A smile a day

Note to Self

2012-01-09T05:27:00.000-08:00

He is not worried that we are late making it, that Christmas has been and gone and a New Year has started.
That Mama's words "not today" "maybe later" "not now" have finally ended.
He is just delighted that we have made it.
And that he got to eat some ( just a little some )

Saturday, a great day for feeding the ducks

2012-01-07T07:35:00.001-08:00

This Moment - One Boy and his Dog

2012-01-06T01:20:00.001-08:00

Joining Soule Mama, in this weekly project of remembering, the ordinary, beautiful moments in our days, that could so easily be missed if our eyes and hearts are not opened to see them.

Awakening

2012-01-05T02:09:00.000-08:00

With memories of festive lie ins, still so fresh

Rain and wind pounding the house

It is so hard to leave this

warm, cosy nest.

Up and bed made

cheery quilt brings smiles

and much needed colour

on such a dark, damp day.

Peeking out the window

a sodden World awaits

bare trees swaying

to the rhythm

of the wind.

The boys bed holds his treasures

and Mamas heart delights

that handmade Nemo

peeks out.

And coffee in a dotty mug

bright splash of happiness

enough to lift the spirits.

Good Morning x

Yarn Along 6 - New Starts

2012-01-04T03:06:00.000-08:00

I did lots of sitting down over the holidays, all those films to watch, peaceful afternoons and evenings but yet manged to do little knitting, if any.Maybe it was the frantic present knitting catching up on me.

The few projects I did start, have now been pulled down, yarn rewound.

New Year, New Starts.

And, so I cast back on the first project rewound, a winter cowl for my boy, yesterday and it felt good.

Pattern from Amanda Blake Soule's Rhythm of the Family, which I am also reading along with an old James Herriot,Let sleeping vets lie, kindly borrowed from a dear friend, it makes for a peaceful bedtime read.

Afew rows in and all is well again in my Yarning World.

Come, Yarn Along at Ginny's http://www.gsheller.com/

Always look on the bright side of life

2012-01-03T03:53:00.001-08:00

It is pouring down here and the wind is sending anything not nailed down, swirling off to Kansas.
So, as we head out the door, O tops his wet weather gear off with sunnies.
There's a lesson there.

Cheese Scones save the day

2012-01-02T12:05:00.001-08:00

I did very little fancy cooking this Christmas ( read I did none ) just the way things turned out this year, something had to give and it turned out to be the homemade cheesecakes, mince pies ( although the mincemeat is still sat, crying out to be used ) and other delights of the season.
The one thing I did make though and which, thankfully were a big hit, cheese and broccoli scones, a simple treat, which suited us this year.We enjoyed them with soup ( butternut squash, homemade ) and even with leftover chilli.

Cheese and Broccoli Scones

450g self raising flour, rub in around 100g butter until breadcrumbs form.
Add 100g cooked, chopped broccoli and 50g cheese, I used a mix of cheddar and Stilton.
Stir in 2 eggs and add milk slowly until a dough is formed, around 75mls.
Gently press out on floured surface, I don't roll out, leaving dough quite thick.
Use a biscuit cutter or as I did one for ravioli.
Bake in the oven for approx 20 mins on 180 ( mine took 40 mins in the Rayburn, so please adapt to your oven)
The smell is so worth cooking them for, filling the kitchen and making you believe your domestic Goddess hasn't been completely lost, she is merely having a rest on the chaise.

Happy New One

2012-01-01T09:29:00.001-08:00

Times, they are so busy.

2011-12-13T07:49:00.000-08:00

There has been some crafting,

golden stars to brighten our windows.

Visits to garden centres, packed with shoppers

and twinkling lights,

and glorious reindeer dancing down from the skies,

An evening with Kate Rusby, singing beautiful songs of Yule Time.

A lovely trip to Norfolk, such a treat, to spend time with special friends

and breakfast with Thomas.

Rides in trucks at Christmas Markets, going round and round while Daddy watches

and Mama sneaks off to buy some surprises.

And some knitting, always some knitting.

Thinking

2011-12-05T01:28:00.000-08:00

I always plan to spend more time here, writing posts in my head, only to get caught up in the flow of the day, forgetting what I felt the need to say later when time allows or not having my camera with me to take the perfect shot, oh but I do love this space and the connections it brings, the time to share and ponder, learn and grow.
The first snowflakes have just fallen here, followed by sleety rain and now some very weak sunshine.
No plans for the day ahead, as most of us, myself included have coughs and colds, so an early fire and stories with soup for lunch.
Festive shopping is being completed mainly on-line (does anyone brave the shops now ? ) or coming off the needles, although I feel my far too long list of knits has already beaten me ( note to self - start in July next year ) Visits to a couple more craft fayres and Christmas markets will I hope, leave everyones name on my list with a tick beside it.

Inspired by this lovely post http://mamauktalesfromwales.blogspot.com/2011/11/window-star-tutorial.html

we have been adorning our windows with O's creations.

I cried (of course) as our shoe boxes and those generously filled by friends, joined the van full of LOVE,

to begin the journey to boys and girls around the World.

With one thing and another, times have been a little dark here recently, full on family life and all its joys, worries, stresses and strains taking their toll, so I have been mentally taking myself back to a magical night on the Isle of Lewis, watching our lantern as it climbed higher and higher into the night sky, a warm, orange glow in the dark, carrying with it our hopes, wishes and dreams.

Finding comfort in the light within the dark.

Blessings to all.

Celebrating Advent

2011-11-30T08:46:00.000-08:00

With the teenagers in our home, showing a real apathy to the Yule time spirit, matched with a little 4 year old with mounting excitement,I am drawn to this time of advent, hoping a gentle daily mix of stories, crafts, activities and occasional treats, will help lead little O into the holidays with a real sense of time and that little by little some festive magic will soften those cynical teenage hearts.

Mincemeat has been made ( and tasted, hence the huge grin )

Recipe from Family, Festivals and Food.

Not a drop of brandy was to be found in the house, so Cointreau stepped in to save the day.

And a real treat, first ever visit to the cinema, complete with ice cream ( pink of course )

Then home, to a warm fire, glow of candles, jacket potatoes for tea followed by stories.

