Wednesday 9 December 2015

Neck nibblers and tinsel

As i type someone called Godric is killing a man called Gabe and now Eric has arrived. Season two of True Blood keeps me busy whilst i 1) tidy the house, 2) whilst i wrap Christmas presents and 3) keep my mind off  the op that is heading closer and closer Yesterday was the gynae physiotherapy talk. A model of the female bits causing giggles as the pelvic floor muscle, fell out, as we passed it around the room. We were all a little concerned about what was ahead, let's face it, our bodies are going to be cut and after the pain we will be a long time in recovering. I've plans in place, cross stitch and cardmaking will be my recovery aids, as well as watching my dvd's. And the odd bit of housework of the easy and light type.

I know this hysterectomy will be a blessing, i've had enough periods to last two life times and i just can't take the pain anymore. Labour pain levels every week is just too much. But this will be a challenge, and i know i must listen to the medical professionals, not people with their judgemental crap. And i know Christmas will be very different but i intend to make it very special for my son. I will do my best to have as much fun as i can, and i'm sure Christmas movies will be a good excuse to sit down and laugh.

At the same time, today i am thinking of all that needs doing before the 15th. The craft stuff that needs moving, the group tomorrow and the tv that still lingers in our lounge where a tree will go as soon as possible.
At the same time, i have boxes to sort through and a bookcase to tidy. Well i say tidy, it's craftbits, and they just need re-arranging so i can fit more on. I also have 4 presents to wrap today, before my son comes home from school. Got laundry to fold too.

So enough time typing, this lady has chores to do.

Friday 4 December 2015

Existence

In 11 days i have major surgery, A hysterectomy. I will go in and come out again, if all goes well. I will deal with this alone, and i doubt i'll have visitors whilst i am in. A nurse will come and maybe check on me when i go home, and days of mindless tv and stitching will be it for the first couple of weeks.

Today is housework, cardmaking and mindless tv. No phonecalls will break my day and the only post is christmas presents for people who have no time for me. My own flesh and blood, not my son, but my other family , my mum, my brother, people who are meant to like you, love you, etc.

I am making cards for people who don't ring, or text, and i'll post these cards at 95p a time, knowing that they will end up in a bin somewhere. Yes christmas time is here. And i feel no christmas spirit. I feel no joy, or happiness. I feel very alone and going out in the outside world is no longer an option. I have been made fully aware i don't fit. i have no purpose, no use other than to bring up my son and support him through what live throws at him. That is my only reason to exist.

I have no idea what i can do, other than keep going for my son, and hide the fact inside i feel dead and numb. As for this, no one will read it, no one will care and i just share my thoughts to the vastness of the world wide web. Another place i don't fit in either.

Sunday 8 November 2015

Pain and non-crafting.

October quickly turned into November and the weather has changed. Cold winds and heavy rain, with the odd patch of sunshine to brighten everything briefly. The bird feeder is busy, the birds and squirrel stocking up and the herbs are surprisingly doing quite well. I shall have to harvest the mints and lemon balm again soon. Pumpkins and squashes fill our veg rack, their bright colours a break from the greyness of winter and delicious smells as the slow cooker slowly turns ingredients into something warm and wonderful.

Halloween meant pumpkins needed carving. A change in tactic meant the back was removed and scooped out, an easier method for hands that don't want to play. A face cut slowly with the sharpness knife we have and the results were cheerful and fun.
We had two lots of trick/treaters and our candy pile shrunk a little. The rest will slowly keep us company til the end of winter, a small treat from time to time.

The flesh from the pumpkins was turned into soup and the seeds i admit i put into the composter. After removing the flesh and helping my son with his homework i was just beyond frazzled. The soup however was delicious and warming. A recipe by Cranks which is always a winner.

And today, the plans are just sorting, both my head and the housework. An appointment with the shrink at 11 whilst at home the washing machine will juggle it's load of colours for me to hang up on the return home and then thoughts will turn to sorting out the lounge with the hoover and just maybe some polish. We shall see. Right now it's time to sort out the lunch for a 12 year old with hollow legs and the fussy cat whose preferred cat food is yet unknown..






Tuesday 13 October 2015

Distant and dreaming

Sorry i've been missing. Life has thrown all sorts to this home, to both my son and i. Some good, some bad and some a mystery to be solved. Two birthdays, a major operation just before Christmas and a lot to sort out before then. Christmas shopping has started. 4 people already sorted and cards being made already. I'm also stitching christmas motifs in various colours and after buying 1000 venus threads i have plenty to keep me busy for a while. Also deciding that i need the food in ready for after the operation has meant i have had to buy extra each week, so that come the time it's all done. The kitchen is a little full in places but i have to do this. We certainly have enough cereal!

Our birthdays are pretty close to each other, i turned 43 and my son turned 12. Royal mail still has 2 cards that belong to us waiting to be delivered and some of my son's presents were late due to the same company...Now that the Royal mail has been sold off, i'm hoping things will improve, but somehow i doubt it.
At the same time, other half wasn't able to come down, and i freely admit that made us all feeling down. The added fact he won't be down when i have the op is a hard thing to figure, i feel let down, not just by him but others, after all i'm a single mum, about to have major surgery with a long recovery period and instead of feeling blessed by all the help, i feel like i've become a burden to everyone and with no support at all i'm not sure how i'm going to cope. As for my CMHT, well i'm just an annoyance to them, and having to get a doctor involved when they wouldn't help wasn't something i wanted to do, but a deep dark depression is taking me through the floor and beyond. If i'm not crying i'm shaking, and mindfulness skills only work so far.

In other news, my son is doing amazingly well at his new school. He loves big school and is enjoying most of the lessons. Art isn't his favourite, the dread of using something messy still an issue. Making cards is one thing, but art, that is whole other level. Science is of course a favourite. He loves it and the chance to do experiments was always going to be a big plus. He likes his teachers and they like him. He certainly has impressed two girls in his year too, they keep asking him out! He is always the gentleman even though they scare the life out of him,lol.

The heating finally went on yesterday, the coldness of winter is well on it's way .Admittedly  part of me is looking forward to it, but the rest not so much. I know i have plenty of craft stuff to keep me busy, and when on recovery time, i'll be stitching when ever i can. No lifting die cutting machines here... partly why i'm die cutting over the next few weeks, to make supplies for if i get the urge to papercraft as well. Weather news keeps reporting it's going to be  a harsh winter so i'm also making sure we have enough food for the birds, the cat and cat litter, an order to sort next week so all is covered. I'm wondering about salting the paths this year too. Last thing that anyone wants is a fall or slip, but that i'm going to look into before snow and ice arrive.

All in all, a lot going on and plans that need sorting and double checking. #Take care everyone and happy crafting when you have the time.

Sunday 6 September 2015

Changing seasons

There is a cold bite in the air this morning, even the cat is a bit shocked. Autumn is on it's way. Thoughts turn to feeding the birds extra, they will need the extra foods, and stocking up on enough food for them this winter. Winter this year is rumoured to be a hard, cold one due to El NiƱo , and seeing as our summer was so changeable i do wonder if the predictions will be true. But a cold winter also means more chance to stitch, craft and watch films in the early evenings, and though fibro will probably be nasty, i'm planning Art Therapy for the days i can barely move.

