Lizzie

Jenny's gift.

2011-12-16T00:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone sooo sorry about the late hour of getting todays gift on the blog. Really busy day at work and we are in the process of buying a new home so lots waiting for attention when I arrived home.

This morning I picked up the wee parcel and was sure I could hear a bell ringing very softly. Inside was the most adorable snowman. he has a red scarf with a bell, the most gorgeous yellow nose and a very becoming black hat with two glittery stars on it. What a lovely decoration to hang in tne tree. Thankyou so much Jenny he really is quite adorable.

Cheers Julie

2010-12-21T13:46:00.000-08:00

Well surprise surprise Michelle who doesn't use a sewing machine has put together a beautiful gift. Also her and her children had kept a great secret while I had been visiting. The most exciting part of this whole swap is the talent and thought that goes into these gifts. Well done every one.
And the girls swap is under way with great ideas there to. Sooo much fun. Miranda is going to put some more photos on this site later. Merry Christmas Wendy.

crafty crafty !!!!

2010-12-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

Well what can I say there are some very talented friends around Karen,Liz and Jackie you are so clever and thoughtful what a privelige it is to belong to a fantastic group of people i cannot wait until tomorrow Love to all Edna (amah) Auckland

Chistmas !!!

2009-12-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

Well aren,t we just so fortunate to have made such lovely Friends through this Swap !!!
have probably missed out saying thank you to some of my 'swap friends" but so hard to keep up with these surprises each day Thank you all but we haven,t finished yet 2 more sleeps yeah !!! love to all Amah

2009-12-22T12:46:00.000-08:00

Karen thank you very much for my wine glass tags. Love the shell theme.
will be using them on xmas day for sure. Alison x

2009-12-22T12:32:00.000-08:00

Well it has been truly amazing - I have just loved being a part of the Christmas swap - and thankyou to everyone in my group for all the lovelly gifts - its just great to see everyones different talents, not just in Group 1 but group 2 as well. Not long now until the big day and I am looking forward to Vickis arrival tonight - (will have to keep an eye on the wee angel that Medge made - she is gorgeous and hanging on my Christmas tree - might have to check Vickis bags before she leaves - ha ha!!!) Just want to wish you all a very wonderful Christmas and New Year and really looking forward to being a part of the swap again next year. Jennie xx

xmas swap

2009-12-16T11:12:00.000-08:00

another beautiful gift today from Jean(Cairns) thank you Jean it is lovely each day brings another great surprise Love Amah (Edna )

2009-12-08T11:09:00.000-08:00

Hello from Nelson. Safely back in this beautiful spot with my two parcels. Will give Junko hers later this morning when I have time to stop and relax!!!!
It was wonderful having the little break away and although I got to see all the little gifts, I am itching to break into mine to see what clever things all you crafty people have sent.

Christmas wishes to you all,
Marion

Hurry up Postman!!

2009-12-06T14:12:00.000-08:00

Hi All I'm soooooo excited and can't wait to get the parcel in the post. Have to say my friends are to and I know I'll be inundated with calls each morning to share the surprises!!!!! New to the Christmas swap this year and I'm Miranda's mum. Miranda was part of it last year and it was I that did the ringing each morning to ask a very excited Seini (granddaughter) what the gift that morning was. What an amazing group to be part of, women using their crafting interests to make gifts for people they haven't met. When I was crafting my ?????? I kept thinking about those that would be getting one of these and hoping that they will enjoy them as much as I did making them but of course without the unmentionable moments!!!!! Thankyou Santa Liz for co-ordinating this again and your elf helpers for their efforts. Counting the sleeps until the 14th. Julie xoxo.

MY FABULOUS BOX OF GOODIES

2008-03-08T18:20:00.000-08:00

I am `The Worst Blogger' in the world!

Just so very busy, but I simply had to post.

Look what I received from the so very talented Michelle at Fairy* Dust *Dreams in California.

I have been house minding at Rachael's as THEY (the family) were in Fiji sunning and relaxing, One morning when I dashed home to feed my cats -this box on my doorstep!!

Oh my goodness, the box of goodies for our Mermaid and Seaside swap -this is too exciting !
This special hand written card with a special message
Where do I start? there are so many packages, all wrapped in tissue paper and tied with pretty wools.This is incredible, and so very different - the Northern Hemisphere girls are amazing.
I was so lucky to have been matched to Michelle - come with me and look at the contents of this....
A book/box filled with wondrous goodies, just look at the mermaid comb, the dear little shells, gorgeous fine glitter, a bracelet, and a jar of buttons and beads.

A fantastic altered journal with a very sultry mermaid and the pen is covered in beads .

NOW!!! yes my very own ` crown,' and Michelle asked me to photograph myself, as believe it or not, there is a battery behind which FLASHES --oh this is too much !!!

It is hard to catch the flashing crown, but trust me, it does. This has been embellished with shells and JEWELS!
This is the ingenious comb - a kitchen fork , heavily embellished. and just the thing for any self -respecting mermaid
And pretty, pretty beaded CORAL, and just look at my new BLING,
This wire basket was filled to the brim with fabrics, threads, ribbons etc, a treasure trove of delights.I seemed to have missed a few other bits, a gorgeous jar with a T light, lovely seaside photos on cards.Did you spot the dear wee mermaid dolly, and the cup cake pics? Dear, dear Michelle, thank you, thank you, this has been such fun, and I feel so incredibly lucky to have been your partner, I am sure this very generous box of treasures is a true reflection of your talents and work.