.........................................

I am using http://naturalfamily.50megs.com/custom2_1.html as a wonderful resource for our celebrating.

Awakening

2011-11-29T01:55:00.000-08:00

Pots of beauty,

ready after a summers slumber

to bloom again.

At the Advent Fayre - Candle Dipping

2011-11-28T02:20:00.000-08:00

ONE LITTLE CANDLE

(George Mysels / J. Maloy Roach)

It's better to light just one little candle

Than to stumble in the dark

Better far that you light just one little candle

All you need's a tiny spark

If we'd all say a prayer that the world would be free

The wonderful dawn on the new day we'll see

And if everyone lit just one little candle

What a bright world this would be

(Let's all light one little candle

Why stumble on in the dark)

When the day is dark and dreary

And your way is hard to find

Don't let your heart be weary

Just keep this thought in mind

(It is better to light just one little candle

Than to stumble in the dark

Better far to light just one little candle

All you need's a tiny spark)

If we'd all say a prayer that the world would be free

The wonderful dawn of the new day we'll see

And if everyone lit just one little candle

What a bright world this would be

Off the needles and into the shoeboxes

2011-11-22T01:57:00.000-08:00

Our home, full of friends.

Teapots, jugs of milk and pots of coffee.

Cake stands stacked high.

China cups and saucers, pretty tablecloths.

Children running in and out,

trees climbed, rabbit stroked,

friendships rediscovered,

cakes devoured.

A pile of shoe boxes, bursting with gifts.

Colourful wrappings,

Bright smiles

LOVE aplenty.

Thank you x

Saying Hello to the Seals

2011-11-20T11:39:00.000-08:00

Always a treat, a family tradition.

A Sunday afternoon in the Autumn with the seals.

Why these Mamas choose to birth on an RAF firing range ( RAF Doona Nook )

is a mystery,

but birth they do, in their hundreds.

Such a sight, a beach full of Mamas, Papas and their babes.

We stand and stare, delight in their beauty.

Admire their size, speed and grandeur.

A picnic in the car ( well it is November )

flasks of coffee, sandwiches and slices of cake.

A fluffy friend to take home and love.

And plenty of smiles.

Seven Days

2011-11-12T03:26:00.000-08:00

This boy of mine, loves sausage rolls, so I thought it about time, he learnt to make them.

Another win !

We are loving our sock monkey ( please ignore my dirty windows ! ) here for some adventuring.

A blog giveaway from http://bwonderyears.blogspot.com/ thank you.

My wonderful view.

Sparkler fun.

Gathering round the fire with friends.

Autumn bouncing.

Lunch time goodness.

Joining Jacqui, with her wonderful Seven Days, sharing our week, days of family, fun and friends.

http://www.thebarefootcrofter.com/ she has a lovely giveaway happening now too.

This Moment - LOVE

2011-11-11T01:27:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Soulemama.
A moment in time to cherish, an ordinary moment, a moment to be remembered.

Yarn Along - 5

2011-11-09T09:11:00.000-08:00

Joining in with Ginny and all those wonderful bloggers who take part in

Yarn Along, sharing a book on the bedside table and a project on the needles,

a perfect combination.

http://www.gsheller.com/2011/11/yarn-along_09.html

In my attempt to tidy, sort and declutter in preparation for the festive season,

I am trying to work my way through Mount Magazine,

great for flicking through with a cuppa and inspiration gathering,

just SO many of them !

On the needles, another Pilot Cap from Little Turtle Knits,

http://www.littleturtleknits.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=189

using yarn from my stash and making it as bright as possible,

to bring a smile its new owner.

This hat is for a very special head, a friend in another country,

which one we're not sure, who's head is unknown too.

This hat will be added along with mittens, soap, flannel, toothbrush and paste

and lots more to our shoe boxes for

Operation Christmas Child.

http://www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk/

Our seventh year of sending our boxes of love to new friends,

in memory of our girl Emma Joan.

On Sunday, we have invited friends and family to exchange a filled box,

for a slice or two of cake and a cup of tea.

We will gather together and celebrate a little life and all that she has achieved.

Seven Days ( or maybe five this week )

2011-11-05T05:33:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the past week, ordinary days full of rich blessings.
Life and how we live it.

Halloween fun, alittle rushed this year, as just back from our glorious holiday.
Catching up with toys.
Winning first prize in a raffle, a hamper of local goodness.
Loving our tree and her new gown of autumn colours, carpeting the lawn.
Racing round and round, the excitement of friendships.

Join in with your own Seven Days over with Jacqui

http://www.thebarefootcrofter.com/

Loving Lewis - Monday at the Sheep Dip

2011-11-04T02:58:00.000-07:00

A community, come together,

to bring down from the hills and the crofts,

to sort and check,

count and time,

pens of sheep

for dipping.

Amid the laughter, sharing of sweets and tales,

the sounds of hoofs, whistles and gates,

a job gets done.

And if you thought you'd escaped the bath,

evading the sheep dogs round up,

a journey on the back of a quad bike is in order,

to make sure everyone gets their dipping.

Wonderful post by Jacqui about this day here

http://www.thebarefootcrofter.com/2011/10/sheep-dipping.html

Loving Lewis - Traveling Companion

2011-11-02T02:40:00.000-07:00

Our guide,

as we headed home from the beach.

Checking how we're enjoying Lewis ?

And telling of the sights we must see.

Walking awhile with us,

then stepping into the hills,

blending with the landscape once again.

Loving Lewis - on Dalmore Beach

2011-11-01T03:18:00.000-07:00

Wrapped up in coats and hats, wellies amust we headed to the beach.

Buckets, spades and wheel barrows.

Seals enjoying the waves.

Digging, collecting, discovering.

Thinking, dreaming, listening.
Time, peace, space.

Sunday on the Isle.

Traveling to Lewis

2011-10-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

We left home as the sun was rising.

And arrived in Ullapool many, many hours later.

Stops were made along the way, Eddie Stobart trucks counted, naps, knitting and goodies devoured.

Rainy view from our room at The Ferry Boat Inn,

where great food, good wine and warm beds revived us.

