Sew a little love

Hello Autumn...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Thu, 22 Sep 2016 10:36:00 +0000

Happy 1st day of Autumn! Yes, it's official today...from here on the nights will draw in thick and fast!

The weather is slowly turning after our last blast of warm summer sunshine...Who'd have thought we'd have high summer temperatures in mid September? Truth be told, I am ready for cooler autumnal mornings...crisp days with the warm glow of jewel colours covering a woodland floor...I am somewhat partial to all the lovely joys of autumn...candlelight, fairy lights, hot chocolate, cosy knits and warm socks. I always indulge in a little fall decorating at home too, as it gets me all cosied up for the chill that is coming. I spent an hour or so re-dressing the mantel in the living room. I do this every year, as the kids love the changing seasons too. My daughter exclaimed excitedly that it is 'marshmallow and movie season' at the sight of the first orange pumpkin.

Some might think: 'What a waste of time?' But for me it's just a little playtime! I work in an office all day, and I love my job, but at home I can indulge in my favourite pastime which is homemaking. It's a creative outlet for me, and I am fickle...I get bored so easily with my surroundings, and need to change things up a little...and frequently...

Now, I am really just a five year old in the body of a nearly 40 year old...yikes...that's a somewhat sobering thought! I love whimsical things, so this year there are a few old favourite forest creatures on the mantel...some handmade by me, and some collected over the years...I have teamed these up with my favourite autumn flourishes, a bouquet of Physalis and Asters. I love the bright, cheerful tones of these, and together with a few red berries it is the epitomy of fall. A few years ago, I made a wreath and leafy fabric garland. These come out every year to announce autumn's arrival. It's a it of a tradition now. As it's the first day of autumn, I thought I'd share some snaps. Do you indulge in a little seasonal decorating too? I'd love to hear from you! Here's to cosy days and woolly jumpers!

Blessings,
Tania

Teal tension...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Wed, 14 Sep 2016 22:20:00 +0000

Well hello there! So much has happened over the summer, I almost feel like I've lived through a whole separate existence! Hence there has been very little time to devote to blogging, and I am only just catching my breath. My parents, sister and brother-in-law came over to the UK to visit, and for us it was a very special time spent making memories. Sadly we had two bereavements in the family, as well as that of a very dear friend, so life has dealt us a few blows too....But, it makes you appreciate every single day for the gift that it is, and you can't help but feel challenged to seize every moment of opportunity that comes knocking at your door...

Over the summer I have also been very fortunate to participate in a Christmas feature for Style at Home Magazine which will hit the shelves in November, but more about that later! As the children are back at school and the normal rhythm of life is returning, I thought I'd share a quick bedroom update with you today.

Last summer we re-decorated the master bedroom by injecting a bit of drama with a dark feature wall, and a few pieces of furniture was given a new lease of life with a lick of paint too. I have never felt completely at ease with the whole scheme, as I have always felt that something was lacking. So, after a little planning and tinkering, I have made a few inexpensive and easy changes that somehow makes it all look and feel more cohesive. The first thing I did was to rethink the most important element of any bedroom scheme...the bedding! I wanted something less sugary and pale than the existing pink floral duvet cover we had on the bed. I found a fabulous linen set that looks and feels more in keeping with the darker colour scheme. I think it is adding more depth and texture, thus creating a more grown-up feel.

I visited the Milton Keynes Handmade, Vintage and Retro Fair at the weekend, and came away with the most charming 1960's floral prints. They were an absolute snip of a bargain, but I am very aware that they would have been a considered purchase for someone back in the day, as people gave a lot more thought to any new item for the home in an era of frugal living. These now have pride of place on the wall behind the bed.

By adding a few new touches, such as some freshly cut sprigs from the garden, and a lush green plant, the room is feeling more inviting and 'pulled together'. A favourite tip of mine is to peruse the bathroom accessories isles in shops like Dunelm, where tumblers used for tooth brushing and rinsing come in all shapes and styles, and they won't break the bank. These are perfect little vases for small posies on the bedside table. They also look fabulous grouped together in odd numbers for a quirky display.

I am very pleased with the overall feel of the room now. It certainly is a haven of relaxation now, perfect for reading in and listening to some old records while daydreaming away...

As always this is a work in progress, but homes always are, aren't they?

Blessings,

Tania

A quick hello!

