match my clothing - I am much better in the fashion department for my daughters than myself so whilst these are not shoes they are my socks that I do not go to bed without - I would have to agree with my daughter Miranda (2yrs) quote "I really really love my socks!"

Along with the This is Meme this week three buttons suggested a flash back Friday pic post 1985 as well so this is me in about 1977/78. This photo was taken with my little brother whist at day care in Woolloomooloo I was between 3-4 years old. I still have memories of this centre and remember we used to love standing up on the top floor looking down over the rail line into Kings Cross station watching the men on pushing the hand cart thingy along the rail line (As an adult pre children I worked at this centre and in this very room - the old dentists room - one of the ladies who cared for me was still there 19years later), I also remember going to the dentist there and getting little cotton log butterflies after the visit.

I hope to be a little less sporadic in my posts over the coming weeks.

School Holiday Rainy Days

2008-04-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

We are coming to an end of school holidays with only 4 days to go before school returns and almost 2 weeks of rain means finding something indoors to occupy the kids to prevent them from drawing all over the walls. It seems that every parent and child in Sydney is out and about looking for indoor things to do.

Today I decided I would pile my two girls into the car and head to the Museum - After stalling 3 times on the way to the city and then seeing the line to get into the museum down the street and around the corner I thought that turning around and going home would provide more sanity than walls with drawing on them, especially for my high and very warranted anxiety of stalling in the middle of an intersection and getting hit by on coming traffic.

My car has stalled a few times now and once died on a main road - I was lucky to roll it into the nearest side street, but It amazes me how people beep at people who's cars have stopped in the middle of the road - do they really think that a person chooses to stop their car in the middle of a main road to potentially be rear ended

After some deliberation and a few more stalls I was about to turn left and return home when I decided I would head straight and into the direction of the Art Gallery. My nerves were not quite up to the drive home through the city.

It was a good decision and we enjoyed the Archibald Prize 2008 Exhibition,
here are a few of our favourites in order of most favoured -

We enjoyed a bite to eat, a show for the kids and a stroll through the gallery before heading home to beat peak hour traffic and the potential onslaught of angry motorists being held up on their long weekend by a mother and her two kids in a car broken down in the middle of Anzac Bridge! My trip home was filled with much anxiety, many prays and no stalling incidents - I have booked the car into the mechanic ASAP!

Have a great Anzac Long Weekend.

Catching up with an old friend

2008-04-22T05:53:00.000-07:00

Bronte really enjoyed catching up with her old friend Jack on our beach holiday - they got on like a lost pair of old socks.

2002

2008

This is...My latest discovery

2008-04-20T05:11:00.000-07:00

Way behind in my postings, and a missed This is....Sorry to you all but I have been playing on the South Coast of NSW (Jervis Bay) with my mum and 2 beautiful daughters and have had no computer access.

A little wet and cool for swimming (I also lost my swimmers in the pack) but lots of beach walks, catching up with friends, op shopping, and knitting........my latest discovery - that I suck at knitting.I took the needles and wool with me but then forgot how to cast on, mmmmm purl????? I remembered Yarn over :) Oh I managed to make this teeny face cloth using this book before I left but without this book I can't knit!

What a week!

2008-04-11T05:58:00.000-07:00

WOW! This week has been big and yet it has been yet another average week with all the usual happenings an a few extras thrown in.

Monday morning I had a meeting followed by an afternoon of cooking - 3 dinners, and a carrot cake. with our meals prepared I can relax a little (so I had hoped). Bronte - to Gymnastics in the evening.
Miranda felt the 10 minutes was enough of an afternoon rest and came to help cook UM MM celery

She cooks

Tuesday I again found myself in the kitchen baking Choc Chip cookies and a batch of Cookie Monster basic cookie dough (I was hoping to have it ready for an afternoon activity with Bronte's friend coming - it is still untouched in the fridge).
Miranda decided today she would not rest and came to make music whilst I baked.
She is musical

Bronte to Choir - parent demonstration class - I spent about 30 mins watching Bronte and her class mates singing and after Miranda tripped a little girl up I quickly removed myself and the overtired toddler and headed home.

Wednesday - a quick trip to Spotlight, a funeral - Bruce's Poppa died after living a very rewarding and successful life to 94yrs young, Miranda's dance lessons - another parent demonstration lesson. This time the toddler ran around the room in circles (OH MY is she going to do this up on stage at the end of the year in front of hundreds of parents?)