I AM BACK

2008-02-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

Yes I am finally back, and how bad is this?

I simply couldn't get my act together, like applying for jobs, submitting endless resumes, cover letters and simply trying to maintain being well groomed, smart, intelligent and articulate!!!!

For those of you that don't have Broadband, you will also understand that every post, takes ten + miniutes, and to visit other Bloggers has been equally frustating, BUT...... as my dear Mother would have said to me `Patience is a Virtue' as I have scored myself a Dream Job, that also pays for my Broadband connection

To upload the photos for this Blog post took exactly 1min -in the past it would have been about 10!!!

So, what have I been doing in the last month? , interviews of course, but I have also been assembling my swap, Mermaid and Seaside -hosted by Dear Michelle at Hold Dear, it has kept me sane , and certainly has taken my mind off seeking employment and all the related stresses.

Interesting, as I actually thought I was going to retire, but the reality was, that I simply could not sustain my rather lavish lifestyle, so only one thing to do GIRLS, and that was get a job.

This is what I finally sent to Michelle in California, and I have to say I was totally inspired , maybe has something to do with that fact that New Zealand is mostly Coastal, so plenty of ideas.

I felted this with Merino woool and made a small and heavily embellished bag in a seaside theme.

The box has been covered and altered with a New Zealand Paua fabric, and I stitched the mermaid in calico, and attached her to the box lid, I also uttered many oathes in the process, as soon as I had cut her shape , I knew I could have done it far more easily -oh well -next time.

The Princess (my grand -daugher) thinks that it is her hair, but I cunningly snipped some off a DOLL

You may ask -what are these balloons, but on Wednesday, we celebrated a Public Holiday called Waitangi Day, it just so happened to be the day I have designated as my FUR CHILDREN'S Birthday, so I put on a family lunch,, and this may surprise you, but they actually received gifts, like cat biscuits etc

Shattered after their Birthday celebration!!!

It is good to be back, I have missed all the comings and goings of my dear Blog friends, but I am now organised, and my new job is panning out so well, worth every dollar!

THE LAST TWO DAYS

2008-01-10T22:31:00.000-08:00

I am sitting here watching T.V. as the many tributes flow in from all over the World, following the death of our beloved and respected Sir Edmond Hilary.

An Ambassador for our country and such a statesman, he will not only be remembered for Mt Everest, but for what he did for the People of Nepal.

My ex; actually tramped there 8 yrs ago, and he too was caught up in the beauty and humility of the Nepalese people , a country that needs (like so many) our help and resources.

I still correspond with `Guide Nim' who always starts his emails with Namaste -such a beautiful word

This is not what I started off to tell you, but January must be the month for dramas, as I woke two days ago to find my beloved Martha ill, and dribbling.

Quick call to Uncle Leon (Our new Auckland Vet)

She had horrific mouth ulcers , plus some WAR WOUNDS!!!

Of course all of this meant a night in Hospital on what Uncle Leon called `SUPPORT", plus $$$$$

Not a happy girl, but she is home, having created mayhem in Hospital, trashed her cage, tipped over her water, and generally performed I was told.
Her husband Hamish (not to be outdone) also needed to be photographed, he hates it when his `missus' is not here, as he loves her dearly, and the reunion is something else again, much ear washing and grooming of each other before they retire entwined, legs, arms, tails around each other.
In amongst the chaos, I am being interviewed for jobs, ( secretly I don't want to work", but the reality is I need to, mainly to sustain my rather lavish life style, so.... I have thrown myself into the job market with astonishing results, firms, etc are actually impressed, but the hassle....
I now have, is my `interview' uniform, the pressure is on to look immaculate, impressive, well groomed, and above all confident - I am shattered, as I would much rather be in casual, and here I am teetering into interviews , made up to the max, not a hair out of place, legs shaved! heels that are killing me, trying to look slim and trim , that I haven't put on weight and that any prospective employer would be foolish to overlook me.
Watch This Space

SMELLING THE ROSES

2008-01-04T23:05:00.000-08:00

It is the small things in life, that sometimes can give such simple pleasure.

My little garden that I have grown is just that.

The last two days have been a time of reflections and milestones, on what I have achieved since this time last year.

You see, my Mother passed away and my marriage of 30years collapsed all in the one day last January.

2007 is one year that my family and I are glad to see over -new beginnings for 2008.

If I think about it, it is hard to believe that so much happened, not only the events of January, but I was the victim of Internet Banking Fraud, my beloved Martha was hit by a car and fractured her hip, my ex; also fell and broke his shoulder, and so it went on.

I sold a house, packed and moved to Auckland from Nelson, so did my ex; although he is residing an hour away from me.

I had lunch with him today, and possibly that has prompted my pensive mood, but we are friends -(mostly), despite everything, and that has to be good.

I thought about it all whilst driving home to my little sanctuary, and felt almost lighthearted, and a sense of huge relief, that we have been able to move on and remain reasonably civilised in the process

I pottered in my garden with a glass of wine, and as they say `I had the time' to not only `Smell The Roses' but to actually enjoy it

I am going to remove this scoria in the Autumn and put in some shrubs, but the pots have been an `instant garden'

Look at my lettuces!!

