dandelion

summer loving

2012-01-19T21:12:00.001+11:00

I'm loving summer. I love the smell of summer, the raspberries and cream taste of summer. The birds in the blue sky sound of summer. the slightly sunburnt, way too tired feel of summer, after a day at the beach.

I've loved having a couple of days in Melbourne with my two youngest girls and my eldest. I loved watching the girls play, together, running in the wind, holding hands, swinging, climbing high. I love the way they try to work things out, the simple joy of watching them having fun is so beautiful.

We had a crazy old, funny time at the beach. For my country girls it's such a huge adventure. One a little nervous but her sister helped her to find the courage to step in, go deeper.

I found a beat up old chair and plonked it in the sand next to an extremely tanned exotic dancer. She was amazing in her red bikini on a striped banana lounge. The girls skipped over waves, splashed, looked for shells, watching the beach police driving up and down, the groups of families, the gulls and the ships dotted on the horizon. They were amazed at the rubbish in the water and helped to drag a whole newspaper out. Eventually we had to go, we left the chair for someone else.

We got to do city things too. The Muppet movie was incredibly great! I loved it and so did they. We did a little bit of shopping and Rosie practised her escalator skills. They negotiated crowds, learning to walk so as not to bump into people, a tricky thing if you are never in a crowd.

We stared up at the roof of Melbourne Central with it's beautiful old shot tower, gracefully still standing amongst the endless shops and bustling throng.

We spent time with our beloved Char. When the girls were in bed she & I became detectives and hunted down lost family on Ancestry.com./

So much fun, so addictive, so amazing. We found the ancestors of dear William Henry Walker who died in a gold mine. His grandfather, his brother, our relatives, our blood. Char found the shipping information for my parents trip to England in 1960 - their names crossed out as they jumped ship in Marseilles, hoping to hitch hike to London.

We went out for dinner, walking the hot & steamy footpaths of Lygon Street where I had flashbacks from the 70's. There once was a pub on the corner of Lygon and Faraday and I went there often as a child, with my friend and her mum. Us kids looked for lost coins on the sticky carpet under the bar, and ate peanuts from a machine. All to the sounds of Skyhooks and The Stones and Bob Dylan on the jukebox. It was such a different time, we did as we pleased really, as the adults drank and smoked and partied on. Hard to imagine now. What was that pub called?

I took the kids to Ikea where we looked in all the rooms, picking our favourites and sitting on couches not wanting to ever get up. I wonder if anyone has ever crawled into one of the beds for a nap and stayed the night. Imagine that.

We managed to sneak in a bit of op shopping too. The amazing oppie in Woodend had a half price sale, woo hoo! And a trip to Savers is always fun. We tried on dresses and skirts and found some ace treasures.

We're home now and our summer holiday continues. I'm loving the looseness of time, the sleep ins and the freeness to do as we please. Although it was fun to be at school today for a working bee, nice to see old mates and give the grounds a tidy up.

What's happening in your world? Are you finding some simple things to make you smile? Hope so,

see you soon lovely ones xo

Tagxedo by Sunday

Holiday

2012-01-13T12:25:00.000+11:00

Hey friends! We're back from our trip to Robe, busy unpacking, re adjusting and keeping warm as it's much colder here in Daylesford. We had a great time and I really loved the road tripping. One highlight was going through the town of Linton where some of my ancestors lived and worked, over a hundred years ago. The girls and I ran through the long grass in the old cemetery, looking for Walkers and Hogans, passed the graves of so many from long ago. Chinese, Roman Catholic, Irish, many who had come out in the gold rush of the 1850's. We finally found the grave of poor William Henry Walker, who died aged 21 in a mine accident. I knew of this story but standing in front of his headstone I felt a real connection with family, as strong as a heart beat.

Moving on we drove through many tiny towns. Some still pulsing with life and others where the life and soul seemed to have drained away. I feel for these little towns, it's so hard to keep a community going when there is no work and people move away to survive, to have a life. You can sense the hustle and bustle of days gone by, in the many old buildings with their jaunty signage now fading away. I have a real affection for these towns, for the buildings, for their history and people. Luckily op shops are still buzzing along and I was so excited each time we passed an open one! Hamilton gave me some cushions and doilies and a dear little ceramic house.

In Coleraine we stopped for a break and a play at the netball courts. I managed to take this crazy shot of Rosie, wow!

After about 5 hours we were nearly there!

We settled in to our cabin, reunited with the rest of our family and friends, and hit the beach. Robe is very windy, situated where it is, but that didn't bother the kids. The colour of the water is AMAZING! so turquoise!

It was good having Charlotte with us, we don't get to see her so much these days.

We explored this beautiful old limestone building on the edge of the caravan park. I fell in love with the old wood stove in the kitchen, with it's pretty tiles and massive fire place. There is something magic about a stove like this, spreading its warmth like a glowing heart, so snug to sit near. I've always wanted one in our kitchen. Maybe not as big though!

One of the best bits of being at Robe was hanging out with friends. Rosie got to ride her bike heaps and visit Cheeky Monkey Simon, her godfather and mate.

And the other kids played and rode and mucked around all day with their friends. I loved the way this meant we weren't always organising things, it all happened around us with not much planning. Lovely!

Char and I took a spin out to Kingston one day for a change of scene. We drove past this amazing old homestead which really captivated me. So many buildings sadly in bad condition,

and a beautiful, ancient lemon tree standing regally in the courtyard.

It's yellow lemons smelled delicious so I picked a few, thinking of the others who

would have tended this sweet garden so many years ago.

Then we hit the op shop and I was in heaven! So many gorgeous treasures, I could have stayed there all day. This op shop in Kingston is a real flash back to the way oppies uses to be. Cheap, cheerful, not picked over and with so much atmosphere. I was as happy as a clam.

After that amazing experience it was time for lunch. We found a cute old fashioned bakery and got stuck into sandwiches and shared a truly incredible cream filled donut. Boy oh boy.

Sitting by the pier we watched the birds fly past and stared out at the sea. Such a rugged and isolated town, and beautiful with it's limestone buildings and vast stretches of beach and sky. I'll definitely be going back.

Yesterday we headed back home, through the same sweet towns, past the same brown fields to our own little town that we love. It's good to be back and I now feel like I truly am on holiday, relaxed and ready for the new year. Are you having a happy January? I hope so, lovely ones. See you soon xo

summer holidays..

2012-01-05T21:43:00.001+11:00

Hello!

Happy New Year!! Did you have a fun New Years Eve? We did, although I was sorry to miss the annual Daylesford Gala Parade this year. Our neighbour and friend, Ruby, looked so fabulous and I wanted to see her and all the other amazing people who were taking part. Oh well, there's always next year..

We had a fun time at a friends house anyway, although I was in bed before the new year began. Were you? I lay in bed and listened to the fireworks exploding over the lake, bang bang bang!

The next day was a biggie for me so I got up early and headed off with Lucy to Glenlyon. Our little school runs the BBQ and kiosk at a big, old fashioned sports day that runs on the first day of the new year.

It's been running since 1847 and each New Years Day they put on horse races, wood chopping, mineral water drinking and gumboot throwing competitions, amongst other things. It's a great day and we have a lot of fun. I love it!

It's a real family day, lots of kids running around, watching the comps from the red truck, and many visitors from all over the state coming to enjoy a day in the country. It was a hot one too, so we did a roaring trade in icy poles and cold drinks.

So it's day four of 2012, how is the new year shaping up for you? We've had a shaky start with a bit of illness, never fun in summer. And in two days we are heading off to Robe in South Australia...I hope everyone is well for the trip.

A group of friends are setting up camp in Robe so we are looking forward to hanging out together, walking on the beach, eating, drinking, chatting, and hopefully RELAXING!

I can't wait to get to the beach, I'm craving some sand and sea and shell action. Do you get like that? I think it's the thought of a change of pace too, a different scene. When we lived in the city I loved heading up to the bush to get away from the hustle and bustle. I guess we all like a change, it clears the air, brings a new perspective, I love that.

Although I'm enjoying the holidays I haven't really settled into them yet. I haven't found my holiday feet.
Hopefully this trip will be a fun one, perhaps it's just what I need.

I'll miss our doggies who are going to the dog motel for a week, and all the ducks and other creatures. Mumma duck is back on duty, sitting on five white eggs which will hatch out in about 20 days! More baby ducks..sigh.. :)

So, one more day and we're on the road! Charlotte is coming too, the whole family together again. I'm sure we'll have some fun, some crazy moments, some tears and lots of laughs. Maybe that's what the summer holidays are all about, going with the flow, ups and downs and hanging together.

What are you up to? Are you on holidays too?

Hope you are having some relaxing time too..see you soon lovely friends xo

Dreaming, thinking, planning

2011-12-27T14:48:00.000+11:00

Today I went for a lovely long walk around Lake Daylesford and found myself thinking about lots of things. Blogging, life, the kids, creative outlets, books, love. Walking is good like that. Lately I've been noticing how much I need that time to myself to think about life, to have space to contemplate what is happening for me at that moment. It's just nice to have some quiet time, something that is fairly rare in my world!

Do you find that too? I love the space I get on long walks or long drives, like to Melbourne, on my own. I get to think about all the ideas that are on hold in my mind.

I've got an idea for a film I'd love to make, about motherhood actually, and recently I got so caught up planning it that I totally missed the turn off and ended up in Bell St, Preston instead. Funny.

Anyway, Christmas has been fun but I'm glad it's behind us now. I'm loving the summer holidays already, the more relaxed pace and just hanging out with my family gang.

I'm also trying to tackle some of those projects that need some attention.

Boring but necessary ones like fixing up the front garden, sweeping out the dogs 'room', etc and fun ones like my vintage sheet bed cover/quilts. I can't wait to finish the first one, it's almost done. Lovely Phillippa has let me borrow her overlocker which is ace!

How was your Christmas? Do you celebrate it? The main thing I love about Christmas is being with family. I love our traditions, like going to Mum's on Boxing Day.

Mum loved her Nanny doll, a little present from Rosie. Rosie sewed it all by herself and I helped her with Nan's glasses,

and the teensy tiny knitting needles. We made the needles out of skewers and added red beads to the ends. The knitting part was hard, but fun! I noticed Mum was itching to keep going on it too. Maybe she will! She could make her doll a scarf!

It was also good to see our extended family that we don't get to see very often, on Christmas Day.

Kate with Charlotte.

We drove down to the beachy parts of Melbourne to have lunch with my cousin Kim and her family. There were lots of people, about 32 I think, and we had a great time, eating and chatting. They have a beautiful house, I fell in love with their hallway, again.

