With or Without Nap

Valentines Day 2012

2012-02-15T10:52:00.026+11:00

The girls awoke to a new decoration in their bedroom. It's rather long and will have to be moved to a corner, but I thought they'd get a kick out of seeing the love hearts in the middle of their room when they stumbled out of their beds;

Nick and I have bought each other a combined Valentines present this year (which is arriving this Saturday!) so we had agreed to not getting each other anything else for the day.

Of course, Nick broke the rules and came home with a surprise box of Bon Bons for me;

I have fond memories of (when I used to work in the city) making special trips to the QVB in my lunch hour, to taste the latest flavours;

As I dived straight in, Nick was quick (too quick!) to ask me if I was going to share some with the girls. So I did. Very Reluctantly. (This was the only downside to my Valentines Day).

I had a special gift for the girls.... I made them a little drawstring bag using some cute fabric I found at Spotlight the other day;

Nick and I may or may not, at certain times, refer to our children as 'wild animals'. Thus;

I bought these bags of animals from ALDI for just 49 cents each and found the very cute printable from here. They were a hit!

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of how lucky I am, to have my beautiful little family. Two perfect girls and my gorgeous husband = a very happy Me;

I must admit, I am always extra happy when Nick comes home and amidst the chaos, declares we have take-away for dinner. Like last night. As he went to pick up the pizza, the girls and I rushed around like crazy (C-rAzY!) to make our dinner a bit more special;

We pulled some chairs outside, grabbed a few tablecloths, vases and tea-lights and got to work.

The girls have got setting-the-table down to a fine art (they are well trained in this area. Putting their clothes away? Not so much). They took care of plates and cutlery, I tied jumbo ric-rac around the napkins;

Floral mugs would suffice for glasses and we used the spotty vase for a water pitcher;

Candle-holders the girls made last Valentines and a bejewelled wire rack (I still haven't figured out it's precise purpose) to hold the bowl for Garlic Bread;

Of course, the animals were all marched out;

Plenty to go around;

They came to graze at every corner of the table;

These pictures make me laugh. Like the giraffe trying to peer over the top of the bowl and Livvie asking, 'Do you think giraffes like garlic bread?';

Then Nick came home with our favourites (nachos pizza for us!);

The wine was good, the cheesy pizza even better (just ask Elly);

This was how we all felt afterwards;

We waited awhile, before Elly and I unveiled our surprise dessert;

After our trip to the mountains on the weekend, it could only be Apple Pie;

I had never made one before, so I was flying blind... but I did add love-hearts to the top of the pastry and that seemed to make up for the rest of it's appearance! I also added 4 x the amount of cinnamon required, especially for you, Nick.

And that was our little Valentines Day celebration. I hope you had a LOVEly day too!

Apple Picking

2012-02-13T14:20:00.010+11:00

On Sunday, we took advantage of the sunny weather and headed up to the mountains, to Bilpin, for some apple picking;

It is the start of the apple picking season and we were among the first to sample the first Gala Apples, fresh off the trees;

There are many apple farms in the area, but we chose Shield's Orchard;

Because of all the rain recently, only a small section of the orchard was open to us, but it was perfect for these little legs;

It wasn't just the fruit picking that kept the littlies entertained;

I had visions of the girls with quaint little baskets, skipping up and down the rows of apple trees. The skipping definitely happened, but the basket we were given was slightly more utilitarian than the ones in my dreams;

We stopped halfway, to lay out a picnic rug and sample some of the goodies;

Me in my apple top;

The girls couldn't be stopped and ate two apples each!

We finally filled our basket and we each took a guess as to how many kilo's we had picked.

I won with my guess of 5 kilo's! At only $2.50 a kilo, it was a very inexpensive day out! We could have stayed there all day picking apples, it was so lovely in the sunshine, but we finished up at Shields...

And then drove to a pretty picnic spot for some lunch.

Unfortunately the only thing to mar the day was Livinia getting a leech stuck on her ankle. She started screaming, I yelled for Nick (who was far away, under a tree, relieving himself!) before I realised, with great horror, that I would have to be the one to get it off her (Why do I always get stuck with the horrible jobs?!?!!).

Don't ask me how, but I managed to rip it off her and threw it away and then spent the rest of our picnic too scared to sit down! I really dislike slugs and bugs and creepy crawlies of any description. I had been coming around to the idea of trying a camping trip soon, but I think this has set me back a few years!

It was the perfect little day trip, as the girls spent the drive down the mountain sleeping soundly and catching up on some much needed rest after their first full week at school. In the afternoon, they got busy washing all the apples....

Can you guess what is on the menu for our Valentine's Day dessert?

Gallery Elyssia

2012-02-05T19:47:00.004+11:00

Judging by the amount of artwork she brought home (armfuls of it, which all had to be displayed above her bed, in a temporary gallery to show family and friends), it's no wonder Elly was exhausted after Preschool last week! My favourite is the 'Talking Teapot (top left)

Evidence That Summer Did Happen

2012-02-04T10:44:00.022+11:00

It's hard to remember the weather being hot enough to swim, because it has rained non-stop for the past two weeks (maybe more? It's all a blur now!). But we did have some beautiful weather and we did mostly enjoy our summer holidays (when we weren't stuck inside, going stir crazy!);

I love it how, despite forgetting the buckets and spades on one of our many trips to the beach, the girls made the most of it anyway and buried themselves in the sand;

They loved discovering the new water playground at Darling Harbour in town;

(Even if they were fully clothed!)

We took them to Pelican Feeding at The Entrance

Which was followed by a splash in the children's water feature;

The girls were, once again, enchanted by the Maze at Paddington;

And Nick stumbled upon a geocache!

If you haven't heard of it before, Geocaching is a free, high-tech treasure hunt. You can use your GPS to locate hidden treasure boxes (they are hidden all around the world, hundreds in Australia!), with little trinkets inside. You can take a trinket and leave a trinket. You also write your name on a list and then hide the treasure box for someone else to find. It was very exciting to have uncovered it by chance!

We enjoyed a day at The Gunners Barracks at Mosman;

We had lunch at Burnt Orange and a beautiful walk around Headland Park, and the defence forts that were hidden for 100 years;

Nick's company sponsored a family day at the Sydney Aquarium;

After Livvie's assessment at school last Monday, we piled into the car for an early evening swim at the rock pool at Terrigal, followed by Fish 'n Chips for dinner;

There was lots of 'Playing Hairdressers' this Summer - this time in the pool, with cousins;

My girls will play hairdressers anywhere, anytime they get the chance.

Common weeds will suffice for hair accessories;

We enjoyed a waterfront picnic with our Mothers Group;

It was such a beautiful day!

I braved the freeway for a trip north (across the scary Mooney Mooney Bridge in high winds! The car always feels like it is going to slide sideways and I hold onto the steering wheel as tight as I can!) to take the girls to the Reptile Park;

We have passed the big yellow Dinosaur on the hill near the freeway many times before and the girls couldn't wait to see a 'real, live, Dinosaur!' (Of course, that didn't happen!). So sad that it was the displays of fiberglass animals that were the highlight!

And lots of fun, swimming in our pool;

Livvie finally got the confidence to swim without a floatie;

The girls loved finding lots of lady bugs (our pool is a magnet for them!), except when one took flight and landed on Elly's cheek!

Is this the same child who will hold crickets in her hand and chase lizards whenever she can?

The girls saw their first Cicada up close;

Livvie stayed at a safe distance inside the trampoline in her saggy-baggy swimmers. She went through 3 pairs of swimmers this summer... they don't last long, being in the chlorinated pool so much, sitting on the rocky edge of our pool and fading in the sun when they are hung out to dry!

I have fond memories of my brothers catching cicadas and we always found (and still do find) lots of cicada shells on tree trunks around the garden. They are a noisy little creature and have funny names; Green Grocer, Brown Baker, Yellow Monday and the elusive and much prized Black Prince. My cousin tried to convince us he was selling their wings to the local chemist to be made into medicine. Of course, we believed him and all tried to help him in this Get-Rich-Quick scheme!

We thought of a fun way to decorate our backyard for when friends came over for a BBQ;

Punching Balls (remember Romper Room?) We found these at our local IGA.

This is one of my favourite pictures from Summer;

Looks so festive and relaxing. In reality, there was much commotion on the trampoline as one of the littlies had a nose-bleed. Note: the men are oblivious!

I think I will remember the summer of 2011/12 as the season of my little mermaids;

Lots of fun in the sun, whenever the rain cleared up for a quick dip!

School Calendar

2012-02-04T10:02:00.005+11:00

For Christmas this year, Livvie gave us a Calendar she made at Preschool. On each page, she drew a picture relating to something special that would be happening that month;

Such a simple idea but I also like that it's a good rainy day activity and makes a nice present for parents and grandparents;

I've started using it to keep track of all the school stuff and it's already filling up fast!

Week #1 Lesson Learned

2012-02-03T20:15:00.009+11:00

In happier times... (please read on)

Thank you for your lovely comments about Livvie starting school. We were so proud to see her stand up at the School Assembly this afternoon to accept an award for her class, only to see her burst into tears and cry inconsolably just minutes later! Apparently, she had looked out into the audience and couldn't see Mum & Dad. The poor little thing is exhausted from her first week (actually only three days) at school. She is slowing finding her way and learning what to do.

It's been quite a learning curve for us all... We really should have listened to the Principal when he said 'No parking within sight of the school'. Well today, Nick and I were running late for the Friday afternoon assembly, after picking up Elly from Preschool, so we parked down the street from the school. We found a spot at the start of a lane-way (big mistake!) and far enough away, or so we thought!

After we had picked up Liv and came out of the school, we could see a traffic jam ALL the way down the street. It was so bad, one lady was standing on her seat, head and torso out the window (I have never seen this before!), trying to see what the problem was and one man was walking down the middle of the road, in between all the cars which were stopped in both directions (no joke! I thought for a moment they might be filming a movie!), trying to discover the cause of the standstill.

As our little family walked idly towards our car, chatting to Livvie about her day, I will never forget the moment Nick's and my eyes locked and we came to the terrible realisation that it was OUR CAR that had caused the jam! (Nick looked like a deer in the headlights!)

And do you want to know what my lovely husband did?!?!?!

He gave ME the keys!!!

Which meant I had to be the one to get in the drivers' seat and get us out of that mess!

Honestly, I. could. have. died! It was so embarrassing and I felt so bad for all the inconvenience we had caused. Other cars behind us had to reverse and cars in front of us had to edge close to a brick wall, so we could get our car out and the traffic moving again.