Last night, i manage to finish the hot air balloon i was stitching. I'm quite pleased with how it turned out, and i have a feeling it will end up in my son's room. He certainly likes it a lot.

My next stitch project i haven't decided on yet, but housework is the main order of the day, and keeping an eye on the curry in the slow cooker. The smell of the spices is already appealing and will a welcome meal this evening. I'm planning to do a Belgium cake this week too, using a Cranks recipe from 1982. It will use up the jar of mincemeat that is in the cupboard and like most of their recipes, it is sure to delight the taste buds. Their book, which my gran brought is well loved and much used, even after 30 years and it's also my turn to book for when it's soup season. Their Chunky Bean Soup a much loved favourite!

So as my son heads to school and the cat explores his domain, time for me to depart, washing calling.

Slow pace

The bright colours stand out and the design is finally finished. I'm delighted with how it's turned out, and i admit resting my ankle has proved a blessing, as it has re-newed my love of cross stitch. This floral design is so cute, and i'll be happy once it's framed and on a wall somewhere. Perfect design for the end of summer.

The design that i'm doing now is a small hot air balloon , which is driving me a little batty but it's such a lovely design, i'm battling through. I'm counting once, twice and trice and still make the odd silly miscount which i have to unpick and re-do, but i'm enjoying the challenge, plus the chance to catch up on a film or two. It only has three colours, all of which mix well, and gives it a slightly masculine theme. Hopefully it will be finished by tomorrow so i can use it for either a card, or a coaster, or framed in a small painted hoop. Or my son will ask for it, to go in his bedroom. We'll see.

Yesterday after doing the recycling, we had a mad moment. 5 snails which were in one of the recycle bags, (did you know they like eating paper?), were placed on the table we have in the garden. I grabbed the chalk and a track was drawn. Their prize, a couple of leaves of kale. After a very long wait, snail number two made a dash, number 3 climbed over number 4 and 1 & 5 just slept on. Number 2 finally won, and with number 4 being second. Number 1 & 5 still slept on, even when at one point number 3 climbed over them.

All in all it was a daft moment but great fun and though none of them were Turbo we enjoyed ourselves and in the end all the snails got some kale, before retiring under the table, away from curious cat and very hyped child. Proof also that some things that free to do, can be so much fun.

Have a good day all.

Thursday 3 September 2015

Progress

A sign, bright and to the point, and as i read the sign, what happens, i slip, on the wet floor of the public loo. If the irony wasn't enough, a pulled ankle is the result. So today, i put yesterday's incident behind me and help my son get ready for school, for real this time, no confused dress rehearsal. His hearty lunch is ready, his bag packed and the tie issue has been sorted, though i admit i'm very out of practice. Let's face most of us females only ever wear a tie at school.



And now with the morning chaos out of the way, my son kills time watching cartoons, before his chaperon arrives, and i grab a few moments to enjoy my cup of tea, and rest my ankle again. I know i have the food delivery to deal with this morning, but i also have a couple of recipes i want to find, but also i must rest this ankle, so stitching will be on the cards too. As you can see i've made a little more progress with this cute design, and i'm hoping to finish it, either today or tomorrow.



I've also finished off a design that i started over 8 years ago, maybe even 10 years , thinking about it. I say finished and it is, well as far as i can go, due to the chart being missing, without a trace. But to finally have it at this stage is a good moment, one less UFO ( Un Finished Object) to be ticked off the list. I have a few Bang On The Door designs still left to stitch, and hopefully with my renewed love of cross stitch instead of reading. I still have my cardmaking but i've decided to take a break, one to renew my ideas as i've hit a block on making them at the moment, but also so that i can re-arrange my supplies so that it's a little less chaotic. I know i have christmas coming soon, i know 3 months away, but i need to start early if i intend to make plenty for this year, and also make some for PDSA to sell after all the help they have given us.

And now, my son has gone to school, his face beaming with excitement as he went on his new journey, his smile bright against the grey skies, and oh so smart in his uniform. I admit to a wobbly lip, my little boy is now a young man but i am so , so proud. He's come a long way and i see him going much further at his new school.

Enjoy your day.

Tuesday 1 September 2015

Confusion and joy.

We got up early, 6 am. Breakfast was shortly after and then the get ready for school, new school. The smart uniform put on carefully, after normal every day tasks were completed. Then the getting nerves sorted, both the child's and mine. Excitement filled the air. Awaiting the arrival of transport was the final task. But where was transport, the time had drifted on and still no taxi. Were they stuck in traffic? A phonecall to the chaperon found no answers, so a call to the school. Training days! All became clear, two more days of holiday for my son, and confused we settled back into holiday mode. Uniform hung up, lunchbox put in fridge and jeans and tshirt became the items to wear again. In the confusion of dates and letters, i'd got it wrong. Thursday was his start day.

So today, a new plan afoot. Washing machine is doing one of the tasks and the cat is out exploring. I'm settling down to try and rest, a flare up of the fibro has made both fatigue and pain worse, and i know i must rest to prevent it worsening. So stitching will on the agenda, i'm determined to finish this, and soon. There has already been some progress and i'm enjoying the design and it's bold colours.

The colours i have changed slightly, using bright Venus threads instead of the pastel-ish Anchor threads listed in the key. I think it's worked quite well and i look forward to hanging up the design, on a wall somewhere.

So a day of confusion, has turned into more quality time with my son, and a chance to relax for a little while longer.

Sunday 30 August 2015

Sunday Thoughts

As you can see, life is relaxed for our cat, and judging by the face when i took this photo, his dreams are full of tasty bites.Right now he's chilling in a box, in a sulk over the amount of ham on offer, or rather not on offer.

We'd had a bit of progress in my son's eating. Today he tried ham, even though his food phobia and the sensory issues, which is part of his autism, cause no end of problems, and i admit it may not seem a big thing, but it is. Totally proud of him, and it means a new food can be added to his small list. Of course the cat expects to be fed the same foods...


To the right is the finished sampler of quilts i'd done. Using some fabric that could have made a bookmark, but i decided to use a hanger that i'd gotten free with a cross stitch magazine some years a go. I'm pleased we how they all work together, but also the fact the show some of the wonderful designs that quilting often use, a story behind each piece. I wish i could patchwork and quilt but it's beyond my skills right now, and with all the crafts i already do, there isn't that much space. The colours are cheerful and when i finally hang it on the wall, i can start the process of finishing an UFO (Un-Finished-Object.)




I started the UFO before we moved and got waylaid by life, and other projects, oh and cardmaking. It's a simple design that is full of colour and i admit it will look wonderful, when i finally finish it.
It's from Woman's Weekly Stitch & Sew magazine that i purchased in October 2012. Plenty of projects for crafters and i know that the other cross stitch designs i will certainly be completing as some point. So tonight my challenge is to get this project further as well as do some catch up on some of the programmes i have recorded. Chasing Monsters being the first to be watched, a man trying to catch fish that are beautiful but quite a challange. I also admit there is a little bit of of the will-he-get-bit-today? thought as i watch each show. So this evening we relax and just enjoy the time together.

Happy Crafting!

