tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87369761733657587472024-03-14T14:00:02.296+10:00Mon Petit PoppetStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.comBlogger275125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-81491079549762914852012-11-11T16:58:00.001+10:002012-11-11T16:58:16.934+10:00The Move<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZciA_ZqJfqk/UJBsYQI5KII/AAAAAAAAEBs/vQj_RBYUfe4/s1600/103+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZciA_ZqJfqk/UJBsYQI5KII/AAAAAAAAEBs/vQj_RBYUfe4/s1600/103+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJjA4BV-Dp4/UJBsbYJOrxI/AAAAAAAAEB0/JUUdxeuibAE/s1600/110+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJjA4BV-Dp4/UJBsbYJOrxI/AAAAAAAAEB0/JUUdxeuibAE/s1600/110+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L_GZb6d9b-A/UJBscmEIzYI/AAAAAAAAEB4/deB4J28cdPA/s1600/111+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L_GZb6d9b-A/UJBscmEIzYI/AAAAAAAAEB4/deB4J28cdPA/s1600/111+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The time has come to say good-bye to this space and embrace a <a href="http://thisbrownwren.blogspot.com.au/">new one</a> more reflective of me. This journal that has been a place to share my existence, capture moments of our days; it has kept the memories of my last few years safe. I've shared the wonderful world that is being a Mumma with so many kindred spirits and I sincerely thank you all so very much for your fellowship and kind words. I would love if you would come and become a follower at my new space, <a href="http://thisbrownwren.blogspot.com.au/"><strong>this brown wren</strong></a> and share my adventure.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Much love,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Steph x</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-38705680674971363152012-10-26T18:51:00.000+10:002012-10-26T18:51:27.592+10:00Market Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlqKksnP87I/UIoNTrGN_PI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/d4aIaqE_lO0/s1600/272+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HlqKksnP87I/UIoNTrGN_PI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/d4aIaqE_lO0/s1600/272+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Some final snipping and pinning. A whisker of twine and some brown paper bags. The car is loaded and I am ready for what might be my last <a href="http://mathildasmarket.com.au/brisbane/">Mathilda's Market</a> as mon petit poppet. This marketeering gig has been such a remarkable ride. It has paid for our fence...and my new found <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/a-new-toy.html">yarn addiction</a> and has kept this stay home Mumma busy and rewarded. <br />
<br />
But as I have <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/me.html">changed</a>, so has my aesthetic and although the Frenchy fabrics I once fell head over heels for are still beautiful and timeless they no longer speak to me as they once did. My designs are evolving and in a bid to enter next year with a shiny new slate I am marking down everything in the hope it all goes. Thank-you so very much for your support over the last few years. I am truly humbled by those who have purchased my wares and am so very thankful for not only the modest income you have provided me but the tremendous sense of achievement that has gone hand in hand.<br />
<br />
So to market to market I go....<br />
<br />
Steph x<br />
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-73032396264909793142012-10-25T14:51:00.000+10:002012-10-25T14:51:12.327+10:00A New Toy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pAXd7lsDf-w/UIi_9qkFx9I/AAAAAAAAD-c/HG1MG30rXcM/s1600/102+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pAXd7lsDf-w/UIi_9qkFx9I/AAAAAAAAD-c/HG1MG30rXcM/s1600/102+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkrCZKV1LZg/UIi__uRLZbI/AAAAAAAAD-k/X2R6wawc03Y/s1600/106+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkrCZKV1LZg/UIi__uRLZbI/AAAAAAAAD-k/X2R6wawc03Y/s1600/106+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4nzu1pe8pO4/UIjABWk__8I/AAAAAAAAD-s/I0T9tjxEj8A/s1600/107+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4nzu1pe8pO4/UIjABWk__8I/AAAAAAAAD-s/I0T9tjxEj8A/s1600/107+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVAKXvfb4Qo/UIjAGuc22CI/AAAAAAAAD-8/bkR8xGL6pNU/s1600/148+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVAKXvfb4Qo/UIjAGuc22CI/AAAAAAAAD-8/bkR8xGL6pNU/s1600/148+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There was a time not that many sleeps ago that I thought that all wool was created equal. Gaudy balls of raspy fibres lining the fluorescent lit aisles of Big W. Knit one, purl one, knit one, purl one...drop a stitch...poke concentration tongue out harder in a last ditch effort to save said stitch....pitch the whole lurid creation at the floor and stomp off huffily. Deflated, with nerves all prickly and raw. Scraggy, coarse yarn repelling all touch.<br />
<br />
My former self would no doubt be intimidated by the girl I have become. Time and a whole lot of practice, tedious knitting and re-knitting, and casting the net far and wide in search of answers to my often simple minded questions has finally made the penny drop. The code is no longer fuzzy nor does it send my synapses into paralysis. The gentle, rhythmic motion now relaxes my day weary body and nourishes my soul. I have become a knitter. <br />
<br />
I believe that all new growth after much toil should be rewarded and so a gleaming new swift and ball winder has become my very own. Those twisty skeins of yarn I so long admired yet was too scared to ask what they were and how could I possibly get them onto needles can now with an effervescent turn of the handle become perfect balls. It is also a family affair that elicits much laughter!<br />
<br />
Pale blue pima cotton transformed ready for Mumma's needles. A wee <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/monpetitpoppet/edens-eve">summer vest</a> for my blue girl I daresay. Knit one, purl one, knit one.......<br />
<br />
Joining this wonderful<a href="http://blogs.kidspot.com.au/villagevoices/my-creative-space-a-challenge-for-fun-community-and-creativity/"> community</a> today.<br />
<br />
Steph x<br />
<br />
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-42040887996502619422012-10-21T19:39:00.002+10:002012-10-21T19:41:16.211+10:0052<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mDVmDRbScBQ/UIPAlHp5_lI/AAAAAAAAD84/656lhRutnZU/s1600/066+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mDVmDRbScBQ/UIPAlHp5_lI/AAAAAAAAD84/656lhRutnZU/s1600/066+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlNW44p7cfA/UIPAvLK-tJI/AAAAAAAAD9I/8UY_Vl-tLS8/s1600/209+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlNW44p7cfA/UIPAvLK-tJI/AAAAAAAAD9I/8UY_Vl-tLS8/s1600/209+(650x433).jpg" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">"A portrait of my children, once a week, every
week."</span></em></span></div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></em></span> </div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></em></span> </div>
<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></em></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Bijou: This bunny hops off to kindy next year. I'm so excited for her but in quiet times my heart aches.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Remy: The setting sun cast a golden glow across the room. The abstract shadows were irresistable to this little man.</span><br />
<br />
Always inspired by this <a href="mailto:cheandfidel@blogspot.com">Mumma</a>.<br />
<br />
Steph xStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-702731929134858802012-10-14T09:00:00.000+10:002012-10-14T09:00:15.953+10:0052<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kT_Eye5ou5U/UHnv2f7eC4I/AAAAAAAAD7o/-nHcA7_NhmM/s1600/100+(650x470).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kT_Eye5ou5U/UHnv2f7eC4I/AAAAAAAAD7o/-nHcA7_NhmM/s1600/100+(650x470).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LkUgNBLxvYU/UHnwASKnf2I/AAAAAAAAD7w/FelU6rcHfFw/s1600/188+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LkUgNBLxvYU/UHnwASKnf2I/AAAAAAAAD7w/FelU6rcHfFw/s1600/188+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">"A portrait of my
children, once a week, every week."</span></em></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></em></span> </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
Bijou: All wispy haired and banana smoothie drinking....I adore this little lady.<br />
Remy: Dropping pegs over the side of the washing trolley and watching where they land...for ages!<br />
<br />
Joining in with this <a href="http://cheandfidel.blogspot.com/2012/10/4152.html">lovely soul</a> today.<br />
<br />
