Becky et al

Test Knitting

2012-02-16T10:07:00.000+11:00

I was lucky enough to get to test a new hat pattern for designer Terri Kruse.

Terri blogs here, and she has a Ravelry group too. I love so many of her designs and have a number of her patterns to knit for myself one of these days.

This slouchy hat is a quick knit, has great detail and is knit in sport weight yarn so isn't too hot and heavy.

I enjoyed knitting it, I know I will enjoy wearing it too.

The pattern release won't be too far away on this one, keep your eye out for it.

More creative stuff here.

Smile

2012-02-11T19:08:00.000+11:00

At least one of us managed to smile...

In Threes

2012-02-09T08:14:00.000+11:00

An In Threes baby cardigan for Possum. I love this pattern, I think this is the third time I have knit it and I know I will knit it again.

The buttons are from The bird and the fish. Jo is clever at making buttons, I have not tried but I am sure I am not up to the task so I have a collection of Jo's handiwork here for when I need them.

More creative stuff here.

Farm Cat

2012-02-04T20:22:00.000+11:00

Sleeps high up on the roof.

And retreats into the chimney with each passing shower of rain.

Funny critter!

Scrap Attack Quilt

2012-02-02T09:57:00.001+11:00

I finished my scrap attack quilt, and I love it!

I love the bullseye effect, I love that it is scrappy. So many of the prints used remind me of friends and projects past, it is a nice feeling to snuggle into.

Blue likes hiding under it, he calls it 'the hiding place'. I like it too as the light shines through with the soft reflection of each colour triangle. We have spent a bit of time under there together so far.

This quilt was part of the scrap attack challenge. Link list to other scrap attack quilts here.

It is also my February finish for AJ's '12 in 12' challenge.

Nothing better than a finished project, especially one you love.

Hand Quilting

2012-02-01T07:54:00.003+11:00

Awhile ago I finished my medallion quilt top that was a part of a quilt-along. It was a lot of fun (and a bit nerve wracking) designing each new round when you didn't know what was to follow.

I did it, and I love the result. This quilt is going to be a fave, it already is!

The Prints Charming print that I used for the centre medallion was perfect to allow me to try hand quilting for the first time. My stitches are too big, but it did give me something to do while watching the men's tennis in the semi-finals of the Australian Open.

sorry, flash photo

I do like the way the print is now framed as it pops a little more, now lets just hope I don't make a hash of quilting the rest of it!

More creative type stuff here.

Summer Semester End

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

Today I submitted my final assignment for Summer Semester. I did two units over the Summer break which worked well. I now have three weeks off before lectures begin again and I have plans for this time: knitting, quilts finished and freezers filled.

I am looking forward to study this year, the help of a scholarship will make things a bit easier too. this year I am also a uni mentor which will be an added challenge, but one I am looking forward too.

{Australia Day} Warrabah National Park

2012-01-26T16:28:00.001+11:00

The kids love hiking in National Parks. They are old enough now that unless the terrain is rough they manage to walk unaided which is great for me. There is enough stuff to cart without having to carry children as well!

We went back to Warrabah National Park today to explore a new spot. It is a nice drive, and quiet too as it is off the beaten track.

All photos from Billy's Hole

We packed a picnic and went for a swim, the kids want to do more of the same tomorrow, but I don't like their chances, we have a large list of jobs to do about the place instead. This was a nice way to spend Australia Day, relaxing with family.

Swoon

2012-01-25T15:15:00.001+11:00

Like nearly everyone else I know, I am participating in the swoon quilt-along . I already had all the fabric as I have been buying every collection Denyse Schmidt has made lately. The fact I already had the fabric means this quilt also counts towards the 12 WIP's in 2012 challenge too. Double bonus!

dodgy flash photo, it was raining when I took this.

I have only made one block so far, but it is a giant at 24 inches square. No wonder the whole quilt is only 9 blocks big! I don't think I will get this one finished in a great hurry, but that is ok, there is no deadline on this one. It will be fun pairing different fabrics for each block.

Triangles - ATB

2012-01-24T08:54:00.001+11:00

There has been some progress on Possum's triangle themed quilt from the bee Around the Block round 2. When you ask Possum which block is her favourite she replies with 'all of them', Blue replies with 'the triangle one'. I am not sure which one he means!

I made three blocks on the bottom row. Mine are the half square triangles, not the super clever triangle block 3rd from the left. I think I have about 8 more blocks needed to get it to size but I wanted this off my design wall so I pieced what I had so far.

To see who made each block, click through to Flickr here.

I do like this quilt for a little girls room.

'We Care'...

2012-01-23T09:42:00.000+11:00

....obviously.

Stamped with:

RECIEVED WITHOUT CONTENTS AT WPC (AMF) LOS ANGELES, CA

My poor fabric. Lost!

And it was only yesterday I blogged the quilt top progress and hoped my fabric would be here soon.

Tango

2012-01-22T14:11:00.001+11:00

I am really wanting to start the Tangerine Tango Challenge, but I am still waiting on the second fabric order to arrive. It's been a month already!

Thankfully I do have some fabric to play with to let me make a start and have a little play on the design wall. I am allowed one other colour to go with the tangerine and I opted for green (in case you hadn't noticed!).

I decided this layout was the way to go with lots of white space to show off the bright colour.

Simple, but fun.

Hurrah, Around The Block 1 finished!

2012-01-20T13:28:00.001+11:00

Many moons ago I joined an excellent quilting bee full of clever people. More moons past and I pieced the top and tagged each block with the name of the person who made it. You would think it would then be a simple matter to finish the quilt off so that the small boy could use it on his bed, but still more moons past.

I did indeed finally finish it, last night in fact. The small boy seems very happy with it.

I backed it in a grey homespun and used some Kei honeycomb for the binding. Perhaps I should have used a solid as it is a pretty busy quilt. Oh well!

I quilted straight lines around each block and then I did a straight line geometric kind of fill in. It was hard to know what to do given this was a wonky log cabin block so there was not much to line up with.

If you want to see the quilt top in full follow the link above. It was too sunny here to get a good full shot so I didn't worry with one.

This is also the first WIP I have finished as part of the 12 in 12 challenge!

Hurrah!!

Holiday End

2012-01-17T13:05:00.000+11:00

The Mr is back at work but that is ok. We are still finding time for fun stuff, like feeding the fruit from the orchard to the pigs and swimming in the creek.

I have one more assignment due before I am finished Summer Semester, but that is ok too. I still feel relaxed and happy and am smiling about the good stuff and ignoring the bad stuff; the broken washing machine*, the sore tooth, needing a new ram. That stuff will sort itself out and will be forgotten, unlike the memories we are making here for the children and ourselves.

* Washing machine is fixed just one day after I put in the service call.

Things are looking up again already!

Bullseye Progress

2012-01-16T18:33:00.000+11:00

My values/bullseye quilt has been pieced and this evening when little feet are all in bed I hope to get it sandwiched. If I am true to form, quilting won't happen for awhile yet so I thought I would show it off now.

Not bad for a pile of scraps!

Rootin' Tootin'

2012-01-10T13:04:00.002+11:00

Rooton' Tootin' Cowboy and Rootin' Tootin' Cowgirl in action. I suspect the kids picked that up from Toy Story, wherever it came from, it is pretty cute.

Nan gave these promotional hats to the kids around this time last year, they fit better now so I have pulled them out to wear around the farm. So cute!