Look closely, and you can see the huge truss of cherry tomatoes (not yet ripe), the tomato vine is laden! I count every day when I am chatting to them.:):)

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2008-01-01T00:15:00.000-08:00

I have been so looking forward to hanging up my new 2008 Calender

Just look at the artist!

Yes, indeed -it really is a self portrait of Stella (The Princess)

How special is that?

I simply had to order one
It came complete with little stickers to put on important dates, but I thought Stella can help Nana with that task.
The family have gone to The Beach for nearly a week, so I am busy, popping over and feeding their cat and watering their gardens, but today I decided that this would be a good time to make my list of objectives and projects for the year.
Number 1 on my list was....................
Do you remember this? I have previously posted the saga of my old , but oh so comfortable computer chair!

YeeeeeeeeH -yes, yes, many tools and the heavy duty staple gun, I am so pleased with the effort.

I have been idling away a few hours today at various Blog sites, and for so many, January seems to be the month of lazing, reading and a general wind down, although I am very tempted to begin Project 2, and that is to sort and cull the many photograph albums that one collects over the years.

THE ARTFUL CHRISTMAS SWAP

2007-12-27T21:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, it is over, such a feeling of overwhelming happiness and a huge thank you to all those very talented and crafty women who participated in Group 3

Friends and family ask -`so what did you like best' I can honestly say that each and every gift was so different, that I don't have a `favourite' -every single gift will be cherished and in the case of the Christmas decoration gifts, they will be brought out each year with special memories of their origins.

Day 11, and even the cats knew the ritual, no breakfast until Mummy had opened her gift.

Just look at the package - a lovely box, embellished with a gorgeous decoration and tag from Angela Hoffmann

She is just too lovely - a handcrafted angel, complete with wings and her own dress and pretty button -her hair is amazing - Thank you Angela - I love her!
Day 12 and Christmas Day -look!!! and what can be inside -the tag says `handle with care'

Can you read the label? I have already had a look at Patrice's web site and feel I may have to place a SMALL order

AND......... this is what was inside, totally beautiful, a fragrant wax Christmas Angel - Rachael and I have never seen or heard of this craft before, so for those of you that haven't -go have a look at http://www.cottonpress.com/

Until I post again, I wish each and every `blogger' a very Happy New Year.

TWO MORE SLEEPS -TWO MORE GIFTS!!

2007-12-22T22:37:00.000-08:00

Yes -it really is nearly over, but what fun it has been.

I have to show you this, as I mentioned before -I have had Stella (The Princess) to visit me, and we do lots of Nana things together -yesterday we finished the gifts that I have helped her make for special people in her life - but I did wonder why my box of tissues had suddenly been reduced!

I just happened to be tidying up around under the Christmas tree, and obviously `The Family' were in need of a rest, as Mary and Joseph have some very nice new bed linen, even pillow cases, and Baby Jesus isn't quite in his manger, but is nicely tucked up with a cut up tissue paper pillow case and sheet - this is such a special time seeing little girl of 4, carefully putting `The family' to bed. -her very own interpretation of Christmas fuzzy stuff!Day 8 arrived, ( I am going to miss this early morning ritual), and a very nicely packaged bag, and beautiful tag from Vivan at vivs-whimsey. blogspot.com
I have recycled the wood shavings in a gift basket for my daughter-in-law (thank you)

Oh -this is gorgeous, a lovely Christmas ornament for my tree, all sparkly and glittery with `Glisten' inscribed on the front -he is just so cute -thank you Vivian -he is hanging on my tree.

Down the stairs I ran for Day 9, and what can be in this beautiful tin?

Rashell, what a lovely tag, but oooooooh!

The photo says it all -I love it, and it fits perfectly, and the little `gate' catch is so, so pretty -thank you so much Rashell

Lucky, lucky Nana -The princess stayed with me last night - it was so cute, we sat in our jamas before bed with a nice cup of hot Milo each, then a story and prayers and she went straight to sleep -good girl Stella .

She knows `the drill' as she told me to get the camera for present 10 , she has been assisting opening Rachael's gifts each morning -see Roseroom blog

This is a beautiful, paper craft Christmas ornament , and the packaging was lovely, brown paper , with newsprint and vintage lace, the photos don't show it very well, and the little Christmas tree decoration is delightful, with a little cherub in the centre, thank you dear Stefeani -I am not sure where you are from -will need to consult with Rachael.

Sooooooo...... tomorrow is Christmas Eve, still lots to do, but I have already made a `New Years' resolution and that is to DIET!!

JUST LOOK AT WHAT SANTA DELIVERED TO MY HOUSE

2007-12-20T00:30:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness this is `A Blast' -our Northern Hemisphere gals certainly know how to produce wonderful and extraordinary gifts

Day 6, and I was up with `The Larks' so to speak -not quite, but just look what Martha from Canada made.

The packaging was remarkable -brown paper and tissue paper sandwiched together and `stitched' yes that's correct -`stitched' - with a gorgeous silver star with 6 stamped on it

Carefully , I tore open just a little bit to reveal - just adorable - a little broach that has been also sandwiched together with delightful patchwork fabric with a little wading between and randomly over -stitched, a vintage piece of lace surrounds the picture and the words `She Loved to Sew' Thank you Martha - this is awesome and I shall wear it on Christmas Day.