Steph x<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. Thanks for all your "blog moving" tips.....change is imminent my friends! Weeeeeee!</span>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-70378713704772541082012-10-10T14:17:00.000+10:002012-10-10T21:36:13.233+10:00Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUcnJVEPwuM/UHTv4F1BwfI/AAAAAAAAD4c/z9FOmmcOkTA/s1600/125+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUcnJVEPwuM/UHTv4F1BwfI/AAAAAAAAD4c/z9FOmmcOkTA/s1600/125+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Flicking through an old photo album this morning I barely recognised the person who appeared before me. The string bikini clad snippet of a thing with too much sun on her shoulders and not enough cloth on her body, the dark haired girl with woven wool wrapped tightly about her throat grinning madly under the Eiffel Tower, the carefree lass toasting nothing in particular with a long flute of champers....and manicured nails. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That stiletto heeled girl has long walked off into the sunset. The wardrobe is far less full, the crinkles around the eyes have deepened and my belly now bears the scar of two heartbreakingly long and arduous labours. But time has given me clarity...and peace. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I reached the pages filled with my man and my babies I felt at home. This chapter of my life however influenced by my past existence is my greatest work. I have changed; I have grown and am so immensely proud of inner battles I've fought...and won. There is still work to be done.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My home is my everything now and those that fill it are my world. I have wholeheartedly embraced this role and have thrown myself into it's daily, often mundane tasks. I cook from scratch, I sew, I make do. I breastfeed and cloth nappy my smallest, I thrift, I renovate, I don't vacuum as much as I should. I knit, I grow vegetables, I still have too much sugar in my tea, I make mud pies with my babies, I smile often. I am happy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In order to create a space that reflects the me of today I have decided to change my blog name and move to a new address. How? I don't have a clue! I've noticed that fellow bloggers have done this so any advice would be so very appreciated. As this blog is really a family journal of our goings on I would hate to lose any of my old posts. Treacherous territory? Or simply another step of this adventure of mine. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Steph x</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-7823740200068862142012-10-09T15:20:00.000+10:002012-10-09T15:20:21.438+10:00Flower Press<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3OL5JCEf8xE/UGlpbjODl3I/AAAAAAAADzU/AB43oOg4RPI/s1600/P1120018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3OL5JCEf8xE/UGlpbjODl3I/AAAAAAAADzU/AB43oOg4RPI/s640/P1120018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uZhAerdXEw/UGlp3Q0RwTI/AAAAAAAADzc/x0Py4G3U-ew/s1600/P1120021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0uZhAerdXEw/UGlp3Q0RwTI/AAAAAAAADzc/x0Py4G3U-ew/s640/P1120021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-db0DtCtSD4g/UGlrzNYT2LI/AAAAAAAADzs/pXjR0OjTPlM/s1600/P1120024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-db0DtCtSD4g/UGlrzNYT2LI/AAAAAAAADzs/pXjR0OjTPlM/s640/P1120024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SqeSiULlbp4/UGlsrtKDT2I/AAAAAAAADz0/YFaPH8wJKZY/s1600/P1120034+(731x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SqeSiULlbp4/UGlsrtKDT2I/AAAAAAAADz0/YFaPH8wJKZY/s1600/P1120034+(731x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wM_F8CxdpEc/UGlsw9aAi-I/AAAAAAAADz8/PNqmPOyseDY/s1600/050+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wM_F8CxdpEc/UGlsw9aAi-I/AAAAAAAADz8/PNqmPOyseDY/s1600/050+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SqCwSutG-wk/UGlszVP_PkI/AAAAAAAAD0E/UVOPi8Mweto/s1600/063+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SqCwSutG-wk/UGlszVP_PkI/AAAAAAAAD0E/UVOPi8Mweto/s1600/063+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5po0yAKyqfQ/UGls3FOE6AI/AAAAAAAAD0M/yyZg9Rjti7M/s1600/072+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5po0yAKyqfQ/UGls3FOE6AI/AAAAAAAAD0M/yyZg9Rjti7M/s1600/072+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We live a pretty slow existence here, my babes and I. Gentle barefoot wanders in leafy places stopping to pick this, smell that. The kitchen bench is constantly littered with remnants of these times outdoors. I treasure her keen eye and quiet stance when some reptilian soul crosses out path. I adore how she really <em>knows</em> plants; how they work, the names of the parts, what they are for. I smile at how he stuffs each one ever so delicately in his mouth. <br />
<br />
But blooms dry up, petals fade and seeds that were once locked safely inside strew the floor. Ah, to stop time in this ongoing life cycle of growth. To be able to cradle the beauty of a flower forever. A snapshot of each of it's magnificent stages of development. <br />
<br />
If only my babes would fit in the <a href="http://www.mywoodentoys.com.au/product_info.php?products_id=101">flower press</a>.<br />
<br />
Steph x<br />
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-76740170443288459322012-10-07T07:11:00.002+10:002012-10-07T07:11:28.354+10:0052<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkuP3e0lTE8/UG-t2hBqQzI/AAAAAAAAD3E/H0k48EwwVjc/s1600/004+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkuP3e0lTE8/UG-t2hBqQzI/AAAAAAAAD3E/H0k48EwwVjc/s1600/004+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0ZLJ3NPCF4/UG-t6I8dggI/AAAAAAAAD3M/03Ca-45piIo/s1600/277+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i0ZLJ3NPCF4/UG-t6I8dggI/AAAAAAAAD3M/03Ca-45piIo/s1600/277+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">"A portrait of my children once a week, every week in 2012"</span></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<br />
Bijou: Our regular trip to the museum never fails to capture her interest. She drinks in all that this wondrous planet has to teach her.<br />
Remy: Bonds wondersuit, vintage blankets, cups of tea in bed. Ah Sunday!<br />
<br />
Joining in with this <a href="http://cheandfidel.blogspot.com.au/2012/10/4052.html">lovely soul</a> this week.<br />
<br />
Steph xStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-38969269663674346992012-10-04T09:07:00.000+10:002012-10-04T09:08:05.347+10:00A New Lease on Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_BvbUNg988M/UGwCzSkPIXI/AAAAAAAAD1c/sCXShcBt-sc/s1600/P1120224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_BvbUNg988M/UGwCzSkPIXI/AAAAAAAAD1c/sCXShcBt-sc/s1600/P1120224.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGTNBhEgn0Y/UGwC_BrpxSI/AAAAAAAAD1k/KQ2NI-xu_rs/s1600/P1120233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGTNBhEgn0Y/UGwC_BrpxSI/AAAAAAAAD1k/KQ2NI-xu_rs/s1600/P1120233.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aa5cA_2VowU/UGwDJee3sWI/AAAAAAAAD1s/3EoRfpceA_g/s1600/P1120231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aa5cA_2VowU/UGwDJee3sWI/AAAAAAAAD1s/3EoRfpceA_g/s1600/P1120231.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q2ZpEBRZXnA/UGwDUSsNOrI/AAAAAAAAD10/b2RrngoUbZo/s1600/P1120228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q2ZpEBRZXnA/UGwDUSsNOrI/AAAAAAAAD10/b2RrngoUbZo/s1600/P1120228.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlx5DdHrQ0k/UGwDfwbeumI/AAAAAAAAD18/oUV0qpHcVZs/s1600/P1120227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mlx5DdHrQ0k/UGwDfwbeumI/AAAAAAAAD18/oUV0qpHcVZs/s1600/P1120227.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Hand stitched linens; doilies and what nots. Bits and bobs of another time. I am ever inspired by their beauty, their intricacies, the firework bursts of colour.<br />
<br />
I tuck them away in secret places only to pull them out on occasion to fold and refold, stack and sort...and generally drink in their deliciousness. I while away time pondering their former homes and how it was that they came to be part of mine. <br />
<br />
Some are used for their intended purpose. The damask napkins mop my babes' chins, the sunny yellow pillowslip brightens my bed. <br />
<br />
Some however, are re-invented into something new. A hand embroidered supper cloth has a new lease on life as a delicate singlet for a cherished friend's smallest. A slightly more A-line version of <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/blog-post.html">this one</a> with the addition of a whimsical ruffle.<br />
<br />
In many years will it<em> too</em> be found in a secret place and loved all over again. I hope so.<br />
<br />
Inspired as always by these <a href="http://blogs.kidspot.com.au/villagevoices/custom-carpet-the-full-stop/">lovelies</a>.<br />
<br />
Steph xStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-16767197293743110032012-10-03T14:33:00.000+10:002012-10-03T19:11:11.122+10:00Her Other Space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgrCj0gFs80/UGloYWrRZQI/AAAAAAAADy0/EuioAIeDwRw/s1600/P1120132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vgrCj0gFs80/UGloYWrRZQI/AAAAAAAADy0/EuioAIeDwRw/s1600/P1120132.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yw1O1QlyLEM/UGloiQWauNI/AAAAAAAADy8/h13slDQP8_Y/s1600/P1120133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yw1O1QlyLEM/UGloiQWauNI/AAAAAAAADy8/h13slDQP8_Y/s1600/P1120133.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-bn2Li-C9I/UGlotByFztI/AAAAAAAADzE/ePXMJfFb1vE/s1600/P1120137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O-bn2Li-C9I/UGlotByFztI/AAAAAAAADzE/ePXMJfFb1vE/s1600/P1120137.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmXGCcBUTmg/UGlo3af_r6I/AAAAAAAADzM/IbQyeUBAWVI/s1600/P1120141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmXGCcBUTmg/UGlo3af_r6I/AAAAAAAADzM/IbQyeUBAWVI/s1600/P1120141.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