Tuesday 25 August 2015

Small kisses

Today i stitch. My pain is so high that anything else is next to impossible. Each movement pure agony as my muscles and joints feel like they are tearing and each movement is slow and painful. Today i had to lay in bed a little longer, and yeah i hate feeling like this, i wanted to go get my son's shoes for school, and sort out a bill too. It'll have to wait til tomorrow, when i hope i can move and walk.

Some people think fibro is in the mind, and that we are making the pain out to be worse than it really is, but i can assure the pain is oh so real, and the fatigue is a living nightmare. The moment we lay down to sleep, we hope for a restful sleep, and for us to wake up cured, but that isn't fibro's way. Our sleep is far from peaceful and the pain is always with us when we move those first moments when we decide to get up. Our battle with sleep lost and we continue on with another tiring day.

So today i am looking after me . A day of chilling and quick meals. Lunch was crackers, cheese and fruit,
and dinner will be soup and crusty bread, one of those part baked baguettes thrown in as the soup warms. And today i am stitching. My little stitches working their magic in taking my mind away briefly from the dullness of the day outside. My son watches and plays, his Minecraft world taking shape as his imagination works overtime. My son likes chillout days, he understands that i go through a lot of pain sometimes, but i will always do the best i can for him. I'm thankful he is so patient, it can't be easy for him to see me moving slow due to pain.

So today, small kisses form into patterns, quilt designs but in stitches. I'm working on a small hanging, following the designs so carefully and working the kisses slowly in their various colours. I've tried patchwork and know to do real quilts is a talent i am not practiced in, and i admire those who can make such stunningly beautiful designs using fabric that has sometimes be in their homes for a longtime, awaiting the moment when it inspired something so beautiful.

So off i go, to work some more stitches and hope tomorrow the sun will shine. Tomorrow i hope the fibro will be a little kind.

Happy Crafting!

Book i am working from :- Country-Cross-Stitch-Two-Hour-Crafts


Sunday 23 August 2015

Whoosh!

Bournemouth Airshow 2015. A view from our spot, and the booms of the beach assault could be heard. We couldn't see the tank on the beach, or the Royal Marine Commandos doing their stuff, but from the speakers a great story was told by the commentator.

The weather was very hot, and with suncream on, and water bottles at the ready, we settled for the show. Around us were many more families, awaiting the show to start in the skies. The Sea Vixen opening the display with an almighty whoosh.

It's twin tail boom makes this plane so distinctive and it's roar through the sky is still a wonderful, goose-bumping causing moment, still able to do amazing speeds, even at it's ripe age, but it still has the power to make any person smile like a child, delighting at the whole experience of seeing this plane fly.


Sorry the pictures aren't closer, but with so many around, and the action so fast, i'll be honest, i was lucky to get the shots i did.

When we got home, it was quite a lot of heads, clouds, or sun-glare. Some of them, may be spot the plane but for us, these pictures are memories of a day we will never forget. A day when both my son and me had to get over both our fears of people, each of us being brave for the other.

After the Sea Vixen was the RAF Black Cats Helicopters , a stunning display which the crowd were delighted to watch. Two very skilled pilots did things with amazing "stunts" and maneuvers, some of which they use in combat.


Next were the favourites for so many, The Red Arrows . A firm favourite and they didn't disappoint. Hearing Red 1 give command before each maneuver was an added delight. It just showed how hard this talented pilots worked to get the show right.

By now we'd moved from our first spot, and were entering much more crowded places. Families and friends together, enjoying the sun and the show above. As well as the usual commentary, were the facts of how they made the smoke change colour, and which of the pilots were the new guys.

Next were the Matadors, a display team i freely admit we missed, due to making our way down to Bournemouth Pier, but sadly their display was cut short to allow the Air Ambulance entry after a small boy was injured falling out a tree. Hope he recovers soon.

Next was the Chinnock helicopter display. 12 Tonne of helicopter in angles that amazed. As you can see from the picture the crowds were a lot more, masses enjoying the weather and show. The Chinnock makes an amazing double throb in the air, it's blades cutting the air as it moved from angle to angle, and knowing these amazing craft are still very much in use for military purposes, you can see why these pilots are so skilled.

After this was the Sally B a 1940's Flying Fortress.  She is a wonderful plane , a long gone era, still much remembered. I managed to get a couple of shots, not perfect but a great memory.

After the 40's plane came the surprise, the Avro Vulcan . A surprise visit as it passed from one air display to another, Bournemouth between the two. So many people delighted to see this most beautiful plane.


Next was the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight , a Spitfire, a Hurricane and a Dakota  . Planes from the 40's again delighted everyone, be they young or old. The fact we had spoken earlier to the ground crew who repairs and maintains the Spitfire was an added delight.  My son even got a badge for saying the Spitfire was his second favourite, first being the Red Arrows. ( I just enjoyed the eye-candy, lol)

We had reached our limit, both heat, crowds and tiredness finally took a toll and with sadness but delighted hearts we headed for the bus stop. A long slow journey home due to the volume of traffic, all having the same idea, as well many more still trying to get the the remainder of the air show. I'd wanted to see the Eurofighter Typhoon but exhaustion took over. Luck would have it on the way home we saw the Mig 15, and then the Typhoon flew straight over our home, not once, but 3 times. I was delighted.

A day of memories and today we relax, too tired to go again, and so happy with the day we'd had.

Note: It wasn't until we got home we heard about the terrible loss of life at Shoreham Airshow. Our thoughts are with those injured and killed and their families.



Monday 17 August 2015

Tough times

Today saw my beloved gran. At the age of 95 she is not in the best of health, but she is still a lady i owe so much to, but also wish i could see more often. Due to her age, any illness can cause her no end of problems, serious sometimes. She is losing her sight and her hearing, but also has become very frail and thin. But she still has eyes full of love, beautiful eyes that have always been a comfort to me.

But today i also found at something that tore my heart in two. My newly engaged brother, moved his girlfriend in to where he lives, with my mother. A room that was once my dad's office stripped so my brother could have more room, but i was told nothing of the girlfriend moving in. I feel like i have been slapped in the face, and stabbed through the heart. The final betrayal and one that has finally pointed out that i am not wanted in that family. My gran being the only one who cares, so today i have made the decision to never ever visit my childhood home again, and leave them to their choices. My gran will be the only person i will talk too, though my aunt and her family have done nothing, i know they will pick my mum's and brother's side, so that kind of ends that.

Yes i hurt, more than any words i can type, but with my son and my other half, i know some people still love me, and i'm no longer sure where i stand with my friends, i seemed to have been left by some of them. A breakdown forcing me off facebook, and leaving that behind. I admit i'm lonely, but can no longer cope with the stress that facebook caused or the trying to keep up with people whilst they ignore me.

So tough times are facing us, and i'm trying to keep going, even when inside i'm ready to quit, and tea, and crafting will keep me going for my son, and other half.  And my love for them will get me through this final rejection.

Tuesday 4 August 2015

Morning ideas vs morning tasks

An early start and already mind is a whirl with thoughts and ideas, along with the fact i can't over-do it today. Well that's the theory!