Day 7 -ooooooooooh ! I slept in, cats starving, and I am in panic mode to get to the Christmas tree.

Oh, the card from Pat is beautifully inscribed with lovely words
What does one say to this? a work of art - I have never seen anything like it -clever, clever Pat'
There are six little pages depicting the sea and beach, and it folds out, the entire theme is of The Sea, complete with fishing net (can you see it?)
shells, photos, gorgeous stones and even a mermaid - incredible and a huge thank -you.
I don't want this swap to ever end, it is such fun and I would recommend this to anyone.
Day 8 tomorrow - mmmm - I wonder what is in the parcel!

GASP -GASP!!!!!!

2007-12-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

DAY FOUR AND FIVE OF OUR ARTFUL CHRISTMAS SWAP

I have to say that every day is worth getting up for -I lie in bed for a while contemplating the day, and then suddenly I realise that Santa has been, a quick fumble for the specs, and down the stairs at a rapid pace, followed by my two cats, who are hoping the speed is actually for their breakfast -but alas -they have to wait while Mummy opens her gift.

DAY 5

Oh -dear Holly, how did you mange it all , this is absolutely stunning, the most gorgeous magnet capturing the very essence of our swap -the little picture in a mini tin of a hand and the words `creative art' sealed in resin is beautiful, the bag that Holly chose is all colour co-ordinated -I love it

DAY 4
As some of you will have read on Rachael's (Rose Room) blog, this is her gift and one that she wasn't happy with, but the most important fact it was made when she was at her absolute worst -her Arapax withdrawal -everything was an effort, and believe me this was `A Labour Of Love' as she struggled to be inspired -but isn't it great? - she is too hard on herself .
I have it hanging on my dresser and is `pride of place'

Now, you will be wondering what this GORGEOUS piece of fabric is doing here, well, if you recall I refurbish and paint pieces of old wrought iron for Rachael, and I had a little stool all ready for the fabric and this is what I chose:):)

mmmm -` I hate it' said the daughter, it isn't `Shabby Chic' , but oh well, it is your project, soooooo, what to do, well the only thing to do was to go and purchase some more.

As I wandered up and down fabric department, terrified that whatever I chose may not be Shabby Chic, in desperation I grabbed ( irrespective of the cost) what I hopefully felt was `the suitable fabric, armed myself with the heavy duty stapler and ---- is this Shabby Chic or not?

I didn't tell Rachael that I had had a change of HEART, and just left this on her doorstep -the reaction!!!! "Oh Mum' she says "it is beautiful" she enthused, as I breathed a sigh of relief.

All is not lost..........................

Watch this space

Won't this hideous old, but comfortable Computer chair look fabulous?

GIFT 3 AND THE PRINCESS

2007-12-16T15:41:00.000-08:00

Day three arrived, and even tho' this is the gift I made for `our swap' I couldn't help but be a wee, bit excited.

I have realised that we `Down Under' need to `show and tell' a day later , because we are a day ahead and don't want to spoil the surpriseAnyway , the little bag that I made, is felted from pure N.Z Merino wool, I lined each bag with pretty red Xmas fabric and sandwiched the bag and lining with blanket stitch.

The front has a very nice motif which was appliqued and the little bag was embellished with trim and min-buttons.
A Xmas tag was included.
This is a hideous photo of me, but here I am, many months ago felting my fabric to make 12 bags for `Our Artful Christmas Swap'

FUZZY STUFF

This weekend has been so very special as I have had the Princess -my grand daughter Stella ( Rachael from The Rose Room's daughter) on Sat; and Sun; afternoons

I am helping Stella make some very special, little gifts for very special people - wink- wink

I, of course I cannot show you what she has made.

This is what ` The Spirit of Christmas ' it is all about, and I felt so proud of this little dot as she carefully made the little gifts, and wrapped them all by herself with minimal help from Nana!

Above is Stella also making a frame from leaves and flowers from my garden, this was to take home to Mummy and Daddy, and all this is from a 4 year old -clever girl!!

She was also a helpful girl, she was not at all happy with the position of A Very Old Nativity Scene' which has seen better days, but this was my Mother's and I simply have to put it out.

At one point Baby Jesus was in the Christmas Tree with Mary trying to find him!

She made the `family' their own special house

She also re-arranged my Christmas gift swaps, not happy at all with the way Nana had arranged them!

I have the advantage of having Day 4 displayed -you will all love it as clever Rachael made it.

I am off to do some Christmas shopping in temperatures of 25 c

THE BIG DAY HAS ARRIVED

2007-12-14T12:28:00.000-08:00

Oh I am just so excited , yesterday the parcels for `Our Artful Christmas Swap" arrived from Holly in America, and because they were both addressed to Rachael at The Rose Room, we were able to open Day 1 together.