Her desire to create is insatiable. Pens and paper are always in arms reach. Deep in the midst of imaginative play she pauses; I can almost see her synapses firing. And in an instant she is all snipping scissors, swirling colours and concentration tongue poking. She is creating.<br />
<br />
We are eager to hand over such tools and let our kiddies plunge head first into this making world. Open slather we say and leave the paper shards that carpet our floor til the after bed time tidy up. This mess explodes like a confetti party popper but with a flick of a broom it is tamed. Paint on the other hand... <br />
<br />
But heartened by words of famous educational theorist, Lev Vgotsky " What a child can do in cooperation today, he can do alone tomorrow." I began cultivating <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/her-work.html">another space</a> for my girl. A painting space she could delve into independently. <br />
<br />
A few pots of colour, a paint palette for mixing, some brushes and an old jam jar for water. A basket of paper and tiny pegs, a plaited rope hooked on wonky nails. Then the gentle yet constant reminders of what painters do, how they care for their tools, how they clean up their studio after they have finished. The modelling of each step of the process, the praise for success; repeated many times.<br />
<br />
She now puts on her art smock, retrieves her own water and returns it to the sink when she's done, hangs her paintings up to dry, and wipes the table clean with a damp cloth. Bless. Blobs of paint still make there way underfoot, wispy hair dangles in stained water and many a page is snatched by the wind. But how far we've come.<br />
<br />
Armed with knowledge, support and the appropriate tools, I really believe our babies will rise to almost any challenge. <br />
<br />
Steph x<br />
<br />Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-29144034651899568112012-09-30T13:47:00.001+10:002012-10-01T19:38:45.827+10:0052<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGZTJzHzVmQ/UGeRrZxL8RI/AAAAAAAADxo/J1obQYxad-M/s1600/101+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bGZTJzHzVmQ/UGeRrZxL8RI/AAAAAAAADxo/J1obQYxad-M/s1600/101+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbOqo8WzMD0/UGeRvOI0JbI/AAAAAAAADxw/hSYIyE3Mcog/s1600/042+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbOqo8WzMD0/UGeRvOI0JbI/AAAAAAAADxw/hSYIyE3Mcog/s1600/042+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Bijou: How I often find you; a sprinkling of crumbs around your mouth, lips pouted and head cocked in concentration, wrapped in something silky or sparkly. <br />
<br />
Remy: My little man...you eat anything and everything with such gusto.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Capturing little snippets of my babies' daily magic and joining in with this </em></span><a href="http://www.cheandfidel.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/3952.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>gorgeous soul</em></span></a>.<br />
<br />
Steph xStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-58279528091175387482012-09-27T19:26:00.000+10:002012-09-27T19:29:21.079+10:00Birdie's Bed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fM5n9tdavBY/UGLZq_hVTcI/AAAAAAAADtY/o6D9UCWOr7M/s1600/P1120095+(731x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fM5n9tdavBY/UGLZq_hVTcI/AAAAAAAADtY/o6D9UCWOr7M/s1600/P1120095+(731x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-neonzcbpXGI/UGLZsNV2LeI/AAAAAAAADtg/ZGQFegoHZ70/s1600/P1120096+(650x488).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-neonzcbpXGI/UGLZsNV2LeI/AAAAAAAADtg/ZGQFegoHZ70/s1600/P1120096+(650x488).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF1hMZpmQCY/UGLZvdZ59oI/AAAAAAAADto/OcLNJSYeSbY/s1600/P1120097+(731x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF1hMZpmQCY/UGLZvdZ59oI/AAAAAAAADto/OcLNJSYeSbY/s1600/P1120097+(731x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEtx6KQmSHA/UGLZx7ufS1I/AAAAAAAADtw/BpbfjHJtKx0/s1600/P1120098+(650x488).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEtx6KQmSHA/UGLZx7ufS1I/AAAAAAAADtw/BpbfjHJtKx0/s1600/P1120098+(650x488).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7_3Y16H3vg/UGLZ1KB7wTI/AAAAAAAADt4/ZqLf2c71gAk/s1600/P1120099+(650x488).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h7_3Y16H3vg/UGLZ1KB7wTI/AAAAAAAADt4/ZqLf2c71gAk/s1600/P1120099+(650x488).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rDFGK9KizJE/UGLZ31vIYyI/AAAAAAAADuA/FgxpDlpmLVM/s1600/P1120101+(650x488).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rDFGK9KizJE/UGLZ31vIYyI/AAAAAAAADuA/FgxpDlpmLVM/s1600/P1120101+(650x488).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCcs3TfngqU/UGLZ63j9HCI/AAAAAAAADuI/I5TMR2QFrtU/s1600/P1120103+(731x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jCcs3TfngqU/UGLZ63j9HCI/AAAAAAAADuI/I5TMR2QFrtU/s1600/P1120103+(731x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ct-AFAYHGw/UGLZ-KuQoDI/AAAAAAAADuY/lGmp22rJ-mI/s1600/P1120106+(650x488).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3ct-AFAYHGw/UGLZ-KuQoDI/AAAAAAAADuY/lGmp22rJ-mI/s1600/P1120106+(650x488).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I have amassed rather an abundant collection of embroidered guest towels from my delicious potters around op shops. Sorbet hued and hand sprinkled with tiny stitches of flowers and curlicues. <br />
<br />
They lie hidden in the depths of my vintage cupboard. They wait. On a good day when the cogs of my brain glide together effortlessly I think of them in all their pastel glory. Oh what plans I have for this delicate assortment. But today...today Birdie needs bed clothes.<br />
<br />
Perfectly sized for her cradle only needing a snippet of vintage sheeting for backing. A pillowslip or two stuffed with fleece and a much loved crocheted cushion from the <a href="http://miranarnie.blogspot.com/">dearest of souls</a>.<br />
<br />
Sherbet flowers, a steaming mug of vanilla scented chai tea, simple sewing for my girl. Just the tincture I needed to cure my creating <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/birdie.html">malaise</a>.<br />
<br />
Part of this wonderful <a href="http://blogs.kidspot.com.au/villagevoices/the-one-about-crafting-with-power-tools/">community</a> today.<br />
<br />
Steph xStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-18780697839957283162012-09-26T15:16:00.000+10:002012-09-26T18:13:18.742+10:00Starry, starry night<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7NFQT7CTjw/UE66SmKWplI/AAAAAAAADYw/77H-FCFqJ9g/s1600/P1110275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7NFQT7CTjw/UE66SmKWplI/AAAAAAAADYw/77H-FCFqJ9g/s640/P1110275.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mkH69mpDryQ/UE66aDHfJDI/AAAAAAAADY4/aWCprLItwC0/s1600/P1110273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mkH69mpDryQ/UE66aDHfJDI/AAAAAAAADY4/aWCprLItwC0/s640/P1110273.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pIAl3Cz4kIw/UE66hx9DJdI/AAAAAAAADZA/IFzlu1Xr6Lc/s1600/P1110283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pIAl3Cz4kIw/UE66hx9DJdI/AAAAAAAADZA/IFzlu1Xr6Lc/s640/P1110283.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zfJIrwIe0k/UE66m08TbbI/AAAAAAAADZI/7TRn7WOtPZk/s1600/P1110269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_zfJIrwIe0k/UE66m08TbbI/AAAAAAAADZI/7TRn7WOtPZk/s640/P1110269.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x7a73UWdCy4/UE66vuMJhxI/AAAAAAAADZQ/q5nzTqHvakQ/s1600/P1110276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x7a73UWdCy4/UE66vuMJhxI/AAAAAAAADZQ/q5nzTqHvakQ/s640/P1110276.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The cupboard above our fridge houses her creative tools. The shelves hold paints in rainbow hues, snips of paper, patty pans, feathers and shells. The Play School play dough recipe penned in teal in my familiar scrawl is taped to the door where it can be referred to often. Beside it, her first ever drawing of me.</div>
<br />
Stopping myself short today as I reached on tippie toes for something playful for my girl I pondered our views on children's art making. In our bid to make their world full of excitement and captivation there is always colour. But oh what wonders hide in the inky places of this universe.<br />
<br />
My hand reached for the vivid yellow paint and wavered. It then headed east toward the white. A contrasting black paper was inevitable. And silver. Metallic silver pigment , a shower of silver glitter and mirror like silver stars. <br />
<br />
White swirls erupted over the jet surface. Cumulonimbus clouds billowed high in the night sky. Would there be rain? Not this night. With a gentle breeze the luminous stars were unveiled. I closed my eyes and blew a wish to the heavens. May <em>you</em> shine my little one.<br />