Happy Snap

2012-01-09T17:27:00.003+11:00

Walking in town the other day I spotted this door and thought 'photo op'; the light was good, I had my camera in my bag; I asked the kids to stand still for two minutes. They wore play clothes and didn't exactly smile, but I kind of like this photo anyway, and everyday moments are just as important as capturing that perfect photo, or so I tell myself !

They are a cute pair, and I love the look Blue is giving me in this shot.

Cheeky boy!

Scrappy

2012-01-08T16:53:00.002+11:00

Today while Mary Poppins played on a gifted VHS I have been working on one of my WIP's for the 12 in 12 challenge. An added bonus, in mentioning this quilt to Amy, I am now also taking part in the scrap attack quilt-along. Another added bonus is that I also now know this is called a values quilt.

These scraps have been building up for awhile. Left over projects, goody bags from Sew it Together (thanks Hawthorne Threads and Posie Patchwork). There are also bits from charm square swaps and even the odd FQ in the mix. I think it looks pretty good at this point, tossed on the design wall as is with each few blocks that come off the machine.

I have about 488 triangles that will end up in this quilt, more scraps than I thought I had, and there are still more!

Since taking this photo I have changed the centre bullseye fabrics so they are all navy and more of a focal point. I have also filled the design wall and still have a pile of triangles so I need to start piecing!

Linen Cupboards

2012-01-07T12:01:00.000+11:00

One day I will have a whole wall of built in linen cupboards. I even have a suitable wall, but given the floor needs re-doing first I bought these wardrobes cheaply to fill the void. It was actually a three piece set, two double door cupboards (one of which is not in this photo) and a narrower cupboard with draws. The makers mark tells me they were made in 1964 in Maitland, I forget the company and will pass on pulling one out to double check.

Neither bigger cupboard had any shelves so the Mr very carefully put some in for me so I could use them for linens. He also added some magnetic closures so I didn't have to key lock them closed each time. All three cupboards are neat and organised and I now have all the linen out of the second pantry which gives me a lot more space for pantry stockers.

Don't you love the old suitcases and hat boxes? I do! They were gifted from the Mr's parents and they are being used as storage too. I have others throughout the house, I love them all a lot. You might also notice the lack of cornice and bare plasterboard. We are slow renovators at best on this house. I love that there is no rush to finish this one.

One day, when my linen cupboard goes in, I plan on using these for fabric and yarn storage; there is plenty of room for patterns and bibs and bobs too. I can't wait!

Our Spa

2012-01-06T07:04:00.000+11:00

I admit it is not your traditional spa, but on a hot day, this cascade is where you will find me.

There are more creek and swimming related photos here.

Baby K

2012-01-05T09:57:00.001+11:00

In the Christmas holiday we had Baby K drop in for a quick visit. I snaffled him for a quick couple of photos before my two children dived in to play with him. He has very cute blue eyes!

I don't miss the baby stage, until I get to play with a cute baby, then, just a little, I do.

12 WIP's in 2012

2012-01-01T17:13:00.007+11:00

Aj over at Aj's Antics is hosting a challenge to clear 12 WIP's in 2012.

One a month. Sounds like a good idea to me.

You have to have 6 of the projects as actual works in progress, the other 6 can be projects that you are yet to start, but that you have the fabric for, I have a few of those type of projects too.
For every project you finish each month you get an entry into a prize draw at the end of 2012, it sounds fun! You have to donate a FQ to be eligible for a prize draw, but who doesn't have one or two (or a lot) of FQ laying about the sewing room?

WIP:

Possums triangle quilt: half blocks made

Medallion quilt: needs quilting

Vintage fabric baby quilt: needs quilting

Ravelry Block Swap: needs piecing and quilting

Blue's wonky log quilt: needs quilting edit: done! 20-1-12
Scrap values/target quilt: scraps cut. edit: done! 2-2-12

Projects Purchased and Pending:
Tangerine Tango quilt

Dick and Jane quilt

Mosaic DS quilt

HST BOM
Heirloom WW quilt pattern
DS Swoon Quilt

I am sure I have more to list, I will have to add to the list as I find them in the cupboard.

2011, The Year That Was in Pictures (and words).

2011-12-28T18:33:00.000+11:00

In March I flew to Sydney for Sew it Together. It was the most fun you can have with a group of friends catching up, laughing and shopping together! Blogged here and here.

In May both children were Christened at our local small Church. I made my first fruit cake to mark the occasion and it looked pretty good to me, there was much patting myself on the back here.

Blogged here, here and here.

We flew to Sydney to be on SBS Insight. the subject was the ethics of eating meat. I was there to represent farmers. I have not watched it as I fear I will think I look or sound silly on national tv and I won't like it. Ignorance is bliss? Blogged here and here.

I went to craft camp with friends too and managed to finish a quilt top.

I STILL have not finished quilting it!

I had an early mid-life crises and enrolled at UNE.

I am doing well so far and enjoying the subject matter greatly.

There was The Flood. It came too close to the house for comfort. We still have fences down that need repair, we have it book marked to fix in the next week or so.

We tripped about camping at Mt. Kaputar, Lightning Ridge, Bourke, Canberra Zoo, and had a day at the snow too.

There was also the usual small farm stuff, and family stuff too. It was a busy year, but a very good one.

I hope 2012 is just as good, or better for everyone.

Finished, mostly.

2011-12-27T17:02:00.000+11:00

I LOVE this quilt that I have been working on as a part of the medallion quilt-a-long.. I have loved watching it grow each month with each new round built around the centre medallion. Triangles, squares, appliqué, circles. I wish I had just a little bit more fabric for the final round which will be announced soon, but my layer cake will only stretch so far so I have to call it quits with this round instead.

It is quite large which makes it hard to get a good photo of the whole thing. I have my backing fabric ready, and I had said I would make a pieced back, but in the name of keeping it simple I may change my mind.

I didn't really blog these when I made them, Possum's Christmas dress and Blue's Christmas shirt. They have been worn for Christmas and the Santa photo and I am pretty happy with them. The dress is a Make it Perfect cupcake dress that I whipped up the day we decided to head to town to visit Santa. I love a quick project and so does Possum as she said 'wow, you finished something on the same day you started it', not my usual style for sewing!

I also finished a couple of very quick knits, both dishcloths.
I don't feel like I have been very crafty of late, but a few projects have been completed which feels good. I just have to quilt the medallion quilt and I will be happy.

Christmas Day

2011-12-25T18:43:00.003+11:00

Merry Christmas.

We slept in and then had a nice morning opening presents, eating breakfast, and opening more presents.

It took us two hours to assemble the 13' round trampoline and enclosure, but the children played with other fun things while we did it. They have been out there jumping for hours. I have only had to kick the dog off once so far.

We had a lovely roast lunch and once again I ate too much trifle. In a lot of ways, this Christmas was much the same as last year's Christmas.

Possum took this photo of us today with the camera she received for her recent 4th birthday. Don't you love silly grins, bon bon hats and jokes?

Q. What did the calculator say to the accountant?

A. You can count on me.

Q. What insect is musical?

A. A humbug.

Q. Who invented King Arthur's round table?

A. Sir Cumference.

Q. What do lawyers wear to court?

A. Lawsuits.

Quilt Stuff

2011-12-24T06:27:00.004+11:00

My medallion quilt-a-long efforts are slowly taking shape.

Round three was appliqué. I have left blank corner squares to appliqué a small shape taken from the centre medallion. I will do this as soon as I work out what fabric I have left over, I am running low on options right now; I have started the next round (circles!) but don't think I will have enough fabric to do the final round which is yet to be announced. It won't matter, this quilt is already large and I love it!