I also made my first pavlova! Wow, I wonder why I haven't tried it before. Char helped me whip the eggs and Alison From Next Door gave us some of her amazing logan berries. We covered the top of the pav with mixed berries and cherry juice, it was AMAZING! I'm hooked, now I just need to get a good supply of eggs! We only have on chook laying at the moment and the dogs are the only ones who know where she lays. We only ever see the egg shells...! Oh well, the farmers market is coming up so we'll have to get some more chookies.

Anyway lovely ones, I better skedaddle and make the most of this beautiful sunshiny day. I hope your end of year is a happy one and that you too get some space to think, to plan, to dream.

See you soon xo

(There's a good reason for Julia's sideways glance at my brother, Ben..he is a cheeky boy! )

The week before Christmas..

2011-12-19T09:24:00.001+11:00

Hi! These three happy faces are smiling so much because school has finished and we are on summer holidays!!! Woo hoo! I'm loving it already. I love to sit in bed in the morning with a cup of tea and read the paper, and just relax without rushing around like a headless chook!

We've had a busy end of term with another ballet presentation, this time it was Lucy's turn. Lucy began ballet only this year and has come a long way already. She danced beautifully on Saturday and we were so proud of her. She also helped out with the prep class this year and it was so sweet to see her getting cuddles and love from all the little ones backstage.

At school we had an emotional week for a couple of reasons,

one of which was a much loved teacher was leaving after 13 years, there were many tears at the final assembly. Luckily the preps put on a beautiful nativity play which cheered us all up a bit...

and then there was Elvis...

Yes, he has lost a bit of weight. I think he's ditched the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches...

So the clock is ticking and it's getting closer to Christmas! Are you excited? Exhausted? Organised or in a mess? I'm a bit of everything, although I think mainly I'm happy as life has slowed down and I really need that break from the whirl of busyness.

My kids are settling down too, they have been so tired and yes, quite cranky lately. Not all of them, and not all at once, thank god, but I guess they need time to relax too.

We're all looking forward to Charlotte coming home on Friday! I love it when we are all together.

In the mean time there is plenty to do this week. Finish of Christmas cards, find homes for our baby ducks, clean up at school, get those last minute presents sorted, and today I'll have to clean up our sunroom that was seriously flooded last night after a massive and scary storm. I'm also hanging out to see a lovely friend who is just back from her big trip around Australia. Yay!

What are you up to?

I hope the week before Christmas is a happy one. I hope you find much to enjoy, to celebrate,

and to love. I hope you have some time to unwind, to relax, to see the small things of beauty, some time to laugh & have fun with your family and friends. Life is so fragile isn't it?

Much love to you all,

see you soon dear friends xo

Helllloooooo!!!

2011-12-08T11:38:00.000+11:00

...lovely friends!! Just checking in to say hello as the madness of the end of year hovers around me.

Some thing has to give when life is so busy and I guess for me lately that's been my blog. I hope to catch up more with all of you over the summer, I'm sorry I haven't been to visit much recently.

Since my Sydney post (still on a high about that trip!) Bill has turned 10,

and my mermaid girl,

turned into a flower for the amazing end of year ballet recital. Rosie and Sunday both dancing beautifully and it was so thrilling to be in the audience watching them on the magnificent stage at Her Majesty's in Ballarat. Wow!

I've been busy helping out at school with various events which is a lot of fun but time consuming too!
I'm so looking forward to the holidays and having more time for the kids & Mark, the ducks and all our pets. Yes, that means YOU Daisy!

My plans for making vintage linen quilts has gone by the wayside, temporarily, and I'm itching to get back into it. All my beautiful sheets and pillow cases have been soaked, washed and ironed and they are waiting patiently for my attention.

I'm sad because I haven't had much time to take photo's lately and I'm missing it. Luckily Instagram has been a fun and easy way to get some snaps into my life, thank god for Instagram! Another thing on my list for the summer, photography! And reading, walking, swimming, relaxing, decluttering, catching up with friends and hopefully planning our renovation!

What have you got planned for the holidays? Hope to see you soon, bye for now xoxoxooxoxox

Sydney!!!!

2011-11-29T12:15:00.002+11:00

Bill and I had a fantastic trip to Sydney!

Probably the best part for me was the look on his face when he read out my last post on my iphone as we took the turn off to the airport. He just couldn't believe we were going to Sydney not Melbourne! I don't think he really did until we were on the plane, what an excellent surprise it was!

Although it was raining quite a lot of the time we were there we still had fun and did so many things. We both loved the ferry ride across the magnificent Sydney Harbour...where we saw..

(replica) ships from the First Fleet....

sail boats...

..tug boats...

....and massive ships. I loved being on the harbour, there is so much to look at and it is truly such a beautiful place to be. How could you ever get sick of such views? Lucky Sydney siders.. :)

Over on Manly beach we just enjoyed being at the beach, something we miss in Daylesford.

We looked for shells, swam in the water, watched people, boats and clouds.

It was simply..

blissful.

Bill and I packed a lot into our 24 hours in Sydney, we stayed at the YHA in The Rocks (which was great) and climbed a million steps up and down. It's such an amazing historic area, I loved it.

We watched a film about the making of the Harbour Bridge, went to a book shop & a movie, we ate waffles, and hot chips and ice cream.

We caught trains, and cabs and ferries,

and the monorail! Fun!

One of the highlights was the Power House Museum. We both walked around in awe at the many mind blowing exhibits. The oldest steam train in NSW, planes hanging from the ceiling, rocket parts, the penny farthing..old tram cars and carriages...all so beautifully made and decorative.

I have so many shots from the museum so I won't bore you with them all but we had the BEST time there and I can't wait to go back one day. Bill loved all the scientific sections with experiments etc. Not so much my cup of tea but it was fun to see him enjoying it.

Another highlight was catching up with Susie from Flower Press. We almost didn't make it but I'm so glad we did. Susie took us on a trek for coffee through the crowds of School Spectacular students, an amazing motor bike jumping display (!!), Darling Harbour and past Paddy's Market. A real splice of inner Sydney! It was great to finally meet Susie and sit and have a chat with her. Susie, thanks so much for coming in to see us, I hope next time we can come and visit you and meet your family too.

I could go on forever about our mini trip to Sydney but I'll finish up now as it's hard to know when to stop sometimes. I'm SO glad I did this with Bill, it was a precious moment in time that we will both remember. Life with kids is so busy and it's easy to get caught up in the Managing and the Surviving, the Cleaning and Organising that sometimes you need to step back and just enjoy time together.

I really enjoyed chatting with Bill and hearing his ideas and observations. It was good for him to go somewhere so different and bustling, a big city with so many different cultures and things to see. I like having some special one on one time with my kids, whether it's a big trip like this or just doing something more simple. I guess it's the time spent together that is what you remember. I definitely want to do this with all my kids - I hope I can.

So I've been rambling on..what have YOU been up to lately?

Hope it's been fun and inspiring, and that you are not to caught up in the end of year stress.

Take care lovely ones,

I'll see you soon xo

Woo hoo!

2011-11-25T07:58:00.000+11:00

Just a quick post today as I am off on a trip with my son Bill. He thinks we are going to Melbourne for some mother/son time to celebrate his 10th birthday but we are really going somewhere else.

Can you guess? I'm so excited!!!

See you soon lovely ones xo

They're here!

2011-11-22T12:47:00.000+11:00

They've arrived!!! Yes, our ducklings are hatching, with seven born and one hatching as I write this post.

Behind this door the mother ducks have been working hard over the last few weeks, patiently sitting,

amongst the straw and feathers, keeping those precious eggs warm.

The kids have been waiting too..

and watching.

Suddenly they began to arrive! Here is Bandit, the only brown one so far.

And his six fluffy siblings, aren't they the cutest?

The whole garden has been buzzing with the news of the ducklings arrival, here are Norman and White Chook, off for a sticky beak.

As you can imagine, I could take photo's of them all day long. The mums are graciously putting up with me,

and they even let me have a close look into the nest where I was lucky to find another little brown baby hatching!

Hello!

Here it is a little bit later, having a brief visit inside before hopping back under the warm feathers of one of it's mums. Breaking out of the egg must be tiring, this little one looks exhausted. But they so quickly perk up and seem to grow bigger even as we watch them.

Exciting times at our house this week. It's so amazing watching new life begin, this is one of the most magical parts of having pets and animals, children too! I saw a new born baby at school today and felt that same warm rush of happiness, such a precious time.

I hope your week is a happy one, see you soon lovely ones xo

Enid and other stories...

2011-11-15T16:25:00.000+11:00

On Saturday I flew the coop and headed down to Melbourne for a catch up with my old mate, Hannah. Han & I go way back, we met when we were 13! It was good to hang out with her and hear all her news. Like old friends do we have a natural ease with each other, we just pick up where we left off! Our lives are very different ie: her - city life, no kids, city job and me..well you know all about me!

I LOVED being in Fitzroy, the lovely familiar place where I grew up. I still know every corner, every crack in the footpath, but there is always new things to see too. I love the smell of the inner city in the early evening, jasmine & warm asphalt, cooking smells & perfume. And the twittering of city parrots, chirping and swooping through the streets.

I had an amazing find too!! Just as I turned into St David St I saw a large skip filled with building material. And sitting on top was an old toy dog. From a distance it looked like a real doggie, (that's my ageing eyes for you!) but as I got closer I saw it was a beautiful, vintage toy with only one ear, perched on top of the pile, obviously waiting for me! Oh my excitement. You will understand this if you are also a treasure hunter, a skip scrounger, an op shopper. I blame my dad really for passing on this gene, actually it's a pretty ace one to have. But anyway, back to The Dog. I wondered whether she had been found in a ceiling or under the floorboards, I guess I'll never know. I picked her up, tucked her under my arm and set off for the restaurant. (I did get some odd looks.) At the Fitzroy Commoner I sat my new friend under the table where she quietly rested, pleased I hope, in the knowledge that she was going to a happy retirement in Daylesford. I've called her Enid, it just seems to suit her. I'm in the middle of researching her history, the old label on her tummy says she comes from England. Imagine all the things she has seen in her time pre rubbish skip?

I stayed at my mum's house, a home full of interesting things. It's always a pleasure to stay there and I love the memories that seem to drift through my mind of days gone by in Fitzroy. Walking home from school past the Perfect Cheese factory (pretty stinky on Parmesan day), past the Glo Weave factory, past the old nonna's sitting on their front veranda, shelling peas, of the Milk Bar next door, the dirty old shops of Brunswick St (now such a thriving, bustling spot), oh the many memories..a happy time.

Back home things have been busy. Hence the lack of blogging lately.

It's that crazy end- of- year time that creeps up..lots on and not enough time. I'm working on keeping myself calm, it's not easy sometimes!

My kids are hanging out for the holidays and I am too. It's been a big year.

I've been working a little bit too, at a cafe. It's only a few hours but so far it's fun and I'm loving learning to make coffee again.