In the morning, we admired the fishing boats,enjoyed our Scottish breakfast feast,

found bargains in the charity book shop and after only a couple of hours delay,

set sail.

Shawl for a Mama

2011-10-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

A gift for a Mama.

From my heart to warm hers.

Little Treats.

2011-10-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Knitted using bamboo yarn, what a joy.

Perfect for tucking into packages to give the gift of a smile and a clean face.

At the Croft

2011-10-23T14:00:00.000-07:00

After a long drive, night in a hotel and a ferry ride, by now we will be settling into the joy of visiting with friends on the Isle of Lewis.

Yes, this post is coming via the wonder that is scheduling.

Today, has been filled with hunting for mittens, hats, warm socks and the warmest of outfits,

all needed for our Scottish adventure.

These hand warmers, fresh off the needles are now wrapped and packed, a gift for our hosts hands.

A small token of our thanks .

Details of patterns and yarns used here http://www.ravelry.com/projects/nocton4

Garden Gnomes

2011-10-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

My lovely husband declares these Mushroom Gnomes to be Snow Men in disguise.

Pattern can be found here
http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/cuddly-mushroom-gnomelet

Bringing Home the Heat

2011-10-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

A successful visit to the Wood Auctions, should keep us toasty this Winter.

Coming in from the cold

2011-10-20T05:54:00.000-07:00

First frost of the season, this morning,

making us feel good about devoting some time to the garden at the weekend.

We cleared, filling up the compost heaps.

We dug, a little.

O took time in creating some sculptures,

a delight for the eyes in the season of bare earth.

And we brought in our last Harvest of the year.

Potatoes have been big and plentiful.

Courgettes, a great start but fizzed out quickly.

The girls are still laying, a couple a day, even though we are down to 3 chickens, loosing Linda in the Summer.

Tomatoes, have only managed to feed us in the, pick and eat way with not enough for our normal freezer stock of roasted tomato sauce, such a shame.

We grew as many plants, just a smaller crop.

Chillies, started in the greenhouse, then placed in a sunny spot in the garden.

A good turn out with pots in the freezer, ready for some fire in the cold, dark months.

And one pumpkin with many a baby.

Ground hungry, I think this will be our last year in giving room to these beauties.

And so the garden begins it rest.

on a Sunday Afternoon in the Autumn

2011-10-18T03:18:00.000-07:00

There were pots of tea, scones with jam and cream,dainty china tea cups,

slices of cake and cup cakes aplenty.

There was colourful dresses and frilly knickers.

And fans made of feathers.

Blooming Great Vintage Tea Party

How we LOVE you.

End of the Week Joys

2011-10-15T02:57:00.000-07:00

Daddy's Home.

Golden Autumn light across the fields.

Happy Weekending x

In a Day

2011-10-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

I have

showered, washed my hair, cleaned my teeth

dressed

taken and collected O from playschool

hoovered, swept and washed floors

fed chickens, collected a single egg

fed and watered the dog

made bread, beds, lunch and tea

turned a heel on my socks

had a cuppa with my parents

read (endless) books to O

listened to the radio
saved the sand pit lid from taking flight

hung out, brought in and folded washing

checked emails, FB and Ravelry

lit a fire and a candle

washed up, again and again

mopped up some teenage tears

watched the wind, blowing through the trees

delighted in the colours of the sky

breathed deeply, taking in the Autumn air

and sent some LOVE racing round on the clouds.

Autumn Beauty

2011-10-06T11:45:00.000-07:00

Baskets of squash in the bottom of the larder.

Stunners in the fridge.

in the Making & Repairing

2011-10-04T05:21:00.000-07:00

My Dad is having surgery today, widening a couple of arteries.

An overnight stay, means that my parents, married for 41 years, will be parted, something that has happened only a handful of times in all those years.

I had plans for today, a trip out but staying closer to home, to the phone, being around for my Mum in the end was what my heart needed.

O slept until 10am after a whirlwind trip to Legoland with Daddy and some friends,

plenty of time to distract myself in the kitchen and tick off some of those plans.

Pumpkins baked yesterday, scooped out and stored, some in the freezer and some in the fridge, ready for today.

Hummus made and pumpkin puree added,delicious.
Black beans soaking in the background, ready for cooking and adding to Quinoa and Black Bean Chilli, a new favourite from the 30 day Vegan program.

Spices, sugar and pumpkin blending in the pan for Pumpkin Spice Syrup.

My kitchen smells like the season.

Whats cooking in your kitchen ?

Updated
Dad's surgery went wonderfully, all well and now home.
Thanks for your lovely wishes.

October - The Plans

2011-10-02T06:41:00.000-07:00

Having heard about pinterest for awhile now but not really "getting" it, I finally gave it a look,

http://pinterest.com/

needless to say, it's good, very good.

My boards are growing and I am loving sorting and saving, plans are coming together for baking, making and trips.

Here's our Autumn Must Do board

http://pinterest.com/nocton4/this-autumn-we-will/

( greatly inspired by this lovely post http://carried-family.blogspot.com/2011/09/autumn-colour.html )

So many wonderful pumpkin recipes flooding blogs and sites, I am determined this year to do more than just scoop out and carve for Halloween, feeding the insides to the chickens.

Top on my list are

http://www.recipegirl.com/2007/06/04/baked-pumpkin-doughnuts/

http://www.simplebites.net/simple-chilled-pumpkin-cheesecake-vlog/

http://naturallyella.com/2010/10/04/2054/

pumpkin hummus, sounds amazing.Would love a pumpkin risotto recipe if anyone has one please.

Socktoberfest is a month long sock knitting project http://www.ravelry.com/groups/socktoberfest

Brilliant timing for me, staring Yule gifts and digging into my large stash of sock yarn.

My aim is to finish off a pair that has been on the needles since July and then getting at least one more pair made.

I had quite a pumpkin spice thing, going on in Florida this time last year, so was delighted to see this clever lady's post

http://www.homebakedonline.com/2011/09/easy-pumpkin-spice-syrup-for-drinks.html

So I will be reliving those days with my favourite autumn drink and for the time being the sunshine too.