<br />
Steph xStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-84494912958345400322012-09-24T15:18:00.000+10:002012-09-24T19:51:43.302+10:00Their Backyard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ukH2S7bxBzw/UF_l2Fm279I/AAAAAAAADqA/yM0kH34U1kA/s1600/221+(650x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ukH2S7bxBzw/UF_l2Fm279I/AAAAAAAADqA/yM0kH34U1kA/s1600/221+(650x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qmq814jSrww/UF_t12XPdoI/AAAAAAAADsM/zS0RlfTSNP8/s1600/245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qmq814jSrww/UF_t12XPdoI/AAAAAAAADsM/zS0RlfTSNP8/s640/245.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHoFt7Ft8Js/UF_l_ajjIZI/AAAAAAAADqQ/M9vH_G26M9c/s1600/175+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OHoFt7Ft8Js/UF_l_ajjIZI/AAAAAAAADqQ/M9vH_G26M9c/s1600/175+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuRSx1-Xn0Y/UF_mBjlog-I/AAAAAAAADqY/BKr0_VEZzeQ/s1600/216+(650x434).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuRSx1-Xn0Y/UF_mBjlog-I/AAAAAAAADqY/BKr0_VEZzeQ/s1600/216+(650x434).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOvT5leosUg/UF_mEClk8DI/AAAAAAAADqg/joEuMBvhlUI/s1600/178+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FOvT5leosUg/UF_mEClk8DI/AAAAAAAADqg/joEuMBvhlUI/s1600/178+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nt9DP6zSagI/UF_mQoSDEuI/AAAAAAAADqo/ncFKSDOH_Uk/s1600/201+(650x443).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nt9DP6zSagI/UF_mQoSDEuI/AAAAAAAADqo/ncFKSDOH_Uk/s1600/201+(650x443).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EmR9TI38Aao/UF_mTKdzINI/AAAAAAAADqw/O3w_jnfTxQM/s1600/232+(650x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EmR9TI38Aao/UF_mTKdzINI/AAAAAAAADqw/O3w_jnfTxQM/s1600/232+(650x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKZ9qsetPF8/UF_myQgNqEI/AAAAAAAADq4/MK0ONAlRG3s/s1600/240+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YKZ9qsetPF8/UF_myQgNqEI/AAAAAAAADq4/MK0ONAlRG3s/s1600/240+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nMqm7uEbTAE/UF_m1N-Q9KI/AAAAAAAADrA/7XfGp-OgGn0/s1600/253+(650x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nMqm7uEbTAE/UF_m1N-Q9KI/AAAAAAAADrA/7XfGp-OgGn0/s1600/253+(650x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PB9MagGMFT8/UF_m8vL8VKI/AAAAAAAADrI/Y7WPX4hHUn4/s1600/290+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PB9MagGMFT8/UF_m8vL8VKI/AAAAAAAADrI/Y7WPX4hHUn4/s1600/290+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Tucked away in a quiet surburban street is a haven for flora, for fauna...for us. On a block just like any other flanked by main roads, a nearby shopping centre, a local school, two souls have created a wild world. Vast trees reach their woody fingertips to the sunlight. Dense green undergrowth veils busy creatures. The air is cooler, cleaner there. <br />
<br />
One steamy afternoon many years ago my parents marked out an area at the back of our yard and began digging up the grass. Rainforest plants were lovingly homed in the idle soil and buckets of water were heaved backwards and forwards to nourish them. Many, many times. Over the years this natural land has flourished and it is a place my children and I adore.<br />
<br />
There are always cuttings paddling their toes in jars of water waiting patiently for whiskery roots to sprout from within. There are always animals (both the alive...and the not so lucky) to discover; to investigate. There is always tea.<br />
<br />
It is an ever evolving micro-organism breathed to life by heart and hand.<br />
<br />
It is a sanctuary.<br />
<br />
Steph x<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-8786877390832184622012-09-20T15:43:00.000+10:002012-09-24T19:52:04.924+10:00Tea Towel Top - D.I.Y.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc-gJeIeopQ/UFqsgSnWvJI/AAAAAAAADkw/GlzoprXT4HA/s1600/332+(650x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc-gJeIeopQ/UFqsgSnWvJI/AAAAAAAADkw/GlzoprXT4HA/s1600/332+(650x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
My girl is besotted with <a href="http://www.guidedogs.com.au/">guide dogs</a>. I spend my every car journey telling her stories about fictitious puppies and their Enid Blyton style adventures at guide dog school. So a serendipitous find of a vintage Guide Dogs for the Blind tea towel at the op shop begged to be transformed for my love.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-240NcAF14-M/UFqrNbOBydI/AAAAAAAADkI/I7nf3BlqUIU/s1600/207+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-240NcAF14-M/UFqrNbOBydI/AAAAAAAADkI/I7nf3BlqUIU/s1600/207+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
And because it was so easy I thought I'd share how I did it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XbVgmf9AyiQ/UFqrOxRufjI/AAAAAAAADkQ/EneAITEPDdc/s1600/220+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XbVgmf9AyiQ/UFqrOxRufjI/AAAAAAAADkQ/EneAITEPDdc/s1600/220+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Using a slightly A-line singlet as a pattern lay it on the tea towel where you want the print to feature.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZnWRQbg0JA/UFqrQGPwXSI/AAAAAAAADkY/JDwB4gK4OV0/s1600/211+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZnWRQbg0JA/UFqrQGPwXSI/AAAAAAAADkY/JDwB4gK4OV0/s1600/211+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Fold the top of the singlet over to to make the top of the chest.<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2UYJaCqtK4s/UFqvEKcK1eI/AAAAAAAADl4/JXJE4k1Ot1E/s1600/229+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2UYJaCqtK4s/UFqvEKcK1eI/AAAAAAAADl4/JXJE4k1Ot1E/s1600/229+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Cut across the top in line with the folded singlet and in line with the arm holes (these will be encased with bias binding later so don't allow a seam allowance) and then cut down the sides allowing a 1/4 inch seam allowance (I would have preferred her top to be a bit roomier as tea towels don't stretch but Madame Chanel had other ideas!) You could allow as much room either side as you like. Allow about 2 cms for a hem.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6l8fTO9NuYs/UFqvHNrzngI/AAAAAAAADmA/c2hh6rkxbo4/s1600/232+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6l8fTO9NuYs/UFqvHNrzngI/AAAAAAAADmA/c2hh6rkxbo4/s1600/232+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
With the first piece cut out, lay it over the remainder of the tea towel and cut the second piece (If your tea towel has a simple print you could cut both pieces out together).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UtKcNCpOWBw/UFq8zBXmdpI/AAAAAAAADpA/OcE4oDj-Oqo/s1600/261+(650x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UtKcNCpOWBw/UFq8zBXmdpI/AAAAAAAADpA/OcE4oDj-Oqo/s640/261+(650x975).jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
With right sides together, join the two sides. I used the overlocker but you could stitch it on the sewing machine and finish the seam off with a zig zag stitch to stop it fraying.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWWZySdnYYo/UFqvW1uCprI/AAAAAAAADmY/P3_UNxJxFmo/s1600/264+%2528650x433%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SWWZySdnYYo/UFqvW1uCprI/AAAAAAAADmY/P3_UNxJxFmo/s1600/264+%2528650x433%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Fold over about 1/4 inch on the hem and press. Fold over about a 1 and 1/2 cms and pin. Stitch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_NKC3NAQFGg/UFqvTS77J_I/AAAAAAAADmQ/P_1UQyc-zLQ/s1600/262+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_NKC3NAQFGg/UFqvTS77J_I/AAAAAAAADmQ/P_1UQyc-zLQ/s1600/262+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Using shop bought bias binding, encase the top raw edges. Stitch these in place.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xANLCghSiF4/UFqva82Kf6I/AAAAAAAADmg/0B15NZJ4hRs/s1600/267+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xANLCghSiF4/UFqva82Kf6I/AAAAAAAADmg/0B15NZJ4hRs/s1600/267+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Cut two pieces of bias binding about 90cm long. These will form the straps. Fold these in half to find the mid point.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-in_Nrp2ehY8/UFqvcnMpnNI/AAAAAAAADmo/INjilmbElNA/s1600/268+(650x433).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-in_Nrp2ehY8/UFqvcnMpnNI/AAAAAAAADmo/INjilmbElNA/s1600/268+(650x433).jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Match this mid point to the underarm seam and encase the raw edge of the arm hole with the bias binding.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Khzunh1PevY/UFqwAkCo_pI/AAAAAAAADm0/1khll01cM1s/s1600/281+(714x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Khzunh1PevY/UFqwAkCo_pI/AAAAAAAADm0/1khll01cM1s/s1600/281+(714x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Continue pinning the bias together to form the straps, overlapping the ends and tucking them in to make a neat finish. Stitch.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SHqDwVQrr4/UFqw819pW8I/AAAAAAAADnA/FrcpHcOJ2SI/s1600/309+(650x975).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6SHqDwVQrr4/UFqw819pW8I/AAAAAAAADnA/FrcpHcOJ2SI/s1600/309+(650x975).jpg" /></a></div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