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Tue, 28 Jun 2016 11:05:00 +0000

Hello lovelies! Well, I've not had much time to check in here of late...Too busy decorating and feathering my nest! I will not be casting light on recent political events, but suffice to say that there is an atmosphere of real trepidation and uncertainty in the air! But today, just a quick hello and a few snaps to show face. As soon as our British weather perks up and we have some photo worthy light, I will share our living room update with you too.

We have had so much rain over the last couple of weeks, but have spent some time pottering in the garden as it was completely desolate of plants. I am not green fingered at all, but hope to learn as I go. So far, so good...I've planted my first Lupine flowers. They are so beautiful! Any handy tips on keeping these alive would be much appreciated!

Then, there are these self-seeding weed-like poppies...Something I can't kill at least! This popped up in the middle of some building rubble at the bottom of the garden. Such a lovely surprise!

With all the rain, the lawn has looked a little on the wild side. But I keep telling myself that we're going for the quintessential English meadow look! Besides, the bees love the clover! Anything to keep the bees happy...

Rainy days do mean that a little sewing might get done...This little project by Sarah Moore has been on my 'to-do list' for quite some time! A little pea-pod pin cushion. A bit fiddly, and far from perfect, but it sits on the shelf rather happily and imperfectly!

When the sun has poked it's nose out between the clouds, we have seized the opportunity to dine Al Fresco! Nothing quite like lazy summer evenings in the garden, G&T in hand, and good company to while away the time.

I am hoping there will be plentiful sunshine still to enjoy. Our daughter's birthday coincides with summer solstice, and this always is a reminder that from here on the nights start drawing in again...Rather disheartening if you haven't experienced a proper summer as yet! But we hold out hope for a late Indian summer!

I'll leave you with this last snap...My girlie and I spent Saturday perusing the streets of Cambridge. It was a beautiful day, no rain, and a buzz of excitement perfumed the air as many students were graduating. Pockets of families and friends could be seen huddling together on every corner, celebrating achievements with fresh faced youngsters who are eagerly looking to the future. It was a lovely reminder that despite all the negativity in the press this past week, life still goes on, and we need to stay positive and look upwards. I loved every minute spent with my now fourteen year old little lady, and I don't know what the future holds, but I know Who holds the future...This last snap to me, is full of the beauty of years gone by...nostalgia of decades lived, memories made...Let's make our memories good ones! A shelf in a little shop on a cobbled Cambridge street, brimming with old tins...What's not to love?

Here's to love, light, and all things bright!

Blessings,

A little careful sifting...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 12:51:00 +0000

Oh my...please, if I go missing, don't stick my picture on a lamp post and go looking for me... Chances are I am trapped underneath a pile of stuff in my living room! It has been a busy time of clearing out and sorting through all the things we've accumulated over the years, and I am just scratching the surface. This is all a very necessary exercise, as we are going to re-decorate the living room. It hasn't been done by us since we moved into our home ten years ago! Yikes! In the process, I am sifting through things, carefully deciding what to keep. It is rather painful, as I am a keen collector. Yes, I said collector, not hoarder. And I am saying this whilst sticking out my tongue, and winking at all of you! There is a very distinct difference... Being a rather sentimental person too isn't helping at all, but I am doing the Marie Kondo test. Every time I look at something, I ask myself: 'Does this spark joy?' If my heart doesn't gallop, it needs to go. I will let you know how I get on. So today, a few snaps of some collected loveliness that does spark joy, and won't get the boot...

Wishing you all days filled with joy where you are!

Blessings

Kitchen reveal: Pastels and pink

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sun, 05 Jun 2016 17:14:00 +0000

Oh my...today is just the most glorious day! After a week of moody grey clouds, it is so lovely to finally see blue skies! I have been waiting for a bright day to take some pictures of our newly decorated kitchen to share on here, and I have finally managed to capture it in lovely, warm daylight.

The walls in the kitchen have been looking a little tired, a faded blue that made me feel a little blue too! I have been threatening to paint it pink for months, and well, all I can say is...PINK!!! It is very pink now, but I absolutely love it! The table and chairs are finished too, in various shades of pastels. It feels very cheery in here now!

Along with a new wall colour, the change has prompted the addition of a few new pretties to tie in all the different shades used. A very dear friend of mine gave me a beautifully sewn embroidery hoop for my birthday. You'll notice it's my name 'growing' into pretty little button blooms. Isn't it beautiful? It sits above another appliqued canvas that she gave me a few years ago.

I did a bit of sewing myself, and made a new door curtain to hide the recycling bin. Goodness, those pleats took forever!