It was so bad, I told Nick I actually thought I was having a heart attack, because it really felt like my heart was about to burst out of my chest! I felt hot and sweaty and shaky all over. I can hardly bare to think about it now, but really needed to debrief this horrible scene so I don't have nightmares about it tonight. Thanks for listening.

I have had quite a few 'embarrassing moments' in my life, but this one takes the cake. I don't know how Livvie is feeling, but I think I'm scared to go to school on Monday...

Week #1 Lesson Learned: Do as you are told.

First Day of School

2012-02-01T20:14:00.011+11:00

Livvie started Kindergarten today and what a day it was! She bounced out of bed and couldn't wait to go. She had a few moments last week, not wanting to go to big school, but this week all her worries were gone and she said today she was really excited about it!

We had a lovely start to the morning, she got dressed in her uniform and then stood on our front step and called over the fence to our next-door neighbours. They are an elderly couple who fuss over our 'beautiful angels', as they call them. They came over and made a fuss, told her to have a happy day and gave her a little present (a photo frame for her First Day pic, so thoughtful!) and snuck a little bag of shortbread biscuits to her, very cute (typical grandparent behaviour!).

Then, up to the school we went... with her Hat, Back-pack and Message Bag (a little satchel they have to carry every day, that holds notes to-and-from the teacher) and a little something from me in her pocket;

I made her and her sister a little stuffed felt heart that they can squeeze any time they miss Mum and Dad when they are at school or preschool...

Livvie made Nick and I kiss both of the hearts, to add a bit of extra love!

At school, which is only a couple of blocks from our house, we were met by Livvie's Year 6 'Buddy', who took us into the Assembly Hall. There was a lovely Welcome speech made by the school captains and then all the Kindy children were invited to the stage... where they had to speak into the microphone and introduce themselves to the whole school!!!!

(Can you imagine?!?!? There is no way I could have done that at 5 years old!)

"Hi, My name is ..... and I am .... years old!"

It was totally adorable and of course, absolutely hilarious. Children forgetting their names, some quietly mumbling, some tall and confident, others staring at the mic unable to speak, and one little girl yelling loudly that she was 5 AND A HALF YEARS OLD! I loved every minute of it. I knew Livvie did too... any chance to use a real microphone!

Before I knew it, the children were waving goodbye to us, smiling and walking hand-in-hand to their classrooms to spend the morning. It all happened so quickly (which was for the best, really!), because we were soon given a little 'First Day Survival Kit', made by the Kindy teachers. I was fine, until I read the part about the cotton ball...

'Hold the cotton ball in your hand. The softness will help you to remember the gentle spirit of your child...' That was as far as I got, until I lost it. Luckily, they also included a 10-pack of tissues!

My beautiful little girl is starting another wonderful phase of her life... It is all so amazing and she is so ready for it all.

And now. Now we get to do it all again, tomorrow, with Elly's first day at Preschool!

Luckily, Nick has taken the week off work.... It's been an emotional week, but we have definitely made the most of it and I am so glad he gets to experience all this, first-hand too.

I just don't think I will ever be able to look at a cotton ball without crying, ever again!

Knitted Bunny

2012-01-30T11:09:00.000+11:00

I don't know what possessed me, but when I saw a pattern for a bunny using a single knitted square, folded strategically and stitched together, I just couldn't resist.

I made this one evening and added a cute little pom pom tail to finish it off in the morning. Now I have to make his twin so everything is fair with the girls... although they are pretty good at sharing, they do love to have two of everything, so they can at least play 'Mums and Babies'.

I found the pattern in a beautiful book I bought recently; Creative Play for Your Toddler - Steiner Waldorf Expertise and Toy Projects for 2-4s. It suggests making a little family, as this represents a 'wholeness' to children; a baby, a mummy and daddy - 'there is always someone to take care of the others'.

I love that you can make the bunnies sit, stand or lie down, depending on how you stitch the final form. And the best thing is that you can cut a square from an old knitted jumper or scarf to make these, and skip the whole knitting step if desired.

These would be great for Easter too... a nice alternative to chocolate bunnies for children.

Laundry Play

2012-01-29T20:31:00.001+11:00

One of my favourite things to do for the girls is to create a new little play space for them. I am always rearranging furniture and switching toys in and out of play. Last week, we were inside almost the whole week, with the unseasonal rain and lack of sunshine, so I made a little Laundry corner for them and it was a huge hit!

A simple string washing line with pegs,

Wooden ironing board and iron;

A few little baskets for sorting,

and lots of dolls clothes...

of various sizes and seasons...

Hanging everything up...

This was definitely a favourite activity;

They sorted the booties and bibs;

...and got to experience the frustrations of trying to find a matching pair!

Then came the ironing;

We bought the girls these wooden irons from a Mens Shed market stall last year...

They love them (because of course, they aren't allowed to touch mine).

Then some folding of cloth nappies;

And this was the busiest little corner of our house last week...

I think this is pretty funny, because the real laundry didn't get used at all last week! It is definitely not something I love or even remotely like to do. And seeing me iron anything is a pretty rare occurrence too. In all honesty, I can easily ignore housework in favour of other more pressing needs, such as sewing or making a big crafty mess with the girls.

Australia Day

2012-01-26T20:51:00.002+11:00

Looks like some more elves have moved in to my parent's house (much to the delight of their grandchildren!) and they just so happen to be dressed in the Aussie colours of Green and Gold...

{Frozen} Water Play

2012-01-16T19:10:00.003+11:00

I absolutely love this idea from Childhood 101; conducting frozen animal rescues! This has been a huge hit with our girls;

Needless to say we have had animals of various descriptions in our freezer, every day for a week!

Blue Fairies

2012-01-16T07:44:00.002+11:00

Santa brought some blue fairy costumes, which is a welcome change from all the pink around here!

I must say, there is something magical about fairy costumes; they can totally change the mood of an afternoon. After a quick costume change, a bit of fresh air and finding a dandelion...

All smiles, dancing sweetly;

Fairy-friends again!

The Best Hiding Spot

2012-01-16T07:36:00.003+11:00

Our pantry seems to be a popular hiding spot these days.... Now I know why! Elly just told me that they sneak in there and eat spoonfuls of brown sugar when I am not looking! We had a rousing game of hide-and-seek after dinner last night and there was some argy-bargy over who got to hide in that cupboard, then they were both pretty hyped up and excited before bath time.... It all makes sense now!

I snapped this picture yesterday, when I could have caught her in the act, but she smiled so sweetly. Now I know what the 'guilty smile' looks like, I will be watching very closely!

Hello? Hello!

2012-01-16T07:09:00.007+11:00

The girls made a telephone out of two plastic cups and some string and were delighted to find out, it really works! When the string was pulled tight, their voices were very loud inside the other's cup. It's hilarious, the things they say to each other. I overheard Livvie saying to her little sister, 'I'm a bit worried about big school.... How will I know how to get to the cafe?'.

(The last time we were there, they had a cake and coffee stand, set up for the parents. I have had to very gently let her know there is no cafe, nor is there even a canteen. Oh, the look of horror on her face... she was devastated! I think back to my own childhood, and I don't think I even knew what a cafe was at age 5!)

In other news, I made a new cover for our ironing board... I don't know what possessed me, but it's a nice change.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-12T13:54:00.003+11:00

I can't believe it is already 12 days into the new year! 2012. Just before the New year of 2011, we celebrated with some special visitors from Russia, who gave us these charming little Gzhel Ceramic figurines to mark the year ahead , the one that was, 2011 ~ the Year of the Rabbit;

I love it how the little bunny on the left looks like he is waving!

Twelve days ago, we waved goodbye to 2011....

It was a good year, but one with many trials. It was the year my husband travelled far too much (for my liking!) for work (although that meant I did get to do A LOT of sewing!), I worked as a Census Collector (never again!), we made the decision to take a very unhappy Elly out of Preschool (however this may have been the best thing we did all year), we feared my Dad had a stroke (it turned out to be Bells Palsy)... then he was later also diagnosed with Diabetes, I had my wisdom teeth out in hospital and missed Halloween (boo!), My grandmother continued to decline with Dementia, Nick was in a car accident and hurt his back. I also experienced the heartache of losing a baby through miscarriage. And if I am to be honest, it is the writing of that last sentence that has taken me 12 whole days to finish this post. It hits hard in times of reflection and sometimes, just out of the blue...

However, we also had so many wonderful experiences last year; Nick and I celebrated 6 beautiful years of marriage, we joined the festivities for my grandfather's 90th birthday, my Dad's 65th, Nick's Sister's 40th, my brother Greg married The Lovely Emma, we enjoyed little trips away to Queensland, the Blue Mountains and the Southern Highlands, I found a job I loved as a Teacher's Aide and lost 5 kilos after joining WeightWatchers, Nick smashed his yearly target at the bank six months in advance (including the biggest deal ever in his group, go Nick!), Livvie completed Preschool, Elly had her first haircut, suddenly grew tall and mastered the art of writing her name. Huge milestones! But really, the best part of the year was making beautiful memories together, as a family, every single day.

Now we welcome 2012. It will be Livvie's first year of school, Elly will return to {a new} Preschool, my husband will begin studying for his Masters and I will be here for them all, doing what I love most, being a wife and Mum and enjoying all that it entails.

On New Years Eve, we held a little dinner party with our closest friends and their 3 young children. I am very happy to say that Nick and I were asked to be Godparents to their new baby and just as it was with their other two children, we were honoured to accept!

...What a lovely way to start the new year!

We have so much to look forward to in 2012. I should also mention that I am also in the process of starting my own small business ~ I just ordered my business cards yesterday! I am so excited about it and I look forward to sharing more with you soon! Thank you for reading along and for your encouraging and supportive comments and emails. Happy New Year indeed!

Christmas Day Lunch

2011-12-27T19:26:00.006+11:00

Christmas Day Lunch was hosted by Nick's sister and what a fine job she did! A beautiful table (above) but first, delicious seafood nibblies;

We gathered around the tree...

and exchanged presents;

The girls liked (even said they 'loved') their pillowcases;

It was hot, so after opening their presents, the littlies wanted to test out their new pool toys. Nanny got them boogie-boards and water soakers and they were a hit! (literally)

We had a late lunch at the sparkly table;

More Christmas crackers were popped open...

Pink Lemonade was drunk;

And good food was enjoyed;

Bertroot, Snow Pea & Feta Salad

Ham, Roast Potato & Pumpkin and Chicken with stuffing;

And Crispy Noodle and Caesar Salads;

Dessert was...