And I'm so excited as I have a new project!! Yes, I'm making doona covers/quilts from my collection of vintage linen. I want to make them super beautiful and perfect so I'm working really hard to get them right. So far I've soaked, washed and ironed a massive pile and right now I'm working on cutting them out. I hope to sell them through my shop and maybe in Melbourne too. Watch this space for

Dandelion Dreams!

I'm hoping that next time I post there will be some photo's of our new ducklings. According to my calculations they should be starting to hatch any day now. Oh wow!!! As you know they are just the cutest things, I can't wait! What's happening in your world? I hope you are happy and well, lovely ones.

See you soon xo

ps: special thanks to Char who helped with with these photo's that I managed to lose when downloading from my phone. Honey, you are the best xo

On my mind

2011-11-07T14:20:00.004+11:00

Spring: it's is in the air and with it of course, comes new life. On a corner near where we live is this beautiful foal and it's mum. How could I drive past and not stop to say hello?

Back at home Norman has been feeling frisky.

Not content with his two lady friends in the back yard,

he has been courting this fancy girl who lives next door. She has been popping over for a visit (and to check out what's on the menu at No.42). I don't think she knew she was going to have to deal with a lovestruck Norman. I've been giving him his marching orders..

here he is, trying to act all nonchalant but really he's high tailing it big time.

Spring has brought flowers, roses and blossoms by the bucket load, what a beautiful time of year. My vegie garden is slowly growing, the snow peas are climbing and it's all looking healthy and happy. Today I gave all the plants a little boost of worm farm stew and duck pond poo. Doesn't sound to appetising but the plants are smiling.

Endings: Firstly the sad news that Footscray's Steiner School is being shut down. Charlotte began at this school when it opened in 2001 and we all have such happy memories of her time there. It's a shame for all the families who have invested so much in this amazing school, I really feel for them. I was also sad today to hear the news that an old neighbour of ours from West Footscray days, Sarah Watt, has passed away. An incredibly talented film maker and just a really great person, what a loss.

Waiting: Quietly and patiently for the eggs to hatch. I'm counting the days now, shouldn't be too much longer.

Freddy is pacing, like the expectant father that he is. He has cranked up the daily assault on Daisy, who cops a real bashing from him. He continuously pecks at her and chases her around the garden. I guess he is guarding his girls but it can get a bit intense. Lucky Daisy isn't more aggressive or it might be curtains for Fred.

Watching: the girls get ready for their upcoming dance recital. I love Sunday's purple ballet costume,

and Rosie looks so sweet as a pink flower.

Planning: to make a big pile of bed covers out of the mound of vintage sheets I have stacked up in my sewing space. I'm soaking, washing, ironing them all and then the fun begins! I love Rosie and Sunday's quilts so much I've decided to make more for my shop. Yes, my little shop which has been sadly neglected lately. I hope to pop some bunnies in soon too. Oh boy, so many things to do, and never enough time.

Loving: the weather lately, sunny days and the lushness of Spring.

What's on your mind lately? Hope you have a happy week,

see you soon lovely friends xo

beautiful things

2011-10-28T14:46:00.003+11:00

This week our school community was lucky enough to go on a fund raising trip to Paul Bangay's amazing garden in Denver, near Glenlyon. This circular window is typical of the garden, quirky and surprising, clever and ordered.

Did I mention beautiful? Yep, it sure was. Lots of stunning views, spaces, shapes, colours,

and then there was the pool!

This picture doesn't really do the view justice, I really could have stood there all day looking out to the horizon. Although I may have had to also slip into that cool green water. OMG.

And here are three of us, waiting for champagne... :)

It was a great morning and everyone had a ball. Lots of chatting on the bus on the way home!

Yesterday was my mum's birthday! I had heaps of fun finding presents for her,

including these cool coasters made from coiled paper.

I found them, along with so many other beautiful things, at the very incredible shop, Junk Style, in Vincent St, Daylesford. If you are a visitor to our little town then do pop up the stairs and have a look. I guarantee you will find something special.

Like this red necklace,

which Mum loved.

It's so beautiful being out in the garden lately, I just love this time of year. The bees are buzzing,
the blossom is smelling sweet, vegies are planted, chooks are healthy and giving us their gorgeous eggs. And then there are the ducks..

two of them, have been sitting on a massive pile of eggs for a few days now. I went in yesterday to discover that their mum is also getting into the act. They're a close family.

So prepare yourselves for many duck shots and much duck talk over the next few weeks. I'm all clucky (or should that be quacky?) I'm so looking forward to the new ducklings hatching!! And possibly a couple of chicks too, oh boy.

They are so peaceful and beautiful and serene, I do love them so.

One last beautiful thing, a community project, something that is uniting people in the most wonderful way. This weekend there is to be a big party to celebrate the start of a community garden here in Daylesford!! Today I made a little contribution to the celebration, some bunting to decorate this amazing new shared space. Here it is hanging on my front fence, I'm really happy with how it turned out. I must admit it was fun getting back to some sewing too.

So that's me for today lovely ones. I hope your weekend is a happy one and that you find some truly beautiful things to brighten your days. See you soon xo

Lately

2011-10-24T10:26:00.000+11:00

We just had a really happy weekend! There was lots of sunshine here in Daylesford and so we were outside in the garden, hanging out and having fun.

The weather has been so lovely lately, doesn't it make a difference to how you feel?

Rosie has always been an outside girl, a cubby house girl, an apple tree tent kind of girl!

She's also been a cough and cold girl this week, all the kids have had a nasty bug that has brought on asthma and a million hankies. Not fun! I'm filling them with fruit though and hoping it passes quickly.

Lately I've been really enjoying using the app, instagram,. Are you into it too? I love the different filters and it's so convenient when I don't have my camera. My user name is dandelion66, come and say hi and then I'll visit you and your photo's too!

Did I tell you it was Charlotte's 19th birthday the other day? I went to the city to meet her for a movie (gold class..all to ourselves!) and then pressies and dinner. We gave her a sewing machine and a pretty sewing basket, which she loved. We had such a fun time, I just love to spend time with her. And we got to take photo's in a photo booth, a bit of a tradition with us. We've been doing this since she was a baby. My favourite one above is the bottom right :)

Hey!! Guess what??? Our two young ducks are about to be young mums! Platypus (the chocolate coloured one who we thought was a boy) and Josie and both sitting on about twenty eggs! Wow!

They are so divine. Look at those faces, how could you not have a duck in your life?

They seem to have a share/care arrangement and are taking turns sitting on the eggs. And then sitting together as well. The funny thing is there is at least one chook egg in the nest too! I can't wait to see if some chickies hatch as well.

I'm going to finish off today with an introduction to a very handsome fellow who I finally got to meet on Friday night. This is George, Charlotte's teddy who was made by the very talented Jess, of Teddy Bear's Wednesday. If you don't know Jess then you should really pop over to her blog and say hi.

She makes the most adorable and ace toys AND she is adorable and ace herself. The ginchiest really.

Anyway lovely people, I better get on with the day.

Sorry if I haven't been round to your place lately, I've just been swamped with so much going on.

But I hope to see you soon,

much love xo

A very HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Miss Pepper who turns 4 today. Woo hoo!!! xoxoxo

Up close and personal

2011-10-18T14:28:00.000+11:00

I'm excited today!

I'm off to Ballarat to have a school tour of the secondary school that Lucy would like to go to in 2012.

I'm excited because it's going to be a beautiful shiny day,

and I just love driving through the country on blue sky days.

I'm excited because Tom is helping to make me a new vegie garden, I can't wait to start planting!

I'm excited because this week it's Charlotte's birthday and I get to see her for dinner to celebrate.

I'm excited too because Mark is back from his trip to France! It's so good to have him home, and I'm loving the beautiful gift box filled with French perfume he gave me too.

And last but not least, I'm SUPER excited about being interviewed over at Flowerpress today. It was fun answering all Susie's questions but I did get a bit stuck on describing myself in three words. Susie is such a lovely & talented person and I adore her visiting her space. Have you read her Show & Tell interviews? I had a long read last night and found out about so many interesting people. Pop over and have a look here if you have time.

Hope some exciting things are happening in your world! Have a happy week lovely ones xo

Spring colour

2011-10-14T11:06:00.001+11:00

Today I have much to do and not a lot of time.

So I'm going to let these photo's do the talking...here is what I've been up to this week. I've been...

enjoying beautiful roses which always make me smile and distract me from the mess!

Cooking - pasta, roast vegies, Mars Bars slice (mmm...), spicy chicken kebabs, quesadilla's...

..eating juicy red radishes..

and way too many olives at mum's.

Loving Rosies' new purple glasses,

sunshine through the trees and some beautiful Spring weather (about time),

Watching Norman peeking through the branches of the quince tree.

Admiring the flowers in my neighbours garden,

and checking out her new bee keepers outfit!

and her pretty house and garden as she prepares for her son's 21st birthday on Sunday. Fun!

I'm looking forward to drinking champagne and celebrating with this lovely family too. Theres lots to look forward to at the moment, Mark returning home tomorrow, a school tour with Lucy on Tuesday,

Charlotte's 19th birthday next week!, the Swiss Italian Festival which kicks off next weekend,

an art show opening on Thursday night, being a guest blogger at one of my favourite blogs very soon, boy October is a busy month!

Are you busy too? I hope you have lots of happy things coming up,

it's such a fun time of year.

Have a happy weekend lovely ones,

see you soon xo

Home

2011-10-05T16:43:00.000+11:00

Home where little faces greet us.

Where the shells are a reminder,

of the dream that was Fiji.

Where our ducks wander under the trees in the Spring sunshine,

where branches are full of apple blossom,

cherry blossom,

and quince flowers, full of buzzing bees.

Home, where I find a pile of chook eggs,

and spend hours unbraiding the many tiny plaits that were made a million miles from here, under a palm tree by the sea.

Home where I bump into lovely friends at the supermarket, where I sleep happily in my own bed, where the children seem more relaxed as they all recover from the bug we picked up while travelling. Home where it's quiet and peaceful and green. Lately I've been thinking about whether we should make this lovely town our home forever or perhaps move somewhere bigger that may offer the kids more opportunities. As they grow I wonder if there will be enough for them here. Do you live in a small town and think about these things too? All the driving and planning and lack of things to do can sometimes get me down. But I do love this town, and it's people, it would be hard to leave, so much of our lives have happened here. Anyway, perhaps these are thoughts we all have from time to time, maybe I'm just in that kind of space right now.

What are you thinking about lately? I hope all is well with you dear friends, see you soon xo

Fiji time

2011-09-30T18:37:00.001+10:00

When we talked about going to Fiji earlier in the year, the first thing the girls wanted to know was, CAN WE GET OUR HAIR BRAIDED????"