Yesterday a soup of two punnets of small tomatoes, 1 red pepper, two onions chopped, half a tame red chilli, finely sliced and two teaspoons of chopped garlic ( you know the lazy stuff already diced and in jars ) and a few leaves of basil, torn all placed in a saucepan with some olive oil in the base. High heat first , to get it bubbling ,and then left to simmer on a low heat until the tomatoes soften enough to lose their shape. Stir from time to time, just to help the process along. Once the tomatoes have softened, take off the heat and when a little cooler, blitz with your handheld blender till rich and smooth. Taste and then season with a little sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Serve with crusty bread. Mmm delicious! Of course, there is enough left for today, so that's sorted out one thing on the list as done.

But still there is washing to be done, then hung on the line to dry, before sorting out the craftbits that have slightly taken root on the kitchen table. At least there is some space still to eat on, but, with the risk of getting carried away with crafting ideas whilst eating, maybe i ought to sort it out. I also need to cut some papers too, for iris folding. Not sure which design i'm going to do, but cross that bridge when i come to it.

I'd also like to figure out the way to get enough duck tape in various patterns, without breaking the piggy banks. I've found they have become so useful in turning catfood boxes into storage for the crafting stuff, and though not very strong, they are certainly helping a lot in the containing various papers, card blanks and toppers and wooden dies that have found a home here. At £3 a roll, duck tape isn't cheap, but they are so durable and the designs are wonderfully colourful and bright. Making the covering a little easier, and slightly reinforcing the boxes. It all helps and then maybe i might just manage to sort out my crafting areas.

Time to start the day, and it's tasks.

Monday 3 August 2015

School holidays and crafting

My son broke up and finished school just a little over 3 weeks ago. His last day at this school involved an assembly to warm and melt the hearts of each parent there. The proud moment when my son's name was read out for being awarded a merit due to his progress in maths and for his continued excellent behaviour and impeccable manners. Not every boy makes sure ladies first! After a brief moment speaking to his head and i was away, out of the crowded room and heading home to tissues and sweet tea.

And now on this holiday before the big school starts some crafting has been done, some timeout watching videos and dvd's but also the odd outing into the world. One was to see Humboldt Penguins in their new home at Bournemouth Oceanarium . A refit had altered the layout but also made room for these adorable birds. Their home a mixture of cave like hideaways  and a lovely pool to swim in and look at the all the humans looking at them. A play area and cafe close by to enjoy these little birds in their element. So graceful in the water, whilst on land they waddle happily along, the odd shake of the head before returning to the cool water.

This adventure also included an art exhibit and an aviary. The budgies and lovebirds so cheerful and colourful, whilst the parrots slept high on their perches and quails running around the floors , hunting for those seeds that drop, but also trying to draw our attention to them, away from the brightly coloured birds above. The zebra finches dart around, their various cheeps and chirps sounding cheerful and bright. This avairy has been here since i can remember, a place that as a child i was taken, the joy still the same as i now show my child the beauty of these birds.

An art exhibit was close by, local artists showing and selling their wears. Beautiful pictures using various styles and techniques and materials. Some photos, some abstract and  some stunning landscapes, all were a joy to see and i admit i was tempted to far too many of them, but alas money in my purse would not have been enough for them, and through the prices may seem high to some, the prices of art materials is never cheap in the first place, but the time and talent of each artist is also must be taken into account, and trust me these pictures would have been worth every penny and pound.

So now to home, to our place of creating, where stacks of vellum await ideas and where Fun Fair by Helz Cuppleditch awaits ideas and for me to stamp the images , before raiding the water colour pencils to brighten each design. Also where gems have large cases, full of the sparkle and a rainbow of colours, which will brighten any card they are used on, and ribbon overflowing from baskets, each one a different design or thickness or pattern. Crafting in this house is visible everywhere and  a highlight of everyday is the chance to create, to 'play' at being an artist, and these summer holidays have given us chance to explore out creative minds, together.

Happy Crafting

Tuesday 14 July 2015

Fighting Dinosaurs

A new toy, well new to me... is a Quickutz portable die cutter. Small enough to fit in your handbag, but certainly heavy! With this new toy, i've been using the many Quickutz dies i have collected, including two dinosaur ones.This die cutter maybe second hand, but i'm giving it a new life, and in the process, i'm working new ideas to try, for both cards and toppers for future cards.

It's also taking my mind off the pain of Fibro with a flare up after getting sunburnt on Thursday last week..
I admit i'm still feeling the effects after forgetting sun cream, something i won't do again! But seeing my son do his last sports day, at his current school, was worth every moment. His smile when he saw me was something i will never forget. Him and his class mates did really well, and i'm proud of how well he did his best, when it was such a hot afternoon, and it was lovely to bring him home, his excitement still bubbling around in his system and his smile was with him for the rest of the day.

And so today, my challenge will be get the place hoovered, even though i should be resting, but after die cutting dinosaurs, confetti is covering parts of the floor. Sprinkles of red, blue and green as well some browns and purples over blue carpet, so pretty but so messy.

And the dinosaur cards are done, ready for someone, who ever that maybe, and my son says this one looks as though he is chasing his tail. A googly eye adds to the fun of this card . Lets face it, so many kids, and adults, love dinosaurs, and watching Jurassic Park is often the case here. ( Yes we are excited about the new movie. No we haven't seen it yet.) But I have enjoyed making these, a scene from a time gone, but something which i hope will bring a smile.

And so with dinosaur cards done, and die cutting finished, it's time for the housework to be done. Painkillers loaded in and the cat hiding., it's time the hoovering started.

Hope you have good days, and get some crafting time.

Sunday 5 July 2015

Summer

Outside the sky is clear and blue, that bright blue, that is so bright and cheerful. The odd line of clouds far away is noticeable, but even they are white wisps. The air warm in the shade, baking in the open and as i type the fan is on full blast. The ice in my water is slowly melting but it's coolness is a relief on my parched lips and dry throat. Summer is here.

Today has been a slow day, except maybe when the cat escaped his curfew, leaping over the fence before i had a chance to blink. His moment of freedom was taken and his return was much waited for. The rest of the day he has rested and eaten some fish, gently boiled and cooled before offering to the lil guy. My son and myself have eaten cold foods, some egg salad for me, and my son his usual favourite, dunkers with some soft cheese. An ice cream followed for each of us. Not even a hint of a cup of tea for me, it really is too warm for that.

Spoken to a dear friend today, her Saturday experience making her sparkle with happiness, though the pain and swollen ankles were her reward for enjoying herself. But she sounded so happy, as though she had, had the time of her life, with friends, listening to music from the good ol' 80's. When music was so varied and oh so good! Tunes that even today show the time as it was, a mixture of talent, and the odd not so talented, but where experiments were tried, and sometimes worked! Other times, we just forget those bad ones, unless they get blasted from a radio show, the tune haunting us for days as it rattles around in our heads, our lips betraying us and singing those oh so fatal words...

But summer of the 80's i was just a child, a girl into Toyah and Don Johnson. I was also into Sindy dolls and her many clothes, some handmade by my mother, and those cute little care bears with their caring smile. Followed later by My Little Pony and Barbie. Such a long time ago, and a very different time. Some of those days i miss, but not all.

So today crafting has been done, some googly eyes added to die cut frogs, toppers for a card when i get so inspired, and dresses having bows added, and the 6 teachers cards that i needed to finish. Now i plan to put my feet up, and just watch some Sam Neill talking about Space in his calm way, my son next to me enjoying every word. Summers here.