Another project was to add a new tablecloth, and I opted for oilcloth as I always do. With three messy children, and the kitchen table doubling up as a food prepping area, it is both beautiful and practical. I cut the tablecloth to size, and then painstakingly cut a scalloped edge all the way around the hem. It is rather laborious, but well worth the effort. It hangs so much better this way. I used the leftover scraps to make a little counter topper too.

Finally, my favourite Clarice Cliff plate has a proper home too! I love the combination of pink and green, and this cheers up one corner of the kitchen. The curtains are looking even lovelier next to a pink wall too. These were a fabulous find from a charity shop a few years ago. I still love them as much as the first day I hung them.

A little more green...two thrifted vintage glass dishes that I acquired some time ago. The colour is absolutely yummy! Perfect for serving little snacks to visitors!

And so, the kitchen is at last just the way I want it...pretty in pink! Not entirely sure the hubby agrees, but thankful that he lets me express myself in this way. I think he's secretly hoping there will be more time spent cooking and baking!

I hope you are also enjoying a bright day where you are! Thanks for stopping by.

Blessings

Kitchen makeover

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Mon, 09 May 2016 15:48:00 +0000

So it's been a little quiet on here again...Truth be told, I'm not entirely sure where this blog is staggering to... Life and responsibilities seem to trip it up, and every so often I manage to dust off it's bruised little knees, bandage it up with a few words and a few snaps, and send it into the big wide world that's the web. Let's hope this time it takes more than a few tentative steps, and manages to take big, confident strides towards the next post!

I have been contemplating a few changes to our little kitchen for some time now. It is probably the busiest room in our home, as I spend most of my time here preparing meals for the family...boy, do they eat a lot...and often! I have teased that perhaps it's time to invest in a cement mixer which I can just shovel heaps of food into, so the little gannets can have a constant supply of calories churning! Apart from meal times, we spend quite a bit of time at the kitchen table too, doing homework, drinking cups of tea, chatting and Skyping family back home in South Africa. I get bored very easily with the same interior after a while, so needless to say a change is what's needed in here. That, and also the fact that the walls are looking a little tired. Now, I'm not talking major makeovers. The budget and space does not allow for this at present. Just a little investment in colour is what's needed!

Our kitchen table was one of the first pieces of furniture that we purchased for our home, about sixteen years ago. We bought it from the Greenwich Antiques market, so it has certainly clocked up some mileage! It started life as a dark oak table, and since has had the legs painted. For the last seven years it paraded in a very respectable satinwood cream, but I decided once again that it was time for a change. Along with the chairs, the table has been given a new lease of life with a tin of Annie Sloan.

I have never shied away from bright colours, so I opted for a very vibrant Antibes green for the table legs. Yesterday I was asked why I only painted the legs, and not the whole table. I suppose it is to keep a little piece of it's original existence alive, and I do like the contrast of the bare wooden top with the brightly coloured legs. From a practical point of view, I am also frightfully aware of the fact that the table top takes quite a beating in a house of five, what with all the food preparation, eating and crafting that goes on...And who knows, dancing on the table might be on the cards too!

As for the chairs, well, a rainbow of pastels are in the making. I have chosen more yummy colours from Annie Sloan...Antoinette, Henrietta and Louis Blue...As for the fourth chair, I am still undecided. Perhaps a lovely sunny yellow? The best part is that I managed to get away with sample pots instead of large tins. A sample pot was more than enough to give a chair the two required coats for a good finish. Hooray shouts my thrifty soul! You will notice that the furniture has been distressed after painting. I don't like things too perfect...I prefer the lived in look. As it stands, the furniture will get knocked about quite a bit, and if it's already distressed, the odd scrape will blend in just fine!

This is a work in progress...I will undoubtedly be sharing more snaps with you as we progress with the kitchen's mini-makeover. There are still two chairs to paint, the walls to do and a lot of sorting and faffing. Watch this space! I would love your thoughts on picking a colour for the fourth chair!

Blessings

Sewing corner revisited...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Fri, 08 Apr 2016 10:32:00 +0000

Well hello! It is Friday, the weekend is knocking, and I am looking forward to some crafty time...hopefully! That is once the laundry pile has been conquered! I have had a good tidy of my sewing corner recently, and a few new additions too, so while it's in an orderly state I thought I'd share some pictures with you. I don't have a separate room for sewing and crafting, but a desk that hubby built a few years ago in the corner of our living room. As you can imagine the challenge here is to keep it relatively organized, as to not turn our main living space into a messy work room! One day, I would love a space of my own where I can create to my heart's content, without having to worry about the inevitable mess it creates. One day...But equally, it is good to be able to sit in the same room as the rest of the family, to still feel a sense of togetherness whilst taking the time to sew. So today, a few pictures of my ever evolving crafty space...