And, you guessed it, they did! Well so far Lucy, Rosie and Char have (Bill has one, mini braid!), Sunday is booked in for tomorrow. The lovely hair braiding women sit under a hut by the sea and braid all day, they are such hard workers!

(Bill looks like he's been drinking too much Kava... :) )

Speaking of which I heard today that over 800 people are employed at this resort, amazing! It's the biggest employer in this region and provides jobs for many locals. Everyone we have spoken to seems to love working here, one guy, Johnny, has been here for 39 years!

We got to experience a little local culture the other night at the amazing fire dancing show.

We ate local food and watched the very talented men and women dancers who also somehow got us up on stage dancing too! Very funny!

It was a blast. And also good for the kids to learn a little more about another culture,

we had hoped to visit a local village too but have run out of time.

At times I have felt a little awkward here and very aware of our privileged status as white westerners on holiday. I have tried to remind myself that this resort employs locals and provides other benefits to the local community, but it still feels weird being waited on.

The staff here are so warm and friendly, and their relaxed ways and generosity has made our holiday very special. I'd highly recommend Fiji as a place to visit and have fun in the sun. Everything runs on Fiji Time round here, which basically means it happens when it happens!! I hope I can take a bit of Fiji Time home with me :)

One of the best things about where we are staying is that the beach is right next to the pool.

We have been happily wandering between the two.

Woo hoo!

You can see what I mean in this photo of Lucy jumping in the pool, the beach is just behind the palm trees.

I've heard that the weather in Melbourne is pretty ordinary and that there was a massive storm, is that right? Sorry for all these beachy shots, I"m not trying to rub it in, truly! I'll be back there again soon,
suffering along with the rest, and I'm not looking forward to it one bit! Well, that's not quite true, I will be glad to be home.

Mum, I hope you've enjoyed the photo's, and I do hope you are feeling better.We are missing you.

Mark, if you happen to see this post, we miss you too. It seems like forever since we saw you, xo

Oh well, better go and get the kids to bed,

see you soon lovely friends xo

Bula!!

2011-09-29T18:47:00.001+10:00

Greetings from Fiji! I can't believe we are really here! The days before we headed off on our holiday were busy ones, organising our pets, packing, then a crazy whirl of dance rehearsals & the South Street competition. Sunday, above with Bill, had so much fun, I haven't heard yet who won their round but it doesn't matter, she had a ball anyway!

The day before we said goodbye to Mark who was jetting off to France. Mark teaches French at a secondary college and was lucky enough to be going on the school trip to France.

But we have been lucky too, and were all so excited to finally get on the plane on Monday, check out Char in the background here, looking very annoyed by her little brother :)

How fun it was flying up through the white fluffy clouds, away from the cold and into the warmth of the Polynesian islands. After we arrived in Suva we took a funny old wonky bus that wound it's way through the dirt roads and past cows and small fires, villages and cane fields to our resort.

I'll be honest with you, the first day was tough. We were tired, cranky, there was a mix up with our rooms and we were also next to a noisy restaurant. Once our rooms were sorted it all got a lot better, we are now in a fantastic room near the pool.

And lets face it, that's where we've been spending most of our time!

It's just a little walk from our room,

to the glorious pool.

And then a hop, skip and jump to this amazing beach. Today I watched lots of white fish swimming through the clear water, and collected shells, swam and floated and relaxed. Ahhh....!

These photo's are mainly for my mum, who sadly missed out on this trip due to illness. Mum, we wish you were here with us, we are so sad you couldn't come. I hope you enjoy the photo's, I'll post some more tomorrow. And to everyone out there, hope you are having fun with the ones you love. See you soon xo

renewal

2011-09-20T15:00:00.003+10:00

Recently I received a driving license renewal form in the mail, time for a new license. It took me back ten years to when I last renewed it, when I was pregnant with Bill. I drove to the Sunshine Vic Roads feeling fat & puffy and frumpy and boy does it show in my license photo.! I remember thinking, great, I have to suffer with this photo for ten years! And all of a sudden, ten years have flown by and I get to say goodbye to that pregnant me, which is kind of bitter sweet. I'm waiting for my new license to arrive, I wonder what the new me looks like?

This got me thinking not so much about how I look but more about all the things that have happened in those ten years. It's a big chunk of time isn't it? I big chunk of life.

Ten years ago I didn't know that I would be living in beautiful Daylesford, in a pretty yellow house with a lovely garden.

How could I have known I would fall in love with chooks and ducks? That we would have fresh eggs daily, fruit trees, a vegie patch, flowers, fresh air, sunshine and bitter winters.

That I would stand outside at night and smell that good country air and feel such freedom from the noise & bustle of the city.

I didn't know then that I would have a boy called Billy who would be a little brother for Lucy & Charlotte. Or that I would have two more girls, Sunday & Rosie. Who would have thought?

Ten years ago I was nervous about having a third baby, but thrilled to be having a son who was born just before Christmas. Ten years ago I was in my thirties, I had dark brown hair & wore red lipstick & I lived in Footscray.

I didn't know then that we would sadly lose both Mark's parents to cancer. His mother at the start of my pregnancy with Sunday, and his father a week before she was born. A sad & difficult time that we will never forget. A time made less painful by the arrival of our little girl, such a sweet & adorable baby.

Ten years ago I had no clue that my Dad would sell a precious family home where many memories were made. That my brother would move to Tasmania with his own family. That my mum would buy an old church in Hepburn and become such a lovely part of our every day lives.

Ten years ago I would have been so happy to know that I would have such good and loving friends. That I would meet some beautiful people who I adore, who ride this crazy roller coaster of life with me.

How could I know that I would still be with Mark? Of course I had hoped so but anything can happen. How lucky we are to have each other & our children who we love so much.

In the ten years that have passed I have grown older and maybe a bit more relaxed. I still stress sometimes, like us all, but I have slowed down a bit too and try not to worry about the little things. I've brought up four toddlers and a teenager, and now the four are at school & Charlotte is discovering the world as an adult. Some days I really feel the challenge of parenting, it's such a huge responsibility. But every day I also feel so grateful to have them in my life, they make me laugh, they give the best cuddles, their creativity & freshness inspires me & their love & fun fills my life with happiness.

Ten years ago I didn't know I would be addicted to Grand Designs, that I would actually like olives, that I would love photography so much, that I could make bunnies out of blankets, that I would have a blog! I didn't know I would have just had a lovely night away at the Windsor Hotel with my beloved,

or that he would be flying off to France on Saturday. A billion, million, trillion other things have happened over the last ten years, many thoughts, events, happy times & sadnesses.

I didn't know ten years ago that a lovely family we are so fond of would lose their beautiful mum & wife. Her death reminds me daily to make the most of each moment, to love my family, make plans, to laugh & to live life, to really be in it,

to treasure it.

I wonder what you were doing ten years ago? Do you feel like it's gone quickly?

I hope all is well in your world of today,
take care &
see you soon, lovely friends xo

Random beauty

2011-09-14T12:53:00.002+10:00

I wonder when you pop by to visit me do you say to yourself,

oh no, not another chook shot?! You know, I just can't help myself,

I love our crazy family of pets. Norman is such a handsome fella,

and how could you not admire his crest and feathered pantaloons?

When I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by life all I have to do is go outside

and the back yard gang make me feel better.

Inside is a happening place too, pet wise. Have you said hi to Shorty lately?

There he is, look closely, he's waving!

Bill assures me he actually does wave his little flippers if you wave at him, he is a very social turtle.

Besides being all about animals this week I've also managed to actually complete a bunny!! Woo! It's been a while.

This little ballerina was an order for a lovely girl who is turning 12 this week. I do hope she likes her. I'm so happy with the way she turned out, although that tutu was a little bit of a drama! So fiddly..

Speaking of beautiful girls, I had fun with Sunday yesterday, getting her outfit ready for Arts Night at school.

She was playing Red Riding Hood's mum, and looked so cute in her flowery apron. Arts Night went really well. Sunday & Rosie did group songs and plays with their classes, Lucy sang with two friends and Billy played his original song, Snow Cap.

I was so proud of them all. It was also great hearing the other kids play their individual pieces, and watching the senior room do Thriller was amazing!

What are you up to today? I'm working through my list...hopefully I'll get to tick off a few things. Is your life a bit crazy and hectic sometimes? Mine feels a bit like that lately. In amongst it all though, I love the way this life of ours is full of random beauty and precious moments. I guess it's just a matter of making sure you stop and find them.

Hope you find something special in your Wednesday,

much love & see you soon xo

Celebrating

2011-09-12T21:10:00.001+10:00

Here are a few shots from our weekend.

Billy & Lucy celebrated their First Communion and it was a really lovely day.

I was so proud of both of them.

Bill did a fantastic reading, he is much braver than me!

I think they both felt pretty special, I hope this part of their life journey is something they look back on with happiness too. I hope it gives them a sense of belonging & community, both of which are so important in my own life.

It was a real weekend of celebrations! Rosie headed up to the Convent Gallery for Isabella's amazing 6th birthday party! Marija did a wonderful job organising & setting up, the table looked spectacular!

Back at home we also had a little high tea party for Bill & Lucy. It's one of our favourite things to do.

The menu consisted of cucumber sandwiches, meringues, cupcakes, strawberries and tiny sausage rolls. Oh, and of course pink lemonade! Yum!

Not a crumb was left!

Well it's the start of a new week & we are getting closer to the school holidays. I'm feeling a little frazzled as there is much to do beforehand. Art Night tomorrow night, Footy & Netball Presentation night on Thursday night, a jazz ballet competition, organising someone to look after the pets while we are away,

blah, blah, blah! Oh and helping Mark to get ready for his trip to France of course.

I'm sure it will all work out. Tomorrow I am going to start writing LISTS!

If only I was a more organised person :)

Anyway, hope you enjoyed the photo's,

here's another one to make you smile.

Much love xo

happy

2011-09-09T14:25:00.002+10:00

Ten things, in no parrticular order, that are making me feel happy today.

1: A wonderful walk through the bush with my doggies. Here they are, wagging away,

on the rock at The Top of The World. Below them is a massive drop and all around an amazing panoramic view.

2: Old houses, I just love them! This ramshackle cottage that I walked past recently has such personality

and this is the side view of a gorgeous local house that I have fallen in love with. And, gulp, it's for sale...

3: Dinner with Charlotte last night in the big, bad city. Oh so lovely to be with this beautiful daughter of mine. Thanks Char for your company, the laughs, the de briefs and for paying for dinner!! I can't wait to see you again on Sunday.

4: I was so proud of Rosie who gave her birthday money to 'the poor people' and received a certificate from St Vinnies. It's important to us that our kids learn about social justice and grow up with an understanding that it is important to help others. Rosie's twenty dollars went towards feeding a family, she was so happy and proud of herself too.