Miranda is seen running across the back of the class in yellow and blue.
She dances

Followed by a family dinner with Bruce's siblings - a nice evening but such a long day.

Such a great surprise awaited our arrival in the post on Wednesday Bronte has been nominated by her Choir teacher to audition for a solo/special part in the winter showcase and also to receive an Outstanding Achievement Award - It makes me so happy to know she is doing so well at singing and it is recognised by her teacher.

And to finish off this busy day I made another cotton backed fleece blanket and bag for my teeny niece's 1st birthday

Thursday - Gymbaroo, coffee with a friend and a visit from Grandma - My mum is down for a week and we are heading off for a beach holiday for the school holidays. Bronte Jazz, Ballet & Tap and again another parent demonstration class.

Today I received this cute Kentucky Local Dotee from a swap - she is very cute and is all decked out with hoses and riding paraphernalia.

Friday- Swimming lessons for Miranda, Ikea, back to swimming lessons for Bronte. Coffee with a friend and completion of my knitted washcloth! (MMMM It's is a little small) It has taken 3 days to knit and not at all relaxing in any way shape or form - I am looking forward to using it and seeing what all the fuss is about.

she knits

And She's a photographer

'This is.....my knack knick/jewellery box'.

2008-04-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

It is a rainy day in Sydney today, the clocks have been turned back 1 hour for day light savings, it is 12pm (new time) I am just dressed and thought I would get my this is....meme started by three buttons in early.

What a great theme for me today This is....my knack knick Jewellery box - I am off to a jewellery party in a few hours but am not in the need for new jewellery as I very rarely wear this stuff here so I am sure I will not have anything to add to my box.

My knack knick jewellery is all looming around in a shoe box - I realised I bought 3 different jewellery sets for my wedding in 04 and decided I will regularly wear one of the necklaces I have not yet worn.

As a creature of habit I have been wearing a pair of small gold hoop earrings since my mum gave them to me for my 21st and have at times worn different necklaces for long stints.
Occasionally I get out some of this to wear and some of it was just bad consumerism.

Past weeks Mother's Day Stall crafting

2008-04-05T05:59:00.001-07:00

Here are the projects I have been working on over the past weeks in preparation for Bronte's School Mother's Day Stall I have priced them all between $2 - $4 as this is the range of prices given to the kids to make buying their mum's something affordable. (All the money goes to the school as fundraising)

2 Tea Cosies with my own tea cup applique using a pattern from Amy Karol's Bend the Rules Sewing

4 Needle Cases using Sewprimkhris tutorial with a little adjustment - my flower did not work well so I used our dinner and side plates to create a circular needle case which worked just as well and for me a little less challenging.

5 Pin Cushions using paper.string.cloth tutorial I had to be more precise in my cutting as the free form did not work for me. I especially LOVED the button sewing technique this is just the best way to sew on buttons.

6 Compact Stitching Purse with needle case found it a thrifted Patchwork and Stitching mag using some great suiting fabric which I found in an op shop (I got about 5 m for about $1) I plan to make a bag with it - and much more.

5 sets of Hair clips and ties

4 sets of glass magnets - Thanks to Lauren for the tutorial - not as good as hers -I used fabric.

3 Tea Towel 1/2 Aprons - just added some cotton tape and 2 darts in the front.

I have really enjoyed finding these little project tutorials and making them all - Thanks to everyone who puts tutorials out there to share.

Last Minute Birthday Sewing.

2008-04-04T06:03:00.000-07:00

Where has this week gone - It feels like it is still Monday. I have spent this week finishing off some sewing projects for the Mother's day stall at Bronte's school - I will post some pics tomorrow.

Tonight I have been busy making
2 cotton backed fleece blankets with a drawstring bag each
4 Bean bags with covers with small drawstring bag

Which are my last minute gift sewing for Bruce's cousin's son's 1st Birthday tomorrow. The second blanket is for his big brother.

I was lucky to find this great fabric at $10 for the rest of the bolt - about 5 metres.... at my local quilting fabric shop and with a metre of fleece I made my blanket. There must be a trick to sewing fleece to cotton but I did not find it. I would have loved to do a little bit of machine quilting to this to keep it together more but it would have buckled too much.

So for under $20 I have some great gifts and I still have just over 1 metre of this great fabric left for some more projects.

This is....The contents of my handbag

2008-03-31T04:34:00.000-07:00

A little late with this one - we were out at the Easter Show again yesterday and after 12 1/2 hours I was not ready to photograph and post about the contents of my handbag - wish I had left it packed to blog the contents of yesterday's bag but being proficient it was all unpacked before going to bed.