I will show off the circle round as soon as I finish it, won't be long now.

The Pantone colour of the year was announced as 'Tangerine Tango'. I can't say I have any tangerine in my stash so when I noticed the Tangarine Tango Quilt Challenge pop up on Flickr I thought it would be a good chance to jump out of my comfort zone and embrace a new colour. I have a Tangerine and Green themed Fabricworm order on it's way as we speak ready for the start of this challenge in the New Year.

I say, I hear

2011-12-23T10:37:00.002+11:00

Blue on eating a biscuit shape: 'It's a pentagon'

It was a hexagon actually, but he was close.

Blue after seeing a picture of the Veggietales:

'It is a vegemite!'

Possum: 'I am not octurnital because I like to sleep at night'.

Possum: 'The vomitable snowman should not eat reindeer'

Possum on her flower shop game: 'I need more custmeters'.
(customers)

Possum: 'We caught wombles'
ok, she really meant to say 'cooked rum balls' but the Mr and I both heard wombles...

Possum on her 4th birthday: '..and next year I will be five!'
Looking forward, a full 12 months forward.

2011 Santa Photo!

2011-12-21T09:59:00.002+11:00

Merry Christmas!

Santa Photos past can be seen here. They are worth a look too if you feel like a laugh, at least I remembered to smile (kind of) this year.

{Four}

2011-12-19T09:22:00.000+11:00

Happy fourth birthday Possum.

There is no denying that you are smart, and kind and beautiful. There is also no denying you like to try to rule the house. You are so clever that I sometimes feel that even at four, you get the best of me.

You love a joke, and you love to tell stories about everything. You are almost never silent. You love craft, and are getting very good at drawing. You can read some words now and you are good at writing your name. It won't be long and you will be reading simple books yourself.

For the past couple of months you have had an imaginary friend 'Lucy'. You tell me she is 5 and knows a lot about almost everything. You love Pre-school, Playgroup, music lessons and Little Athletics and swimming lessons; sometimes Lucy comes along too.

Your favourite colour is red, you think this makes it a girl colour and that you own everything if it happens to be red, even if it is your brothers balloon. You still love Charlie and Lola, but now we can add The Octonauts to the list of preferred TV viewing. You don't have any one favourite book, you just love reading and don't mind which book it is being read at any given time.

May this year be as good as the ones we have shared so far.

We love you.

Sunday Stash, the Road Trip edition

2011-12-18T10:24:00.002+11:00

Denyse Schmidt. Salty Aire.

Michael Miller Ta Dot on the left.

Amy Butler on the right.

Heather Bailey on top.

I don't know what this is, it was in the random FQ box. Any idea?

Because there was a road trip, there was also laughter, cheesecake, coffee, friends and more laughter. Shame I don't have any photos of that stuff, the fabric shopping was nice, but the day out was the best part :)

Random Moments from my Phone

2011-12-17T09:51:00.002+11:00

Waiting to catch her fist train in Sydney.

Same gum tree in each photo, shows how much water there was here last month. Both of these photos were snapped from the house. Too close for comfort.

Before all the rain. Even dry, I love where we live.

The road home from big town is dusty (or muddy) and bumpy but a nice 45 minute drive with a great view.

Best Playgroup ever!

We have a great local library, both kids love it.

Oops. We don't always get it right, but don't often post the photos of the bungles...

K mart wishing tree. Great cause, and this year Possum got the concept and had fun picking a gift to give to someone else. Blue, not so much, yet.

Early Childhood Music

2011-12-15T16:43:00.002+11:00

Today the children had their last day of early childhood music classes. Next year Possum moves into group piano. Blue will have some time off, I feel guilty about this, but he is going through a 'no' stage. It is tiring. I am telling myself that a part of being a good parent is providing as many opportunities as you can, but also in knowing when your child is not ready. Blue has enjoyed it, but he started younger than Possum so he still has time to take 12 months off and then start again at pre-school age.

excuse the dodgy editing of names on the certificates

I cannot say enough good things about early childhood music programmes. They are wonderful and the children have fun while learning in an interactive environment. It helps that we have a wonderful teacher here, the children love her.

We bought Brookie a cabaza as a thank you/Christmas gift. She uses a lot of different instruments and sounds in her early childhood music classes so we thought this might be a useful addition. Possum is booked in for a theatre workshop at the Conservatorium in the New Year. She can't wait!

A very bad photo of Possum's class

Letters to Santa

2011-12-13T18:09:00.000+11:00

I have been a bit slack in Blogging our Advent activities, but we have been doing various things. We wrote letters to Santa via Australia Post. We printed off the letter template to colour in and then I posted* them off.

Possum was a little worried when I couldn't read hers, but thankfully Santa is a little more magical than I am and I am sure he will manage well enough.

And now we await a reply!

*I really wanted to keep these, but thought it might raise too many questions :(

Busy

2011-12-12T17:00:00.001+11:00

You know you are busy when you draw your Blogtoberfest give away, and then forget to email the very nice person who won to tell them. And when you finally remember last week you email and beg forgiveness and pretend that it was always meant to be a Christmas gift, even if it wasn't.

And then you forget to post it again... I may need a new excuse, or maybe I should tie a piece of sting around my finger? I am so SORRY for being this *hopeless!

And I have had great things happen that would be well worth blogging, if I wasn't too busy for blogging:

I had a birthday
I got two Credits and a High Distinction for last semesters uni results. Yay!
I read a whole book, and it was fiction
We went bouldering
There was a road trip with friends
Gifts sent, and received

One of these days it will stop raining and I will take photos of things to blog. I might also remember to go to the post office...

*Can someone please remind me at the end of the week in case I forget again?

Santa

2011-12-07T13:15:00.002+11:00

Santa came to Playgroup today. When he walked in Possum made a hasty retreat out the back door and hid around the corner. We talked her out, once we found her.

When asked if he wanted to say hello to Santa, Blue replied with "No thank you". He is polite, even in his fear. He did say "Thank you" to Santa when he was given lollies, even if he did avoid making eye contact. I tried for a photo, but the tears started so I didn't push it.

Possum did warm to Santa and even moved in for a photo.

She is so brave, especially when lollies are on offer!

And then Santa and his helper jumped in the sled and drove off, complete with carols playing. I love that we live in the kind of town where it is still ok that Santa jumps in the back of a trailer and drives off down the road while waving.

Mum, can you..

2011-11-30T16:43:00.000+11:00

..take a photo of my seal?

...take a photo of my rock?

I would have preferred a decent shot of the latest lamb, but it was not to be.

Swap Goodies

2011-11-29T08:09:00.000+11:00

Last Friday I received a happy package in the mail. I should have blogged it before now, but I may have been a tad distracted by flood water. I signed up for another round of wash cloth swapping on Jodie's blog. I thought it would be a good kick in the rear and force me into some recreational knitting time, something that has been lacking around here of late.

Such a perfect package to have waiting for me! The chocolate did not last long either and the main cloth is already in use.

I love the pattern and the subtle colour change in the cotton. I don't know who sent it to say thank you to, but I love it all and wish I did.

I posted my package off yesterday too. This is not all of it, but I don't think this photo gives enough away to risk spoiling the surprise when it gets to it's destination..

Movember

2011-11-22T15:55:00.000+11:00

Are you living with a Mo Bro? We are.

One week to go...

Hop

2011-11-20T07:56:00.000+11:00

For the love of time outdoors and simple things being fun.

I say, I hear.