5: This amazing vintage cross & chain finally arrived yesterday after taking four weeks to arrive from America. It belonged to a soldier who fought in WW1, survived and went on to become a barber. I bought it for Bill for his First Communion this Sunday, and I'm so happy to be giving him something unique, and special, just like him.

6: Our school celebrated Fathers Day yesterday and Mark was there to receive his cute pet rock (with glasses and a bow tie) and lots of love from his kids. It was good to be in a room full of Dad's and watch their faces as the kids read out funny & sweet things about them. A truly beautiful celebration and a great reminder of how important Dad's are.

7: A shopping trip with sweet Lucy who was thrilled to get two new pairs of shoes on the same day. Her feet have been growing so much, she's now in a ladies size 8! I loved spending some time with her on our own, she is such a cutie pie and such a loving daughter.

8: Hanging with the G.P's really brightens my day.

They are just so damn adorable. And they are good listeners.. :)

9: A fun night at book club this week, being with some great women, chatting, laughing,

discussing ideas and life.

10: And finally, I'm so excited, happy & grateful that in a few weeks we will be on holidays!!

I can't wait for some warmth, some sunshine and sea,

to be with my gang and having fun.

What are you happy about lately?

Have a great weekend everybody,

lots of love & see you soon xo

Monday

2011-09-05T14:33:00.001+10:00

Isn't this little dilly bag the cutest thing ever? I just love it. When the Grade 1/2's held up their bags at assembly recently I remember thinking what a fantastic project it was. It gives the children some understanding of Aboriginal culture and also a chance to enjoy weaving. Kids love making things don't they? And Sunday did a great job with her bag. I love it so much, I'm going to hang it up somewhere special.

As you may know, if you read my blog regularly, it has been an emotional time around here lately. So on the weekend it was good to do some practical things, like putting together Bill's new bunk bed! Mark & Bill did the main part and then I helped finish off.

Needless to say there followed many bunk related hijinks, sleep overs, planned sleepovers, games and a fair bit of carry on! It's funny how with all our kids this is our first bunk! Bill is loving it and has settled in very happily (once he kicked all his sisters out..)

During the bunk putting together saga we managed to make a few mistakes (thanks Michelle for your emergency drill work) so we headed to the hard ware shop on Saturday to rectify them. Luckily we spotted some ace Blundstones and Bill now has his first official pair!! He wants to be a builder when he grows up so I'm sure they will be the first of many. I'm hoping they might fit me when he outgrows them..!

What do you reckon Bill?

On a different note I have been finding lots of prettiness in my garden lately.

These two pink flowers are pretty special and so are the gorgeous friends who have been so loving to me lately. I have felt so down over the last few weeks, and yet I have never felt alone. Thank you to all my sisters out there, in our community, at school, old mates & new, and in blog land, who have listened, hugged, emailed and been there for me. The loss in our community, of a friend and mother, has been felt by all, and each of us has been affected. It's been a difficult time. If anything good can come of such sadness it has been the love and compassion that has been shared, and the friendships strengthened & treasured.

Have you told a friend how much they mean to you recently?

Our weekend had some challenges, but the sunshine was so lovely and I found we were outside more. yay! I also had Saturday at home while Mark took the girls to ballet. It was nice to have a change and hang out with Lucy & Bill.

And you know me, I was happiest when hanging out my washing on the good old Hills Hoist! Such a relief after draping things all over the house to dry.

All is good in Duck Land. I'm hoping for some more ducklings sometime soon.

And Lolly Pop has gone all broody over six unfertilised eggs. What to do? Break it to her gently?

Perhaps I could find some fertilised ones and sneak them under her. I do love little chickies.

So there you go, a Monday ramble! I'll finish up with a shout out to all the great Dad's out there. I hope you had a fabulous Father's Day! Mark received some beautiful hand made gifts and some pretty special cards. I love my two boys, and here they are, both so smiley and gorgeous.

Hope you have a great week dear friends,

see you soon xo

squeak squeak!

2011-08-29T15:53:00.000+10:00

Today the sun is shining again, how lucky we have been lately. So many blue sky days.

It's Monday & I found myself alone today after two weeks of having

at least one child home every day, sick.

Well I wasn't really alone,

not if you count the three chooks, one rooster, four ducks, two dogs, one rabbit, one turtle and now...

three guinea pigs!

Meet baby Milo, who belongs to my 'twins', Sunday & Billy.

And the very beautiful, Fluff, who is very much loved by Lucy (who is sharing her with Char)

Fluff is so amazing and cute, she has a mini mohawk with a splodge of black in it.

She is also very calm and gentle, she sat so quietly as I took these photo's, I think she quite enjoyed it!

She has one gorgeous blue eye and one brown. She is quite a fancy girl.

Rosie has the teensiest baby who she has called Cutie Pie.

She is only the size of a big mouse, and so adorable. She and Milo are sisters. The kids have been loving the newest family members, they carry them around in little baskets where ever they go. Especially Rosie who is totally smitten with Cutie Pie.

Now I'm starting to wonder how we will ever be able to go away on holidays! We have so many pets. I might have to find someone to come and stay & mind them in September...would you like to?

Anyway, I'm hoping there will be no more colds or flus in our house this winter. Lots of fruit will help keep the bugs away.

And a big thank you for your lovely messages last week, it's so good to know you care. I haven't been so good at popping around to see you lately but I will as soon as the dust settles.

How is your household going lately? Are you all well and having fun? The school term is slowly winding down, four weeks to go, I can't wait! Have a great week lovely friends, see you soon xo

Today..

2011-08-26T11:29:00.005+10:00

...I have been thinking of a friend, a beautiful mother who I will miss.

In the days that have followed her passing I have been warmed by smiles, by the late winter sun, by the compassion of others, the care & love of good people.

I've been looking and finding pockets of happiness,

little rays of hope & life,

and they are there, everywhere, if I look.

In my beautiful children, and their

cuddles and laughter, in friends whose strength

and humanity shine through,

in the spring blossom, the sunny days, the chirping birdies,

and in my dear duckies who never cease to make me happy.

Today I'm thinking how lucky I am to live where I do, in such a wonderful & loving community where people truly care and look after each other. Where we can cry and laugh and be part of each others lives. I have a lot to be grateful for.

On Tuesday night I looked up into the dark sky, lit by a million stars, and I'm sure I saw the brightest one twinkling down at me, watching over us.

May your weekend be full of love & laughter & sunshine & hope,

see you soon,

lovely friends xo

grateful

2011-08-20T17:30:00.000+10:00

This week, more than ever, I am so grateful, every day.

I'm thankful for some sunshine after days of rain,

that seemed to fill our small world with mud, that left me feeling flat and uninspired.

How beautiful to see our little wet chooks,

sitting in the sun.

I'm so grateful to wake up this morning,

to sunlight through my window,

and the knowledge

that I have so much love in my life.

This week I've been reflecting on so many things,

it's been a tough week, a week of tears & little bursts of sweetness.

Rosie wearing big persons glasses,

and some gorgeous flowers from a lovely & thoughtful friend. Thanks so much Sue.

I loved taking promotional photo's of local superstars Caleb & Leda. Have you heard/seen them yet? If you haven't then I'm sure you will, they are amazing and talented and wonderful.

I"m so grateful to have had a kiss and hug, a brief but special moment with a beautiful friend,

to have been to dinner with some lovely mates whose laughter rang out into the night,

to drive through the country side under the twinkling sun and watch the fields turning green before my eyes. I'm grateful for every minute, every sparkling moment & for the friendship of those I hold dear. And that includes you, thank you so much for your comments & your thoughts, it means a lot to me.

I hope you are having a happy weekend, go outside! Smell the blossoms, feel the sunlight warm against your skin, cuddle your special ones and I'll see you soon, lovely friends xo

On loving & letting go

2011-08-15T14:50:00.003+10:00

My 18 year old daughter informs me recently that she is going on a random road trip, at night, with her friend, to the border of Victoria. A five hour drive. Just for fun. That they will be sleeping in the car, listening to music, getting away from it all, a real adventure.

I stare blankly. Wanting to say…DON”T GO!

In my head I’m seeing massive speeding trucks, slippery dark roads, scary nameless predatory men, the vast, empty beyond and two young girls hurtling through the darkness. Instead I tell her she is sitting with a woman who once was 18 too & hitchhiked to Sydney with her boyfriend, at night, on a whim.

I also tell her to be careful, to please call me, text, tell me you are ok. And I find myself thinking that such a big part of loving seems to be about letting go.

Our little guinea pig, who has been with us for almost five years, turned up her little toes this week. I buried her in the garden beneath the camellia's. There were prayers and thoughts and memories to share as we remembered how she her life had been woven into ours. All the birthdays that passed, the milestones, the summers. And of course the little squeaky sounds she made. Now she is resting peacefully after a happy retirement in the sunny front yard. Fed on tasty vegie scraps, talked to and patted, & loved. We were right there with her till the end.

My son told me recently of something that happened at school. Not to tell anyone else, to keep it to myself. And he’s sad and brave and nine years old. While he tells me how he felt - how he feels, I'm getting teary & sad too, but I can see that he is strong. And already moving on.

My 11 year old is having some friendship struggles, some issues with self esteem. She is growing up and I can see her changing every day. I try to support her, to guide her and sometimes it’s hard. I wonder how to help her through this phase. She is not a little girl anymore but she’s not a teenager either. At times she is confused, unsure. I wonder what is ahead of her, what joys, what pain. Her blue eyes will see a whole lifetime of challenges and relationships; I wish for her everything & more. I hope she finds many adventures, fulfilment, acceptance, much colour & fun, her own life, & of course, love.

It’s three years next month since the death of my friend's seven year old son. His beautiful and heartbreaking funeral is forever etched in my mind. The pain of his loss, the tattoo of his name, in his Grade One hand writing, on her arm, the memories and living with it all…

and living with the knowledge that I have my kids, that life is unfair.

My baby is a big girl now. She can almost read, she can run off to school without looking back, she running into a new world while I wave goodbye.

And she wakes me this morning with a huge hug and the rushed words, “Mummy I cried for you last night, when you were gone, because I just love you so much” Her dear little soft face, her cuddly six year old body snuggled next to mine, I’d love to capture this moment in a bottle, and keep it forever.

And then there’s me. Trying to find some space in my life, wondering where it will lead me. Wondering how do I fit my own dreams and me, into our family. I’m weighing things up, thinking about opportunites, asking for help, floating, not cleaning the house enough and trying to juggle it all. I’m thinking of my children & Mark but I’m also thinking about me. I guess this year is a weird one for me, nothing is quite clear and maybe that’s ok for now.

What’s happening with you lately? Are you pondering your own life?

Whatever you are up to I hope you are enjoying some sunshine and of course, much love.