Amazing!

Nick's Mum made the Three-Tier Brown Sugar Pavlova by Valli Little

Very, very good. Elly had two {big!} servings and still wanted more!

Followed by Coffee and Brownies;

Love the glittery reindeer, walking in the snow! (Nick's Mum definitely knows how to plate up! So, I stole this idea ~ with a twist ~ for a BBQ we had with friends today).

Before we knew it, it was 7pm and that was the end to our wonderful Christmas Day. So much fun, food and festivities. I really wish it could be Christmas everyday!

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-26T20:55:00.000+11:00

It just wouldn't be Christmas without a fruit platter!

Is there anything better than waking up to excited little children on Christmas morning? I loved every second of the day, from the moment the girls found their stockings at the end of their beds and squealing happily, to checking that the reindeers liked their carrot and cucumbers (I only realised at bedtime that we only had 1 carrot, so we made them a salad!), to both of the girls jumping on their new bikes and whizzing around the house.

We had an epic day, celebrating for 10 hours straight, with both sides of our family. Everyone helped to make it beautiful and memorable. Uncle Greg (my younger brother) visited the night before and tinsel-bombed my parents house;

I made a few little things for the table ~ Santa Placecards and Reindeer Noses;

I also made some chocolate truffles, like last year;

My Mum hung 16 miniature wreaths;

Martha Mouse made an appearance;

There were presents galore for the girls;

They are so lucky to have such thoughtful and generous Aunties and Uncles. New dresses, art kits, Zhu-Zhu Pets, personalised books and for my little monster-loving daughter;

Elly absolutely loves this little play set!

Grandparents seem to know just what they love too;

They will be doted on and loved to bits, for sure!

The girls also got pretend mobile phones (near Elly's foot) and toy cameras. Coupled with their new babies, Livvie excitedly exclaimed, 'Now, I am a real Mum!'. At various times she would stop to snap a picture of her baby, it was so funny. Now I know what I must look like!

My Dad cooked up a big breakfast BBQ, sausages, mushrooms, hash browns and (I love this idea) eggs in capsicum rings;

My favourite part of Christmas Day has always been opening the Christmas Crackers and putting on our silly crowns;

Things did get silly. Uncle Luke (my older brother) went for a ride on his bike...

(It's not really his bike)

And Livvie got a tiny water-gun in her cracker, which she soaked everyone with... especially Uncle Luke!

Daddy too;

And as Elly kept saying, it was 'The Merriest Christmas ever!'

That was our morning. Afternoon festivities to come....

I hope your day was just as Merry!

Christmas at Mimi & Pop's

2011-12-24T15:44:00.000+11:00

I thought I would share some Christmas cheer from my parent's house. I took these pictures last week when we were visiting and this is where we will have Christmas breakfast tomorrow morning..

The colours in their house are always a bit Christmas-y;

My Mum has an aversion to real Christmas trees that drop pine needles everywhere. Last year, she had a fibre-optic tree, this year it is ceramic;

The irony is, she has a white Christmas tree that drops crystals all over the table!

Note to Mum: Next year, please get a real tree, then I won't end up with crystal fragments in my lunch like I did last week!

Some red & green...

Around the house...

In a box above the fireplace;

My most favourite little vintage Santa scene!

Santa Salt & Pepper Shakers;

Little Elf on the shelf;

Bobble heads for the grandchildren to play with;

Reindeer by the door...

And of course, the girls favourite... Martha Mouse!

Merry Christmas to you!

Christmas in the City

2011-12-23T22:02:00.004+11:00

Last night we took the girls into the city to see the Christmas Tree in Martin Place and afterwards, the Christmas Windows at David Jones...

It was beautiful!

The puppets in each scene are choreographed to Christmas carols. The girls were quite taken with the scene for Silent Night;

But the Little Drummer Boy was definitely my favourite;

I love the tiny mice in front, drumming along too!!!

Six Skirts

2011-12-23T20:02:00.004+11:00

This week, I made six little skirts for cousins and friends (ages 2 - 7 years) who we will be seeing at Christmas. Livvie and Elly helped me choose the fabrics based on each little girl's likes and personality ('Chicks for Emily, because she has chickens in her backyard' and 'Bubbles for Chelsea, because she likes playing with the bubble wand' and so on)

The skirts are so simple; a piece of fabric folded lengthwise, hemmed and an elastic waistband. For some, I added a button and ribbon to the top and others I left plain, if I didn't have anything on hand to match.

I had grand plans of making a little lined zippered pouch (tutorial here) to match each one, but it just never happened; this week has been so, so busy!

But tomorrow, Christmas Eve, is going to be a day of rest. No more rushing around. My girls are so excited and I want to enjoy this time with them ~ it's such a magical time of year!

By the fire...

2011-12-23T19:37:00.002+11:00

With it being Summer in Sydney, we never have the fire lit at Christmas-time. However, with all this rainy weather we have been having, I made the girls a cosy alternative with candles;

Two Skirts

2011-12-20T20:32:00.000+11:00

I made these two quick little skirts on Saturday morning.

One with Red trim;

One with Green...

Festive and bright, but not too Christmas-y!

Peggy-leg Angels

2011-12-20T17:00:00.002+11:00

Every year I make our next-door neighbours a little handmade ornament to go inside their Christmas card.

Last year I made Felt Gingerbread Houses, the year before it was Half-eaten Gingerbread Men. This year, I almost forgot!

But today I pulled out some painted wooden peg dolls I made a long time ago and stitched together some little felt angel wings;

With a bit of hot glue and a leather strap and bead, they were all done;

And every year, I keep one for our tree;

Santa

2011-12-19T14:13:00.005+11:00

Last weekend was the Christmas Party for Livvie's Preschool Class.

I had been a bit nervous about my 5 year old daughter recognising her grandfather dressed up as Santa Claus... but I needn't have worried.

Thank you very much to those who commented or emailed me advice. I liked your suggestion of telling the girls that Santa has lots of 'helpers' ... because every Santa they encounter looks a little bit different! I thought this would also give me the excuse, if Poppy was recognised at the Preschool Party, to say that Poppy was asked by Santa to be a special helper this year....

As it turned out, Livvie was one of the first children to greet Santa at the party;

And amidst all the excitement, she was none the wiser!

She and her best friend led him to his seat...

He was soon surrounded by children, Livvie at his side the whole time.

They all took turns sitting on his lap, telling him how old they were;

And detailing what they want for Christmas (thankfully, this time Elly didn't bring the Target catalogue, with every single toy circled!)

Livvie did look deep into Santa's eyes and studied him carefully as they spoke to each other, but thankfully he passed the test for another (the last?) year!

Everyone loved Santa, he was so patient and kind to all the children. I think he even fooled some of the parents, with many asking me if he was the real Santa (of course, to me, he is!). It was a magical day, with many happy memories for everyone.

Thank you, Santa!

She's apples

2011-12-16T20:25:00.005+11:00

While Nick was at his work Christmas party last night, I finally had the chance to make an apron for a friend, which I had promised her... only about two years ago!

Better late than never, right?

While I was at it, I couldn't resist making a little matching zippered pouch;

And I am pleased to report that I actually made it to the Post Office this afternoon, so it is now on it's way to Vancouver, Canada...

If only I could go too!

Handmade gifts for us

2011-12-16T20:08:00.003+11:00

The girls and I feel so lucky today...

...to have such lovely, thoughtful friends...

...who take the time, to make and send us beautiful gifts...

...which we will treasure.

Thank you!

Gifts for Preschool Friends

2011-12-14T20:28:00.009+11:00

Today was Livvie's last day of Preschool. For some reason, I like to leave things to the last minute, so I was up until 11pm last night, finishing off the little gifts for her friends.

First up, I made up some little paper stockings for the Rudolph Necklaces;

The bottom half is baking paper, with some christmas card on top. I can't remember where I saw this idea, but I think it's a cute way to package up a little christmas gift. These were the gifts for her little girl friends.

As for the boys...

The children seem to get so many candy canes and chocolates at this time of the year, I wanted to make something for the boys instead. So I stitched up some little fabric Christmas ornaments. I had some fabric with festive cats left over from a couple of years ago. I added a felt circle and some ribbon which we wrote their names on;

Then, for the teachers, in addition to the fabric covered journals, I made up some quick little zippered pouches;

Which I lined with some cute fabric with apples all over it...

So all the little gifts were finished just on time. And I actually quite liked the sewing frenzy... sometimes it's good to have a deadline because then I actually get things done (instead of the usual procrastination!)

Reindeer Cookies

2011-12-13T20:32:00.002+11:00

These were our contribution to the Preschool Christmas Party on Saturday. I was inspired by the cute cookies at Little Piece of Pie. The antlers were attached a bit haphazardly with some icing... but they were definitely a hit with the kids.

Teacher Gifts

2011-12-12T12:34:00.005+11:00

Today I finished sewing some gifts for Livvie to give to her Preschool Teachers for Christmas. They are just simple fabric-covered journals. I bought A5 notebooks and did simple strip piecing to make a lined slip cover, based on each Teacher's two favourite colours.

Jackie's is Orange & Blue;

Angela requested blue and blue;

And the one I was most worried about...

Danni likes pink/purple and leopard print. This required a special trip to Spotlight as I didn't have any leopard print in my stash. I was worried the colours wouldn't go together, but I think this journal is actually my favourite. It's funny when that happens!

They all look so different and the colours are pretty loud, but I hope they like our little handmade gift.

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-07T12:46:00.000+11:00

Yesterday, Elly and I drove out to the Dural Christmas Tree Farm to choose our tree;

We wandered around...

and around...

...soaking up the sight of all these lovely trees and enjoying the beautiful pine scent. Unfortunately Santa and his {real!} reindeer only visit the tree farm on weekends, but what a magical place!

The tree we chose only just fit inside our car, but we managed to get it home...Then a quick call to my Dad, who helped us get it inside the house and into it's tree stand. Thanks Dad! In the afternoon, we unpacked some ornaments;

And laid them out on the table so when Livvie got home from Preschool, the girls could decorate the tree together;

It's our biggest tree yet and only just fits into this space beside the fireplace, but it's perfect.

The girls were quick to put a letter each to Santa, underneath the tree... I told them he collects letters from fireplaces and leaves behind some magic sparkle dust to let you know he has been (much easier than going to the post office at this time of year and adds a bit of magic at home too!)

Tray mobile

2011-12-05T19:30:00.012+11:00

Elly and I dropped off a few bags of stuff at the Salvation Army store this afternoon and just as we were leaving, I spied this green tray mobile.