Stripped bare, ready to re-organize...

A recent project...A gift for a friend...

Hmmm...what's next?

Here's to a weekend of creative pursuits!

Blessings

Baby love...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 22:49:00 +0000

Well, it has been a whirlwind of a weekend! Saturday was spent with some dear friends hosting a baby shower for two lovely ladies who are expecting. I thought I'd share some pictures with you, as it was such a wonderful occasion...

Mummy rosettes for the special ladies...

Some hand-dyed baby onesies turned into bunting...I decided to give balloons a miss,opting for fabric scrap bunting and paper pom-poms as decorations instead...

A very rustic looking naked cake...'Two peas in a pod!' Okay, cake decorating is not my strong point, but it tasted good enough to eat! I made the sponge using Mary Berry's Victoria Sponge recipe, and for once my cake turned out edible! Thank you Mary!

A vintage inspired table setting...

Rose posies for the table...

Our guest of honor, cutting the cake...

It was a truly lovely, very girly afternoon, spent with some wonderful women! I am looking forward to meeting the little ones soon!

Blessings,

March...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Wed, 30 Mar 2016 08:53:00 +0000

Well, hello! Long time no see! And yes, I know it's my doing...again...I really don't mean to stay away for so long, but I haven't really felt that I had anything worth sharing on here for some time now. And truth be told, the things that were worth writing about, well, I was just too busy enjoying them to think to write about them! It has been a mixed bag, the last few weeks, and energy levels were at an all time low. This mainly due to a horrid tooth infection that sucked the life out of me! In amongst the clove oil, dental visits and tooth drilling, I have also celebrated my 39th birthday, had a wonderful weekend break away with the ladies from our church, started and finished some sewing projects and kept up with the day job and family commitments as usual. There has been other celebrations too...a dear friend's birthday and Easter, so life has been busy. So, I warn you...This is going to be a picture heavy post! I have so much too share! Go on, put the kettle on...

Easter snaps...

Birthday treats...

Looking back, regardless of the tough days, it has indeed been a lovely month of March. May the loveliness continue into April!

Blessings

52 Snaps of Gratitude: Week 7

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 17:18:00 +0000

Sundays...should be slow days...Too often I spend my time catching up on housework, homework and the ever growing 'to-do-list'...But not this week. This week I was grateful for the serene quietness of a Sunday afternoon at home...

Blessings,

Happy Love Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 14:56:00 +0000

Happy love day lovelies! I hope you are all feeling the love on this sunny Sunday? We are spending it quietly at home today. The last two weeks have packed a few painful punches! We've all had colds, sickness, and general season fatigue me thinks! Mummy bear (that's me!) has been suffering with a tooth abscess, and mixed in with all that the car decided to misbehave too! This all did not bode well for a challenging work schedule! So, hence we are taking time out to take a deep breath and adjust our sails!

The one thing that relaxes me, is spending time at the helm of my sewing machine. Or so it should! I set to work today to sew a little cheerful house, but it wasn't without the odd hiccough! I recycled a beautifully embroidered vintage hankie, making a decorative hanging house by combining it with some favourite fabric. After adding some hand stitching of my own to the front of the house, I set to work to sew the shape for the house. Note to self: Always, always pin right sides together! Grrr...Rookie error! I ended up having to unpick it, and start again! But, I finished it, and I did enjoy getting round to doing some sewing again. How I've missed it!

I also got round to doing a little painting this week. I picked up this sweet metal lantern house in a sale. It was considerably reduced, as it was leftover Christmas stock.

Not to keen on the maroon roof, I took a paintbrush to it, and now it looks a little more cheerful and perfect for spring!

Blessings

52 Snaps of Gratitude: Week 5...and 6...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 14:28:00 +0000

Okay...So I have not been able to keep up with my gratitude snaps as intended...I missed last week's, and this week I am late in posting! A challenging fortnight it has been, what with a rotten cold and tooth abscess consuming most of my usual cheery disposition. But here is this week's happy snap, and with it the deep realisation that even when life gets us down, someone is always there with an arm outstretched to pick us up from our pity pit! I am so very grateful for the friends in my life who lend a helping hand when needed, the ones who put the world to right over a cuppa, and the ones who bring you happy flowers when you're having a rubbish week! Thank you...