Here is the contents of my everyday backbag which was featured in This is...my Favourite Accessory.”

Nappy and Wipes - this is my nappy bag as well as handbag
Notebook - No Pen
Brochures - GymbaROO info for next term, next swim club meet info, school holiday tutoring timetable.
Petrol receipt - $70.01 (40 litre tank) WOW petrol is just so expensive these days.
Purse + little purse - (to fit in pocket) used yesterday at the show.
A few tampons
Mobile phone
small change
Extra Drops & gum - my hubby works for Wrigley - it is good to see some of you with eclipse in your bags it means I can keep looking after the girls.
Cookie Man coffee card - for the all needed coffee
Littlest Pet Shop Turtle - he snuck in on Friday afternoon

This weeks This is theme was thought up by Iris + Lily...to see what others have in their bags check out the list of blogs at three buttons

Socks for Miranda

2008-03-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

Bed time last night went something like this

"Mummy's bed likes to eats socks - hop in our bed or mummy's bed will eat your socks"
"OK"....................

so still on the sock thing after a good nights sleep
It seems Miranda's bed also likes to eat socks as my morning wake up call this moring was whined out

"Where's my socks"

"I REALLY REALLY love my socks!"

Now I just need to find a way to keep them on.

Meet "Sydney" Opera House

2008-03-29T05:04:00.000-07:00

She will be heading off to South Australia on Sunday as a part of a Swap I joined - just so I could make her.

This is my first dotee doll and she was inspired of course by the Sydney Opera House. The sails as her head, sequence tiles. The use of red, lace, pearls were my imagery of opera and of course she is singing.

I had to make the body and embroidery 3 times before using felt and cream cotton and was not happy with the plain cream cotton so the added sequence on the sails were an after thought - but make it similar to the tiles used on the opera house - they are truly amazing up close.

I hope she will be loved by her new owner - I am a little hesitant about sending her off so I can keep her to myself but I am sure I will receive something just as special in my post box soon.

I got to go inside the Syd. Opera House for the first time last November to watch my daughter sing as a part of the Australian Girls Choir Annual Concert - I was very excited and have fallen in love with it's glamour and amazing architecture ever since.

We were lucky enough to win Cirque Le Grande tickets in January so I can now say I have been to the Opera House twice. In November my daughter can say she has performed at the Opera House twice.

Tagged - 7 facts about me.

2008-03-26T21:48:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by gigglepotamus
Here are the rules
1. Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

I know I revealed 7 things not too long ago, but this is fun…. it kinda gets me thinking about who I really am… so, here it goes:

1. In 2003 I swam 800 metres Butterfly in 18 minutes and also a 400m butterfly in the same day - I went home with a very big headache but a strong sense of pride.

2. In 2003 I competed in Aussie Masters Games at the Institute of Sport in Canberra and came 1st in 100 & 200m Butterfly & 200m Freestyle and 3rd in 100m Freestyle for 25-29year age group - lucky for me there are not as many swimmers in this age group and my times did not even hit the mark for 30 - 35 years age groups. I did alot of swimming in 2002/3

3. I lost ALOT of weight in 2001/2 and since moving to Sydney and getting married have put it all back on again. Have stopped swimming etc. etc.

4. Since having my kids I have become a hypocondriac and continually worry about getting some terinal illness leaving my kids without a mother - this is my biggest fear.

5. Since moving to Sydney I have become a bit of a loner and tend to stick to myself alot - I worry about my kids not having too many people around/to surround them if anything happened to me or Bruce - and especially worry for Bronte.

6. I find parenting hard work but love being a mum more than anything in the whole world, I really find marriage the hardest thing ever and don't love being married so much......(well I find it rather challenging ARGH!)

7. Yes I worry too much, have self-esteem, attachment and separation issues and sometimes feel like a complete basket case and I wonder why no one gets me! Go Figure.....

OK! so the last 5 facts can be squished back into the box they came out of and hidden away....I think they stem from thinking about last weeks This is...theme by Drewzel
This is..... my Demon...I still have not posted my Demons as I have too many to think about so I would rather not think about them because points 3-7 are what happen when I stew too long on them.....

So I am off to find something to craft or do to rid those nasty thoughts from popping back and my next post unless it is the this is theme will be more positive and happy la la...

Oh if you wish to be tagged PLEASE leave me a comment I can not return this tag back to Gigglepotomus again LOL.....maybe I should be bold and just tag people I know in blog land.