This has been a huge project for Holly to undertake, just the sheer magnitude of sorting, co-ordinating, and posting to different countries has been an enormous feat, so a huge thank you and special hugs for HollyOh, just look, extremely urgent on the big box and inside a special message from Holly and now to the contents.............oooooooh! what can be inside?
Day 1 is from dear Chris, all carefully packaged in a CD Mailer Box, with pretty pieces of coloured strips, but the contents, oh my goodness!!! - Rachael and I just stared at each other in wonderment , beautiful mini sheets of Festive paper, a wish list, a gorgeous pin which I shall wear on Christmas day, a divine concertina card with special messages that was clipped together, and just look at the next photo of a Christmas decoration that Chris has obviously made
I already have this hanging on my tree -how special and personal, the photo is of the front and back

Now here are the pressies en masse - all ready for me to open each day, this is so gorgeous and I am so glad that I participated in this swap.

For a change of pace, and because I am now into the Christmas spirit, I went outside my Apartment and photographed, what we in New Zealand call our native Christmas tree, the Maori name is Pohutakawa, isn't it amazing ? this time of the year the country side is amass with these beautiful blooms .

This is what I look at from my doorway.

I awoke this morning, so excited and the first thing I did, bleary eyed was to open Gift 2 from Dear Melanie in Germany -yes all the way from Germany via America. Melanie chose the most gorgeous purple hues for her wrapping paper and ribbon, look at the fabulous peg, that too will have a special place on my tree.

But - what is inside the wrapping??

This is amazing, the most beautiful hand crafted little note book, that has been bound by using some type of bamboo sticks and then woven through the pages, and just look at the cover.

I am so lucky and I just love my gifts, I cannot wait until tomorrow, no, that is not true because Day 3 is my contribution, but lovely to have one of mine back, how good is that?? sent from N.Z. to Holly in America and then all the way back to N.Z.

Another up-date in two days time.,

It is rather humbling to receive such beautiful gifts from afar, all so beautifully chosen and hand crafted

Thank you Dear Holly.

WINDING UP FOR CHRISTMAS

2007-12-11T01:29:00.000-08:00

I am back, and am now in panic mode as there seems much to do for The Festive Season, frantically trying to get Christmas cards written and posted.

It is taking longer this year as it seems mandatory to include a little note, because of my house and location move.

I returned from the saddest funeral of a 20month old little boy in Nelson - I worked with his father -gosh it makes all other problems and hassles pale into insignificance.

I have also had my very best friend staying with me for a five day whirlwind of shopping, wining and dining.

Lin is from Christchurch and flew up to `check out' my new Apartment etc

We had a delicious curry one night, Lin, Daughter Rachael from RoseRoom and myself
Yesterday I put up my small artificial Xmas Tree -yuk!, but I simply don't have room for anything larger, much prefer the lovely smell of Pine Trees, but not to be this year.
I had two little helpers, and after much ear washing and grooming of each other, they settled down for a sleep underneath the tree -no, the Xmas tree light plug didn't seem to bother them.
Today has been a concentrated effort of present wrapping for my son and family in Cairns, Australia, we have missed the cheap postage rates, and I have just checked the list and it appears that it will be Economy Courier , mmmmmmm we shall see!!
I am an `over the top wrapper', my efforts are brilliant red with many embellishments , ribbon, tags, bows etc , all secured with the hot glue gun.

But look at this tasteful collection, these are Rachael's contributions-far more low key than mine, I have both lots of parcels packed in a `Sparkling Wine Box' appropriate I feel.

After the marathon effort, I also decided to organise my dear friend and her daughter's gift in Nelson, this is a calico pyramid with ribbon embroidery, and filled with sand, to be used as a paper weight or just something decorative, this is for my friend

I also whipped up this notelet pad, a cheap way of making a very cheap notelet pad into something special.

Hopefully tomorrow I will finish the cards, and then think about making truffles and goodies to eat.

FAMILY STUFF

2007-12-02T00:16:00.000-08:00

I did it, yes I really did it.

I entertained for the first time in my new Apartment.

I kept it simple, and invited family so as to practice , as I knew they would be forgiving if it didn't go to plan.

But look at the flowers, Babes -my son-in-law's grandmother and his Aunt arrived with this beautiful bunch, and the red gerberas had pretty sparkles on the petals.

The peonie roses were a gift from my dear daughter-in-law, they should be at their very best in a couple of daysso........ what did we eat?

I have produced this before in Nelson, and is always great party trick, the chickens cooked on Beer cans -yummy, the chops and sausages were for the children, but I did spy some of the adults having some
Rachael carving a chicken, and my daughter-in-law concentrating on serving her salad!!!

My grandchildren, the Princess doing something with Nana's drapes -cute.

My three grandsons, Handsome Taila 14, and the twins Rueben and Riley 7

Spot the new outdoor furniture -it was a glorious summer's evening, so we were able to have pre-dinner drinks outside, (a rather cunning cocktail to begin with.

Plus the bonus of dining outside also.

I am pretty happy that I achieved this, and will now have the confidence to go on and entertain more.

I do like having `at home's' - it is always so satisfying to see your guests relaxed and enjoying themselves -that is what it is all about, sharing and having fun

I am going to Nelson tomorrow night for 24hours, sadly it is for a funeral.

BOXES , BAKING AND PAINT PROJECTS

2007-11-29T00:37:00.000-08:00

I simply have to get Broadband, Dial Up is taking forever to load, , and to view other Blogs is so slow and frustrating!

But, I have been very busy, still crafting etc for The Rose Room's Christmas Day this Saturday.

The three boxes are all made from Vintage linens, that I cunningly sourced from Rachael's stash!