Blessings

Happy Snaps!

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 20:23:00 +0000

....There has been a little thrifting this week...Perusing through the jumble of cast-offs at the local goodwill shops...and then this find...A beautifully vibrant, delicate Clarice Cliff floral dinner plate. Be still my beating heart! I plan to paint my kitchen table that exact green...soon...

I decided to try some new recipes too, and nothing gets me more excited than the hearty, wholesome dishes waiting to be brought to life from this Great British Farmhouse Cookbook...Made with fresh produce in-season, I look look forward to tempt my palate with delights from the farmer's table...

This last weekend there was a bit of jolly socialising with dear friends too, and an early birthday celebration for one special lady...This was the third time I made a 'naked cake', and it is my absolute favourite way to decorate a cake...It's the shabby chic imperfect perfection of the cake world!

As dinner was a spread of Mexican food, the table flowers had to be bright to tie in with our vibrant Mexican night...Bright pink and orange it was!

So, just a few happy snaps from a week that wasn't just 'all work and no play'! Some freshness and colour for an otherwise very grey February...

52 Snaps of Gratitude: Week 4

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sun, 31 Jan 2016 16:15:00 +0000

This week...I am so grateful for all the beautifully talented, creative people in this world. Yesterday I made the most of a cheery, sunny day, and set off on a little trip to the Vintage in the Shires Fair in Market Harborough. I was hoping to meet like minded souls who have a passion for all things vintage and handmade. The day did not disappoint! The hall was brimming with vintage treasures, lovingly crafted handmade wares, and quirky items for the keen collector. I met quite a few people whom I've been following on Instagram, and it was so lovely to finally be able to put names to faces! And, I came away with some treasure too! I absolute love the work of Suzi from Heartsnkisses. I have been following Suzi on Instagram for a while, and when I stumbled on her stall I immediately recognised her beautiful stitcheries! I came away with this charming embroidery. It is just perfect for this week's snap of gratitude! And it is a prayer of thanksgiving that I remember well from my childhood...Perfect!

Blessings

Lemsip and a paint brush...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sun, 24 Jan 2016 20:37:00 +0000

Hello lovelies! I hope you are all still enjoying what's left of the weekend, and that the early onset of the Monday blues aren't chomping at your heels just yet! My weekend has been a mixed bag...Most of it has been spent trying to shift a nasty cold which seems to have me in a vice grip. I suppose it's just the season we're in. Those who know me well, will know that I just can't sit still for too long. It has been particularly hard this weekend, as I had so much I wanted to get done, and all my body felt like doing was staying horizontal! But, as usual my overactive mind won, and willed me out of bed for long enough to tackle a little painting project I've been meaning to get round to.

I was given a beautiful old glass fronted cabinet in a dark wood a while back. It is a beautiful piece, but had some damage to the glass front of one of the doors. For a while I've toyed with the idea of painting it, or leaving it as is. On a whim, I decided to reach for the paint brush this weekend, after finally deciding on a purpose for this piece. It is going to be used as storage for sewing fabrics and pretties.

Before...

I used some leftover Annie Sloan chalk paint in Versailles, as I have painted some other pieces in the same colour. It is a beautiful, fresh green that offers the ideal back drop for some pastel pretties. Once the painting and waxing was done between sips of Lemsip, I papered the back with some favourite Tilda papers. I am so pleased with the end result!

As one of the glass panels is damaged, I decided to remove the doors until I can have it repaired. So for now, I have open shelves.

And now my beautiful old vintage Singer sewing machine has pride of place on top too! I know there will be a lot more faffing once I feel better, but the hard work is done!

Enjoy what's left of Sunday, and have a super week!

Blessings

52 Snaps of Gratitude: Week 3

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sat, 23 Jan 2016 10:52:00 +0000

Please tell me I'm not the only one who gets the 'January Blues'...? I always struggle with motivation this time of year, as the long dark days, and the cold seem to tranquilise me with passivity. Hmmm...I think it's rather transparent as this blog post is a day late! That is why I absolutely adore the sight of daffodil, snow drop and hyacinth bulbs on the supermarket shelves. There are very few things that cheer me up more than the vibrant, cheerful nod from Tête-à-tête (mini daffodils) in a pretty tea cup! I always try to re-plant a few bulbs to dot around the house. There is something so very beautiful about the contrast of spring against the backdrop of a bitter cold winter!