2011-11-18T19:48:00.003+11:00

A concept borrowed from Karen, 'I say, I hear' is an excuse to record the funny things the children say.

Possum: 'If you only feed me what I like I won't have to not eat it'.

Food for thought?

Blue: 'Elf-e-nants'.

Elephants in case you wondered.

Blue as I get him dressed: 'Good boy Mum'.

Thanks kid...

Possum: 'Mums should do what kids say because it is easier'.

Easier for whom?

Possum: 'I am going to be good until Christmas'
(lasted 5 minutes)

Possum on being told she can catch the bus home next year:
'Because bus drivers know how to get to all the countries'.
Student exchange already?

Possum on reading a book that mentioned God:
'God is one of our Church people isn't he?'

Possum after colouring in a stop sign:
'Is that an eight-a-gon?'

Little things

2011-11-15T09:49:00.000+11:00

In between birthdays (both the Mr's and mine) and exams there has been small amounts of crafty stuff happening. Not much, but a enough to keep me happy.

A Milestone

2011-11-14T20:20:00.000+11:00

Normally I post about the children's milestones, but this one is mine.

Today I finished my first semester of Uni! I know lots have people have done it before and I know I have a long way to go but I feel the need to celebrate the small things as well as the big things. I am now waiting on the results of the three units I did, but I know I passed so I am not worried, but by how much did I pass? Time will tell!

Three units is considered full time study. I am really proud that I managed this while still taking the children to their Playgroup, pre-school, music lessons, swimming lessons and Little Athletics. Did I forget anything on that list? Phew, we are busy! I had said I would study in my spare time, as long as the children didn't pay the price for it in terms of missing out on their things and family time. The house missed out, and some nights meals may have required imagination and an open mind to eat but we got there in the end.

Of course, the Mr picked up a lot of slack for me. Thank you. I don't really have words that will convey how much he has done, but it was a lot, and I am grateful for it.

And now I have time to read, knit, relax and enjoy Summer before starting again next year.

Lightning Ridge

2011-11-05T09:11:00.000+11:00

Further to our camping adventures mentioned in the last post, we also went to Lightning Ridge. It was AMAZING. So very different to anything I had seen before.

The bottle house. The light inside from the sun shining through this glass would be amazing to live with. I wonder how long it took to drink the beer in the bottles?

In any given direction you would see either mounds taken from mines, shafts, or shacks.

A beer can house built in 1977. I thought this was wonderful!

A Church knocked up for a film set.

And a castle made by Amigo. It even has dungeons under that connect to this mine.

Part of me wants to live here.

I didn't find my own opal, but I bought some in a small pair of earrings :)

If you have small children there is still plenty of things to see and do, but don't go in Summer for a visit, it was already verging on too hot for my two smalls.

Brewarrina and Bourke, NSW

2011-11-04T11:14:00.001+11:00

A week ago we set off West so the Mr could do a job near Bourke. I had not been that far out before so we all jumped in the car to make a weekend of it.

We found a campsite at the Brewarrina 4 mile and pitched the tents.

There was toilets and cold showers which was great. It was lovely watching the sun set over the Barwon river. and the children loved walking down to the jetty to look at the water. Blue called it a 'creek paddock' but this was a bit bigger than our creek at home :)

Possum wrote a story about this trip at pre-school this week. They both love camping and I was happy to see a new area.

We saw the red dust of Bourke and put in a few hours of work too.

Pegging out ready for construction to begin.

I took the easy job driving the total station and left the Mr out in the heat.

Bourke was hot, which was a great excuse to have a swim in the Darling river when we finished this job. If you are heading Outback for a visit I don't recommend Summer, especially if you only have a tent.

Giveaway Draw

2011-11-02T15:17:00.002+11:00

Comment number 7:

tartankiwi said...

Oh what a great giveaway... fingers crossed x

OCTOBER 2, 2011 8:20 PM

i WILL be in touch.
(i am not shouting, my ruddy caps has stuck!)

{thirty one} THE END!

2011-10-31T13:38:00.003+11:00

We made it to the end of Blogtoberfest 2011. Thanks for playing along, for reading and commenting and blogging. Such a busy month in the world of blogs and good fun too!

I may take a day off from my blog, I may not. Now that Blogtoberfest is over there is no blogging stress. I made the target 31 days in a row of blogging. No need to mention the fact that my content may have been a bit thin over the last week, I know it!

edit: did anyone notice that I spelt Blogtoberfest wrong in the sign Possum is holding up? Sigh, I am glad it is the end of the month!

{thirty} happy

2011-10-30T09:01:00.000+11:00

Second last day of Blogtoberfest! I am happy to have made it this far without missing a day even if it wasn't the crafty kind of finish I had hoped for.

I don't think I have had a finished project to show off now for awhile but I have managed to prattle on regardless.

{twenty nine} pigs

2011-10-29T07:46:00.000+11:00

According to the history of this game it was started about 3000 years ago in Piglonia and the average game took about 6 days to play because the pigs used to run away and hide in their mud bogs.

I don't blame them, if it is true...

I found this game for 50 cents at a local market stall. I doubt this is an MB games best seller, but it is a bit of fun every now and then. Pass the Pigs, please :)

Do you think I am scraping the bottom of the barrel for Blogtoberfest inspiration? You could be right!

{twenty eight} focus

2011-10-28T07:59:00.002+11:00

I don't see Blogtoberfest on the list, or Blogger either...

Exam prep is underway here (as soon as I publish this post).

{twenty seven} knitting socks

2011-10-27T06:52:00.003+11:00

I bought this Zauberball on a recent(ish) road trip North. I really like the colours and have plans to turn it into a pair of socks, presuming I ever finish the pair I am knitting right now...

There is still a lot to go. I need a big road trip so I can have some extra knitting time in the car.

{twenty six} thankyou water

2011-10-26T06:41:00.007+11:00

I am not a person who usually buys drinks in town. We mostly have water bottles from home with us because we are boring like that. If I do need to buy water this is the stuff I now look for. Thankyou Water! It is for sale in these stores near you.

It is an amazing concept and a good way to help developing nations access what we take for granted, clean water. 100% of Thankyou Water's profit funds water projects in developing nations.

My only complaint is the use of the word thankyou.

Thank you.

{twenty five} group work

2011-10-25T11:54:00.000+11:00

I don't feel like I am represented on this picture. Where is the person who sees the value in trying a cooperative learning task and wants the group to all contribute as intended for a desirable group outcome?

I am having trouble convincing the group that a cooperative learning task can only work if everyone has a discussion about the topic and moves on from there. I have no authority over the group which adds to the challenge, but I don't want one person to write an essay and then get someone to check spelling and fob it off as a group activity. Who will learn anything from that?

Rant over (for now!).

{twenty four} swing

2011-10-24T16:13:00.000+11:00

The new (old) tyre swing is in the orchard near the cubby house and sand pit.

Such a great spot to spend the afternoon for us all.

The simple things really are the best!

{twenty three} MPAY

2011-10-23T15:30:00.003+11:00

This week I am joining in with My Place and Yours over on Vic's blog.

The theme for this week is 'my pin cushion'.

Chicken via a swap, Felted cupcake via a lucky door prize, Apple made by me, Cupcake via a swap.

I have a few I love, but I don't really use them when sewing, with the exception of this pin cushion. Shame I didn't think to pull it out of the sewing cabinet and snap a new photo, but follow the link because it is a bit special!

Just a little over a week of Blogtoberfest fun left for 2011! I have not missed a day of blogging yet, but anything could happen in the last week!