The end of October brings a very special visit, a week in the Isle of Lewis, so very wonderful in its own rite but staying with this gorgeous family

http://www.thebarefootcrofter.com/

makes it a treat beyond measure ( did you see those pigs, oh my ! )

Would love to hear your plans for the month ahead.

Summers still going strong.

2011-10-01T06:33:00.000-07:00

With Summer giving us such an amazing final flourish, it would seem very rude not to have a day at the beach.

How blessed were we, to be on the sand, under a scorching sun, surrounded by friends, on a week day and incredibly at the very end of September.

The beach was busy, packed with couples in deck chairs, reading books and newspapers with flasks of tea at their sides and then there was us, a riot of buckets, spades, sandwiches, ice creams, toddler tears and dramas, joined by dogs racing around the sands, knocking over drinks and nearly small people, then horses racing by the shore line, had the children chasing over them, with not a hope of catching up but loving the feel of the breeze in their hair and the freedom of such a vast space.

There was time for kite flying, sand art, animal dancing and wave jumping then quick dashes home for some, to pick up older children, ballet classes and tea times.

We stayed late, watching fishermen setting up their lines, dogs chasing balls across the sand, boats and birds.

It seemed only fair to get every last drop of Summer goodness from the day.

How are you celebrating the sunshine ?

Visiting the Ice Cream Parlour

2011-09-29T01:41:00.000-07:00

We sat soaking up the sunshine, watching the leaves falling from the trees, a last minute, unplanned adventure, the best kind.

I managed some knitting, loving the reflection of the seasons colours in my yarn.

O played, chasing shadows, riding on the tractors, lifting his face to the sun over and over again.

Then decisions to be made, for me at least, O knew exactly what he wanted.

Always pink, his favourite and for me cinder toffee, a nod to the true season.

Autumn Blessings x

Yarn Along - 4

2011-09-28T02:21:00.000-07:00

Autumn mists early this morning, burnt off now by a glorious warm, sun.

After a lovely day with friends yesterday at a local nature reserve, soaking up this Indian Summer, we have plans to enjoy every last drop of it, a trip to the beach tomorrow, would do it justice I feel, picnic, buckets and spades having a final fling with this burst of goodness.

Yarning Along again with Ginny over at http://www.gsheller.com/ , such a lovely blog, full of family life in all its rich tapestries.

So, a book and whats on your needles, well as I have both on the go constantly, this is an easy post.

On the needles first, a much loved pattern from Last minute knitted gifts, hand/wrist warmers in autumn shades.

Am on my second pair, this time round, have plans for them, giving the gift of warm hands, to fight off the coming cold.

Details of pattern and wool used on my Ravelry page here http://www.ravelry.com/projects/nocton4/womens-hand-wrist-warmers-3

I am delighted to finally be reading Wren Bay by Clarice Fox-Hughes of http://storybookwoods.typepad.com/

a blog packed full of delights and now a novel with the same feel, why did I wait so long to get a copy.

Happy Days to all x

Glimpses of Summer

2011-09-26T08:19:00.000-07:00

Summer snippets - good food, good days out, good knitting and reading, good times.
Have missed this space, this time to share, connect and discover.
Good to be back.

Saturday Morning Drum Roll

2011-08-20T00:54:00.000-07:00

This Moment - Togetherness

2011-08-19T01:31:00.001-07:00

Inspired by Soulemama. Moments to treasure.

30 Day Vegan - Prep Work

2011-08-14T07:43:00.000-07:00

Recipes have been chosen, such a delicious selection to choose from.
Shopping has been done.

And then with words and stunning pictures from her own kitchen, Heather of http://http://beautythatmoves.typepad.com/beauty_that_moves/
encourages us to spend some time in the kitchen, sorting, clearing, rearranging, preparing for the 30 days ahead.

Sundays were made for washing, pouring, tidying, labelling and after moving the CD player back into the kitchen ( DAB radio heading up to the bedroom I think ) some singing and dancing.

Stirring - applesauce and chopping and roasting - courgettes, onions and garlic for courgette and garlic soup made the kitchen smell divine.

With the kitchen feeling the place to be, heres to the next 30 days and beyond.

The Mystic Cookfire

2011-08-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

The food made at The Mother Camp, cooked in a yurt, in the middle of a field has always been such a treat, a part of camp I really look forward to, nourishing soups, wonderful salads, chillis, curries, fresh cob baked bread and the porridge, always worth crawling out of your sleeping bag at some unearthly hour for.
So, a book full of those recipes, reminders of meals shared with friends old and new, camp fires, workshops and sunshine was always going to be good.
Written by one of your bestest friends, another huge tick.
Finding your name alongside a group of amazing women in the dedications, priceless.

The Mystic Cookfire written by Veronika Sophia Robinson.

http://http//www.themothermagazine.co.uk/bookshop/

Vegetarian recipes packed full of delicious goodness, written with love and care, packed with stunning illustrations, inspirational quotations and definitely worth going without the meat for.

And so, a new food adventure starts, 30 days of being vegan.

Community Beauty. Summer 2011 : 4

2011-08-08T06:51:00.000-07:00

Just off the pavement, a community project.

Marking the place where people gathered to swap stories, hear news and collect water.The village well.

Now a place to sit and reflect.

Or run round and round and round, chasing those fish.

And trying to catch that frog.

Summer 2011 : 3

2011-08-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

Am signed up and ready to go.

http://http//beautythatmoves.typepad.com/beauty_that_moves/2011/06/30-day-vegan-online-workshop-summer-session-1.html

This Moment - Summer 2011 : 2

2011-08-05T06:33:00.000-07:00

This moment, inspired by soulemama.

Summer on a plate.