Last year I had cut out a picture from a House & Garden magazine of a tray mobile just like this one, however it was red and it had a $240 price tag. Needless to say, when I saw this one today with a $10 price tag, I was very keen to buy it.

Unfortunately, it was just on closing time and the lady had already counted the takings and locked the cash register for the day. 'Take it!' she exclaimed, waving her hands in the air, shooing me away, 'It's yours, put it in your car!' and she bustled me out of there, wheeling this baby in front of me!

I know not everyone will agree, but I love the Christmas-tree green colour, it's perfect for this time of year for displaying my Department 56 Christmas Village. It's not the whole village or even close, just a few pieces I bought when Nick and I lived in Canada (I think in total I shipped back more than my weight in Christmas ornaments that year!).

The girls love the little scene that the pieces create...and on the green tray mobile, it is just the right height for them to peer in and see all the little details, like the elves making toys;

The ice cream peddler;

Toy Headquarters;

...and Elves speeding away in crayola crayon cars!

The girls helped sprinkle on the snow today~ after 7 years, I am down to my last little bag of it!

It just might be time to add to the little collection...

Some women collect handbags or shoes... if I had my way, I would own the entire Department 56 North Pole Series Christmas Village... the Yummy Gummy Gumdrop Factory, Twinkle Bright Glitter Factory, North Pole Cookie Exchange, Northwind Knitters, Naughty or Nice Detective Agency...The Egg Nog Pub!

There are 20 pages of Lighted Buildings, not to mention accessories and figurines, I had to stop at page 10 because I just can't stand how adorable it all is. I don't know what that says about me... I just know my husband is glad I can't buy any of this in Australia and the shipping costs are definitely a deterrent for me!

Advent - Day #2

2011-12-02T19:40:00.011+11:00

This week we started making little Christmas gifts to give to Livvie's preschool friends. We used air-dry clay, a round cookie cutter and a new reindeer stamp to make Rudolph pendants;

...with a single red sequin for his little red nose!

I was surprised how quickly Livvie churned these out (must be all that practice with play dough over the years!). We had to wait 24 hours to air-dry and then painted a clear glaze on top. She loved the fact they hardened when dried - certainly different to what usually happens when the play dough is left out and it crumbles into pieces! Next time we will have to make something 3D - maybe a snowman or two...

Yesterday we made Christmas cookies for a treat (using Martha's sugar cookie recipe), and imprinted them with a new Santa stamp;

At the request of Elly, we put a couple in the freezer, so we have personalised cookies to leave out for Santa.

We have the Christmas books out again...

Oldies, but goodies....

And new ones too!

And the highlight of the week, was Nick's Mum delivering our Christmas Cake;

She makes us one every year and I must say, this is the best yet.... so delicious and rich.

It's only Day #2 on the Advent Calendar, but it's already beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!

Advent Calendar

2011-11-30T19:34:00.014+11:00

I finally finished sewing 24 mini stockings for our Advent Calendar... just in time! I used a combination of embellishments for the front of each stocking; Embroidery, Iron-on Motifs and Applique;

I was the very lucky winner of Lisa's giveaway, over at The Red Thread. I absolutely love her designs. I have bought Sweetie Petites doll kits from her in the past and I adore her Christmas motifs, they are so adorable. I chose a Christmas Tree (see above), a Pudding...

...a Gingerbread Man and a Present with rosy cheeks;

I went to Spotlight on Monday to buy some more, but they didn't have any! I found her other beautiful products (I can't wait to make her Stitch & Sew Angel) ... but no motifs! They must have sold out! I was so disappointed and even had the staff running around checking other sections, just in case.

I knew I definitely would not have time to do embroidery on the 20 other mini stockings. In fact, I only ended up embroidering 8...

But I did find some fabric that had little Christmas-themed pictures in red and white squares, so I used those to finish off the rest of the stockings today;

It was a rush-job and definitely a compromise, as the first half of the calendar looks lovely and colourful and cute and the second half looks... pretty average! I wanted all the stockings finished, so my girls have an understanding of how far away Christmas is... But I think I will switch in Lisa's motifs as we near the end, so we can see those cute little faces again... especially that little present with the rosy cheeks, love her!

In the meantime... Elly had a great time filling them with chocolate coins and 'christmas eggs';

(I know, they look remarkably similar to Easter Eggs, except the packet said 'Christmas Eggs'! What's next, Easter Stockings?). There's also a little slip of paper inside each stocking, with a little activity we can do together in the lead up to Christmas.... I can't believe tomorrow is the 1st of December!

School Uniform Shopping

2011-11-27T08:05:00.000+11:00

Last week I took Livvie to buy her school uniform for Kindergarten next year. We had such a nice time on our Mummy-Daughter date. She is such a pleasure to take shopping, I love it how she always holds my hand and the whole time she had the the biggest smile on her face.

Like any little girl, she enjoys dressing up so she especially loved trying on her new uniform. I think our little shopping trip made quite an impression on her... this is the drawing she did later that day;

I love the spotty hot-air balloon and her rainbow hair! Not to mention the butterflies everywhere and our stripey stockings.

Of course, I remember the day slightly differently (ie. almost having a heart attack when I got the enormous bill at the end!) but it's so nice to see that it's all happy memories for her.

5 Little Houses

2011-11-25T20:46:00.000+11:00

I loved these little houses I saw on Retro Mama the other day and started making some that very evening. It helped that Nick was at a ex-serviceman's dinner that night (he used to be in the Air Force) as I always try to use my evenings alone to do a bit of sewing.

The pattern is lovely and the houses so adorable, I honestly think no matter what fabrics you choose, they will turn out super sweet anyway...

It was a great little project to have in my lap the last few days, as it has been raining here all week and we have been stuck inside most of that time.

I must admit I took a few short-cuts, like using felt for the doors, I didn't add any extra embellishment (but Retro Mama's birds are so cute!) and I also left the chimney off, in favour of thicker ribbon for hanging....

But I think they still turned out pretty cute, so mission accomplished... These will make great stocking stuffers for friends for Christmas!

Personalised Gifts for Girl Cousins

2011-11-25T18:40:00.001+11:00

I started making some Christmas presents over the weekend. For my nieces, I thought it would be fun to make them personalised pillowcases to match the colours in their bedrooms...

I bought plain white pillowcases and hand cut letters from fabric scraps. I didn't use interfacing, as I wanted these pillowcases to stay lovely and soft. For a pattern, I printed each name using the Cooper Black font in Word, enlarged to 500, then used a combination of machine and hand stitching to sew on each letter;

I just hope the girls aren't embarrassed by their Auntie's handmade gift! They are young teens (aren't they meant to sleep a lot at that age?) and although we will be giving them a Westfield's gift-card, I felt we should give them an actual wrapped-up present to open on the day.

So, coupled with a brand new comfy pillow inside and some personalised notepaper I just ordered from Moo (couldn't resist, with 33% off!), this means presents for our nieces are done!

Santa

2011-11-23T21:23:00.008+11:00

How exciting! My Dad just sent me this picture of himself in his new Santa suit. He's gone professional this year and is the resident Santa at a Sydney Shopping Centre (as opposed to his usual seasonal gig of making a guest appearance at our little Mothers' Group Christmas Party!).

Santa has also promised to pop in to our Preschool Christmas party in a couple of week time. The only thing is, do I tell Livvie (5 years old) that her Poppy is dressing up as Santa (because it is highly likely she will recognise him... Last year, when he appeared in his {considerably less fancy} Santa suit on Christmas morning, she looked at him closely and was rather perplexed, asking ~ and I quote; 'Is that Poppy in there?').

Or do I simply brush off any remarks that it might be Poppy by saying, 'Of course it's not... It's Santa!'. This new costume looks pretty convincing (especially compared to the last one, sorry Dad!) And Livvie pretty much believes everything I say ~ Honestly, I am prepared to lie in this instance, for the sake of a magical (albeit mildly suspicious, on her part) Christmas.

I think the fact she will be in party mode with 20 classmates (and their siblings!) and caught up in the moment of Santa arriving amid much bell ringing, horn tooting and the general woops of joy from kids, she will want to believe it really IS Santa!

Another thing...Poppy usually drives a white 1938 Packard. For the party, he will be arriving in his friend Wade's red 1937 Packard...

I wonder if she will see the vintage car and draw the connection to Poppy?

Hmm... what should I do? Do I tell her it is Poppy dressed up (she does understand people dress up in costumes for parties/halloween but then she misses out on the magic behind Santa's visit that day and I might have some explaining to do about the shopping centre Santa's who she believes are real too).... or cross my fingers and hope she doesn't recognise him (and if she does, lie to her). Yikes, that sounds bad! But this is Christmas... and she is only five years old... Please comment or email me your opinion!

(Also Dad, I think you need to find a way to get your wedding band off... that aroused the most suspicion last year.... 'He even had the same ring as Poppy!')

It's all fun and games until...

2011-11-23T19:40:00.004+11:00

I thought I'd take some photos of the girls outside yesterday, as they were playing. They were playful, happy and smiling...

But for some reason, they would not stand together so I could get a shot for our Christmas cards!

There was some dragging involved...

And tickling...

'Can't you just stand next to each other and hold hands?'

No!

{Isn't it always the way? Never on request!}

We used some vines growing over the fence as our backdrop and I thought I would show them how it's done (ie, stand still and smile!). I set the timer so we could get a shot of the three of us girls together and for a moment, it was all going so well...

...until we fell backwards, into the bushes!

Of course, then the girls just wanted to do that over and over again.... so now we have a whole bunch of photos like this.

However, our little game came to a very abrupt end when I stood up and as I was dusting myself off, I inadvertently wiped a huge slug off my jeans! {cue blood-curdling scream here and lots of jumping up and down like a madwoman}. It was so gross! Of course, that only made them laugh harder. And no, of course I didn't get a photo of it!

A Space for Sewing Supplies

2011-11-22T16:30:00.003+11:00

Meet my latest ebay acquisition.

Pity my poor father and husband for having to pick it up and lug it home for me on the weekend ~ in the sweltering heat.

It was built by a local man whose wife is an accomplished seamstress, however the little cupboard's original purpose was to house toys and books for their grandchildren. As soon as I saw it, it had to be mine! It started at $20 and I won the auction for $31. What a bargain!