This week's snap of gratitude encompasses just that...spring on a winter's day! Even though it's grey outside, I am thankful for the colour inside! I've planted some bulbs in a favourite 1950's Brentleigh Ware jug, and it sits in a happy corner among the Liberty bunting on the dresser. This week, I am deeply grateful for spring flowers in winter!

Blessings

P.S. You can join in too! Share your snaps of gratitude on Facebook, Instagram or on your blog, using the tag #52snapsofgratitude, and tag me in it. It can be anything that you are thankful for! And you can post as often as you like. I would love to see your pictures!

52 Snaps of Gratitude: Week 2

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Fri, 15 Jan 2016 11:09:00 +0000

Blessing among the dirty spoons...

Friday...A word I've come to love! It means the weekend is here, and with it lazy mornings sandwiched in a duvet for that little bit longer, and cups of coffee savoured, not thrown back in a hurry in order to get out of the door on time. This week in particular has tested my resilience...January always does...The days are cold, dark, long...Demands on my time at home and work seemed to step it up a gear this week, and I have at times felt more than just a little overwhelmed by it all! It is so easy to throw oneself a little pity party, isn't it? Woe be me! But, having made a conscious decision to find the blessing in everything, I couldn't help but feel a little ashamed at myself for grumbling this week. You know what it's like when you walk into the kitchen, the same one you cleaned spotless the night before, only to find a mountain of dirty dishes accusing you of slothfulness just an hour later into a brand new day. And so you have to keep treading on that never ending mill of washing up and putting away!

But then, the epiphany on returning from work one day to a sink full of dirty dishes...Looking at those greasy plates begrudgingly, about to sweep them off the counter in a fit of exhaustion, the word 'perspective' suddenly dawned on me. What is it that I see when I look at the pile of washing up? I felt challenged in my own mind asking that question. I then realised that 'dirty dishes' mean I have a treasure trove of reasons to be grateful...It means that my family are blessed to have food on the table, yes, morning, noon and dinnertime...And me oh my, there are a lot of dishes, because I have a big family! But, this says that I am not alone. I count myself favoured to have four people in my life who give me more than dirty dishes. Above all they give hugs, laughs, love, and joy. It was at this moment I knew that the mental image my mind had snapped with such negativity as I walked into the kitchen, would be the snap I needed to capture for this week's '52 Snaps of Gratitude' post. So, no 'pretty pictures' here today, instead a little reality!

As I donned the Marigolds and set to work, my mood lifted and I found myself a little chirpier, content at the thought of finding the blessing among the dirty spoons...

Have a good weekend!

Blessings

52 Snaps of Gratitude

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 13:39:00 +0000

Happy new year everyone! Can you believe the first week of 2016 is nearly done and dusted? I am usually in a rather melancholy, reflective mood at the commencement of another year, but this time round I am feeling excited and quite optimistic! I am not big on resolutions. Full stop. I know that there are probably certain changes that I need to make to live a healthier life, but I am not about to jump on the January-gym-wagon! No doubt I will fall right off and injure myself! But I will move more! As for other things, such as my blog, well, sometimes I feel like I have just no clear direction with it, and whilst I am doing my 'new year re-evaluating', I think it might be a good idea to weed this little garden too! This has been a place for sharing creative pursuits, my little corner to record the things I enjoy and feel passionate about. That, I am sure, will continue. But, I will endeavour to commit to a regular weekly post, with a clear purpose in mind, as my posting had a been a little sporadic!

Over Christmas we had some friends over, and discussion soon turned to having an attitude of gratitude. Everyone was sharing how blessed they felt, and it got me thinking. A really good friend of mine wrote her own blog a few years ago, '365 Days of Gratitude'. Everyday she would share something that she was grateful for, blessings that come in all forms, on all kinds of days, whether the days were 'good or bad'. I always felt touched and inspired by her words. When you are committed to looking for the blessing in every day, you can't help but feel thankful. This can have a profound effect on your perspective, your joy and your sense of what matters in life. I have decided that I want to live a more mindful life this year, and so I will be introducing a new feature on here.

Those who know me, will know that I love a good picture...a snap at the end of the camera lens. I am rather fond of Instagram, recording moments in my day to share with a community of like minded people. I have met some really lovely souls, and the daily glimpses into their lives have opened my eyes to a beautiful world, and beautiful lives beyond my own. So, I thought that I will attempt a weekly journal of sorts, a snap of gratitude to share on here at the end of my week. The idea would be to capture and share one image a week, and I will do this every Friday. And guess what? It's Friday!