The gift of knitting

2011-08-03T05:42:00.000-07:00

Knitting to me is a complete pleasure, the best legacy my beloved Nana ever gave me.
There has always been the means to knit, yarn and needles tucked away somewhere throughout my life, even in my teens when a project was left on the needles for months, years and normally finally finished by my Nana.
I remember my first "go it alone" project, using the brightest colours and the wonkiest of stitches, a pinafore dress.I felt so very grown up, purchasing the yarn from a shop in Portland, Dorset and settling down seriously to a project with someone so special in mind, my new God daughter.I was 17 and the pride on my Nana's face when I showed her my first finished project, stays safely tucked in my heart.
Knitting has helped my through some tough times, given me purpose and healing.
The joy of creating to welcome a new life, a birthday celebrating toddler, a girlfriend, a family in need, friends, family,strangers is a gift, a true gift, one I cherish each and every day.
Recently, I passed on my legacy at The Mother Camp, sharing the knowledge given to me.I passed out Nana's needles to knitters, new and those that just needed reminding how to and together we created a blanket for a lovely couple, who were handfasted at camp.A true community effort, sparked, inspired and enabled by Mrs Ethel Joan Head, my Nana.

Poncho for a new little girl, perfect for baby wearing.

Yet another Pickle pattern.

And a bigger one.

Little socks, in rainbow colours for new little feet.

Summer 2011 : 1

2011-08-02T01:51:00.000-07:00

Life threw us some spanners and some rainbows, so blogging was put on hold.

The Spanners - A week each in hospital for K and I, different times and reasons.
My stay led to ear, throat and chest infections.
A week in Kuala Lumpur for N working, semi good for him ( well he was
working ) and very bad for me, fresh out of hospital.

The Rainbows - A day of Nurturing at http://http://theredthreadmotherscircle.blogspot.com/p/nurtured-family-nurtured-earth-2011.html
Weekend of fun in the Forest of Dean
Mother Camp in Yorkshire
Barefoot Festival
Celebrating 18 years of marriage

These events have all been wonderful, inspiring, revitalising, the true rainbows though,have been the people, friends old and new.
Time to sit, hold hands, laugh, smile, cry, listen and be.
Seeing children, growing, changing,blossoming.
Watching new friends, festival for the first time and seeing them indulge in every henna tattoo, face painting, glittery thing going.
Looking at my Love and knowing I did good.

Our garden, yet again, does us proud, Mother Earth, shares her bounty so willingly, even with us lazy, neglectful gardeners.
We topped up with a box of plants from Rocket Gardens http://http://www.rocketgardens.co.uk/?gclid=CK7u8sOksKoCFQoe4QodYVCqLw when we realised we had far too many bare spots.

And now we harvest, potatoes ( in our pjs of course ! ) courgettes, basil, lettuces, rocket, beans, peas,tomatoes, cucumbers, so many riches.
We make plans, thinking of storing, ready for the Winter ahead.
But mainly, for now, we sit back and marvel, give thanks and enjoy.

Summer Love to all x

Suffolk Sunshine

2011-05-18T01:56:00.000-07:00

What a treat, a week in Suffolk.

A week of sailing boats, crabbing off little bridges, fish and chips, delicious ice creams, some vintage shopping, running through fields, watching hares, rabbits and birds, feeding swans, stacking pebbles and so many more simple delights, my list would be endless and all flavoured wth the best of company.

A truly magical week.

This Mama knits and this Mama sews.

2011-05-17T01:22:00.000-07:00

Chicks finally arrived for our spring nests.

Bamboo face cloths for birthday friends.

Dolls for the Woodland group fund raiser.

And then along came the dinosaurs.

This Mama is sewing and her boy is loving it.

At the Tea Party

2011-05-12T01:15:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoons were made for The Blooming Great Vintage Tea Party.
Spending time with friends.
Getting your hair done, who would have guessed how much a victory roll suited me.
Learning new dance moves.

Admiring all the fabulous dresses and hats.
Singing along to ukele bands, blushing at a very daring hoola dancer and toe tapping to an amazing accordian player.

While drinking pots and pots of tea from lovely china cups and eating plenty of cake.

Roll on the next one.

Royal Wedding Celebrating

2011-04-30T03:37:00.000-07:00

Street partying with friends.

Train Trousers

2011-04-28T05:29:00.000-07:00

Its been a year since I had a short lived affair with my sewing machine, trousers for my boy were made http://abigsmile4.blogspot.com/2010/02/i-am-knitter-not-sewer-including-30.html tried on, deemed too tight, folded up, put away and forgotten about, needles and yarn in hand once more and all was well again.
But O is once again in need of some Summer adventuring trousers and with a trunk full of wonderful fabric, gifted from a friend, it felt wrong to hit the high street and part with cash.

So with O at playschool,Woman's Hour on Radio 4, I dusted off my neglected sewing machine once more.The faithful thing, sprang straight to life and these trousers were made in just less than an hour, an hour, for goodness sake.O has decided they are just right for driving trains in.

Excellent pattern and sewing advice, came from here http://handyprojects.blogspot.com/2005/04/how-to-make-easy-kids-pants.html

Plans for two more pairs to be made this lovely, long weekend, O has chosen dinosaur and batik fish fabric, just perfect for Summer fun.

Spring Time Suppers

2011-04-27T05:48:00.000-07:00

Egg Fun

2011-04-24T08:52:00.001-07:00

Blessings of the Season.

Feeding the Deer

2011-04-21T01:11:00.000-07:00

And the adventures keep coming, another wonderful day out, feeding Scottish Red Deer.
A very bumpy tractor ride, took us into their field, the sight of so many and up so close was breath taking.

We fed them handfuls of food, we stroked and admired them, such gentle and handsome animals.

Our guide, a wonderful old Norfolk farmer, was full of tales and information,his love for the deer shone from him, calling them by name and telling stories about his favourite, Sophie, who didn't leave his side.

Sandpits,sunshine, ice creams, Easter eggs and fancy picnic baskets full of china and flasks of coffee all added to the fun, leaving us feeling so very lucky.

13

2011-04-20T00:23:00.000-07:00

Another teenager in the house, my girl is growing up.

Gone are the gifts of toys and in come suitcases, clothes, cinema tickets and the hugest bunch of roses delivered to our door from a much loved God Father.

First Crop of the Season

2011-04-19T02:15:00.000-07:00

Planted with Daddy,watched and watered.