Here is my list of people I have tagged
Sharon

Sydney Royal Easter Show 2008

2008-03-23T05:34:00.000-07:00

I am so excited as it s that time again. Yes the Easter Show is on and we only live 10 minutes away. I gave Bronte a day off school and we headed to the show for the first day!

I have discovered the first day is the best day of the show and this year it was even better. The 1st day of the show was quiet, no big queues, and the weather was great (it has since been rainy and overcast)
getting to vote for peoples choice in the fruit and veg display, my vote went to Central District -Happiness is.....complete with bubble machine - I loved the silhouettes. But they were all fabulous and it is just amazing how much detail is in these displays. The designers prepare for months and then it takes a team of people 2 weeks to create using paper machie, and local produce - most of the back drops are covered in various types of grain.

Bronte got to enter a meat pie decorating competition
and whilst in the animal nursery got filmed with Nicky Buckley for a spot on Talk to the Animals.

Bronte made a great friend with a calf and baby goat whom she sat with on separate occasions for a great lengths of time - the calf was so content with her that when she went back a second time he/she put it's head in her lap. I am sure this kid is only days old and so motionless that I feared his death - he had a pulse and lucky Bronte kept him safe and protected moving any harm gently away. Miranda chased all the animals around and had a ball brushing them.
-hence hundreds of tiny baby animals are hiding in the NO PEOPLE ALLOWED area wondering what on earth is going on - I really feel for these poor babies at the show waiting for crazed city kids to harass and pounce.
Our ride highlight (only 1) was the giant slide no pics as I was on the ride and I was very controlled and we missed the showbag pavilion but were lucky enough to be given a Dairy Farmers pack at the Woolworth's Fresh food cooking demo.

Miranda enjoyed Dora the Explora Show, Bronte and I loved the Hypnotist - I have never seen a hypnotist at work but I am sure addicted TOO FUNNY

After 12 hours at the show we were well and truly ready to come home and hit the sack. We will return within the fortnight as we are so close and got cheaper tickets for another day of fun.

Undermining the Toddler!

2008-03-20T20:10:00.000-07:00

"Miranda, STOP squishing playdough into the ground! Pick it all up please."
"They Puddles!"
MMM OK sorry put them back.

Eggsplorer James Cook.

2008-03-19T05:38:00.000-07:00

Eggsplorer James Cook(ed)

This is Bronte's submission into her schools Easter Eggshibition, she had to make an Eggsplorer and I thought it would be good to do a Fijian explorer but with only a few days we found that Captain James Cook heard from the Tongans that Fijians were Ferocious and Cannibals and whilst he had no troubles on his visit his stories deterred other explorers from Fiji and Fiji was left alone for a little while longer than other pacific islands. Ok so I helped a little bit on this one :P We will not get to see the Eggshibition as we are playing rookie to have fun at the Easter Show which starts tomorrow.

SUPRISE!

2008-03-16T19:04:00.000-07:00

I pulled up in my driveway after a morning Easter crafting to find a man unloading flowers in my drive???? He must have the wrong address or going to the neighbours - it's not my birthday and I have not done anything special for anyone! But he said Sarah? and Yep that is me! Who in the world would be sending ME flowers - they could only be from my husband - he must be feeling extra nice :)

(Easter Craft)

They were from Matt and Emilie, We looked after thier daughter Anastasia on Saturday night whilst they wattended a wedding - and had a last minute babysitting cancellation from thier mum.

Ana was excellent considering she had never been to our house - she had a play, watched lots of Playschool - including eating dinner infront of it, had a bath and went to bed without a fuss.

Thanks a bunch for the flowers, they are beautiful, it was a pleasure looking after Ana - I really loved being to help someone out.

I must say that Emilie cares for Miranda every friday whilst I go to Bible study so a night to me was nothing in return.

This is...my creation

2008-03-16T06:04:00.000-07:00

This weeks This is... theme is brought to you by Betty

So these are my most precious creations, ones I have created with the help of thier dads to guide through this crazy world, to protect, love, honour, cherish and adore and whilst they sometimes do not agree with what I do or how I do it, I do my best for them amd never stop loving them.

And here is a little applique I have created to become a teapot cosie for Bronte's schools Mother's Day stall. The needle and tread are still in waiting for stitching.

Brown - the colour of the week.