{twenty two} Blue

2011-10-22T14:44:00.000+11:00

Due for another haircut is my blue eyed baby.

Lucky for me Blogtober gives me an excuse to post these photos I took a couple of days ago.

This boy is a joy.

{twenty one} catch up

2011-10-21T14:41:00.000+11:00

The assignment has been submitted and I can turn my attention to the next one due in two weeks. The Mr has been absent over the past two weeks is back home and all is well.

Maybe I can turn my attention to window washing?

Do you think he is looking in and thinking about the dirt on the windows too?
How do children get windows so very dirty in the first place?

{twenty} creative space

2011-10-20T06:23:00.002+11:00

A quick fix craft here due to the level of busy mentioned in my last post.

A key fob kit from Earth Girl fabrics that I picked up at Sew it Together. You can buy it in kit form such as this was, or pick and choose webbing colours and ribbon to suit separately.

Simple, quick and SUPER cute!

More creative spaces here.

{nineteen} study

2011-10-19T07:19:00.000+11:00

Two assessments due and exam prep to start...

At least I will have a good excuse if I fall off the Blogtoberfest wagon!

{eighteen} Sawn rocks

2011-10-18T07:19:00.001+11:00

Further to our climbing and camping trip at Mt Kaputar National Park, we also stopped in at Sawn Rocks on the way home.

It was an easy walk of 1.5km return from the carpark so perfect for the children.

Sawn rocks is one of the best examples of the geological formation known as 'organ piping' in Australia.

I suspect the children were more interested in the creek flowing beneath the main feature and I was waiting for one of them to 'accidentally' fall in.

Can you see the matching shapes on the ground that show where the rock formations sat once upon a time?

It was an amazing stop.

{seventeen} kids craft

2011-10-17T07:31:00.001+11:00

I have some fabric crayons and a couple of extra screen printed panels from The Red Thread also bought at Sew it Together. I had been saving them but thought they might make a fun activity for the children and this seemed like the most age appropriate craft option for them.

I will buy a couple of small frames and put them in their rooms. They are both very excited to have made something for themselves with the 'special' fabric.

I love the different stages they are up to. Possum likes to colour in all the spaces because she has not finished her craft if there is room for more. Blue likes to do it all by himself and you get in trouble for trying to help at all. I hope these will be a good reminder of these baby years for us all as they grow.

{sixteen} Secret Santa

2011-10-16T07:22:00.002+11:00

A small screen printed panel from The Red Thread. Wonky stitches and perle 8 thread.

I need a frame to suit it and I can pat myself on the back for starting to think about small gifts to put away.

The Red Thread was also a sponsor of Sew it Together this year which is where I picked up this little panel.

{fifteen} polly pratt

2011-10-15T07:11:00.002+11:00

I was really lucky to meet Anna of Polly Pratt at Sew it Together earlier this year. Polly Pratt was one of the sponsors of the event which makes me very happy as you may remember I bought one of her dresses there and wore it to the children's Christening back here.

Then there was a sale and I picked up another shift dress. I love this vintage style horse print on the linen!

Then there was another sale...

I don't feel guilty because Anna is lovely, and she sponsored a great event. And I love great clothes and am a sucker for a sale too!

{fourteen} medallion quilt

2011-10-14T06:35:00.001+11:00

The challenge for the second round of the medallion quilt along had been set as squares. I left it awhile to consider my option s and decided on a 9 patch block. Easy math may have been a consideration!

I bought some grey to let me add a border to frame each new round. I wasn't going to buy any new fabric for this project but I decided I had to. Glad I did as I think it sets it off well so no guilt here (or not much anyway!). One side is 48 inches across.

There are still three rounds to add and I have no idea what the theme for each will be. The 9 patch blocks did add a lot of size in a hurry and I hope I didn't overdo things and use too much of the fabrics early on. Time will tell!

{thirteen} creative space

2011-10-13T10:11:00.001+11:00

I picked up this tea towel in an op shop the other day. I think I will turn it into a bag like the Dubbo Zoo tea towel below. Curly Pops has a tutorial if you want to sew one yourself.

They make great shoe bags when you travel, and might even be useful if you get lost in Dubbo while at the zoo. I have a Timbertown bag somewhere, but I can't find it which is annoying. If you are lost at Timbertown, don't call me...

More creative spaces here. More Blogtoberfest fun here.

Two memes, one stone!

{twelve} random thoughts

2011-10-12T14:10:00.003+11:00

Procrastinating is easy when you should be studying, or doing housework.... unless the assessment is due tomorrow at which point in time you decide to do the housework as another form of procrastination...

Children lull you into a false sense of security and you pat yourself on the back for being a good Mum and having happy kids and a calm house. Then you are home alone for a week and they let you have it. Pow!!

Sometimes it is hard to be happy, but chocolate helps. I eat too much chocolate. I would cut back on the chocolate but I fear my intake of bubbly and beer might rise as a consequence. At least I can still legally drive after a box of chocolate.

I wasn't going to blog today because I am feeling a tad restless and not quite myself, but I am myself enough that I know it would bug me tomorrow if I wigged out and missed a day of Blogtober so as a result my random thoughts are it for today.

Sorry.

{Eleven} SIT - Prints Charming Skirt

2011-10-11T07:44:00.003+11:00

Back in March I went to Sew it Together in Sydney. As part of the fun we visited Prints Charming and went shopping and stitching. Everyone bought a scrap pack (or two) and a sew-along was born thanks to Karen.

my scrap pack laid out

I bought the Sew What! Skirts book and drafted my first paper pattern to suit my measurements. Great book and I learnt a lot in just this one project so am looking forward to trying a few of the other styles mentioned.

I finished the skirt awhile ago, but as is typical I only just got around to hemming it when I decided I should wear it to Church on the weekend. I backed it in plain stretch denim I bought while in Sydney too. I wasn't sure about the stretch element but it does sit nicely and feel good.

I need to add a couple of darts to the back to get it to sit better, but all in all I am VERY happy with how this turned out. I might look into a less bright scrap pack to make another of these skirts at some stage.

{Ten} Pre-School

2011-10-10T13:52:00.000+11:00

Possum's first morning at Pre-School today. She was excited! This term will just be 3 hours on a Monday to get her used to the routine and Pre-School life before next year when she will have to go two days a week (yikes, am I ready for that?).

There was painting, singing, reading, playing, craft, follow the leader, morning tea, as well as a certificate and a new book to commemorate her first day. Not bad for a three hour window!

{nine} Sunday Stash

2011-10-09T10:37:00.000+11:00

A bit of a collection today for a Sunday Stash. Denyse Schmidt!

First there was the Picnic and Fairgrounds collection.

Then came Winding Roads.

This led to the need to make a new friend overseas so I could add the US exclusive fabrics from these ranges to my DS collection. The above photo is a combination of Sugar Creek and Picnic and Fairgrounds not available in Australia. Thanks Alecia!

It has me excited about a quilt to come when I see all these together. A Mosaic Block quilt? A Spiderweb Block quilt? Both?

I am now just waiting on the soon to be released Salty Aire Collection before I start sewing :)

{eight} sandpit

2011-10-08T09:52:00.000+11:00

These holidays we decided to get a load of sand to make the children a sand pit.

There was an old wagon wheel tyre down the paddock when we moved in here so we rolled it into the orchard to sit in front of the cubby house under the almond trees.

Both children are impressed and I am happy that they have a great spot to play outside in the shade on long Summer afternoons. A tyre swing is next on the agenda out there.