Raised eyebrows is the only reaction I got when I showed Rachael what I had made with her precious fabrics and laces -- but all for for a good cause was my justification

A covered heart box with recycled laces, vintage linen and silver Christmas trim.
I know -this one is `over the top!'

This one is pretty, the cluster of flowers on the lid is made from crochet pieces that I cut and armed with my hot glue gun, I ruffled and gathered them .

Indirectly this really has nothing to do with craft, but I had spent the afternoon in my garage painting, and when I went out to photograph the pieces later - I felt two pair of eyes following me, my inseparable Tabby cats. The flash has caught their eyes!

This is what I was painting for Rachael's shop -work in progress!

I have also made for The Rose Room's Christmas day these little Cointreau and Cardamon mini cakes -it took longer to fashion the embellishments etc than to make the actual cakes

Very easy to make, and they are baked in small, clean spaghetti tins which I use every year

Finally.... this is fabulous, I also up-lifted this from R's garage, tossed in a corner, covered in dust , some of the cane had unwound, so with hammer, tacks and a can of Royal Blue paint -YEHHHHHHH - more raised eyebrows!!, but doesn't it look wonderful?

CHRISTMAS CRAFTS

2007-11-26T01:51:00.000-08:00

BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!!

Yes I am, in amongst the chaos of moving, surrounded by boxes and general shambles and trying to get into the Christmas spirit, I have been steadily crafting for Rachael's Christmas Special Day at her The Rose Room this coming Saturday.

Having never made Tussy Mussies before, here are my first two efforts -`Totally over the top' I hear you say , and that is possibly true, but when I found all my Xmasy craft things, I

felt that this would be a great way to cull, and yet have something to show for it.

So armed with my Hot Glue Gun and very little stitching, I thought I would share my efforts with you

I had a lot of varying sizes and shapes of boxes. ( I love boxes), I started to cover and embellish them - they also look good on the inside -this one worked out so well !
These little numbers are Sooooooooooo cute, I removed all the tin foil off a roll and cut them into rounds, made bases, lids etc and stitched a small hinge

My green models, there is such fabulous selection of fabrics - what is a girl to do? but go purchase some more

I shouldn't have... but both the green boxes are made with new fabric -couldn't resist!!

The advantage of living close to my daughter, is that I am able to raid her torn , vintage linens, so next post will be a showing of the covered boxes made with vintage linens and laces that I have used

THIS IS WHAT I HAVE BEEN DOING

2007-11-21T01:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, moving day finally arrived, and while my daughter Rachael over at Rose Room was primping and preening for Natasha's prom, I was unpacking and trying to fit the contents of a very large Town House in Nelson, into a very small Apartment in Auckland.

Plus relocate my two beloved cats!!!

Anyway...................... the very large truck arrived carrying my belongings, I haven't seen them since early August -it felt like Xmas -well sort of.

Where to start????

Above photo is the upstairs bathroom, those huge cartons contained towels and general bathroom goodies, my next post will show just how pretty and girly I now have it
The kitchen and lounge!!!

Another shot of the lounge.
Order has been restored finally, I have even dug up some gardens, new top soil, and presto I now have herbs and lettuces planted.
Never again, this has been a huge move, but I love my little house and am already planning a few changes
More next time, and perhaps a photo of my cats, Martha the naughty girl cat has already caught her first bird, from being a beautiful loving domestic cat, she does have tendencies of a serial killer!

OH MY GOODNESS!!!!!!!

2007-10-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

IT DOESN'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS!

Two parcels from overseas in one week.

Just look at these gorgeous works of art from Karen at Bluemuf and Catie at Catien & Co.

It is sooooooooooo exciting getting parcels from afar, and the fun of opening them - I always feel like a small child again, the anticipation and everything that goes with receiving mail.

The first to arrive was from dear Karen at Bluemuf -just look at the lovely stickers on the envelope!

....And the oh so tasteful card that was inside -clever Karen!

And finally the most delightful dress that Karen made for me. On beautiful crisp white card, with red cord, sparkly stones and petite beads, this is truly gorgeous and I just love it.

Thank you dear Karen.

A few days later another parcel arrived, this time from Catie at Catien & Co - if you pop over to Rachael's latest posting at The Rose Room you can see more of what was inside.

Catie so generously sent a selection of fantastic goodies for us to play with, plus this awesome gown!!,

Beautifully crafted on Vintage wall paper, and laden with the most gorgeous JEWELS, all complimenting the colour of the paper that Catie used.

Thank you Catie, this is truly amazing

Receiving such lovely dresses has more than compensated for my awful week, brought on entirely by myself.

I very foolishly put my name down at a huge local Hardware Warehouse for casual work counting items for their stock take.

mmmm!! My poor back, hands, in fact every limb is still aching from crouching down, bending and trying to be enthusiastic as I counted and bagged Coach Bolts, Washers, Screws, Nails, Sandpaper used for grinders etc-

I can hardly believe that there are hundreds of varieties of items for the building industry, and to add insult the hourly rate was pathetic.

A huge learning curve maybe, but not one I will be in a hurry to repeat.

NOT TWO BUT THREE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-10-19T03:18:00.001-07:00

How spoilt am I?

Yesterday was so, so special, as all sorts of lovely things happened.