Don't tell Nick, but it cost LESS than the blue and red vintage biscuit tin you can see on the bottom shelf - which I picked up in an antique shop, the last time we were in the Southern Highlands (Nick thinks I bargained the guy down, and I did, but only a bit!). My poor husband was definitely in shock that I had bough an old tin... and for how much?!?!?! Never you mind, my darling!)

Anyway, I could just imagine having this little cupboard, filled with all my sewing bibs and bobs, books, bobbins and buttons;

And finally, a place to put my sewing machine when out of use (as opposed to under the dining room table~ where I do all my sewing!). It's sort of a gift for Nick too (really!), seeing as this means all my mess will be in the one place now, instead of having fabric all strewn around the house!

Elly and I swung by The Fabric Cave on Monday and bought five embroidery hoops to add a bit of colour to the wall behind;

The ladies who sold them to me were very curious about me wanting five hoops (total $8)- they thought I was hosting a stitch-along and were a bit puzzled when I tried to explain my vision for them!

The best part of the cupboard (apart from the colour... apart from the size... apart from the price).... is what's inside;

It's always what's inside that counts! In this case, lots of shelves and storage space!

So on Monday we also swung by Ikea and picked up some frosted tubs and trays for my fabric. Fat Quarters...

Felt, Chenille and Knits;

And of course, two big trays for scraps!

Elly and I sorted everything by colour (we've been doing a lot of that lately) and I feel so much more organised now. It's amazing how just re-organising everything makes it all seem new and enticing again;

It all now sits just behind our little computer desk...

...so the next time inspiration strikes, I am hoping I can just turn around, pull out some fabric and get sewing! That's the plan, anyway...

Sock Reindeer

2011-11-17T14:50:00.005+11:00

Don't laugh... but this is currently hanging on our front door.

I found this lovely Sock Reindeer at an op-shop last week and just had to take it home with me. I can't believe someone spent all that time making it (it is very well made!), only to give it away. So I took it home and gave it a little makeover ~ new ribbons and reins and even curled its lashes...

To finish it off, I would need to find a large enough wreath for it to sit inside.... however given the size of this reindeer (it's rather large) and the size of our door (rather small), I think it will stay, in its current state, as a surprise for anyone who comes knocking at our door...

The girls think it's hilarious and Nick got quite a fright the first night it was up ~ he came home from work, walked up the front steps and it gave him a kiss as he opened the front door!

...with the cutest little love-heart button lips!

Believe it or not, I have found some instructions to make your own Sock Reindeer Wreath!

Handmade Snow Globes

2011-11-11T17:46:00.004+11:00

I made these for the girls to play with, after being inspired by the pictures today at Sweet Tidings (click through for many more wonderful handmade Christmas crafts!).

I thought I would share how I made them, as they were so simple...

Step 1: Gather supplies: Jars (Mine are from Ikea ~ Radjan 5oz), glitter, glue gun, buttons (for height) and two tiny christmas ornaments.

My grandmother gave me a set of her tiny vintage Christmas ornaments, these were the perfect size. I love that these snow globes have a little something from her inside, she would love them!

Step 2: Hot glue the buttons on top of each other, to make a little podium for your ornament;

Then glue it to the inside of the lid.

Step 3: Fill the jar almost full with cold water (warm water will go cloudy) and add 1/2 teaspoon (no more! trust me) of glitter;

Step 4: Cover the rim of the jar with hot glue, then very quickly screw the lid on top!

Tip: Make sure you put the lid on evenly, if it is tilted slightly the jar wont be airtight and not only will it leak water, but because of the hot glue, you may not be able to get the lid off to fix it!!

Then, another layer of hot glue around the inside rim makes it completely water-tight.

Let the magic begin!

I'm leaving these right where the girls can reach them, for lots of shaking and snowy winter wonderland fun!

Blue Smocked Dress

2011-11-10T08:15:00.009+11:00

Earlier this week, I had a request for a blue Cinderella dress. While I had no desire (and am definitely lacking the sewing skills) to make anything that resembles a Disney Cinderella dress, I suddenly remembered some fabric I bought about two years ago...

Smocked blue cotton... Not a great photo of it, but perfect for this little project.

This little dress took no time at all, probably 45 minutes total. One side seam, hemmed the bottom, folded the ruffle over and stitched across the top. The trickiest thing was turning the straps inside out and lining them up evenly on both sides. But soon we had a dress that was vaguely Cinderella-ish, if only in colour;

Livvie popped it on (with heels) straight away and gave it a practice run...

Then it was her dress of choice for Preschool the following day (with a white t-shirt ~ No straps and bare-shoulders allowed under this summer sun!)...

I think it would double nicely as a costume for Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz, especially with those plaits. All she needs is the glittery red shoes!

A Rainbow on the Top Shelf

2011-11-09T12:37:00.003+11:00

Today's goal was to clean up the bookcase in our lounge-room. Elly and I re-organised all the books, by colour.

This was BEFORE;

Notice the girls left-over picnic food on the bottom shelf (plastic food, thank goodness!) and then random bits and pieces shoved into each shelf. Christening candles... pay slips... random photos... What a mess!

And AFTER;

Ah, that's so much better.

(Yes, I obviously have too much time on my hands today!)

Christmas Stitching

2011-11-09T08:18:00.000+11:00

The Christmas crafting has started. I decided to practice some more embroidery with the Doodle Stitch Along by Aimee Ray. She shares a pattern for a very cute pair of woodland children, which I stitched up in Christmas colours. It's just so nice to sit and stitch of an afternoon...

Paper Doily Craft

2011-11-09T07:16:00.004+11:00

Elly chose a couple of ideas for Paper Doily Crafts from Pinterest...

Paper Doily Pumpkin

and got to work with her new paints yesterday...

This one was clearly her favourite...

Cards, cards, everywhere!

2011-11-08T20:56:00.006+11:00

Tell me I'm not the only one, who keeps every single card we have ever been given... Birthday cards, Baptism Cards, Birth Announcements, Invitations etc...

I'm not sure where I saw this idea, but did you know that A5 ring binders make the best card holders?

All you need is a standard hole punch and if you are lucky like me, it helps to have a little willing assistant on hand too;

These are her cards after all...

Yesterday we filled two folders for her (but I think we need about 3 more to finish the job) and she was so happy to have her own special cards all together, for easy viewing.

Of course, now there is the job of updating her big sister's book of cards. Being the first born child, I was gung-ho about putting all the Congratulations cards we received on her birth (over 100 of them!) into a big wedding-album style book;

But of course, the cards keep coming! And they are all so beautiful, I can't bear to throw them away...

Fudge

2011-11-05T21:57:00.008+11:00

Every so often, we take a little trip to the country for a few days. We don't go far (young children and long car trips = not much fun) but we do love the Southern Highlands. It's an easy two hour drive from Sydney, we usually stop half-way for morning tea and arrive there by lunchtime.

I don't know why, but I love taking photos of luggage. I like seeing what we packed, to go where. I've been taking pictures like these, since Nick and I took our first trip overseas. My how times have changed! Look at all those umbrellas, gumboots, lego and toys!

We have stayed at a couple of very nice farm stays in the Southern Highlands, but the last time we went, a couple of weeks ago, we stayed at the beautiful Luxstowe House.

Luxstowe House used to be the cooking school at Frensham, a girls boarding school. It was sold and relocated (literally put on the back of a truck and moved!) to Burradoo, and is now set in beautiful gardens...

{even the dog house was picturesque!}

Everything was so green...

So pretty and peaceful...

Magical...

Dreamy and other-worldy for our children to explore...

Cosy inside...

Can you tell I am missing it already?!?!

Our little family could very easily get used to this sort of country living!

But I really wanted to share with you a little secret about Kangaroo Valley...

Do you know about the fudge?

High on a hill... {blink and you will miss it!}... is a little sign that says Fudge & Toffee.

Pull in to that driveway!!!!!!

(You will probably be driving pretty fast along this stretch of road and you will probably nearly fish-tail off the road like we did, but believe me, this is worth risking your life for!)

Once you come to a screeching halt, this is what you will find;

A fridge.

A self-serve fridge!

A self serve fridge, filled with the Best Fudge (and Rocky Road, Turkish Delight and Coconut Ice) you will ever taste in. your. life!

Now you will need to go back to your car and raid your ash tray, glove box (children's pockets - whatever!) to find the coins you need, to buy this amazing fudge.

Of course, it works on an honesty system;

You must read the guestbook too; we saw one entry signed by people who choose to drive two hours out of their way when travelling back from holidays, just for this fudge!

(We may very well become those people).

But the good news is, you can order it online too; Fudge Addiction.

{It is really good. I have already stashed the coins in the car for next time!}

Sew Together

2011-11-04T16:37:00.009+11:00

Oh, I feel so special ~ I was the lucky, lucky girl who won the beautiful giveaway at Sew Together!

...including 3 yards of Sherbert Pips Fabric!

Sew Together is the inspiring blog of Caroline and Maryanne, two sisters in Sydney who run sewing classes and workshops so you can 'learn how to make gorgeous clothing and accessories for you and your children'.

I just love their blog, it is full of great ideas and projects, things they are currently working on (an amazing Dear Jane quilt) and finished pieces from the classes they teach. I like that the projects they choose are simple in design (great projects for beginners*) and of course, I also love the gorgeous fabric they choose!

My gorgeous prize arrived yesterday amid much excitement in our house. It was opened in such a hurry, I couldn't even get a photo of the goodies beautifully wrapped, with candy-cane striped twine. Along with the sherbert pips fabric (above), we received this beautiful handmade zippered pouch;

And all these pretty little hair accessories inside!

I love the hand-stitching and all the little details, so beautiful!

Needless to say, my girls and I are tickled pink...

Thank you so much, Maryanne and Caroline!

*I wish I had been able to do their five-week course when I was learning to sew 3 years ago. Instead, I fumbled along in a 10 week course at a community college, with a basic little girls dress to show for it at the end. At Sew Together, you leave each workshop or class with a completed project each week (eg. bunting, appliqued shorts, pillowcase dress) ~ how great is that?!?!

Do-A-Dot

2011-11-02T13:29:00.006+11:00

I found these great Do-A-Dot colours at RIOT Art & Craft today. They were $2 each and totally, completely mess-free. They didn't leak or drip and as soon as they hit the paper, the ink was dry!

The best part was discovering you don't just have to make dots, but you can drag them along and make lines. Elly loved them, holding one in each hand most of the time.

First she made spotty wrapping paper for a party this weekend and then portraits of our neighbours, which she posted in their letterboxes!

Definitely a great {mess-free} alternative to painting!