Saturday 4 July 2015

A cat, a vet and whole heatwave of trouble.

Oh lil guy has been fighting this week, not other cats, but something that hit him hard and made him very poorly. What was thought as a reaction to a tick bite, turned into something a lil more serious. Heatstroke. He'd become seriously dehydrated after both a vomiting bug, and the fact his appetite had left him totally. At the same time, the hottest day so far, his poor body couldn't take much more. An urgent dash to the PDSA vets and an overnighter on a drip the only answer, along with tests and serious tlc, along with anti nausea meds.

Of course as his owners both my son and i were very scared, we knew he is was very poorly, and the outcome was uncertain. Our lil guy may drive us mad sometimes but he is much loved and so part of this little family, it seemed an empty house without him.

So as we settled to a cat-less night, the heat continued , a very muggy night where even fans blew warm air and ice melted far quicker than was helpful, we settle down for the night, before being woken by the most spectacular thunderstorm i think we'd ever seen, or heard! The lightening was flashing on/off/on/off  so quickly that it was impossible to count between them and the rumbles of thunder that echoed around us. My son very scared, hugging to me, hoping i could take the big bangs away and make the lightening stop. Even myself, not the biggest fan of these storms, was uncertain as to quite what was above our heads, the brightness of each flash was beyond anything i'd seen in a very long time, and the noise was certainly enough to make most people jump. And through all of this, we were hoping our lil guy was ok, that he was resting and not too scared.

That storm passed, and the morning was fresher than it had been in a while, and thoughts turned to finding out how our little guy was. The phonecall to tell us the news, the outcome. To our delight, the news was good, near the middle of the day, we could bring him home, with medicine and the 4 days inside rule. Seeing him in that basket, that first meow as he saw me, it melts the heart, and we were so glad to see his loving face, the meow of happiness, the meows of what had happened, and the meows of don't leave me again.
And now at home, he rests, curled up, dreaming of chicken or tuna, his bland only diet to be his choice for the next few days and we smile knowing our family is together again.

Monday 29 June 2015

Infections and crafting.

A throat infection has knocked me off my feet. The pain causing so many issues, a long with the fact Saturday i had to see the emergency out of hours doctor due to the pain and infection getting much worse. That will have to be sorted with a phonecall to my gp's today. I'm still in a lot of pain, but the infection is slowly getting better.

But with the need to rest, comes an excuse to little amounts of crafting, and of course, reading craft magazines. Vintage images from Printableheaven and Thegraphicsfairy have come into play, along with printing various backgrounds on to A5 sized card to be used at a later date. 3x3 inch squares have been printed with floral designs for use with watercolour pencils to be used as toppers, and vintage ladies will become toppers with the right amount of embellishments making the final pieces of the puzzle.

Along with each topper an idea will form, something small to be worked around to make the final design, and hopefully bring a smile to someone's face when they finally receive their card. At the same time, i'm enjoying the making of something small, and i'm beginning to see the appeal of ATC (Artist Trading Cards) sized works of art. When working smaller designs it's almost like the challenge of showing how much you can create in a smaller area, your ideas contained in someways, but the chance to test out new ideas and maybe push boundaries of how much you can fit in the that small space. This something i will certainly exploring.

The card i'm showing here was a topper experiment, the detailed scissors adding something extra, along with a small bow hiding behind the single flower. But the focal point remains the lady sat in her chair, the words mother gracefully written above.

So today i will explore crafting, whilst i rest between washing loads. Happy Crafting, when ever you get the chance.

Monday 8 June 2015

Creating

It's been a little while since i last posted. Life has gotten in the way of things, with my depression taking the joy out of many things, including my beloved crafting. My son and the cat have become even more important, and phonecalls also have become more of a godsend. In speaking to both friends, and the crisis team i'm still soldiering on, like a tough ol' bird should.

As i type today, i'm moments from tears, if the flood gates fail, but i'm also near the computer, meant to be hunting for that allusive recipe that is currently on my mind. Rocket and potato soup is something i really fancy trying, i even have all the ingredients, but is there a version done in a slow-cooker? A 1.5 litre slow-cooker to be precise. As yet i haven't found one, but i figure, if i can't find one, well just maybe, i will create my own. My first go using the slow cooker went well, so who knows, maybe i'll figure this all out. I'll let you know.

I have also been busy using off cuts of printed patterned card, bits that the printer faded on colour half way through, not perfect to use as a background, but with a flower punch, some sticky fixers and some Candi, small flowers have been made. Of course, some would say, if the printing failed, why keep it. Sometimes accidents lead on to other ideas, and patterned flowers seemed like a better idea, than throwing the card into the recycling bin. Each one is unique but still pretty and though i can't show you the patterns close up, i think they have worked really well.

These flowers are pink and white check, but placed on layers scalloped circles, an idea is forming, and finding the image for the centre circle will be taken with care. Oh and the added sentiment of course, whatever this will be used to create.

The original patterns are from CraftsUPrint. Various backgrounds from various talent people, and used in a manner i don't expect they thought of. Check flowers indeed! No amount of scientists or experimenting is going to create a real one, any day soon!

But in a way that is the whole idea of crafting, to create something different, expressing your ideas, your thoughts, and hopefully brightening someone's day. Which brings me back to that allusive slow-cooker recipe. Guess creating will be happening soon, in our kitchen.

Happy Crafting, whatever you create.

Monday 1 June 2015

Experiment with my new toy.

A Breville 1.5l slow-cooker. It is currently sitting in the kitchen with a pork casserole mix, but no pork. I've decided to use soya chunks instead. Carrots, onions and some green pepper added to the mix, and i've left it on auto. In theory that means in 7-8 hours time, it should be all nicely cooked and dinner will have been sorted. Fingers crossed it all goes to plan.

So with that on, i have some time to craft with my son, then i have to quickly hoover to make sure no small crafty bits become part of the carpet, and then some stitching whilst my son's buddy from Wessex Autism is here. My son has decided Big Hero 6 will be the film to watch, whilst playing whatever board games he decides. He enjoys his Monday's because of the buddy scheme and it gives me a little break. And seeing as last week i'd had to cancel due to my son's high temperature and viral infection, so today will be extra special. I'm sure he has plenty to talk about.

I'll also be thinking of a friend today. She's doing an exam which is going to take 5 hours to complete. Certainly a task and a half, and i wish her well with it.

Anyway, sorry it's a short post today, but my son is eager to craft.

Happy Crafting!

Thursday 28 May 2015

Copying Creation

Yesterday the latest from Mollie Makes popped through my door. Bedtime reading sorted. Geometric shapes used on a necklace, leather used to make bracelets, a free kit of a crochet dream catcher, and a knitting pattern for a cactus cushion being some of the favourites, but also a crochet hot-dog eye patch and others that for now escape my mind. I read from cover to cover, devouring all the ideas and info as well as wishing i could both crochet and knit! Garter stitch isn't going to make the grade if i want to make a cactus cushion!

But an article that was so interesting was the one regarding selling online and the issue of being accused of copying someone's ideas. With Pinterest, Facebook, Etsy and all manner of other sites which have crafts sellers showing their wares, i'm sure that it's very easy to see what appear to be repeated designs, from various corners of the world, but sometimes it is pure chance that an idea matches someone else's. All crafters know that a person's design has taken work to complete, and time to make the design work, even a pattern takes a lot of trial and error to make the design work.