O has tasted and declared mustard 'licous

Back to Blogging

2011-04-18T09:18:00.001-07:00

Exciting times has left this poor blog rather neglected, so yet another catch up and then a post a day to get back into the swing of the wonderful world of blogging, is in order. Lambs to feed, tractors to ride and wonderful friends to share the day with.

40th birthday (mine, argh ! ) weekend away, tucked away in Wales without children for the first time in forever, visits to Wonderwool http://www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk/ and CAT http://www.cat.org.uk/ meeting up with friends, good food and champagne induced early evening sleep made 40 feel not so bad.

Another day at the beach with more kite flying, wave chasing, flasks of coffee and picnics.

Mother's Day Lunch

2011-04-05T01:05:00.000-07:00

with Friends

2011-04-04T04:33:00.000-07:00

Magical Spring Days.

Skyline Stunners

2011-03-30T04:38:00.000-07:00

A glorious day here http://www.ecotech.org.uk/contacts.html Admiring the blue sky, waving to the brave people who ventured to the top of the turbine, see the viewing platform ? Too high for us, we stayed safely on Mother Earth, playing and chatting with the bestest of friends.

At the Beach

2011-03-28T05:03:00.000-07:00

First trip of the season to the beach, many more planned.

Still chilly, jackets needed.

Kites flown and castles built.

Picnics eaten.

Freezing spring fresh water.

Diggers clearing pathways and causing much excitement.

Shadows chased.

A little knitting done.

Blue skies and friends.

March Catch Up

2011-03-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

A weekend in Haworth, Yorkshire, with knitting friends.
Visits to mills stuffed high with gorgeous yarns, exotic Indian stores, cakes and cuppas always to hand.

Workshops to share skills, lovely meals, great company and plenty of time for knitting, even while waiting for the coach.

Views to inspire.

Farm visit with friends.

New babes to delight.

Flowers, cards and love, so much love from friends.
Remembering our little girl
6 years.

March with all its beauty, heartache and renewal.

*First yellow butterfly of the season, dancing in the garden 19th March*

Back in the Garden

2011-03-07T05:38:00.000-08:00

Opening up the sand pit was like unearthing new treasures for O and the girls, were very interested too.

Sunshine, seeds planted and soil beneath my nails, heaven.

Fishing Friends

2011-03-04T02:31:00.001-08:00

This moment,a Friday Tradition, inspired by Soulemama.

A time to cherish, celebrate and honour.

Ordinary times that touch the heart.

Times never to forget.

Welcoming Spring

2011-03-01T04:03:00.000-08:00

With a plate of scones made by K, spread with jam gifted from friends, plants and candles on table and tea in pretty china.

Enjoying the wonderful new issue of http://rhythmofthehome.com/ full of Spring time inspiration.

Its all about the books.

2011-02-25T03:44:00.000-08:00

This moment - A Friday Tradition, inspired by Soulemama.

Times to cherish, times to pause and savour, times to give thanks for.

Spring on the Seasons Table

2011-02-18T01:52:00.001-08:00

Inspired by SouleMama - A Friday tradition, a time to reflect, a time to cherish, a time to feel humbled by the beauty surrounding us.

Back in Business

2011-02-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

4 chickens, 4 eggs, finally everyone is back laying.

Welcome Spring Time, you've been missed.

Birch Buttons on new Knits

2011-02-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

This moment -A Friday Tradition, Inspired by Soulemama, a moment to pause, cherish, give thanks and smile.

Then the Sun shone ....

2011-02-08T02:48:00.000-08:00

so I swept and washed a floor,

changed the beds,

lit candles to welcome the returning light,

turned the cd up, just a bit louder,

danced,

cleaned and opened the windows,

opened the door and let the fresh, Spring air rush in, clearing away those Wintery corners,

hung washing out,

stood with my face to the sun and gave thanks.

Mama Made Medicine

2011-02-05T04:27:00.000-08:00

Our home has been filled with the sound of coughing, day and worse at night.

So, Mama made some medicine.

Horehound Cough Cure ( would post a link but don't seem to be able to, anyone else having problems copy and pasting ? advice .. please )

It's kicking the coughing out the door.

http://http://www.ehow.com/how_5066201_make-homemade-horehound-cough-syrup.html

ok, here is the link, finally !

Celebrating Imbolc

2011-01-31T02:01:00.000-08:00

"Come Bride, Come Bride, enter in

Your bed is made up, nice and daisy,

Come Bride, Come Bride, enter in

We're ready for your blessing now

Ready for your blessing, now"

Today we will decorate our door with a ribbon, in faith that the Goddess of Imbolc, Bridget, will bless us and our home tonight as she passes by, bringing in the Spring.

With the Fishes.

2011-01-27T23:55:00.000-08:00

Inspired by SouleMama, a moment without words, a cherished moment, a moment to smile.

Life in the Fast Lane

2011-01-24T04:56:00.000-08:00

Life is whizzing by at a fair old pace here.
The blur that was the weekend, was full of fun.
We have been partying to celebrate a friend's third birthday.

Coffee and cakes ( and wonderful parsnip soup ) at a gorgeous organic small holding.
A lovely play date with toast and pate thrown in.

Laundry, shopping and chicken coop cleaning.

Wood chopping.

And then Monday morning, brought uniform shopping, for a girl, that at the grand, old age of nearly 13, will be heading to school for the first time on Friday, yes this Friday !

Yarn Along - 3

2011-01-19T02:27:00.000-08:00

Hello and huge thanks to all the Yarn Alongers, who left such wonderful comments on my first YA post, much appreciated, knitters what a great crowd.
Feel like joining in the fun ? posting a current WIP and your book of the moment, visit here, it's a real treat http://www.gsheller.com/

I am noticing a habit with my knitting, find a good, straight forward pattern and then knitting it several times, so it's with no surprise that I find myself on my third plain vest, pattern from Pickles and very happy with them all too, this one, size 4 is for a birthday girl, who will be partying on Saturday, so must get a move on.

The lilac yarn is a gorgeous, soft delight, perfect for looking forward to Spring.It came, along with many, many friends as a woolly-tastic gift from this fantastic blogger http://when-i-get-the-time.blogspot.com/ thanks again honey, oh the fun to be had with 2 brimming bags of yarn, what plans I have.