(These would make great stocking stuffers)

Recovering

2011-11-02T12:27:00.002+11:00

I can hardly believe it, but we missed Halloween this year. After having my wisdom teeth out in hospital last Thursday (Worst experience of my life! The surgeon and the hospital were great but I don't think I was quite prepared for the pain and agony, at all!) and after spending the next 4 days in bed recovering, I was still in no shape to take the girls trick-or-treating on Monday night.

We have spent lots of time at home, immersed in books. I stumbled across a fantastic book sale two weeks ago (I think it must be ex-Borders stock), so I stashed them away until now, when I knew I would really need them. We have definitely been inspired...

I tried my hand at embroidery again;

It is far from perfect but was a nice distraction, to learn some more stitches and have a practice. Of course, I was soon joined on the lounge by others who were interested too...

Love the little pot-belly!

The girls used Hessian, blunt needles and 6 strands of thread;

And created their own designs...

I was a bit unsure what to do with my little stitchery...

I used an old cot sheet for the back;

And turned it into a little doll's quilt;

Book Corner

2011-10-28T16:58:00.006+11:00

We have this little nook, beside our lounge, which we have turned into a little book corner for the girls.

Last week I added Photo Curator to the wall....which I bought from Made By Others, a beautiful Art & Design store in Moss Vale. These nifty little strips allow you to display photos directly on your walls ~ you simply slide the photos into the grooves.

I thought it would be a nice way to put up pictures of our last trip to the Southern Highlands, somewhere that the girls could see them. Every so often we will switch them around and put up new photos. Halloween pics will be next!

Today, I also added a painting the girls did together.

I got the idea for Fingerprint Trees on Pinterest. Livvie painted the sky while Elly painted the grass. Then I covered their hands and arms in brown paint and help them stamp them onto the canvas. Afterwards, they decorated the rest of the picture with fingerprint leaves, a sun and some flowers.

I just love the colours...

And it's the first piece of art they have made together {without fighting!}

Tissue Paper Bowl

2011-10-26T16:34:00.007+11:00

Today's craft was a great rainy-day activity. All you need is a bowl, cling wrap, non-stick spray, some glue (1/4 cup flour to 1/2 cup water) and strips of tissue paper.

Step 1: Turn the bowl upside-down, cover with cling wrap and spray with the non-stick spray.

Step 2: Apply a layer of glue, then a layer of tissue paper strips.

Then more glue;

Then more tissue paper strips.

Continue doing this, until you have done 5 - 10 layers.

(Elly did about 15 layers ~I don't think she wanted this little activity to end!)

It was very cold today, so we had no chance of drying Elly's bowl before the end of the day. I sped things up a bit by using a hair dryer; approximately 5 minutes for the outside, then carefully start pulling the cling wrap away from the {real} bowl and your tissue paper bowl should pop out. Then another 5 minutes with the hairdryer on the inside of the bowl and it's done. Voila!

Just a tip: Black tissue paper bleeds like crazy. We used it on our first layer and that was enough for the whole bowl!

And there really is nothing better than the look on your child's face when they pick it up for the first time and see that they have made something tangible, and beautiful too! Elly just can't believe she has made 'a real bowl!'.

Halloween Gingerbread House

2011-10-25T19:32:00.006+11:00

We started the celebrations early and made this Halloween Gingerbread House today.

Elly did a great job sorting (and sneakily eating!) the smarties; it was her job to decorate the house once I had applied the icing...

I have only ever made one gingerbread house before, which I constructed in full before decorating. Big mistake! Much easier to decorate, then construct the house, as we did today.

We kept things simple this time, using just licorice and smarties;

And a bit of one red jelly snake for the Red-Back Spider on the other side of the roof;

I had intended on making a licorice spider's web, but there is nothing like being brought back to reality by a three-year old asking, 'Wouldn't it just be easier to make a spider, Mummy?'. Yes! Much easier.

After dinner, we gave it the 'sparkler treatment';

{The girls sang 'Happy Birthday dear Halloween'}

Then Nick did the honours and smashed it open!

What a short life, this little house had. And I believe, tomorrow a bag of Halloween Gingerbread pieces will take up residence in Nicks drawer at work...

Dolls House

2011-10-24T14:54:00.000+11:00

Yesterday our girls got really lucky. We took them to the Loreto Spring Fair and in addition to eating Fairy Floss and lollies for morning tea and going on nearly all the rides, we bought them this beautiful dolls house from the Trash 'n Treasure .... for only $25!

Nick being a good Dad and husband, carried it back to the car for us;

Inside, we found 26 pieces of furniture...

Twenty-six!

Each room was colour coordinated;

There was even a little fireplace!

A nice long tub, a toilet and vanity for the bathroom;

A Country-style kitchen;

With little cloth napkins and tiny food on the shelves!

Windows and doors that open and close;

It also came with six dolls! So of course, we made sure there were two sisters, sleeping in twin beds, just like Livvie and Elly;

Last night I stitched up a few 'soft furnishings' to make the house a little more homely.

Pillows for the beds;

(The family from our other dolls house tested them out)

Cushions for the lounge;

And soon there were other 'friends' popping in;

I love watching my girls enjoy this sort of open-ended play and the clunkety-clunk as they move the furniture around;

And I definitely think I will be sewing up a few more things for the house... I'm thinking tiny quilts for the beds, some rugs for the floor and a teeny-tiny door mat with 'Welcome' stitched across it!

From Gift Box to Gift Tags

2011-10-23T19:11:00.003+11:00

For my birthday a couple of weeks ago, Nick's Mum gave me this beautiful Sugar and Creamer set.

I couldn't bear to just throw away the box it came in ~ I love the Rambling Rose design ~ so I got my scissors out and cut it up;

Now I have a beautiful sugar and creamer set AND a set of beautiful gift tags;

Fancy Pants

2011-10-22T08:46:00.008+11:00

How cute are these pants?!?!? Elly was the lucky recipient of these gorgeous pants, which were made for her by one of the Mums in our Mothers Group. Leanne is a wizz on the sewing machine and I really admire her ability to see something sweet (like a little girl in silky French cargo pants) and then re-create it perfectly;

These pants are so beautiful and soft. It was hard to get a picture of her in them, because she kept dancing around in her 'fancy pants', as she calls them. She wore them to her sister's Orientation Day at 'Big School' and she must have received at least 10 compliments on them.

We love anything handmade, but these are extra special because they seem to sparkle and Elly just loves them.

Thank you, Leeanne!

Cloud Dough

2011-10-20T16:35:00.007+11:00

Yet another great idea from Livvie's Preschool; Cloud Dough.

I found recipes online for a Cloud Dough that had the consistency of sand, but the one we ended up making (and the one at our Preschool) is a Cloud Dough that is soft and squishy like playdough, but more rubbery and oily. The best part is, it doesn't lose small balls of dough, like playdough can ~ it sort-of all sticks together, unless you really pull it apart.

The recipe is simple; 6 cups of plain flour, 1 1/2 cups of oil and 1 cup of water. Add tempera paint or food colouring then knead to a dough;

Then you can roll it out...

Chop it up;

And mould into anything you like!

It really does feel great and is a good little lazy-afternoon activity.

Gingerbread Cake

2011-10-20T07:39:00.007+11:00

Ikea are now selling their Gingerbread House Kits! I picked one up the other day for about $8. The girls are so excited about it and ask me almost everyday if we can make it. And very soon, we will!

But in the meantime, I thought we would bake the next best thing ~ Gingerbread Cake;

It is delicious. I like it even more than real gingerbread because it is rich and moist and let's be honest, it's Cake! I thought I would share the recipe here (from WW Cakes & Slices), just in case anyone is like us and can't wait for Christmas. This is a nice way to experience a taste of Christmas, just a little early.

****************************************

Gingerbread Cake

3/4 cup plain flour

1/4 cup self-raising flour

1/2 teaspoon bicarb of soda

1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon mixed spice

1/2 cup castor sugar

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 cup milk

60g butter

1/2 cup golden syrup

Sift flours, soda and spices into a large bowl, stir in sugar and combined egg and milk.

Combine butter and golden syrup in saucepan, stir constantly over heat without boiling until butter is melted, stir mixture into flour mixture.

Pour into prepared pan (we used a loaf tin)

Bake at 190 for 50 mins.

Lemon Frosting

60g butter

1 teaspoon grated lemon rind

1 cup icing sugar

2 teaspoons lemon juice

Beat butter and lemon ring in small bowl with electric mixer until creamy and gradually beat in sifted icing sugar and a few drops of lemon juice top make a spreadable consistency.

****************************************

I think the secret is in the lemon frosting... it is subtle in flavour, but goes perfectly with all the gingerbread spices.

On that note...

Care Bear Costume

2011-10-19T10:19:00.003+11:00

It all started with a pattern, drawn by Livvie;

'Easy Care Bear Costume'

It is her turn to present 'News' at Preschool today and the topic is 'My Hero'. I honestly wasn't too impressed with the topic to begin with and didn't think that, at 5 years old, she actually had a hero. But it turns out she does, and it's the Care Bears, 'because they care and share and love each other'.

So, I was hoping to {make my job easier} buy a pink tracksuit and just add some ears to the hood and a rainbow to the tummy, but alas it was not to be ~ as we are heading into the summer months here, I just couldn't find one anywhere.

I then realised I would have to make one (gulp!) without a pattern (yikes!). I never seem to have any luck with drafting my own patterns and then turning it into something 3D.

Now, this is far from perfect... but after a couple of hours and a large amount of work by my seam ripper, I emerged from a huge pile of pink material, exhausted but triumphant.... to present her with this;

Definitely homemade! Pants too tight. Neckline too small.

It is quite a job, just trying to get her inside it!

BUT.... it is pink and cuddly and more importantly, it vaguely looks like Cheer Bear! {I couldn't resist adding a love heart on the bottom!}

Of course, Livvie loves it and is one happy little Care Bear today;

And all going well, this will double as her Halloween costume.

Thankfully, her sister has chosen to be a Monkey this year;

This year? Well, she has always been a Monkey...

But thankfully, Spotlight sells Monkey costumes!

Thank You Cards

2011-10-13T21:13:00.005+11:00

I have, yet again, fallen behind on sending Thank You cards.

With so many things to be thankful for and many people to thank, today I printed out some Free Greeting Cards from Canon Creative Park;

The printer paper was a bit flimsy,

so I stitched them onto some folded cardboard (ex manila folders);

Now I have no more excuses. These will be posted tomorrow!