Now i buy patterns off Etsy, mostly cross stitch, but i have been known to buy the odd embroidery design here and there too. I buy them, not to copy, but to make the design, for pure pleasure and sometimes to make for a friend or family member. Same as i read craft magazines, to gain ideas, or make a gift for someone. Selling never crosses my mind, as i know it's some of my work, but the design is all the designers effort and for that reason i'm grateful for all their hard work, that has given me pleasure to make something. However, i also do jewellery making, (when my hands work) and also card making. I have jewellery magazines, and plenty of card-making magazines. Again i don't buy them to copy, i buy to find new ideas, and techniques that i can try and off course the odd freebie that i know will be fun to play with. When i do jewellery i go with what is in my head, what beads jump out at me, and what charms i have in my stash. Colours or occasions inspire too. Right now, kitsch charms and beads are on my mind, bright colours for summer, but also card-making is never far from my mind either, something with a beach theme building in my head as i type, maybe an ice-cream charm will be added to the final card, or a die cut picture will be placed under a dome in a charm tray, who knows. Today my creative juices are flowing, but only time will tell what is made, but i know i won't be copying, half the fun is the design process, and to copy, you just don't get that buzz from making something unique.

Happy Crafting, whatever you decide to make.

Tuesday 26 May 2015

Fighting and feeling inspired.

A flu style bug has hit the household, and honey and lemon have become good friends, along with Twinings Defence Tea  . Our beds has become a crafting zone and a writing zone. My son writing Pokemon bits and pieces and i'm reading and cutting out 3D decoupages , saving for another time to make them up. My reading material is everything from card making, papercraft and cross stitch, and now the latest Simply Homemade, with a free embossing and stamping set.

Simply Homemade covers so many different crafts, it always has the power to inspire, and i'm certainly that from reading the first few pages. Weaving anyone? I'm certainly interested in the whole idea of it, and it would be good to use some of my yarns i have stashed for supposed knitted projects, but also the Bear cushion is too cute to ignore! Plus button jewellery and father's day cards, along with the other projects to tease the crafter in all of us. And of course i have fabric in this house, various pieces of all manner of sizes and colours so a quilt is never far from my mind, though i think i don't quite have the sewing machine skills quite what they need to be. Seriously, i need to get my crafting area sorted! I'm eager to explore the crafting part of my mind, and talking mind, yes i'm still fighting demons and dark places, so crafting has certainly become a everyday thing to help.

But right now, tissues and warm/cold drinks take the importance away from crafting, and resting when we can has become important too. Kiddo is on half term at the mo, so it's going give him chance to recoup and recover before facing his final term at this school. He's growing so fast and it will be mum getting her crafting brain on for his final presents for his teachers who have helped him so much, and to a head teacher who runs such a wonderful school. It will be a big change for both of us, with tear shed along the way.

Happy Crafting, where ever you do it.

Thursday 14 May 2015

Vintage Times.

Right now i'm taking a timeout, a breakdown on Friday has left me raw, tearful and fighting a deep depression, so my son and my crafting are my focus. And order from Abel&Cole was a surprise, before 7am and the fruit and veg was so fresh, the smell of the oranges and apples alone a real highlight today. I'm definitely happier with the quality but also saving some money along the way. Another help in this tougher times we are going through. Anyway, crafting..

http://thegraphicsfairy.com/

This site has helped me out many a time. They have the most amazing images for free! But that's not the best bit, the images are. So many treasures from yester-year  and seeing the fashions, be it clothing or home items, it's a haven for those of us who like some of the olden times. The vintage ladies are certainly a favourite for me, but today a wonderful clock face ( public-domain-pocket-watch-image ) has put an idea or two in my head, so i feel i have a small mission today, as well as make homemade potato salad. Will be a steady day, with plenty of rest and some crafting through the day.

I'm currently working with angel-hair paper, it's fine fibres perfect as a background for some of the designs i'm working on. One is a vintage picture of a bunch of tulips. I've printed the picture out twice and cut them both out, but the second one i have removed the background enough to help make the image 3D. I've used deckle scissors around the edge to make a more interesting border, before placing onto of the angel-hair paper. HINT: Do not use deckle edges scissors on angel-hair, you end up with a mess and snagged scissors!

Anyway, the finished topper is now awaiting the right card to go on, i've run out of hammered cream blanks at the mo, so the topper is being kept safe.

The image of the tulips i found looked more vintage when it was printed onto cream textured card, like it had seen the ages slowly. The colours worked really well too. I printed it on the printer set as 4 images per page, but also had the paper being set at A5 size. I made sure it printed 2 of  the image, and you will find they will be the perfect size to use as a topper, without too much wastage too.The image is from The Graphics Fairy. Some more wonderful flowers on the site. Seriously this site is a gold mine for us crafters.

Anyway time for me to sort some bits out so i can have a brief crafting session. Happy Crafting

Friday 8 May 2015

Bitter pill to swallow

This morning we wake to the news that the evilness continues. I am beyond broken inside and the fear of what is ahead can not be put into words. This country will be brought to it's knees and carved up and sold to people already too rich, and i hope those who voted for them, will enjoy watching the nhs being carved up and an american medical service will come to exist. I hope those who voted for them, will enjoy watching men, woman and children being made homeless and to starve. I hope that they can handle the fact they have signed the death warrants of anyone sick, disabled or poor.

Sorry no cheerfulness here, i'm broken beyond words and fearful of what is ahead.

Sunday 3 May 2015

Barriers

More than ever i'm fighting barriers, be they physical or emotional. Today i'm feeling both, the cold dark weather not helping much, plus the fact i've so many pictures i want to share, but no longer feel i can anymore, except on here. This is my area, to write my thoughts and share moments which make me smile, but also to show my moments of creativity, without being made to feel i'm not good enough, or it's become a competition of who is the best.
This is our quiet space today. The rain is battering down and the blossom of the cherry tree falls like pink snow with each hard gust of wind at various times. Believe or not, even on this cold, dank day it's still a beautiful sight and our garden is slowly coming together. Herbs and wild plants are happily taking their places on the back area, and the bird feeder is much loved by the local birds, especially the pigeon you see in the photo. Even on a blustery day he comes for his daily breakfast.

We're planning on more plants and veg being planted, some tomatoes and peppers in grow bags being our veg patch. More herbs and butterfly/bee friendly plants as well as a possible fruit plant/tree in the near future. The idea is to turn this space into an area that i can get used to the open air and space, without being fearful of panic attacks and my other fears whilst in the outside, but also a space to get a dose of vitamin d from time to time.

My other space is a work in progress, a crafting zone to create whatever is in my mind/heart at the time. A place to try and escape the pain, both physical and emotional, that challenges me every day. I admit to being very lonely and online has become a place that i can type my thoughts, but social contact seems very far apart. I tried reaching out but when you call people, and they never call you back, it hurts beyond words. So i'm only ringing people who ring me from time to time. But i've distracted off my topic, the crafting space. I've two storage units which are full of various bits, and another unit which i share with my son, again crafting stuff. There are boxes awaiting sorting which contain various bits, and by the computer desk are containers full of beads, charms and various jewellery findings for when my hands want o work. There is also a cupboard full of crafting goodness. Yes i have a lot, but it fills the life i don't have, and helps ease the fact that i am a single mum who rarily leaves our home due to agrophobia and fibromyaglia. My son of course is wonderful company, but i can't talk to him when things are troubling me, he is only 11 and i want him to enjoy the world safely. I try and make his life happy.