Of course, it has been the WETTEST couple of weeks since we did this which is not great for playing outside, but when there is a break in the clouds it is all systems go in the sandpit.

Have you entered the Blogtoberfest giveaway I am having here?

{seven} climbing

2011-10-07T12:50:00.001+11:00

Further to the camping adventure blogged yesterday, we also went rock climbing while at Mt. Kaputar.

The Mr is a bit of a climbing enthusiast (nut?) but we have not been able to climb often since having children. Prior to the little folk arriving we had climbed in the Blue Mountains NSW, The Rock NSW, Ebor NSW, Mt Arapiles VIC and Phra Nang in Thailand.

The rock at Mt. Kaputar is first class and the guide book states that it is the best in Australia outside Mt. Arapiles. We agree. It was amazing quality to climb on.

We did three easy climbs at Mt Lindesay to ease back into things. Thanks for the Mammaries, Deep Water and Short Shrift with a slightly alternative ending due to having to follow the top rope.

We had a great afternoon while Grandma and Grandpa watched the children back at the campsite.

A photo of me climbing Deep Water. Not the most flattering of camera angles!

{six} camping

2011-10-06T14:18:00.001+11:00

We found a couple of days between rain to head back to Mt. Kaputar National Park.

Our last visit was back here last October.

Euglah Rock

We stopped again at all the lookouts to enjoy the views across the Nandewar Range and from some spots the plains below.

We wandered out to Mt Lindsay lookout and the Mr and I went rock climbing there in the afternoon, but I will say more about that tomorrow.

Possum called this area the Rocky Land. She wants to go climbing with us next time.

West Kaputar Rock

Both children love camping and think it is a real adventure. When asked what her favourite part of the camping trip was Possum replied 'everything!'.

We camped at Bark Hut and the bathrooms where open aired and lovely. Hot showers and proper toilets made it very comfy and at just $5 per adult per night it was affordable too. Children under 5 years old are free or $3 per night for the over fives.

Last time we came up here I had a photo taken with the children so decided we had to do that again at the same place, Mt Kaputar summit.

Then we had a rare family photo too.

It is hard to get a photo of the two children together...

The Governor

Next time we come up I am going to hike out onto the Governor. There is rock climbing there and I want a closer look.

{five} colour

2011-10-05T07:29:00.002+11:00

I get sick of sharpening them, but the children both love colouring in. We have had plenty of wet days these holidays so the pencils have been busy.

Possum is waiting for a few nice Spring days so she can swap the pencils for the finger paints.

{four} fudge

2011-10-04T07:23:00.001+11:00

To use some pistachios from our tree (and because I love fudge) I made this recipe by Nigella. It tastes perfect, but it is sticky and hard to work with which puts me off the idea of making it again in a hurry.

I saw a white choc rocky road recipe that used pistachios, so I think I will try that next.

{three} kids craft

2011-10-03T07:00:00.003+11:00

A few pipe cleaners and a couple of fluffy pom poms. Glue on some eyes and we had a quick craft effort to combat the rain (lots of rain!) over the weekend.

One of these critters even survived the night tucked up in bed with Possum. I am not sure how it ended up looking much the same come morning because I have slept with her, and it isn't easy. She is a wriggler and likes to keep at least four points of contact with you as she moves about.

{two} A giveaway

2011-10-02T14:54:00.003+11:00

EDIT: Giveaway now closed.

There are no rules. Just leave a comment and make sure I have a way to get in touch and after the 31st of October I will use a random number draw to pick a winner. These are Red Thread goodies up for grabs and are a great prize for anyone.

I always think half the fun of Blogtober is the giveaways :)

And for those that read about yesterday's fun, Bloggy is doing well, and still in the lounge room.

{one} Blogtober

2011-10-01T10:07:00.003+10:00

We are meant to be fencing but the general rain has put a stop to that. The creek bank was too slippery and the tractor couldn't get purchase to climb out over the far bank which did not help matters.

This meant that is was perfect weather for a lamb to arrive. This one was born in our orchard this morning. The Mr had to assist as it presented nose first with no feet to be seen.

I am not in the habit of naming the lambs, not even the two bottle fed poddys, but I have a strange urge to call this one Bloggy. Whatever we call it, it is a nice way to kick start Blogtoberfest!

edit: this lamb is now in our lounge room in front of the fire. After it's rough start it didn't have the strength to get up and drink. We are doing our best to help her out and have fingers crossed.

Lazy Saturday

2011-09-24T13:27:00.003+10:00

A lazy day for us enjoying the outdoors, wood carting and having a picnic by the creek.

A nice way to start the holidays in which there are no music lessons and no playgroup. Next term Possum starts pre-school as well so we will be even busier. Until then we will relax and take it easy and enjoy being at home.

While wood carting The Mr hurt his finger. Possum turned to him and said ‘Just be brave and patient and it will get better in a couple of days or three’. She also said she was glad this bee was busy in the creek paddock making honey for us. I would love to get some hives.

Medallion Round 1

2011-09-20T10:21:00.000+10:00

I only mentioned the medallion quilt along yesterday and an evening home alone has seen me finished round 1 already. Triangles! I kept it simple as my maths is never at it's best of an evening (nor is the rest of me if I am honest) when I am tired.

I had fun playing with these fabrics. The panel is from Prints Charming that I picked up in Sydney in March when I flew down for SIT. The other fabric is a Moda layer cake (arcadia?) that I picked up on sale at the local fabric shop a long time ago. They are a great match for each other and I love these colours. How fun to sew something for me in colours I love!

Each square is 4 inches finished. More easy maths which should help with future late night sewing sessions. It really is square too, the photo isn't, but the block itself is!

I wonder what the next round will be? I have to wait until October to find out...

New Things

2011-09-19T14:26:00.002+10:00

I have pinned the small boy's wonky log cabin quilt, but instead of quilting it right away I am thinking about starting a couple of new things.

At the recent craft camp I was given a magazine that contained this scrappy friendship star quilt. It seems like a good way to use my scraps, of which I have MANY, so I am going to give it a go. It could be a good way to stash bust and clean out the cupboard too... I plan on leaving off the buttons, and maybe making it a bit bigger, but will see if I get sick of cutting by then before making a final choice on size!

Some of the scraps and FQ I will use in the quilt. I need to cut out about 600 different 3" or smaller squares, and that is before I even think about enlarging it!

While I was searching through friend activity on Flickr I stumbled across a medallion quilt-a-long. I decided that given I already had the medallion from Prints Charming that I bought during Sew it Together in Sydney, and I already had stashed some coordinating fabrics, I should sign up.

Part 1 of the medallion quilt-a-long is triangles so I have to think of what I am going to do and play catch up ready for the next round, but I have time and this should be fun.

9 Patch

2011-09-16T11:55:00.000+10:00

This is the project that got me started in quilting. A 9 patch block swap as organised by Sheridan. The final mail out for these blocks was 22 months ago so as you can see I have taken my time in finishing this quilt off!

We each picked a feature fabric and sent it out in bundles to the other ladies in the swap. They each paired it with something from their stash, sewed it into 2 different 9 patch blocks and sent it back. I learnt so much during this fabric selection process which did add to the fun.

I then arranged the blocks, added a border, quilted it myself (finally) and have sewn the binding on. The result speaks for itself!

The best part of this swap would have to be some of the friends I have made.
Thanks Sheridan, Susie, Bronwyn, Helen, Lynn, Lara, Beth, Donna, Leah, MJ, Lisa, Bec, Bianca and Louise.