See you soon sweet friends xo

Going bush

2011-08-12T10:20:00.002+10:00

On Wednesday day Billy & Lucy went off on school camp and I came home feeling a little flat. The dogs were jumping at the back door saying "take us for a walk!!" so I did just that. I took my camera along and decided to play Vic's photo game at the same time. What an adventure we had.

This is where I started off. On a walking track that leads from the Twin Bridges to Lake Daylesford. It's a beautiful track, and very muddy after a big rain. The track leads you along one side of the creek and then back along the other side.

After walking a little ways it was time for a 180 turn and here I found a beautiful, green mossy patch, just like a fairy garden, with a mysterious tunnel or outlet. Perhaps that is where the fairies live.

I kept walking, all the while hearing bird song and smelling the freshness of the bush. Can you see the full creek flowing?

I passed this amazing stone wall. The Daylesford region has many such stone walls, someone told me recently that traditionally women constructed the walls, searching for the right stones in paddocks and by creeks.

Now for something blue. The sky was definitely grey, not a trace of blue. The gums were vaguely blue but not really. Hmmm....

Suddenly! Two patches of blue at once. This beautiful old rotunda, built around the 1930's when this little area was a hub of social activity. When Lake Daylesford was first built the Springs around it became a place of gathering, of community singing, swimming & socialising. Sadly now it is quite desolate, with just the hint, a whisper, of days gone by.

Max kindly checked out this pump, just to make sure it was actually blue. Thanks Max. (Never mind that dogs are colour blind..he is quite an exceptional boy)

Ok, left turn and 50 - 70 paces...

some amazing graffiti from 1940. Looks like a whole bunch of Arbuckle's

had some fun at the Springs. Wonder if it was Joy and her brothers?

Or maybe her sisters...her brothers may have been away at war. Isn't it amazing to see this writing, after so many years? I love the shape of the letters from that era.

Such a lot of history on this walk today.

Now I'm walking again and looking for a 7 or an 11.

On a wall near one of the springs I find more graffiti,

and what looks like an 11, just above the middle heart.

Taking the first left I find another old building.

Time for a sit down while Daisy frolics through the green grass. I wonder what this little hut is/was for?

Choosing to walk straight ahead I can see it was once an engine room, a pump house of sorts.

And inside I find this guy, looking surprised to see me!

It must get lonely sometimes, now that his working life is over. I hope as the sparrows

fly in and out, making their nests, that they bring him news of the world.

Now I'm looking for an archway, or something architecturally interesting...

and there it is! A lovely old stone bridge, made with crazy paving. Time to cross that bridge and head back along the creek.

After 20 minutes or so of walking along the twisting, turning track I suddenly see my car through the trees, on the other side of the creek. Can you see it too? I also realise that I have to cross this creek...and there is no bridge! Uh oh..there's no way around it but to walk across the knee deep icy cold water, in my boots and tights and trackies. Cold!!! Ahh! The dogs hop in the back of the car & I squelch in and set off for home and a nice hot cup of tea. Phew, what an adventure. I felt like I had visited a fun park from the past, a pretty ghost town hidden in the bush. I loved walking through the tall gums, all alone except for the dogs and the birds, and the creatures that scurried & hid beneath the scrub.

Thanks Vic for inspiring me to go on this trek! It was a lot of fun.

Oh and Daisy & Max say thanks too.

Monday

2011-08-08T09:15:00.001+10:00

Lately I have been taking photo's on the way to Ballarat. It's a well worn trip but it never bores me, there are always so many things to look at, to love. Especially houses, old ones in particular. I often look at this one, above, which I think is one of my favourites. I love to think of it's history, of the people who lived here long ago. Imagine the cold winters they had...

And I"ve been noticing these two as well. Two cute piggies who came running over to greet me at the fence. Funny.

On Saturday I headed in to Ballarat early to continue the training I began the week before. As the country side slowly woke up after a cold, cold night, beautiful mist floated over the trees, and hills.

It was another interesting session and I feel like I've learnt a lot. Much of which can be related to my every day life and own family, not just to foster care. The sadness & challenges faced by so many families is pretty confronting, it has given me much to think about. I'm not sure where this training will lead me, but it has been a really positive thing to do.

At home, where life is stable and secure, we loved having Charlotte home for the night, to hang with us & have dinner & chats. Check out her famous fish finger 'Combo'...hmmm :)

Yesterday Billy & Lucy set off for a full day of netball & footy at Spring Bank. For the Under 12's it is their version of finals, several games are played until one team ultimately wins.

The girls did well, Lucy's game has improved so much since the beginning of the season. Sadly they didn't win but tried hard and played like a team. Bill's team went on to win the Under 12 Lightning Premiership, after not losing a game the whole season!! He was pretty happy when he got home. Dirty, muddy, but smiling from ear to ear.

Rosie has a cold. So today she ate oranges, sucked on vitamin C and drank lots of water. She is staying home today, it will be nice to spend the day with her, just like the old days!

It's lovely to feel the seasons changing. Although we have a fair bit of cold weather left to go I'm loving the little signs of Spring. Our chooks are laying (woo hoo) and all around there are buds and flowers,
birds and green, green grass.

Have you heard about Vic's photo game?

It sound like fun, I"m going to give it a go. It might take me past some of my favourite

places. Like Jack's garage doors with their colourful birds.

Or maybe past this mysterious hedge and gate.

I've never seen anyone going in, or out. Spooky...

I love an adventure so I'm quite excited. Speaking of which, it's Monday! A new day, a new week! Who knows what will happen. Hope you have a happy one, are you doing anything new or interesting?

See you soon, lovely friends xo

Finally six!

2011-08-03T11:36:00.001+10:00

Ok so today my baby turned 6!! She hopped in to bed with me this morning and we had the best birthday snuggle, what a great way to start the day. The sun was peeking through the window, making patterns through the lace, outside the chookies were clucking happily and Pepper, our geriatric guinea pig was warming herself in the morning rays. All the kids came in and wished their sister a happy birthday, cuddles all round.

Today I feel like I"m finally coming out of a grey fog, having not slept well for a week or so. Tiredness is not a good thing is it?

Today I"m wanting to remember exactly what Rosie is like at 6. So here are some things I know about her

She loves to play. With her dolls (new doll Ruthie above), with her friends, making up games about all sorts of things, pets, babies, cool girls, sisters, spies...Rosie likes pizza and spaghetti, strawberries & water melon. I love the way she calls raspberries 'larsberries' still, I hope she always does.

Rosie loves purple and pink, she likes to write letters, stick things together, make games & cubbies,

ride her bike, eat lollies, have surprises & Icey Pole Day.

Rosie can be excitable, emotional, colourful, loud, challenging, kind, thoughtful, cranky,helpful & sweet.

Rosie likes babies, and ballet and dressing up. She loves summer, snow & stories. She is good at doing cartwheels & drawing & making friends. Although we call her Rosie her real name is Rosabella.

I was so happy to be pregnant with Rosie, although I was quite sick near the end. I had a difficult time during my previous pregnancy, when Marks parents both died during the same year, & we moved our family of six to the country. So it was such a joy to have the space & time to enjoy a new baby. I also knew she was my last baby so I made the most of every second. I really loved watching her grow, her personality develop. I breathed in all the good baby smell, fed her till she was almost three and celebrated every milestone. Today I can sit back and enjoy her moving out of that time too, out of toddler hood & pre school and into the next phase of her life. She is a gorgeous girl to be around and fills our house with fun & laughter & love. All children are so precious aren't they?

Happy Birthday Rosie! Hope you have a wonderful day. See you soon lovely friends xo

Birthday girl

2011-08-01T12:26:00.000+10:00

Yesterday our Rosie celebrated her 6th birthday, what a fun day it was.

In the morning we iced her cake, an old favourite, The Smartie Rainbow Cake!

Rosie dressed up in her princess dress, we loaded up the car with kids and food and set off to nearby Kyneton where we had booked a fantastic party place called Pass the Parcel.

Upstairs, above a shop, the party went of with a bang! Lots of games, dancing and fun.

I had my support team there, Lucy was so helpful, setting up the table, looking after the kids, just wonderful

It was a real blast, the kids loved all the singing & stories and the puppet show. Rosie was pretty excited about this part and kept jumping up and grabbing the frog puppet! Hope he's feeling ok today...

It was fun watching the kids faces, aren't they at an adorable age?

Sunday joined in too and looked pretty cute in her pirate outfit.

The kids and Mark did a great job getting the food all sorted, we missed Charlotte though, celebrating just isn't the same without her.

I loved the party space, the room was set up so sweetly. Rosie had a lovely day and she is lucky to have such a gorgeous group of friends. Birthdays are often a time of reflection aren't they?

Even though Rosie doesn't turn 6 until Wednesday I've been thinking a lot about when she was born,

and all the things that have happened since. The happy days, the chaos & the love.

So today I'm just catching up with myself after a huge weekend. (I also just managed to delete some birthday photo's off my camera! Oh no. Does anyone know if there is a way to get them back?) Feeling a bit tired & teary actually.

But anyway, life is good and we are so happy & grateful to have our Rosie in our lives. She is a real character, a real fire cracker of a girl, showering us with sparkles of excitement, life, colour, love, fun, ideas and endless kisses & hugs. She is such a little treasure. I'm sure I'll be full of more tales of Rosieness on Wednesday, see you then xo

Roses & goodness

2011-07-26T14:53:00.001+10:00

Thinking about the lovely treasures I found at the op shop in Kyenton yesterday. Lucy & I found ourselves wandering happily through the sweetest oppie ever. The cheery sounds of the op shop ladies chattering away filled the space reminding me how very important it is to belong, to share our daily lives with others. This little jug winked at me from a shelf, hello I said, come live with me,

and I will love you & fill you with roses.

While Lucy looked at the fabric I turned the next corner and found this dear little box.

Full of coloured knitting needles and sewing bits.

So sweet.

We also bought a spotty bag and some fabric for Lucy.

On the way out we looked in the window and marvelled

at the display of gorgeous old plates & cups.

Hiding near the edge was Mrs Cow Jug.

Oh! What a thrill! My Nan had a jug just like this

so of course it had to come home with us too.

We scooted back inside in time to see a woman collecting the money she had

dropped on the floor earlier, lots of oohing and ahhing re the

kindess of the Finder (so true), we paid our $3 and walked

out with a spotty bag full of roses & goodness.

Feeling....the happy weight of the many things I am juggling at the moment. You know that good feeling that comes when you are satisfied with your lot? When you are challenged but not despairing?

That's me right now. Lots on the go and all feels right.

Partly I'm happy as although I'm not working at the moment I feel like I'm contributing to some really worthwhile things, besides looking after our family. I'm enjoying the Oral History project I'm involved with, my involvement at our school is very satisfying & I'm nervously looking forward to the Foster Care training I will be doing this weekend.