A new book, Death at Wentwater Court by Carola Dunn, new author to me, came in a set of 8, so fingers crossed I like them !

Daisy Dalrymple is, I think, going to turn out to be the Miss Marple of the '20s, swapping twin set and pearls for flapper style attire, while solving many a mystery, perfect for this late winter reading.

Taking the time to ....

2011-01-13T11:24:00.000-08:00

Play.

Peace through the mail

2011-01-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

Just as I hit the "publish post" button yesterday, the postman knocked the door. Nestled amongst what was mostly junk mail, was a package for me, familiar writing, making me smile before even opening it.

Tucked inside was this little beauty, winking at me was it clear and bright message .... Peace.
I laughed, cried and laughed some more.

Then today's mail, brought another treasure, a card, covered in woolly knits, a card, saying Hi, am thinking of you, a card that carried with it love, care and Peace.
These gifts of Peace, from two very wise woman, thank you Veronika of the amazing Mother Magazine http://wwwthemothermazine.blogspot.com/ and Claire, who blogs about her gorgeous family here http://blackhobbescat.blogspot.com/
Both knowing some Peace was needed before I had realised it myself.

Today, has in places, felt fresher, somewhat less foggy.We made it out to our Home Ed group, perhaps for the last time in awhile.It was good to chat, catch up with news and share some laughter.
Home to change our bed, wash up the breakfast dishes that were missed in the mad scramble to get out the door this morning and just now light the fire, all ordinary, every day things that are beginning to come with a huge dollop of Peace.

Love and the brightest of blessings for all the wonderful comments yesterday, how they made my heart sing, lifting my spirits, thank you all.

Finding Peace.

2011-01-10T04:54:00.000-08:00

Isn't it so easy to get caught up in how good everyone else's lives look ? believing no storm ever rocks their boats, the sun is always shining and that almost everyone else's family life is brimming with gorgeous goodness, 24 hours of each and every day. Leaving you feeling even lower about the blows you are facing.
And so I am so very thankful for reading over the last few days, some of the most honest, heartfelt posts on blogs and forums of the hardships people are facing in their families, giving my heart some ease, knowing I am not alone.

2011 seems to have blown into our home with abit of a force.
So I am taking my time and trying hard to find peace in the ordinary, the every day, the familiar.
Looking back over the past few weeks, I am not sure the holidays helped us, it all felt so good at the time, later nights with lie ins for all the next morning, which we convinced ourselves made up for the whiny, over tired child of the night before, the grab what you want when you want meal times, that had nothing of any goodness really being eaten but lots of goodies disappearing at an alarming rate, the treat of the TV being on for more hours in the day then in our normal viewing week and more, sadly much more.

And so into January, still struggling to shake off the habits picked up so very quickly.
I am trying to find peace in the stillness, the quiet and the plain.

A new Year with new plans ahead of us, new adventures to face, K will be heading to school at the grand age of 12 ( nearly 13 ) leaving us non-home educators for the first time in 8 years, a morning at play group for O, will do both him and his Mama good I feel, trips to Aberdeen and India are already on the cards for N and L has his own grand plans as he moves ever nearer to his independence.

So this Mama, feeling alittle weary and heart sad is trying to find peace, in the every day and the ordinary.

Deep peace of the running waves to you

Deep peace of the flowing air to you

Deep peace of the quiet earth to you

Deep peace of the shining stars to you

Deep peace of infinite peace to you

Celtic prayer.

A Read and a Knit - Yarn Along 2

2011-01-05T00:43:00.000-08:00

The Read - The Garden Cottage Diaries by Fiona J. Houston, a year of stepping back into 18th century living, a perfect choice for the holidays, so easy to pick up and put down, snippets of daily chores, recipes, hardships and lovely nature notes.

The Knit - Plain Vest by Pickles number 2, first was cast on Solstice night for O, perfect silvery yarn reflecting the snow and ice, this one is going to be a gift for a friend's child turning 1.
Size 1 of this pattern is available free on the Pickles website.
http://shop.pickles.no/en/products/patterns/patterns-w-yarns/plain-vest.html
I added some extra length for O's size 4 and will do again on the littler version.

Go share your WIP and latest reads over at http://www.gsheller.com/
they're a very friendly crowd.

Peppermint Bark

2011-01-04T02:33:00.000-08:00

So good, nearly didn't make it out the door for gifts.

Keeping Mum & Dad's Hands Warm.

2011-01-02T13:01:00.000-08:00

Gifts for my parents.
Patterns from Last minute knitted gifts.

Gentle, easy knits before holiday fun began.

Hoping the holidays have been restorative for you and your families and wishing a happy, healthy 2011 to you all.

Our Solstice Princess

2010-12-22T01:30:00.000-08:00

Under the full moon,

my beautiful daughter, our Solstice Princess, ruled over a frozen Woodland, handing out candles and Winter Wishes.

Visitors to her and the Winter King, followed a lantern lit path.

Through Heart Wood, full of frozen treasures.

So very cold with temperatures of -8, fires and bundles of woolens struggling to keep us warm
but a magical night of Solstice fun.

Rich Winter Blessings to all, may your inner light burn brightly.

Gifting

2010-12-18T03:08:00.000-08:00

Candles & cinnamon sticks for girlfriends, wrapped with handmade paper.

Felt decorations for Aunties.

Such a simple project, great to pick up in the evenings.

Six same size circles of felt.Put 3 on top of each other and sew a piece of ribbon for hanging it at the top, then add the other 3 circles and sew down the middle of all 6.

Catch edges of circles together in the middle with a couple of stitches,working your way round.

Then catch top and bottom of circles with stitches on alternate ones.

An early surprise gift for K and her friend, a make-up lesson with a professional artist.

Little Donkey

2010-12-16T01:21:00.001-08:00

An afternoon of gingerbread biscuit making, bowls of Norwegian porridge topped with butter, sugar and cinnamon, was followed by

a magical, moon lit, woodland walk with some donkeys,

wearing elf hats and red wellies of course,

Blurry, fuzzy photos of a Yule treat with friends,

and at the end of our stroll, a special scene to admire.