Day Care

2011-09-15T17:53:00.000+10:00

Today, for the first time, both Possum and Blue went to Day Care.

They were happy to go. Not even sad when I said I wouldn't be staying. Possum said it was alright for me to leave 'because Mums always come back for their kids later'. I am glad I have two happy and confident little people, even if it made me cry a little too.

They had a fun couple of hours and sang songs the whole way home together. They are already talking about 'next time' and planning 'adventures' with their new back packs. They are adorable together!

Around the Block R1 ~ Wonky Log Cabins

2011-09-13T09:34:00.002+10:00

In my last post I mentioned that I had been working on the wonky log cabin blocks from Around the Block Round 1. I was going to wait until the quilt was finished, but that might take awhile yet so I thought I would blog the top as it is. Also, I was too excited to wait!

Each of these 54 wonky log cabin blocks is 10 inches finished so it is a pretty good size quilt for a small boy and his single bed. I had to stand back to try to get the whole thing in the frame for a photo and the overcast nature of the afternoon did not help show off each fabric, but the overall effect can still be seen.

I will have to get organised and finish this quilt as Blue keeps pulling it off the sewing table to point out another animal or print. He seems very taken with the rockets and can be heard saying 'whoosh' a lot as he inspects each block.

Special thanks to Sheridan, Helen, Lara, Susie, Donna, Louise, Bronwyn, MJ, Amy, Lynn, Rita, Kate, Rachel, Jan and Annie who made up the members for this bee and collectively made 31 blocks for this quilt during the course of the bee.

Camp Weekend

2011-09-12T09:27:00.000+10:00

I just got back from a weekend away at camp with a group of lovely ladies and good friends I met through knitting. I packed my sewing machine and a heap of quilting supplies and hit the road. I thought it was ironic that I packed the iron to take away for the weekend when I don't use it here, but given I didn't use it there either it was more typical than ironic.

The camp was held at Lake Keepit and it is a great spot for such a thing. It was VERY cold on the Friday and Saturday but thankfully Sunday was a lovely day.

I took my 31 blocks that where made during Round 1 of Around the Block. I love these wonky log cabins but I had not made any myself until this weekend. I made another 23 blocks to finish the quilt top to size and got it all pieced, photos of that to come later. Special Thanks to Ellie who made a couple of these blocks for me over the weekend.

I ate so much great food. Also so much junk food. There is a melting moment in the photo above as made by Mandy. They are perfect, it feels wrong to call it a biscuit as it really is baking at it's best. I also ate 2 packets of Tim Tams, a large bag of chips, M&M's and plenty of coffee. Today starts my detox I think!

I also took my 9 patch quilt from the Chaletgirl Block Swap. That really was AGES ago but I am happy to report that it is now quilted and as of last night the binding has been machine sewn on so a few nights in front of the telly hand stitching should see that done. HURRAH!!

What a great weekend! I am already looking forward to next year as I had a great time laughing and got a lot done. It was wonderful all round.

Father's Day

2011-09-05T08:20:00.000+10:00

We didn't do anything too exciting for Father's Day this year. Handmade cards were exchanged and a promise of help to line the workshop was given as a gift. Nothing fancy, but all welcome. The Mr didn't waste any time in getting started in the workshop either. One wall is lined and the shelves are going up already.

We did pack a picnic and went down to the creek for some fun.

The children LOVE picnics, or pic-a-nics as Blue calls them.

The children both spent a large amount of time tossing rocks into the water while listening to the frogs croak. I love the clear water, which is lucky because it is the same water we pump into the house tank.

It was a lovely way to spend some time together in the quiet of our own paddock.

And special thanks to Gem. I take back anything bad I may have said about you after you chewed something you shouldn't or dug a new hole in my yard. This black snake was 10 meters away from our picnic site, but Gem woofed and growled while backing up to let us know it was there and we kept an eye on it until it moved along. It was a good lesson for the children because you can drill them on what to do if you see a snake but actually seeing one does cement the lesson.

Around the Block ~ AJ

2011-08-26T15:00:00.000+10:00

The last block is now sewn for the Around the Block Round 2 quilting bee. This leaves me happy because I am finished, and sad because it is over. Well, kind of over, because I have the top to piece from Round 1 as well as the newer lot of blocks sitting in a pile from this round too. I could drag this out awhile yet I think!

This block was for AJ. She wrote the tutorial which is really well done making what looks like a complicated centre into a straight forward task. Thanks AJ, I really enjoyed this block a lot.

AJ's tutorial for the centre block can be found HERE. AJ also did a tutorial for the Log Cabin portion here if you are interested in looking at that too.

Many thanks to Sheridan who organised this swap. This is the third swap, or fourth perhaps that I have done with Sheridan now. I have always enjoyed myself and have learnt a lot. I have made some pretty great friends too. Also a big thanks to everyone who took part this round and made it exciting to check the mail when a block came back home.

My Creative Space ~ Coffee and Dessert

2011-08-25T08:59:00.002+10:00

It has been a long time since I have joined in with a regular My Creative Space. I have been busy on Thursday due to the children's music lessons and tired by the end of the day. I should be more organised!

Last night, the combined Churches of my small town held a coffee and dessert night. It was very fun and full of dessert that would have put Masterchef to shame*. The theme of the night was 'Who am I?' This REALLY struck a chord with me given my Facebook status update of 24hours earlier was:

Who am I? Mother? Crafter? Agvocate*? Protester? Political commentator? Uni student? Tweep? Friend? Christian? Blogger? Confused?

All of the above. Busy times of late!

Tuesday at 4:33pm

I did not know the theme of the evening before I went. Was it a coincidence? Or something more? I often struggle with Faith, but in this instance it is not hard for me to believe that for some reason this is a message to me.

And in case you are wondering, the answer to 'Who am I?' in this instance was that it does not matter who I have been, who I am now, or who I will be, that I am loved by God.

Pretty powerful message on top of a sugar overload and caffeine hit I can tell you!

*Not my dessert, Masterchef is safe from me!
*Agvocate is a newish term for those that are good advocates for agriculture.

My Creative Space - When paint attacks

2011-08-11T14:27:00.000+10:00

We have been taking advantage of the warmer days to get outside and have some fun.

Both children LOVE painting.

I think it is good fun myself, until I turn my back for 30 seconds to hang a finished painting up to dry...

More creative spaces here.

{Two}

2011-08-09T13:43:00.001+10:00

Somehow another 12 months has flown by and now my baby is two years old.

He is such an easy going happy boy.

We are so lucky to be blessed by his slow smile, bright blue eyes and blonde curls.

You are now talking a lot, although not as much as your sister! You are so clear in your words and you think about things and your pronunciation is often spot on as a result. You said 'Ta' for a week, but then moved into 'Thanks' instead. You love your sister more than anyone and I love watching you play together, it is a blessing to watch you both have fun and learn.

You often have a dirty face and you LOVE being outside. You enjoy the animals and mud might just be your favourite thing. You also love reading and always pick a different book to be read each night before bedtime.

You love Playgroup and have just started music lessons at the Conservatorium of Music which you are also enjoying a lot. I get to sit in on the music lessons as a joint activity with you and I love being a part of your learning and play in this way. Sunday School is another fun activity you enjoy.

Happy Birthday to my baby, who is turning into a sweet little boy. We love you so very much and are grateful for the joy and love you bring to our family. Kisses xx

Thank you God for....