This past week has certainly been a bit like walking through Willy Wonka's crazy world of pick-me-ups and push-me-downs! There has been celebrating, laughing, crying, getting back to work and facing daily challenges already. But, it has been good. The 1st of January kicked off with a giant Wonka bar of golden deliciousness so to speak...A family celebration spent around a gooey, cheesy fondue pot to see the new year on it's way. We spent time eating, laughing and playing Jenga. I think that it is so important for families to make the time to look each other in the eyes, to talk and share food together. I baked a special cake, a naked vanilla cake, decorated with meringue, honeycomb and candy floss. I think even Mr. Wonka's teeth would cringe at THAT amount of sugar, but it was good...Together we celebrated the end of a year, and the start of another. And so the first pick of gratitude snaps, is this one. I am so thankful for for being able to celebrate, even when there is no calender stipulation for it. May you too celebrate the every day, the seemingly simple things in life, for (quote), 'one day you will realize they were the big things'.

If you would like to join me in my 52 snaps of gratitude journey, it would tckle me pink! Share your own pictures on your blog if your write one, Instagram, or Facebook using the hashtag #52snapsofgratitude, and tag me in it. Your pictures can be anything that you are grateful for. Share away!

Blessings

Goodbye 2015!

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Thu, 31 Dec 2015 11:58:00 +0000

Hold your horses! Another year gone? I am not quite ready to give up the slow rhythm of the holibobs yet! It has been the most manic run up to Christmas, and I've had to work the day job in between Christmas and New Year too. For me, as many can't wait to put their festive decorations to bed, I can't help but hold on a little tighter...a little longer...Just a few more quiet moments here by the fairy lights to take in the warm peaceful glow...I am in no hurry to pack away the baubles and glitter this year. Even the tree is still as fresh faced as the day we dragged it off the roof of the car. It hasn't dropped a needle! I think as I enter this new year, I will savour a few more moments in the festive glow of our Nordman Fir...Here are a few snaps from our Christmas at home...

Tomorrow I may be ready to reflect a little more on the year that's gone...memories made, blessings received, lessons learnt...But for now I will enjoy the last breath of 2015 in quiet gratitude...May you also taste the sweetness of a last warm hug from 2015!

Blessings

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Mon, 21 Dec 2015 15:22:00 +0000

And so it's nearly Christmas! Another year taking it's final bow...I have been busy feathering my festive nest, looking forward to a time of reflecting on the birth of Jesus and the joy I have because of Him. I can't help but feel a deep ache in my heart for the people who get completely wrapped up in the trimmings of Christmas, but who choose to leave the best gift unopened...a life of love, forgiveness, hope, peace and fullness of joy! Without Him, what is the point? Everything else will fade away...the trees wrapped in their finery, the gifts enveloped with crisp paper and pretty bows, and the festive holly wreaths gracing many a front door. But what remains is this, saving grace. I do hope that your festive season will have true meaning for celebration, and won't just be a process of going through the motions. Wishing you all a very merry Christmas!

Blessings

November, November, wherefore art thou November?

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 11:56:00 +0000

Oh my goodness...the last month has literally just vanished! I realise that I have not tended to my little blog corner at all last month...not a word! I think I'm starting to sound like a broken record every year at this time...Too much to do, and not enough hours in the day! But, it has been and always is a time of sewing. And as it is the 1st of the jolly holly month of December, I thought I'd share a few Christmassy makes with you...

I do love this time of year! I will be making and baking, creating and decorating, and spending special times with all the lovely people in my life! Above all, I will stand steadfast in the reason for the season...without Him, I am nothing. My you also experience joy, peace and love throughout December, and may your days be merry and bright!

Blessings

Wordless Wednesday - Autumn comforts...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 14:32:00 +0000

Blessings

A paler shade of autumn...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Sun, 18 Oct 2015 07:20:00 +0000

At this time of of year, I can do nothing but gasp at the beauty of the changing treetops as nature's paintbrush chooses a palette of rusty reds, purple and golden yellow. The landscape is breathtakingly beautiful as autumn weaves a rich tapestry across the English countryside. I always look at ways to bring a little of that splendour into our home, decorating with some cosy autumnal touches.

Usually the mantel by the fire place is dressed in an autumn palette of gold, rust, red and purple, and the dresser also gets a little makeover to reflect the changing season. But this year, for some reason, my eyes just twitch at the sight of orange pumpkins! I initially styled the dresser with traditional shades associated with autumn, but my eye just kept hankering for pastels! So, I decided to swap the the bright yellow and orange for more subtle pastel shades. And what is a girl to do, but paint the orange pumpkins pink?