She thinks she's the bees knees in it! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Joining in with these <a href="http://blogs.kidspot.com.au/villagevoices/custom-carpet-and-accidental-neon-craft/">lovelies</a> today.<br />
<br />
And for a chance to win a gorgeous Sakura Bloom Sling pop over to this <a href="http://www.cheandfidel.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/sakura-bloom-silk-and-linen-giveaway.html">gorgeous soul</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a></div>
Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-39411464262649264572012-09-18T14:14:00.001+10:002012-09-18T14:32:00.442+10:00Birdie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zqb7Y8jgXO8/UFamXxYmeXI/AAAAAAAADeM/RUWtcF5sjkU/s1600/P1120059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zqb7Y8jgXO8/UFamXxYmeXI/AAAAAAAADeM/RUWtcF5sjkU/s640/P1120059.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GUnPpOeprzo/UFamjvPy86I/AAAAAAAADeU/9MFXn7yo3d8/s1600/P1120052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GUnPpOeprzo/UFamjvPy86I/AAAAAAAADeU/9MFXn7yo3d8/s640/P1120052.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsCYn4mSFOE/UFamqUomGKI/AAAAAAAADec/qe6FitM3xe4/s1600/P1120057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsCYn4mSFOE/UFamqUomGKI/AAAAAAAADec/qe6FitM3xe4/s640/P1120057.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u4ZLXPPGwWM/UFamxPz35KI/AAAAAAAADek/_5rOtA5IDwM/s1600/P1120056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u4ZLXPPGwWM/UFamxPz35KI/AAAAAAAADek/_5rOtA5IDwM/s640/P1120056.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njAx9FQo-S4/UFam3qv-5DI/AAAAAAAADes/FxkE-KQ6Z1w/s1600/P1120060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njAx9FQo-S4/UFam3qv-5DI/AAAAAAAADes/FxkE-KQ6Z1w/s640/P1120060.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ah Birdie! She is <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/01/me-own-serf.html">finally finished</a> and oh boy, I crawled over the finish line with her. There is something strange and altogether unsettling that happens to a maker of things when they realise that they can <em>indeed </em>make most things...or at least have a decent crack at it. We have to <em>make</em> it all.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Over the last few months I have become shadowed by a looming mountain of projects. I began writing "to do" craft lists each day in order to slowly sift through the chaos that was my craft cupboard and filed these beside day to day errands, shopping and house work. These had the pungent odour of "chore" about them and the joy that I once gleaned from creating with my hands had all but dried up. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The completion of Birdie (named after a favourite story) however, was the catalyst for change. Yes she was an incredible achievement; something I'd always wanted to make. And yes, she is much loved by Bijou. But the time, the effort, the perseverance I poured into her didn't reap the pride and satisfaction I expected. Quite the opposite. The tediousness that was the last few hours of her creation left a bitter taste in my mouth. I felt a fool! I have let my ideals about handmade become a dogma I know longer wish to prescribe to. What is the sense in "handmaking" my world when it snuffs out the spark of creativity? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> I make every gift we give. I make all those <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/02/why-you-should-read-instructions.html">things</a> that make our household tick along. I make my children's clothes (well, alot of them). Lately, I've made an awful lot of work for myself. Creating runs through my veins and the "<a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/his-cot.html">mend and make do</a>" philosophy is an ideal we are passionate about so yes, I will continue to do alot of these things. But only those that <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2011/01/my-creative-space.html">resonate with meaning</a>. Passed onto <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/clothtopus.html">kindred spirits</a> who hold dear the value of handmade. Things that <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/picnic-rug.html">enrich our lives</a>.... things that nourish my soul. I can not nor <em>will</em> not do it all. The winds of change are blowing my friends. And my they smell sweet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div> <img align="left" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-50541082446009479832012-09-13T14:06:00.005+10:002012-09-13T20:35:43.418+10:00Her Space<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7VicMzcXVCQ/UFEdUPmNeuI/AAAAAAAADas/QDc-hr0ybRQ/s1600/P1110371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7VicMzcXVCQ/UFEdUPmNeuI/AAAAAAAADas/QDc-hr0ybRQ/s640/P1110371.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LEn0EEOTw0Q/UFEdaiZ4qHI/AAAAAAAADa0/xKU_EUj_uVg/s1600/P1110379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LEn0EEOTw0Q/UFEdaiZ4qHI/AAAAAAAADa0/xKU_EUj_uVg/s640/P1110379.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_02bhYdiaLE/UFEdjH4ApEI/AAAAAAAADa8/pkoDFtrJmfc/s1600/P1110362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_02bhYdiaLE/UFEdjH4ApEI/AAAAAAAADa8/pkoDFtrJmfc/s640/P1110362.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uw32zv-JL-U/UFEdqycSgoI/AAAAAAAADbE/pInr0TaablQ/s1600/P1110356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uw32zv-JL-U/UFEdqycSgoI/AAAAAAAADbE/pInr0TaablQ/s640/P1110356.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sw-6DjtIk70/UFEdyjLrR9I/AAAAAAAADbM/cKHNTW8LlfY/s1600/P1110355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sw-6DjtIk70/UFEdyjLrR9I/AAAAAAAADbM/cKHNTW8LlfY/s640/P1110355.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xtnp6NqPc7w/UFEd6JmqwcI/AAAAAAAADbU/QP77aOT10jI/s1600/P1110361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xtnp6NqPc7w/UFEd6JmqwcI/AAAAAAAADbU/QP77aOT10jI/s640/P1110361.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v29GuSJRev8/UFEeAiinSnI/AAAAAAAADbc/riW3eiam21Y/s1600/P1110363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v29GuSJRev8/UFEeAiinSnI/AAAAAAAADbc/riW3eiam21Y/s640/P1110363.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<span style="color: #444444;">You come to expect...to look for the milestones. The first smile, standing by themselves and walking are all eagerly anticipated and celebrated steps in the journey of life. It's the subtle changes that herald a baby becoming a child that sneak up on you and catch you unawares. The ones that leave hot tears pricking your eyes at the thought of time and how quickly it travels.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;">Butter soft baby heels hardening ever so slightly as feet go from wee little socks to shoes, from dangling about your waist to running on grass. That tiny hand that has grasped your hair, your breast, your own hand now often pulls away when the wonder of this great world lures it from your hold. The yearning for their own space. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/08/her-work.html"><span style="color: #444444;">Somewhere</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> to throw themselves headfirst into their imagination and bathe in the intangible yet altogether magical creativity that emerges. A space to digest all that their sponge like brains have soaked up in a day. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;">To wander in and out of stories. To be alone with their thoughts; alone in their world. </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;">I try to give her such space. I endeavour to create little nooks in our home just for her and her musings to let her imagine, ponder and grow. With immense pride I watch her unfurl in this world. But oh my heart....</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;">Joining in over </span><a href="http://blogs.kidspot.com.au/villagevoices/crafting-to-a-deadline/"><span style="color: #444444;">here</span></a><span style="color: #444444;"> this fine day.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;">Bijou's beanbag made from vintage fabric using a pattern from </span><a href="http://www.fishpond.com.au/product_info.php?ref=1031&id=9781741966725&affiliate_banner_id=1"><span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;">here</span></a><span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;">. (Obligatory cursing as beans were deposited into said beanbag!) Op shopped basket and dear, sweet Golden Books.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-65918420855485971342012-09-10T15:12:00.002+10:002012-09-10T20:06:22.093+10:00Clothtopus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bbp1P6Q2r-Q/UEyDWqS6XJI/AAAAAAAADXQ/GFq9CD7B1mc/s1600/P1110018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bbp1P6Q2r-Q/UEyDWqS6XJI/AAAAAAAADXQ/GFq9CD7B1mc/s640/P1110018.