Thursday was my last day in Christchurch with my very, very best friend.

I was so, so busy on her computer at lunchtime, and still in my nightie and dressing gown (naughty)

Lin summoned me to the lunch that she prepared......................

Look at this!!

Fresh oysters, Fresh mussells, Japanese seaweed salad, all this with a loaf of crusty bread and a bottle of Chardonnay, yum, yum

I flew back to Auckland later that evening, and when I got home, awaiting me was this parcel from `Dear Shannan' at PaintMine Pink........... soooooooooooo exciting.

Rachael instructed Babes to carry my suitcase upstairs, so I could unpack my camera!!

As I unwrapped the parcel, lots and lots of sparkly `love hearts emerged!! what fun.Yeeh, look at this, gorgeous pink ribbon and tissue, can you see the beautiful `tag' that Shannan made??

To reveal, not two, but three amazing dresses.
Number 1 is the Autumn Dress - edged with pearls -isn't it just fantastic?
Number 2 is a Halloween Ballgown- just look at the stunning detail!!!!!!!!!!
Number 3 is Pretty In Pink - so Shannan , beautiful rose and pink theme*
I just love them all.
Thank you dear Shannan from Australia
This was so terribly exciting as it was my first SWAP!
It is now back to reality, I have my Xmas swap all ready to post.
I came home with all sorts of `crafty ideas' watch this space!

Wrought Iron Progress

2007-10-12T19:50:00.000-07:00

Yeeeeeeeeeeh!!!!

Shannan from across the Tasman Sea at Paint Mine Pink has received my paper dress swaps

Check out her amazing Blog site and her awesome Etsy, she has the most beautiful things for sale, and of course all hand made!!!

As promised, an up-date on my foray into sanding, undercoating and painting and making the seat covers for old (JUNK) wrought iron, well, that is what I first thought, when Rachael instructed me of her requirements.

I am so glad I didn't throw out the `old painting clothes' from when we painted The Rose Room

Who would believe the finished result?????????????
The one is painted white, with a pretty blue patterned seat cover.

............... and the cream one with a green patterned seat cover

BUT WAIT, there's more, this is this afternoon's effort!!!!!!!!!!!!! secretly I have quite enjoyed restoring these, which is good, because in the garage there is more pieces (still no room for the car)

Rachael is going to hang her Halloween Tussy Mussies for The Rose Room's window display.

I am off to Christchurch tomorrow, to have some special time with an old School Friend, we started school together when we were five and have remained best friends ever since.

Be back on Thursday

Paper swaps

2007-10-08T19:12:00.000-07:00

SWAPS - I am so proud of these, especially as this is my first SWAP ever and to give a sneak preview of what I sent to Shannon - I do hope she likes them. I was sorry when I had finished them as I wanted to do more:):)

It is a wet afternoon, hence me playing on my Blog, I should be ironing or making a pie for dinner, or changing out of my ghastly painting clothes.
I am covered in paint, as one of my Retirement projects was to `jazz' up the many pieces of old wrought iron that Rachael has, she makes me nervous as I like to sand and undercoat first, but she is more relaxed about preparation than me ( I am of the OLD SCHOOL) and I sense her disapproval as I am sure the projects would be long finished, but..............................! to quote my mother and Rachael's Granny, `if a job is worth doing, then it is worth doing well', so I go with that.
The Land Agent phoned me this morning, yes..............the Apartment is mine on the 2nd November -yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeh!

Rachael's Birthday and Stuff

2007-10-07T01:42:00.000-07:00

Post Birthday Lunch
Rachael, Stella and Gail

Rachael and I, also taken today on a gorgeous sunny day in Auckland, yes that is glasses of `Bubbly', but spot the water jug as well.

Where has the time gone? it is over two weeks since I last wrote a `post'

I seem to be incredibly busy, something that i didn't anticipate retired life would be, however lots of fun.

The big news in my life, is I have purchased an apartment, very close to the family, it is sooooooooo cute, and now i am panicing that I won't fit everything into it, but it will be nice to be reunited with my possesions as they have been in Storrage since early August!!

Yesterday was Rachael's (Roseroom) birthday, I minded the shop so she could have a sleep in.

Last night we had a lovely platters of food outside, several of her special friends came to celebrate, and that was so exciting, as there was Sonja from Melbourne, Kirtsy from Te Awamatu and Gail from Hamilton, the `girls' all stayed, so a true sleep over -Poor Babes was dispatched to Hamilton for the night, Stella was also here and such a good girl for Mummy's birthday.

I feel very happy as I finally posted my paper doll swap to Shannon at PaintMinePink, I do hope she likes them, I did have such fun making them for her.

My Christmas Swaps are also completed and as soon as Rachael finishes hers, they too will be winging their way.

BUSY -BUSY AND MORE

2007-09-22T04:49:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been a week since Rachael's shop opened and I really have to wonder what I have done all week.

With Rachael at the shop, I have caught up on Housework -boring you might say, but I actually enjoy it.

On the craft scene we have been busy making out Paper Doll swaps, they seem to get bigger and better, but they are now all ready to post, one tends to get carried away with embellishments, and we now have Rachael's husband `Babes' taking an interest in what we are producing - he is now using the word `embellishment,:):) we think he likes the word.