Loving watching iview and ironing at the same time! Weird but true. Today I snuck in Grand Designs, one of my favourite shows. Have you watched this one? So inspiring.

And, I wrote a poem today. Did I ever tell you I majored in poetry while studying Professional Writing & Literature? It's a long time ago now, and I only dabble in poetry these days. It felt good to write one today, I was thinking about my Dad & the words just came. Maybe I'll show you sometime.

Also loving..these two new cardi's knitted by Mum. If only I had the time to make bunnies...I can't seem to find it lately. Sometimes I just have to just have faith that a pocket, a little window will open and somehow there will be time to sew. Loving too, Room by Emma Donoghue. Have you read it? I remember reading about it and thinking I wasn't that interested, but once I picked it up I couldn't put it down.

Feeling...a lot of love for my family. A little demented by my family. Aware that I have a party to organise, meals to cook, washing to do, tempers to sooth, lists to write. Also feeling lucky that we are all well and warm and safe in our little house in Daylesford. The sun is coming out now, time to go and feed the ducks.

Hope all is well in your part of the world,

what are you feeling, loving, thinking about today?

See you soon, dear friends xo

Weekend

2011-07-25T11:02:00.001+10:00

Freddie had been loving this wet winter we are having. There is a lot of leaf snuffling going on in Duck Land lately, and much puddle grazing & exploring of mud, with beak. Just after his family hatched out this year someone told me that a large lay of duck eggs means a wet winter will follow. Remember, they had 13 ducklings! Seems that particular old wives tale was spot on. Another bit of folk lore I heard recently was that your hair will fall out in chestnut season! Which is weird because mine did just that. Not all of it, but a lot! Luckily it's growing back now. Do you know any weird wives tales? Funny how they are called that. I wonder if there are any husband tales out there...

Speaking of hair... Rosie found a wig in the dress up box and wore it all of yesterday.

The effect was strangely unsettling & compelling at the same time!

How was your weekend? We had a good one, not too busy, just right. On Saturday after we got home from ballet I had some time in the garden. Raking, tidying up the beds, putting new hay in for the duckies and chooks. Fun! I found a stash of chook eggs so now I know they are laying again I can keep an eye out. I love having fresh eggs, it always seems so weird to have to buy them. The next day the kids and I sorted out Bill's Lego. It was surprisingly fun! We bought new containers and colour coded the massive box of little pieces. Very satisfying.

Besides that we just hung out, having fun. And a few tantrums as well, for good measure. I also went for a walk around Lake Daylesford, just to check my legs still work (they do). It was very muddy and slippery, but still so beautiful.

Back home with my lovelies we had cupcakes for afternoon tea,

a test run for Rosie's party next weekend.

Wow, I can't believe she is turning 6 soon! How did that happen? She has been trying so hard lately to be a big girl. Getting herself dressed, remembering her manners, being more independent. It's so sweet to watch.

Speaking of birthdays, guess who turns 4 today?

Little Daisy. Rosie wrapped up some treats for her

and made a card. Happy Birthday Daisy!

What's happening in your world this week?

I have a long list of things to do and think about, including

...looking for work, (!), organising passports,

planning Rosie's party, parent teacher interviews,

possibly having dinner with Charlotte,

and a million or so other things.

I have a feeling it's going to be a great week,

hope yours is too.

See you soon xo

Beginning's

2011-07-18T11:14:00.000+10:00

So the holidays are over. Here are some random things that have gone through my mind over the last little while.

Kids: Our son is growing up! He is almost 10 and moving into that next stage of his life. Being the only boy in the family (not counting Mark) is sometimes hard for him but he is pretty good natured about it and gets along with the girls. (Most of the time.) He is a great boy and I couldn't ask for a better son.

I've really enjoyed hanging out with him over the holidays. All our kids are growing up, it's scary! The four younger ones are so close together that they seem to age in one big group. When they were little (and we had four kids five & under) it was so crazy and hectic, it's really a blur. Now they are older it's a lot easier, and I've just noticed lately that they aren't little kids anymore.

Birds. I am really into birds. I've bored my Facebook friends with this photo already but I just couldn't help sharing it with you too. I was actually snapping the bird in silhouette when the other one swooped down to get a piece of the action. Chook scraps that is, not camera.

Family. I've been really conscious of the many dynamics within our family over the holidays. Ups and downs, phew! One thing I've tried not to do is to get involved in every little argument, it gives it all so much more importance and then the situation seems to escalate. It's boring at times, listening to their little niggles, and frustrating. But that's family life isn't it? I guess this is how they learn to work things out. I"m loving the cuddles though, see above, and the way my kids have each other to play with. That is a real bonus of having children close together. So I guess the good outweighs the not so good.

Pet love. Is there anything sweeter? We're all about pets around here. Daisy is always on hand for some loving. She seems to be very sensitive to anyone who is upset or crying, she comes on over to lick those tears away. Dearest doggie. Our fluffy silkie bantams are going really well and I"m hoping for some baby chickies when the weather warms up. Guess what? One of the back yard chooks laid an egg today! Woo hoo! Keep them coming girls..

Weather: Yesterday there was actual SUNSHINE! Can you see it?

Such a good day that I made the girls go outside where they

had heaps of fun of course. Tea parties, shops, petals & sand cakes, alright!

This week I fully intend to continue with my attempts to keep exercising despite the

cold, wet weather. Here's hoping.

Imagination. Children have such amazing imaginations. Rosie worked so hard on her Snap game, and it's so fun to play! I love watching her learn to read, to write, losing herself in a world of colour & shape & words. Holidays are good for that too. Gee, I'm going to miss that Rosie Posie when she goes back to school. She's still my little baby you know...

Love. Need I say more?

Char came home on Friday night for the WHOLE weekend. Yay! She carved this apple, cute huh? It's been so good to be all together. I love that Melbourne isn't that far away and she can visit us anytime. Not so good is that Mark's sister & her family are a long plane flight away. We keep up on Facebook but sometimes it's hard watching the kids grow up on the computer. We hope to visit next year...can you imagine how amazing that would be?

Ducks. Thank you for your suggestions re duck names, there were some real beauties!

After much consideration we are naming our ducky girl, Jess, in honour of the

Queen of Wonkiness herself. Jess, there is something so sweet and honest, kind and clever and thoughtful about our little duck that she reminded me of you. Oh and she is very pretty. Her brother, Platypus, agrees.

Jess

So, me hearties, it's the start of a whole new week, a whole new term!!

I wonder what we will all get up to over the next ten weeks.

I love beginnings, they are like a lovely present that you slowly unwrap.

Anything could be inside..

hope your week is a great one,

see you soon xo

all good things must come to an end...

2011-07-15T13:58:00.000+10:00

The school holidays are coming to an end, boo hoo!

Here are some photo's from the last two weeks....

beautiful chookie..

sun light through the trees..

happy girls..

pussy cat..

rosella in the front yard..

Woody & Rosie at ACMI..

black lambs at Glenlyon..

...and of course vegemite! A favourite food around these parts!

It's been a great couple of weeks, we've been to the city, to movies, played outside,

seen friends, baked heaps of delicious cakes & biccies,

been to op shops, parks, cafes, exhibitions, taken photo's, made things,

celebrated a birthday..phew..what else?

We've had Charlotte home with us, we've planned a new renovation (!),

we went to a wave pool, out to dinner and

we've talked about the possibility of going to the US next year (!),

there's been dancing, making, gardening, dog walking and some adventuring!

And today I"m so happy to say that we signed up to sponsor a child through World Vision.

So it's been a full and fun time, have you been on school holidays too?

Hope the last few days are happy & relaxing,

and not too taxing..:)

See you soon lovely friends

Winter is good

2011-07-11T21:16:00.001+10:00

Winter is good for sunsets, for golden skies at the end of a misty, damp day.

And for views from the Convent Gallery, far off over the roof tops and away to the shadowy mountains.

Winter is good for ducks. Beautiful, sweet natured, worm hunting, leaf snuffling ducks. It seems Freddie & Zsa Zsa's children are still with us, Platypus the boy (on the left) and his sister, as yet unnamed.

Isn't she adorable? Can you help me think of a good name for her?

I'm not fussed if they don't go and live next door, the four of them are so lovely to watch. But if they do go I suppose they can chat/quack over the fence..

Winter is good for netball, for being braver, for trying hard.

And for club rooms, dirty knees & singing the Hepburn song loud & proud.

Winter is for school holidays, a time of rest for children, and teachers too. Time for Mark to make traditional Swedish cakes using his mum's recipes.

This mjuk pepparkaka was so deliciously light and fragrant, and so pretty. I love that he makes his mothers cakes, it's one way of having her close to us. I have my Nan's PWA cookbook too, with her little jottings and notes. Aren't these precious things?

Winter is good for rugging up, for long walks with the kids & dogs, for adventures outside. Don't you love that feeling of coming inside after a big, brisk walk, feeling flushed and tired and then getting all snuggly and warm? Love it.

Sunday and I have started a winter challenge. We must walk somewhere every day. We have to leave the car at home if possible. We both think winter is ace in so many ways, and we both love to be outside, exploring and having fun. Yesterday I walked everywhere, with my bright pink umbrella, and it was GOOD! I had a lovely farewell coffee with Kate, who I will miss so much while she is away. But I'll be catching up with her via Twitter (yes I am now tweeting, sporadically) & through her blog. I bet they have some amazing adventures!

Anyway, I"m not complaining about the cold anymore, I'm getting on with things and although it can be damp and dreary, I'm trying not to focus on it so much. Lets face it, winter is good for roast dinners, apple pies, sleeping in, hot baths, knitting, dreaming, planning, baking & making. See, I've almost convinced myself!

Winter light is so pretty. I love the warm tones of this old building in our main street.

I love the arches, the shadows.

Winter is good for meeting new people and recording their memories,

their thoughts, their lives. Tomorrow I return to talk to Ken,

and I can't wait! He is such an interesting fella.

Are you loving or hating winter? I wonder what kind of things you like

about the colder months. Hope all is well with you

lovely friends, keep warm

see you soon xo

Saturday thoughts...

2011-07-09T14:08:00.000+10:00

We've got a bit of a cockatoo situation at the moment. Attracted by the chook scraps a gang of cockatoos has been hanging out in our front yard, chewing the front fence, acting tough and generally being a bit of a nuisance.

They are a beautiful bird though so I can't be too cross. Lovely Betty from the Op Shop suggested I throw some plastic toy snakes on the grass to deter them. It seems to be working!

Do you like this little frock? I couldn't resist this little vintage dress that I found in an oppie the other day. I no longer have anyone who would fit into it...but it has little white scottie dogs on it...and it's just so sweet!!

I might just hang it on the wall..:)

Yesterday I started cutting up the beautiful grey Italian wool fabric I bought at The Fabric Store.