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXLPDXWxWe4/UEyDOlzCXSI/AAAAAAAADXI/kprxIcbRXlk/s1600/P1110017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GXLPDXWxWe4/UEyDOlzCXSI/AAAAAAAADXI/kprxIcbRXlk/s640/P1110017.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2CcN2UeKtkk/UEyDe-IvwxI/AAAAAAAADXY/DEzOANIrqWw/s1600/P1110019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2CcN2UeKtkk/UEyDe-IvwxI/AAAAAAAADXY/DEzOANIrqWw/s640/P1110019.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nu8mNron6Hk/UEyDmlpXCdI/AAAAAAAADXg/stRER3ztMwM/s1600/P1110020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nu8mNron6Hk/UEyDmlpXCdI/AAAAAAAADXg/stRER3ztMwM/s640/P1110020.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9OInu38K48/UEyDuxeOaTI/AAAAAAAADXo/xE4a9kZoctU/s1600/P1110021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9OInu38K48/UEyDuxeOaTI/AAAAAAAADXo/xE4a9kZoctU/s640/P1110021.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ipK7abwc6Y/UEyD3_6JaxI/AAAAAAAADXw/JgtrgTEkj7I/s1600/P1110023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ipK7abwc6Y/UEyD3_6JaxI/AAAAAAAADXw/JgtrgTEkj7I/s640/P1110023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eS02YbiEdXw/UEyD_HdaUBI/AAAAAAAADX4/PkxTkgd6eMI/s1600/P1110024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eS02YbiEdXw/UEyD_HdaUBI/AAAAAAAADX4/PkxTkgd6eMI/s640/P1110024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'd like to be under the sea</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In an octopus's garden in the shade</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">He'd let us in, knows where we've been</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In his octopus's garden in the shade</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'd ask my friends to come and see</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In an octopus's garden with me</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'd like to be under the sea</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In an octopus's garden in the shade</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We would be warm below the storm</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In our little hideaway beneath the waves</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Resting our head on the sea bed</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In an octopus's garden near a cave</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We would sing and dance around</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">because we know we can't be found</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'd like to be under the sea</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In an octopus's garden in the shade</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We would shout and swim about</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The coral that lies beneath the waves</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oh what joy for every girl and boy</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Knowing they're happy and they're safe</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We would be so happy you and me</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">No one there to tell us what to do</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'd like to be under the sea</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In an octopus's garden with you</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">in an octopus's garden with you</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">in an octopus's garden with you</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ringo Starr</span><br />
<br />
This song is pure joy! An innocent melody I have sung to my babes for as long as they've been here. My mind paints a whimsical picture every time I sing the words and I just wanted you to sing it for yourself. It'll make you smile.<br />
<br />
Muted blues and dirty greens. Linen and cotton, new and old. Such a simple play mate for a little sea loving friend. And a bright, bright orange grin. Love.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mr. Clothtopus pattern from </span><a href="http://www.penguin.com.au/products/9780670075300/hop-skip-jump"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">here</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">. (I want to make one of everything out this quirky book) </span><br />
<br />
P.S. You simply must go and have a look at the awesome giveaway over at beautiful <a href="http://www.cheandfidel.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/spring-giveaway-to-celebrate-season.html">Che and Fidel</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-58492653718511389802012-09-03T20:27:00.000+10:002012-09-03T20:27:48.204+10:00Rainbows<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t8-IwpkHRWI/UCDrJZsIyEI/AAAAAAAADJ4/Ztcnssu9jq8/s1600/P1110560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t8-IwpkHRWI/UCDrJZsIyEI/AAAAAAAADJ4/Ztcnssu9jq8/s640/P1110560.JPG" width="564" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NLuKzpouvzE/UCDsFGWz98I/AAAAAAAADKA/JPlWb4tOuy0/s1600/P1110579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NLuKzpouvzE/UCDsFGWz98I/AAAAAAAADKA/JPlWb4tOuy0/s640/P1110579.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SM7LcORrCkc/UCDs1k39w7I/AAAAAAAADKI/ERVwvTMdaJU/s1600/P1110484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SM7LcORrCkc/UCDs1k39w7I/AAAAAAAADKI/ERVwvTMdaJU/s640/P1110484.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdiu38p1-ts/UCDxAIyp-fI/AAAAAAAADK4/g1pQDS6e0Us/s1600/P1100266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qdiu38p1-ts/UCDxAIyp-fI/AAAAAAAADK4/g1pQDS6e0Us/s640/P1100266.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0kWoAm2BCFk/UCDxJueO3VI/AAAAAAAADLA/TrNLwxRHbD4/s1600/P1100688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0kWoAm2BCFk/UCDxJueO3VI/AAAAAAAADLA/TrNLwxRHbD4/s640/P1100688.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg7bVMGc1tY/UCDxRDBDHcI/AAAAAAAADLI/eK-4uQ622BQ/s1600/P1100718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dg7bVMGc1tY/UCDxRDBDHcI/AAAAAAAADLI/eK-4uQ622BQ/s640/P1100718.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AScLJM3dWc/UCDxZBpbtrI/AAAAAAAADLQ/elI1RZqsq2o/s1600/P1100716.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5AScLJM3dWc/UCDxZBpbtrI/AAAAAAAADLQ/elI1RZqsq2o/s640/P1100716.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8iCj78xk21I/UCDxgpCtQwI/AAAAAAAADLY/EA0Xk51r52Q/s1600/P1100691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8iCj78xk21I/UCDxgpCtQwI/AAAAAAAADLY/EA0Xk51r52Q/s640/P1100691.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j6ko3y0yDbc/UCDxn-NBkUI/AAAAAAAADLg/f8Tb1OyjISU/s1600/P1100757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j6ko3y0yDbc/UCDxn-NBkUI/AAAAAAAADLg/f8Tb1OyjISU/s640/P1100757.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0lAqSbnO98/UCDxvMFh7sI/AAAAAAAADLo/7bGZD1mwyOo/s1600/P1100769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0lAqSbnO98/UCDxvMFh7sI/AAAAAAAADLo/7bGZD1mwyOo/s640/P1100769.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In an attempt to sweep away the Winter lurgies that simply will not leave our house I've been looking for rainbows. A spectrum of vivid hues to make me smile. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">How is it that with the turn of the season the light changes? Morning sunshine is all the more crisp and prisms of colour shine through window panes while I sip my first cup of tea for the day. I cast my eyes around this space; our home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Blocks and beads, crayons, knitted play things. Primary tints brightening our everyday. So grateful for the abundance in our world. So grateful for all the colour.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><img align="left" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" />Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-35153792951921074702012-08-30T16:28:00.001+10:002012-08-30T16:30:57.881+10:00His Cot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k1QXJPbs5cM/UD7jFzLjDuI/AAAAAAAADVQ/yv3uMP2ZHgk/s1600/P1120107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k1QXJPbs5cM/UD7jFzLjDuI/AAAAAAAADVQ/yv3uMP2ZHgk/s640/P1120107.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eGmPMUI_oY8/UD7jN-D_GwI/AAAAAAAADVY/BSm5peDJCT0/s1600/P1120108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eGmPMUI_oY8/UD7jN-D_GwI/AAAAAAAADVY/BSm5peDJCT0/s640/P1120108.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GElNsqEZCc/UD7jwazUJbI/AAAAAAAADVw/odlzlYliQa8/s1600/P1120111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GElNsqEZCc/UD7jwazUJbI/AAAAAAAADVw/odlzlYliQa8/s640/P1120111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8H7pS7oF9rU/UD7kJr9Sm6I/AAAAAAAADWI/XII63vUTuNo/s1600/P1120114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8H7pS7oF9rU/UD7kJr9Sm6I/AAAAAAAADWI/XII63vUTuNo/s640/P1120114.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rx7Oj1uLxCc/UD7kAwybkVI/AAAAAAAADWA/JNQi2j0Lk50/s1600/P1120113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rx7Oj1uLxCc/UD7kAwybkVI/AAAAAAAADWA/JNQi2j0Lk50/s640/P1120113.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