Happy crafting, whomever you do it with

Wednesday 29 April 2015

Soul saver

As i type, this is the view on the sofa, a cat dreaming of who knows what. He is nicely chilled and has been wonderful company whilst my son is at school.

He may not give hugs, but as i stroke his fur, it's someone helping my mind go elsewhere whilst my depression is in full takeover mode. He's 'helped' with my ribbons as i tried to sort out the chaos that is crafting supplies. Later i hope the chaos will be nicely finished and i can start on enjoying some time to make cards.

Card-making has been a savior these last few days. Not really on FB anymore, it's not helping my head right now, so a break i have decided is the best course of action, and concentrating on home is more important. I've been slowly exposing myself to the outside world, by doing small amounts of gardening, nowt heavy, just a prune here, a tidy there and the odd plant being planted.

I've also been trying new things in the cooking area, more fresh veg and fruit to try and remove this extra, i have gained. At the same time i have been dealing with the side effects of medication, not agreeing with me. Cotton wool brains and a bobble head is not good when you are a mum! So the tablets have been put back to the lower does, and i find my head starting to clear in my creating again.

A simple card of elegance, a picture from days long gone, and the statement of love which i hope she got to find and enjoy in her lifetime. She was a beautiful lady when the photo was taken, and i wonder what she saw in her lifetime, how much change, how much happiness?

So now i must depart, chores and sorting need doing, before my young lad comes home.

Happy Crafting, whenever you get the chance

Thursday 23 April 2015

Time out...and change

A break from the normal is what is needed sometimes, and the last few weeks have been tough on the body and soul. My health has hit the stairs in another fall, and right now i'm recovering from cracking a rib whilst fighting fibro and depression. Pain is quite high, and to say i'm dizzy would be an understatement. As i sit here and type the world is spinning quite well. Thank goodness for gravity!


Our garden is a delight , the cherry tree in full bloom and from my pink themed bedroom, the view of this tree is a daily delight, especially first thing in the morning, when the only sound is birdsong and the odd car passing by.

Today i have been resting, but also crafting. Punching out flowers and then making little blooms for future cards. I guess the spring feel to everything is coming into my crafting too. It's been lovely to see the sun, and the bite there was in the air is starting to slowly move away. Even the cat is liking outside so much more now, and right now, his main resting area is in the herbs that get the sun in the afternoon. Sadly the greek oregano has become his bed for reasons only a cat would understand, and i'm hoping that the twigs i have put around it will save it's fate and a summer of herbs will be well ahead of us. Nothing like a greek salad with fresh herbs and some crumbly feta on a summers evening.

And talking salad, we've made a change in this house, and now buy our fruit and veg from a company called Abel & Cole. All the items are organic and only what is in season is delivered. You can choose a box for your household size, but also decide whether certain veg that you really can't palate, will not be included. No artichokes here! We have been really enjoying the surprise of opening the box and seeing what is on the menu this week. Purple sprouting broccoli anyone? Have to say it's lovely and fresh and oh so tasty! I feel it's a good change and with the fact that fruit and veg from the main supermarkets seems to have such a short life once you bring it home, i felt the change was needed. Not disappointed so far.

Now it's time for me to rest myself some more, the evening drawing to a close and bed is calling, though sleep will be sometime away.

Happy crafting, even if it's in your dreams

Thursday 2 April 2015

Just a card.

As a reader and crafter, the Mollie Makes magazine has opened my eyes to other crafters, whose livelihood depends on people buying their art and creations. I'm a big fan of Etsy too. There are some very talented people out there who create beauty in so many forms, each one made with love.



So the  Just A Card campaign is something i feel passionate about. Too many big firms have started to add their "handmade" style in their products, which is taking people away from the smaller businesses which depend on every single sale they make. Both my parents had their own businesses, and to this day, my mum is still doing hers. Imagine a day where you just made enough to pay the rent for your stall, but haven't made enough to cover the fuel to get there, and no extras for every day things.It's a tough life, and getting harder into today's climate.I have often been told my makes are good enough, it's my mental health which is making me fear the thought, that maybe, just maybe they are something people might want. I admit i have no confidence even though each project i do, is filled with love, and the urge to create something so beautiful. Yes i enjoy crafting, but for me it is so much more, it's a chance to forget the pain for a little while, it's a chance to take my minds of the bad thoughts that linger in my head on a daily basis. A chance to forget the fear of the outside world, and just create.

Happy Crafting , whether it's for yourself, a love one or to sell.





Just a Card Blog Button HTML
Just a Card Button

Tuesday 31 March 2015

Subconscious Crafting

For the past few weeks my card making has been weddings. Why? I haven't had a wedding invite, i know of 3 couples getting married, but not anytime soon. My relationship isn't heading down any aisle and right now, i have no clue why i'm making these cards.

The fact that i am seeing wedding everything at the moment though, makes me wonder, is my subconscious saying something? Something i'm hiding inside, something which hurts, so i'm trying to bury it, but it's coming out in little bursts, especially in my crafts. The time when i am trying to focus on something which doesn't hurt.

But in making these cards, am i pointing to something i would like to happen, or is it regrets that it is unlikely to happen again? That part i don't know but this, whatever it is, is showing no signs of hiding quietly.


I have made other cards a long the way, floral seeming to be a theme, but right now, most of my cards are wedding, and i guess i have to go along with that, till whatever is going on, heals.

Whatever you do today, enjoy, and happy crafting!

Thursday 12 March 2015

Retro freebie from Far Far Hill

 
Aren't these fabulous? They are a freebie from the very talented Far Far Hill blog site. Leave a comment on their site if you download this awesome freebie.

Now i'm a big fan of retro pin ups, a time when a hint of naughtiness had major appeal, without the whole stripped off bit.These will certainly come in usual for a project i plan to do in my bedroom, when i finally get it sorted! I have a few photos of vintage ladies in various costumes that are a throw back of days gone past, and they certainly had some glamour in those days.

And talking glamour i have a date my wardrobe, time to get dressed, i can't  be in pj's all day, much as i would like. Happy Crafting!

Wednesday 11 March 2015

Catnip and craftbits

Our cat, Bubbles, charging around with the catnip tub and the rug being sent into disarray and our morning starts with fun and laughter.

Today i hurt, and fatigue more than usual, but a day of crafting awaits, a chance to rest between chores, and of course the food delivery, that i've had to bring forward a day due to kid and cat supplies running low. If kid and cat would eat normal food, like what i have enough of, it would be so much easier, but hey ho, these challenges are sent to try us.

Yesterday was my pip assessment , a challenge beyond words, and the amazing mental health advocate came with me. the questions were hard, talking how an illness effects you aren't easy when most days you try to put how you feel, at the back of your mind, but yesterday bringing up everything was hard, and as for the memory and maths questions, well, i have no idea what was asked, except cat was an answer, i only know this, because i thought of our cat, the cute lovely furry who brightens our day.