I used some white matt emulsion paint that I already had, and just tinted it pink with some red poster paint from the children's craft stash. No expense spared here! Well, the pumpkins will only last for a short season, so I thought there is no need to use expensive paint. Before I painted the pumpkins, I washed them in bleach as this kills off any lingering bacteria, and so the pumpkins will last the season without spoiling. A little coat of glitter varnish, and a pretty ribbon just adds a bit of pretty!

Last year I sewed a leafy garland from some fabric scraps. This was rather time consuming, but well worth the effort. If you can't sew, but wish to do something similar, then I would suggest using felt. Felt is very forgiving, and easy to use. All you need to do is cut out some leaf shapes and thread them on to thin florist wire. You can then tie it to the mantel, or a dresser as I have done here. The wire can be manipulated easily to hold it's shape.

Nothing adds a festive touch more than a bit of cheery bunting. Of course you can take the time to sew beautiful triangles on to luscious ribbon or bias binding, but if you fancy a quick fix, then you can cut some flags from pretty fabric, turn over a hem at the top, and thread through some string. Voila! A little bit of loveliness!

And so, a nod to autumn, albeit a paler shade of pink!

Blessings

Pumpkin patching!

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Mon, 21 Sep 2015 14:29:00 +0000

Autumn is slowly painting a canvas of red, yellow, rust, purple and gold...Oh, I do love this time of year! As always I am thinking of ways to re-dress areas in our home to reflect the changing season, but truth be told, I just haven't got the energy or desire to go all out this year! Usually the mantel in the living room is completely re-dressed, as is the dresser, but this year I have decided that 'less is more'. Just a few subtle touches will have to suffice!

I have seen the most gorgeous fabric pumpkins gracing the pages of Pinterest, and this year I have finally managed to make some. My only regret...that I hadn't done it sooner! They are super easy to craft, even if you claim you can't sew. You don't even need a sewing machine, although having one makes it a little quicker and easier. As long as you can sew a basic straight line, and a running stitch, you are good to go! I am not going to bore you with the finer 'how to's', as Pinterest is already brimming with handy tutorials. Just type in 'fabric pumpkin' in the search box, and you will be spoilt for choice. All I will say is that I wanted my pumpkins in two co-ordinating fabrics, so I had to do a little more cutting and joining of panels, but you can opt for one fabric only which will be easier.

I hot glued some twigs and felt leaves to the top, and some curled copper wire for a quirky finish. Tah-dah! Let me know if you have a go at pumpkin sewing. Would love to see yours!

Blessings

Monday's Musings...

noreply@blogger.com (Tania) — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 10:24:00 +0000

Hello lovelies! I feel so overwhelmed and grateful for all the kind words of encouragement following my last post. Sometimes it's just nice to get a warm, virtual hug when feeling a little down in the dumps! You are all very much appreciated, and I feel very touched that you took the time to write. I have picked myself up, and dusted off yesterday's disappointments. Today is feeling a lot brighter!

If you've been following my blog, you'll know that I recently redecorated the master bedroom. I thought that it was done and dusted, but as I'm getting used to it I realise that it is not quite finished. It is still evolving! I really want it to feel more sumptuous and layered, and it seems that the white wall just isn't cutting the mustard. I have been toying with the idea to wallpaper the white wall against the deep, dark teal of the other existing wall, and I think I've finally found a wallpaper I love. Made by Pip Studio, it is not the cheapest, but then one can see why! I received four samples in the post, in four different colourways, and the difficult part is choosing one....They are absolutely yummy!

My initial preference was for the green background, which I still love, but the light blue seems to sit very comfortably next to the teal wall. Then again, I don't want the comfortable option, I want a bit of drama, and the dark blue would add just that, as the it makes the bright colours pop. Oh dear....This is going to take a while me thinks! In the meantime, I have framed these beauties to sit nicely up on a shelf whilst I make up my mind! (And to give me time to save a few pennies!)

I have at last found a home for my beautiful lead glass clock though. It was a gift from hubby thirteen years ago when I gave birth to our daughter. For the last few years it has been stored away, as I was never able to find just the right spot for it. At last it now happily resides next to my bed! The deep colours seemed to have come to life up against that dark wall.

If you can lend me any words of wisdom with regards to a choice of wallpaper, please do! I hope your Monday is full of cheer. Onwards and upwards!

Blessings