Swimming Pool Birthday Cake

2011-09-28T21:16:00.004+10:00

Tomorrow, Nick turns 37 and his special request was a cake he remembers dreaming about as a young boy... the Swimming Pool Cake from the Women's Weekly Birthday Cake Book. I did a quick search and found a photo and the recipe at Ruby-Jo.

I was happy to oblige ~ Elly and I had lots of fun making it today. We are stretching the celebrations out over two days so he had his cake tonight (he couldn't resist) and we'll go out for a fun Teppanyaki dinner tomorrow night.

It was so easy to put together... paper umbrellas, green jelly (jello), chocolate sticks, licorice ladder, jelly snakes for rubber rings and little plastic babies. I painted their bathers on with red nail polish!

We couldn't find a single candle, but we had a packet of sparklers that came in handy;

There was, of course, a glittery party hat for the birthday boy;

(Apparently his boss is always telling him he has glitter on his face at work. He has to do a quick 'glitter check' before every meeting!)

In the time it took me to get a knife and bowls to serve the cake, the girls had made sure every baby had dived into the jelly and had a 'swim';

This was definitely a fun cake to make and one I would love to make again (And that's not something I usually say, after making a cake!).

A Mum from Preschool gave me a great tip... white buttercream frosting under the jelly, so the 'water' doesn't look murky. And it was so yummy... I never realised jelly and and cake is such a good combination!

Happy Birthday, Nick!

Pretty Peg Dolls

2011-09-23T17:24:00.005+10:00

I have been experimenting with some odds and ends - fabric scraps, ribbon, buttons and glitter (all my favourite things) and came up with these little dolls.

With flower beads for crowns;

Over-size button belts;

Sparkly hair and love-heart lips!

Four little dolls, all in a row...

Much more fun to make than the painted Peggy Legs Dolls I made so long ago. Using fabric and other embellishments makes them even sweeter, I think.

Baby Hats

2011-09-18T11:00:00.001+10:00

I wanted to make some little hats for our friend's new baby boy and I found a great Top Knot Baby Hat Tutorial at Prudent Baby.

It was my first time sewing with knits and it was actually a lot easier than I had imagined. Of course, I was focussing so much on not stretching the fabric as I went, that I forgot about other important things like matching up stripes on the side seams and changing my zigzag to a smaller stitch size.

Oh well... I think they turned out pretty cute anyway!

Then I couldn't resist making one for a little girl too...

I really love making these, its so nice to work with fabric that is so soft...

They are such quick and easy gifts to make, easily addictive!

Six Years Ago Today

2011-09-17T09:43:00.000+10:00

Put a Bird On It

2011-09-14T13:56:00.009+10:00

Oh, how I wish we had this show in Australia. Portlandia....It looks hilarious!

If you want to have a good laugh, watch this clip. It always cheers me up. If you love craft and want a simple solution to all your worries, I am sure it will put a smile on your face too...

Princess Party

2011-09-09T19:04:00.002+10:00

Two weeks ago, my eldest daughter turned five. We celebrated with family, hosting a very simple princess party at home. So simple and so last minute, that I didn't even have time to make or send proper party invitations, which is not like me at all (Usually I plan these things months in advance!). I really wasn't feeling very well, but as always, I did enjoy making some special things for the party and making a fuss of my beautiful girl.

Almost everything was done at the last minute, including Tissue Paper Pom-Poms;

Paper Doily Bunting with photos of each year of her life (although she was very quick to tell me that she was actually four years old in the last picture...)

A Princess dress and special crown;

Crowns for all the Princes and Princesses attending the party;

(When you leave everything to the last minute, you really can't expect to find crowns that colour-coordinate with the party colours!)

I quickly drew and water-coloured a game of 'Pin the Crown on the Princess';

We had a Princess Castle Pinata;

(It got a little dangerous with the golf club! Especially those of us who were taking out our frustrations at the Census work on the poor old Pinata!)

We stuck with trusted favourites for party food... sausage rolls, party pies and mini hot dogs (thanks to Nick for his kitchen and serving skills...if it were left to me, I would have burned the house down, for sure!), as well as cheese platters, jelly cups, chips and lollies;

I made a Mars Bar Slice with pink sprinkles as well as some chocolate dipped strawberries and bought some Raspberry and Strawberry Macaroons;

I already had some Princess fabric to brighten up the table...

I had made some cookies in the shape of princess crowns, but the icing dried funny and they ended up covered in a sickly looking pink-and-white marbled effect so I ditched them (ie. Nick ate them over the next couple of days).

And the cake. The very underwhelming wonky castle cake;

I had grand plans for this cake, but at the last minute we decided to take Livvie out for a special birthday dinner the night before the party (I still hadn't made the cake at this point) and then as an extra special treat, we drove across town for dessert at a new chocolate shop Sucre. It was so worth it, but we got home late and it didn't really leave me much time to get creative;

But the main thing was Livvie loved it all;

She had a great time at her party;

And it was a very Happy 5th Birthday!

Warm Cool Quilt

2011-09-08T20:32:00.004+10:00

Oh, the irony of starting a quilt two months ago... a baby quilt. I had no idea I was pregnant and yet, when I saw the beautiful Quilt-along at the amazing blog In Color Order, I knew I had to start one straight away.

It was a great project for using up scraps and involved lots of small steps, so I could do just a little each day. And before I knew it...

I learned how to make Half-Square Triangles and I now absolutely love this technique. And although I am definitely not one for accurate measuring, I really enjoyed the precision cutting that this quilt required ~ and somehow, in the end, all those points matched up!

I found some cute backing fabric at Spotlight with little birds and birdhouses and although it's a bit 'loud' (next time, I think I should aim to have a 'loud side' and a 'quiet side' to a quilt!), I like how it turned out. I finished hand-stitching the binding last night and it was ready for action today.

I have given this quilt to Livvie, but as you can see, I think it is something we can all enjoy;

Simple Things

2011-09-07T20:21:00.000+10:00

What a week it has been, honestly a bit of a roller coaster. Thankfully there was no ectopic pregnancy and the 'cyst' near my ovary is resolving itself naturally. This was the best news I could have had... and even though thats what I got, it somehow (of course) didn't make things seem any better.

Thank goodness for my two little girls, who keep me busy. I just love being at home with them... they have been amazing through this whole ordeal and truly, make everything easier to deal with. This week we have enjoyed the simple things...

Playing puzzles in our pyjamas;

Boards games at brunch;

It really is so nice to just sit down and watch children play;

All the wonderful little worlds they create;

Dress ups is always a favourite, with the costume jewellery;

Adding a bit of sparkle always brightens our day. Just like...

...watching Elly play the cymbols with her feet!

There have been plenty of games of 'Hide & Seek';

A little bit of painting;

'The Great Snail Race' by Elly

Washing up their little play-kitchen utensils;

Discovering a huge page of templates in one of my quilting magazines and transforming it into a colourful poster;

Yesterday, a picnic at the Wildflower garden;

And today, a morning at the water park;

So many things to be grateful for and many moments {and chocolate biscuits} savoured.

Heartbreak

2011-08-31T10:04:00.004+10:00

Last month we were overjoyed to find out we were pregnant and expecting our third baby. It came as a complete surprise but one which were were absolutely delighted about... all four of us could not have been happier and we have loved sharing this little secret amongst ourselves and waiting for the time to tell everyone.

However, this week our little family had some very sad news. Tragically, on Monday I suffered a miscarriage. I honestly can't believe I am writing those words. What started as such excitement...

...was confirmed with blood tests and the tell-tale morning sickness for the past few weeks.

When I told my husband the good news, Nick was ecstatic ('Happier than I have ever been' were his exact words) and the girls were beyond excited. I have loved every second of being pregnant with each of my babies. It truly is the best feeling, to be carrying a precious little baby inside. Unfortunately for reasons we do not know, this little baby stopped growing.

'Mummy with a baby in her tummy' by Livvie

We are all devastated and mourning the loss of our littlest one, aged only 7 weeks.

Unfortunately we are now faced with the additional anguish of being told yesterday that I have a possible (additional? they are unsure) ectopic pregnancy; my Obstetrician has discovered something growing near my left ovary.

I will have follow-up blood tests tomorrow, which will either confirm or rule out an ectopic pregnancy. If it is, we face another terrible loss. If it is not ectopic, further investigation is needed to find out what it is. It may be a mass of varicose veins and this is what I am hoping for, although I am unsure what this means for my ovary.

There is so much more I could write, but it is all really exhausting and I feel like I am in a bit of a daze. Thank you to family and friends for your support at this time. I will update you when I can.

T-shirts turned into Wall Art

2011-08-23T12:36:00.008+10:00

Apparently if you leave your children at home with your husband on a rainy {and thus, very muddy} weekend, with no laundry done, he thinks it's time to re-stock their wardrobes;

I love all these colours...

The shoes, the ruffles, the stripes and the polka dots;

Which makes me think of two things. 1) How can I have this same principal applied to me (I am not one for running outside to jump in puddles mid-thunderstorm and never really need to change clothes once I am dressed for the day ~ unlike our girls who revel in messy play)... and 2) Now I get to cut up their old clothes!

Exhibit A;

Very loved, but very old T-shirt (now tissue-paper thin!). This one has been a favourite of both my girls. And now it has become a piece of Wall Art, in an embroidery hoop...

The little details are just too cute!

This T-shirt was much the same;

It had to be salvaged too;

Yet another;

Putting them in a hoop really brings them back to life!

The finished pieces, ready for hanging;

Creative Hair Washing

2011-08-15T19:54:00.006+10:00

We even like to get creative when it comes to hair washing;

A bit of pampering like this, saves a lot of tears (both theirs and mine!). Both our girls have super-long hair and washing it has always been a bit of an ordeal for everyone involved... until now!

Always followed afterwards by...

...a cloth-nappy up-do!

We've been doing this every week for over a year and I don't know what it is, but they just seem to love having their wet hair wrapped up in a towel!

Knitting Pins

2011-08-12T19:35:00.003+10:00

When I saw these sweet little knitting needles at the Wool and Craft Nook today, I knew my girls would love them...

Who wouldn't? How cute are the little faces on top!

As soon as we got home, my littlest one snuggled under her quilt and practiced her 'knitting'...

(otherwise known as wrapping yarn around a stick!)

Rainbow Garden

2011-08-12T07:09:00.002+10:00

I know it's a bit early, but this week we added some spring colour to our garden. Elly is already a keen little gardener, watering her flowers like clockwork everyday;

I think we might add a little bit more colour every week and hopefully soon, we will have (in her words) 'a rainbow garden!'