I was keen to see how a bunny would look using different fabric. It's more of a stream lined look, I like it! What do you think?

Today I was so happy & grateful to have the chance to go and watch Billy & Lucy play for the Hepburn Burra's.

I think Bill caught me snapping away here, he looks a bit embarrassed!

Usually we are at ballet on Saturdays so it was ace to have the opportunity to the kids play footy and netball. And Charlotte came too!

It's been pretty cold and wintery here lately. I think we are all suffering a bit from the winter blues. The kids are a bit ratty, I'm feeling frazzled...it's not all bad but I am feeling a bit house bound. How do you cope in the winter months? Do you get grumpy too?

At least it's good weather for baking! Today we came home and I whipped up some scones...mmmm.

There was a period of total silence (45 seconds maybe...) as everyone happily munched on scones with home made quince jelly and cream. Oh boy, yum yum.

And tonight ! Yes! We are going out to a friends house for dinner, woo hoo! I can't wait.

What are you up to this weekend?

Take care, see you soon xo

Home, & away

2011-07-05T20:51:00.000+10:00

Ooh it's a cold night tonight.. almost as freezing as it was on Monday when we left for the city.

Daylesford was covered in a thick, pea soup mist, so magical & beautiful.

Over the last couple of school holidays our family has spent time together and in smaller groups. This really works well as everyone gets some attention, it's easier for Mark & I and much easier to negotiate the hustle & bustle of the city. This time I took Rosie & Sunday to Melbourne for a couple of days, it was great to get away.

We checked out a great new playground in North Fitzroy, just near Charlotte's old school, Nth Fitzroy Primary. I loved the design of this playground, in was designed with great sensitivity and care. The kids had a ball, being slightly deprived in the playground department! Daylesford is sadly lacking in this area...

We also went to Ikea, where I picked up some fabric, and out to dinner with Charlotte. Rosie made friends with the waiter and drew him a gorgeous picture. Next thing we knew she was meeting all the kitchen staff! Funny. Brunetti's for gelati, need I say more? Delicious, mmmmm. We also took a tram into the city to see a movie at ACMI. On the way Rosie dropped her toy doggie, Rosebud Honey, at the playground near mums.

By the time she realised we were already watching Toy Story 3 so we had to hope & pray that RBH was still there when we returned. Luckily Mum drove by and found her so thankfully there was a happy ending. I LOVED Toy Story 3, what a great movie. I even had a tear or two at the end (so did Sunday), ...sniff!

After the film the Rosie & Sunday busted some cool girl moves at Fed Square and we caught a taxi home. Rosie was pretty excited about this as it was her first ride in a taxi! Woo hoo!

Living it up :)

Mum very kindly took the girls to the National Gallery one morning & I got to check out the

Fabric Store in Brunswick St. Amazing!! Lovely, helpful staff and so many gorgeous rolls of fabric. I bought a few bits & pieces which I'll post about next time. Do go and have a look if you are in the area, it's amazing.

I also had fun looking at the city scapes, houses, buildings, people. I always see faces in houses, like this one above. I would love to make a series of something house related. Cushions? Embroidery? Sofites?

Not sure but there was plenty of inspiration. This is one of the many benefits, for me, of time away from home, the chance to see other things, to see differently,

to step out of the every day.

And because Fitzroy is like home to me, it's familiar yet different, which I like too. Coming home to Daylesford today felt good too, as it always does. And today I was thrilled to interview another wonderful person, Ken, who has had the most interesting and colourful life. I am so loving this project, it fills me with joy and I feel so lucky to be hearing so many amazing real life stories .

What are you up to? Are you on holidays too? Wherever you are & whatever you are doing, I hope you are also finding inspiration & joy. There are many sad things in the news lately, so much tragedy and despair, it's so important to find the sparkles of goodness, hope & love too.

Take care lovely friends, see you soon xo

The last few days..

2011-07-02T14:43:00.002+10:00

Over the last few days I've been making a kitty cat for baby Toby. He was going to wear this red, moss stitch cardi but I ended up dressing him in the brown one,

I think it brings out his eyes! Either way he looks pretty dapper, and having just returned from Toby's party I"m happy to say he seemed to like him too.

(Just as I wrapped him up I realised he didn't have a tail! Oops, this was no manx cat so I quickly added one. Phew.)

Over the last few days I've been organising Rosie's birthday party, which isn't for a few weeks but I wanted to get it sorted so I didn't have to stress about it. I've been pondering the whole birthday invitation thing too, it's a bit tricky isn't it? Who to invite, who they WANT you invite, not wanting anyone to feel left out...oh it's a complicated thing...

Over the last few days I've been taking photo's with my new camera,

so many beautiful people to capture.

And I've been clearing out our cluttered hallway, which is very narrow, and has been full of Too Much Stuff. It looks a lot better..

and it makes the entry to our house more inviting & friendly, less chaotic. I find I'm always trying to tame the chaos around here, whether it's the people kind or just the every day clutter. Sometimes I win, sometimes I just have to live with it!

The last few days have seen glorious winter sunshine, boy have we been lucky! I hope it lasts for the school holidays.

I've also been to the newly re opened Glenloyn Store, yay!! Great coffee, food and service,

an excellent place to visit.

And I also had the great joy of meeting Milly,

the new baby dog of some good friends.

She is a spoodle, like our Daisy,

and possibly the cutest puppy in the world!!

Over the last few days I've been feeling a bit flat, a bit out of sorts. Life is like that
sometimes isn't it? But I know there is much to be grateful for,
sunny days, puppy dogs, little babies,
blue skies and holidays.
And so much more.

What are you up to this weekend?

Hope you are enjoying some sunshine too,

see you soon,

lovely friends xo

Spacing out

2011-06-30T11:33:00.002+10:00

Making bunnies is fun. I love the way they are transformed from bits of blanket offcuts,

into creatures, with personalities,

and eyes, ears, noses, clothes!! This little one was finished earlier this week and has gone to live with a brand new baby. I hope they have lots of cuddles and fun together. Now I need to quick sticks get onto another bunny for a dear sweet boy who is turning one this weekend.

Besides bunnies I've also been working on a new re purposed skirt. This time I took a beautiful cashmere jumper over to Phillippa's, after unsuccessfully trying to dye it using my front loader. Never again. Stove top dying is definitely more effective, for me anyway.

Using another skirt as a template I snipped around the edges, getting the shape I wanted.

The shoulder/sleeve bits become part of the skirt,

adding to the shape. I like this effect, it gives the skirt some direction, some snazz.

I really must get my own over locker, I can see how it could really help me

in the world of bunny making, and so many other sewing adventures.

Such as turning these sleeves to turn into lovely cashmere arm warmers!

Ok so there was a spot of silly dancing (I can't help myself...it's a worry...) and lots of chatting and cake,

and the skirt did get sewn up and hemmed. But I'll wait to show you the final result as I

want to dye it first and just check on the length.

What are you up to on this fine Thursday? I'm a bit spaced out today,

feeling a bit weary and not with it. I better get my act together as the school hoidays start this weekend!

Have you been working on something interesting?

I'm off to check out some other spaces,

here. Why don't you join me?

See you soon lovely friends,

chain reaction

2011-06-23T11:05:00.000+10:00

Winter is well and truly with us here in Daylesford. Lots of fine, misty rain,

drizzle, mist, cold and fog. The lake always looks amazing in winter.

Stark, icy, dramatic, imposing, soft, gentle, amazing.

I love the creeping black branches, long spider legs reaching across the glassy water.
Not that I stayed outside too long today, I couldn't wait to get inside where it was nice & warm.

It's perfect weather though for staying inside, snuggling and making things together.

Yesterday Charlotte was knitting her latest scarf and took some time out to show Lucy how to knit!

Lucy picked it up quickly and is now knitting her own pink scarf. I can remember my Nan teaching me how to knit when I was seven. It's a beautiful tradition to pass on down the line.

Char is on scarf number three. She popped into Ballarat yesterday to pick up some more wool and some dye for my next re-purposed jumper skirt!

It's been SO much fun having her home, I'm loving it. She is a fantastic big sister and has been helping me with picking up the kids, child minding and of course, being the best company ever.

Sweet Sunday found her old unfinished pom pom in the wool basket,

and quickly finished it this morning! She has used all kinds of purples, reds and pinks. She took it to school today for show and tell. All this wool activity started a chain reaction..

suddenly Rosie got into it. She has been desperate to learn finger knitting so after one quick lesson she was on her way!

She started off with pink but added purple, 'because Evie will likes purple'.

Rosie has named her finger knitting Geoffrey.

She got up early and worked on Geoffrey in bed and then took him to school today to show her friends.

Tomorrow for show & tell she is taking fifteen bits of coloured wool to share

so her friends can learn to finger knit too.

Bill continued on with his mega ball of finger knitting. It was a real wool fest!

He is attempting to make a rug for his room. Charlotte made one too when she was a similar age.

So, there you go! Lots of making going on around here.

What have you been up to this week? I'm going to have a snoop around here and find out.

I'll leave you with a photo of my me & my gorgeous friend Jack,

who I interviewed this week for an oral history project I'm involved with.

See you soon lovelies!

Snipping & Snapping

2011-06-21T12:16:00.001+10:00

Do you like my new skirt? Recently I found a sky blue cashmere jumper at the op shop for a dollar that was too big, the colour all wrong but so beautiful and soft. I'd been trying to think how I could change it, maybe dye it grey, sew in the sides...when suddenly I thought about turning it upside down and making it into a skirt!

Yesterday I took another jumper over to Phillippa's do do a test run. Made from lovely soft, black lambswool it was too small, but perfect for trying my idea out on. The bottom rib of the jumper became the waistband and with some snipping and overlocking it was suddenly a skirt! I'm in love with it. It's so warm and cosy.

The part where the sleeves began had to be incorporated into the skirt but they are actually a cute feature and add a bit of swish. I can't wait to start on the other jumper, Charlotte is off to Spotlight today so I must remember to get her to pick me up some charcoal dye. I"m loving this project! Daisy could care less, she just wants some loving.

Speaking of projects,

I have three little new cardigans that are inspiring me to make some new bunnies. I took some quick snaps of them today.

Aren't the colours snazzy?

This water melon one is delicious.

And so are these three who had a day off school last week.

And what did they do? Played ballet classes of course.

Anyway, I better get going. I'm a bit excited for today I am doing my first interview for Hepburn Voices.

We are recording the oral histories of people from our town,

and my lovely neighbour Jack,

will be telling me all about his life while being filmed and recorded.

Talking of history, I'll leave you with a photo that I found the other day, of Mark & I.

I've made it my profile pic on Facebook and have had such sweet messages about it.

It's nice to remember the old days isn't it?

Hope you are having a happy week,

see you soon xo