And now my mind forgets yesterday, something that is now out of my hands and in the hands of whoever decides my fate , my minds turns to crafting, something to do whilst i recover my strength and rest through the pain, my fatigue present throughout it all, and the cat, well he will i'm sure help with the craftbits, ribbons are of course plaything, to be chased, pulled and nicked.

So now i'm going to read the latest Crosssticher magazine that arrived through my door , and drink my second cuppa of the day. Happy Crafting!

Tuesday 10 March 2015

A lot on the mind

I have a box, a box with Styrofoam shapes, and ribbon and sequins, hundreds of sequins in fact. Straight dress pins are in the bottom too. So i guess, crafting in this home is taking a different turn. I'm thinking of trying these :- homemadesequineggs

I'm sure i can do this, though today may not be the best day to start something this complex. But crafting will be used today to help get through what will be a tough day. My pain and severe tiredness is taking a toll on my balance today, stress from the up coming assessment late in the afternoon, plus the lack of sleep due to a great many nightmares, means i look like a panda. Oh well, at least pandas are cuddly.

This is did yesterday, a card for easter, and finally a use for the cute buttons i had. Each bunny button is holding a mulberry flower to hid the holes, and the egg background is from CraftsUPrint, and the ribbons are from my ribbon basket, which is overflowing with goodness.

Other easters have been made too, by my son and myself, they are just awaiting the envelopes and to be posted, something that i feel maybe a little expensive, since the stamps price has risen again, but every penny will be worth it, a chance to make people smile when they open their mail.

I'm sorry this is a short post, but as i said i'm not on full form today.
Take care and happy crafting!

Monday 2 March 2015

Paper crafting in 3D

So Craft Creations, you know i like them, right? Because currently i am working on some of their designs that are in their bargain area. These are the first 3 finished and all that is needed is some box frames and they will be sorted, but first i have to do two more.

The two sheets below are for the final two designs. Each picture is cut out, depending on which seems to be the background, slowly being removed, till the front facing items, stand out. I'm not explaining very well, but i'll be honest i'm not quite sure how to explain it. Sticky fixers help with each layer too.

Tiny sharp scissors, a lot of patience and slow cutting will all in the end go into each design, and the effect is worth all the time spent on them. As for whether these are toadstools or mushroom, i have no idea, i'm not that up on my fungi.

But at 5p a sheet, yes i did say 5p! They are too good a bargain to leave, and of course, being craft minded, i'm sure you will find the site will have many more delights for your stash, after all we all have them.


The next 3 designs are again from Craft Creations, and these are for our landing, which has a whole nautical theme going on. Again 3D decoupage, using careful cuts, and sticky fixers to mount each layer. The effect is certainly awe inspiring, if i do say so myself. But my son loves them, even though the shark may be a lil scary.

I'm thinking of trying to find a box frame for all three, so that the impact isn't lessened by multi frames.. I haven't decied on the fungi yet. Going to see when i finish them all.

I know one thing, i'm made amess with tiny confetti everywhere, but it's helped me take my mind of the fact i still feel way off colour with my throat and ears, but with the sun out, i feel spring is round the corner and i'm aiming to get back on track with sorting out this house of chaos. Untill then, i'm on the rest order from the doctor, and i must obey of course.

Happy Crafting all!

Friday 27 February 2015

Birthdays and bunnies

A sore throat got out of hand, and i was knocked off my feet, literally in the two falls i had. I'm on the mend but have a lowly bruise on my behind and an arm, but no serious damage. Whilst croaking i managed to make a card for my other half, to be posted urgently by someone who was able to get to the post office for me.

Now the theme had to be Movies/Hollywood.  His is very into the latest films, the old films, the tv shows that spin off from films and vice versa. He is to the large blockbusters, but can spot a turkey of film quickly. In his words, if the popcorns gone and he ready to sleep, he's outta there. Catwoman is a turkey he is ready to Frisbee out of a window, if ever i am daft enough to put it on when he visits. Yeah i know, but i like the film, sod the facts that there are mistakes galore and a story line that is erm, well not as the comics?

But i've gone off on a tangent. He likes films, so i had found some background printable off CraftsUPrint, and i had some blue holographic card i had found somewhere, the name escapes me right now. Anyhow, the two together shouts glitz and glamour, but now all i needed was the filmstrip. Saved by Hobbycraft! A clear stamp was just the right thing, and with each stamp being done, there was a change, just like a old filmstrip, it's edges not quite crisp, but there enough to give the right look. I took some of the pictures in the background and cut them carefully out. All were place on to the dry filmstrip and then mounted on some of the holographic card. Next was to add the greeting, purchased from Craft Creations, the glitter peel offs added the right amount of bling, that seems to be at every Oscar event. All in all a very Hollywood card.

And now to bunnies. I have fallen in love with this super cute idea from Craft Ideas Now my son has stones, lots of them. And if i can persuade him, i might just be able to decorate some with him. That is if i can find some super cute bunnies. I have a few, it's just are they in a box, or somewhere else. Now PVA glue i know we always have, what crafter doesn't, and rather than buy some special glue for decoupaging, i just used slightly watered down PVA. As it dries it hardens to a nice finish, and extra coats should help protect it. Make sure to do the layers after each has fully dried though... else your image will possibly move, tear or distort, or all three. Not the look we really want.

So i'm off hunting bunnies. Have a good day. Happy Crafting!

Saturday 21 February 2015

Ouches and dark days

Sorry it's been a while. Depression and fibro took their toll. The picture is the valentine card i did for my other half. It arrived safely via the royal mail and he was very happy. The design is from Craft Creations and scissors, patience and sticky fixers all went into making the card, and ribbon added the final extra. I had wanted to use heart ribbon, but it had gone walkabout. Oh well, spots worked just as well. Happily the bear is just right, he is so lovely to cuddle up too, and though sadly he couldn't be down, he was thought of often.

As of course was my dad, 14th Feb being the first anniversary of his death. It wasn't the easiest of days, but my son and i got through it, and spoke to him via the stars. We still miss him a great deal, and he is often in our thoughts, even after a year of being gone.



 The first card i've made for a while was a romantic/fairy scene. A swing with fairies playing near by. The design was off CraftsUPrint and the flowers were paper ones i'd brought on ebay. A few Candi centres and the effect is magical. This is one card i am keeping, i love it too much to part with it.
I guess sometimes we fall in love with our creations.

The scond card, pictured below, was for a friends husband. He love his F1 so this design was perfect, i hope!. The holographic card was brought in Home Bargains a little while a go, and the die cut car was purchased of ebay, in a bumper pack of transport.
The peel offs are from Craft Creations, and the final touch of Candis was the completed design. Sadly due to various problems, namely agrophobia and fibro it was posted late, for that i feel guilty and a little bit of a failure, but i hope the card made him smile.

In other crafting news, i have recently given up a box, which till a couple of days ago, held some of my papercraft bits. It now holds my son's crafting bits, for cardmaking. Yes, he has followed one of my hobbies and is turning into quite a little artist. It makes me proud when i see him thinking about what to create and who it is for. He certainly has a talent.

Time to sign off again, my son is wanting to look up Pokemon bits, something i don't mind, and of course i can use the time offline to stitch. I'm currently working on a small design by Donna Kooler.
Happy Crafting!