Wooden Aeroplane

2011-08-11T15:16:00.005+10:00

Look what crash landed in our front yard today!

When I stopped to chat to a neighbour this morning and admired this beautiful wooden aeroplane on his verandah, he very quickly offered it to me, saying 'If you want it, it's yours!'.

Apparently his youngest grandchild is 8 years old and is too big for it now. His family has no use for it anymore and were trying to figure out what to do with it. I asked him if he had made it himself... and that's when he told me it's {wonderful!} history...

He was driving to Canberra about 15 years ago when he stopped by Berrima. The inmates from the nearby jail were having a Market Day, selling the things they had made whilst serving their time. He spotted this wooden plane and bought it, but couldn't take it with him that day.

On his way home from Canberra, he stopped by the jail to pick it up. He had to bang on the door loudly, to be let in. They let him in, he signed a few forms and then they handed over the plane. Only, it was too heavy for him to carry by himself. 'No worries', said the Warden, 'Davo will help you'.... 'DAVO!!!!' he yelled down the corridor.

Davo was one of the inmates...a big, strong fellow, who picked it up with one hand (much like my Dad did this morning!) and carried it to the car for him. Once they got back to the car, my neighbour thanked him and said, 'I'll walk you back now.'

To which big Davo replied, 'It's ok, I'm a trustee'.

Needless to say, my neighbour did walk him back inside and along the way, asked how long he was serving?

'12 years' was the reply... but my neighbour never did find out what for!

What a story!

What a generous neighbour!

Thank you Mr M!

The Dentist and the Treasure Chest

2011-08-05T14:44:00.007+10:00

You may be wondering what water balloons have to do with going to the Dentist. But for us, it has everything to do with it. I took both girls along for a check-up today and along with getting to wear the Dentist's cool sunglasses and going for a ride in the chair, afterwards they each got to choose a toy from his treasure chest. It is literally filled to the brim with the best toys.... Elly chose Silly Putty and Livvie chose a Water Bomb Kit!

Because it was such a warm day, hot even, I suggested the girls put on their swimmers, then we got to work making those water bombs. For maximum fun, I suggested taking them on the trampoline;

In the words of Elly, 'This am a great idea!'

[Trick photography: Livvie perched on top of the trampoline]

They had such a fun time, bouncing around, getting splashed by the popping balloons!

They threw them up above them, jumped on them, poked them, stomped on them;

Of course, once all the balloons had popped, they wanted to do it all again.... so we went back to the tap to make more for Round 2;

It hardly seems like Winter anymore. Of course rain is forecast for tomorrow...

Buttons galore

2011-08-04T19:36:00.003+10:00

Today's craft was inspired by this tutorial by Jen Jockish.

Buttons are so fun and easy for kids to work with (so pretty too!) and of course, preschoolers are very preoccupied with letter recognition (particular those in their own name), so both girls loved this activity...

The girls simply painted the wooden letter of their first initial... then glued buttons on, of their choosing. Too easy!

They each had their own ideas about how to decorate their letter; Livvie's was of course, pink with more pink and Elly went crazy with colour;

I love how they turned out and think they will make a nice addition to the walls of their bedroom.

Reversible Placemats

2011-08-03T21:10:00.004+10:00

It's often the way... I bought this stripey-strawberry fabric the other day and couldn't wait to make some simple placemats for our table;

But... I ended up liking the fabric on the reverse side even more;

{So did my daughter}

Recent Drawings

2011-08-03T20:55:00.004+10:00

'Three Princesses' by Livvie;

'Monster' by Elly;

(Those are eyes and legs, all around his body)

'Daddy & Mummy' By Elly;

(I love my spiral hair and long legs.... However, like Nick, I seem to resemble a potato!)

and 'Mimi and Poppy' (Grandparents) by Elly;

I have started making little stapled-together books, just so I don't lose any of these funny little drawings.

Milk Bath

2011-08-01T16:12:00.004+10:00

After delivering Census forms for the past 4 days, knocking on over 300 doors (only 195 to go!), all I am thinking about is soaking in a tub of this beautiful stuff tonight. Have you ever tried it? It is from the Body Shop and it is absolutely divine!

"A subtly fragrant milk powder that when added to bath water, turns into an indulgent, creamy foam that cleanses, soothes and moisturises the skin."

Magic Trees

2011-07-27T19:34:00.012+10:00

I should definitely have bought more of this beautiful fabric from Saffron Craig at the Craft fair... Poor Elly thought I'd made this skirt for her (being green, her favourite colour), but I'd actually made it in Livvie's size and there was no way she was giving it to her little sister!

I do realise there will come a time when they will be too embarrassed to wear anything I make for them, but I think as long as I keep using beautiful fabric like this, I'm safe.

I have been trying to take some time each day, for a bit of sewing... even if it's 10 minutes of cutting one day, then 20 minutes of sewing the next. Sitting down at my sewing machine always piques the girl's interest in creating something too... and I love it how they truly believe we can make anything we want to, with just a bit of fabric, a couple of buttons and some ribbon!

Elly's skirt will be next.... She will want to help with everything and I love that. Over the recent school holidays, Nick and I made the {rather big!} decision to take Elly out of Preschool for now. She really wasn't herself there and unfortunately, became incredibly frustrated by the experience.

We agonised over the decision... but ultimately thought it best for her to be at home for now. (Just as we believe it is best for Livinia to be at Preschool, she absolutely loves it for all the structure, being a part of a class and just thrives amongst all the beautiful friendships she has made there). But what a difference it has made to Elly! I have honestly never seen her happier and it is so lovely having her at home with me. It was hard, giving my shifts at school to someone else, but thankfully, they were all very understanding and I am able to be involved with the school in other ~ more creative ~ ways, but more on that later.

Anyway, I think I might be sharing more preschooler crafts on this blog, as this seems to be what consumes my world right now! And in the rare moments (mere minutes!) that I get to myself, I will try to do a little bit of sewing...

'Posterize' your photos

2011-07-26T19:36:00.011+10:00

I would really love to do a photography course one day,

but until then, I will keep using Picnik....

I just love it! Especially their 'Posterize' effect ~ I think a couple of these will be going up on our walls very soon...

Hand Knitted

2011-07-25T19:23:00.007+10:00

Thank you to Great-Auntie Di, who knitted the girls these lovely winter tops in the colour of their choice;

Not only are they beautiful and warm, but they are the perfect fit too. We love anything handmade so these are extra special....and I especially appreciate the many, many hours of knitting that went into making each of these. What a labour of love!

Kids Cutlery Roll

2011-07-23T07:17:00.001+10:00

My girls love setting the table for me. They also love having little indoor picnics with their bears and dolls and lately, they revel in setting up a restaurant for Nick and myself, with a table cloth, placemats, napkins and now they can use these too...

They disappear into the kitchen and we hear a lot of giggling and they return to serve us some very special meals, such as Vegemite and Jam on Toast (together) and 'Chicken Surprise'... which is basically a cake tin filled with a random concoction of ingredients from what they can reach on the shelves in the panty and fridge.

Anyway, I saw this idea in The Crafty Kid by the Crafty Minx and I thought it was a really pretty way to bundle up their cutlery, for playtime, picnics and anytime they want to help set the table;

I knew they would each like having their own little set... so Livvie's has pink ribbon and Elly's is the Tiffany blue;

5-minute Makeover

2011-07-22T11:53:00.008+10:00

You can probably tell I only spent 5 minutes on this top today. But these little flowers are so much prettier than the stains on Elly's top, that I was trying to cover up!

I think this will look cute with some dark jeans or a navy skirt and white tights. Now I'm looking for some more tops in need of a make-over!

Personalised Colouring Books

2011-07-21T19:04:00.010+10:00

It rained all day today, so I made the girls some personalised colouring books using Picnik;

I simply uploaded the photos I wanted to use, then used the 'Effects' tab under the 'Create' section to change the picture to 'Pencil Sketch'.

I then added some Text (as Livvie is so keen on learning to write everyone's names properly!) and Voila!

These are just some of the pictures (they each had 10 photos to colour in their book) and the girls are just loving working their way through all the memories inside, talking about their friends and cousins that they love so much and all the fun things they have enjoyed together.

I haven't managed to snap any photos of their coloured-in pictures yet, but you should see the crazy hair everyone has, based on what the girls think each person's favourite colour is! Not to mention the lipstick drawn on the girls and the rosy cheeks... it's quite a sight!

I thought this idea would also be good for some paper placemats, the next time we have little friends over.... And I like the idea of making a colouring book for each of the girls, filled with pictures of their favourite toys, as a little keepsake too of their personalities at this age and stage. I like this effect on photos and I think you could use it in so many different ways. Maybe even a birthday invitation...?

With or Without Nap

Valentines Day 2012

Apple Picking

Gallery Elyssia

Evidence That Summer *Did* Happen

School Calendar

Week #1 Lesson Learned

First Day of School

Knitted Bunny

Laundry Play

Australia Day

{Frozen} Water Play

Blue Fairies

The Best Hiding Spot

Hello? Hello!

Happy New Year!

Christmas Day Lunch

Christmas Day 2011

Christmas at Mimi & Pop's

Christmas in the City

Six Skirts

By the fire...

Two Skirts

Peggy-leg Angels

Santa

She's apples

Handmade gifts for us

Gifts for Preschool Friends

Reindeer Cookies

Teacher Gifts

Oh Christmas Tree

Tray mobile

Advent - Day #2

Advent Calendar

School Uniform Shopping

5 Little Houses

Personalised Gifts for Girl Cousins

Santa

It's all fun and games until...

A Space for Sewing Supplies

Sock Reindeer

Handmade Snow Globes

Blue Smocked Dress

A Rainbow on the Top Shelf

Christmas Stitching

Paper Doily Craft

Cards, cards, everywhere!

Fudge

Sew Together

Do-A-Dot

Recovering

Book Corner

Tissue Paper Bowl

Halloween Gingerbread House

Dolls House

From Gift Box to Gift Tags

Fancy Pants

Cloud Dough

Gingerbread Cake

Care Bear Costume

Thank You Cards

Swimming Pool Birthday Cake

Pretty Peg Dolls

Baby Hats

Six Years Ago Today

Put a Bird On It

Princess Party

Warm Cool Quilt

Simple Things

Heartbreak

T-shirts turned into Wall Art

Creative Hair Washing

Knitting Pins

Rainbow Garden

Wooden Aeroplane

The Dentist and the Treasure Chest

Buttons galore

Reversible Placemats

Recent Drawings

Milk Bath

Evidence That Summer Did Happen