This is a very bad photo of me, but I am making my own felt from Merino wool slivers, to be used for my Xmas swap project, time is marching on, but I have made four, only eight to go!!!!!

In amongst all of this activity I am house hunting, although the family don't seem to mind me living with them, I do feel I should be pro-active in searching for something suitable, a small apartment would be good, but I feel I need to have extra space for all of my craft and needlework, I have a little here with me, but somewhere in the depths of a storage container there are many boxes and bins of absolute essentials!

GETTING CLOSER

2007-09-13T02:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, opening day is fast approaching, and for those of you who visit The Rose Room, you will know that the Grand Opening is this Saturday - mmmmm ??? will we do it?
Yes, girls can so anything!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rachael made this stylish banner around midnight last night and hung it today-I sneaked outside for a quick photo, so you can have a wee peek!
Melanie on left and her lovely daughter Kate, Rachael on right.

I just thought you would like to see Rachael's shelving , Melanie and she have started unpacking the china

Rachael and Melanie surveying the stock (shambles) with a mandatory glass for stamina and well being

That is me, and please note that I appear to be the only one still in my `painting clothes' we have worn our `work clothes' for three weeks solid.

Rachael and I `toasting' -The Rose Room' looks totally amazing and I have been so lucky and proud to have been part of this, it has been hard work, but lots of fun, and we all have such a good feeling about the success of Rachael's shop.

The very best part is that I will get to wear some of my more stylish clothes and the garage may soon be able to house at least one car, as the contents from the previous shop were stored in there.

Roll on 15th Sept:!!!

WINTER PROJECTS

2007-09-10T03:11:00.000-07:00

This winter I had fun making these hats, so simple to knit, but the best part was you actually felted them in the washing machine after the hat was complete.
The first one I did for myself, and very nervously I ran the hot water into the machine with a pair of jeans (that is what the instructions said)
I kept lifting the lid in fear and trepidation to check progress, and to my astonishment the result was fantastic,.......... from a very large knitted hat.....................
.......... to this!! I felted an extra piece, and fashioned a flower to attach to the brim.
I was so pleased with my first effort, I made one for a very dear friend's birthday

This time I was lucky enough to find a silk rose, which complimented the lovely mauve/pink hues perfectly.

They are so, so warm and snug for our cold New Zealand winters, and I just love wearing mine.

Isn't blogging such a great medium for sharing ?

2007-09-07T14:17:00.000-07:00

This is so cute. When Rachael and I were travelling from Wellington to Auckland, we stopped off at a beautiful place called Lake Taupo -Rachael of course went to the first op-shop we found there, but I came across this gorgeous cushion and couldn't resist it
It just so happens that I have a baby grand-daughter in Cairns -Australia
Georgia is only 4 months old, and her Mummy has painted her bedroom a lovely lilac shade.
The sheeps legs actually move! -just so, so cute!

The parcel has arrived, and Baby Georgia's Mummy and Daddy were delighted, it matched perfectly.
It is a so New Zealand gift to send, and I like to send a `Kiwi' parcel, in the hope that they may come here to live -my lovely daughter-in-law is an Australian girl and Phillip has been in Australia for years.
I am now off to Rachael's shop to sand and paint furniture

HAMISH AND MARTHA

2007-09-05T20:26:00.000-07:00

I do need to share with you, my cats. They are nearly two years old, and just the ordinary variety - tabby models.
They are not siblings , we got Hamish first, but felt he needed a playmate, so off to the SPCA and chose a female about the same age -this was on our Vet's advice.
If cat's could talk !! Hamish's face was one of pure delight -he instantly `Fell In Love' she was a little slower to reciprocate, but it has been ` A Marriage Made In Heaven' -they are inseparable, hardly ever apart, much ear washing and grooming of each other.
This brings me to why I am telling you about my beloved cats -for the last year I have become (amongst other things) addicted to wet felting, and have made many items, but like everything, you end up with the bits left over
I have been felting this afternoon, getting pieces ready for my Xmas swap project
I used the crazy patchwork method and hand crafted their personal duvet, the result has been received with much enthusiasm, and Martha has recently had a stint at Vet Hospital, so the duvet went with her.
Many comments especially from members of the Emboridery Guild that I belonged to, there are many envious cats, whom I am sure would love their own pure merino duvet to sleep on.
Thank you to all who have viewed my blog, I can see that it could be addictive, as women the world over have much to share.

2007-09-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

I have been busy as you can see - this is my very first posting, and I am keen to see if I can actually do this on my own as Rachael is still in bed asleep.

I am making these dolls for Rachael's shop, she has bins of lovely old vintage laces and doilies, and I have been allowed to fossick, but she watches me very closely to make sure that I don't take her `good pieces'

They have been fun to do, and of course the idea came from the swap dolls, and although I hate using glue, (I prefer to stitch), the end result has been spectacular -have thoroughly enjoyed making them.

If this is a sample of what my Retirement means -then I see fun times ahead.

Today is wet, and I am going north to a place called Orewa, this will be the first time that I have driven in Auckland traffic, am a little nervous, as Nelson where I previously lived has about two lanes only and very moderate traffic compared to Auckland.

I can only get lost, annoy other motorists as I creep along, the mobile is charged, something that I am hopeless at, and the big thing will be to remember to actually take it!! :):)