2011-08-07T09:20:00.000+10:00

I am joining Kelly at The Handmaden in this new meme 'Thank you God for...'. What a wonderful chance to stop and give thanks to God. I know I have a lot to be thankful for in any given week. It is meant to be a Friday meme, but better late than never!

Thank you God for our Winter Garden, and days warm enough that the whole family have spent time outside together.

Thank you God that my study is going well so far. I was worried that it had been so long since I undertook formal study that I would find it a great challenge.

Thank you God for my children's music lessons. I love this time each week and enjoy watching then learn in a fun environment.

Thank you God for our small Church and the friends I have made since I started attending late last year. I am grateful for the opportunities we have had since moving to our hobby farm and this community.

I wonder what I will be thankful for next week? And I wonder what you are thankful for too!

Light Reading?

2011-08-01T19:36:00.000+10:00

Ok, so it isn't really light reading which may be why my mind has been wandering today.

When will it rain here? It is dry and I don't want to head into Spring with no moisture in the soil.

Thank You Water is a wonderful idea. I usually pack lunch and drinks when we go out but if I have to buy a drink in town this will be what I look for.

I do not like cooking fat sausages.

The Workers are not as good as Big Dog, who is not as good as Prime Possum used to be, which I can't find online :(

Slow Saturday

2011-07-30T21:20:00.000+10:00

After a big week with The Mr away and a sick boy we had a slow Saturday.

We got a load of wood from the creek paddock and we packed a picnic. We ate roast beef sandwiches on home made bread and we listened to the birds.

We stopped to enjoy the sunshine and the children loved it, I loved that we didn't even have to leave home to do it. Perfect! I even loved watching my picnic blanket dry on the gate while we packed up.

Enjoy your weekend :)

Simple Things

2011-07-28T13:50:00.001+10:00

When your baby boy has been sick, and you are tired and don't feel that great yourself maybe a home grown egg with some home made multigrain bread and a side of bacon will help...

...and don't forget the coffee.

Around the Block ~ Kate

2011-07-22T12:15:00.000+10:00

Another couple of bee blocks for Around the Block.

Kate of Two Little Banshees sent out a variety of fabric and asked for blocks that included crosses.

The two above are 6.5 inches and 10.5 inches. I really enjoyed piecing these together and I can't wait to see the quilt when it is done.

I only have one more block to go and I am finished this bee. I have all my blocks back already so maybe then I will have time to piece my top? Or maybe the top from round 1? Or maybe not ;)

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In non sewing news, I did add the recipe to the Pastisio Pie post below. I had meant to do it at the time, but Blogger was playing up and I gave up. Sorry about that.

28 Hours

2011-07-20T18:18:00.001+10:00

We were only away for 28 hours, but we did an awful lot in that time. If you ask Possum she will tell we you went on 2 planes, 4 taxis, 1 train and 1 bus and stayed in 1 motel.

We also ate fish and chips at Circular Quay, went to the Queen Victoria Building to the ABC Shop and also called in to Kinokuniya which is my favourite book shop. I didn't buy too much because I was trying to be good (ha ha!).

And then there was SBS Insight. It was a lot of fun and I am grateful for the experience. Jenny was lovely, as was all of the crew. At this point we are not sure when it will air, but I have been told a copy of the dvd will be sent to me.

Blue did not like the plane on the trip out. There were tears and we played Fruit Ninja as a distraction which was semi successful. On the way home I gave him a lollipop which turned him into a happy flyer. I am not usually one to resort to junk food, but it has it's place!

I was very glad to get home.

The Cat

2011-07-18T08:11:00.000+10:00

9 days ago I went to town to run a couple of quick jobs and I came home with a cat. Thankfully this is not the norm on a quick trip to town! He was looking for a home and had been desexed. I had mice, and no cat, so it seemed like a good idea.

He spent the first night inside and he actually liked the children's rough housing. Blue would pick him up to carry him upside down but there was purring, and no scratching so I didn't step in.

The next day I put him in the workshop. I am not an indoors cat kind of person. We didn't see the cat for 7 days. I was worried but he was sleeping in there and eating the cat food.

Yesterday he came out from under the house for a quick pat. Yesterday evening he came up to the door so we let him in for some milk and more children cuddles before letting him back out. This is more what I fancied cat ownership to be like!

I hope he is eating lots of mice!

Pastisio Pie

2011-07-15T17:56:00.001+10:00

Looks good doesn't it!

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200g penne

1 tbs olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, crushed

500g mince

500g tomato pasta sauce

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

340g bechamel or carbonara sauce (I make a white sauce instead)

2 eggs

1/2 cup cheese

Preheat oven to 200 degrees c

Grease and line a 22cm round springform pan

Cook pasta for 8 minutes or until tender, drain and return to pan

Meanwhile, heat oil fry onion and garlic

Add mince and cook until brown

Stir in pasta sauce, cinnamon and 1/4 cup of water

Simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes, add to pasta

Combine white sauce and eggs

Add half white sauce mix to pasta and combine

Place pasta in springform pan and smooth surface

Pour over remaining white sauce to cover

Sprinkle with cheese

Bake approx 30 minutes until golden

Stand for 20 minutes before removing pan

Can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months, thaw in fridge overnight and bake in an oven for 15-20 minutes until reheated.

Recipes+ May2011

Best test knit

2011-07-09T18:48:00.000+10:00

I was very lucky to get the chance to test knit Girls best cardigan for Tikki. I have been finished awhile, but the blog has been somewhat neglected so have not shown it off here before now.

I knit the 26" chest, or size 7 cardigan. Possum will grow into it but I was lucky to have Miss J step in as a model in the meanwhile. This is a wonderful knit. It has a lovely lace panel down the sides on the front and clever gathers on the sides and sleeves. As the name suggests, it is the best cardigan.

I don't think I can wait for Possum to grow into this one, so plan to knit her one for now as well in a size 3 with extra length. She can't wait.

Catch Up!

2011-07-03T20:03:00.000+10:00

Things have been very busy here of late and I have not had much time to think about blogging. I did try the other day, but it just happened to be the day Blogger broke, typical!

I have been closely watching the happenings in relation to the live export debate. This is an issue close to my heart because if you look at my employment history about 90% of it has been in the agricultural/beef sector. If you don't know as much about this ban as you would like I have linked some references and interesting videos HERE. There is a POLL HERE TO SUPPORT Australian beef farmers, please have a look and add your name.

I have also enrolled in a Bachelor of Education. Busy times ahead!!

Snow

2011-06-17T12:27:00.000+10:00

Snow is now on Possum's favourite list of things. We pulled up and let the children have a bit of a play as we were driving through. Snow balls got tossed and feet stomped as much snow as possible during the stop.

We did suit up and head up another day for more fun. The big falls of the past week had mostly melted with the warmer weather but there was enough snow on the ground for the children to have some fun with.

I bought them the blue suits from Aussie Disposals for $20 each. These will get a heap of use at home too this coming Winter.

They had so much fun and there was a lot of excitement. They are all already thinking about the next snow visit to Mt. Selwyn. Maybe by then Blue will be old enough to help build a snowman rather than just trying to sit on it...

Canberra Zoo

2011-06-16T07:30:00.002+10:00

Canberra Zoo and Aquarium. Fun for everyone!

It is compact for a zoo which really suited the children. Everything was close so they didn't get tired while they walked about looking at all the animals.

We all rugged up for the Canberra cold and had a sausage sizzle lunch marketed as a 'zoo zizzle'. Whatever you call it we all love a good sausage sizzle!