It has been a subtle shift yet one that has taken over the way we live. In what seems like a past life my beloved and I were spenders. Yes there was the obligatory "save for our house" fund that always consumed the majority of our pays. But the rest, the fun money, soon filled the pockets of others as we drank coffee, bought shoes, dined on the water's edge, saw the world.<br />
<br />
Caught in a consumerist trap we nodded our heads in agreement to advertisements spruiking the latest must have. We purchased with greed and the thrill of the hunt was not in the quality of the things we bought but the amount that could be stuffed into bulging plastic bags. Throw away fashion and the like. <br />
<br />
With the incredible blessings of our little people came a drop in wage. My wage. And with this a tightening of purse strings. Treading water in this new world of think before we spend I did what I do best, I threw myself in boots and all. I've sewed, I've knitted, I've read books about how to squeeze every last drop out of our weekly groceries, we've planted vegetables, I've op-shopped, we've gone without. <br />
<br />
But is there a feeling of wanting? Well actually no. I feel an incredible sense of pride as I cast my gaze around our home and struggle to find one room, one corner, that hasn't been touched by my hands. Everywhere there are reminders that making do not only solves the immediate problem at hand but also enriches our space...our world. And our purchases? We now favour a less is more philosophy and only part with our hard earned dollars for things of quality, often artisan or handmade. <br />
<br />
When she was a wee one my baby girl chewed her cot good and proper as she teethed leaving a rather grizzly sight of gnawed timber and white paint flecked teeth. At the time we bought the latest and greatest plastic snap on device that Bijou managed to remove faster than we could attach it. Her chomping phase soon passed and with it the plastic teether..quite likely in the bin. <br />
<br />
Fast forward a few years and the little man now slumbers in this cot. Faced with the task of not only hiding these unsightly marks but more importantly, protecting his emerging teeth I didn't head to the nearest baby store but opened my sewing cupboard and hunted about. A vintage cot sheet, a strip of leftover cotton quilt wadding and an hour or two of measuring, pinning and sewing and I had a lovely little solution. Just some fabric. some time and my two hands.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">In the background is Remy's most adored Bruno handmade by the gorgeous girls of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/quillandinkhandmade?ref=seller_info">Quill and Ink Handmade</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-3636882032264424702012-08-28T16:51:00.000+10:002012-08-28T16:51:19.178+10:00Milo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tnFv-hXGmE/UCDqPxhZm9I/AAAAAAAADJY/8yF-v6BN-9g/s1600/P1110905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4tnFv-hXGmE/UCDqPxhZm9I/AAAAAAAADJY/8yF-v6BN-9g/s640/P1110905.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCyqiO0mNtA/UCDq3ROQpuI/AAAAAAAADJw/0tAq0FOEINY/s1600/P1110906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SCyqiO0mNtA/UCDq3ROQpuI/AAAAAAAADJw/0tAq0FOEINY/s640/P1110906.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pmHYeTqc3Mo/UCDqXhHbPdI/AAAAAAAADJg/XHWNFaQ8ZFY/s1600/P1110919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pmHYeTqc3Mo/UCDqXhHbPdI/AAAAAAAADJg/XHWNFaQ8ZFY/s640/P1110919.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q24Ir6QGWME/UCDqfu8YYmI/AAAAAAAADJo/6YZ8GWRdZfA/s1600/P1110926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q24Ir6QGWME/UCDqfu8YYmI/AAAAAAAADJo/6YZ8GWRdZfA/s640/P1110926.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
The weather has turned here and the sun strips our outer layers of clothing off quickly now. Thick hoodies and Mumma knitted <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/06/little-sophisticate.html">cardigans</a> have been washed and packed away with smiles and sighs and dreams. But this one, it stays in his cupboard. He has only worn it a handful of times and each time I swoon. I know that with each passing day his tummy will swell and grow too big for it. My boy.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Knit with as soft as down baby alpaca yarn and every ounce of love for him. Remy's Milo vest Ravelled <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/monpetitpoppet/milo">here</a>.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-24322880933666241012012-08-23T15:00:00.000+10:002012-08-23T15:00:42.958+10:00Play Silks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRficVbx_O0/UDV9HT7ccdI/AAAAAAAADTA/Vq1O493TBPs/s1600/P1110421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRficVbx_O0/UDV9HT7ccdI/AAAAAAAADTA/Vq1O493TBPs/s640/P1110421.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y4EgYDLmPg/UDV9TPC_DiI/AAAAAAAADTI/JiIPaAE-OsY/s1600/P1110422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y4EgYDLmPg/UDV9TPC_DiI/AAAAAAAADTI/JiIPaAE-OsY/s640/P1110422.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUBmLOyVUk0/UDV9aRAsuoI/AAAAAAAADTQ/Dh3nrHTsMkM/s1600/P1110423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rUBmLOyVUk0/UDV9aRAsuoI/AAAAAAAADTQ/Dh3nrHTsMkM/s640/P1110423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b3SN_TDOjQw/UDV9ieygc3I/AAAAAAAADTY/Hl__t7pXPW8/s1600/P1110424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b3SN_TDOjQw/UDV9ieygc3I/AAAAAAAADTY/Hl__t7pXPW8/s640/P1110424.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v4lmgMaN8sE/UDV9rnWs0AI/AAAAAAAADTg/1nhbaZvdpWA/s1600/P1110426.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v4lmgMaN8sE/UDV9rnWs0AI/AAAAAAAADTg/1nhbaZvdpWA/s640/P1110426.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EnP_DEyKyV0/UDV96f5wA4I/AAAAAAAADTw/dFTW5IitR9Q/s1600/P1110429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EnP_DEyKyV0/UDV96f5wA4I/AAAAAAAADTw/dFTW5IitR9Q/s640/P1110429.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zahEcUGG3hQ/UDV-B_GgFNI/AAAAAAAADT4/3CO11jApI80/s1600/P1110430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="530" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zahEcUGG3hQ/UDV-B_GgFNI/AAAAAAAADT4/3CO11jApI80/s640/P1110430.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bglI6EdMayg/UDV-K-mAbSI/AAAAAAAADUA/-oLKlUppHLg/s1600/P1110434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bglI6EdMayg/UDV-K-mAbSI/AAAAAAAADUA/-oLKlUppHLg/s640/P1110434.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SrEwZfvJnVY/UDV-SteRPAI/AAAAAAAADUI/rVn11QXCudM/s1600/P1110437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SrEwZfvJnVY/UDV-SteRPAI/AAAAAAAADUI/rVn11QXCudM/s640/P1110437.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9TEEDKlCac/UDV-aSbv_MI/AAAAAAAADUQ/qnePC3PAxYw/s1600/P1110459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9TEEDKlCac/UDV-aSbv_MI/AAAAAAAADUQ/qnePC3PAxYw/s640/P1110459.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Swathed in rainbow coloured silk she flits about the backyard. The morning sun highlights the copper in her hair. She is a butterfly, a bat, a bird. With pegs and a length of rope she has created a cave. A green dragon's tail hangs behind her. I watch her lips move in hushed conversation as she immerses deeper into her magic world.<br />
<br />
Box loads of plastic have been bundled up and passed on to those less fortunate. In their place a humble basket of play silks. A treasure chest spilling over with stories to be told, scenes to be set, gowns to be worn. She returns to them time and time again and each day she views them with fresh eyes. Imagination is glorious.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Habotai silk scarves from <a href="http://www.silksational.com.au/pages/About-us-and-contact-details.html">here</a> and dyed using this <a href="http://www.make-baby-stuff.com/play-silks.html">tutorial</a>. Such fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><img align="left" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /><span id="goog_750553480"></span><span id="goog_750553481"></span> Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-49047691167788636192012-08-22T15:07:00.002+10:002012-08-23T19:47:56.081+10:00Family Favourites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nTdaSMQsUNA/UDQQeIAUZtI/AAAAAAAADR0/AZ_z6mD15sU/s1600/P1100677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nTdaSMQsUNA/UDQQeIAUZtI/AAAAAAAADR0/AZ_z6mD15sU/s640/P1100677.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krIkKTPWwhQ/UDQQm4JXTKI/AAAAAAAADR8/ZTieCd1JLn4/s1600/P1100679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-krIkKTPWwhQ/UDQQm4JXTKI/AAAAAAAADR8/ZTieCd1JLn4/s640/P1100679.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQ6ZZYB-K9Q/UDQQuK8hdoI/AAAAAAAADSE/9XT-B1cijCs/s1600/P1100685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQ6ZZYB-K9Q/UDQQuK8hdoI/AAAAAAAADSE/9XT-B1cijCs/s640/P1100685.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PYRh3cNX9jw/UDQQyEO7GsI/AAAAAAAADSM/vgo9PDIlRg8/s1600/P1100686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PYRh3cNX9jw/UDQQyEO7GsI/AAAAAAAADSM/vgo9PDIlRg8/s640/P1100686.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> <br />