Crafting with Friends

2010-12-13T01:05:00.000-08:00

We gathered with supplies.

We mixed, tied, wrapped, rolled and tasted.

We laughed, smiled and cried ( the children, that old sharing thing ! )

We enjoyed.

and finally ....

2010-12-09T06:17:00.000-08:00

Anyone remember this ? http://abigsmile4.blogspot.com/2008/10/joining-queue.html
Pattern and yarn bought to celebrate O turning 1.

So, it made it off the needles by the time he was 2.

And, I've finally managed to blog about it, now he is 3 ( and 3 months )

Good job I knitted it big, still be around by the time he's 6, by my reckoning.

Yarn Along

2010-12-08T00:51:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to join in with this wonderful group over at http://www.gsheller.com/ sharing a WIP and a current read,for awhile now and finally am ready on the right day.

On the needles, a Yule gift for my Dad, big, thick, manly hand warmers, pattern from Last minute knitted gifts. A quick and easy knit, a tube of double rib with a gap left for the thumb, adding extra length after the opening as pattern was abit mean with length on hand.

Some current reads, my Amish interest is fed by these gentle books by Beverly Lewis, a treat from Florida.Tales of buggies, cooking, knitting and all things homely are perfect for the end of the day, afew chapters snuggled down in bed under a patchwork quilt, bliss.

Another book picked up in America and the last Little House book I had to read, always a treat although this thin, little book was full of struggle and hardship for Laura and Manly, and although I knew somewhere in those pages was the loss of a baby boy, when it came, described in 2 short lines, ofcourse it left me a weeping mess.

What are you reading ?

Mother Earth Medicine

2010-12-07T00:51:00.000-08:00

With our World still blanketed in white and temps of -15, I am so thankful for our store of Mother Earth goodness, to ease the coughs and sneezes that are creeping into our home.

Chicken Feet Snow Stars

2010-12-03T00:30:00.000-08:00

This moment, a Friday tradition, a time to cherish, to remember, to honour its importance.To stop and give thanks, a time to feel blessed.
Inspired by SouleMama http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/

Foods to Warm

2010-12-02T06:49:00.000-08:00

Our days are beating to a slightly different drum lately due to the amazing amount of snow we've had, L's college is closed until Monday and N hasn't been able to get the car out of the village, so is working from home.

Such a gift to sit down to lunch together, candle lit, bowls of root veg soup and homemade bread. A true midday treat.

Remembering our feathered friends this morning, we made them foodie gifts to hang from our trees, so pretty.

Instructions here - http://themagiconions.blogspot.com/2010/07/darling-little-birdseed-cakes.html

Mugs of spiced chai latte and K's flapjacks for a delicious afternoon treat.

How I love snow days.

and we woke to a white World.

2010-12-01T02:35:00.000-08:00

Stunningly beautiful.

Completely magical.

All home today, fire lit, cosy times.

Be well, be warm, relax and enjoy.

From the warmth of my window

2010-11-30T08:24:00.000-08:00

I wait for a husband walking the 8 miles home from work, public transport having stopped and news of my Dad trying to find a way home when it seems all the routes are blocked.

Thanks for the love, all home in the warm now .... and breathe.

Aglow

2010-11-29T05:45:00.000-08:00

With chilli warming our bellies and the first light of our advent candle shining out, we are aglow.

Baby, it's cold outside.

2010-11-28T07:14:00.000-08:00

In just over a week, we have been plunged from blue skies, shorts and t-shirts, outdoor swimming and a sun wrapping us in her warmth,

to a frozen, snow covered land with temperatures barely making it out of the negative.

To say we are struggling would be an understatement, beds have been remade with flannel sheets and piled high with blankets,thermals have been unearthed, hats and scarfs always to hand and a pair of mittens for O frantically finished.

The fire is bringing not only, much needed warmth but brightness too, soothing our souls and lessening this harsh transition.

I collected greenery from around the garden this morning, followed faithfully by my girls.The house was filled with the scent of bay, fir and rosemary as O and I made up our advent ring, putting the first candle in place, ready for lighting later.

Always an inspiration, I loved reading Kelly's fine words over at The Magic Onions, guest blogging for the Discovering Waldorf series

http://themagiconions.blogspot.com/2010/11/discovering-waldorf-sharing-light-of.html

Love and Light to All

Tales of Florida

2010-11-22T02:22:00.000-08:00

Well my plans to update while away went out the window, when the laptop caught a virus from which it could not be revived !
So a "show and tell" holiday catch-up,

Pumpkin pancakes at I-Hop, goodness these were good.We went back afew times, for research purposes ofcourse.

Yes, that's O up there with his Daddy, I was blown away by his need for the "bigger the better" roller coasters ! His height kept him off plenty ( thank goodness ) but he loved the ones he could go on, riding them again and again with his partner in crime, Daddy and K when she felt brave enough.

To roll out of bed in the morning straight into your own pool, what a treat.

Such fun.

Cocoa Beach, watching the waves, the birds, amazing surfers and each other.

Boat trips around the lake.

and some Disney magic.

Boxes of Kisses

2010-11-01T05:55:00.000-07:00

Filled with flannels, soap, toothpaste & toothbrush, toys, pens & pencils, tissues, hairbrushes, clips and more.

Some of the items change but always some mittens, each one knitted with the child who will wear them in mind, each stitch knitted with love in my heart, each stitch sending wishes of health and happiness, each pair sent with promises of a better future, sent with the knowledge that someone cares, someone loves them, they are thought of.

And for the last 6 years as we remember our daughter Emma Joan and honour her memory with these boxes of love, as I wrap each and every one we send, as I close the lid, I blow a kiss inside and hope as the lid is lifted in some far away land, that kiss flys out and lands on a cheek and that little person feels the love we send.

http://www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk/

Happy Samhain

2010-10-31T04:29:00.000-07:00

Richest and brightest Blessings to all x

Tiny Treasures

2010-10-29T04:23:00.000-07:00

This moment, a Friday tradition, a time to cherish, to remember, to honour its importance.To stop and give thanks, a time to feel blessed.

Inspired by SouleMama http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/