2008-03-12T21:43:00.000-07:00

Todays Challenge - wear brown clothes and brong brown food for Treasure Bag.
Miranda and I attend GymbaROO classes each Thursday and have been for 2 years now. Each term they focus on a diferent theme and this term it is colour and food which is the colur of the week.

I finally had motivation to sew up Miranda's new outfit last night which has been in the pile of projects to do for the past month.

The Pants are of course the my favourite pattern, and the peasant top was a comercial pattern which I tweeked quite a bit :( -I didn't draft the pattern though for next time. And Yeah it all fit perfectly with room to grow.

We took Brown bread to put into the treasure bag.

Toddler 101

2008-03-10T04:21:00.000-07:00

Wet Chalk Drawing on Black Artist paper is a great toddler craft activity.

Miranda spent over 1 hour crafting today. Cutting then ripping paper, pasting it then sticking with stickers. She is very methodical and would only put each sticker sheet on their own piece of paper.
Happenings through the week

Gumboots for all occasions.

Bag baby - It sure is hard to get out of the house with a baby!

Story time with Daddy

A tackle on Procrastination

2008-03-09T04:16:00.000-07:00

Yeah! I have completed 2 sewing projects which have been awaiting my attention.
Both from amy karol - Bend the Rules Sewing

1st - This sweet little jacket made for Miranda - the fabric was bought in winter/spring last year with this project in mind and now complete. I do not have a printer and hesitant to send yet another printing project to my husband so I did some of my own bending of rules and with a little measuring, guessing and drawing got this a perfect match to these sweet little pants made for winter 07 I have to say that both these patterns were super super easy even for the basic sewer and the pants are what got me started in sewing more. Miranda has quite a few of these pants in her wardrobe.

2nd - A quilt using Amy Butler prints in my favourite colour just for me. I made one for my mum for Christmas in the same fabrics but made sure I had enough to make me one too - Ok I am not quite finished I am 1/2 way through hand stitching the binding in place - I need lessons in whip stitch - no matter how many books I read I just can not work it out - but my stitch is working Ok.

This is....looking out my front door

2008-03-09T03:59:00.001-07:00

Looking out my front door I see my husbands car and a train going by, a freshly mowed lawn, a very unkept garden, a newly tared and guttered road and the sun going down (excuse the glare).

I was lucky with the timing here because I really wanted a shot with the train going by. I Love watching the train go by and when we first moved in got excited each time a train went past - I still enjoy watching the train especially at night when you can see the people in it. We are very lucky it is rather quiet and only an inbetween line so not too busy - but it can still be heard going at 1am.

and here is looking out my front door on a rainy day in Feb. blogged here

Thanks Brooke for your input this week.

Swap Confussion!

2008-03-04T19:40:00.000-08:00

Both my Apron Swap and Mini Swap were sent on Friday 22nd Feb - and I am excited my mini swap has arrived safely and can be seen open here.
But what in the world is gigglepotamus talking about - she loves the recipe - I was sure I didn't send her a recipe/what recipe did I send them???? an email later and I find I have sent gigglepotamus my apron swap recipe along with my mini swap! OK now I am nervous where did I send my apron swap.

ARGH! Dianna if you got your apron can you leave a comment PLEASE! and here is your lost soup recipe - for everyone to enjoy.

Chicken and Couscous Soup
Prep: 25mins
Total cooking: 30 mins
Serves: 6

1tbl olive oil
1 onion sliced
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground paprika
1 tsp grated ginger
1 clove crushed garlic
2 sticks celery, sliced
2 small carrots sliced
2 zucchini, sliced
4 ½ cups chicken stock
2 chicken breast fillets sliced
Pinch of saffron threads (optional)
½ cup instant couscous
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Heat oil in large heavy based pan. Add onion and cook over medium heat for 10 mins until very soft, stirring occasionally. Add the cumin, paprika, ginger and garlic and cook, stirring, for 1 minute further.

Add celery, carrot, zucchini and stir to coat with spices. Stir in the stick. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered for about 15mins or until the vegetables are tender.

Add the chicken and saffron threads (if you are using them) to the pan and cook for about 5 mins until the chicken is just tender; do not overcook. Stir in the couscous and chopped parsley and serve.

Cooks Note: add the couscous to the soup just before
serving: it absorbs liquid quickly and becomes very thick.

My family (including little ones) love this soup and it is nice and fresh for spring. I hope you get a chance to try it out.

I used Rosemary instead of cumin, paprika and ginger and tumeric instead of saffron as I did not have these and it was quite nice as well.