Family Favourites. Ours is spaghetti and meatballs. For as long as I can remember the meal made for special occasions was, and still is, spaghetti and meatballs. A recipe that was found on the side of a Rosella soup tin many years ago. It was sticky taped into Mum's recipe journal and has two faded words across the top in her lovely swirly writing. Very Good. The sticky tape has long lost it's stick and yellowed the pages beneath it. The sentiment is the same.<br />
<br />
The ricey meatballs so hot they have to be sliced open to cool unveiling the hidden treasure of a cube of cheese inside. The sauce; a blend of tomato soup, red wine and Masterfoods Italian Herbs. Sitting atop angel hair pasta and sprinkled with a snowfall of Parmesan this meal has connected my family time and time again.<br />
<br />
A dear friend of ours waxes lyrical about his family favourite; cheerio casserole. His Mum dishing out helpings of this to her 4 boys no doubt in an effort to not only fill their cavernous pits of stomachs but also to lighten the budget's load. And it is in his honour that I write this post. <br />
<br />
This remarkable father of three beautiful little girls is embarking on a journey of such self sacrifice and kindness pushing his endurance and strength to the highest level. Along with 49 other brilliant souls he is riding the 1600km from Brisbane to Townsville in only 8 days to raise money for cancer research. My eyes well at the amazing human spirit. <br />
<br />
Please visit <a href="http://www.smiddyfundraising.com.au/stephen_potts_7">his blog</a> and donate even a few dollars to the <a href="http://www.smiddy.org.au/">2012 Bottlesmart Smiddy Challenge</a> to help answer questions, ease pain and hopefully find a cure to such a devastating and cruel disease.<br />
<br />
And for those who want to make all their children's Christmases come at once....the recipe for cheerio casserole. Hats off to you lovely Steve! A champion you most certainly are.<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cheerio Casserole</span></u><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Butter or margarine</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">2 onions, chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">4 tomatoes, skinned and chopped</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">salt and pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1 teaspoon curry powder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup chopped capsicum, celery, peas or beans</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">2 cups beef stock</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup uncooked rice or noodles</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1 dozen cheerios cut in half lengthwise</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup grated tasty cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1/4 cup breadcrumbs</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Melt butter and fry onion. Add tomatoes , seasonings and capsicum (or peas, beans etc.) and cook gently until ingredients blend into a thick soft mixture. Add stock. When boiling add rice or noodles and simmer for 15 minutes stirring occasionally uncovered. Remove from heat and add cheerios. Turn into a greased oven proof dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs mixed. Put in the oven for 30 minutes.</span><br />
<br />
What's your family favourite? I'd love to hear. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-71604663950049224592012-08-20T14:58:00.001+10:002012-08-20T14:58:54.434+10:00New Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x0XQwSGc2j4/UDG6y6puqeI/AAAAAAAADQg/9EVdliH5PgI/s1600/P1090825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x0XQwSGc2j4/UDG6y6puqeI/AAAAAAAADQg/9EVdliH5PgI/s640/P1090825.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7C4sqrkQro/UDG6qS-JLtI/AAAAAAAADQY/XcY73EBqXIg/s1600/P1090826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u7C4sqrkQro/UDG6qS-JLtI/AAAAAAAADQY/XcY73EBqXIg/s640/P1090826.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CtB_ja0tpvM/UDG7CQtkQgI/AAAAAAAADQw/EsAYZh0W1Hk/s1600/P1090829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CtB_ja0tpvM/UDG7CQtkQgI/AAAAAAAADQw/EsAYZh0W1Hk/s640/P1090829.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RIJV7B6a9Lg/UDG66p09W0I/AAAAAAAADQo/AOupVsac7U0/s1600/P1090828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RIJV7B6a9Lg/UDG66p09W0I/AAAAAAAADQo/AOupVsac7U0/s640/P1090828.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1y_gRwctR_s/UDG7KfT165I/AAAAAAAADQ4/OQPKo5jFMAI/s1600/P1090830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1y_gRwctR_s/UDG7KfT165I/AAAAAAAADQ4/OQPKo5jFMAI/s640/P1090830.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4_xdmlLNts/UDG7TQcCofI/AAAAAAAADRA/ErAnDPXxL_4/s1600/P1090831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4_xdmlLNts/UDG7TQcCofI/AAAAAAAADRA/ErAnDPXxL_4/s640/P1090831.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Today our feet tread on grass for the first time in ages. We cast open all the windows and doors and beckoned Spring in. The morning sun's sting whispers that she's nearly here. It's time to think about the vegetable garden and dust off forgotten plans and dreams for it. Ideas that seem wasted in the dark of Winter with too much rain and not enough sun now start percolating. They start to grow.<br />
<br />
Some soil, some egg shells and some <a href="http://monpetitpoppet.blogspot.com.au/2012/07/seeds.html">seeds</a>. Fingers pressing new life ever so carefully into its new nutrient rich home. Last year she cracked most of the shells with her chubby toddler fingers but now her dexterity makes my heart flutter. I can see my baby girl is growing too.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8736976173365758747.post-90401682048046203512012-08-17T14:53:00.000+10:002012-08-17T14:53:06.612+10:00Berets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3wom-ARN9F0/UCDomvv5fGI/AAAAAAAADIg/_dwN0pJa5VQ/s1600/P1110942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3wom-ARN9F0/UCDomvv5fGI/AAAAAAAADIg/_dwN0pJa5VQ/s640/P1110942.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9BZxj_WakA/UCDorAJ0QDI/AAAAAAAADIo/O1XvKToj4yU/s1600/P1110943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D9BZxj_WakA/UCDorAJ0QDI/AAAAAAAADIo/O1XvKToj4yU/s640/P1110943.JPG" width="570" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IBx3WZcRq5Y/UCDo1U2w1qI/AAAAAAAADIw/7IxFzq6yIcs/s1600/P1110944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IBx3WZcRq5Y/UCDo1U2w1qI/AAAAAAAADIw/7IxFzq6yIcs/s640/P1110944.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-peTgW7eztNo/UCDo-VJp18I/AAAAAAAADI4/XDiqoWFgdFk/s1600/P1110952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-peTgW7eztNo/UCDo-VJp18I/AAAAAAAADI4/XDiqoWFgdFk/s640/P1110952.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjr4_zLRuSY/UCDpLSOdovI/AAAAAAAADJI/Y3oRyjQ6W3c/s1600/P1110930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bjr4_zLRuSY/UCDpLSOdovI/AAAAAAAADJI/Y3oRyjQ6W3c/s640/P1110930.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAS1XkOHZ7E/UCDpSNNVvBI/AAAAAAAADJQ/GSEzQnJfY7Q/s1600/P1110937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAS1XkOHZ7E/UCDpSNNVvBI/AAAAAAAADJQ/GSEzQnJfY7Q/s640/P1110937.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
With lolly pink wool, wonky aluminium needles and a good dose of concentration tongue poking I embarked on my knitting journey. Mum at my side no doubt trying desperately to control the urge to snatch the needles from my grasp and do it for me. She never, ever did. <br />
<br />
Over and over she watched me slowly wrap the yarn and slip each loopy stitch off the needle. She unravelled countless Houdini knots and tangles. She soothed my impatience and gently steered me toward projects far more suited to my blossoming ability than that stripey blazer in the latest issue of Dolly magazine. All the while she knit.<br />
<br />
She knit jumpers for my tiny adolescent frame when all those around swum on me. Special trips to the local haberdashery were made to peruse the wall of buttons and carefully select just the right ones from their little cylinder. Tortoiseshell, wood and pearl.<br />
<br />
And still I while away many moments wrapping yarn and slipping stitches off the needle. Still the journey continues albeit much faster these days. Such pleasure it gives me to make fabric with my hands. Fabric that warms my neck, my toes...my poppet's heads. <br />
<br />
A million thank-yous Mum for sharing your knowledge in your ever serene and gentle way. <br />
<br />
Berets for my loves ravelled <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/monpetitpoppet/pompon-beret-2">here</a> and <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/monpetitpoppet/pompon-beret">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img align="left" border="0" src="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo310/shabbycreations2/StephatMonPetit.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01077790096029386818noreply@blogger.com6